Apple prices climb as Nepal's northern border disruptions raise freight costs

Flood damage and infrastructure issues at Nepal's main northern border points, Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani, have disrupted the flow of Chinese apples, raising freight costs and pushing retail prices higher as Dashash and Tihar approach. Traders are now routing shipments through the Korala crossing in Mustang or shipping by sea via Kolkata, with container costs climbing from $2,500 to $5,000. Amar Baniya reports that ordinary Chinese apples now cost Rs40-Rs50 more per kilogram, and Fuji varieties are also seeing price hikes.

Domestic harvests from Jumla, Mustang and Manang are reaching markets, but their wholesale price of Rs250-Rs270 per kilogram makes them less competitive against imported fruit. Imported apples still dominate the market, accounting for the majority of sales, while domestic production, though growing, remains under 40 percent of total supply.