Related: Trump gives 'final warning' on North Korea tradeThree Chinese trading companies exported roughly $650 million in goods to North Korea and imported more than $100 million. President Trump has been steadfast in upholding his policy of exerting "maximum pressure" on North Korea to isolate the regime. Such a designation, prevents North Korea from receiving U.S. foreign assistance and places a ban on defense exports and sales. Related: North Korea still making millions from small arms exportsUnder sanctions legislation signed by Trump in August, the State Department was required to report to Congress whether it would re-designate North Korea earlier this month. But he noted the decision to add North Korea back to the list was ultimately a message to the regime about the U.S.'s resolve to "disrupt and dissuade" certain actors from doing business with North Korea.

Source: CNN November 21, 2017 19:06 UTC