Smuggling networks exploit Nepal’s open border to flood markets with untaxed goods
Summary
Smugglers are using Nepal’s open border with India to move untaxed goods ranging from vegetables and sugar to clothing, mobile phones, medicines and narcotics. Security forces say small consignments carried by women, children and laborers are harder to stop than truckloads, creating losses for customs revenue and unfair competition for legitimate traders.
Key Points
- Smuggling networks are exploiting Nepal’s border with India to move a wide range of untaxed goods into the country.
- Security officials say small consignments carried by individuals are harder to intercept than large truck shipments and often evade responsibility.
- Seizures in several districts have included fertiliser, clothing, mobile phone parts, medicines, poultry, jewellery and narcotics.
- Business leaders say the illicit trade is hurting revenue and legitimate commerce, while officials call for tighter enforcement and lower customs duties.
