Author Archive

Investment Risks and Riddles: Zhejiang Businessmen and the DPRK

By | December 15, 2015

Chinese sources are no panacea for the dearth of official data coming from the DPRK. But with a sharp-eyed detachment, they can still help. Translating a 2013 article on DPRK economic relations with the Chinese province of Zhejiang, Matthew Bates shows us how.

End of an Era of Huge Profits: Mainland Businessmen Talk Sino-DPRK Border Trade

By | January 23, 2014

As interlocutors from both sides of the Sino-North Korea borderland trade attempt to find new footing, Chinese views of the business environment in the DPRK are more important than ever. Matthew Bates and Adam Cathcart translate, with photos from Mr. Bates.

Growth Prospects and the Potential for Progress in the DPRK’s Agricultural Sector: Infrastructure and Incentives

By | June 23, 2013

Matthew Bates completes his discussion with agronomist Tom Morrison on the prospects of food self-sufficiency in North Korea. In the final installment of a three part series, Morrison finishes his discussion of agricultural reforms and delves into a dialogue about the geography of rice and potato production.

Growth Prospects: Tom Morrison on the Potential for Progress in the DPRK’s Agricultural Sector

By | June 16, 2013

Matthew Bates continues his discussion with agronomist Tom Morrison on the prospects of food self-sufficiency in North Korea. In part two of a three part series, Morrison discusses the effectiveness of previous aid and reform efforts and the prospects of further agricultural reform.