MRP Printing on Packaging in Nepal: Who Must Print What
Quick answer: Nepal's Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection notice of 26 Chaitra 2082 BS says producers must put a permanent label showing price, batch number, weight and expiry clearly on the packaging, importers must label goods with the MRP and importer details at the customs point, and sellers must not buy, sell or distribute goods without a clear label and MRP, or charge above it.
If you are designing packaging for a product that will be sold in Nepal, the maximum retail price (MRP) is a printed element, not an afterthought. This guide explains what the notice says, how it fits with the Consumer Protection Act, 2075, and how to build MRP into your print run.
What the notice requires
The notice, issued in Nepali by the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection, sets out five points:
- Importer: goods imported from abroad must carry a label stating the MRP, with the importer's details, at the customs point.
- Producer: during production, industry must put a permanent label on the packaging that clearly shows price, batch number, weight and expiry.
- Seller (wholesale and retail): do not buy or sell goods without a clear label and MRP, and do not sell above the MRP printed on the label.
- Consumer: check the MRP and the use-by period before buying.
- Enforcement: under Section 32 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2075, all District Administration Offices and local levels hold inspection-officer authority and are asked to monitor the market for clear labels and MRP. Goods found without an MRP label, or sold above it, can be acted on under prevailing law.
A separate notice dated 30 Chaitra 2082 BS addresses MRP on imported goods specifically.
How this connects to the Act
Section 6(2)(j) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2075 lists the maximum retail price including all applicable taxes as required label matter, and Section 6(2)(f) lists retail price, batch number and date of manufacture. The full list is in product label requirements in Nepal. Food has further label duties under the Food Hygiene and Quality Act, 2081; see food label requirements in Nepal.
How to plan MRP on a print run
The MRP, batch number and dates change more often than artwork. Decide the method before you print:
| Method | Best when | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Printed in the main artwork | MRP is stable for the whole run | A price change makes the whole run wrong |
| Blank panel, then stamped or inkjet-coded | Batch and expiry change each batch | Allow a clean, flat, uncoated area for the code |
| Separate MRP sticker | Price varies by market or changes often | The sticker must not hide required text |
| Printed on a sleeve or band | Same pack, different price points | Fit and print registration |
Leave a clear area for variable data on the dieline. Coated or varnished surfaces can smudge ink codes, so ask the printer to keep that panel uncoated or to test a code on the actual material.
Checklist before approving the proof
- MRP is stated as including all taxes
- Batch number and manufacture date have a reserved area
- Weight or quantity is printed in the unit you sell in
- Expiry or use-by wording is included where the product has a deadline
- Producer or importer name and address are printed
- The text is Nepali or English and large enough to read
Frequently asked questions
Is MRP needed on both domestic and imported goods?
Yes. The notice sets separate duties for the importer and the producer, and the seller must not sell without a clear label and MRP.
Who is responsible if the printed MRP is wrong?
The producer or importer approves label content. The printer prints the approved proof.
Can I add the MRP with a sticker later?
The notice calls for a permanent label from the producer. A sticker is acceptable only if it is permanent and does not cover other required information.
Plan your packaging with the MRP in mind
Send your pack size and the variable-data method you plan to use through Thankyooou's contact page. Browse packaging box styles and read how to choose custom packaging before fixing the artwork.
Sources
- Notice on MRP and labels, 26 Chaitra 2082 BS — Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection — the five points above.
- Notice on mandatory MRP for imported goods, 30 Chaitra 2082 BS — Department of Commerce — separate notice for imports (title and date).
- Consumer Protection Act, 2075 — Nepal Law Commission — Section 6(2)(f) and (j).