Nepal shares a 378-kilometre open border with Bihar. Meanwhile, around 50 rural markets operate along this stretch. However, the wedding season now faces disruption due to a new rule. Nepal imposed strict customs duty on Indian goods recently.
Mandatory Duty On Purchases Above ₹100
According to the new government order, Nepal changed earlier relaxations. Previously, small purchases did not attract duty. However, now every purchase above ₹100 requires customs payment. Therefore, authorities made bhansar compulsory under the new regulation.
Buyers And Traders Face Immediate Impact
For decades, Nepal residents visited Bihar markets daily. They purchased items like cakes, biscuits, clothes, cosmetics, vegetables, spices, fruits, milk, medicines, cement, and electrical goods. However, the new rule now affects these regular purchases. Therefore, both buyers and traders show concern.
Cost Burden Increases With New Tax Rates
Earlier, people carried goods worth thousands without paying tax. However, the new rule removes that flexibility completely. Now, buyers must pay bhansar on every eligible purchase. Additionally, this duty ranges between 5 percent and 30 percent.
Pressure Builds On Local Economy And Households
Traders stated that the rule impacts six districts of Madhesh province. Moreover, local businesses in Bihar now face reduced demand. At the same time, Nepal households experience increased financial pressure. Therefore, both sides feel economic strain.
Strict Enforcement Expands From UP To Bihar Border
Meanwhile, Nepal’s security forces announced the rule using loudspeakers. They clarified that no exemption applies to citizens, officials, or NGO workers. Earlier, strict checks started near the Uttar Pradesh border. Now, authorities enforce similar inspections along the Bihar border as well.
