◆White Rice Price Soars 2.2 Times
Following the rise in foreign currency, other prices are surging in unison. Particularly notable in the reports is that white rice prices have jumped 2.2 times compared to last week. The reporting partners explained the reason as follows:
"Foreign currency keeps rising, and if you exchange large amounts (of North Korean won to foreign currency) illegally, you might get caught in a crackdown, so people are rushing to buy rice (with the North Korean won they have)" (Reporting Partner B in Ryanggang Province)
This can be seen as those with some financial cushion purchasing in anticipation of further price increases. Additionally, Reporting Partner C stated, "Currently, right after the harvest, white rice management is extremely strict and transport across provincial boundaries is prohibited. White rice is very scarce in each region."
Corn prices have risen more than 60% compared to last week. This too is likely because more people are buying in anticipation of further price increases.
At state-run grain stores in North Hamgyong Province, corn has been sold for 3,200 won per kg since October. However, sales are limited to 15kg per household, far short of what's needed.
※ASIAPRESS maintains contact with its reporting partners through Chinese cellphones smuggled into North Korea.
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