Key Takeaways:

• Imports and distribution exceed demand, says Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies
• Consumers urged not to stockpile cylinders, buy only as needed
• Legal action threatened against black marketing or artificial shortages

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 5 The government on Tuesday assured consumers that the supply of cooking liquefied petroleum (LP) gas is expected to return to normal within the next few days, urging households not to panic-buy or stockpile cylinders amid concerns over shortages. In a statement, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies said LP gas imports and distribution are currently exceeding the volume required to meet regular demand compared with the same period last year. Ministry spokesperson Netra Prasad Subedi said the government is coordinating with relevant stakeholders to balance demand and supply while improving the efficiency of the distribution system. The ministry said the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has intensified market monitoring, while reforms are being implemented in coordination with the Nepal Oil Corporation and gas industries to make the import, storage and distribution of LP gas more transparent and predictable. It urged consumers to purchase gas only according to their immediate needs and asked suppliers to prioritise households that do not have alternative cylinders. The ministry also warned that anyone found creating artificial shortages, engaging in black marketing, violating supply regulations or causing unnecessary hardship to consumers would face legal action under prevailing laws.