Nepal blocks Facebook and other social media platforms

Nepal plans to block some social media platforms, including Facebook, to reduce misinformation and maintain public order. The decision is part of efforts to control the spread of false information about the country's political situation. Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, has a significant presence in Nepal with 2.5 million users. The move is expected to impact the company's revenue and user engagement in the region.

Nepal is at a historic digital turning point as the government has declared that all social media platforms, including Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube, must register within seven days or face a ban [1]. This ultimatum, enforced by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and backed by the Supreme Court, signals a significant shift for tech giants and Nepali users alike [5][9].

The government's push for registration stems from concerns over accountability, law enforcement, and tax collection. Platforms are required to appoint local representatives, provide contact points, and cooperate in investigations related to misinformation, cybercrime, and digital taxation [3][8][7]. Until now, global giants have operated without direct local oversight, with Meta questioning the legal framework for mandatory registration [7]. The new regulations and upcoming digital legislation force their hand.

Success stories exist: TikTok and Viber are already registered in Nepal, demonstrating that compliance is possible [4]. However, apps like Telegram, previously banned for misuse and fraud, are facing similar scrutiny [1].

On Thursday, Nepal's Minister for Communication and Information, Prithvi Subba Gurung, announced that about two dozen social network platforms, including Facebook, X, and YouTube, would be blocked for failing to comply with registration requirements [2][3]. TikTok, Viber, and three other platforms are allowed to operate as they have registered with the government. The government has been asking companies to appoint liaison offices or points in the country and has introduced a bill in parliament to ensure social platforms are properly managed, responsible, and accountable [2][3].

The bill, which has not yet been fully debated in parliament, has been widely criticized as a tool for censorship and punishing opponents who voice their protests online. Rights groups have called it an attempt by the government to curb freedom of expression and violate citizens' fundamental rights [2][3].

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, has a significant presence in Nepal with 2.5 million users [1]. The move to block Facebook is expected to impact the company's revenue and user engagement in the region. While the immediate impact on Meta's financials may be limited, the long-term implications could be more substantial if other markets follow suit with similar regulations.

Institutional investors continue to show interest in Meta Platforms. For instance, BW Gestao de Investimentos Ltda. decreased its stake in Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) by 83.3% during the first quarter, while several other funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company [4].

The financial implications for Meta Platforms are yet to be fully understood, but the company's strong quarterly performance with $7.14 EPS and revenue of $47.52 billion suggests resilience in the face of regulatory challenges [4]. As the situation in Nepal evolves, investors will be closely watching the company's ability to navigate these regulatory hurdles and maintain its user base.

References:
[1] https://medium.com/@maladeep.upadhaya/nepals-digital-crossroads-social-media-ban-and-no-global-payment-what-s-next-for-tech-dadbc38abece
[2] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/technology/nepal-blocks-facebook-x-youtube-and-others-for-failing-to-register-with-the-government/articleshow/123698297.cms
[3] https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/nepal-blocks-facebook-youtube-failing-register-government-125247764
[4] https://www.marketbeat.com/instant-alerts/filing-meta-platforms-inc-meta-shares-sold-by-bw-gestao-de-investimentos-ltda-2025-09-03/