- Real-time information sharing and joint response system with ICT-related agencies, overseas offices, and associations
- Expected to serve as a strategic control center for responding to both tariff and non-tariff issues in ICT exports
The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT, Minister Bae Kyunghoon) has announced the establishment of the “K-ICT Export Virtual Situation Room” to facilitate prompt responses to the United States’ swiftly evolving tariff policies. The inaugural meeting was held via videoconference on Friday, August 29, and was chaired by Vice Minister Ryu Je Myung.
The Situation Room is a consultative body led by MSIT, bringing together ICT-related agencies, overseas offices, and industry associations. Through an online platform, members will continuously share information and coordinate responses to emerging issues. This mechanism is expected to offer a comprehensive approach to addressing both tariff and non-tariff challenges faced by Korea’s ICT sector, including exports of ICT products and services, digital trade barriers, and regulations related to AI services.
To enable participation from the eight overseas Korea IT Cooperation Centers*—which serve as Korea’s global ICT hubs—the first meeting was conducted online. The session commenced with a presentation by the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade (KIET) on the impact of U.S. tariffs on major ICT export items, followed by updates from each institution regarding their ongoing efforts to address tariff issues. Participants also discussed strategies to navigate the shifting landscape of ICT export markets.
*Singapore, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, UAE, Silicon Valley, Beijing, Tokyo, India
ICT-related agencies agreed to intensify research and support to tackle emerging non-tariff issues, such as AI service regulations and digital trade barriers. Overseas IT Cooperation Centers committed to leveraging their local networks to help domestic companies adapt swiftly to foreign markets. Industry associations pledged to proactively collect feedback from domestic ICT companies, including those operating in overseas markets, to preserve export competitiveness amid tariff uncertainties.
To ensure effective and ongoing communication, MSIT will launch an online communication channel in September, providing a real-time platform for cooperation. When necessary, the ministry will convene roundtable discussions to hear directly from exporters, as well as economic and legal experts.
Vice Minister Ryu Je Myeong, who chaired the meeting, stated, “In today’s rapidly changing global trade environment, the 'K-ICT Export Virtual Situation Room' will function as the control center for safeguarding Korea’s ICT exports. Through robust inter-agency collaboration, we will take preemptive measures to address shifts in global markets and actively support the continued growth of ICT exports.”
For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT.
※ Please refer to the attached PDF.