Spread the love

Kathmandu, Aug 19: The Nepal Trans-Himalayan Export-Import Association has called for the opening of additional border points with China, citing frequent disruptions at Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani due to floods and landslides during the monsoon. The association said Nepal needs new routes to keep trade smooth and has asked the government to take diplomatic steps and improve infrastructure.

Trade through Rasuwagadhi came to a halt after floods on July 8 washed away the Friendship Bridge that links Nepal and China. Tatopani has also been blocked for two weeks by landslides in Sindhupalchok. With both key border points closed, hundreds of trucks and containers carrying imports from China have been stranded, leaving traders burdened with high costs.

Since this problem repeats every year, the association urged the government to push for immediate operation of other northern border points and develop infrastructure in alternative locations. A parliamentary development committee study in 2015 had already recommended opening Korala in Mustang and Olangchung Gola in Taplejung. About a decade ago, Nepal and China had agreed in principle to open seven northern trade routes, including Tatopani, Korala, Kimathanka in Sankhuwasabha, Lamabagar in Dolakha, Olangchung Gola in Taplejung, Aamjapas in Mugu, Yari Hilsa in Humla and Larke in Gorkha. So far, only Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani are in use.

Korala is considered viable year-round with road access already built on the Nepali side and infrastructure ready on the Chinese side. Studies have shown Olangchung Gola could also be developed into a functioning trade point. The association stressed that these routes must be opened quickly, along with other feasible points, to reduce trade disruptions.

China is Nepal’s second-largest trading partner. Statistics show northern routes are handling a growing share of trade as infrastructure improves. According to the Customs Department, in fiscal year 2024–25, imports worth more than Rs 50 billion came through Tatopani and over Rs 85 billion through Rasuwagadhi.

With both routes shut ahead of festivals, business activities cannot expand as expected, consumers are deprived of affordable goods, and the government loses revenue. The association urged authorities to take swift action to open more border points with China for trade.

People’s News Monitoring Service