MUSTANG: The resumption of cross-border trade through the Korala checkpoint along the Nepal–China border has opened fresh avenues of business for Gandaki and Lumbini provinces, according to local entrepreneurs.
With the Tatopani and Rasuwagadhi checkpoints closed due to floods, landslides, and delayed road repairs, Nepali traders have begun importing Chinese goods via Mustang and Myagdi, transporting them onward to Kathmandu. The Korala route, initially opened in November 2023 for residents of Upper Mustang only, has now been expanded for commercial trade after nearly two years.
“The Kaligandaki Corridor and Korala checkpoint are creating new business prospects in the Dhaulagiri region, not only for imports and exports with China but also for marketing Nepali products,” said Subin Shrestha, president of the Myagdi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He noted that around 300 containers had already reached Korala via Beni and Jomsom, with another 1,500 containers expected to bring Dashain goods.
Ramesh Khadka, customs officer at Korala, confirmed that traders diverted consignments to Korala after disruptions at Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani. “Containers carrying goods for Dashain have been rerouted here, and customs operations are now fully functional with new infrastructure, internet, and electricity,” he said.
Since its reopening, Korala has facilitated the import of 151 electric vehicles from China. Nepal, in turn, has exported statues, textiles, and bamboo stools to the Chinese side. Around 55 containers carrying garments for the festival season have already arrived, with more expected in the coming days.
Situated at an altitude of 4,700 meters, the checkpoint was equipped last year with a new customs building built by the provincial government. The resumption of operations has provided much-needed relief to businesses facing shortages of raw materials and consumer goods during the festive season.
Both the Rasuwagadhi crossing, shut since June due to floods and landslides, and Tatopani, blocked for 46 days by road delays in Sindhupalchok, remain closed.
“Korala is proving to be a vital alternative route at a critical time,” traders said, highlighting its growing role in Nepal–China commerce.
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