KATHMANDU: Auto dealers in Nepal are working to bring booked vehicles into the country before Dashain and Tihar.
The supply of vehicles from China was affected after floods disrupted the Rasuwagadhi border point. China also closed the Tatopani border over safety concerns. As a result, importers have started using the Korala border in Mustang to bring vehicles into Nepal.
Several brands have already started sending vehicles through the Korala route. Photos of cars arriving at the border have also started appearing. The Korala Customs Office is currently busy clearing the incoming vehicles.
According to industry sources, brands including Chery, BYD, Nammi, iCAUR, Omoda and Jaecoo, Arcfox, Leapmotor, MG, GWM and Skywell are using or preparing to use the Korala route.
The situation has created concern among both dealers and customers. Dealers need to deliver vehicles booked during the recent auto shows, while customers are waiting to know when their vehicles will arrive.
With Dashain approaching, companies are now giving regular updates about vehicle shipments. Some have issued statements saying that the vehicles are “on the way” or are being brought through the Korala border.
Dealers are under pressure to complete existing bookings before the festive season. At the same time, they need to prepare for new demand as vehicle sales usually increase before Dashain.
The border disruption has also raised concerns among Chinese vehicle brands. With supply from China facing delays, brands importing vehicles from India could get an advantage in the market.
For customers who have already booked vehicles, however, the recent announcements have a simple message: the vehicles are on the way to Nepal.
