Business Association in Kathmandu Requests Government to Address Issues Regarding Implementation of Maximum Retail Price

In Kathmandu, concerns have been raised by entrepreneurs and business owners regarding the implementation of Maximum Retail Price (MRP) and the need to address non-compliance issues and solutions. The business community has emphasized the importance of gradually expanding the application of MRP to all goods, starting with essential items, and making the application of MRP optional for luxury, technological, and specialty goods. Furthermore, the Chamber has urged for the establishment of a system to allow the adjustment of imported goods to 9 labeling after the mandatory imposition of MRP in order to address the rights of goods imported from countries without an MRP system, such as China. Entrepreneurs have also called for a halt in the current punitive market monitoring and enforcement and a shift towards a policy of facilitation with the government. They have highlighted the potential risks of theft and illicit trade increasing in the market due to the non-compliance with MRP, emphasizing the importance of considering foreign exchange rates, transportation costs, cost of labeling, and distribution in the implementation of MRP. The Chamber has stated that constructive discussions need to take place among the government, private sector, and stakeholders before formulating and implementing policies related to MRP to make the implementation technologically friendly and straightforward.