Kathmandu. The import of electronic cooking appliances in Nepal has increased significantly in the first two months of the current fiscal year 2083/84. According to the data of the Department of Customs, the import of induction stoves, rice cookers and infrared stoves has increased sharply compared to the same period last year.

According to the department, 19,500 units of induction stoves worth Rs 4,37,80,000 were imported in July and August. In the same period last year, only 11,600 units of induction stoves worth Rs 2,57,29,000 were imported. This shows an increase of about 70 per cent in terms of value and about 68 per cent in terms of quantity.

There has also been a significant increase in the import of rice cookers. In the first two months of the last fiscal year, 47,400 units of rice cookers worth Rs 6.62 crore were imported, while in the same period of the current fiscal year, 73,000 units worth Rs 11.90 crore were imported.

Similarly, the import of infrared stoves has increased at the fastest rate. According to the department’s data, more than 41,000 units of infrared stoves worth Rs 8.75 crore were imported in the same period of the last fiscal year.

It is estimated that the import of LP appliances may have increased as consumers are attracted to alternative electronic appliances following the acute shortage of LP gas seen since February-March last year.

The latest import data also shows that the pace of electrification of kitchens is accelerating in Nepal with the improvement in electricity supply and the increasing trend of the use of electronic appliances.