The Korean government is ramping up its efforts to boost food exports this year, according to Agriculture Minister Song Mi-ryung. She emphasized the rising demand for Korean products globally, especially with the growing popularity of K-culture.
Song pointed out that the Middle East and Southeast Asia offer promising new markets for Korean food. After recent visits to the UAE and Singapore, she witnessed firsthand the interest in K-food. At a major food trade show in Dubai, many attendees mentioned that K-dramas sparked their curiosity about Korean cuisine.
The Agriculture Ministry reported that it secured $8 million in agreements with international buyers at the show. In Singapore, the prospects for exporting beef and pork look bright, especially since the country has started importing products from Jeju Island.
This year, the ministry aims for food and agriculture exports to reach $16 billion. This goal represents a significant increase of 17.5% from last year’s record of $13.62 billion. In January alone, K-food exports rose by 12.6%, reaching $830 million.
To refine export strategies, the ministry has organized a new task force. Different markets will focus on specific items, such as kimchi for the U.S. and halal food for the Middle East.
Domestically, to prepare for the upcoming Lunar New Year, the government plans to distribute 170,000 tons of seasonal goods. This amount is about 1.7 times greater than usual, ensuring stable supply during the busy holiday.
Though agricultural prices remain stable overall, livestock prices are higher due to outbreaks of diseases like avian influenza this winter.
As K-food continues to capture attention worldwide, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve. The combination of strategic marketing and cultural influence may well enhance Korea’s position in the global food market.
For more insights on food trade, check out the latest reports from Food and Agriculture Organization.
