Korea to export more beef to Hong Kong

A Hanwoo Board official, left, speaks during a press conference to unveil strategies to boost sales and exports of hanwoo in 2019. / Courtesy of Hanwoo Board

By Kwak Yeon-soo

The Hanwoo Board plans to build a stronger distributor network and boost sales of premium Korean beef, called hanwoo, in Hong Kong, which was the biggest importer in 2018, the quasi-government body said Tuesday.

Hanwoo, which refers to cattle born and raised in Korea, ranks as one of the most desirable gifts for Korean holiday seasons such as Lunar New Year or Chuseok. The Hanwoo Board was set up in 2005 to promote sales of Korea's home-grown beef.

According to the Hanwoo Board, exports of hanwoo to Hong Kong have been increasing by an average of 11 percent each year since 2016. The total export volume in 2018 was 65.2 tons, up 14 percent from a year earlier.

The board official said that hanwoo has been gaining wide popularity among Hong Kong citizens as “premium” meat since it was first introduced in 2015.

“Hong Kong distributors say that Hanwoo is comparable to Japanese wagyu, but has a richer texture,” a Hanwoo Board official said. “In fact, hanwoo is sold at a similar price range as wagyu and is regarded as premium meat.”

The Hanwoo Board said it will operate a pop-up store and hold meetups and tasting sessions at “Restaurant & Bar Hong Kong 2019” scheduled from Sept. 3 to 5 to promote hanwoo in Hong Kong.

In the same month, the Hanwoo Board will invite Hong Kong beef distributors and reporters to Korea for a briefing on hanwoo's related industries. In October, it will also attend “Wine & Dine Festival” and operate a promotional booth.

Regarding the Hong Kong protest, which has been taking place for the 11th consecutive week, the official said, “We are watching very closely if consumer spending is affected by ongoing protests.”

The board mentioned that it aims to collaborate with hallyu stars to further solidify the positive image of hanwoo. “We aim to work closely with hallyu stars to further enhance the presence of premium hanwoo in the global markets” the official said.