Kathmandu — Gold and silver traders in Nepal staged a protest on Wednesday, voicing opposition to the government’s proposed tax hikes in the upcoming fiscal policy. The new proposal includes a 2% luxury tax on gold and a 13% value-added tax (VAT) on diamonds for the fiscal year 2082/83 (2025/26).
Organized by the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association and the Nepal Gem and Jewellery Federation, the rally moved through key commercial areas of Kathmandu, demanding an immediate rollback of the tax increases.
The demonstration began at Judda Statue in New Road and proceeded through Indra Chowk, Janabahal, Ason, Kamalacchi, Bishwojyoti, Jamal, Ghantaghar, Bhadrakali, Shahid Gate, and returned to New Road, culminating in a gathering at the Old Municipal Office.
Protesters carried placards and chanted slogans such as “Withdraw anti-business tax policies”, urging the government to engage in dialogue. Business leaders argue that the proposed tax structure would create serious challenges for traders and place additional financial pressure on consumers.
