Gumi Economy Shows Signs of Recovery in 2026... Business Outlook Rises for Second Consecutive Quarter

First Quarter BSI Reaches 83, Up Three Points from Previous Quarter, Signaling Recovery
Exceeds National Average of 77, Textile and Chemical Sectors Lead with Stable BSI of 100
2025 Exports Expected to Reach 28 Billion Dollars
Accelerated Transformation Centered on New Industries Such as Semiconductors and Defense

According to a survey conducted by the Gumi Chamber of Commerce and Industry from December 1 to 12, 2025, targeting 100 manufacturing companies in the region, the Business Survey Index (BSI) for Gumi in the first quarter of 2026 recorded 83, continuing its upward trend from the previous quarter's 80.

This figure significantly exceeds the national average of 77, indicating that companies in Gumi are experiencing a faster economic recovery compared to other regions.

Photo of the exterior of Gumi Chamber of Commerce and Industry

In particular, the textile and chemical sectors recorded a BSI of 100, raising expectations for economic improvement, while both the electrical and electronics sector (83) and large and small-to-medium enterprises (83) showed equally positive outlooks.

Additionally, despite external uncertainties, the annual export volume for Gumi in 2025 is expected to reach approximately 28 billion dollars, similar to the previous year, serving as a strong pillar for the regional economy.

The Gumi Chamber of Commerce and Industry assessed that, despite challenging business conditions such as high exchange rates, Gumi has successfully improved its industrial structure, focusing on new industries like semiconductors and defense.

Looking ahead, the city's competitiveness as a 'business-friendly city' is expected to be further strengthened through efforts to attract AI data centers and expand the network connecting to the new airport's hinterland city.

Shim Kyujeong, Team Leader at the Gumi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized, "Despite uncertainties in the trade environment, such as high exchange rates and high tariffs, Gumi's exports in 2025 are expected to be around 28 billion dollars, similar to last year, which is a solid performance. Gumi must continue to evolve into a more attractive and business-friendly city by expanding R&D infrastructure centered on new industries such as semiconductors and defense, improving cultural and residential conditions such as hotels, attracting AI data centers, and enhancing connectivity to the new airport's hinterland city."