Tatopani Cargo Halts as Nepal-China Trade Faces New Squeeze
China has shut down cargo operations at the Tatopani customs point in Sindhupalchok from Bhadau 14. This comes right after floods knocked out the Rasuwagadhi border customs, leaving traders with fewer options just weeks before Dashain.
Tatopani customs chief Dipendra Prakash Giri says tourist vehicles can still cross the border, but cargo trucks and containers cannot. Chinese authorities say they're relocating their customs office near the Miteri bridge for maintenance work, and that's why the shutdown happened.
The last cargo to cross was 8 containers on Bhadau 12. Nothing has come through since. Passenger traffic keeps moving normally at Mustang's Korala border, but goods vehicles aren't getting cleared there either, according to chief Vidur Chudal.
Trucks Piling Up at Kerung
Rasuwagadhi customs remains destroyed by the floods. Around 176 cargo trucks are now stuck at Kerung on the Chinese side. Of these, 20–25 are already loaded with fruit, clothing, footwear, cosmetics and other goods meant for the Dashain, Tihar and winter season.
Traders have asked the government to work with Chinese authorities so perishable goods can be rerouted quickly, ideally through Tatopani. Customs officials, meanwhile, have suggested sending shipments via Korala once China grants clearance there. For now, both routes remain partly blocked, and goods meant for the festive season are stuck in between.
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Editorial policy.
