A new government directive restricting all public advertisements to state-owned media has triggered strong backlash from Nepal’s private media sector and industry groups.
The decision, issued by the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, instructs federal, provincial and local bodies to publish and broadcast all official notices and advertisements only through government-run outlets such as Gorkhapatra Corporation, Radio Nepal and Nepal Television. Payments for advertisements must also be made directly to the official accounts of these institutions.
Officials say the move aims to address long-standing irregularities in the advertising market, where intermediaries and agencies have been accused of taking large commissions without benefiting either the state or media houses. Concerns have also been raised about misuse of public funds through advertisements placed in low-reach or questionable publications.
However, media organisations and professional bodies have criticised the decision, warning it could weaken independent journalism and limit public access to information. Groups including the Federation of Nepali Journalists and the Media Society of Nepal argue that the policy creates an uneven playing field by excluding private outlets, which make up the vast majority of the country’s media landscape.
Critics also say the directive risks centralising information flow and reducing diversity in news dissemination. They argue that government advertising is not only a financial lifeline for many media organisations but also a key channel for reaching wider audiences.
Industry representatives have acknowledged problems in the advertising system but say the solution should focus on reform and regulation rather than outright restriction. Concerns have also been raised about potential job losses and economic impact across the media and advertising sectors.
The move has reignited debate over transparency, market regulation and press freedom, with calls growing for the government to revisit the policy.