After a single FMD outbreak in early 2025, Seoul temporarily suspended imports of German pork to prevent the disease from entering the country. Now, following the official removal of restrictions, German exporters can once again supply their products to the South Korean market, provided they comply with the existing requirements related to African swine fever (ASF).
BMLEH has already published an updated veterinary certificate for exporters. Meanwhile, the regionalization agreement concerning ASF, signed between Germany and South Korea in May 2023, remains in effect. This agreement allows trade to continue even in the event of localized outbreaks, as long as the disease is confined to designated areas.
South Korea is one of the most significant non-EU export markets for German pork. In 2024, it ranked third among non-EU importers, after the United Kingdom and Vietnam, with total imports reaching around 51,000 tons, including by-products. In terms of revenue, South Korea was the second-largest destination for German pork outside the EU, surpassed only by the United Kingdom. Pork bellies, in particular, are among the most sought-after German exports in the Korean market.
The temporary ban, which lasted several months, had halted shipments, but exports are now resuming momentum following the reopening. Reestablishing access to the South Korean market is expected to provide a significant boost to German producers who have faced pressure from global price fluctuations and animal disease-related trade disruptions.
PigUA.info based on materials from euromeatnews.com