Nepal’s Growing Outflow of Foreign Currency
Summary
Nepalis spent Rs 209 billion on international education and travel in a single year, adding pressure to the country’s foreign currency reserves. The piece warns that rising overseas spending and student outflow could weaken Nepal’s economic cushion even as remittances remain strong.
Key Points
- Nepalis spent Rs 141 billion on international education and Rs 67.18 billion on overseas travel in fiscal year 2025/26.
- Over six years, 548,717 Nepalis obtained No Objection Certificates to study in 83 countries, spending Rs 556.68 billion abroad on education.
- Remittances rose 37.1 percent to Rs 2.363 trillion, but the article warns Nepal cannot rely on this cushion indefinitely.
- The article argues Nepal should improve universities, domestic tourism and the business climate to keep more spending and talent at home.
