Shimla, Aug. 6 -- The Kinnaur Indo-China Trade Association on Wednesday suspended Shipki La border trade, demanding Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) exemption for goods imported through the route.

The decision was taken during an emergency meeting of the association held on Wednesday after receiving communication from customs department regarding the applications of IGST on imports through the traditional route.

"While customs duty has been exempted under Government of India Notification of July 23, 1996, to encourage and sustain traditional border trade, the imposition of IGST has substantially increased the financial burden on traders. Considering the limited value of trade, difficult terrain, transportation by mules, short tr...