Processed edible oils, mainly soybean and sunflower oil, have emerged as a major contributor to Nepal’s exports, totaling Rs 60 billion in the first half of the current fiscal year. Customs data show that raw materials worth Rs 72.68 billion were imported, while processed soybean oil exports alone amounted to Rs 56.82 billion. Edible oil now accounts for nearly 48 percent of Nepal’s total exports, which climbed to Rs 142 billion. However, domestic prices have jumped by Rs 40 to Rs 50 per liter this week, with soybean oil retailing at Rs 295. Experts warn that the trade model, based on a 30 percent value addition to imported raw materials, remains structurally unsustainable.