North Korean grain prices rise sharply once again following a short dip earlier this month, with both rice and corn costs climbing across regions. In Pyongyang, rice reached 9,500 won per kilogram on April 27, up 4.4 percent from two weeks earlier. Hyesan, located in Ryanggang province, recorded a similar 4.3 percent increase, with rice selling for 9,700 won. These prices now approach the record highs seen in late March before dropping during the Kim Il Sung birthday holiday period. However, markets have since seen a strong rebound.
Sinuiju and Hyesan also reported elevated rice prices, suggesting that the trend extends beyond the capital. In late March, rice peaked at 9,500 won in Pyongyang and Sinuiju, and 9,700 won in Hyesan. By mid-April, a holiday-driven price dip offered temporary relief, but that has quickly reversed. Now, North Korean grain prices rise sharply across the board, reigniting concerns about food affordability. Analysts say that declining reserves and limited imports are likely pushing prices upward.
Corn, a staple food for many low-income households, also saw significant increases. In Pyongyang, corn prices hit 4,300 won per kilogram, rising 4.9 percent from the previous survey. Hyesan recorded an even sharper jump of 6.1 percent, reaching 4,510 won. This is the highest price for corn since tracking began in 2009. With the next wheat and barley harvests still weeks away, grain prices are likely to continue climbing.
North Korean grain prices rise sharply alongside steep fuel hikes, particularly for diesel. In Pyongyang, diesel surged 13.1 percent to 21,600 won per kilogram. Hyesan saw prices reach 21,800 won, marking a new high. These increases come just as the spring farming season begins, increasing demand for fuel. Meanwhile, imported food products such as sugar, cooking oil, and flour have also become more expensive.
Among imported goods, flour saw the largest spike. In Pyongyang, it jumped 14.3 percent to 11,200 won per kilogram over two weeks. This sharp rise follows months of stable prices, supported by imports from Russia. The latest surge suggests a recent drop in supply, likely due to reduced shipment volumes. As a result, consumers face mounting pressure across all essential food categories.
Currency markets have shown mixed results during the same period. The won-to-dollar rate rose 2.3 percent to 22,000 won in Pyongyang. However, the won weakened against the Chinese yuan, falling 3 percent to 3,120 won in Sinuiju and Hyesan. These currency shifts may further complicate the country’s ability to manage rising import costs. Economic conditions remain volatile, with no clear signs of price stabilisation in the short term.
