Kathmandu, Feb. 5 -- The government has ordered major producers, importers and distributors of food items and edible oil to provide relief to consumers by refraining from unfair profiteering and correcting what it called "unnatural" price hikes.

The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection issued the directive after calling in leading producers, importers and distributors, amid growing complaints from consumers and the media over rising prices of daily essentials such as edible oil, cooking gas and rice.

In a statement on Wednesday, the department said it has intensified market inspections in recent days to control price manipulation. It warned that firms found engaging in unlawful practices would face action under exist...