No restrictions on household goods via Korala Border, says Mustang Customs

POKHARA: The Mustang Customs Office has clarified that there are no restrictions on importing household goods through the Korala border crossing.

The clarification came during a trade promotion discussion held in Lomanthang on Friday, jointly organized by Lomanthang and Lo-Ghekar Damodarkunda Rural Municipalities.

Speaking at the meeting, Mustang Customs Office Chief Karbir Gaire stated that although the border is open, limited manpower and infrastructure have made it difficult to properly collect revenue and manage trade.

He added that the government has already made provisions to allow the import of household goods for business purposes, and the customs office has not created any barriers to such trade.

However, Chief Gaire expressed concern that the lack of customs infrastructure could lead to an increase in illegal activities.

Mustang Chief District Officer Bishnu Prasad Bhusal emphasized the need for the Customs Office to take active steps to facilitate trade through the Korala checkpoint.

The meeting, which brought together representatives from the customs and immigration offices, local administration, security agencies, and local traders, concluded with several key decisions aimed at promoting trade through the Korala border. It was decided that cross-border trade through the Korala crossing would be formally initiated, and efforts would be made to coordinate with relevant agencies to address the challenges faced by local traders.

In addition, the meeting resolved to ensure the full operation of the Customs and Immigration Offices at the border. Participants also emphasized the need to establish additional supporting offices to strengthen customs operations and oversight.

A shared commitment was expressed to make trade more accessible and efficient for traders in the border regions of Upper Mustang.Although the Korala border has been officially open to Upper Mustang residents since November 13, 2023, trade has stalled over the past five months.

The disruption followed the seizure of illegal electronic cigarettes last December, prompting stricter monitoring by the customs office.

Before the disruption, smooth trade had taken place for over a year.