[ANDONG, Gyeongbuk] – Gyeongsangbuk-do (Gyeongbuk Province) announced on February 19, 2026, a massive investment plan totaling 344 billion won for the agricultural food distribution sector. The initiative aims to strengthen the global competitiveness of local produce and processed foods, riding the wave of the increasing international popularity of Korean culture and cuisine.

Leveraging the "APEC Effect"
The province plans to turn the success of the 2025 APEC Summit in Gyeongju into a long-term economic gain. During the summit, Gyeongbuk’s agricultural products were showcased to world leaders and delegates, significantly boosting brand recognition.

Moving forward, the provincial government will focus on expanding market channels in APEC member nations, including Japan, Vietnam, and Singapore, by increasing participation in international food expos and strengthening local marketing efforts.

 
Key Pillars of the 2026 Strategy
To ensure a systematic transition from local production to global consumption, the province has outlined several core focus areas:

1. Global Food Strategy & Modernization The province is currently conducting research to establish the "Gyeongbuk Food Globalization Strategy." This roadmap will integrate food, culture, and tourism.

Infrastructure: 8.2 billion won will be allocated to 13 small and medium-sized processing enterprises to modernize facilities.
Premium Branding: Andong Soju, a traditional distilled spirit with a 750-year history, will be promoted as a global premium brand through international liquor fairs.

2. Smart Distribution through AI and Digitalization Gyeongbuk is leading a "Great Transformation" in agricultural distribution by shifting to digital-based smart systems.

Smart APCs: Since 2023, 38.3 billion won has been invested in 16 Smart Agricultural Product Processing Centers (APCs).
Future Funding: With an additional 16.2 billion won secured through national government grants for 2026, the province will further scale the use of AI-driven sorting and distribution technologies.

3. Strategic Market Expansion A total of 20 billion won is earmarked for customized overseas marketing. This includes:

Operating 10 permanent overseas sales centers across 8 countries.
Supporting 13 local companies to attend international food fairs.
Hosting invitation-only export consultations for global buyers.

4. Diversifying Domestic Sales and Stabilizing Farm Income To support local farmers, 486 billion won will be invested in diversifying sales channels.

Online Growth: Enhancing the provincial shopping mall "Cyso" (사이소) through new product discovery and partnerships with major e-commerce platforms.
Direct Interaction: Expanding "Baro Markets" (direct-to-consumer markets) in major metropolitan areas and utilizing Live Commerce and TV Home Shopping.
 
A Sustainable Roadmap for K-Food
"The achievement of our agricultural sector is no longer confined to the domestic market," a provincial official stated. "By integrating AI technology into distribution and leveraging our cultural heritage, we will ensure that Gyeongbuk's agricultural products become a staple in kitchens worldwide."

With the sales of Gyeongbuk’s food manufacturing industry reaching 4.79 trillion won in 2024, this new investment is expected to act as a catalyst for reaching record-breaking export figures by the end of the 2026 fiscal year.

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