Cross-border trade between India and China through the historic Shipki La pass resumed on Saturday after a six-year suspension, reviving a centuries-old barter route linking Himachal Pradesh with Tibet.
Himachal Pradesh Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi flagged off 16 traders from Namgya, Dubling and Leo villages, who set off with 14 mules loaded with jaggery, rice, tea, sugar, carpets and other notified goods for a 72-hour trading expedition.
The high-altitude pass in Kinnaur district had remained closed since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, dealing a severe blow to local villagers who depend on annual trade in a region that remains snow-covered for most of the year.
The reopening forms part of a broader agreement between India and China to restore commerce through three key Himalayan passes, including Nathu La in Sikkim and Lipulekh in Uttarakhand.
Minister Negi also inaugurated the Chhuppan Trade Mart, a modern facility constructed at a cost of Rs 1.70 crore to facilitate border commerce in the area.
The barter system allows traders to exchange 72 types of items from the Indian side for 30 from Tibet, with all security clearances and background verification completed in advance.
The first batch of traders from villages including Namgia, Chuppan, Nako and Chango departed with traditional Khata scarves presented before their journey.
Kinnaur Deputy Commissioner Amit Kumar Sharma noted that feedback from this inaugural expedition would help authorities understand demand patterns and strengthen cross-border commerce. Traders must return within 72 hours as per prescribed guidelines.
The Traders' Association has requested the state government to expand the scope of import-export goods, with the proposal set to be conveyed to the Chinese government through the Ministry of External Affairs.
While total trade through the three border passes was valued at approximately Rs 49 crore in 2019, the reopening provides a vital economic lifeline for border communities and local tribal traders before heavy winter snowfall forces the passes to close again in November.