Dashain shoppers face up to 50% price hikes as China trade routes remain disrupted
Summary
Dashain shoppers in Kathmandu are facing price hikes of up to 50 percent as disrupted northern trade routes from China create shortages of clothing, vehicles and daily essentials. Traders say rerouted shipments and blocked crossings have sharply raised transport costs and hurt festive supply chains.
Key Points
- Major markets in Kathmandu remain unusually quiet as disruptions on three China trade routes choke imports and push prices up ahead of Dashain.
- The Rasuwagadhi, Tatopani-Khasa and Korala crossings have all been affected by floods, landslides and road damage, leaving goods stranded in Mustang and elsewhere.
- Traders say transport costs have surged from Rs 75,000 to as much as Rs 500,000 per truck after rerouting shipments, forcing retail prices higher.
- Prices of food items and essentials have risen 25 to 50 percent, while consumers and automobile dealers face shortages during the festive season.
