On the 13th, the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), led by Chairman Yoon Jin-sik, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Korea Software Industry Association (KOSA), chaired by Joe Jun-hee, at the Trade Tower in Samseong-dong, Gangnam, Seoul. This collaboration seeks to become a catalyst for accelerating AI transformation (AX) within the trade sector, ultimately enhancing export competitiveness in light of the rapidly changing external environment marked by protectionist tendencies and geopolitical risks.
Recent findings from KITA's survey on the utilization of AI by exporting companies revealed a stark contrast between perceived necessity and actual implementation, with only 17.9% of manufacturing firms actively integrating AI technologies into their operations. This highlights significant untapped potential for AI to drive efficiency and competitiveness in the sector.
The MOU outlines strategic initiatives between the two organizations, including business matching among member companies, the establishment of a collaborative consultative body to promote AX, talent development for AI specialists, and the identification and dissemination of best practices in AI utilization. These initiatives reflect a clear focus on empowering trade companies with the resources and knowledge necessary for effective AI integration.
A key collaborative effort will involve hosting a 'Business Networking Day' aimed at creating connections between exporting firms and AI/software enterprises. By providing business matching opportunities, this initiative is positioned to serve as a robust private-sector collaboration platform for trade-related AI transformation. Additionally, joint seminars to share successful AX case studies and one-on-one technology consultations will be offered, enabling customized consulting for each participating export company.
Chairman Yoon Jin-sik emphasized in his welcoming remarks the urgency of leveraging AI for functions such as discovering overseas buyers, optimizing supply chains, and predicting regulatory risks. He indicated that successful AX initiatives are not just beneficial but essential for providing a foothold for a new leap for the trade sector amidst unprecedented global uncertainties.
In conjunction, Chairman Joe Jun-hee articulated that the consultative body would serve as a focal point for effectively supporting the AI transformation in trade environments, enabling AI and software companies to expand into global markets collaboratively with the trade sector.
