Kathmandu — The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has urged China to help reopen the Tatopani customs border point to restore trade flow and reduce supply chain disruptions between the two countries.
FNCCI President Anjan Shrestha raised the issue during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Maoming, highlighting the importance of quick action to maintain the smooth movement of goods for businesses and consumers.
Shrestha said recent disruptions at key northern trade routes, including Rasuwagadhi-Kerung and Korala border points, have increased pressure on Nepal-China supply chains, especially ahead of the major festive shopping season.
The Chinese side responded positively to the request, expressing support for the early reopening of the Tatopani customs point following flood-related damage that affected the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung route.
Ambassador Zhang expressed concern over the loss of lives and economic damage caused by recent floods on both sides of the border. He said Nepali and Chinese officials are conducting joint inspections to restore damaged trade routes, while China has deployed teams to repair roads and critical infrastructure.
Flooding along the Bhotekoshi River damaged the bridge connecting the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung route, the local customs office, the dry port (ICD), and around 45 kilometres of the 145-kilometre highway linking Kathmandu with the Chinese border.
During the meeting, both sides also discussed strengthening Nepal-China business cooperation and organising a joint business forum involving private-sector representatives from both countries. The forum would focus on trade resilience, economic recovery and long-term commercial partnerships.
FNCCI Senior Vice President Sur Krishna Vaidya and Director General Dr. Gopal Prasad Tiwari also stressed the need for continued cooperation in trade, investment and economic engagement between Nepal and China.
