Song Mi-ryong: Export Boom Comes at the Expense of Agriculture

 Song Mi-ryong, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, stated on May 28 that the recent export boom, primarily benefiting large corporations, has come at a cost to the agricultural sector.

During a press conference marking the first anniversary of the government's inauguration in Jeonbuk, she emphasized the need for social discussions regarding the damages incurred by agriculture during the economic opening. "It is difficult to assess accurately, but we must also address the sacrifices that the agricultural sector has endured. Initiating such discussions is a legitimate concern for the agricultural community," she said.

Minister Song cited the status of the Rural Cooperation Fund as an example. This fund is voluntarily established by private and public enterprises that benefit from free trade agreements (FTAs) to support welfare, education, infrastructure, and market access in rural areas. Launched in 2017 with a goal of raising 100 billion won annually for ten years, the fund has only reached about 300 billion won so far, prompting an extension until 2037.

"Currently, the Rural Cooperation Fund is far below its initial targets. It relies on the voluntary participation of the industry, which has not met expectations," Song noted, stressing the need for discussions on fundamental approaches and securing momentum.

When asked about utilizing the special rural tax from stock sales, she expressed hope that a thriving stock market would increase investment capacity in rural areas. "Considering that rural areas provide food, this is not wasted tax but an investment in South Korea's future," she said.

Regarding the recent Starbucks controversy, she expressed a desire for it to serve as a catalyst for revitalizing local businesses. "Mocking and belittling the pain in our society is a serious issue," she remarked, adding that it would be beneficial if cafes and bakeries in local neighborhoods offered a wider variety of beverages, such as omija tea, chrysanthemum tea, and green tea, rather than just coffee.

Song highlighted several achievements of the Lee Jae-myung administration in its first year, including the launch of a rural basic income pilot program, surpassing $10 billion in K-food exports, expanding support for eco-friendly agricultural products, and increasing the target for affordable breakfast programs. Future goals include enacting legislation related to rural basic income, aiming for K-food exports to exceed $16 billion, and preparing for summer agricultural supply.

"The main issue regarding rural basic income remains funding," she explained, announcing plans to reveal five additional selected areas next month. On K-food exports, she noted, "The halal market accounts for 20% of the global market, yet our export share is still very low. However, exports to the Middle East have increased by 38% compared to last year, which is encouraging."

The government is developing tailored strategies for K-food export growth this year, including appointing ambassadors for K-food in different regions. Song announced that the representative ambassador for the Chinese market will be esports player Faker, while Chef Edward Lee will represent North America.