The decision to keep the Khunjerab Pass open year-round is expected to strengthen economic ties between China and Pakistan, enhancing trade flows and cultural exchanges.
The Khunjerab Pass is a critical component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which aims to facilitate trade and investment through extensive infrastructure development.
The year-round operation of the Khunjerab Pass may lead to increased trade volumes between China and Pakistan, potentially boosting local economies.
Enhanced security measures and joint exercises between China and Pakistan may improve safety for workers involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects.
Khunjerab Pass Opens Year-Round for Enhanced Trade Between China and Pakistan
In a significant development for international trade, the Khunjerab Pass, the only border crossing between China and Pakistan, will remain open year-round for the first time in history. Previously, this high-altitude crossing was closed during the harsh winter months due to extreme cold and snowfall, limiting its operation to a seasonal schedule from April to November. This year marks a practical experiment to keep the crossing operational continuously, facilitating the movement of citizens and cargo trucks.
The Khunjerab Pass is not just a border crossing; it serves as a vital gateway connecting western China with South and Central Asia, as well as the Arabian Sea. The region experiences winter temperatures that can plummet to 40 degrees below zero, posing challenges for year-round operations. However, the decision to keep the pass open was made following an agreement between Beijing and Islamabad during the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation last year.
Since the beginning of April, customs data indicates a surge in border crossings, with over 50,000 individuals and more than 11,000 vehicles transporting approximately 40,900 tons of goods recorded by the end of October. This represents a significant increase of 42.6% in vehicle crossings and 72.7% in goods compared to the previous year. The trade through Khunjerab includes textiles, agricultural products, and consumer goods, highlighting its importance in bilateral trade relations.
