The findings of the Nepal COVID-19 Market Update #7 are:
- Retail prices of food staples were relatively stable and showed only a marginal fluctuation. Prices of some vegetables, fruits and chicken meat declined, while potato and apple prices increased in October 2020.
- Continued improvement in functioning of markets was observed, with adequate availability of food and non-food commodities in markets, and improved supply and transportation of goods reported across the country.
- Demand for food and non-food commodities remained moderate and did not reach the pre-COVID-19 levels despite the expected increase during the festival season.
- Despite the observed improvement in market functioning since the easing of the second COVID-19 lockdown, the prolonged impact of the COVID-19 crisis, coupled with uncertainty and frequent localized disruptions in the supply of goods, has resulted in the retail prices of most essential commodities remaining volatile. The continued pressure on vulnerable households can affect their ability to access essential food and non-food commodities, and thereby have negative impact on their food security status.