North Korea is particularly vulnerable to the coronavirus crisis, because most of its contact with the outside world is with China and enhanced sanctions against the regime have left little leeway economically for it to deal with the impact, The National Interest has reported.
Making matters worse for the impoverished nation, North Korea's efforts to contain the coronavirus will further harm its economy, as Pyongyang has reportedly ended cross-border trade and cracked down on smuggling Chinese goods.
This has led, according to The Washington Post, to price rices in such vital products as rice, corn, diesel, and gas, with the regime trying to impose price controls, which in all likelihood will only worsen the long-term problem.
If North Korea does face widespread cases of the coronavirus and quarantines its population, its economy is much less equipped to deal with a widespread industrial shutdown and would lead to even harsher financial conditions, The National Interest pointed out.
Pyongyang denies there are any infections, but due to the nation's repressive regime and lack of a free press, it is unclear how many North Koreans actually do have the coronavirus or are in quarantine.
The North Korean press has, however, reported about school closings, cancellation of public events and promoted preventinve techniques.
The National Interest suggests the U.S. could use the opportunity to restart diplomatic efforts by offering humanitarian medical and scientific assistance to the country to combat the coronavirus, including sanctions exceptions.