North Korean Grain Prices Hit Record High Amid Trade Expansion

Rice prices in North Korea have reached an all-time high, according to Daily NK's market price survey. As of July 19, one kilogram of rice sold for 40,000 North Korean won in Pyongyang, a 28.2% increase from two weeks earlier.

The same day, corn prices also surged to new highs: one kilogram of corn was selling for 13,400 won in Pyongyang, up 21.8% from the previous survey.

The rise in grain prices is attributed to a combination of factors, including falling grain imports and a shortage of substitute crops such as new corn, wheat, and barley.