With Dashain and other major festivals just around the corner, markets are buzzing with shoppers crowding to buy clothes, food, and other household items. For most Nepalis, this is the biggest shopping season of the year. Unfortunately, it is also when black marketing, hoarding, and artificial shortages tend to resurface. Traders often raise prices, knowing households cannot delay their purchases. This annual trend strains people’s finances and causes widespread frustration. This year, the situation is even more volatile, as the nation has just emerged from a major political upheaval. The Gen Z movement brought down the previous government, and the new cabinet is only beginning to settle. Citizens fear that authorities are too preoccupied with forming ministries to closely monitor the markets. Business organizations are aware of this and may exploit the lack of supervision. Unless authorities act decisively, consumers risk being deceived and overcharged more than ever.
Marketing is heart of any business
The previous government had decided to open fair price shops, which recently began operations. The Food Management and Trading Company is selling essential commodities at reduced rates at over 45 centers, including Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur. These shops, open daily until November 1, provide welcome relief to households preparing for the festivities. However, fair price shops alone cannot fully address the problem—they offer temporary relief but do not replace the need for active market monitoring. Authorities must leverage state-owned infrastructure to maintain steady supplies and act promptly against black marketers and hoarders. The real test will be how effectively they prevent price hikes and exploitative practices during this festive season.
Market monitoring teams need to be deployed efficiently and should act immediately when complaints arise, penalizing those who cheat consumers. Festivals are meant to be times of celebration, not stress due to inflated prices. While traders have the right to earn profits, it should not come at the cost of deceiving customers. Fair markets benefit everyone, including honest businesses that are often overshadowed by unscrupulous merchants. Citizens must be able to celebrate Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath without worrying about excessive costs. The new government must use all available tools to keep prices in check. Demonstrating vigilance and action will build public trust and set a positive tone for the months ahead. No family should feel cheated during festive times.
