15/06/2026
π°π· Market Sensing in South Korea
As part of the Philippine participation in Seoul Food & Hotel 2026, the FOODPhilippines delegation conducted market visits across key retail outlets in South Korea to better understand consumer preferences, product trends, and opportunities for Philippine food exports.
Visits to Lotte Mart Zettaplex, Asia Mart & Foreign Food Mart Itaewon, and Shinsegae Food Market revealed a strong presence of convenience and ready-to-eat food products, alongside a growing demand for agricultural and health-oriented offerings.
The visits also highlighted the importance of product localization, with Korean-language packaging and labeling playing a key role in reaching local consumers. Retail presentation, packaging quality, and shelf appeal were likewise observed as important factors in premium retail environments.
Philippine products, including fresh bananas and selected Filipino food items, were also spotted across retail channels, reflecting the country's growing presence in the South Korean market.
These market insights help guide Philippine exporters in developing products that are responsive to market demands and better positioned for success in South Korea and beyond.
This participation is organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) through FOODPhilippines, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Seoul (PTIC-Seoul).
***
Organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the Philippines takes center stage as the Country of Honor at the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) in 2026. CITEM also organizes IFEX Philippines, the country's biggest business-to-business and export-oriented international trade show for food, beverage, and ingredients, set on 20-22 May 2027 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City.