Jeju:Seoul The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) has announced a significant increase in exports for businesses participating in its Global Micro Enterprise Development program. The initiative, launched in 2026, aims to assist micro enterprises with promising consumer products in expanding their sales to international markets.
According to Ministry of SMES and Startups, the program offers export training and financial support, including up to KRW 100 million for product development and participation in trade fairs. This year, 92 out of 100 selected businesses achieved exports totaling USD 7.06 million by September 2026, marking a 56.3% increase from the previous year's USD 4.52 million. These enterprises have expanded their market reach from 44 to 75 countries, including new markets such as Russia, Eastern Europe, and Africa.
Notably, six businesses that had no exports last year have successfully made their first overseas sales. Among the participants, Samon, led by CEO Son Sohee, and Dermis, led by CEO Park Hyunsin, have made notable progress. Samon exported healthy snacks worth approximately USD 11,000, while Dermis increased its cosmetics exports from USD 38,000 in 2024 to USD 270,000 in 2026. Both companies were recognized with ministerial awards at the K-Micro Enterprise Insight Day during the Local Startup Festa in Jeju.
The festival, which took place from November 4 to 6, drew around 1,000 participants, including local entrepreneurs, investors, and overseas buyers. It showcased Korean micro enterprises' products and facilitated export contracts worth KRW 1.6 billion for seven local businesses. The event also featured letters of intent from buyers in China and Hong Kong, indicating potential future business partnerships.
Meetings during the event provided opportunities for businesses to explore new sales channels and partnerships. MSS plans to further support these enterprises by connecting them with relevant programs to facilitate future export sales and investments. Kim Jeongju, Director General for Micro Enterprise Policy at MSS, emphasized the growing international interest in Korean consumer products and the ministry's commitment to supporting innovative micro enterprises in reaching global markets.