Guwahati, July 21 -- Border trade through the historic Nathula Pass along the India-China frontier is set to resume on August 1, 2026, ending a suspension of more than six years and offering a significant boost to Sikkim's border economy, according to highly placed sources.

Situated in East Sikkim, Nathula served as a vital trading corridor on the ancient Silk Route for centuries. Cross-border commerce through the pass was revived in 2006 after remaining shut since the 1962 India-China war. However, trade was suspended again in 2020 following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision to reopen the route stems from the 24th round of the India-China Special Representatives' dialogue held in August 2025. The meeting, co-chaired b...