Mapping No. 61
Border Trade Routes: Old, New, and Potentials
After the trade route in Northern Shan came to a halt, the State Administration Council (SAC) attempted to establish a new route. Following Operation 1027, trade was conducted through Kengtung station in eastern Shan State to Mongla gate, controlled by Mongla Special Region—4 (NDAA-ESS). The SAC seems to have considered the new eastern Shan route, centered around Kengtung, where two Asian Highways intersect, to trade with China, Thailand, and Laos. This route had been considered since 2019 and is also linked to the regional cooperation initiatives of the Mekong countries. Furthermore, there is potential to establish a trade route with China by crossing the Mekong River from Wan Pong port to Guan Lei port in China and then connecting to Kenglet through Laos.
ISP Mapping No.61