Strengthening Quarantine at Northern Borders and Railway Stations... "Increasing Inspection and Quarantine Intensity for Imported Goods"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] North Korea is intensifying its measures against the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

On the 15th, the North Korean Workers' Party organ, Rodong Sinmun, reported in an article titled "Leaving No Minor Gaps" that "inspection and quarantine operations on imported goods are being carried out intensively," adding, "Strict inspection, quarantine, and handling of goods are being conducted at border checkpoints, ports, and railway stations."

It also stated that disinfection of transportation means is being strengthened. The newspaper said, "Strict adherence to the storage period, income, and transportation order of goods is being enforced," and "responsible disinfection of personnel entering ports, medical examinations, and disinfection of transportation equipment is being carried out, while control is being tightened to ensure that all ships thoroughly treat sewage and waste water according to epidemiological requirements."

The newspaper further introduced quarantine measures in Sinuiju through another article. It reported, "The command is mindful that the novel coronavirus infection could spread due to natural climatic influences and is continuously strengthening epidemiological surveillance of the air and rivers."

North Korea claims to have no confirmed COVID-19 cases to the international community and asserts itself as a COVID-19 clean country. Internally, it emphasizes strengthening quarantine measures and tightening discipline.