Monday, February 27, 2006
Nation » Northeast
India to open border trade with China, Myanmar, Bhutan http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/7454_1634270,00080005.htm
Indo-Asian News Service Itanagar, February 24, 2006
India is soon expected to begin formal border trade with China, Myanmar and Bhutan to boost the economy in the country's north-eastern region.
"The central government has agreed to open six border trading points along the international border and this would make our state the real gateway to Southeast Asia," Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Gegong Apang said.
No specific dates were given for the opening of border trade.
The tribal people in Arunachal Pradesh, a state of a little over one million people, wedged between China, Myanmar and Bhutan, have been carrying on informal trade with the neighbouring countries for ages.
"There is tremendous scope for business in the border areas and once formal trading begins it would definitely boost the region's economy," said H Lollen, Arunachal Pradesh's secretary for trade and commerce.
Following the signing of an agreement between India and Myanmar in 1995, border trade takes place on a daily basis at Moreh in Manipur.
Indian automobile components, fruits, grain, vegetables, textiles and cotton yarn find a strong demand in almost all the neighbouring countries.
In the other direction, Indian traders are interested in importing electronic gadgets, synthetic blankets, teak, gold, and semi-precious stones.
India and China are also likely to reopen the famed Silk Route for border trade between the two countries soon.
© HT Media Ltd. 2005.