Government puts an end to ban of phone import and luxury goods

The Government of Nepal has put an end to the long-existed ban on phone imports (above $300) and other goods. The move eases the import of phones, cars, beverages, snacks, and other items deemed “luxurious”.

The ban controversially included a ban on phones costing $300 and above including other types of items.  

The government says that the lifting of the ban on imports will come into effect on December 16. The meeting of the Council of Ministers on Tuesday, December 6 made the decision to tend the import ban after 9 months.

The import ban has been in place since April 26 as a desperate measure to stop the currency outflow. The government later extended the ban till December 15 (Mangsir 29). But the stakeholders had long called for the lifting of the ban arguing that it was actually hurting the economy. The ban initially included the restriction on the import of 10 types later lowered to 4 types of luxury goods into Nepal comprising smartphones, LED TVs, motorbikes, beverages, etc.

The Minister of Industry, Commerce and Supply, Dilendra Prasad Badu said that the import ban has been lifted as per the recommendation of the study committee formed under the coordination of the Ministry’s Chief Secretary.

After December 16 when the ban ends, Nepali traders will be free to import phones that cost $300 and above, four-wheelers, motorbikes with over 150CC capacity, alcoholic beverages, etc.

Also read: Best Phones Under Rs. 35,000 In Nepal | Latest 2022 Update

The end of the phone import ban is good news for traders

The end of the phone import ban delights mobile traders as well as consumers. The ban has had an impact on the smartphone business in Nepal with the latest data showing a steep fall in phone imports in the first four months of the current fiscal year 2079/80. Mobile traders have been critical of the decision calling the ban irrational.

The government’s end goal was to conserve dollar reserves amidst a horrid liquidity issue, regulate phones through MDMS and curb the grey phone market. But with the government lifting the ban, phone traders will breathe a sigh of relief. As for smartphone consumers, they should easily find high-end smartphones such as Samsung S22 Ultra, Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, etc. without a hassle when the ban ends next week.

Check out: Apple iPhone Price in Nepal | Detailed Specs

Previously, the government had relaxed the import ban on 6 types of items while extending the duration for others.

How do you feel about the government’s decision to end the ban on phone imports finally after months? How did the ban affect you? You can share your experience in the comments below.