North's sugar imports from China reach highest-ever level as Kim looks to sweeten national sentiment
North Korea dramatically increased its sugar imports from China in late 2025, following a high-profile meeting between its leader and the Chinese president. Over two months, the country brought in more than 18,000 tons of sugar—an unprecedented surge that analysts link to upcoming political events and regime priorities.
In September 2025, Kim Jong-un travelled to China for talks with President Xi Jinping. Shortly after, sugar shipments from China to North Korea soared. The volume in September alone was 4.6 times higher than in August, marking the largest single-month delivery on record.
By October, total imports for the two-month period reached 18,108 tons, worth approximately $10.3 million. The timing coincides with preparations for key state occasions, including the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party in October 2025 and the anticipated Ninth Party Congress in early 2026. Sugar holds particular significance in North Korea due to its limited domestic production. The regime often uses it as a tool to reward loyalty and maintain control. Observers suggest the stockpiling effort may have been discussed during Kim’s summit with Xi, though no official details have been released. On December 17, 2025, Kim visited the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang. The ceremony marked the 14th anniversary of his father’s death, reinforcing the regime’s focus on political continuity and stability.
The sharp rise in sugar imports highlights North Korea’s reliance on Chinese supplies for strategic reserves. With major political events on the horizon, the regime appears to be securing resources to reinforce public support. The scale of the shipments underscores the close economic ties between Pyongyang and Beijing.
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