India-Arakan trade routes fully reopen after two-month closure

By Admin 20 Feb 2026

DMG Newsroom

20 February 2026, Paletwa, Chin State

All trade routes between India and Arakan State, which had been suspended following the death of an Indian truck driver, were fully reopened on the morning of February 20, according to local merchants.

The reopening of trade routes in India’s Lawngtlai District followed negotiations between officials of the Arakan Army (AA) and authorities from Lawngtlai District.

“Following discussions between the Arakan Army and the Central Young Lai Association (CYLA) yesterday, the trade route was reopened this morning. Merchants from Lawngtlai and other districts have already resumed trading activities,” an Arakanese merchant said.

The Indian side had closed the route for two months after an Indian driver transporting goods died in Shinlatwa Village, Paletwa Township, on February 12.

Trade routes in India’s Siaha District were reopened on February 17. With the reopening of border gates in Lawngtlai District on February 20, full trade operations have now resumed.

Merchants urged authorities to avoid similar closures, citing the importance of the route to Arakan State’s economy.

“To prevent future closures of such economically vital routes and avoid further disruptions, authorities need to ensure proper management. At the same time, merchants and drivers must comply with the regulations issued by the authorities,” a border merchant in Arakan State said.

Arakan State, which is currently facing the Myanmar military regime’s “four cuts” blockade, relies heavily on trade routes from India. Frequent closures have had significant local impacts.