Korea Trade Insurance Corporation and Banks Enhance Export Financing Support

Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure) has partnered with banks to enhance export financing support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Amid increasing uncertainties in the global trade environment, the initiative aims to expand cooperative trade financing and strengthen support for regional exporters.

On June 16, K-Sure held the 3rd 'Bank Tree Forum' at the Westin Chosun Hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul, where it discussed export support measures with representatives from nine banks contributing to the trade insurance fund, as well as officials from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Financial Services Commission.

Launched in May 2025 under the slogan 'Trade Insurance Shared with Banks,' the Bank Tree Forum serves as a collaborative platform for the government and financial sector to address challenges and rapidly incorporate feedback into policies and systems.

During the forum, the operational achievements and future improvements of the 'Cooperative Trade Financing (SMILE: Supply-chain Miracle by Leverage)' program were key discussion points. This program combines bank and large enterprise contributions with K-Sure's guarantees to assist financing for cooperative SMEs.

K-Sure is also introducing flexible financial support measures in response to the rapidly changing external environment. It has improved its 'customized system for local subsidiaries' to assist Korean companies operating abroad and is expanding support for companies facing difficulties in securing raw materials due to supply chain disruptions by offering preferential import financing limits.

The scope of support will also extend to regional areas. K-Sure plans to introduce a new 'Preferential Financing Program for Regional Export Companies' based on contributions from local governments. This initiative aims to bolster the export competitiveness of SMEs in regions with relatively lower access to financial resources compared to the capital area, thereby stimulating local economies.

Jang Young-jin, President of K-Sure, stated, "Through the Bank Tree Forum, we have established a public-private partnership model that reflects the needs of banks and addresses on-site challenges in real time. We will continue to actively support the growth of our companies and the expansion of exports through cooperative trade financing involving banks, businesses, and our corporation."