North Korea's state media touts the'miracles of industrial production' when output exceeds target

North Korea's industrial production reached 105% of its planned 'targets' in the 100 days following the ruling party's congress in February. This was due to technological innovation and worker mobilisation.

North Korea presented a five-year economic plan to its Ninth Party Congress, focusing on the basic industries, electricity and living standards.

KCNA credited "the strength and patriotism of the nation, as well as self-reliance based upon science and 'technology" for gains in sectors such coal, cement, and power.

North 'Korean Leader Kim Jong Un has set science and technilogy as a key formula to?increase production? and urged his country to "open a?new era of transformation? through self-reliance," KCNA reported.

Cement production increased at major plants, such as Sangwon Cement Complex where KCNA reported March output reached 107% of monthly target. Coal mines also produced around 106% more than the previous year's levels, thanks to new mining methods and equipment upgrades.

KCNA said that power generation increased due to efficiency improvements in thermal and hydropower stations, as well as a higher output of fertilizers and other industrial goods.

North Korea has long suffered from chronic power shortages. However, recent analyses, such as satellite imagery, cited by the Wall Street Journal suggest that night-time light intensity is now three times higher than it was during the COVID-19 epidemic.

State media has praised nationwide construction activity and broader economic gains. Analysts claim that this was supported by arms transfers to Russia, trade with China and support from China. (Reporting and editing by Nia William; Kyu-seok Shim)

(source: Reuters)