K-Food+ Exports Hit Record High in First Half; Middle East Posts Fastest Growth
Creatrip Team
23 days ago
South Korea's K-Food+ exports reached a record $7.05 billion in the first half of 2026, up 4.1% year-on-year. K-Food+ includes fresh and processed agricultural foods, farm machinery, animal medicines, and smart-farm technologies. Agricultural food exports totaled $5.38 billion (up 5.0%) and agribusiness $1.66 billion (up 1.4%). By region, the highest growth rates were the Middle East (GCC, 25.2%), Latin America (19.5%), Europe (EU+UK, 17.9%), North America (11.0%) and Greater China (9.5%). The U.S. remained the top market with $1.04 billion—driven by ramen, snacks, kimchi, and pears—while China led in ramen imports ($217.6 million) and was the second-largest destination overall. Ramen exports reached $940 million and are on track to surpass $1 billion earlier than last year. Kimchi gained recognition in U.S. dietary guidance as a beneficial fermented food, boosting North American sales (about $31 million). Middle East exports rebounded after early-year disruptions, aided by rerouted logistics and demand for ginseng and health supplements. Latin America saw strong increases in ramen, supplements, yuzu, kimchi, and strawberries. Agricultural machinery, fertilizers and animal medicines helped agribusiness growth, with Europe a key market for farm equipment. The government plans continued support—including AI-driven production, logistics and marketing measures—and stronger action on food regulation, certification and counterfeit K-Food distribution.
