Gov't Designates 145 Companies to Lead S. Korea's Food Exports

Why It Matters

Achieving the $16 billion target would cement Korea's position as a major food exporter and boost domestic producers' access to fast‑growing overseas markets. The partnership model also strengthens SMEs, fostering innovation and scaling capabilities.

Key Takeaways

• 145 firms chosen for Global Next K‑food Project.
• Target: $16 billion food export revenue in 2026.
• Export goal up 17.5% from 2025 record.
• Focus on halal, functional foods, street food, liquor, fruits.
• Large firms to partner with SMEs for overseas product development.

Pulse Analysis

The surge in global interest for Korean cuisine, propelled by the Korean Wave’s cultural influence, has turned food products into a strategic export category. In 2025, South Korea recorded a historic $13.62 billion in food and agriculture sales, and analysts expect that momentum to continue as consumers worldwide seek authentic flavors and convenient formats like instant noodles and ready‑to‑eat meals.

The Global Next K‑food Project is the government’s response to this demand, assembling 145 companies—both established brands and promising newcomers—to form cross‑size alliances. By pairing large firms’ distribution networks and capital with SMEs’ agility and product innovation, the program targets high‑growth niches such as halal‑certified foods, functional health products, and traditional liquors. These sectors not only cater to diverse dietary preferences but also open doors to markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe where demand for specialty Korean items is expanding rapidly.

If the $16 billion export goal is met, South Korea will solidify its status among the world’s top food exporters and create a ripple effect across related industries, from packaging to logistics. Investors are likely to watch for increased M&A activity as larger players seek to acquire niche SME capabilities. Moreover, the initiative sets the stage for the government’s longer‑term ambition of $21 billion in food exports by 2030, signaling sustained policy support and a robust growth trajectory for the nation’s agri‑food sector.