A North Korean alcohol producer with ties to the military applied to register its brand in Russia late last year, NK News analysis of official records shows, while two DPRK pharmaceutical firms are looking to sell sedatives and other medicines in the Russian market.

The recent applications are the latest sign of Pyongyang’s continuing efforts to bolster commercial ties with its neighbor, as the two countries ramp up military cooperation over the war in Ukraine.

Naegohyang Trading Company plans to sell kimchi, pastry, tobacco and alcoholic beverages (excluding beer) to Russian consumers, according to its application with Russia’s Federal Service