Kathmandu— Nepal's Madhesh Province experienced a significant increase in new industry registrations during the fiscal year 2082-83 BS (2025-26), with a total of 5,068 businesses officially registered. The majority of these were concentrated in Parsa, Dhanusha, Bara and Sarlahi districts, while nearly 2,000 existing industries closed during the same period, largely attributed to economic slowdowns and financial constraints. The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism reported that revenue generated from registrations and renewals reached Rs 52.649 million.

Registration Numbers by District

Parsa district led the province with 1,101 new industries registered, followed closely by Dhanusha at 777. Bara saw 639 new registrations, while Sarlahi recorded 636. Siraha and Rautahat districts each registered 554 and 514 new businesses respectively, with Mahottari adding 314 and Saptari the fewest at 314.

Industry Renewals and Closures

Alongside the influx of new businesses, 7,540 industries underwent a renewal process during the fiscal year. However, 1,938 industries and business enterprises were closed or deregistered, with the commerce sector accounting for the majority of these closures at 1,117. Upendra Kumar Mahato, Information Officer of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, indicated that economic factors played a key role in these closures.

Economic Factors Impacting Businesses

The rise in business closures has been linked to the ongoing economic slowdown, liquidity constraints, and a shortage of investment capital. These challenges have created a difficult operating environment for businesses across the province, leading some to cease operations. Mahato stated that 6,122 private firms and 18 partnership firms were newly registered during the period, alongside the aforementioned renewals.

The Madhesh Province Ministry continues to monitor economic conditions and support business development initiatives in an effort to mitigate challenges and foster growth.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.