How Trump’s tariffs could impact Nepal: A Nepali perspective
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GG
By Surakshya Acharya
Content Writer
Updated onApr 9, 2025
When former U.S. President Donald Trump introduced heavy tariffs on imports, it caused a stir in the global market. Although Nepal might not be the direct target of these tariffs, the effects will still reach us especially when it comes to products like the iPhone. Because you know, what happens in Washington doesn’t stay in Washington really. Let's break it down simply.
iPhone price hike
The Trump administration imposed a baseline 10% tariff on all goods entering the US, including products from Nepal. However, other countries faced even steeper tariffs: 20% on goods from the European Union, 26% on exports from India, and a hefty 54% on Chinese goods.
Since most iPhones are assembled in China, this 54% tax could make them much more expensive in the U.S. (some say up to $2,300). But the problem is Apple might lower its profits in America to keep U.S. customers happy and then raise prices in other countries (like Nepal) to make up for the loss.
Stuck in the middle
The U.S.-China trade war started because the U.S. accused China of unfair practices like stealing technology and selling cheap goods. This led to high tariffs on Chinese imports, and China responded by placing tariffs on U.S. goods like soybeans and cars. While Nepal isn’t directly involved, we are affected because we rely a lot on Chinese products, like phones and electronics, which might get more expensive due to these tariffs. For many of us, who already save for months to buy the latest phone this is definitely not great news. You can see how these global changes don't just stay "global" anymore; they affect our wallets too.
Nepal’s role in the global game
Though Nepal may seem far from the big powers like the U.S. and China, we’re not untouched by the effects of this tariff war. We import a significant amount from China, and as the tariffs hit Chinese goods, the prices will likely rise here too. Additionally, if global trade tensions escalate, Nepal’s economy could feel some turbulence, particularly in sectors that depend on affordable imports. It's a reminder that no country is an island when it comes to trade, Nepal included.
Nepal might be a small player in the global market, but we’ll still experience the impact. If prices continue to rise, Nepali consumers who are known for hunting down the best deals may start looking for alternatives. Maybe we’ll have to hold on to our old phones for a bit longer. And even if it’s not the end of the world, things will definitely change.
Conclusion
Nepal might not be directly involved in the tariff wars, but at the end of the day, we’re stuck paying the bill. As prices go up, we might find fewer gadgets in our pockets.