In response to rapidly changing global trade conditions, the Korea Customs Service (KCS) has announced the launch of the 2026 Origin Verification Support Program. This initiative is designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and micro-businesses enhance their capacity for origin management, a critical factor in international trade compliance. The program aims to proactively support companies in meeting foreign origin verification requirements, particularly in light of evolving US customs policies. By providing specialized consulting, KCS seeks to mitigate risks associated with origin verification and facilitate smoother export processes for Korean businesses.
The program specifically targets SMEs and micro-businesses engaged in exports to the United States, with approximately 134 companies expected to benefit. Selected firms will receive on-site, tailored consulting from certified customs agents who have completed specialized training in origin verification advisory. Consulting covers essential topics such as preparing and storing origin documentation, drafting verification response manuals, conducting mock origin audits, and utilizing the FTA-PASS origin management system. The cost of consulting is subsidized up to KRW 2 million, with the exact amount determined by company size and evaluation grade.
Implementation of the program spans from February to June 2026, with key milestones including business briefings at six regional customs offices (Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daegu, Gwangju, Pyeongtaek) from February 4 to 6, and application submissions accepted from February 9 to 20. After applications are reviewed, selected companies will be matched with consultants, and the consulting process will be completed by the first half of the year. Priority is given to US-exporting SMEs, followed by additional selection criteria set by each customs office, such as preference for micro-businesses.
Frequently asked questions include: How can companies apply for support? Firms may apply via the KCS FTA portal between February 9 and 20, 2026. What costs are involved for participating companies? Consulting fees are subsidized based on annual sales, with no cost for firms under KRW 50 billion in sales, and partial costs for larger SMEs. What are the main benefits? Participating companies gain improved origin management, reduced verification risks, and streamlined FTA certificate issuance. For more details, refer to KCS and FTA portal announcements or attend regional briefings.
Metaqsol opinion: The Korea Customs Service’s origin verification support program is a timely and strategic response to the increasing complexity of global trade regulations, especially for exports to the US. By focusing on SMEs and micro-businesses, the initiative addresses a critical vulnerability in Korea’s export sector and helps companies build robust compliance systems. The combination of expert consulting, financial support, and practical tools like FTA-PASS ensures that participating firms can meet international standards efficiently. This policy sets a strong precedent for government-led support in trade compliance and risk management.