Most Korean goods enter the US at 0% tariff

Under KORUS (in effect since 2012), the large majority of Korean consumer goods, food products, cosmetics, and industrial products qualify for 0% duty into the US. Require a Certificate of Origin from your Korean supplier and claim KORUS rates through your US customs broker at entry.

Government-backed supplier matching at no cost

KOTRA's Business Partnership service matches international buyers with verified Korean suppliers — free of charge, funded by the Korean government. Submit your product category and requirements at kotra.or.kr. KOTRA offices in your country can also facilitate direct introductions.

What to verify before any commercial relationship

Every Korean supplier should hold HACCP (food) or KFDA manufacturing license (cosmetics) at minimum. For US import: FDA establishment registration is mandatory for food, cosmetics, supplements, and medical devices. Always request certificates with expiry dates — not verbal claims.

What Korean exporters typically expect

Most Korean manufacturers work on FOB Busan or Incheon Incoterms. Standard payment: 30% deposit, 70% against bill of lading. Lead times vary by category — 4–8 weeks for manufactured goods, 2–4 weeks for food. Always confirm MOQ, lead time, and quality inspection rights in writing before placing an order.