North Korea, one of the world’s most isolated and heavily sanctioned countries, has remained a major destination for Chinese wine exports this year, as the nation has few alternative options to source alcoholic drinks.
North Korea bought 157,393 litres of wine from China in the first seven months of 2025 – more than double the volume imported during the same period last year – making it the second-largest buyer of Chinese bottled wine so far this year, trailing only Hong Kong, according to customs data.
In terms of value, North Korea ranked fifth with purchases totalling US$544,980, behind Hong Kong, Singapore, Macau and France.
Unlike many other countries and regions, China has not imposed restrictions on wine sales to its long-time ally and neighbour, which has remained a major buyer for years.
North Korea was also China’s second-largest wine importer by volume in 2023 and 2024, official trade data showed. By value, it ranked fourth in 2024 and third in 2023.
The United Nations has banned luxury goods from entering North Korea since 2006, but alcohol is not included on its list, which covers items such as luxury watches, personal watercraft and recreational sports equipment.
