India, China Resume Border Trade Through Nathu La Pass After Six-Year Suspension

India and China have officially resumed border trade through the historic Nathu La Pass in Sikkim, located at an altitude of nearly 14,000 feet along the ancient Silk Route, ending a six-year suspension.

The reopening ceremony was attended by Sikkim Commerce and Industries Secretary Karma D. Youtso, who represented the Indian side and formally announced the resumption of trade. China was represented by Tibetan border trade officials and members of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Despite being described as a significant step toward improving bilateral ties, the absence of senior political leaders from either country raised questions about the broader diplomatic significance of the event. No Indian or Chinese ministers, nor any prominent trade officials, attended the ceremony. Furthermore, no major commercial cargo or exchange of goods took place on the first day.

Border trade through the Nathu La route had been suspended in 2020 following heightened military tensions between India and China. In addition to Nathu La, border trade has also resumed through Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh and Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand.

Addressing the ceremony, Secretary Karma D. Youtso announced that 38 registered Indian traders have been issued permits for this year’s trading season. Around 36 notified categories of goods will be exchanged, including handicrafts, handloom products, traditional religious items, ready-made garments, and other approved commodities.

The seasonal trade will operate from Monday to Thursday until the end of November.

Nathu La Pass was originally closed after the 1962 India-China War and remained shut until it was reopened in 2006. However, it was closed again in 2020 due to the border standoff between the two countries.