Banana prices soar in Nepal due to import ban on Indian bananas

The government’s ban on the import of Indian bananas has led to a significant drop in banana supply in the Nepali market. With the available supply falling short of demand, banana prices have surged abnormally. As domestic production fails to meet market demand, consumers are forced to pay higher prices.

Currently, consumers have reported that the price of a dozen bananas has reached up to NPR 350 in the retail market. The shortage has become so severe that some shops in Kuleshwor Fruit Market, a major wholesale center, have had to close due to lack of stock.

According to fruit trader Dilip Raut, local production alone cannot satisfy market demand. He mentioned that the banana shortage has made it difficult to run businesses and cover daily expenses. Traders are calling for the resumption of banana imports from India to alleviate the current crisis and stabilize the market. The shutters at Kuleshwor Fruit Market remain closed due to the lack of bananas.

तस्बिरहरूः