For many years, Nepal’s Commerce Department checked markets only during festivals. People often complained that the department stayed silent the rest of the year. Now, things are changing.
Why the department is suddenly active
The new government has pushed the department to work throughout all seasons. This means winter, summer, and normal days will also have inspections, not just Dashain, Tihar or Chhath.
Recent inspections in Kathmandu
Just this Friday, the department inspected eight different companies and shops in Kathmandu. Crystal Store in Tarkeshwor Goladunga was fined 205,000 rupees. Officials said the store had violated parts of the Consumer Protection Act 2075, especially rules related to product quality, measurement, pricing, and fair business practice.
Under section 39 of the Act, inspectors can immediately fine producers, importers, suppliers, and sellers if they find proof of unfair trade. The fine can go up to three lakh rupees depending on the seriousness of the violation.
Ghumne Kitchen in New Baneshwor, Kathmandu-31 was fined 20,000 rupees. Green Buds Bakery Cafe in Sinamangal was fined 5,000 rupees. The canteen inside Sumeru Hospital, Lalitpur, was told to bring its business documents to the department within three days. Three more businesses received warnings with instructions to improve.
On Mangsir 9, the department inspected areas in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. Fourteen businesses faced action that day. Halesi Mart Pvt. Ltd. in Madhyapur Thimi was fined 200,000 rupees.
Om Shivashakti Ceramic Pvt. Ltd., also in the same area, was fined 50,000 rupees.
The department’s new year-round inspections aim to stop unfair pricing, poor-quality goods, and dishonest trading. This shift signals stricter market discipline ahead.
