N. Korea opens annual trade fair amid sanctions

Seoul, October 27 - North Korea has inaugurated its autumn trade fair in Pyongyang, according to state media reports on Tuesday, as a possible initiative to generate foreign revenue in the face of global sanctions. The 18th Pyongyang Autumn International Trade Fair commenced at the Central Youth Hall in Pyongyang on Monday, with the theme of "Common development and prosperity," as stated by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Over 130 companies from North Korea, China, Mongolia, Bangladesh, and Thailand are displaying more than 10,000 products, ranging from electronics and machinery to medicines, building materials, and foodstuffs, as per the report.

Yun Jong-ho, External Economic Relations Minister, participated in the opening ceremony alongside other officials and exhibitors. In his address, Yun committed to expanding external economic relations with countries and regions globally, adhering to the principle of "complete equality and reciprocity," as reported by the KCNA. North Korea conducts trade fairs in both spring and autumn to attract foreign investment and stimulate trade, despite international sanctions.