KOSME Steps Up to Support SMEs Amid Middle East Crisis and AI Transformation

'KOSME On-Site Solutions' Roundtable Held

On April 29, the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME) announced that it held a 'KOSME On-Site Solutions' roundtable at the KMF business site located in Cheonan, Chungnam.

This roundtable was organized to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in responding to the Middle East war crisis and preparing for artificial intelligence transformation (AX). The event was attended by Sukkyoon Kang, Chairman of KOSME, Jeonggu Lee, Chairman of the Chungnam Strong Study Entrepreneurs Association, and representatives from eight member companies.

The Chungnam Strong Study Entrepreneurs Association is a consultative body with significant participation from export-oriented SMEs. In response to rapidly changing conditions and crises, it actively conducts CEO training and other programs, mainly in the Cheonan and Asan regions. Many companies are currently experiencing the dual pressure of adjusting to AX, resulting in high expectations for government support.

Jungjinkong Headquarters, Jinju-si, Gyeongnam

During the event, participating companies shared their opinions on various issues related to exports to the Middle East and explored possible countermeasures. In particular, they highlighted on-site difficulties such as rising logistics costs, surging raw material prices, increasing export uncertainty, challenges in securing workforce, and the burdens associated with introducing artificial intelligence transformation (AX).

One participating company stated, "As exports to the Middle East are delayed, the sharp drop in sales and increased transportation costs have created a severe management crisis, making government support desperately needed." Another company commented, "While we agree on the necessity of AI transformation, we are facing difficulties in adoption due to the initial investment burden and the shortage of professional personnel."

In response, KOSME plans to actively support companies in overcoming crises and advancing digital transformation by strengthening follow-up support tailored to on-site needs, such as policy funds, export vouchers, relief of logistics costs, and assistance with export contract management. Chairman Kang said, "The increasingly uncertain trade environment, including recent developments in the Middle East and the acceleration of AX, is adding to the management burdens for SMEs. Based on the voices from the field, we will develop practical support measures and take the lead in resolving business difficulties through the 'KOSME On-Site Solutions' program."

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