Kathmandu: With the government actively preparing the new fiscal year’s budget, a surge of electric vehicles (EVs) has entered Nepal. Fears that taxes on EVs might increase in the upcoming budget—set to be announced on Jestha 15 (May 28)—have led importers to bring in large numbers of vehicles in advance. As a result, the parking area of the Chobhar Dry Port is now filled with EVs.
Most electric vehicles in Nepal are imported from China. Along with Chobhar, Tatopani and Rasuwagadhi customs points have also seen a heavy influx of EVs. The customs yard in Tatopani alone currently holds over 900 EVs, while Rasuwagadhi has received around 600.
According to the Department of Customs, by the end of the month of Chaitra, Nepal had imported 7,967 electric vehicles, out of which 5,889 came from China.
Importers fear that these rates may rise further in the upcoming budget, leading to the current rush in vehicle imports.