Temporary Opening of International Flights at Gwangju Airport, Increased KTX Services at Songjeong Station
Extension of Winia Rehabilitation Procedure, Kumho Tire Plant Fire
The Gwangju Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced on July 21 that it had submitted 43 policy proposals and statements to the government and related agencies in the first half of this year, aimed at improving the regional economy and business environment.
The policy proposals covered a wide range of issues, from expanding key infrastructure such as Gwangju Airport, railways, roads, and industrial complexes, to resolving business challenges related to corporate rehabilitation, industrial accident response, export support, and institutional reforms. The Chamber was evaluated as having faithfully fulfilled its role as the region's leading economic organization.
The Chamber actively proposed improvements to transportation infrastructure to enhance Gwangju’s accessibility and logistics base, including the temporary opening of international flights at Gwangju Airport, increasing KTX train services at Gwangju Songjeong Station, urging exemption from the preliminary feasibility study for the Dalbit Inland Railway, and securing funding for the expansion of the Donggwangju-Gwangsan IC section of the Honam Expressway.
In addition, the Chamber responded swiftly to crises faced by local companies, such as submitting petitions and proposing institutional reforms to relevant agencies regarding the extension of the rehabilitation procedure for Winia Co., Ltd. and the fire at Kumho Tire’s Gwangju plant, as well as issuing prompt statements calling for rapid support.
The Chamber also submitted its opinion on the Fair Trade Commission’s proposed revision to the “Review Guidelines for Unfair Support Practices,” suggesting reasonable regulatory directions that reflect business realities. This proactive approach ensures that the business community’s perspective is reflected from the early stages of policy development.
Active communication with the political sector was also carried out. Ahead of the 21st presidential election, the Gwangju Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced 16 key policy pledges for the Gwangju business community on May 7. The Chamber has continued to engage in policy consultations and efforts to incorporate these pledges through policy meetings with Democratic Party lawmaker Jung Sung-ho and local National Assembly members.
Chairman Han Sangwon stated, "In the first half of the year, we have delivered practical and timely proposals and opinions on major regional issues and business challenges," and added, "In the second half, we plan to strengthen follow-up monitoring to ensure that the proposals made in the first half are adopted as national tasks, reflected in budgets, and lead to institutional improvements. We will focus on performance-oriented activities to ensure that the needs of businesses on the ground are actually reflected in policy."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
