The Chinese government surprised North Korea watchers, traders and even its own steel mills when, on February 18 it announced it would not import any of the DPRK's coal for the remainder of the year.
The announcement appears to mark a drastic shift in policy, with Beijing historically reluctant to implement changes that could trigger wider instability within the DPRK. While a recent statement from China's Foreign Ministry implied its traders had already hit a dollar value quota outlined in UN Resolution 2321, if the embargo is implemented fully the DPRK's coal industry now faces a very lean ten months.
The Chinese government surprised North Korea watchers, traders and even its own steel mills when, on February 18 it announced it would not import any of the DPRK's coal for the remainder of the year.
The announcement appears to mark a drastic shift in policy, with Beijing historically reluctant to implement changes that could trigger wider instability within the DPRK. While a recent statement from China's Foreign Ministry implied its traders had already hit a dollar value quota outlined in UN Resolution 2321, if the embargo is implemented fully the DPRK's coal industry now faces a very lean ten months.
Become a member for less than $4 per week.
Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now
All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.