KATHMANDU: Containerized cargo from China has reached Nepal’s Chobhar Dry Port directly for the first time, marking a new step in Nepal-China trade.
The shipment consisted of four 40-foot containers transported via a combined rail and road route from Yiwu, China. The goods, including roll fabrics, curtains, speakers and cosmetics, were imported by Nepali companies Amber & Sons Enterprises, Omkar International Traders, PNP Enterprises and Sahims Traders.
Previously, Chinese goods entered Nepal through the Tatopani and Rasuwa border points before being transported to Chobhar for customs clearance. This time, however, customs procedures were completed directly at the dry port.
The journey from Yiwu to Chobhar took just 20 days. Earlier, it would take more than a month to bring a shipment from China.
As per the new rule introduced by the Ministry of Finance in October last year, goods entering the country through Tatopani and Rasuwagadhi customs can be taken directly to Chobhar dry port for customs clearance.
Ashish Gajurel, executive director of the Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Committee, hailed the direct rail-road route as a major advancement in Nepal-China trade. He expects more such shipments in the future.
According to Gajurel, exports to China can now be handled directly through the Chobhar dry port. “This arrangement will particularly help businesses in the Kathmandu Valley, enabling them to ship products directly to China, India, and other international markets from Chobhar,” he added.
