China has reopened border trading gates with Kachin State, controlled by the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), but is currently allowing only food and construction materials, according to Colonel Naw Bu, spokesperson for the KIA and its political wing, the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO).

“Essential food products can now be imported from China, along with construction materials like cement and iron. However, China still bans fuel, weapon parts, and electronic goods, which cannot be brought into Kachin State yet,” he told MNJ.

With the reopening of border gates, people on the Myanmar side can now legally travel to China for extended visits and medical treatment, but there is still no clarity on work permits, locals reported.

The border gates were not closed by the KIA but unilaterally by China, and China did not make any deal with the KIA regarding their reopening, Colonel Naw Bu confirmed.

China officially reopened all border gates in Kan Paik Ti, Lweje (Loije), Pang War, Phimaw, Manwing, Onglong, and Laiza at 11:59 pm on October 24, Colonel Naw Bu added.

Because China had closed the border, fuel and construction materials couldn’t be imported, causing prices to rise in Waingmaw and Myitkyina townships in Kachin State.

China had been closing its border gates since last year. As an exception, it allowed the import of tissue culture bananas and rare earths from Myanmar.

During last year’s military operation, the KIA successfully captured all the border trading posts along the Kachin State–China border.