India and China Resume Direct Flights After Five-Year Suspension

Strategic Insights -

India and China have resumed direct flights on October 26, marking a significant step towards rebuilding relations between the two Asian giants. The move is seen as a vital step for trade and a symbolic gesture of goodwill. The neighbours, although still strategic rivals, have eased ties gradually since a deadly Himalayan border clash in 2020. India's government views the resumption of flights as a means to boost "people-to-people contact" and aid the "gradual normalisation of bilateral exchanges".

Key Takeaways:

  • The resumption of direct flights between India and China comes after a five-year suspension, marking a significant step towards rebuilding relations between the two neighbours.
  • India's government believes the move will boost "people-to-people contact" and aid the "gradual normalisation of bilateral exchanges".
  • The neighbours remain strategic rivals, competing for regional influence, but ties have eased gradually since a deadly Himalayan border clash in 2020.
  • India's largest commercial carrier, IndiGo, is set to operate the first daily flight to mainland China, departing Kolkata at 10pm on Sunday for Guangzhou.
  • India's eastern port city of Kolkata has centuries-old ties with China, with Chinese migrants arriving in the 19th century as traders.
  • The thaw between New Delhi and Beijing followed meetings between their leaders in Russia last year and in China in August.
  • India runs a significant trade deficit with Beijing, with imports from China surging to over $11 billion last month, up 16% compared with September 2024.
  • Exports from India to China were $1.47 billion, modest by comparison, but up 34% year-on-year.

Statistics:

  • Over 500 monthly services were halted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Imports from China surged to over $11 billion last month, up 16% compared with September 2024.
  • Exports from India to China were $1.47 billion, modest by comparison, but up 34% year-on-year.
  • Direct flights between the two countries were suspended for five years.
  • The Indian government has banned hundreds of Chinese apps, including TikTok.

Sources:

  • AFP - Agencies
  • The Indian Express
  • The Chinese Embassy in India
  • Indian Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata