Ministry of Trade Industry and Resources

MOTIR Holds WTO Multilateral Trade Strategy Meeting

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister JK (Jung-Kwan) Kim) held the WTO Multilateral Trade Strategy Meeting on Wednesday, December 10, at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul.   The meeting brought together the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MOEF), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA), the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF), and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea in Geneva.   In his remarks, Trade Minister Yeo emphasized that “enhancing the relevance of the WTO and restoring the multilateral trading system are essential to ensuring a predictable trade and investment environment for Korean companies amid growing global trade uncertainties.” He underscored the importance of working closely with relevant ministries and like-minded members to deliver meaningful outcomes at MC14, including the incorporation of the IFD Agreement and the extension of the E-Commerce Moratorium. date2025-12-12

MOTIR Holds Roundtable on Modular Trade Agreements with Trade Experts

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister Kim Jung-kwan) convened the “Roundtable on Modular Trade Agreements” on Wednesday, December 10, at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul.   The meeting brought together trade experts from Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), Naver, Lotte Fine Chemical, and other relevant organizations, companies, and associations to discuss Korea’s strategy for reshaping global trade norms and cooperation structures through new modular trade agreements.   In his remarks, Trade Minister Yeo stated that “modular trade agreements constitute a new cooperation model that enables Korea to take the lead in shaping international standards for next-generation trade rules amid a rapidly changing global environment.” He emphasized that “by enabling flexible and timely cooperation tailored to each country’s circumstances and business needs, the government will build a trade network that delivers tangible benefits to businesses.” date2025-12-12

Korea Launches Modular Trade Agreement Initiative to Lead the Future Global Trade Order

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister JK Kim) announced that Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo convened a roundtable on new modular trade agreements on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to discuss Korea’s strategy for reshaping global trade norms and cooperation structures through a new modular framework. The concept of modular trade agreements reflects growing recognition that traditional FTAs—focused largely on market opening—are no longer sufficient to fully address emerging trade issues such as supply-chain resilience, the green economy, and digital and AI transformation amid rising global uncertainty. For emerging economies with significant resources and growth potential but high sensitivity to market opening, the government noted that a tailored trade-cooperation model that more precisely reflects each country’s circumstances and cooperation needs has become increasingly important. Accordingly, MOTIR plans to gather broad input from industry and experts as it prepares a modular approach to new trade agreements. The ministry will first develop standard text for four key areas—supply chains, critical minerals, the green economy, and digital trade—after which specific modules and detailed provisions will be selected and combined for partner countries based on their respective conditions and cooperation needs. At the roundtable, Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo stated, “Modular trade agreements represent a new cooperation model that enables Korea to take the lead in shaping international standards for next-generation trade rules amid a rapidly changing global environment.” He added, “Through flexible and timely cooperation tailored to each country’s circumstances and business needs, we will build a trade network that delivers tangible benefits to Korean companies.” Industry representatives and experts emphasized that new modular trade agreements must be closely aligned with the actual risks and needs faced by companies, noting the model’s significantly enhanced timeliness, flexibility, and responsiveness compared to traditional FTAs. Based on feedback shared at the roundtable, MOTIR will further refine and finalize the standard text for each module by the end of 2025. Using this framework, the ministry plans to apply the modular approach first to next year’s FTA upgrade negotiations with Singapore and ASEAN, before expanding its use to additional partner countries. date2025-12-11

K-FEZ Expands Investment Outreach to Japanese Port and Logistics Companies

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister JK Kim) hosted “K-FEZ Day in Japan” on December 11, 2025, in Fukuoka. Focused on the port and logistics sector, the event showcased the investment appeal and business environment of Korea’s Free Economic Zones (K-FEZs) to companies in Japan’s Kyushu region, as part of efforts to expand investment outreach. The program included an overview of the K-FEZ investment environment; presentations on port and logistics projects in the Incheon, Gyeonggi, and Busan–Jinhae Free Economic Zones; a briefing by the Japan Maritime Center on the role of Korea–China–Japan manufacturing logistics; and one-on-one investment consultations. Approximately 100 participants attended, including representatives from MOTIR, KOTRA, the Incheon, Gyeonggi, and Busan–Jinhae Free Economic Zone Authorities, as well as major Japanese port and logistics companies such as Nippon Express, Mitsui-Soko, and Kokura Transport. Each Free Economic Zone Authority introduced its specialized initiatives—such as cold-chain clusters, e-commerce districts, and integrated logistics manufacturing facilities. J&K Logistics, a Japanese logistics consulting firm, also shared successful cases of Japanese logistics companies investing in Korea and proposed concrete models for Korea–Japan cooperation, drawing keen interest from participants. Je Kyung-hee, Director-General of the Free Economic Zone Planning Office, stated that “this event reaffirmed the strong interest of major Japanese port and logistics companies in K-FEZs,” adding that “MOTIR will continue strengthening tailored, industry-specific investment promotion activities aligned with the unique characteristics of each Free Economic Zone Authority.” MOTIR plans to promote the K-FEZ investment environment to major investment partner countries, including Japan, and expand opportunities for cooperation with potential investors. date2025-12-11

Korea and Japan Strengthen Investment and Supply Chain Cooperation Amid Rising Trade Uncertainties

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister JK Kim) held a roundtable with the Seoul Japan Club (SJC) and representatives of Japanese-invested companies at the Korea Press Center’s SJC conference room on Thursday, December 11, 2025. Japan has become Korea’s largest foreign investor despite global trade uncertainties, reaching a record USD 6.1 billion in reported FDI last year—ranking first among all investing countries. Against this backdrop, the roundtable aimed to strengthen dialogue with Japanese companies operating in Korea, providing an opportunity to closely assess their perspectives and challenges and to explore ways to support stable investment activities. Participants included Matsuura Tetsuya, SJC Chairman and President of Mitsubishi Corporation Korea; representatives of major Japanese investors; and officials from the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Korea. The Japanese side shared expectations for the new government’s economic policies, called for progress on SJC’s annual recommendations for Japanese companies investing in Korea, raised concerns over the amended Labor Union Act, and requested streamlined entry procedures for foreign businesspersons. Trade Minister Yeo underscored the importance of Korea–Japan cooperation, noting that “the two countries face similar pressures—from U.S. tariff actions and investment dynamics to China’s export controls and EU environmental rules.” He added that “to ensure Japan’s investment in Korea strengthens bilateral supply chains, Korea and Japan should build a future-oriented economic partnership by expanding cooperation in advanced industries, including AI, semiconductors, biotechnology, and new energy.” He also stated that “MOTIR will continue supporting Japanese investors by actively reviewing the SJC’s recommendations to be submitted in early 2026.” To further attract Japanese investment, MOTIR will thoroughly review the proposals raised at the roundtable with the relevant ministries and continue creating opportunities for communication with major foreign-invested companies. date2025-12-11

Korea Opens “Rare Metals Cooperation Center” to Advance Critical Minerals Partnership with Mongolia

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister JK Kim) announced that it will officially open the Korea–Mongolia Rare Metals Cooperation Center on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Mongolian University of Science and Technology in Ulaanbaatar. The center, established through a grant-based ODA program, will receive approximately KRW 9.8 billion in support from 2023 to 2027. About 150 participants will attend the opening ceremony, including representatives from Mongolia’s Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry (MMHI), the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority, and the Geological Center for Research and Analysis (GCRA), as well as officials from MOTIR, the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT), and the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM). Since 2023, MOTIR has been promoting the establishment and operation of Rare Metals Cooperation Centers through ODA programs to strengthen cooperation in critical mineral supply chains. The Mongolia center is the first to open among five centers being established in countries such as Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, and Indonesia. Jointly operated by KIGAM and Mongolia’s GCRA, the center will analyze tungsten, molybdenum, lithium, and other rare metals found in Mongolia and provide technical training in mineral processing, refining, and smelting. These activities aim to help Mongolia enhance the value of its rare metal resources and connect them to viable production. MOTIR assessed that the center’s opening marks an important milestone in bilateral cooperation on critical minerals and stated it will continue supporting the center’s operations, thereby advancing Mongolia’s rare metals industry and strengthening Korea’s medium- to long-term supply chain stability. date2025-12-11

Korea Discusses Preparatory Measures for the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister JK Kim) convened the WTO Multilateral Trade Strategy Meeting on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, together with the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MOEF), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA), the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF), and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea in Geneva. With the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference set for March 26–29, 2026, in Cameroon, participants examined recent developments and Korea’s response strategies regarding key agenda items for MC14 and the WTO General Council on December 16–17, 2025. These included WTO reform, incorporation of the Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Agreement and the E-commerce Agreement into the WTO system, and negotiations on agriculture and fisheries subsidies. The IFD Agreement, currently supported by 128 participating members, was concluded at MC13 under Korea’s co-chairmanship. Korea has since worked to incorporate it into the WTO system, including through the adoption of a supporting statement at APEC in May 2025 and the hosting of an IFD session at the WTO Public Forum in September 2025. Trade Minister Yeo noted, “Amid growing global trade uncertainties, enhancing the WTO’s relevance and restoring the multilateral trading system are vital to ensuring a predictable trade and investment environment for Korean businesses.” He emphasized the need to work closely with relevant ministries and like-minded members to achieve meaningful outcomes at MC14, including incorporation of the IFD Agreement and extension of the E-commerce Moratorium. date2025-12-10

Meeting with the New Ambassador of India to Korea

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR) met with Gourangalal Das, the newly appointed Ambassador of India to Korea, on Wednesday, December 10, at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul to discuss ways to expand economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.   During the meeting, Trade Minister Yeo underscored India’s importance as a key country in the New Southern region and highlighted Korea’s expectation that both sides will deepen their partnership by achieving new economic outcomes in areas with strong cooperation potential, including shipbuilding, critical minerals, and greenhouse gas reduction. date2025-12-10

MOTIR Holds the 52nd Trade Promotion Committee

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR) chaired the 52nd Trade Promotion Committee on Wednesday, December 10, at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul.   The meeting brought together officials from relevant ministries to review plans for holding the Korea–U.S. FTA Joint Committee, assess progress on the Korea–UK FTA upgrade negotiations, and examine key trade issues involving the EU, Mexico, and Canada, as well as developments related to the U.S. IEEPA lawsuit.   In his opening remarks, Trade Minister Yeo emphasized that “stable management of non-tariff issues remains critically important” following the conclusion of bilateral tariff negotiations with the United States, and called for “active inter-ministerial cooperation as the government prepares for the Joint Committee.” He also underscored the government’s commitment to “maintain vigilance and pursue proactive response measures as major economies expand protectionist measures and global trade conditions remain volatile.” date2025-12-10

Korea to Strengthen Economic and Trade Cooperation with India, a Key Country in the New Southern Region

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister JK Kim) met with Gourangalal Das, the newly appointed Ambassador of India to the Republic of Korea, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The two sides held wide-ranging discussions on ways to expand economic and trade cooperation between Korea and India. Trade Minister Yeo underscored India’s role as a key country in the New Southern region and a major economic cooperation partner for Korea. He expressed hope that the two countries would further deepen their partnership by generating tangible economic outcomes in areas with strong cooperation potential, such as shipbuilding, critical minerals, and greenhouse gas reduction. Ambassador Das reaffirmed his commitment to advancing bilateral economic and trade cooperation during his tenure. Both sides shared the view that improving the Korea–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is necessary to establish a mutually beneficial trade framework and expand bilateral economic and trade cooperation. They agreed to maintain close communication to resume upgrade negotiations as soon as possible. Trade Minister Yeo also noted that more than 670 Korean companies currently operate in India but continue to face challenges due to non-tariff barriers, including BIS certification requirements and trade remedy measures. He requested India’s support to ensure that these companies can continue contributing to bilateral economic cooperation. MOTIR will work closely with the Embassy of Korea, KOTRA trade offices, Korea Plus in India, and other local support institutions to foster a stable business environment for Korean companies operating in India. date2025-12-10