India-China Silk Route trade resumes after six years

Cross-border trade between India and China through the Nathu La Pass in Sikkim has resumed after being suspended for six years. The historic trade route, which had been closed since 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, reopened on Saturday. The route was originally revived in 2006 after remaining closed for 44 years following the 1962 war, and its restoration was seen as a symbol of reviving the ancient Silk Route trade.

Under a mutually agreed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), the border trade will operate from May to November every year, from Monday to Thursday. India will export 36 categories of goods, including handicrafts, handloom products, spices, processed foods, agricultural tools, garments and religious items. Imports from Tibet will include woolen garments, footwear, yak-related products, butter, borax, goats and blankets.

Ahead of the trade resumption, infrastructure at the Nathu La Integrated Check Post was renovated and security was tightened. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has deployed additional personnel, including a platoon of women personnel for the first time. Officials said a maximum of 400 traders will be allowed to trade through this route per season. According to officials, while this initiative may not completely transform India-China relations, it represents significant progress in restoring normal trade and communication at the border.