Wheat Harvest Boost: North Korea Claims Tripled Output Compared to 2021
North Korea is once again drawing attention to its agricultural output. This time, the focus is on a reported wheat harvest boost. State-run media announced Sunday that this year’s wheat yield has more than tripled compared to 2021.
According to the Rodong Sinmun, North Korea’s main newspaper, wheat and barley harvests have exceeded national targets. The front-page report praised farmers and state planners for executing the grain production plan successfully. Officials claim the wheat harvest boost results from expanded cultivation areas and improved methods.
In particular, the newspaper noted a major increase in farming land. This year alone, wheat fields expanded by over 30,000 jongbo. That equals roughly 300 million square meters, a significant leap from the previous year. The paper credited workers’ loyalty to the state and collective determination for the improvement.
Moreover, the Rodong Sinmun stated that wheat cultivation has increased year after year. Officials expect this trend to continue through next season. The report described this growth as vital for food security and self-reliance.
However, outside experts remain skeptical. International agencies have consistently reported long-term food shortages in North Korea. Global analysts warn that optimistic domestic reporting often masks deeper economic distress.
In March, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) once again listed North Korea among countries needing external food aid. This marks the 19th consecutive year the FAO has made that designation. Despite reports of a wheat harvest boost, the FAO continues to monitor the country’s food situation closely.
Additionally, independent observers highlight issues such as outdated infrastructure, climate impacts, and limited fertilizer supply. These factors continue to hinder sustainable food production in the country.
Still, North Korean media rarely acknowledge international assessments. Instead, they focus on themes of progress, unity, and national strength. Government messaging emphasizes resilience in the face of external pressures.
As harvest season progresses, more data may reveal the actual scale of the wheat harvest boost. For now, state media maintains an optimistic outlook while global agencies proceed with caution. This contrast reflects the ongoing gap between domestic propaganda and international assessments of North Korea’s agricultural reality.
