Economy
Information related to the North Korea economic sector
Cigarettes over medicine? Tobacco imports to North Korea lead trade with China
Imports of tobacco products far outstrip medicine, even as DPRK's population remains unvaccinated
October 20, 2021
What ‘economic development’ means to Kim Jong Un
The North Korean leader's ideas for the economy are much narrower and less transformative than is typically portrayed
October 18, 2021
As China burns through coal, North Korea steps in to fill the gap
Influx of illicit North Korean coal fuels concerns that shipments will continue even after Chinese energy crisis ends
October 15, 2021
North Korea’s official oil imports tick up but remain far below its needs
Sanctions and the pandemic have battered imports of refined petroleum, but smuggling may cover part of the gap
October 6, 2021
North Korea in September 2021: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from September 1, 2021 to September 30, 2021
October 1, 2021
North Korea-China trade may be on the up and up, says South Korean association
Trade group says some DPRK factories are seeing pre-pandemic demand levels, though COVID still a limiting factor
October 1, 2021
North Korea’s ambitious economic targets belie struggles on the ground
The DPRK’s latest five-year plan again sets unrealistic goals, as state media reports provide a veneer of success
September 29, 2021
North Korean disinfection zone still not operating despite activity: imagery
Reports previously suggested the zone would open in August to help kick-start trade with China
September 23, 2021
Chinese firm boasts of business and connections with North Korean entities
Firm allegedly helped DPRK acquire point of sale devices that experts say could strengthen state control over economy
September 10, 2021
North Korea in August 2021: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from August 1, 2021 to August 31, 2021
September 3, 2021
