Agri-Food Exports Hit Hard by Middle East Conflict... aT Announces 7.2 Billion Won Emergency Support

Supplementary Budget Powers 'Global Growth Package'

Up to 90% Support for Logistics and Alternative Shipping Costs

Amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has led to increased logistics disruptions and higher costs, Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) is expanding its support for agri-food export companies.

On April 16, aT announced that it will be accepting applications for participation in the "2026 Agri-Food Global Growth Package Support Program" from April 16 to April 30. This program will be implemented with a total budget of 7.2 billion won, utilizing the supplementary budget.

The eligible participants are companies exporting to the Middle East or via the Middle East, as well as companies with records of exporting fresh agricultural products. Each company can receive up to 12 million won in support, and approximately 600 companies will be selected.

This program is designed to ease the burden on export companies. Companies can choose from 23 categories tailored to their needs, including: ▲ establishing production and export infrastructure ▲ post-harvest management ▲ transportation and customs clearance ▲ market development.

In particular, reflecting the increase in logistics costs and transportation delays due to instability in the Middle East, the program has designated "emergency trade issue response" as a key category. This includes additional costs incurred from alternative shipping routes, expenses for the return of export cargo, and local detention costs.

Selected companies are required to use at least 50% of the total support funds received for four categories directly related to the war, such as logistics and insurance.

Jeon Gichan, Director of Food Export at aT, stated, "We hope that this additional support program will help ease the burden on agri-food export companies affected by the Middle East conflict and support them in overcoming this crisis."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.