November 29, 2023
News

North Korea’s trade with China jumps to highest level since April COVID outbreak

Uptick aligns with DPRK’s self-reported decline in cases, though total trade still far below pre-pandemic peak

North Korea’s trade with China last month jumped to the highest level since the DPRK’s COVID-19 outbreak began, Chinese customs data shows, as authorities appeared to ease restrictions on the flow of goods as case numbers declined in July.

According to China’s General Administration of Customs, North Korea imported $59.7 million worth of goods from China last month, compared to just $19.3 million in June. Meanwhile, exports jumped from just over $2 million to $12 million during the same period.