Sales volume at 'Ryanggok Panmaeso (state-run grain stores)' in northern regions of North Korea increased approximately twofold in January compared to last year. This was investigated by a total of 5 ASIAPRESS reporting partners living in two cities in North Hamgyong Province and Ryanggang Province. (ISHIMARU Jiro / KANG Ji-won)
◆ Banning Grain Trade in Markets and Centralizing to 'Ryanggok Panmaeso'
The Kim Jong-un regime began controlling the distribution of staple foods rice and corn through markets and between individuals from mid-2020. ASIAPRESS confirmed through reporting that authorities intervened in the previously legal grain trade in markets, and from January 2023, grain distribution in markets was prohibited and stores were dismantled. The Kim Jong-un regime sought to monopolize grain distribution by reinstalling state-run 'Ryanggok Panmaeso' nationwide. The purposes appear to be strengthening control over residents by weakening market functions, and enabling the state to profit from grain trade.
The 'Ryanggok Panmaeso' set state prices slightly cheaper than market prices, but due to insufficient supply, households could only purchase about 5-10kg, a situation that has continued. Residents have had no choice but to engage in secret private transactions, and anxiety about securing food has been growing.
This investigation revealed that sales volume at 'Ryanggok Panmaeso' in northern regions began increasing from November last year, and in January this year reached a level that nearly met demand. Sales consisted mainly of corn, with small amounts of wheat and flour also sold. There were no sales of white rice.
◆ Selling Corn at Approximately 0.094USD per kg
The reporting partners' investigation results are as follows:
For a household of three, corn sales volume was capped at 20kg in City A of North Hamgyong Province and 30kg in City B. The reason for the difference within the same province is unclear.
In Ryanggang Province, similarly 25-30kg was sold. The sales price was 3,400 won per kg. The corn was both domestic and Chinese. Although the sales price is state-set, a reporting partner in Ryanggang Province said "prices fluctuate monthly."
For reference, after last autumn's harvest, the 'procurement price' at which the state and enterprises bought corn from farms was 3,000 won per kg at one farm in North Hamgyong Province.
※ 1,000 North Korean won is approximately 0.0277USD.
