India-China border trade resumes via Shipki La after 6 years; first batch of 16 traders departs
Cross-border trade between India and China via the Shipki La pass in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district has resumed after a hiatus of six years. This historic Silk Route, connecting India to Tibet, has long been a vital corridor for border trade. The resumption of trade is expected to boost economic activity in border areas and create new opportunities for local traders.
Himachal Pradesh's Revenue and Horticulture Minister, Jagat Singh Negi, flagged off the first batch of 16 Indian traders on Monday. He stated that trade between India and China would currently operate under a barter system, involving the exchange of goods rather than currency. Under the established guidelines, traders are required to return to India within 72 hours.
On this occasion, the Minister also inaugurated the modern 'Chhuppan Trade Mart,' established to facilitate cross-border trade in the Shipki La region. He noted that this facility would provide essential infrastructure for traders and help streamline border trade operations.
The Minister urged traders to adhere to the import-export regulations set by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry with complete transparency and responsibility. He emphasized that compliance with rules and adherence to safety standards are crucial for the success of border trade.
Under the current arrangement, 72 items from India and 30 items from China are eligible for barter exchange. However, traders have also requested an expansion of the list of tradable goods. In response, Jagat Singh Negi stated that the state government would present this proposal to Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Subsequently, the proposal would be forwarded to the Chinese government through the Ministry of External Affairs.
The resumption of border trade via Shipki La after nearly six years is viewed as a significant step towards boosting economic activity in the India-China border regions. This is expected to benefit traders in Kinnaur and surrounding areas, as well as lend new strength to traditional trade relations.
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