'Made in India' making big splash in Chinese border town

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 today 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 Sikkm and crossed over through the Nathu La border point yesterday to receive the pilgrims, met Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling and discussed steps to increase the trade.

Speaking to the Indian media here, Le said the present volume of over USD 70 billion bilateral trade is inadequate and does not represents the potential. He said the trade is set to grow with more Chinese investment in India.