India, China to Resume Nathu La Border Trade from August 1

India and China are set to resume border trade through the Nathu La Pass in East Sikkim from 1 August 2026. The trade route remained suspended from 2020 for six years because of the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions.

Nathu La Pass and Border Trade

Nathu La Pass is a mountain pass in East Sikkim on the India-China border. It was reopened for border trade in 2006 after a long closure and is linked to the historic Silk Road. Border trade through Nathu La is usually permitted for about six months each year, from May to November.

India-China Trade Routes in the Himalayas

Nathu La is one of the two designated border trade points between India and China. The second route is Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, which was also suspended in 2020. Both routes are used for limited cross-border trade under bilateral arrangements.

Diplomatic and Infrastructure Context

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited China on 27 July 2026 and met Vice Minister Sun Haiyan. The discussions covered bilateral relations and priority issues between the two countries. India has also been strengthening connectivity in Sikkim through the 45-km Sivok-Rangpo railway link, which is nearing completion, with plans for further extension towards Nathu La Pass.

Important Facts for Exams

• Nathu La Pass is located in East Sikkim and lies on the India-China border.
• Border trade through Nathu La was reopened in 2006 after earlier restrictions.
• Trade through Nathu La is generally allowed from May to November each year.
• Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand is the other India-China border trade route.

Border Trade Framework

India-China border trade is conducted through designated passes under bilateral arrangements and is separate from regular commercial trade. The trade routes are used by border communities and traders in frontier regions of Sikkim and Uttarakhand.