KATHMANDU: Landslides along the Tatopani border crossing have stranded dozens of vehicles imported from China, disrupting preparations for the upcoming NIMA Mobility Expo and delaying deliveries for several automobile brands.

Persistent landslides along the Tatopani trade route have halted vehicle imports from China, leaving dozens of automobiles stranded and affecting exhibitors preparing for the upcoming NIMA Mobility Expo.

Former president of the Nepal Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), Dhruva Thapa, said the disruption is caused by road blockages rather than customs clearance. He noted that around 10 to 12 Maxus vehicles remain stuck on the Chinese side after fresh landslides damaged sections of the highway.

According to Thapa, one shipment had already entered Nepal before the road was closed, while a second batch was forced to stop en route. The delay has also prevented the arrival of a new Maxus model scheduled to debut at the auto exhibition.

Several other importers have been affected, although some companies have rerouted shipments through the Kerung–Rasuwagadhi border. Laxmi E-Mobility recently imported BAIC’s new BJ30E hybrid SUV via the alternative route for display at the expo.

Customs Director General Yamlal Bhusal said the problem stems entirely from weather-related road damage, not customs procedures. Authorities are coordinating with the Department of Roads and technical teams to restore access and safely move stranded vehicles as soon as weather conditions permit.