A Japanese daily says North Korea is seeking to designate and develop Wihwa Island, located on the Amnok (Yalu in Chinese) River, into a free trade zone. The river doubles as part of the border between the two nations.

The Yomiuri Shimbun quoted an official familiar with North Korean-Chinese affairs as saying Tuesday that the North is mulling a plan which would allow Chinese visitors on the island without a visa.

The report said the plan is most likely an attempt by the North to secure food supplies by strengthening cross-border trade with Beijing.

The daily said the North’s move to boost trade ties with China comes at a time when the Lee Myung-bak government has hinted that it could revise its engagement policies toward Pyongyang.