Arunachal plans barter trade with neighbouring countries

Itanagar, Sep 02 (UNI) The Arunachal Pradesh government is planning to start barter trade with the South East Asian countries through various border trade routes for economic development of the state.

Speaking to mediapersons at Solung festival here yesterday, state Trade and Commerce Minister Lombo Tayeng said the government would have its share of trade once the borders re-open with Bhutan, China and Myanmar following India's 'Look East' policy and improved bilateral relations with the neighbouring countries.

''Though trade with China, Tibet, Bhutan and Myanmar is yet to begin officially, unofficial barter trade with these countries are on since time immemorial,'' the minister said, adding he would plead the Centre to make barter trade officially through Arunachal.

Replying to question about the items selected for trade with these countries, Mr Tayeng said that the Centre has already approved 27 items for trade through Nathula in Sikkim and he would request for inclusion of more items for Arunachal, as the state has huge border trade potential.

''Arunachal has rich cultural heritage, handicrafts, handlooms besides, vast natural resources and scenic beauty. The state can flourish in sectors like tourism and trade and commerce,'' he pointed out.

However, the people must prepare themselves to reap the benefits of the border trade, he added.

Chief Minister Gegong Apang had laid the foundation stone of Border Trade Centre (BTC) at Nampong under Changlang district on March this year. Bumla near the Indo-China border area and Khenjamani in Indo-Tibet border area in Tawang district, are being developed in warfooting by the government for reopening border trade with Tibet and China.

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