Residents of southern Chin State fear that closing the border trade routes between Paletwa Township and India could lead to shortages of basic food items and higher prices.

An Indian court ordered a two-month suspension of cross-border trade from February 16 until further notice, following the death of a driver from Mizoram while transporting goods to Myanmar.

The decision, issued by the Lawngtlai District Judge in Mizoram on security grounds, has sparked concern among residents of Paletwa and Matupi townships in southern Chin State.

“Because of the border trade closure, we could see shortages of basic food items like rice, oil, salt, and beans, which might push prices up. So far, though, prices haven’t increased significantly,” said a southern Chin State resident.

India has halted the movement of goods across the India-Myanmar border in both directions, in line with the court order, and stated that no foreign nationals will be allowed to cross without permission.

A 37-year-old driver from Mizoram went missing in Shinletwa Village, Paletwa Township, which is controlled by the Arakan Army (AA). Three days later, his body, which had multiple injuries, was discovered on February 15.

Following the incident, the Lawngtlai District-based Central Young Lai Association (YCLA) and the Lawngtlai Pickup Association announced a suspension of cross-border trade transport activities.

The currently closed trade routes are key pathways for transporting goods from Lawngtlai in southern Mizoram to Paletwa Township in Chin State and Arakan (Rakhine) State.