What countries and products are represented at the 18th Pyongyang Autumn International Trade Fair?

More than 130 companies from North Korea, China, Mongolia, Bangladesh and Thailand are exhibiting over 10,000 products. The range includes electronics, machinery, medicines, building materials and foodstuffs.

What did Yun Jong-ho say about North Korea’s plans for external economic relations at the Pyongyang trade fair?

At the opening ceremony, External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong-ho vowed to expand economic relations with countries and regions around the world on the principle of complete equality and reciprocity.

Why does North Korea hold trade fairs in Pyongyang each spring and fall?

The fairs are held to attract foreign investment and boost trade amid international sanctions. The autumn event is described as an apparent effort to secure foreign earnings.

N. Korea opens annual trade fair amid sanctions

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Summary

North Korea opened the 18th Pyongyang Autumn International Trade Fair at the Central Youth Hall in Pyongyang on Monday, state media reported Tuesday, as it seeks foreign earnings amid international sanctions. More than 130 companies from five countries are showcasing over 10,000 products. External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong-ho said North Korea would expand economic relations with countries and regions around the world on the principles of equality and reciprocity.

Key Facts

The fair’s theme is Common development and prosperity.
Participating companies are from North Korea, China, Mongolia, Bangladesh and Thailand.
The products on display include electronics, machinery, medicines, building materials and foodstuffs.
North Korea holds trade fairs each spring and fall to attract foreign investment and boost trade.
Yun Jong-ho attended the opening ceremony alongside officials and exhibitors.

By Yonhap

Published Oct 27, 2026 10:29 am KST

North Korean officials attend the opening ceremony of the 18th Pyongyang Autumn International Trade Fair held at the Central Youth Hall in Pyongyang, Monday, in this photo released by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) the following day. Yonhap

North Korea has opened its autumn trade fair in Pyongyang, state media reported Tuesday, in an apparent move to secure foreign earnings amid international sanctions.

The 18th Pyongyang Autumn International Trade Fair opened at the Central Youth Hall in Pyongyang on Monday, under the theme of "Common development and prosperity," the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

More than 130 companies from North Korea, China, Mongolia, Bangladesh and Thailand are showcasing over 10,000 products from electronics products and machinery to medicines, building materials and foodstuffs, according to the report.

External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong-ho attended the opening ceremony, alongside officials and exhibitors.

In his opening speech, Yun vowed to "expand external economic relations" with countries and regions around the world on the principle of "complete equality and reciprocity," the report said.

North Korea holds trade fairs each spring and fall to attract foreign investment and boost trade amid international sanctions.

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