Photo of a North Korean flour mill / Rodong Sinmun

This month, Russia exported 540 tons (about 1.1 million lbs) of flour to North Korea, significantly impacting the daily lives of North Korean citizens through their food supply.

On Tuesday, NK News, a U.S.-based media outlet specializing in North Korean affairs, reported that 540 tons (about 1.1 million lbs) of flour produced in Novokuznetsk, Kuzbass region, underwent quality inspections on January 3, 19 and 20 before being shipped to North Korea. This information was confirmed by the Siberian branch of the Russian Veterinary Surveillance Agency.

Statistics from the Russian Veterinary Surveillance Agency indicate that the Kuzbass region has consistently exported flour to North Korea in recent years.

NK News analysis shows that from January to July of last year, North Korea's imports of Russian flour reached 3.3 million USD, a 50% increase compared to the same period the previous year. This amount constitutes nearly half of all agricultural products Russia exported to North Korea during that time frame.

Earlier, a North Korean delegation led by Kim Kwang-wook, director of the North Korean Academy of Agricultural Sciences, visited Russia from November 21 to December 5 last year. The group inspected research institutions in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Siberia, aiming to enhance agricultural practices in both nations.

NK News observed that North Korea is actively promoting flour consumption in alignment with its strengthened relations and increased economic exchanges with Russia.

This trend likely stems from Kim Jong Un's 2021 directive to replace corn, the previous staple crop, with rice and flour. This shift has led to changes in major crop production towards rice and wheat, subsequently increasing flour demand. Since 2022, North Korea has been hosting an annual Flour Food Exhibition, showcasing a variety of flour-based dishes.

As North Korean authorities continue to emphasize increased flour production and demand for flour products rises among citizens, Russian flour exports are expected to continue. Following the signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty in 2024, North Korea and Russia have been expanding cooperation across various sectors, including education, sports, healthcare, military, and science.

This month, Russia exported 540 tons (about 1.1 million lbs) of flour to North Korea, sign …

North Korea's Flour Demand Soars: How 540 Tons from Russia is Changing Lives in 2026