North Korean authorities launched a sweeping market control campaign to curb the flow of imported goods circulating in local marketplaces. This market control campaign began after rising trade with China increased the availability of foreign products across several provinces.
Officials in South Pyongan province organized a joint strike force of police and security officers to enforce the operation. They designated November as “distribution purification month” and immediately ordered inspections in markets across Pyongsong, Sunchon, Kaechon and Anju. The effort aims to restrict unauthorized selling of imports flooding into the informal economy.
According to local sources, enforcement teams now inspect every person entering the markets. They examine cargo, personal bags and even mobile phones carried by merchants, drivers and porters. This approach expanded quickly as authorities attempted to stop goods from bypassing state-managed distribution channels.
Traders said enforcement vehicles follow each truck entering the market. They also noted that more officers stand in the markets than merchants themselves. Many residents now joke that “there are more flyswatters than flies,” reflecting growing frustration with constant surveillance.
Officials confiscate merchandise whenever they find items lacking clear documentation or registered supply lines. Merchants may reclaim confiscated goods by paying fines at police stations, but many say officers keep high-value products. They argue that this practice creates financial losses and deepens distrust between traders and local authorities.
Market activity has slowed significantly despite increased import volume. Wholesalers continue supplying goods on credit due to steady Chinese inflows, yet retail demand remains weak. Retailers cannot sell their stock, wholesalers cannot recover their loans and both sides now struggle with mounting financial pressure.
Merchants expressed anger about the intensified enforcement. They said frequent mobilizations ahead of the Ninth Party Congress already disrupted their businesses. The expanded inspections, fines and seizures add further instability to households that depend on daily market income.
The market control campaign also reflects broader policy priorities as the government tries to reassert authority over commercial activity. Analysts say the crackdown indicates renewed attempts to tighten oversight on private trade and prevent unofficial distribution networks from growing stronger.
Authorities may continue expanding the market control campaign as import levels rise. Traders worry that constant enforcement will reduce their earnings and weaken already fragile local markets. Despite these concerns, officials appear determined to maintain strict regulatory control during a period of heightened political preparation.
