NewsPolar AI
- 1,109 electric vehicles imported via Korala Pass
- 965 cleared through customs
- 144 pending inspection
- 375 cargo containers fully cleared and dispatched
Mustang, Oct 2: The Nechung Customs Office at Korala Pass on the Nepal–Tibet northern border has collected revenue worth Rs 2.2 billion within two weeks of its full operation. According to officials, this is the highest-ever revenue collection in the history of Mustang Customs.
The customs office, which came into full operation on Sept 16, 2025, reported an average daily collection of over Rs 136.6 million. In previous years, revenue from this customs point was limited to just Rs 1–1.5 million annually, mostly from household goods imported by Upper Mustang residents.
However, with the Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani trade routes blocked due to floods, landslides, and river erosion, trade activities through Korala Pass have surged. A significant share of the revenue comes from the import of electric vehicles (EVs) and goods containers from China.
Key Customs Data:
- 1,109 electric vehicles imported via Korala Pass
- 965 cleared through customs
- 144 pending inspection
- 375 cargo containers fully cleared and dispatched
Customs Chief Ramesh Khadka confirmed the record-breaking figures, adding that the surge demonstrates Korala’s growing importance as a trade hub.
The reopening of Korala for full-scale operations has boosted local trade, employment, and income opportunities in Mustang. According to Tashi Norbu Gurung, Chairperson of Lomanthang Rural Municipality, local youth and drivers are earning significantly by assisting in loading/unloading goods and driving imported EVs out of the customs yard.
“Trade activities have revived the local economy, and Mustang is witnessing unprecedented business momentum due to the Korala border point,” Gurung said.
The customs office has suspended operations for the Dashain festival until Oct 7 (Asoj 21), after which regular customs clearance will resume, informed Deputy Customs Officer Uttam Rai.
