Seoul: South Korea will establish a new office to help U.S. companies facing potential challenges from the country's non-tariff trade measures, Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo announced during a meeting with members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM), including AMCHAM Chairman James Kim. The U.S. Help Desk will be launched under the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) to assist American businesses in operating more efficiently in Korea.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the trade minister pledged to enhance the manufacturing partnership with the U.S. in strategic sectors such as shipbuilding, automobile, semiconductor, biopharmaceutical, battery, and nuclear power. Yeo also encouraged U.S. investment in Korea's artificial intelligence industry and data centers, noting that trade uncertainties have decreased following a recent trade agreement between Seoul and Washington.

The trade minister highlighted that the new deal has secured better treatment for South Korean exporters in terms of U.S. tariffs compared to global competitors. AMCHAM Chairman James Kim expressed support for the Korea-U.S. tariff agreement and emphasized the need for ongoing communication as further bilateral trade discussions are anticipated.

Under the agreement, the U.S. administration reduced the reciprocal tariff rate for Korea to 15 percent from the initially proposed 25 percent and lowered auto tariffs on Korean cars to 15 percent from 25 percent. In return, South Korea committed to investing $350 billion in the U.S. for cooperation in advanced industries and agreed to purchase $100 billion worth of American energy products.