The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS, Minister OH Youngju) announced on Monday, May 26 that it will implement an additional “Overseas Export Regulation Response Support Program” to strengthen SMEs’ capabilities in responding to foreign export regulations.

This support program is being promoted through a supplementary budget of KRW 10 billion, secured to alleviate the difficulties faced by Korean SMEs due to recent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. In particular, the initiative aims to provide relevant information and consulting services to companies seeking to pioneer new markets and to help them promptly obtain certifications required by export destination countries. The specific details are as follows.

① Support for obtaining overseas standard certifications

First, up to KRW 100 million per company will be subsidized to cover 50–70% of the costs for testing, certification, and consulting required to obtain standard certifications mandated by export destination countries. In particular, under this supplementary program, the support limit for small-scale certifications, previously allowed without a cap for up to 4 applications, will be temporarily raised from KRW 35 million to KRW 50 million. In addition, companies already participating in the MSS Overseas Certification Support Program with ongoing certifications will exceptionally be allowed to take part in this program as well.

② Introduction of preliminary certification review and diagnosis

A preliminary consulting system will be introduced to assist novice companies in obtaining overseas certifications without trial and error. Certification experts will conduct advance reviews for individual companies to assess whether the necessary documentation and preparations for on-site inspections (factory audits) are in place. By identifying and addressing any deficiencies in advance, the system is expected to minimize the risk of certification failure.

③ Provision of export regulation related information and expert consulting, and hosting of briefing sessions

To provide the latest information on export regulations, including changes in U.S. tariff policies—and to promptly address companies’ inquiries and difficulties, a dedicated response team composed of experts such as customs brokers will be operated. In addition, an ‘AI chatbot consultation’ system will be established to enable real-time access and inquiries. Furthermore, export regulation and customs briefing sessions, along with expert consultations, will be held across 15 regions nationwide for local companies. Guidebooks and videos outlining major overseas certifications and preparation procedures will also be produced and distributed.

LEE Soon-bae, Director General for Global Growth Policy, stated, “The recent U.S. tariff measures present a significant challenge for companies, but they can also serve as an opportunity to enter new markets.” He added, “We will continue to expand policy support to help our SMEs diversify exports and broaden their economic reach through successful acquisition of overseas certifications and more.”

Applications for participation in the Overseas Certification Support Program will begin on Tuesday, May 27. Detailed information about this program and the Overseas Export Regulation Response Support Program can be found on the website of the Overseas Certification Support Center (www.smes.go.kr/globalcerti).