Chamber Urges Government to Reconsider Public Vehicle Registration Ban

Nepal Chamber of Commerce has expressed serious concern over the government’s decision to halt the registration of all public vehicles, including electric vehicles, until further notice. The decision, issued by the Department of Transport Management under the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport on Jestha 8, aims to scientifically manage public transportation.

While welcoming the government’s effort to introduce long-term and systematic transport policies, the Chamber stated that the sudden decision without prior consultation with automobile importers and businesses has put major investments at risk. Hundreds of vehicles imported through bank loans and letters of credit are currently in customs clearance, transit, or production stages, creating financial pressure on businesses.

The Chamber warned that the move could negatively impact Nepal’s business credibility in the international market, recalling similar setbacks faced during the COVID-19 import restrictions. It also stated that the decision could affect public transportation services, employment, banking investments, and government revenue collection. The organization has urged the government to immediately review the decision and facilitate registration for vehicles already in the import process while adopting practical and consultative transport policies.