Nepal’s foreign trade rises by 15.88 percent, diesel tops imports and soybean oil leads exports

KATHMANDU: Nepal’s foreign trade increased by 15.88 percent in the last fiscal year 2025/26 compared to the previous fiscal year, according to data from the Department of Customs.

During the review period, Nepal imported goods worth Rs 2.09 trillion, marking a 16.20 percent increase compared to the previous fiscal year.

Similarly, exports rose to Rs 315.29 billion, an increase of 13.81 percent compared to the previous year.

The data shows that petroleum products continued to dominate Nepal’s import basket, with diesel recording the highest import value. Meanwhile, processed soybean oil and raw materials emerged as the country’s top export item.

Top 10 exported goods

1. Processed soybean oil and raw materials – Rs 128.74 billion
2. Large cardamom – Rs 12.64 billion
3. Woolen carpets – Rs 10.38 billion
4. Sunflower oil and raw materials – Rs 8.94 billion
5. Jute products – Rs 7.14 billion
6. Processed palm oil – Rs 6.66 billion
7. Polyester yarn – Rs 5.78 billion
8. Felt products – Rs 5.75 billion
9. Polyester yarn – Rs 5.42 billion
10. Dog and cat food – Rs 4.81 billion

Top 10 imported goods

1. Diesel – Rs 172.42 billion
2. Crude soybean oil – Rs 132.76 billion
3. Petrol – Rs 77.26 billion
4. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) – Rs 60.28 billion
5. Iron-based products – Rs 58.52 billion
6. Smartphones – Rs 48.69 billion
7. Retail medicines – Rs 29.15 billion
8. Iron and steel sheets above 600 mm – Rs 27.56 billion
9. Gold – Rs 26.77 billion
10. Aviation fuel – Rs 26.64 billion

The figures indicate that Nepal’s import dependence on petroleum products remains high, while edible oils continue to play a major role in the country’s export sector.