New Delhi/Gangtok: India and China on Saturday resumed border trade through the Nathu La Pass in Sikkim, marking the revival of a strategically significant trade route between the two neighbouring countries after a prolonged suspension, as International media reported . It is the ending a six-year suspension that began in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border tensions.
According to the media reports the reopening of trade through the Nathu La Pass is expected to facilitate the movement of approved goods between the two sides, revive economic activity for border communities and strengthen traditional commercial links in the region.
Nathu La, located at an altitude of over 14,000 feet in the eastern Himalayas, serves as one of the designated border trading points between India and China. The route has historically played an important role in cross-border commerce and forms part of the ancient Silk Route.
The resumption of trade is expected to benefit traders and local businesses in Sikkim, while providing renewed opportunities for economic engagement under the established border trade framework between the two countries.
Border trade through Nathu La is governed by bilateral agreements and is conducted under regulated procedures, with a specified list of tradable items and designated trading periods.
The revival of the trade route comes as both countries continue efforts to enhance practical cooperation and maintain stability in bilateral relations. The reopening is also expected to provide a boost to livelihoods in the border areas by restoring commercial activities that had remained suspended.
The Nathu La Pass remains one of the most important land routes connecting India and China, carrying both strategic and economic significance for the two neighbouring nations.