Cheap Indian imports push Nepali banana farmers to the brink

Uncontrolled imports of Indian bananas are devastating Nepal’s banana industry, with billions of rupees (≈ $7 million+) worth of local produce rotting in fields. Farmers blame the crisis on lower import taxes and weak border quarantine checks.

According to local media, Nepali bananas, typically sold from July to November, are now fetching just Rs 10–15 (≈ $0.07–0.11) per dozen — far below last year’s Rs 40–50 (≈ $0.28–0.35). Growers in Kailali and Kanchanpur say they can’t cover costs and warn of nationwide protests unless imports are halted.

The Banana Producers and Traders Association has demanded a temporary ban until November and stricter controls at customs points.

Bananas are cultivated in 69 districts, producing 383,000 tons yearly on 23,400 hectares, valued at Rs 15 billion (≈ $105.7 million). Kailali alone contributes Rs 2 billion (≈ $14.1 million). Farmers warn unchecked imports are deepening the trade deficit and pushing local producers to collapse.

source: theannapurnaexpress.com

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