Kathmandu, May 29 -- The government has decided to maintain the existing tax and duty structure on the import of electric vehicles (EVs) for the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26, in a move aimed at promoting cleaner transport and increasing domestic electricity consumption.

Presenting the federal budget in Parliament on Thursday, Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel said, "To encourage the use of electric vehicles, reduce environmental pollution, and boost internal electricity consumption, all existing taxes and duties on such vehicles will remain unchanged."

Electric vehicle imports in Nepal have surged over the past few years, supported by favourable tax policies, increased environmental awareness, and a growing charging infrastructure. The con...