South Korea's pet food exports experienced a significant surge in 2023, driven by strong growth in Japan and other Asian markets, increasing by over 7% compared to the previous year. According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) and the Korea Customs Service, exports of dog and cat food reached $160.86 million (approximately 234 billion KRW) in 2023, up 7.4% from $149.75 million in 2022.

Key Export Markets and Growth Factors

Korean pet food products are particularly popular in Japan, Thailand, and other Asian countries. The export figures for major countries in 2023 are as follows:

Japan: $62 million (38.6% of total exports)
Thailand: $24.64 million
Taiwan: $24.14 million
Vietnam: $14.70 million
Australia: $13.73 million
The growth is attributed to the high quality and safety of Korean pet food, as well as the expanding pet market in Asia.

Government Support and Industry Challenges

MAFRA aims to expand pet food exports to $500 million by 2027, focusing on premium and functional products. Vice Minister Park Beom-su of MAFRA visited a pet food production plant in Eumseong, Chungcheongbuk-do, to discuss government policies for export expansion and gather feedback from industry representatives.

Industry officials expressed difficulties related to insufficient information on export certification procedures and marketing burdens. In response, Vice Minister Park pledged to strengthen institutional frameworks, such as revising pet food labeling standards, and provide support for overseas certification, customized consulting, and overseas marketing to facilitate companies' access to international markets.

Future Outlook

The Korean pet food industry is considered a sector with high growth potential. With continued efforts from the government and industry, and ongoing quality improvements, Korean pet food is expected to enhance its competitiveness in the global market.

Additional Information

The global pet food market is also on the rise, with increasing demand for premium and specialized pet food products.
Korean pet food companies are focusing on developing products with natural ingredients and functional benefits to cater to the growing demand for high-quality pet food.
The Korean government is actively supporting the pet food industry through various initiatives, including research and development, marketing, and export promotion.