TASHIKURGAN, China: In the picturesque Tashikurgan Tajik autonomous county of Kashgar, located in China’s Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, an increasing number of Pakistani traders are establishing businesses to harness the region’s robust economic prospects.
Proximity to their homes and seamless integration into the local community make Tashikurgan an appealing destination for these entrepreneurs. Booming tourism further amplifies the advantages, bringing a steady stream of visitors and bolstering their commercial endeavors.
Murad Shah, a Pakistani jeweler, shares his positive experience, noting that his gemstone store in the county has seen a significant influx of tourists, reaching 100 to 200 visitors daily since resuming operations in April. He attributes this surge to China’s optimized COVID-19 policies and highlights the diverse culture and landscapes that attract tourists to the county. Shah expresses optimism about the future, emphasizing the rapid development and robust economy of China as key factors influencing his decision to open a store in the county.
For Pakistani merchant Nazar Karim Ali, the second-generation business owner, Tashikurgan feels like home after 32 years of engagement. His store offers a variety of products such as gemstones, jewelry, blankets, cotton bed sheets, clothes, and handicrafts – all originating from Pakistan. Ali underscores the cultural affinity he shares with the local population, facilitated by initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, making business operations smoother.
Situated on the Pamir Plateau, Tashikurgan is unique as the only county in China bordering three countries – Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. Boasting two land ports, it engages in frequent trade with neighboring nations, dealing in minerals, agricultural products, seafood, textiles, clothing, mechanical and electrical products, and household goods. The county’s strategic location and efficient transportation contribute to its economic vibrancy.
Tourism in Tashikurgan has witnessed a remarkable surge, with over 1.34 million tourist visits from January to late December, marking an 86 percent YoY increase. The county’s attractions, including the towering Mount Muztagata, Mount Qogir (K2), the world’s second-highest peak, and a 2,000-year-old ancient stone city, captivate visitors, contributing to the flourishing trade and economic opportunities embraced by both Chinese and Pakistani entrepreneurs.
