Nepal often prints its currency notes in China instead of India, and recent decisions show the same trend. Nepal Rastra Bank has awarded a new contract to a Chinese company to print 430 million pieces of the 1,000-rupee note. The Chinese company offered the lowest price, which made it the best option for Nepal. Several companies from Europe, Russia, and other countries also applied, but China’s bid remained the cheapest.
One of the main reasons Nepal chooses China is cost. Chinese printing companies provide lower prices than other countries, including India. Printing banknotes requires high security, special ink, and advanced technology. China offers all of this at a competitive rate, which helps Nepal save money.
In the past, India also printed Nepali currency. But in recent years, Nepal has selected Chinese printers more often. Some experts say this is because China provides both lower cost and better security features. Others believe the decision also reflects Nepal’s growing trade relationship with China.
Nepal is also planning to print redesigned notes, including a new 100-rupee note that shows a revised map. The map includes Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura, areas claimed by Nepal but controlled by India. This change may increase political sensitivity with India, which is another reason Nepal prefers to avoid sending printing contracts there.
Overall, Nepal prints its currency in China because it is cheaper, faster, and more secure. The recent printing contracts show that China continues to be Nepal’s main partner for producing banknotes.
