KATHMANDU: The government has warned businesses of strict legal action against the sale and distribution of unlabeled, substandard, adulterated, and smuggled goods, saying market surveillance will be intensified to protect consumer rights.

In a public notice issued for the fiscal year 2026/27, the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection said it has received complaints about the illegal sale of daily essentials, beverages, and clothing through both physical markets and online platforms.

The department reminded businesses that the Consumer Protection Act, 2018 and the Consumer Protection Rules, 2020 guarantee consumers the right to quality goods and services. It said practices such as adulteration, smuggling, and the sale of low-quality products are punishable under prevailing laws.

The department directed businesses involved in the production, import, transportation, storage, and distribution of goods to fully comply with their legal obligations and regulatory requirements. It also warned that violators found endangering consumer health and rights would face the maximum action permitted under the law.