North Korea has launched a major trade shake-up, recalling several trade representatives from China suddenly before the Ninth Party Congress. This action highlights Pyongyang’s urgency to increase foreign currency and tighten control over international economic operations.
Between October 16 and 20, authorities ordered trade representatives in Dandong, Shenyang, and Donggang to return home immediately. Normally, trade officials serve abroad for three years before returning for political reviews. However, this recall included individuals with less than two years of overseas service, surprising both North Korean and Chinese business partners.
Sources report that some recalled representatives have not returned, and authorities cut off communication with them. Meanwhile, North Korea sent new officials to replace recalled personnel. The trade shake-up disrupted ongoing business deals, forcing Chinese partners to restart agreements from scratch.
Analysts say the move reflects leader Kim Jong Un’s push to boost economic results before the party congress. Officials who failed to meet foreign currency targets faced scrutiny during government inspections. North Korea seems determined to replace underperforming trade envoys with officials able to expand overseas earnings.
Some recalled representatives struggled because they strictly followed directives without engaging in informal practices such as lobbying or bribery. Evaluators marked their performance as insufficient. Remaining trade envoys now face pressure to deliver results without breaking political or legal rules.
The sudden personnel changes created anxiety among North Korean officials. Many fear that underperformance could lead to sudden dismissal. Chinese business partners also feel uncertain, which could weaken future trade cooperation with North Korea.
Experts warn that this trade shake-up may strain North Korea-China commerce further. Performance inspections are expected to continue, and additional personnel changes could follow. The reshuffle underscores North Korea’s focus on consolidating control and maximizing economic output as it prepares for a major political event.
