Nepal Sees Unusual Surge in Walnut Imports, Raising Concerns of Smuggling

Nepal has witnessed an unusual surge in walnut imports, with the latest data showing a significant increase in both quantity and value compared to the previous year.

According to the Customs Department, Nepal imported walnuts worth Rs 3.53 billion in the fiscal year 2082/83, which is more than double the amount imported in the previous year. The quantity of walnuts imported also increased by 117% to 948,062 kg.

The sudden surge in walnut imports has raised concerns among officials, who suspect that smuggling may be involved. Nepal’s walnut imports have been increasing over the years, but the latest figures are unusually high.

China has emerged as the largest supplier of walnuts to Nepal, accounting for 77.45 lakh kg of the total imports. Other major suppliers include Chile and the United States.

Walnuts are considered a luxury item in Nepal and are in high demand, particularly during the festival season. However, the sudden surge in imports has raised concerns that some of the walnuts may be smuggled into India, where they are in high demand.

India has imposed a high tariff on walnut imports to protect its domestic farmers, but Nepal has a relatively low tariff, making it an attractive market for smugglers.

Officials say that while some of the walnuts may be consumed domestically, the large quantity imported suggests that smuggling may be involved.

The government has taken steps to control the smuggling of walnuts, including increasing surveillance at border points and imposing stricter regulations on imports.