Import growth and growing fear of local producers

In Nepal confinement has just been extended until May 7. Beginning on March 24, containment severely limited travel and road traffic.

 

 

 

But according to the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply, 38,863 tonnes of fresh vegetables have been imported from India since the start of containment. Import volumes increased: 6,289 tonnes for the 1st week, 10,707 tonnes for the 2nd week, 10,222 tonnes for the 3rd week, and 11,713 tonnes for the 4th week.

 

 

 

At the same time, local farmers were forced to destroy their vegetables due to the lack of a market. Due to the limitation of vehicle traffic, farmers are unable to supply their products on the market, said Nepal Farmer Group Federation.

 

 

 

"Although the transport situation has improved somewhat, farmers in rural areas still have difficulties in supplying their products."

 

 

 

The organization believes that the government could have limited the import of vegetables from India to promote local products during the crisis. Local production can satisfy a large part of the demand for vegetables.