Core Viewpoint - South Korea aims to achieve annual exports exceeding $700 billion for the second consecutive year by 2026, despite global trade uncertainties [1][2]. Group 1: Export Performance - In 2025, South Korea's exports are projected to surpass $700 billion for the first time, reversing earlier pessimistic forecasts [1][2]. - Last year, South Korea achieved a record export value of $709.7 billion, driven by growth in key sectors such as semiconductors, automobiles, and shipbuilding, as well as small and medium-sized industries like agriculture, water products, and cosmetics [1][2]. Group 2: Government Initiatives - The Minister of Trade emphasized that the recovery of market trust in South Korea and the conclusion of the Korea-U.S. trade agreement contributed to the positive export outlook [1][2]. - The Ministry of Trade plans to diversify export projects and destinations to counteract trade protectionism from major economies, including stronger steel safeguard measures from the European Union, while also upgrading infrastructure and providing financial support to exporting companies [1][2].

Core Insights - The European Union is developing new supply chain assessment regulations to clarify the responsibilities of companies in identifying, assessing, preventing, and bearing risks in their operations and supply chains [1][2] - Vietnam is a crucial part of many global supply chains, particularly in textiles, footwear, electronics, and agriculture [1] Group 1: Regulatory Impact - A survey by VCCI revealed that 59.3% of Vietnamese companies exporting to the EU have never heard of the EU's "supply chain assessment" regulations, indicating a significant gap between policy changes in Europe and the preparedness of Vietnamese enterprises [1] - Approximately 36.6% of other companies are aware of the regulations but lack a clear understanding, highlighting the need for better communication and education regarding these new requirements [1] Group 2: Supply Chain Due Diligence - Supply chain due diligence involves reviewing, assessing, and verifying the entire supply chain to identify, prevent, and minimize negative impacts on humans and the environment, ensuring compliance with ethical, sustainable, and legal standards [2] - Although the "supply chain assessment" regulations primarily apply to large enterprises, they encompass all participants in the supply chain, including suppliers, manufacturers, and transporters, thus imposing equal responsibilities on all entities involved in exporting to Europe [2] Group 3: Economic Context - Vietnam's exports to the EU reached $51.7 billion last year, benefiting from the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), which has contributed to a trade surplus with the EU [2] - The new EU regulations on "supply chain due diligence" will pose significant challenges for Vietnamese companies, which must comply with transparency, environmental responsibility, and human rights requirements to maintain sustainable trade [2]