Taklakot trade resumes, but China tightens control over Manasarovar access

Trade has resumed between Nepal's Bajhang district and China's Taklakot, with local authorities issuing entry permits for traders. Since mid-May, 57 residents have obtained these permits, allowing them to travel through the Urai Bhanjyang border crossing. Of these, 31 were renewals and 26 were new applicants, with permits valid for one year.

Saipal Rural Municipality is coordinating group travel to facilitate this trade, issuing a public notice for residents to register by July 21. Applicants must provide citizenship certificates, border passes, and details of goods for sale. Chairman Man Bahadur Bohara stated that Chinese officials in Tibet prefer organized, larger groups, a shift from previous individual or small-group travel. The municipality will brief traders on China's updated rules and customs before facilitating their collective border crossing.

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Officials in Tibet have told us not to send individuals or small groups as we did in the past. They want traders to enter in larger, organised groups.

Bajhang residents have long-standing trade connections with Taklakot, selling goods like Himalayan herbs, timber, and handicrafts. They return with essentials such as rice, flour, tea, alcohol, salt, and clothing. However, China's post-COVID restrictions have halted the traditional pilgrimage to Lake Manasarovar for seven years, impacting religious practices. Additionally, local herders report increased restrictions on grazing livestock in Tibetan pastures, with some alleging harassment by Chinese security personnel. These tightened controls have caused frustration within the community.

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We get good prices in Taklakot for herbs, traditional wooden utensils and handicrafts such as bamboo baskets and trays.