Now In Korea
On Trade Day, Revaluing the Worth of Fresh Domestic Milk
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
December 5, Trade Day, celebrates Korea’s export-driven growth but also reminds policymakers to safeguard domestic industries and food security. Imported UHT (ultra-high temperature) milk imports surged 41.3% in Q3 2025 versus a year earlier, reaching a three-year monthly high. FTAs with major dairy exporters mean more tariff-free dairy will enter the market next year, raising concerns about market share erosion and vulnerability to international supply shocks. Consumers favor imported UHT milk mainly for its 12-month shelf life and lower price, according to a survey of 3,000 people. However, researchers report UHT processing causes greater nutrient loss and flavor change compared with standard pasteurization, undermining milk’s fresh-food qualities. Safety concerns also exist: imported UHT milk can spend over three months in transit and distribution, so consumers often buy products made months earlier, yet 68.5% of consumers are unaware of this. By contrast, 60.4% know that domestic fresh milk reaches consumers within 2–3 days of milking. Experts stress that long transport and storage increase quality and safety risks, and greater reliance on imports raises exposure to global supply disruptions. The Dairy Promotion Committee warns that rising production costs and higher import shares make domestic dairy farmers vulnerable and that protecting fresh, safe Korean milk is part of national food security. On Trade Day, voices call for balancing global trade gains with preserving domestic production and transparent food information.
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