The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) has released its second-quarter (Shrawan-Poush) national accounts estimate for FY 2081/82, projecting a 5.1% economic growth rate. This marks a positive turnaround compared to the same period last fiscal year (2080/81), indicating gradual economic recovery.
Key Growth Drivers
The expansion is attributed to improvements in:
- Transportation sector: Leading growth at 14.2%
- Mining & quarrying: 9.5% growth
- Electricity/gas production: 9.2% increase
- Construction sector: Rebounding with 9.1% growth after previous contraction
- Agriculture: Modest 3.2% growth supported by increased rice, vegetable, and livestock production
Sectoral Performance Highlights
-
Productive Sectors
- Manufacturing shows a gradual recovery
- Financial services grow at 6.6% due to increased deposits/loans
- Trade sector expands by 6.1%
-
Service Sectors
- Information/technology grows at 4.9%
- Public administration: 2.2%
- Health services: 3.1%
- Real estate: 3.1%
-
Underperforming Areas
- Electricity/gas growth slowed by 4.8% quarter-on-quarter
- Accommodation/food services remain negative (-2.7%)
Quarterly Comparison
The economy expanded 2.2% in Q2 (Kartik-Poush) compared to Q1 (Shrawan-Ashwin), showing accelerating momentum. The government maintains its 6%+ annual growth target, supported by:
- Rising imports/exports
- Tourism recovery
- Improved domestic production
What is Economic Growth Rate?
Economic growth represents the percentage change in real GDP (constant prices) compared to previous periods, measuring value added across all financial activities. Nepal calculates this through 18 key sectors, with current estimates showing a broad-based recovery.
Source: Central Bureau of Statistics, National Accounts Estimates