Nepali shoppers decline at Rupaidiha market following stricter import rules

BANKE: The number of Nepali shoppers visiting Rupaidiha, a border market in India, has declined following the Nepal government’s stricter enforcement of customs regulations on imported goods.

Authorities at the Jamunaha border point in Nepalgunj have tightened checks, requiring travellers to pay customs duty on goods exceeding the prescribed duty-free limit. The move has encouraged more consumers to shop in Nepalgunj while reducing the flow of Nepali customers to Indian markets.

Rupaidiha traditionally attracts large numbers of Nepali shoppers, particularly during major festivals such as Dashain, Tihar and Chhath. However, the stricter customs provisions and increased border surveillance have discouraged many people from crossing the border to shop.