Rice Prices Stay High Despite Industry Pledge as Fair Price Outlets Open

Private rice millers have not lowered prices across Nepal despite committing to cuts of up to Rs 200 per 25-kilogram sack during mid-September talks with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. Market inspections by the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection confirmed consumer rates remain unchanged following steep price surges earlier this year. Wholesalers attribute the standstill to existing inventories bought at peak rates and transport bottlenecks along major highways, while retailer representatives criticize authorities for inspecting small stores rather than holding producers accountable.

Wholesale representatives project minor price drops once freight stabilizes, followed by broader declines after the domestic paddy harvest hits markets in about a month. In the interim, state-run trading enterprises have expanded fair-price outlets across multiple districts. The Food Management and Trading Company and Salt Trading Corporation are distributing subsidized rice, salt, and other essential provisions in locations such as Jhapa and Gorkha to cushion households ahead of the major festive season.