NRB Sets Monthly Foreign Exchange Quota for Silver Imports

Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has revised the foreign exchange facility for silver imports, introducing monthly quotas for industries and traders while tightening monitoring requirements for silver exports.

Amending its Unified Circular 2081 (2024/25), the central bank said manufacturing industries—such as those producing silver jewellery, utensils and related products—will be allowed to obtain foreign exchange of up to $2 million per month for silver imports. Other business entities will be eligible for a monthly foreign exchange limit of $400,000

Previously, industries were allowed to access up to $500,000 per transaction, while other traders could obtain $100,000 per transaction. The revised provision replaces the transaction-based system with a fixed monthly ceiling.

The circular has also introduced stricter provisions for silver exports, requiring exporters to meet additional compliance measures. Banks have been instructed to verify whether the volume of silver exports is consistent with the exporter’s previous imports, and to ensure that required documentation, including counter-guarantee or undertaking, is duly submitted before facilitating transactions.

NRB has directed authorised banks to carry out enhanced verification and monitoring of both import and export transactions related to silver, in line with existing foreign exchange and trade regulations.