Growing shortages and irregular supply of cooking gas have increased consumer interest in electric cooking appliances in Nepal. With uncertainty over the availability of LPG, consumers are increasingly turning to induction stoves, infrared cookers and other electric appliances as alternatives.

According to data from the Department of Customs, Nepal imported 19,508 induction stoves worth Rs. 43.78 million during the first two months of fiscal year 2083/84.

During the same period, the country imported 41,229 infrared stoves worth Rs. 87.54 million, according to the department.

Electric stove imports have increased significantly compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. In the first two months of the previous fiscal year, Nepal imported only 11,663 induction stoves worth Rs. 25.73 million.

Similarly, imports of infrared stoves stood at 13,567 units worth Rs. 24.69 million during the first two months of the previous fiscal year.

With demand increasing, traders have reported that prices of electric cooking appliances have also risen by around 15% to 20%. The growing uncertainty over gas supplies appears to be pushing more consumers toward electric alternatives for household cooking.