The Rajin-Sonbong Zone is rich in natural resources, particularly coal, high grade iron ore, magnesite, nickel, crystal and ceramic clay. There are abundant fish and seafood resources, both from the East Sea and from the area's many lakes. Major products include pollack, sardines, herring, salmon, shrimp, shellfish and seaweed. High value export items include sea urchin, trepang, squid, crab, clams, oysters and shrimps. The Rajin-Sonbong Zone is well suited to a range of seasonal crops, livestock and forestry.
Agriculture is based on maize and rice, but potatoes, beans and fruit are also grown.
Large areas of coastal pasture near the Tumen River support cattle, pigs, sheep and mink. There is also poultry and duck farming. The large forests contain mushrooms, ginseng, mountain herbs and other valuable raw materials for production of traditional Korean medicine. There are deer farms on the DPRK-Russia border. Economy Investment in a number of leading economic sectors has changed the nature of employment and business opportunities in the Rajin-Sonbong Zone in recent years.