China reopened the Hsin Phyu border gate in Muse Township, northern Shan State, yesterday morning, enabling the import of goods into Myanmar, according to local residents.

“Potatoes and a variety of goods are now being imported. However, it’s unclear when other items will follow,” said a resident in Muse town.

Videos circulating on social media showed Chinese authorities permitting delivery vehicles and motorbikes, which had been stranded in Kyegaung town, China, for over a week, to cross into Myanmar.

Previously, on November 9, the Shweli (Ruili) People's Government Gate Office announced a suspension of manageable-scale cross-border transportation of goods via the Muse-Kyegaung border gates, effective November 11. 

The suspension restricted the use of passenger vehicles, motorcycles, tricycles, and hand carts for transporting goods into China via the Hsin Phyu Gate.

The Muse-Kyegaung border region has three main gates: Hsin Phyu, Man Wein, and Nandaw. 

Of these, Hsin Phyu Gate is known for accommodating the largest volume of manageable-scale goods, Man Wein Gate is designated for trucks carrying commodities, and Nandaw Gate handles pedestrian traffic.

The reopening of the Hsin Phyu border gate marks a significant development, particularly for manageable-scale trade between the two countries.