The three-day 28th Nepal-China Border Customs Meeting, which concluded in Kathmandu on Thursday, ended with a commitment to reopen Tatopani trade points as soon as possible. The trade point has remained shut since the April earthquake, hitting Nepal-China trade.
Speaking at a joint press meet on Thursday, Deputy Director General of Department of Customs Damodar Regmi said both sides have agreed to start a feasibility study of seven new trade routes. "Similarly, we have agreed to start feasibility study of other possible trade routes," he added.
The two sides have agreed to develop Kimathanka of Sankhuwasabha, Korala of Mustang, Olangchunggola of Taplejung, Larke of Gorkha, Yari of Humla, Lamabagar of Dolakha and Mugu as alternative trade routes.
Similarly, Nepal and China have agreed to make improve communication and ensure better coordination among customs officials deputed at border points for smooth bilateral trade. They have agreed to form a joint team for effective operation of all customs points between the countries.
The Rasuwagadhi trade point, which reopened on October 15 after a gap of around six months following the April earthquake, is the only operation trade route between the two countries at present. Recently, Nepali tankers brought first lot of fuel grant announced by China from this trading point.
The agreement to opening alternative trade routes between Nepal and China has been viewed as an important development as a time when the country is reeling under acute shortage of daily essentials due to Indian blockade.
Deputy Director General of Lhasa Customs Long Chengwei led the Chinese delegation in the meeting.
A press note issued by the Department of Customs said China has expressed commitment to complete construction of Larcha Dry Port in Sindhupalchowk and initiate construction of dry port at Timure of Rasuwa very soon. "Chinese officials have agreed to take initiative for harmonization of office hours of customs offices of two countries at border points," the press note added.
Nepal has also requested China to accept quarantine certificates issued by Nepali authority. Responding to Nepali proposal, Chinese officials said they would start discussion on the issue with concerned officials very soon.
On Nepal's request to allow Nepali traders, trucks and truck drivers to travel to Kerung without visa, the Chinese officials said they would make needful arrangement.
Likewise, both the sides have agreed to request their respective central banks to set grounds for managing trade through banking channel and allow opening of Letter of Credit for trading. Both sides will also share information for controlling illegal trade.
The Chinese authorities have also agreed to request Chinese companies to start including product information on products to be exported to Nepali in Nepali or English. They have agreed to include information like manufacturing date, expiry date and product ingredients, among others, in product labels.
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