KIEMSTA – Korea International Exhibition of Machinery, Science and Technology for Agriculture

The Exhibition

KIEMSTA is the most important international exhibition for agricultural machinery, equipment, science and technology in South Korea. The fair takes place every two years in autumn in Daegu, South Korea. In 2018, 458 companies from 28 countries presented the latest technologies and trends to over 100,000 visitors from 22 countries.

The Market

Opening up the Korean market by setting up branches or sales representatives is a challenge, especially for small and medium-sized companies. In principle, German manufacturers are very welcome in South Korea. Nevertheless, companies face numerous administrative, cultural and language hurdles. Market entry into the Korean market usually succeeds via a local importer/agent. However, the Koreans attach great importance to personal relationships with decision-makers from Germany.

South Korea is one of the largest trading nations in the world. In terms of added value in the manufacturing sector, the country is right behind Germany and takes fifth place worldwide. South Korea’s importance has increased, becoming the 10th largest economy in the world during the coronavirus pandemic. According to South Korean customs, South Korea imported goods worth 615 billion US dollars (US$) in 2021, 3.6 percent of which came from Germany. Modern technology is in high demand and “Made in Germany” enjoys a positive image in South Korea.