South Korea’s exports of dried seaweed exceed one trillion won for the first time

Data earlier in the week showed that South Korea’s exports of seaweed products exceeded one trillion won (770 million US dollars) for the first time thanks to growing demand from emerging markets.

This figure represents a growth of 18.8% from the 648 million dollars recorded a year ago, according to data compiled by the Ministry of oceans and Fisheries.

The ministry said that the number of export destinations reached 124, which is a sharp increase from only 64 in 2010.

Exports to the United States increased by 13% year-on-year to 156 million dollars in the period from January to November this year, followed by Japan with 134 million dollars, and China with 93 million dollars.

The data showed that exports to Thailand also increased by 53.6% during the period to USD 62 million.

Dried seaweed, often roasted with sesame oil and fine salt, is a popular side dish in Korean food.

“We plan to strengthen support for the seaweed industry to achieve billion-dollar exports by 2027,”said Oceans Minister Cho Seung-Hwan.