Kathmandu, April 4 -- dependent Nepal, a sharp rise in trade costs triggered by the ongoing West Asia conflict is pushing up prices from kitchen staples to industrial goods, with analysts warning of deeper economic strain ahead.

Industry insiders say prices of goods have already risen by as much as 50 percent in some segments, with further increases likely if the conflict escalates.

Nepal's imports of goods and services make up a significant share of its gross domestic product-generally around 30 to 35 percent or higher-underscoring the country's structural dependence on foreign supply and its persistent trade deficit.

The country imports large volumes of food and agricultural goods, including paddy, rice, edible oil, maize, fruits and...