Cooperation on Food Security between the ROK and the UAE and the Expansion of Korean Halal Food into the Middle East

1. Bilateral Cooperation between the ROK and the UAE to Achieve Food Security 

On 28 January 2026, H.E. Song Miryrung, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK) met with H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). During the meeting, the two sides reached a shared understanding of the importance of food security and discussed practical measures for bilateral cooperation in this field. Minister Song proposed the conclusion of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure the continuation of practical bilateral cooperation on food security.  

As concrete measures for cooperation in agricultural technology, Minister Song proposed the establishment of the Republic of Korea’s Smart Farm Innovation Valley model, tailored to the UAE’s climatic conditions. The two sides agreed to cooperate in addressing food security challenges arising from climate change through collaborative research between agricultural research institutes and the sharing of information on genetic resources.  

In addition, Minister Song emphasised the importance of bilateral cooperation in the halal food sector, including cooperation on halal certification. Such cooperation will further facilitate the expansion of K-Food into the Middle Eastern market via the UAE, a regional strategic hub. Minister Song also requested the UAE’s cooperation to ensure that halal certification procedures proceed swiftly when the ROK’s halal certification bodies apply for mutual recognition.  

2. Encouragement for Korean Export Companies Participating in Gulfood 

Minister Song expressed her support and encouragement for Korean export companies participating in Gulfood 2026—the largest food and beverage trade show in the Middle East and Africa. During the event, Minister Song promoted halal-certified “hanwoo” (Korean beef) to influencers and consumers, and reviewed trends in the local halal food market and consumer preferences.

Gulfood 2026 is an international food and beverage trade show with over 40 years of history, and is expected this year to host approximately 8,500 companies from 195 countries. The Republic of Korea doubled the size of its national pavilion compared with the previous year, with 24 companies participating. Exporters of processed foods (e.g. Korean traditional fermented sauces, beverages, and snacks), as well as export consortia for fresh agricultural products (e.g. strawberries, kiwifruit, and grapes), held meetings with buyers and conducted promotional activities to expand their presence in the Middle Eastern market.  

3. K-Food Consumer Experience to Discover Korea  

Minister Song subsequently hosted the experiential K-Food promotional event linked to the K-Initiative, held at “Korea 360,” a promotional and experiential centre for Korean culture and Hallyu-related industries. The event, titled “K-Food: A Gateway to the Korean Experience,” was designed to allow local consumers to experience K-Food and Korean food culture alongside various elements of the K-Initiative, including K-pop, fashion, crafts, and the Korean language through themed booths. 

On the main stage, ten teams selected in advance were taught how to make “gimbap” by a local Korean chef and showcased their own creative gimbap and accompanying sauces during the event titled “Black & White Masters of Gimbap.” The main ingredients included “bulgogi” made with halal-certified Korean beef and stir-fried kimchi. In addition, a variety of Korean seasonings, such as assorted vegetables, sesame oil, “gochujang,” and “ssamjang” were provided.  

4. Listening to Opinions on K-Food from K-Food Supporters  

At a local Korean restaurant, Minister Song held a meeting with K-Food supporters, including members of the Korean Culture Club at Ajman University and the Top Club. The main menu featured a variety of dishes made with halal-certified Korean beef, including grilled hanwoo and marinated short ribs. The restaurant’s chef explained the distinctive strengths and superior quality of halal-certified hanwoo. Minister Song listened to a wide range of views from the supporters regarding their experiences with K-Food, including what initially sparked their interest in K-Food and the types of K-Food they regularly enjoy.

Minister Song said: “With halal food consumers accounting for 25 percent of the global population, the government views halal food as a key strategic area for export diversification. To expand exports of premium K-Food products, such as halal-certified hanwoo, strawberries, and grapes, we will further strengthen support for halal certification, expand overseas logistics infrastructure, and enhance marketing linked to the K-Initiative. In addition, through discussions with the UAE Government on strengthening cooperation in food security—including cooperation on smart farms, agricultural technology R&D, and K-halal food—we will continue to support Korean companies in expanding their presence in overseas markets.”