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South Korean agro-food exports hit record high

Demand for grapes, pears and strawberries are on top in the Southeast Asian nations. (Image source: evic dong/Flickr)

The exports of agricultural products have hit a record high in the first half of 2018, mainly because of the strong demand from China and Southeast Asian countries, according to a report by South Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

As reported by Xinhuanet, South Korea’s shipment of food and agro-based products reached a US$3.55bn in the first six months time period in 2018, which is up 7.9 per cent from the first six months time period in 2017.

The export is so far the highest, exceeding the 6.6 per cent growth in South Korea’s overall exports, said the source.

According to the source, the strong demand for ginseng, fruits and vegetables from the Southeast Asian countries has led the export to reach US$670mn in the first half of 2018.

Apart from the fresh vegetables, export of processed food reached to US$2.95bn in the first half of this year. This is seen particularly in beverages, instant noodles and powdered milk.

Apart from China, South Korea’s biggest business partner, export of agricultural and food products shows an increasing trend with Japan and the US market as well.