Northern Trade Links Falter as Tatopani Becomes Latest Border Point to Face Disruption

Trade through Nepal’s northern border points with China has been severely affected, with imports from the Tatopani crossing also coming to a standstill following the closure of the Rasuwagadhi checkpoint due to flooding.

Customs officials said importers have significantly reduced shipments through Tatopani since mid-July after recurring landslides triggered by rainfall repeatedly blocked roads on the Nepali side. Traders have decided to avoid transporting goods during the monsoon season altogether.

According to Tatopani Customs, which used to collect up to Rs 150–200 million in daily revenue, it is now struggling to raise even Rs 25 million.

“Currently, only 10–12 trucks are cleared daily, mostly carrying fruits and garments,” said Tatopani Customs Officer Surya Prasad Pathak. He added that importers appear to have postponed shipments due to the frequent road closures, resulting in minimal activity at the checkpoint.

“There are around 30–40 trucks in the yard. Some vehicles that have received customs clearance remain parked due to the repeated roadblocks,” Pathak said.

In the last fiscal year, goods worth Rs 50.39 billion were imported via Tatopani. Meanwhile, trade through Rasuwagadhi remains completely halted. Customs officials said reopening the checkpoint anytime soon is unlikely due to extensive damage caused by floods on the Chinese side, including to bridges and other infrastructure.

“Importing goods through either of the two northern checkpoints has become extremely difficult,” said Prabhu Adhikari, operator of PNP Enterprises, which imports goods via Rasuwagadhi. “Orders are being delayed as shipments would remain stranded on the route for a long time. During the monsoon, importing goods is nearly impossible.”

Adhikari also stressed the need for the government to create a conducive environment for the smooth supply of goods ahead of the Dashain festival.