Products Imported from China to North Korea

In the calendar year of 2023, China exported goods worth US$894 million to North Korea. Among the main exports from China to North Korea were Soybean Oil (US$48.8 million), Rubber Tires (US$44.3 million), Packaged Medicaments (US$40.8 million), Light Rubberized Knitted Fabric (US$34.03 million) and Rice (US$33.21 million). Over the span of 28 years, China’s exports to North Korea have grown steadily at an annualized rate of 2.3%, rising from US$484 million in 1995 to US$894 million in 2023.

List of All Products That Were Imported from China to North Korea

The table below presents a comprehensive list of all commodities that were exported from China to North Korea in 2023, categorized by product types, and ranked by their trade values in US dollars.

Tips to use this table

1. Identifying High-Demand Products: Analyze the top-ranked products to identify which items have the highest trade values. These products are likely to be in high demand in the North Korea market, presenting lucrative opportunities for importers and resellers.
2. Niche Market Exploration: Explore products with significant trade values that may not be commonly known. These niche products could represent untapped market segments with less competition, allowing resellers and importers to carve out a unique position in the market.

Last Updated: April, 2024

Note #1: The HS4 code, or Harmonized System 4-digit code, is part of the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS). It’s an internationally standardized system for classifying goods in international trade.

Note #2: This table is regularly updated on an annual basis. Therefore, we encourage you to revisit frequently to access the latest information regarding trade between China and North Korea.

Trade Agreements between China and North Korea

China and North Korea share a complex and multifaceted relationship, characterized by strong political ties and strategic economic cooperation. Due to the political nature and the sensitivity surrounding North Korea’s international relationships, many of the specific details of agreements between China and North Korea are not publicly well-documented. However, here’s a general overview of the nature and scope of their economic interactions:

1. Sino-North Korean Mutual Aid and Cooperation Friendship Treaty (1961): This treaty is a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship, pledging mutual assistance in the event of an attack and solidifying extensive economic and military support. Although primarily a security treaty, it has significant implications for economic exchanges, facilitating state-level economic aid and trade preferences between the two nations.
2. Bilateral Trade Agreements: Over the years, China and North Korea have engaged in various bilateral trade agreements that govern the exchange of goods such as minerals, agricultural products, and manufactured items. China is North Korea’s largest trade partner and provides a critical economic lifeline to the country, supplying food, machinery, and consumer goods.
3. Economic Development Zones: China has been involved in the development of special economic zones on the North Korean border. These zones are designed to foster economic cooperation, attract investment, and increase trade. The zones focus on industries such as manufacturing, technology, and services, providing a controlled environment for economic interaction with North Korea.
4. Infrastructure and Investment Projects: China participates in various infrastructure projects within North Korea, including road and bridge construction, and improvements to transportation networks. These projects are part of broader efforts to enhance logistical connections between the two countries, facilitating trade and mobility.
5. Cultural and Educational Exchanges: Although not strictly trade agreements, these exchanges are part of the broader relationship, helping to cement ties and ensure ideological alignment. They include language programs, educational exchanges, and cultural cooperation, which indirectly support economic interactions.

The economic relationship between China and North Korea is heavily influenced by political considerations, with China playing a pivotal role in supporting North Korea’s economy amidst international sanctions. This support is crucial for North Korea’s survival and forms part of China’s strategic interests in maintaining stability on the Korean Peninsula.