China’s reform and opening paid dividends for many of those involved—the nation’s economy benefited, as did China’s investors and trading partners. The GDP growth and investment boom which accompanied reform and opening also led to higher wages and living standards for hundreds of millions of Chinese individuals.

Many investments were not without problems, however, and while a dynamic North Korean economy would be enticing to multinationals, China’s experience demonstrates that there are several potential pitfalls.

Key sectors for investment

If North Korea were to pursue a similar mode