The Chinese authorities closed the Manhkar Border Gate linking China to the United Wa State Army (UWSA) controlled Namtit Town in northern Shan State on 24 August 2024.

Prior to the closure the Chinese authorities had started carrying out more stringent checks at Manhkar Border Gate. They also increased checks at the Pangkham Border Gate in Pangkham Town and the Shawba Border Gate in Saungpha Town, both of which are also under the control of the UWSA. Currently those two gates remain open.

A trader said: “Inspections have become more stringent since the beginning of August. On 24 August, it [Manhkar Border Gate] was completely closed. Even the remaining Sophar and Pangkham gates are experiencing very stringent inspections, and there are reports that these gates may [soon] be closed as well."

The closure of Manhkar Border Gate has led to shortages of food and supplies, that are normally imported from China, in Namtit Town and the surrounding areas. It has caused particular problems for people on the Myanmar side who need to go to China for medical treatment or who rely on medicines from China.

The aforementioned trader said: “The closure of the gate has created difficulties for those engaged in business within the Wa region and for those relying on goods coming from the Wa region. The public is increasingly concerned about their basic needs for food and clothing. There are also worries about what we will do if we need medical treatment.”

Since the third week of July 2024 the Chinese authorities have been closing border gates on the China Myanmar border. These include: the junta-controlled Chinshwehaw Gate in Laukkai Township; the Panghseng, and Kyinnsankyawt gates in Muse Township, both of which are controlled by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA); and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) controlled Nawngtawng trade gate in Namkham Township.

At a 14 August 2024 meeting in Naypyitaw, with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced that the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) would conduct three days of live fire exercises in China’s Ruili City from 27 August. He said that the military exercises, which will take place just across the border from Muse Town in Shan State, will help to maintain stability and security in the border regions.