Investment in Semiconductors and Secondary Batteries
"Responding to Uncertainties Such as U.S. Tariffs"
The Export-Import Bank of Korea announced on the 16th that it will invest 200 billion KRW to establish an advanced strategic industry investment fund worth 1 trillion KRW this year.
Yoon Hee-sung, President of the Export-Import Bank, attending the 'Supply Chain Stabilization Fund Launch Ceremony' held at the Export-Import Bank in Yeouido, Seoul, on September 5 last year, delivering the launch speech. Photo by Kang Jin-hyung
In 2023 and last year, the bank invested 150 billion KRW each year, creating a fund totaling 2.2 trillion KRW.
This year, the investment amount has been increased to 200 billion KRW. After selecting an asset management company and obtaining approval from the Minister of Strategy and Finance, the bank plans to establish a 1 trillion KRW fund within this year.
The bank explained, "We increased the investment amount due to growing economic uncertainties caused by U.S. tariff policies and other factors."
The advanced strategic industries target 62 items across five sectors: semiconductors, secondary batteries, bio, future mobility, and advanced electrical and electronics.
The bank operates the 'Advanced Strategic Industry Preferential Support Program,' which offers preferential conditions such as loan limits and interest rates when providing financial support to companies in advanced strategic industries.
In addition to advanced strategic industries, a new investment obligation for eco-friendly and low-carbon businesses such as renewable energy has been established to support the industrial structure transformation of domestic companies.
If invested companies newly acquire ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) related certifications, a portion of the profits will be paid as incentives to the asset management company.
An official from the bank stated, "We plan to induce private investment to secure competitive advantages in key export industries such as semiconductors and secondary batteries and to support the growth of promising industries."
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