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Vietnamese President Luong Cuong and Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on Tuesday discussed strengthening ties during the King’s state visit to Hanoi.

Both leaders encouraged airlines to consider direct flights to promote tourism, cultural and people-to-people exchanges. They also pledged closer cooperation in trade and investment, with Vietnam affirming its readiness to support stronger connectivity between Bhutan and Southeast Asia, according to Xinhua.

Chinese toymaker Pop Mart (9992.HK) posted a 396.5 percent surge in first-half net profit and more than doubled revenue, driven by soaring global demand for its Labubu dolls and stronger overseas sales, Reuters reported.

The “Monsters” line, led by Labubu, earned 4.81bn yuan ($670m), over a third of total revenue, while other popular IPs like “Molly” and “Crybaby” each topped 1bn yuan.

According to Reuters, shares have risen over 200 percent this year, lifting Pop Mart’s value above Mattel and Sanrio. The company now runs 571 stores and nearly 2,600 vending machines in 18 countries, with plans to increase supply as Labubu continues to sell out worldwide.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has ordered the mobilization of 4.5m civilian militias to counter what he called US threats of war. He said the groups will defend national sovereignty alongside police and armed forces, Xinhua reported.

The move follows Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez’s accusation that Washington is using anti-drug operations in the Caribbean to justify military action. The US has offered a $50m reward for Maduro’s arrest on drug trafficking charges, which he denies.

Turkish authorities have seized 207 kilograms of methamphetamine and arrested two suspects in one of the country’s largest recent drug hauls, Xinhua reported.

The operation, carried out in Istanbul’s Esenyurt district, also uncovered 98 kilograms of chemical substances used in drug production. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya shared video footage of the raid, which showed the substances stored in containers along with equipment commonly used in narcotics manufacturing.

Authorities have intensified efforts against organized drug trafficking in recent years, conducting coordinated raids across the country, according to Xinhua.

The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) gained 9. 76 points to close at 2, 780. 15 points on Tuesday.

Similarly, the sensitive index surged by 2. 37 points to close at 477. 71 points.

A total of 13,124,310-unit shares of 316 companies were traded for Rs 5. 63 billion.

Meanwhile, Sanvi Energy Limited (SANVI) was the top gainer today, with its price surging by 6. 98 percent. Likewise, Narayani Development Bank Limited (NABBC) was the top loser as its price fell by 6. 14 percent.

At the end of the day, total market capitalization stood at Rs 1. 57 trillion.

The Nepali market is saturated with imported goods. But there are many Nepali products or businesses that are slowly coming up with are on par with international brands. If we, Nepalis, use and promote Nepal-made products whenever possible, it would boost our local economy and encourage the market to focus less on imports. 

Here are some brands that you can try that offer great value for money. They aren’t very expensive and the quality is top notch.

Manai Dekhi

A local business selling scented soy candles, Manai Dekhi has an extensive range of items that you can use in your home to keep it smelling lovely. They don’t skimp on the essential oils so their candles really make your space smell divine. They are well-packaged in glass jars with wooden lids to lock the smell in. Our favorites are the lavender, orange blossom, and strawberry but their other versions are equally good too.

SR Collection

This could very easily be your go-to place for cashmere shawls, bedsheets, and cotton clothes. They are reasonably priced and the quality is one of the best you will find in the market today. They also have a large selection of maternity and baby clothes. You also have the option of choosing from a wide range of fabrics and they will get the clothes stitched for you. From cute onesies to breastfeeding gowns, you will find everything you need if you are expecting.

Mheecha

For a while now, Mheecha seems to have dominated the bag market, especially in Kathmandu. You will often see college and office goers sporting their backpacks or laptop bags. Their simple, timeless, and durable designs have appealed to the masses. Also, the price is less than half (or even less) of what you would pay for some of the imported brands available in the market today. They have quite a good selection of pouches, laptop sleeves, belt bags, and backpacks as well. The colors are a mix of light and bright, making them suitable for all kinds of outfits.

Nana’s Delight

If you tend to keep store bought chocolates like Dairy Milk, Amul, or Mars in your fridge or pantry for those times when you crave something sweet, then it’s time to switch things up. There are many Made in Nepal chocolates that are the best alternative for these brands. Crafted in far smaller batches, they use good ingredients and feel light and fresh than commercially packaged chocolates. Nana’s Delight lives up to its name and their chocolates are simply delightful. They are available in various sizes too. If you go to the farmer’s market at Le Sherpa on Saturday, you can even taste their products before deciding which ones to buy. 

The Birgunj Customs Office collected Rs 18.39 billion in revenue during the first month of the current fiscal year 2082/83 (2025/26).

Effective from July 17, the Birgunj Customs Office and the Dry Port Customs Office merged to provide integrated services. The latest revenue figures reflect collections made under this integrated system.

According to the Office, the collected amount accounts for 87.68 percent of the monthly target. The revenue target for mid-July to mid-August was set at Rs 20.98 billion.

The Office had collected Rs 15.92 billion during the same period last fiscal year (2081/82), according to Customs Chief Administrator Deepak Lamichhane.

The Department of Customs has set an annual revenue target of Rs 273.39 billion for the current fiscal year.

Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry said Tuesday the island must rely on its own efforts for security, after US President Donald Trump claimed Chinese President Xi Jinping assured him Beijing would not invade the island while Trump is in office, Firstpost reported.

Spokesperson Hsiao Kuang-wei emphasized Taiwan is boosting its defense capabilities and resilience. While the US is a key arms supplier, there is no formal defense treaty obligating intervention.

According to Firstpost, China claims Taiwan as its territory and has vowed “reunification” by force if needed. Taiwan recently held it’s longest-ever 10-day live-fire military exercises to prepare for rising tensions.