No Chinese companies participated in North Korea’s first international trade fair in five years last month, NK Pro analysis shows, likely reflecting an effort by Pyongyang to reduce reliance on its main economic benefactor as it boost ties with Russia.

The Pyongyang Autumn International Trade Fair (PAITF) kicked off on Nov. 20 for the first time since the start of the pandemic, featuring a revamped lineup of international attendees that mostly included Russian businesses.

Companies from other countries, like Italy-based Eata and Thailand-based Civilize Import-Export, also set up booths at the exhibition, alongside some participants