Nepal's Kathmandu Post, September 25 reported that the Rizhi-Naiqiong border checkpoint located at Kora La in Upper Mustang was fully operational on September 15, opening a new channel for bilateral trade. This checkpoint is one of six determined by the China-Nepal transit transport agreement in 2016 and was officially inaugurated in November 2023. Previously, the main channels between China and Nepal, the Gyirong and Zhongmu border checkpoints, were forced to close for nearly two months due to landslides and floods, causing about 1,400-1,500 containers carrying imported festival goods to be stranded in China, leading to significant losses for traders. The operation of the Rizhi-Naiqiong checkpoint provides a critical channel for the stranded cargo, alleviating the difficulties faced by traders. According to data from the Nepali Customs, over 140 freight containers and 230 electric vehicles have completed customs clearance into Nepal since its launch on the 15th, generating approximately Rs 680 million (Rs 6.8 billion). However, there are still 168 Chinese freight containers and 309 electric vehicles awaiting customs clearance (Editor's note: According to China's customs statistics, since the first connection of the Xigaze International Land Port with the Rizhi checkpoint on September 6, 2025, as of September 23, within 17 days, the export value of this checkpoint has reached 113 million yuan). Analysts point out that although this checkpoint faces higher transportation costs due to its greater distance, as well as challenges such as higher altitude and weaker infrastructure, it has a lower risk of geological disasters and more convenient customs procedures, and is expected to develop into a stable channel for Sino-Nepal trade, becoming an important hub for mutual benefit in trade. Data shows that in the fiscal year 2024-25, Nepal's total trade with China amounted to Rs 343.73 billion (Rs 343.73 billion), with imports reaching Rs 341.10 billion (Rs 341.10 billion). Analysis points out that given that nearly 19% of Nepal's imported goods come from China, the Nepalese government should prioritize the development of northern trade infrastructure. It is also reported that the Zhongmu checkpoint was reopened on the evening of the 22nd.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1844289413956608/

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