This display is from Oct. 30, 2025, at the K-Halal Food Booth run by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs near Gyeongju Hwabaek International Convention Center, which hosted last year's APEC forum in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. (Korea.net DB)

By Charles Audouin

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs on May 21 said food exports rose 4.7% year on year between January and April year to USD 3.58 billion.

Among processed foods, ramyeon (instant noodles), snacks, beverages and rice products led the growth. Overseas shipments of ramyeon jumped 28.9% and those of fresh produce saw strong showings by strawberries, grapes and pears.

By market, exports to the U.S., China, the European Union and Latin America increased 8.7% to 15.5%, while those to the Middle East surged 37.6% to USD 160 million.

The ministry said, "We communicated closely with buyers in export markets in conjunction with domestic logistics and the Dubai (United Arab Emirates) branch of Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp., providing weekly updates on maritime, inland and air logistics trends."

"Exporters are rerouting shipments inland through the Port of Khor Fakkan instead of that in Jebel Ali of the United Arab Emirates, while maintaining air transportation of fresh fruit and minimizing adjustments to delivery prices."

The ministry is also providing emergency support for agri-food exporters affected by the conflict in the Middle East including more export vouchers and subsidies for logistical costs.

caudouin@korea.kr