SEJONG — South Korea is ramping up diplomatic and administrative efforts to expand its network of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) for halal certification, a strategic move aimed at lowering barriers for K-food exports to the global Muslim market.
Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Song Mi-ryung announced on Monday that the government will prioritize securing agreements with key partners, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Saudi Arabia.
Streamlining Export Procedures
Under the MRA framework, Korean food producers can receive halal labeling approval from domestic private agencies that are recognized by foreign authorities. This eliminates the need for time-consuming and costly inspections by overseas officials.
"The government will concentrate its efforts on the MRA issue so that Korean food companies can export more efficiently," Minister Song stated during a press conference. "We plan to invite global halal experts for consultations to bridge the gap between Korean private agencies and international regulatory standards."
Halal certification mandates strict compliance with Islamic dietary laws across the entire supply chain—covering ingredients, manufacturing, storage, and logistics.
K-Food Momentum in the Middle East
The push follows a successful showing at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai, the Middle East’s largest food trade fair. During the event, held from January 26 to 30, Korean firms signed 14 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) valued at approximately $8 million.
The highlights of the exhibition included:
Viral Favorites: Gimbap, tteokbokki, and instant noodles.
Premium Produce: Strawberries and Shine Muscat grapes.
Hanwoo (Korean Beef): Following the first-ever shipment to Dubai last September by a Gangwon Province cooperative, Hanwoo continues to gain traction as a luxury protein.
High-End Expansion: The Singapore Strategy
Following the Dubai event, Minister Song visited Singapore to celebrate the launch of Korean beef and pork in the local market. Singaporean authorities approved Korean health and safety standards for these meats last November.
At a promotional event at Marina Bay Sands, the Minister highlighted the unique positioning of Korean beef. "People in Singapore noted that Hanwoo offers a balanced flavor profile that distinguishes it from Japanese Wagyu or Western beef," Song said, echoing celebrity chef Ahn Sung-jae’s sentiment that the meat’s quality requires nothing more than a pinch of salt.
Government Support and Infrastructure
To sustain this export momentum, the Korean government has committed:
Financial Subsidies: Over 700 billion won ($478 million) allocated for exporting firms.
Global Logistics: Designation of 30 overseas embassies as "K-food export bases" to provide localized marketing and administrative support.
With Singapore serving as a gateway to high-income Southeast Asian consumers and the new Halal agreements opening doors to the Middle East, the Ministry expects a significant transformation in the trade environment for Korean agri-food products.
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