India might be suffering USD 47 billion trade deficit with China, but it is making a big splash in this border town with several shops using 'Made in India' sign boards and traders cashing on border trade through the Nathu La pass.
Many shopkeepers in this small town in the centre of Tibet, who import Indian handicrafts, spices and textiles, use sign boards highlighting 'Made in India goods available'. The India-China trade through Nathu La, which is just 50 km from this town, is flourishing though it is still just around Rs 17 crore.
China has opened a second route through the Himalayan pass of Nathu La in Sikkim, 4,000 metres above sea level, for the first batch of Kailash-Manasarovar pilgrims. Chinese ambassador to India Le Yucheng, who for the first time visited <g data-gr-id="12">Sikkm</g> and crossed over through the Nathu La border point on Sunday to receive the pilgrims, met Sikkim CM Pawan Kumar Chamling and discussed steps to increase the trade.