Trade through the historic passes in Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim will restart from August 1, reviving traditional commerce and boosting border economies after the pandemic-induced suspension
New Delhi: India and China will resume border trade through the historic Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim from August 1, ending a nearly six-year suspension imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Authorities in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district said preparations at Shipki La have been completed, with 15 to 17 traders expected to cross the border in the first phase under a 72-hour trading window. A Rs 2.58 crore Trade Mart will also be inaugurated to facilitate commerce.
In Sikkim, the seasonal trade through Nathu La will continue until November under existing Standard Operating Procedures. Infrastructure at the Integrated Check Post has been upgraded, while the Indo-Tibetan Border Police has strengthened security, including deploying an all-women platoon for the first time.
India has approved the export of 36 categories of goods and the import of 20 categories through Shipki La, while Nathu La will continue trading in its existing list of approved commodities.
The reopening follows bilateral discussions between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on reviving traditional border trade routes. Officials said the move is expected to boost local economies, generate employment, support tourism and strengthen long-standing commercial links along the ancient Silk Route.
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