Seoul, January 2 (IANS). The growing global popularity of Korean cuisine has led to a surge in exports of Korean snacks and beverages last year.
According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, exports of snacks and confectionery reached a record US$706 million (706 crore) during the first 11 months of 2024, up 16.5 percent from a year earlier.
According to the report of news agency Yonhap, overseas sales of beverages also increased by 14.9 percent compared to the previous year to a new high of $609 million (609 million) due to strong demand in China, the US and Japan.
In this context, South Korean confectionery companies are actively expanding their presence in global markets to take advantage of the growing demand.
Lotte Wellfood Co. reported that overseas sales of its flagship chocolate stick Pepero in the first half of 2024 surpassed domestic sales for the first time. To further expand production and meet international demand, the company plans to operate a new papero production service in India in the second half of this year.
Orion Corporation is considering setting up a factory for its popular Turtle Chips in the US to meet growing demand. Notably, exports of baked goods such as pies increased by 18.9 percent compared to last year, driven by the popularity of unique products such as steamed buns and fish-shaped pastries.
This growth is being attributed to the growing influence of K-pop culture, which has increased global interest in local cuisine. Meanwhile, South Korea’s exports of agricultural products reached a record high during the first nine months of 2024, driven by strong demand for instant noodles, snacks and beverage products.
–IANS
FZ/KR
