Chairman of the Korea International Trade Association Delivers 2026 New Year's Address
"Trade Led Economic Resurgence Even in Unfavorable Conditions"
"Responding to Trade Order Reorganization and Advancing Export Support"
Yoon Jin-sik, Chairman of the Korea International Trade Association, emphasized in his New Year's address that innovation is essential to respond to the uncertainties of the global economic order. He stated that the association aims to transform itself into a trade support platform that is closer to the field to drive economic resurgence.
In his 2026 New Year's address released on the 29th, Chairman Yoon said, "Korean trade has always paved new paths in the midst of crises," and stressed, "Even under unfavorable conditions, it was the traders who expanded markets, turned signs of change into opportunities, and led our economy's resurgence ahead of others." He added, "In the new year as well, I hope we can open a new horizon for Korean trade together with the same strength and solidarity."
While expressing concerns about the uncertainty of the global trade environment, Chairman Yoon pointed out, "The less clear the road ahead, the more we need to set a direction and move forward boldly, rather than stopping." He diagnosed, "Countries are raising protectionist barriers under the pretext of economic security, and with regional conflicts and strategic competition intertwined, geopolitical uncertainty continues. In this environment where uncertainty has become the norm, our trade sector is once again facing a critical test."
He presented the following as key tasks: proactive response to the reorganization of the global trade order, advancement of export support infrastructure based on artificial intelligence (AI), establishment of a growth ladder to support corporate growth, and innovation of trade infrastructure. He stated, "To respond flexibly to the ever-changing external trade environment, the association will focus on new trade, new industries, and new markets as core keywords, and will support the overseas expansion of our trade sector in a more multidimensional and systematic way."
Chairman Yoon said, "In 2025, despite unprecedented internal and external conditions, our trade sector achieved a milestone, with exports expected to surpass 700 billion dollars. This achievement is by no means a coincidence. It was made possible by the dedication of traders who protected the field with boundless passion and tireless effort even in the face of crisis."
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