K-Food Fair in New York Secures $12 Million in Export Deals

South Korean food products are making significant inroads into the North and Central American markets, evidenced by the success of the "2026 North and Central America K-Food Fair" held in New York. The event, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT), generated approximately $12 million in export agreements.

The Business-to-Business (B2B) export consultation fair, which took place on August 18-19 in Manhattan, saw 38 South Korean food export companies engage with over 70 buyers from the United States, Canada, and various Central and South American regions. The fair aimed to identify new trade partners across the entire North and Central American market.

A networking reception on August 18 brought together around 150 participants, including export companies, buyers, and local food industry representatives. Attendees had the opportunity to sample Korean food, such as Ssamjang-based dishes, allowing them to experience Korean cuisine firsthand.

The export consultations on August 19 were structured around four key themes: K-Wellness, K-Snacks, K-Convenience Foods, and K-Flavors. The product showcase included a diverse range of items, from fresh produce and inner beauty products to snacks, desserts, beverages, ready-to-eat meals, kimchi, sauces, and pastes.

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The U.S. has established itself as our largest export market for agricultural and food products since 2024, and there is still significant room for K-food to grow.

Notably, the fair capitalized on the growing wellness trend in North America, driven by the increasing use of weight management treatments like Wegovy and Ozempic, and a general rise in health consciousness. Products that align with this trend, such as low-calorie, high-protein, and gluten-free options, garnered significant attention. Specifically, the K-Wellness category saw $5 million in Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signed for products like konjac jelly, protein drinks, and soy-based protein noodles.

The United States has solidified its position as the largest export market for Korean food. In the first half of this year, exports to the U.S. increased by 11.3% compared to the same period last year, reaching $1.04 billion. Korean products like ramen, snacks, kimchi, and pears are strengthening their presence in the U.S. market.

Jeon Ki-chan, aT's Director of Export Food, expressed optimism about the future, stating, "The U.S. has established itself as our largest export market for agricultural and food products since 2024, and there is still significant room for K-food to grow." He added that aT plans to expand the popularity of ramen and snacks to fermented foods, convenience meals, and fresh produce, and will provide unwavering support for Korean companies venturing into markets beyond North America, including Central and South America.

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We will expand the popularity of ramen and snacks to fermented foods, convenience meals, and fresh produce, and will provide unwavering support for Korean companies venturing into markets beyond North America, including Central and South America.