The recent gas shortage, triggered by tensions in West Asia and disruptions in petroleum and cooking LPG supplies, has pushed Nepali consumers toward electric stoves.
According to the Department of Customs, Nepal imported 147,864 electric stoves in the first eight months of the current fiscal year (mid-July to mid-March). The most popular type was induction stoves, with 104,717 units imported, followed by infrared stoves at 42,218 units. Other types of electric stoves accounted for just 929 units.
The total import value for these stoves reached approximately $2.04 million USD, with induction stoves alone valued at around $1.49 million USD and infrared stoves at $0.51 million USD. The imports have generated government revenue of around $0.30 million USD.
Wholesalers in Kathmandu reported that sales of induction and infrared stoves have increased by 50–70% compared to usual demand. The ongoing gas shortage is seen as the main factor driving this shift in consumer preference.
This surge in electric stove imports highlights how global events, even far from Nepal, are influencing local markets and consumer behaviour, accelerating a shift toward alternative cooking solutions.