China bans imports of DPRK raw minerals, aviation fuel exports

China on Tuesday announced embargoes on some imports from and exports to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

In terms of imports, China banned purchases of coal, iron ore, gold, rare earths and several other raw minerals. Exports of aviation fuel to the DPRK are also no longer allowed.

The bans, with immediate effect, follow the UN Security Council's resolutions, the Ministry of Commerce said in a statement on its website.

The statement said the embargoes allow some imports of DPRK coal, iron and iron ore for civilian use, but any trade related to the DPRK's nuclear or missile programs is banned.

The UN Security Council adopted a resolution last month in response to the DPRK's nuclear and missile program following its nuclear test in January and satellite launch in February.