North Korea is buying tankers to avoid restrictions on fuel imports

North Korea has been accused of “significantly violating” restrictions on annual fuel imports. The UN found that the country accelerated the acquisition of vessels for its transportation.

UN officials have found that North Korea has rapidly accelerated the acquisition of vessels and is using deceptive delivery methods, Global Trade Review reported, citing the UN.

The organization’s sanctions limit North Korea’s import of refined oil to 500,000 barrels/year. This is how the UN is trying to force the country to curtail its missile and nuclear programs.

At the same time, according to a report by UN Security Council experts, North Korea imported about 800,000 barrels through the Nampo port during 8 months of last year.

Evidence provided to the UN by 52 countries, including all G7 countries and all EU member states except Sweden, shows that analysis of vessel “behaviour” helped identify 45 shipments that took place between January and August 2022.

Even if these vessels were only loaded to 60% of their capacity (a situation that would be neither financially nor logistically sound), the import volumes would still exceed the permitted rate. Russia and China, of course, deny the accuracy of the statements.

The UN commission is also investigating coal exports from North Korea, which have been banned since 2017. Experts are looking for information on transport documentation and financing mechanisms, as well as vessel identification data.

UN reports have repeatedly accused the authoritarian state of evading restrictions on fuel and coal trade.