KATHMANDU:  Gold and silver traders, along with artisans, have launched protests putting forward various demands.

The Nepal Gem and Jewelry Federation and the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association organized a rally followed by a corner meeting in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

One of their key demands is the removal of the 13% Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed on diamonds and other precious stones.

They have also demanded that the 2% luxury tax levied on gold be scrapped.

Meanwhile, gold and silver traders in Bhaktapur organized a whistle rally as part of the ongoing protest movement.