The value of China's trade with North Korea in the January-to-August period tumbled 57.8 percent from a year earlier to $1.51 billion, Chinese customs data showed on Sunday.
Imports from North Korea in that period fell a steep 89.3 percent to $143.6 million, while exports fell 38.9 percent to $1.36 billion.
China's total trade with North Korea was valued at $219.9 million in August, up from $194.62 million the previous month.
Exports to North Korea in August were worth $200.7 million, up from $177.48 million the previous month.