The Korean government has initiated emergency policy measures to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) affected by recent instability in the Middle East. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy convened a meeting on March 5, 2026, at the Seoul Trade Center to discuss urgent support strategies. This response follows the activation of an emergency task force since February 28, 2026, monitoring oil and gas supply, industrial supply chains, and export logistics. The policy aims to address export disruptions, rising logistics costs, and liquidity challenges for SMEs exporting to the region.
The new support measures target SMEs and mid-sized companies with export contracts or records in the Middle East. Key agencies involved include KOTRA, Korea Trade Insurance Corporation, Korea International Trade Association, and the Small and Medium Business Corporation. Industry representatives highlighted difficulties such as shipping delays, increased freight surcharges, delayed export payments, and challenges in finding new buyers. The government will collaborate with export support agencies to deliver rapid assistance and connect affected companies with relevant resources.
Starting March 11, 2026, KOTRA will offer emergency export vouchers and introduce new subsidy categories for logistics return costs and war risk surcharges. Severely affected companies can access a fast-track process, receiving vouchers within three days of application. The Korea Trade Insurance Corporation will expand export production guarantees up to 1.5 times, extend guarantee maturities, and provide advance insurance payments for swift compensation. Additional support includes free overseas credit investigations, Trade-sure consulting, and enhanced overseas marketing for alternative market exploration.
Frequently asked questions include how to access support and which companies qualify. SMEs with Middle East export contracts or records can apply for emergency vouchers and financial aid. Support is available through KOTRA (1600-7119, https://www.kotra.or.kr/) and Korea International Trade Association (02-6000-5935, https://www.kita.net/). The government is also building a database of urgent export companies and providing real-time logistics information. For further inquiries, contact the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy’s Trade Policy Division at 044-203-4022.
Korea’s emergency export support measures are timely and targeted, addressing the specific challenges SMEs face due to Middle East instability. The combination of financial aid, logistics subsidies, and fast-track processes ensures that affected companies receive rapid assistance. The involvement of multiple agencies and the creation of a database for urgent export companies enhance coordination and effectiveness. By also supporting alternative market exploration and providing real-time information, the policy strengthens the resilience of Korean SMEs in uncertain global conditions.