China has been given direct access to the Sea of Japan for the first time since the 19th century, thanks to a lease deal with North Korea.

Goods from previously landlocked areas in China will have access through the port of Rajin, allowing China to enhance its trading with Japan and South Korea.

North Korea agreed to lease the port on its northeastern coast for ten years, after the Chinese requested a deal to boost its regional economy.

Experts have suggested the concession might be a sign of Pyongyang’s greater openness to international cooperation.

China has tried to open its exports through the Sea of Japan for several years, after North Korea designated it a free-trade zone.

Some Russian companies already have rights to use Raijin port.