KOTRA is expanding its support for exporters facing challenges due to instability in the Middle East. The agency is shifting its focus from initial damage control to maintaining exports to the region while also seeking alternative markets in China and Southeast Asia.
According to industry sources, KOTRA will urgently operate the "2026 Online Integrated Delegation for Continuing Exports to the Middle East" from June 8 until July 31. This initiative aims to assist domestic and novice exporters in maintaining their sales channels as travel and local operations have become difficult due to the prolonged conflict in the region.
The delegation will primarily focus on seven trade offices in the Middle East to connect domestic companies with new buyers through one-on-one video consultations. The program is open to about 150 companies, including those with prior export experience to the Middle East and those looking to enter the market.
Before the consultations, KOTRA will hold seminars explaining the current situation in the Middle East and the demand for post-conflict reconstruction. The seminars will highlight opportunities in various sectors, including construction, defense, and basic consumer goods, while overseas trade offices will assess the market potential of each company's products to enhance consultation effectiveness.
Exporters are increasingly seeking to secure buyers in neighboring regions such as China, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia, as logistics costs and payment risks in the Middle East rise, making it challenging to maintain existing client relationships.
Digital marketing efforts will also be implemented. KOTRA plans to collaborate with 20 AI Trade Support Centers nationwide to assist participating companies in creating product introduction content and registering their products in the Buy Korea online special hall for continuous exposure to overseas buyers.
AI will also be utilized to identify alternative markets. KOTRA will recommend promising markets based on the HS codes of the products companies wish to export and their export experience, providing reports that include market size, competitive landscape, distribution structure, and information on certifications and regulations, along with potential buyer details.
KOTRA plans to expand video consultations to China and Southeast Asia in a relay format, starting with this initiative focused on the Middle East. After the conflict, the agency will also promote export support linked to reconstruction demands in sectors such as plants, healthcare, basic consumer goods, and defense.
Kang Kyung-sung, President of KOTRA, stated, "In times of crisis, it is KOTRA's role to open export pathways for companies. We will mobilize digital marketing using AI, online consultations, and on-site support from trade offices to assist exporters."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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