Agricultural Exports and Imports in Nepal’s First Quarter of FY 2025/26
Nepal has witnessed a significant volume of agricultural exports during the first quarter of the current Fiscal Year (FY) 2025/26. According to data from the Plant Quarantine and Pesticide Management Centre Quarantine Office in Kakarbhitta, the total value of exported agricultural produce reached Rs 3.367 billion. This figure highlights the growing importance of agriculture in Nepal’s trade dynamics, particularly through key export products.
The major export items include cardamom, tea, plywood and veneer, ginger, broom grass, and other agricultural goods. These products have played a crucial role in boosting the country’s foreign exchange earnings. Among these, cardamom emerged as the top export item, with a value of Rs 1.51 billion. Tea followed closely, contributing Rs 756.6 million to the export revenue. Plywood and veneer also made notable contributions, with values of Rs 277.4 million and Rs 272.8 million respectively.
Broom grass, locally known as Amliso, was another key product, generating Rs 195.9 million in exports. Other agricultural products such as ginger, fresh vegetables, herbs, and lentils also contributed to the overall export figures. Ginger alone accounted for Rs 119 million, while fresh vegetables brought in Rs 94.7 million. Herbs and lentils added Rs 12.4 million and Rs 74.1 million respectively.
Import Activities at Kakarbhitta
While the focus has been on exports, the same period also saw considerable import activities through the Kakarbhitta customs point. The quarantine office reported that agricultural produce worth Rs 1.451 billion and 365 thousand was imported during the first quarter of FY 2025/26. This indicates a growing demand for certain agricultural products within the country.
The main agricultural products imported include potatoes, millet, pulses, rice, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, garlic, maize, and livestock fodder. These imports are essential for meeting domestic consumption needs and supporting various sectors of the economy.
Among the imports, millet and rice were significant contributors. Millet was valued at Rs 6.2 million, while rice generated Rs 4.96 million. Fresh vegetables, on the other hand, contributed Rs 3.06 million. Additionally, the office reported that fresh fruits worth Rs 236.7 million, garlic worth Rs 179.9 million, and potatoes worth Rs 307.7 million were imported through the customs point.
Economic Implications
The data reflects the dual nature of Nepal’s agricultural trade—exporting high-value products while importing essential staples. This balance is critical for maintaining food security and supporting local farmers. The export of cardamom and tea, in particular, underscores the potential of Nepal’s agricultural sector to compete globally.
Moreover, the import of staple crops like rice and potatoes highlights the need for continued investment in domestic agricultural production. Ensuring that local farmers can meet domestic demand could reduce reliance on imports and strengthen the national economy.
Future Outlook
With the right policies and infrastructure, Nepal has the potential to further expand its agricultural exports. Strengthening supply chains, improving quality control, and enhancing market access will be key factors in achieving this goal. At the same time, efforts to boost domestic production of essential crops will help reduce dependency on imports and promote self-sufficiency.
As the country moves forward, monitoring these trends will be essential for shaping future agricultural strategies and ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.