Farmers in South Korea are actively opposing the government's ongoing discussions with the United States regarding tariffs, as the lead negotiator indicated potential reductions in barriers to agricultural imports. While the trade ministry considers agricultural matters integral to its broader tariff negotiations, farmer groups, the agricultural ministry, and some lawmakers argue the sector should not be compromised for other industries like manufacturing.
The Korean Successor Advanced Farmers Federation (KAFF) threatened collective action if the government increases imports of U.S. agricultural products. During a rally near the presidential office in Yongsan District, central Seoul, KAFF stated, "We will not overlook if the government removes tariff and nontariff barriers on agricultural and livestock products without our farmers' consent."
This protest follows Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo's comments that "the agricultural sector is what we need to make strategic decisions on … While protecting it, there are aspects to consider in the entire frame of negotiations." These remarks came after talks in the U.S. about tariffs. Washington has requested that Korea lift its ban on U.S. beef from cattle over 30 months old and ease restrictions on apples and pears. KAFF criticized Yeo's comments as "irresponsible," highlighting their concerns about increased U.S. imports impacting local markets.
KAFF leaders argue the government should not use U.S. imports as leverage in tariff negotiations, warning this could harm 2.2 million Korean farmers and public health. Chairman Choi Heung-sik asserted, "Trade Minister Yeo said that agricultural produce has always been a subject of negotiation in free trade agreements. It indicates his anti-agricultural view and his willingness to give up the country's farming industry over its negotiation with the U.S. government." KAFF also criticizes the increase in agricultural imports from the U.S. since the 2007 free trade agreement.
Concerns extend to potential U.S. demands for expanded rice imports. Sinan County rice farmer and KAFF regional Chairman Hong Young-shin noted, "If we expand our rice TRQ and lower our tariff on U.S. rice imports as the U.S. wants, the Korean rice industry will no longer be sustainable."
North Chungcheong and North Gyeongsang Province farmers, along with ruling Democratic Party of Korea lawmakers, expressed concerns over more U.S. agricultural imports. They emphasize protecting domestic agriculture from external pressures, viewing current government actions as undermining the nation's agricultural sector.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs stated no decisions have been made, emphasizing a focus on public health and safety in tariff discussions with the U.S. government.
Source: The Korea Times
