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Nathu La Pass Reopens, Restoring Trade for 600 Traders

8/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

India’s Sikkim state and China’s Tibet region reopened the Nathu La Pass on Saturday, the first opening since 2020.
Around 600 Sikkim traders regained a livelihood that depended on the route.
Before its 2020 closure, the pass exported Indian rice, flour and tea and imported Chinese yak tails and wool.
Diplomats said the reopening reflects a recalibration of ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

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Story summary

India’s Sikkim state and China’s Tibet region reopened the Nathu La Pass on Saturday, the first opening since 2020.
Around 600 Sikkim traders regained a livelihood that depended on the route.
Before its 2020 closure, the pass exported Indian rice, flour and tea and imported Chinese yak tails and wool.
Diplomats said the reopening reflects a recalibration of ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours.