Metog county in Xizang transforms from isolated outpost to commerce hub

The once-secluded county of Metog in the Xizang autonomous region has transformed from an isolated outpost into a fast-growing hub of commerce in recent years, according to local reports. The shift follows improvements to transport links and the rapid expansion of e-commerce, which have helped bring the area's distinctive products to markets far beyond its mountainous borders.

Metog was long known as the "isolated island" of the plateau due to its challenging terrain. Until 2013, when a national road was completed, it was the last county in China without road access. The arrival of a national road connection marked a turning point, ending decades of geographical isolation and laying the groundwork for new industries to take hold.

Logistics advances have accelerated again in the past year. In late 2024, several e-commerce platforms waived logistics transfer fees for remote areas, effectively bringing Metog into China's "free-delivery zone". The policy shift has opened the door for the region's specialty products — most notably its handcrafted stone pots — to reach customers nationwide.

Local entrepreneur Wangmo, who launched an online store selling stone pots in 2017, said her business has flourished as shipping policies have improved. "My orders now come from everywhere in China — the farthest I've delivered to is Taiwan and Hong Kong," she told CCTV's finance channel. Monthly sales at her shop on the popular platform Pinduoduo now exceed 100 pots.

The boom has reshaped her business and daily life. With reliable logistics, she has increasingly turned to online shopping herself. Her newly completed home, she said, is filled with appliances purchased on the internet. "It's so much easier to sell stone pots now — but just as important, I can buy whatever I need and have it delivered straight to my door for free. It's amazing."