Nepal Government Issues New Directives on MRP and Labeling to Protect Consumer Rights

Kathmandu. The government has issued new directives regarding Maximum Retail Price (MRP) and product labeling, aiming to ensure price transparency and protect consumer rights in the market.

The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has issued an urgent notice outlining specific instructions for importers, manufacturers, sellers, and consumers.

According to the department, imported goods must now have labels containing importer details and the MRP affixed at the customs point. Similarly, domestic industries are required to clearly display the price, batch number, weight, and expiry date on product packaging during the manufacturing process.

Targeting wholesalers and retailers, the department has instructed them not to buy or sell any goods that lack clear labeling and MRP. It has warned that charging more than the price mentioned on the label under any pretext will result in strict legal action.

Advising consumers, the department has requested them to develop the habit of checking labels, prices, and expiry dates before purchasing any product.

To make market monitoring effective, all District Administration Offices and local levels have been authorized to appoint inspection officers to monitor their respective areas under Section 32 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2075. The department stated that its monitoring teams have increased their activity and that violators will be brought to justice immediately.

The statement issued by the spokesperson mentions that businesses failing to comply with the rules mentioned in the recently issued notice will face fines and other legal actions as per prevailing laws.