Khunjerab Pass becomes operational for year-round trade

GILGIT: The Khunjerab Pass, a pivotal trade route between Pakistan and China, has officially transitioned from a seasonal operation to a year-round trade service, authorities confirmed on Monday.

Customs officials clarified that the border is exclusively open for cargo services, with tourism and passenger transit remaining suspended. “The border is opened for cargo services only and closed for tourism and passenger services,” a Customs official told HUM News English.

“The Government of the People’s Republic of China has formally concurred to the year-round opening of the Khunjerab Pass. Consequently, operations of the Khunjerab-Sost border crossing are henceforth expanded from April 1st to November 30th each year to year-round operations as stipulated under Article 2(3) of the ‘Agreement between China and Pakistan on Border Ports and their Management System (2013)’,” reads a memorandum dated November 29 issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The ministry asked all relevant authorities/agencies, including the FIA, FWO, NHA, and Pakistan Customs to continue their operations at the port with effect from December 1, 2024.

Located at an elevation of nearly 5,000 meters above sea level, the Khunjerab Pass serves as a critical trade station connecting China and Pakistan, facilitating access to South Asia and Europe. Previously, the border was operational only from April to November due to extreme weather conditions, shutting down during the winter months.

The decision to make the pass operational year-round stems from an agreement reached during the visit of former caretaker prime minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar to China in October last year. However, logistical challenges and severe weather delayed its implementation until now.

Officials of the Hunza Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Monday welcomed the first bus arriving from China after the two countries decided to open the Khunjerab Border for year-round access.

Muhammad Iqbal, President of the Gilgit-Baltistan Importers and Exporters Association, welcomed the development, emphasizing its potential to bolster trade between the two countries. “We have been advocating for this for a long time, and it’s heartening to see it finally implemented,” he remarked. While acknowledging the border’s current focus on cargo services, Iqbal expressed hope for passenger travel to be permitted in the future.

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“There are discussions between the two governments to extend the duration of the border pass from six months to three years. This would be a remarkable improvement, especially if passenger travel is also allowed,” he added.

Deputy General Secretary of the association, Afsar Jan, noted that year-round trade would enhance economic stability for local businesses. “Previously, we operated on a six-month trade cycle, relying on those earnings for the rest of the year. Now, with winter exports, particularly dry fruits and herbs, we can meet the growing demand in Xinjiang, China, where harsh winters increase the need for these products,” Jan explained.

A notification for year-round operations was issued in February this year; however, the implementation was delayed due to the lack of certain facilities, including heating, he said, adding that now, the port is fully operational.