North Korean Sanctions: Only Time Will Tell

North Korea watchers knew what to expect following Pyongyang’s 4th nuclear test on January 6th, 2016: a new round of United Nations sanctions. Known as UNSC Resolution 2270, this latest group of sanctions increases inspections on cargo vessels, limits the import of North Korean raw materials such as coal, gold, rare earth metals, and titanium ore, and restricts exports of aviation fuel to North Korea.

What is not yet clear is how effective this new round of sanctions will be. North Korea watchers say China is the lynchpin of successful sanctions as North Korea’s largest trading partner.  According to 2014 figures (the most recent year available), China accounts for 90 percent of North Korea’s trade revenue – valued at approximately $6.86 billion. Approximately three quarters of this, or $5.15 billion, is derived from mineral exports now restricted by the sanctions.

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