Winter is intense. Clothes from north have been stuck at border. Traders feel chill
Summary
Trade between Nepal and China faces disruption due to delayed operation of northern border points and construction delays of the Miteri Bridge, causing winter goods shipments to remain stuck and impacting traders ahead of the festive season.
Key Points
- Nepal's northern border points remain partially closed five months after floods damaged the Nepal-China Friendship Bridge, hampering trade flows.
- Traders complain of an unofficial blockade by China, citing minimal goods carrier flow through the Tatopani border and slow progress constructing a temporary Bailey Bridge.
- Winter garments and other goods ordered by Nepali traders are stuck across the border, causing financial losses and storage challenges due to delays.
- Despite disruptions, Nepal's trade deficit with China has grown substantially with increased imports and declining exports during the current fiscal year.
