Banana Shortage Hits Nepali Market Amid Supply Chain Disruptions

Kathmandu. A severe shortage of bananas has hit the Nepali market. Due to the scarcity, the Kalimati Fruits and Vegetable Market Development Board has stopped including bananas in its official price list.

The shortage stems from traders boycotting bananas illegally imported through Indian border points, citing concerns over public health and the quality of the produce. Traders claim that domestic production is insufficient to meet demand, leading to the current market gap. 

Amar Baniya, President of the Nepal Fruit Wholesalers Association, stated that the price hike is not artificial but a direct result of supply shortages. He explained that while large quantities of illegal bananas from India previously kept the market stocked, the Association's initiative to halt these imports has led to a sudden supply drop. He noted that domestic production is extremely low, and the removal of illegal imports has left the market empty, driving up prices. 

According to Baniya, the lack of quality bananas has forced consumers in some areas to pay between 300 and 350 rupees per bunch. He emphasized that weak border monitoring allows Indian bananas to enter the market under the guise of Nepali produce, calling for stricter enforcement. 

Farmers, however, claim they supply bananas at 50 to 80 rupees per dozen and accuse middlemen of inflating prices. Baniya rejected this, arguing that most Nepali bananas currently available are of poor quality, causing losses for retailers as consumers refuse to buy them. He stressed that farmers must focus on grading and packaging to remain competitive. 

Baniya disputed government claims of 80 percent self-sufficiency, asserting that actual production is closer to 30 percent. He suggested a policy of gradually controlling imports while simultaneously boosting domestic production.

He further expressed frustration over the government's perceived indifference toward the sector, noting that he has been unable to secure a meeting with the Minister of Agriculture to address the grievances of farmers and traders.