NADA Delegation Meets Finance Minister to Address Challenges Facing Nepal’s Automobile Industry

On September 16, 2025 (2082 Bhadra 31), a delegation led by NADA President Karan Chaudhary met with Finance Minister Rameshwar Khanal to discuss the nation’s current challenges.

During the meeting, President Chaudhary highlighted that the safety of entrepreneurs and the restoration of peace and order are the most pressing concerns, and urged the government to take concrete measures to support the business community. 

He expressed concern over the deteriorating economy, stressing the need for policies that could boost investor confidence. Chaudhary also raised issues such as compensation for damages caused by recent unrest, the impact of the implementation of Nepal Vehicle Emission Standards 2082 on vehicle prices, and NADA’s 27% contribution to customs revenue. He emphasized that NADA is ready to cooperate with the government in moving forward.

NADA also submitted a 22-point set of recommendations aimed at revitalizing Nepal’s struggling automobile industry. Among them, the association requested that the Loan-to-Value ratio for hire purchase loans on petrol and diesel vehicles be increased from the current 60% to 80%.

Finance Ministry Secretary Ghanshyam Upadhyay assured that efforts were underway to reopen the Tatopani customs route for vehicle imports, which had been disrupted due to damaged roads. He further stated that incentive packages for entrepreneurs would soon be introduced and that discussions with the Ministry of Forests and Environment would be held regarding the implications of the new emission standards.

Concluding the discussion, Minister Khanal assured the delegation that the government would seriously consider the suggestions provided. He said data on the losses and damages from the recent unrest would be collected to take appropriate action. The Minister also promised to explore possible facilities through banks, financial institutions, and tax relief, while maintaining direct communication with the business community.

The NADA delegation included Vice President Nirakar Shrestha, Secretary Bikram Singhania, Treasurer Milan Babu Malla, Joint Treasurer Pankaj Agrawal, and Central Committee Members Akash Golchha, Prakash Kapuri, Meghraj Paudel, Yamuna Shrestha, and Abhik Jyoti.