The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) said it has been conducting urgent checks across export markets, grain flows, agricultural inputs and logistics since tensions escalated.
Officials assessed that short‑term risks remain contained, largely because exposure to the region is relatively modest and supply contracts and inventories are already in place.
Exports of agri‑food products to the Middle East accounted for U$430m in 2025, or 3.2 per cent of total agri‑food shipments, meaning any immediate disruption is likely to be small.
However, authorities expect some turbulence in logistics due to difficulties over the Strait of Hormuz and the suspension of certain air routes.
MAFRA prompted companies to prepare for potential adjustments to shipping schedules and higher freight costs.
It said it was gathering feedback from exporters through overseas offices and direct outreach and was reviewing support measures.
Exports of smart farm systems and agricultural machinery are also expected to remain largely unaffected, as only a small share relies on routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
Korean companies operating facilities in the UAE and Saudi Arabia have reported no damages to infrastructure or personnel to date. This included food and beverage company Nongshim, which was piloting greenhouse development in Saudi Arabia.
Grain and ag inputs
For grain imports, the ministry noted that wheat, corn, and soybeans sourced from Eastern Europe continue to travel via the Suez Canal rather than the Hormuz route, minimising exposure.
With sufficient volumes secured through the first half of the year, authorities do not anticipate immediate supply concerns but will continue tracking global grain markets and shipping costs.
Processed food manufacturers also face limited direct disruption because most raw materials are shipped through the Suez Canal.
However, MAFRA warned of indirect pressures from higher oil prices and exchange rate volatility and plans to monitor price and inventory trends for sensitive items in collaboration with industry.
Agricultural inputs, including fertiliser and feed, are similarly protected in the short term by existing contracts and stockpiles.
The ministry flagged urea as a potential risk, noting that some shipments do transit the Strait of Hormuz.
It said it was working with the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation and suppliers to prepare contingency plans, including potential diversification of sourcing.
Feed ingredients sourced from the US and South America were considered low‑risk due to ample advance contracting and inventory.
Despite the limited impact so far, MAFRA will tighten monitoring and has activated the Middle East Situation Monitoring and Industry Feedback Channel on March 9.
This will brings together government agencies and industry groups to conduct daily checks on exchange rates, energy prices, maritime logistics and supply‑demand trends, while collecting and resolving industry concerns in real time.
MAFRA added that agricultural attachés in the Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, will remain on alert and maintain close communication with Seoul.
“We cannot rule out the possibility that the Middle East situation could become prolonged, and we will continue to monitor developments closely. We will strengthen our monitoring and feedback channels and ensure that industry difficulties are addressed without delay,” said Park Soon‑yeon, Director General of Planning and Coordination at MAFRA.
