Since October 23, 2025, the export of pork and pork products from Germany to South Korea has been possible again. As the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Home Affairs (BMLEH) announced, the Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) lifted the import restrictions imposed in January 2025 due to the FMD case in Brandenburg
South Korea has lifted the import ban on German pork, which was imposed following the single outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Germany in January of this year. This means that pork and pork products can once again be exported from Germany to South Korea – provided that the existing requirements related to African swine fever (ASF) continue to be met. The German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection (BMLEH) has published an updated veterinary certificate in this regard.
South Korea is one of the most important non-EU importers of German pork. In 2024, South Korea was the third most important non-EU importer of German pork, after the United Kingdom and Vietnam, with approximately 51,000 tons (including by-products). In terms of revenue, the country was even the second most important destination for German pork outside the EU. Exports of pork bellies to South Korea are particularly important for German exporters.
Following the temporary ban due to the FMD outbreak, exports were suspended in recent months. With the lifting of restrictions, German companies can now supply the Korean market again. Regarding African swine fever (ASF), a regionalization agreement between Germany and South Korea was negotiated in May 2023 and remains in effect.
