SEOUL: South Korea's standards agency announced on Tuesday its collaboration with free economic zones across the nation to jointly address global technical barriers and enhance the country's export capabilities. This strategic partnership aims to mitigate challenges posed by technical barriers to trade (TBTs), which include consumer safety standards, as well as energy and environmental requirements that might hinder South Korea's outbound shipments.According to Yonhap News Agency, the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards has formalized this effort by signing a memorandum of understanding with the authorities of eight free economic zones throughout the country. This recent agreement follows a previously established pact with the free economic zone in Incheon, located to the west of Seoul.The agreement outlines a cooperative framework wherein the agency and local authorities will keep South Korean businesses informed with the latest updates on TBTs and provide customized consulting services tailored t o their needs. The initiative is a response to growing concerns that these technical barriers could potentially undermine the competitiveness of South Korean exports in the global market.Jin Jong-wook, head of the standards agency, emphasized the commitment to supporting the 7,644 companies operating within these zones. "The standards agency and the authorities will offer full support to these companies, aiming to achieve an annual export volume of US$700 billion and pursue shared growth with businesses," Jin stated, underlining the ambitious goals set by this collaborative effort.
- October 12, 2026
