KOIMA Discusses Cooperation with Ambassador Alvarez of Paraguay to Korea

Agreed to Discuss Lowering Tariff Barriers

The Korea Importers Association (KOIMA) announced on June 24 that it met with Miguel Angel Romero Alvarez, Ambassador of Paraguay to Korea, to discuss ways to cooperate in expanding trade between the two countries.

(From left) Yoon Youngmi, President of Korea Importers Association, Miguel Angel Romero Alvarez, Ambassador of Paraguay to Korea

Ambassador Alvarez emphasized that Paraguay is a country rich in agricultural products, resources, and energy, and highlighted the significant potential for expanding bilateral trade. In particular, he noted that the export of Paraguayan beef, which has been under active negotiation since last year, is now in the final review stage. He expressed hope that, following consultations early next year, Paraguayan beef will be able to enter the Korean market.

Additionally, Ambassador Alvarez pointed out that the high tariffs resulting from the absence of a free trade agreement (FTA) currently serve as a barrier to expanding trade between the two countries. He requested that both organizations actively cooperate in lowering tariff barriers through future intergovernmental discussions. Finally, he proposed strengthening cooperation for trade expansion through memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with Paraguayan industry associations and trade organizations, and also asked for active consideration of dispatching an import delegation to Paraguay.

In response, President Yoon stated that Paraguay is a key country that could serve as a gateway to the South American market and is a very important partner for food security and the stability of global supply chains. She added that KOIMA will continue to seek practical ways to expand trade between the two countries.