Kathmandu: The Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) has welcomed the Government of Nepal and the Government of India for permitting the use of Indian currency denomination notes of Rs 200 and Rs 500 within Nepal.
The Chamber stated that the decision reflects the strong spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding between the two neighbors and will significantly contribute to facilitating cross-border trade, tourism, and people-to-people movement. The Chamber noted that the availability of these commonly used denominations will help ease financial transactions, particularly in border areas and key commercial hubs.
Welcoming the move, NICCI President Sunil KC said that the decision would play an important role in strengthening bilateral tourism. “The allowance of Rs 200 and Rs 500 Indian currency notes will make travel more convenient for Indian tourists visiting Nepal and encourage greater tourism flows between the two countries,” he said.
Government Spokesperson and Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel had informed that the decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting on December 15. “The provision applies to Nepali and Indian citizens, and only notes issued after November 9, 2016 will be accepted,” he had said, adding that Nepali and Indian citizens can now carry up to INR 25,000 in cash in denominations of 200 and 500 when crossing the border, following a recent government decision aimed at easing cross-border transactions.
According to NICCI, the policy will provide practical relief to Indian visitors as well as Nepali businesses engaged in tourism, hospitality, trade, and related services. It is also expected to enhance transparency and convenience in everyday transactions, thereby supporting broader economic engagement.
The NICCI team, during the meeting with the central bank governor Bishwo Nath Poudel on May 28, had also appraised him of the problem, and the central bank governor Poudel had responded positively. Thus, NICCI appreciates the proactive role of the central bank and governor Poudel.
The Chamber further acknowledged the coordinated efforts of concerned authorities in both countries in addressing long-standing concerns of the business community. NICCI emphasized that such decisions demonstrate responsiveness to the needs of traders, entrepreneurs, and consumers on both sides of the border.
Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties, NICCI expressed confidence that continued collaboration between Nepal and India will further promote trade, investment, and sustainable economic growth. The Chamber also reiterated its readiness to work closely with stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the decision and to advance initiatives that foster closer economic partnership between Nepal and India.
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