South Korea expands network of export-agency firms to 607 with 99 new designations

South Korea has expanded its network of specialized trading companies — firms that handle exports on behalf of small and midsize businesses — to 607 after designating 99 new members this year.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy held the "2026 Specialized Trading Company Designation Ceremony" at the Parnas Hotel in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on Wednesday, announcing the addition of 99 companies to the program.

This year's newly designated firms include Kolon Global (general trading), Nissan Trading (auto parts) and ISU Specialty Chemical (chemicals). Three companies recognized as outstanding specialized trading firms — H&Y Corporation, Technos and OKF — received commendations from the trade minister.

Specialized trading companies are export-agency firms designated by the trade minister under the Foreign Trade Act to open new markets and expand exports for small and midsize enterprises.

Designated firms receive opportunities for matchmaking consultations with promising domestic manufacturers. They also enjoy a range of benefits, including tax administration perks through the Korea Customs Service — such as payment deadline extensions, installment payment options and deferred customs audits — a 40 percent discount on short-term export insurance premiums from the Korea Trade Insurance Corporation, a 1.5-fold increase in export credit guarantee limits, and bonus points when applying for KOTRA overseas trade fairs.

Eligibility requirements include: exports of at least $10 million in the previous year or as a three-year average, with at least 20 percent of that coming from other small and midsize companies; large-company trading firms; retail specialists; e-commerce operators; overseas procurement firms; and companies run by overseas Koreans.

The combined export-agency volume handled by specialized trading companies has exceeded $7 billion for three consecutive years, cementing their role as a driving force behind South Korea's exports.

"The government will spare no effort in providing diverse support — including export marketing, financing and tax administration — so that specialized trading companies can operate to their fullest potential," said Na Seong-hwa, the ministry's trade policy director general.