KATHMANDU: Imports of electric vehicles (EVs) fell sharply in the month of Shrawan (mid-July to mid-August).
According to the Department of Customs, EV imports declined by 58% the first month of the current fiscal year 2025/26 compared to the same period of the previous fiscal year. Only 160 units of EVs entered the country during the review month of the current fiscal year, compared to 381 units a year earlier.
In terms of value, EV imports in Shrawan amounted to Rs 418.8 million. The import generated Rs 282.9 million in revenue to the government.
Nepal imported EVs from five countries in the review month. India topped the list with 85 units, followed by China with 60 units. Traditionally, nearly 70% of Nepal’s EV imports come from China. Other imports included 13 units from Thailand and 11 units each from the United States and South Korea.
Nepal imported EVs from five countries in the review month. India topped the list with 85 units, followed by China with 60 units.
EV imports declined significantly in the review month, largely due to lower shipments from China.
One of the reasons for this is the disruptions in imports from China. The Rasuwagadhi border point, the main gateway for EV imports, has remained closed since July 8 due to floods and landslides. The second gateway, the Tatopani border in Sindhupalchowk, has also faced repeated closures due to landslides on the Araniko Highway.
Automobile distributors said imports slowed in the review month also because more than 5,500 EVs were imported before the budget announcement on May 27 amid speculation of tax hikes.
Since most of these vehicles are still in stock, demand for fresh imports has declined, they say.
