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North Korea-China Trade Soars 25% to $2.73 Billion

1/20/2026

32 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, trade between North Korea and China rebounded to $2.73 billion, up 25% from 2024.
December 2025 saw North Korea import $257.4 million in goods from China.
Kim Jong Un, North Korean leader, and Xi Jinping, China’s President, met in September in Beijing, where Kim pledged to strengthen bilateral relations.
China remains North Korea's largest trading partner, which underscores the central role of bilateral trade in the DPRK economy.

History

Historical Context

In 1961, North Korea and China formalized their economic ties through a mutual assistance treaty, enhancing cooperation and establishing a framework for trade. During the 1960s, China provided over $1 billion in aid annually to North Korea. Today, trade has surged to $2.73 billion, underscoring the enduring partnership between Kim Jong Un and Xi Jinping and highlighting China's crucial role in North Korea's economy.

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Story summary

In 2025, trade between North Korea and China rebounded to $2.73 billion, up 25% from 2024.
December 2025 saw North Korea import $257.4 million in goods from China.
Kim Jong Un, North Korean leader, and Xi Jinping, China’s President, met in September in Beijing, where Kim pledged to strengthen bilateral relations.
China remains North Korea's largest trading partner, which underscores the central role of bilateral trade in the DPRK economy.

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