An analysis of Japanese customs records revealed that Japan has imported more than $26,000 worth of goods from North Korea in recent years. This is despite a long-standing ban on imports from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) that was put in place to cut off funding for its weapons programs. Tokyo has prohibited all imports originating or shipped from North Korea since 2006, following the DPRK’s first nuclear test that year and its ongoing weapons development. NK News reports.
The importation of goods from North Korea contradicts past statements from the Japanese government. For instance, in 2018, the government reportedly told the United Nations Security Council that its ban has prevented the supply, sale, transfer, and procurement from North Korea. The customs records reveal that the DPRK has been able to smuggle goods into Japan, indicating that the ban may not be foolproof.
According to experts, these goods are believed to be raw materials and other items that can be easily hidden, such as electronic components. The small amount of goods imported from North Korea is also a drop in the bucket compared to Japan's overall trade. But, given the sensitive nature of the ban, the government will come under scrutiny for the breach. The revelations will likely raise questions regarding the efficacy of Japan's enforcement measures, especially with the DPRK defying international sanctions to expand its arsenal.
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