Chamber team monitors Trinagar-Gauriphanta border, calls for strict action against smuggling

Dhangadhi: The Kailali Chamber of Commerce and Industry has conducted monitoring at the Trinagar-Gauriphanta border checkpoint.

A team from the association reached the checkpoint this morning to assess the implementation of rules requiring customs duty on goods worth more than Rs 100 imported through land routes.

During the monitoring, association president Pushkar Raj Ojha stated that the number of Nepalis traveling to Indian border markets for shopping has decreased by 80 to 90 percent. “We also talked to the Armed Police and the SSB across the border,” he said. “They have also said that the number of people going for shopping has decreased by 90 percent, apart from those traveling for employment.”

Ojha emphasized that all concerned agencies should take strict measures not only at customs checkpoints but also to prevent the import of goods through misuse of the open border. He noted that imposing customs duty alone is not a sustainable solution and urged the government to create an environment that supports increased domestic production.

“If domestic production can be increased, goods can be provided to consumers at a lower cost,” he said. “Employment will also increase, and the country’s economy will become more dynamic.”

Senior Vice President of the Kailali Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Keshavraj Joshi, said the association has welcomed the implementation of customs duties on goods valued above Rs 100. He added that Nepali businessmen have taken this system as an opportunity and have committed to providing quality goods to consumers at reasonable prices in a transparent manner.

The association’s team also held discussions with the Kailali Customs Office regarding measures to control customs fraud.

According to the Customs Tariff Act, 2081, taxes must be paid on goods worth more than Rs 100 imported from India via land routes. The provision has been strictly enforced following the formation of the new government.