Beijing strictly implements UN sanctions on DPRK, says MOFCOM

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China's Ministry of Commerce reiterated on Thursday that China has been strictly implementing the UN sanctions on the DPRK over its nuclear and missile programs.

In response to a question about China receiving 1.63 million tons of smoke-free coal from the DPRK in August despite Resolution 2371, which was adopted by the United Nations Security Council on August 5, the ministry's spokesperson Gao Feng said the ban on imports of mineral and marine products from the DPRK has not been breached.

Gao explained that items that had already arrived at Chinese ports before Chinese authorities announced the ban could still go through customs clearance procedures.

The official said China's practices are in line with the provisions of the UNSC resolution and in accordance with the country's foreign trade, laws and regulations. China will carry out trade with the DPRK in accordance with domestic laws and international obligations, he said.

Gao also responded to a question by CGTN reporter about the ministry's four-month crackdown on violations to protect intellectual property rights of companies with foreign investors.

“Protection of IP rights is very important for China’s innovation and economic development. This act shows China’s continuous efforts of strengthening IP protection and creating a fair market environment," Gao said.