Increase in Imports of Millets and Vegetables

Key Points:

  • Millet Imports:
    • Nepal imported 17,797 tonnes of millet from India in the fiscal year 2080/81, worth Rs 854 million.
    • This is a rise from the 16,035 tonnes worth Rs 513 million imported in the previous year (2079/80).
    • The increase is due to a sharp drop in millet farming in Nepal, leading to greater reliance on imports.
  • Vegetable Imports:
    • Imported pumpkins are dominating the market despite local production. Nepal imported Rs 211 million worth of pumpkins last year, with 5,075 tonnes coming from India.
    • Other significant imports include:
      • Tomatoes: 51,113 tonnes costing Rs 1.2 billion.
      • Green Chilies: 14,787 tonnes costing Rs 295 million.
      • Okra: 15,029 tonnes costing Rs 300.5 million.
    • Commonly imported vegetables also include onions, gourds, carrots, squash, and yam.
  • Buckwheat Imports:
    • Despite being growable in Nepal, 209 tonnes of buckwheat were imported, costing over Rs 13 million.
  • Livestock Feed:
    • Nepal imported 1,443 tonnes of cattle feed worth Rs 46 million.
  • Economic Impact:
    • Imports of fruits and rice amounted to Rs 4.87 billion.
    • Pulses (legumes) are also an important import for Nepali cuisine.
  • Challenges for Farmers:
    • Nepali farmers struggle to find markets for their products, highlighting issues within the agricultural sector despite the rise in imports.