Betel nut imports to generate Rs 25 billion: Minister Bhandari
He asserted that importing raw betel nuts for industrial use—not for commercial trade—would generate substantial income for the state.
KATHMANDU: Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, has claimed that the government could collect around Rs 25 billion in revenue from betel nut imports.
Speaking at a meeting of the National Assembly’s Development, Economic Affairs, and Good Governance Committee on Sunday, Minister Bhandari said the government amended the law to allow imports due to the potential for significant revenue collection.
He asserted that importing raw betel nuts for industrial use—not for commercial trade—would generate substantial income for the state.
He urged the committee to proceed in line with the Supreme Court’s verdict on the matter.
Minister Bhandari added that strict inspection and monitoring would be carried out to ensure the betel nuts are used solely for industrial purposes.
He expressed confidence that the committee would issue necessary directives to ensure transparency and compliance.
The minister also pointed out that legal hurdles have prevented Nepal from exporting domestically grown betel nuts.
He clarified that DNA testing to distinguish between imported and domestic varieties is not feasible, leaving local farmers in prolonged uncertainty.
