Buan Agricultural Cooperative (Buan Nonghyup), led by Kim Won-cheol, celebrated its latest success in exporting 115 tons of premium rice under the ‘Millennium Skill’ brand. This achievement surpasses the 2024 export target of 100 tons, highlighting a year of progress and innovation in Korean rice exports.
The cooperative’s efforts included shipments of:
- 40 tons to Canada in September,
- 10 tons to New Zealand in September,
- 10 tons to Australia in October,
- 55 tons to Canada in November.
These exports are part of Jeollabuk-do’s broader rice export plan of 1,100 tons, aimed at stabilizing domestic rice prices and expanding market opportunities for Korean farmers.
Quality and Innovation at the Forefront
The success of the ‘Millennium Skill’ rice stems from its superior quality and innovative logistics solutions. Buan Nonghyup utilized reefer containers (refrigerated shipping containers) to maintain optimal freshness and taste during transit. Advanced AI technology ensures proper moisture control, providing consistent cooking quality and enhancing the rice’s appeal in overseas markets. While refrigerated shipping increases costs by over 30% compared to conventional methods, the premium quality ensures competitiveness and high demand in global markets.
A Decade of Progress
This export milestone comes ten years after Buan’s first rice export to Mongolia in 2014. It reflects the region’s continuous commitment to quality and market expansion. Kim Won-cheol, head of Buan Nonghyup, expressed pride in reintroducing Buan’s premium rice to global markets, especially during a challenging period marked by declining domestic rice prices.
Kim also emphasized additional initiatives such as:
- Morning Rice Campaigns to encourage domestic rice consumption,
- Developing value-added rice products,
- Hosting events like the K-Rice Festa to promote Korean rice culture globally.
Buan Agricultural Cooperative’s export achievements showcase the potential of Korean agricultural products in international markets. With a focus on innovation, quality, and global outreach, Buan’s ‘Millennium Skill’ rice has set a benchmark for Korean exports. These efforts provide hope and opportunities for farmers struggling with domestic price fluctuations, while elevating Korea’s agricultural reputation on the world stage.
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