Korea is setting its sights on augmenting its food and related product exports to $14 billion this year, with a focus on penetrating emerging markets in the Middle East and Africa, as disclosed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. This ambition represents a 7.7 percent uplift from the $13 billion benchmark set in 2024. The strategic initiative was unveiled during a policy briefing to acting President Choi Sang-mok, highlighting the ministry's commitment to expanding Korea's agricultural export footprint.
As part of its export expansion strategy, the ministry is poised to forge a partnership with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency. This collaboration aims to identify and tap into new markets, notably in the Middle East, South Africa, and smaller municipalities across the United States, China, and Japan. A key component of this export drive is the emphasis on premium fresh produce, including strawberries and grapes, underscoring Korea's endeavor to elevate its agricultural product offerings on the global stage.
In response to the evolving dietary preferences that have seen a decline in rice consumption, the ministry is also looking to rejuvenate Korea's rice industry. This includes a comprehensive strategy to recalibrate the industry, focusing on production optimization, quality enhancement, and consumption stimulation. Concurrently, Korea is keen on advancing its agricultural sector's efficiency through the proliferation of smart farms, targeting an increase in their contribution to total agricultural output from 16 percent to 20 percent.
The ministry's action plan for 2025 encompasses a substantial investment of 108.8 billion won ($73.8 million) in research and development to foster innovation and sustainability in agriculture. This initiative is part of a broader effort to stabilize the agricultural economy and enhance the welfare of the Korean populace, particularly in the realm of fresh produce.
Source: Korea JoongAng Daily