NORD KOREA

Bilateral relations Switzerland–North Korea

Switzerland is involved in North Korea within the framework of peace promotion and humanitarian assistance efforts. It has repeatedly hosted mediation talks between China, the United States and North Korea.

Economic cooperation

Trade and economic relations are not intensive. North Korea is interested in closer cooperation with a number of Swiss companies.

Business language

English.

Dimensions and weights

Metric system.

Currency

1 Won = 100 Chon.
ISO code: KPW

Customs tariff

Harmonised system.

Import control

Restrictive measures: weapons embargo, dual-use goods, luxury goods, import, transit and travel restrictions, import and export bans. Only via import licences; imports generally through state foreign trade agencies. Permission for foreign currency transfers is granted on issuance of the import licence.
State export guarantees are not assumed.

Inspection certificate

For certain goods (see “List of imports”: 1. Ethyl alcohol, 2. Glacial acetic acid, 3. Saccharin, 4. Ramyeon [instant noodles], 5. Raw materials for medicines) a “Certificate of Conformity” (COC) must be provided. The “List of imports” is to be revised every six months. These goods are subject to pre-shipment inspections by an authorised inspection company.

Terms of payment and tenders

Request a letter of credit. Most transactions, however, are against payment in advance or on a compensation basis. Strive to issue invoices in EUR. Tenders in English.

Designations of origin

No special labelling regulations known.

Marking/labelling

No information.

Packaging

According to the information provided by the freight forwarder, no special regulations known.

Product samples

Samples with no retail value are duty free.

Shipping and accompanying documents

For ship freight:

a) Commercial invoices (ask the foreign trade agency how many) with the standard information. Uncertified; where applicable comply with letter of credit provisions.

b) Bills of lading uncertified.

c) Packing lists: each package must have an easily accessible overview of the goods it contains indicating the weight and dimensions (length, width and height).

d) Insurance policies: to be issued in the country of origin.

e) Postal shipments: maximum weight 20 kg, 1 international dispatch note, 3 customs declaration (French).

f) Certificates of origin are generally required.