The Korea Trade Association met with U.S. government and congressional officials to discuss the investment achievements of Korean companies in the United States and to request support for improving the investment environment.
According to industry sources, the association visited Washington, D.C., from June 29 to July 1, alongside the Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Association and the Korea Iron and Steel Association, to conduct outreach activities targeting the U.S. administration and Congress.
Led by Lee In-ho, the association's executive vice president, the delegation met with officials from the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to highlight the contributions of Korean companies to stabilizing U.S. supply chains, revitalizing local economies, and creating jobs. They also conveyed the investment challenges faced locally and requested the establishment of a stable investment environment.
This visit comes ahead of the announcement of findings related to the U.S. Trade Act Section 301 forced labor measures and excess production investigations, reflecting a proactive approach to potential changes in trade policy.
The delegation also met with U.S. Representative Buddy Carter from Georgia, co-chair of the House Korea Caucus, along with Representatives Joe Wilson and Mike Kelly, to share insights on the investment and employment status of Korean companies. They proposed improvements to secure skilled labor, including expanding tax incentives and establishing a dedicated visa quota for Koreans.
On June 30, the trade association hosted a 'K-Industry Reception' attended by over 80 representatives from companies like Samsung, Hyundai Motor, LG, HD Hyundai, POSCO, and Hyundai Steel, along with congressional staff. Participants discussed the investment achievements of Korean companies and strategies to enhance U.S.-Korea economic cooperation.
Lee In-ho stated, "The $350 billion investment in the U.S. will play a crucial role in stabilizing supply chains and fostering cooperation in advanced industries between the U.S. and Korea. We will continue to communicate closely with the U.S. government and Congress to address the challenges faced by domestic companies."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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