Khunjerab Pass reopens for Pak-China trade after four months hiatus

Pakistan-China iconic border crossing Khunjerab Pass has been reopened for bilateral trade and tourism on April 1 after four months of closure.

With the end of the winter season, Pakistan and China mark resumption of the new trade season at Khunjerab Pass which lies at an elevation of 4,693 meters above sea level, and is strategic position connecting both countries.

To celebrate the beginning of the new trade season, a ceremony was organized. Pakistani trade firm along with local politicians, and business community members welcomed trade convoys from Xinjiang. The event included an opening and flag hoisting ceremony, symbolizing the restoration of trade and tourism links between iron brothers.

Revered personalities including Javed Hussain, a former member of the GB assembly; ex-provincial minister Muhammad Baqir and other dignitaries attended the event.

Following the ceremony, 15 containers of commercial goods entered Pakistan from China on the first day.

Khunjrab Pass operates for travel and trade from April through November each year. For the unversed, more than 400 containers passed through Khunjerab border into Pakistan, raking in revenue of nearly Rs5.50 billion in customs duties for the government.

Khunjerab Pass is strategically important, as it serving as the only land port connecting Pakistan, and China. Besides facilitating trade, it also plays a crucial role in promoting tourism between the two countries.