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Shops, trade, transport and energy

पसल, व्यापार, यातायात तथा ऊर्जा

Nepal imports far more than it exports, so shops, wholesalers, importers, delivery riders, drivers and solar installers all have steady demand. Starting small is cheap (a shop or a motorbike), but import, ride-hailing and solar subsidies have rules that change often, so check the office before you spend money.

Research as of 2026-10. Fees, rules and loan terms change often. Items marked Check rest on secondary sources, so confirm them with the office or on its website before you pay or sign anything.

The market today

Nepal's foreign trade is lopsided. In fiscal year 2025/26 imports were roughly seven times exports, with most goods coming from India, which keeps retail, wholesale and import businesses busy. Delivery and ride-hailing apps have created a large gig workforce even though the legal rules for ride-hailing are still unfinished. Electric cars are about two thirds of passenger car imports, and rooftop solar and EV charging are small but growing, with subsidies and net metering rules that vary by programme.

  • Foreign trade reached about NPR 2,411.66 billion in FY 2025/26, up 15.88%. Imports were about NPR 2,096.37 billion and exports about NPR 315.29 billion, so imports were about 87% of trade.en.himalpress.com (opens in a new tab)Check
  • The trade deficit in FY 2025/26 was about NPR 1,781 billion, up from about NPR 1,527 billion the year before. Press reports cite Department of Customs data; the Customs release itself was not retrieved.en.himalpress.com (opens in a new tab)Check
  • Imports from India alone were about NPR 1,210.6 billion in FY 2025/26. Diesel was the largest single import item (about NPR 172 billion).en.himalpress.com (opens in a new tab)Check
  • EV imports fell about 20% to 10,847 units in FY 2025/26 (from 13,578), but EVs were still roughly 69% of the 15,806 cars, SUVs and vans imported. The 69% share is a calculation from those two reported figures.en.meroauto.com (opens in a new tab)Check
  • Customs duty on imported electric cars is tiered by motor power (reported April 2026): 15% up to 50 kW, rising to 20% customs plus 10% excise for 51 to 100 kW, and much higher above that. Budgets change these rates, so confirm with Customs.en.meroauto.com (opens in a new tab)Check
  • Bank loans for private electric vehicles are capped at 60% of vehicle value since February 2025. A later Nepal Rastra Bank amendment allows up to 80% for large electric passenger vehicles used in public transport.ekantipur.com (opens in a new tab)Check
  • Nepal Rastra Bank removed the import letter of credit cash margin rules in January 2023. No current import cash margin rule was found for 2026, so ask your bank's trade desk.sharesansar.com (opens in a new tab)Check
  • Ride-hailing still has no final law. A draft called the Digital Mobility Service Operation Standards, 2082 was put out for comment around 20 April 2026. As of July 2026 the dispute over whether privately registered red-plate vehicles may carry paid passengers, and over fares, was unresolved.ekantipur.com (opens in a new tab)Check
  • Nepal's second NDC aims to raise clean electricity generation from about 1,400 MW to 15,000 MW by 2030. That total covers hydro, solar, wind and bioenergy, and is not a solar-only target. A newer third NDC reportedly states about 14,031 MW.climateanalytics.org (opens in a new tab)Check
  • Reported total solar capacity ranges from about 115 MW to about 317 MW depending on the source and year. No single official figure was found, so do not quote one to customers.en.wikipedia.org (opens in a new tab)Check
  • AEPC's on-grid rooftop component for commercial and industrial users offers a 50% interest subsidy for five years under the Renewable Energy Subsidy Policy 2022, according to its project page. Whether the window is open now was not confirmed.aepc.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check
  • Pathao claims to provide work to over 200,000 people (riders, drivers, delivery) and the gig economy is cited as about 7% of GDP in an Asian Productivity Organization report. Both figures are second-hand.necojobs.com.np (opens in a new tab)Check

What drives demand

  • Imports are about 87% of trade, so importers, wholesalers and retailers of consumer goods, fuel and materials have a constant supply of customers.
  • Fast growth of app-based delivery, food and ride services has created flexible work for people with a motorbike or car.
  • High fuel import bills and load-shedding memories push households, hotels and schools towards rooftop solar and EVs.
  • Government targets and loan rules favour electric public transport and charging stations.

Challenges

  • Ride-hailing is not fully legal or regulated, so drivers and companies face fines, fare disputes and policy swings.
  • EV duty and loan rules change with each annual budget, which makes pricing and stock decisions risky.
  • Trading margins are thin and most goods come through India, so currency, border and customs delays hit small importers hard.
  • Many solar subsidies are tied to AEPC programmes and accredited companies, so a new installer may not get subsidy-linked jobs at first.
  • Truck and bus permits differ between federal and provincial offices and have been disputed in court.

Where in Nepal

  • Kathmandu Valley: biggest market for ride-hailing, delivery, EV charging and rooftop solar for businesses.
  • Birgunj, Bhairahawa and Biratnagar border areas: import, wholesale, customs agents and freight.
  • Pokhara, Chitwan and Butwal: growing retail, tourism transport and solar demand.
  • Rural hill and Terai districts: solar home systems, solar irrigation pumps and micro-hydro where AEPC programmes operate.

Business and work ideas

Neighbourhood retail shop (grocery, stationery, mobile accessories)

low risk

Open a small shop near homes, schools or a market. Income depends on location, credit given to customers and stock control.

Start-up cost
NPR 2 to 10 lakh (rough estimate, mostly stock and deposit)
Skills
Basic accounting, Bargaining with suppliers, Stock control, Customer service
Suits
Someone with some savings or family support who wants steady, low-tech work.
Note
Cost range is a rough estimate, not from an official source. Unsold stock and unpaid credit are the main losses.

Wholesale or distribution agency

medium risk

Buy from a manufacturer or importer and supply many small shops in a district. Often needs a vehicle and credit from the supplier.

Skills
Route planning, Negotiation, Credit control, Accounting
Suits
People with retail experience and access to larger capital.
Note
Capital needed varies hugely by product. No sourced figure.

Small importer or exporter

high risk

Import goods through a customs agent, or export items such as black cardamom or other crafts and foods. Needs a registered firm, PAN and an EXIM code.

Start-up cost
NPR Bank guarantee of about 3 lakh reported for the EXIM code, plus stock and agent fees
Skills
Market research, Customs paperwork, Negotiation, Basic English
Suits
Someone with a clear product, a reliable overseas or Indian supplier, and savings to survive delays.
Note
The bank guarantee figure comes from law-firm blogs; the Customs notice title exists but its body was not retrieved. Verify before applying.

Delivery rider (app or courier firm)

medium risk

Deliver food and parcels using your own motorbike or a company vehicle. Pay is per trip or a monthly wage.

Start-up cost
NPR Motorbike, helmet, licence and phone (cost of the bike varies; null)
Skills
Riding licence, Navigation, Timekeeping, Phone apps
Suits
Young people who want to start earning quickly with a two-wheeler.
Note
Income claims on job sites are optimistic. Fuel, repairs and fines come out of your earnings.

Taxi, ride-hailing or goods vehicle ownership

high risk

Buy a car, tempo, mini truck or electric vehicle and drive it or hire a driver. EVs have lower running cost but need loans and correct permits.

Skills
Driving licence of the right category, Vehicle upkeep, Bookkeeping
Suits
Experienced drivers who can fund a down payment (loan cap is 60% for private EVs).
Note
Ride-hailing with private red-plate vehicles is not clearly legal and can lead to fines. Public vehicles need route permits.

Solar installer or maintenance technician

medium risk

Install and service rooftop and home solar systems for households, schools, hotels and small businesses. Many go on to start their own company.

Start-up cost
NPR Small tool kit and training to start as a technician; a company needs stock, vehicle and working capital (null)
Skills
Basic electrical wiring, Safety at height, Reading system sizing sheets, Customer service
Suits
People with an electrical or technical diploma or an apprenticeship.
Note
Subsidy-linked work generally needs an AEPC accredited company. Start by working for one.

EV charging point host

high risk

Install a public or semi-public charger at a hotel, shop, parking lot or fuel pump and earn per unit sold. NEA amended its distribution regulations for public charging stations in 2025.

Skills
Electrical basics, Site selection, Payment apps, Customer service
Suits
Property owners or small businesses with a parking area on a busy road.
Note
Too few EVs in some towns to repay quickly. Cost and concessional loan availability not confirmed.

Vehicle repair workshop (two-wheeler or EV)

low risk

Fix and service motorbikes, scooters and electric vehicles. Technicians are in demand because EV skills are rare.

Start-up cost
NPR Tools and rent (null)
Skills
Mechanical repair, Electrical diagnosis, Customer trust
Suits
Automobile TSLC or diploma graduates, or apprentices.
Note
A year or two as an employee first reduces risk.

Step by step

  1. Decide your business type and name

    Choose between a sole proprietor shop (a private firm) and a company. A firm is simpler and cheaper; a company limits your personal liability but needs more paperwork.

    Where
    Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection online portal, or your ward office
    Level
    federal
    Documents
    Citizenship certificate, Proposed business name, Passport size photos
    Time
    A few days to a week

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)doc.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

  2. Register the firm

    Register as a private firm. Domestic firms may also be registered at your local government; firms that trade internationally use the Department of Commerce portal. Ask the local office which applies to your shop.

    Where
    Department of Commerce online portal, or municipality or rural municipality business registration office
    Level
    local
    Documents
    Citizenship copy, Rental agreement or land document for the shop, Photos, Application form
    Time
    1 to 7 days

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)doc.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

  3. Get a PAN

    Every business needs a Permanent Account Number to pay tax and open a business bank account.

    Where
    Inland Revenue Department or your local tax office, or online taxpayer portal
    Level
    federal
    Documents
    Firm registration certificate, Citizenship copy, Business address proof
    Time
    Same day to a few days

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)ird.gov.np (opens in a new tab)

  4. Register for VAT if you must

    Reported thresholds are NPR 50 lakh yearly turnover for goods and NPR 30 lakh for services. Some trades, including importers of goods above a small consignment value and motor parts and electronics, must register regardless of turnover. Register within 30 days of crossing the limit.

    Where
    Inland Revenue Department via the taxpayer portal
    Level
    federal
    Documents
    PAN certificate, Firm registration, Lease or ownership document, Bank details
    Time
    Days to weeks

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)lawalpine.com (opens in a new tab)Check

  5. Open a business bank account and arrange a bank guarantee

    Needed for payments and, for importers, the bank guarantee for the EXIM code. Use a commercial bank that offers trade services.

    Where
    A licensed commercial bank
    Level
    private
    Documents
    Firm registration, PAN, Citizenship, Photos
    Time
    1 to 3 days

    customs.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

  6. Get an EXIM code (importers and exporters)

    A 13 character identification number from the Department of Customs that you need before clearing any goods. Apply via the National Single Window portal and submit the supporting papers and bank guarantee as the Department asks.

    Where
    Department of Customs through the National Single Window portal
    Level
    federal
    Documents
    Firm or company registration, PAN or VAT certificate, Citizenship of owner or directors, Bank guarantee or recommendation, Tax clearance if requested
    Time
    About a week according to a law-firm blog

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)customs.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

  7. Hire a licensed customs agent for each shipment

    You can clear goods yourself or appoint a licensed agent using the format in Schedule 7 of the Customs Regulation. Beginners usually use an agent to avoid mistakes in classification and valuation.

    Where
    Licensed customs agents near the border point or dry port
    Level
    private
    Documents
    Appointment letter (Schedule 7 format), Invoice, Packing list, Bill of lading or consignment note
    Time
    Per shipment

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)lawcommission.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

  8. Get the right driving licence for your vehicle

    Apply online, pay fees, take the medical, written and trial tests. Licences are valid for five years. Categories differ (A motorbike, B light car, heavier categories for trucks and buses); confirm the exact letters at the transport office.

    Where
    Department of Transport Management online system and the provincial transport management office
    Level
    province
    Documents
    Citizenship or national ID, Medical report, Photo, Fee receipt
    Time
    A few weeks including tests; smart cards reported ready within 24 hours of approval in 2026

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)applydl.dotm.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

  9. Register the vehicle and obtain route permit if commercial

    Register the vehicle at the transport office. Taxis, buses and goods carriers need commercial registration, and inter-province routes need a permit from the Department of Transport Management. Registration of new public vehicles has been frozen or restricted at times, so ask before buying.

    Where
    Provincial Transport Management Office; Department of Transport Management for inter-province permits
    Level
    province
    Documents
    Vehicle purchase invoice, Customs or tax papers, Insurance, Owner citizenship, Pollution certificate if required
    Time
    Days to weeks

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)dotm.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

  10. For solar work, register with AEPC as a competent company and follow NEA rules

    Subsidy-linked solar work is done by accredited companies that AEPC lists each fiscal year. Grid-connected rooftop systems also need NEA permission and a net metering arrangement. Contact AEPC and the local NEA distribution centre before you quote work.

    Where
    Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, Lalitpur; NEA distribution centre
    Level
    federal
    Documents
    Company registration, PAN and VAT, Technical staff certificates, Past project record, Application as per AEPC notice
    Time
    Depends on the annual call for applications

    Do it online (opens in a new tab)aepc.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

Permits, licences and registrations

Private firm registration (sole proprietorship)

Issued by
Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection or local government
Needed when
Before you open a shop or trade
Valid for
Renew yearly (check the portal)
Law
Private Firm Registration Act, 2014 BS
doc.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

Municipal business or trade licence

Issued by
Municipality or rural municipality
Needed when
For a shop, workshop or any local business, as local rules require
Valid for
Yearly
Law
Local Government Operation Act, 2074
primelawnepal.com (opens in a new tab)Check

PAN

Issued by
Inland Revenue Department
Needed when
For every business and for a business bank account
Valid for
Permanent, annual returns required
Law
Income Tax Act, 2058
ird.gov.np (opens in a new tab)

VAT registration

Issued by
Inland Revenue Department
Needed when
Above the turnover limit or in a mandatory sector or when importing
Valid for
Ongoing, monthly returns
Law
Value Added Tax Act, 2052
ird.gov.np (opens in a new tab)

EXIM code

Issued by
Department of Customs
Needed when
Before importing or exporting goods
Fee
NPR Renewal fee reported as 1,000 by a law-firm blog; null for first issue
Valid for
Renewed regularly with bank guarantee
Law
Customs Act, 2064 and Customs Regulation, 2064
customs.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

Customs agent licence

Issued by
Department of Customs
Needed when
To work as a clearing agent for others
Valid for
One year, renewable (2016 report)
Law
Customs Regulation, 2064
kathmandupost.com (opens in a new tab)Check

Driving licence

Issued by
Department of Transport Management and provincial transport offices
Needed when
Before driving any motor vehicle on a public road
Fee
NPR Varies by province and category
Valid for
5 years
Law
Vehicle and Transport Management Act, 2049
applydl.dotm.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

Vehicle registration and route permit

Issued by
Provincial Transport Management Office; Department of Transport Management for inter-province routes
Needed when
Every vehicle; route permit for public and goods transport
Valid for
Yearly renewal of tax and registration
Law
Vehicle and Transport Management Act, 2049
dotm.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

Ride-hailing operator registration (proposed)

Issued by
Department of Transport Management
Needed when
Draft standards would require platforms to register and be licensed; not final as of July 2026
Valid for
Not yet fixed
Law
Draft Digital Mobility Service Operation Standards, 2082
ekantipur.com (opens in a new tab)Check

AEPC accredited company listing (solar)

Issued by
Alternative Energy Promotion Centre
Needed when
To install subsidy-supported solar systems
Valid for
Renewed each fiscal year (lists are published for FY 2082/83)
Law
Renewable Energy Subsidy Policy, 2022
aepc.gov.np (opens in a new tab)Check

Net metering agreement and public charging station approval

Issued by
Nepal Electricity Authority
Needed when
Grid-connected rooftop solar selling extra power; public EV chargers
Valid for
As per agreement
Law
Electricity Distribution Regulations, 2078 (amended 2025)
nea.org.np (opens in a new tab)Check

Offices you will deal with

Private steps

  • Open a business bank accountNeeded to receive payments, take a vehicle or solar loan and to give a bank guarantee for an EXIM code.
  • Buy vehicle insuranceThird-party insurance is compulsory for any vehicle you drive for work; a comprehensive policy protects your loan.
  • Hire an accountant or bookkeeperVAT returns and customs documents are easy to get wrong; a part-time accountant saves penalties.
  • Get quotes and sign a written contract with suppliers or solar customersA written order stops disputes over price, warranty and delivery date.

Loans, grants and support

AEPC on-grid rooftop interest subsidy for commercial and industrial users

A 50% interest subsidy for five years on eligible rooftop solar loans, stated on the AEPC project page under the 2022 subsidy policy.

Provider
Alternative Energy Promotion Centre
Who can apply
Commercial and industrial users and eligible energy service companies; confirm that the window is open.
Check

AEPC competent company programme

AEPC publishes yearly lists of accredited firms for solar pumping, biogas and solar home systems. Joining a list gives access to subsidy-linked jobs.

Provider
Alternative Energy Promotion Centre
Who can apply
Registered companies meeting technical and service criteria set in each AEPC notice.

Solar irrigation pump subsidy

A reported 60% subsidy on solar irrigation pumps for farmers, delivered through accredited companies.

Provider
AEPC
Who can apply
Farmers or groups applying through AEPC or local government programmes.
Check

EV and vehicle loan rules

Loan up to 60% of value for private EVs; up to 80% for large electric public passenger vehicles under the Unified Directives, 2082.

Provider
Nepal Rastra Bank (via commercial banks)
Who can apply
Normal bank credit checks; ask your bank for the current directive.
Check

Concessional loans for charging stations

A 2021 amendment introduced concessional refinance for charging station development. Rate and whether the scheme is still open were not confirmed.

Provider
Nepal Rastra Bank refinancing
Who can apply
Private operators through participating banks.
Check

CTEVT scholarships and short training

Reserved seats and scholarship quotas exist in many CTEVT programmes; check each admission notice.

Provider
CTEVT and affiliated institutes
Who can apply
As stated in each admission notice.
Check

Education and training

TSLC

TSLC in Electrical Engineering

Providers
CTEVT affiliated technical schools and polytechnics, public and private
Duration
18 months including about 6 months of on-the-job training
Entry
SLC or SEE passed; older candidates may need the CTEVT entrance test
seecs.ctevt.org.np (opens in a new tab)
TSLC

TSLC in Automobile Engineering

Providers
CTEVT affiliated technical schools; an apprenticeship version also exists
Duration
18 months including about 3 months of on-the-job training
Entry
SEE appeared or passed, check current CTEVT notice
seecs.ctevt.org.np (opens in a new tab)
Diploma

Diploma in Electrical Engineering or Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Providers
CTEVT affiliated polytechnic institutes
Duration
3 years (six semesters)
Entry
SEE passed, usually with a minimum GPA and a CTEVT entrance exam (college pages state GPA 1.6)
ctevt.org.np (opens in a new tab)
Diploma

Diploma in Automobile Engineering

Providers
CTEVT affiliated polytechnic institutes
Duration
3 years
Entry
SEE passed and CTEVT entrance exam
ctevt.org.np (opens in a new tab)
Short course

Driving training school course

Providers
Private driving schools; check that the school is recognised by the transport office
Duration
Usually a few weeks (not verified)
Entry
Minimum age and eligibility set by the Department of Transport Management
applydl.dotm.gov.np (opens in a new tab)
Bachelor

BBA, BBS or logistics and supply chain subjects

Providers
Universities and colleges in Kathmandu and larger cities
Duration
4 years (BBA), 4 years (BBS)
Entry
10+2 or equivalent, plus a college entrance test
ctevt.org.np (opens in a new tab)

Careers

Delivery rider (app based)

How to get in
Driving licence for motorbike (category A), own bike, phone and app sign up
Pay per month
NPR 25,000 to 60,000 gross according to a career blog; fuel and repairs reduce this
necojobs.com.np (opens in a new tab)Check

Delivery rider (distribution or courier company employee)

How to get in
Licence and a two-wheeler, sometimes SEE or bachelor level for fresh graduates
Pay per month
NPR 25,000 to 40,000 in 2026 job listings
kumarijob.com (opens in a new tab)Check

Customs agent (clearing agent)

How to get in
Licence from the Department of Customs after a written test and interview; a 2021 notice required age 21, a bachelor degree and basic computer training
collegenp.com (opens in a new tab)Check

Pitfalls to avoid

  • Do not buy a vehicle to run as ride-hailing without checking the current legal status. Red-plate private vehicles used for paid rides can be fined while rules are unsettled.
  • Do not trust a figure for the EXIM bank guarantee or paid-up capital from a blog alone. Read the Customs notice or ask the Department.
  • Importing without a licensed agent or with wrong product codes can lead to heavy duty and fines.
  • Do not over-stock a shop on credit. Unsold goods and unpaid customer credit close more shops than low sales.
  • Delivery rider pay quoted online is a maximum. Subtract fuel, servicing, fines and days without orders.
  • EV duty and loan limits change in each annual budget. Do not sign a purchase contract that assumes today's duty will stay.
  • A solar company that is not on the AEPC accredited list cannot give you the subsidy. Ask for the listing page before paying a deposit.
  • Fake job and visa agents sometimes advertise driver and technician jobs abroad. Use only Department of Foreign Employment approved agencies and never pay without a receipt.

Sources

  1. Foreign trade expands 15.88% to reach Rs 2,411.66 billion, Himal Press, read 2026-10-15
  2. Nearly 16,000 cars imported into Nepal in FY 2025/26 as EV imports drop 20%, MeroAuto, read 2026-10-15
  3. Competent Companies, Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, read 2026-10-15
  4. Promotion of Solar Energy in Rural and Semi-urban Regions, Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, read 2026-10-15
  5. Department of Customs homepage and EXIM notices, Department of Customs, read 2026-10-15
  6. Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection, Government of Nepal, read 2026-10-15
  7. Inland Revenue Department homepage, Government of Nepal, read 2026-10-15
  8. Department of Transport Management homepage, Government of Nepal, read 2026-10-15
  9. Driving licence application portal, Department of Transport Management, read 2026-10-15
  10. Amendment to Electricity Distribution Regulations regarding public charging stations, Nepal Electricity Authority, read 2026-10-15
  11. Courses and Programs, CTEVT, read 2026-10-15
  12. TSLC in Electrical Engineering curriculum, CTEVT, read 2026-10-15
  13. Schedule 7 customs agent appointment, Nepal Law Commission, read 2026-10-15
  14. Ride-hailing rules remain unresolved due to fare dispute, Kantipur, read 2026-10-15
  15. Now only 60% loan is available to buy an electric vehicle, Kantipur, read 2026-10-15
  16. Banks allowed to finance up to 80 percent of large electric public vehicles, Nepse Trading, read 2026-10-15
  17. NRB removes the LC margin imposed on imports of goods, ShareSansar, read 2026-10-15
  18. VAT in Nepal rates and thresholds 2082/83, Law Alpine, read 2026-10-15
  19. What is the salary of Pathao rider in Nepal, Neco Jobs, read 2026-10-15
  20. Delivery rider vacancy listing, Kumari Job, read 2026-10-15
  21. Nepal's ambitious climate target, Climate Analytics, read 2026-10-15
  22. Clearing customs, Kathmandu Post, read 2026-10-15