CEO's Message Since 1962 as part of the KoreaÕs first 5-year Economic Plan, KOTRA has been dedicated to creating new export markets and increasing KoreaÕs trade value, which reached $1 trillion in 2011. In the late 1990s, the agency helped Korea overcome the Financial Crisis by starting its foreign direct investment promotion division. And in the last half century, KOTRA has played a significant role in supporting Korean companies expanding overseas. Today, the world economy is more volatile than ever due to the European financial crisis, China's hindered economic growth, upcoming elections in 15 countries and security issues in the Middle East. In preparation for a rapidly changing market environment, and using KoreaÕs expansive FTA network, KOTRA is focusing on the globalization of SMEs, the backbone of the Korean economy, by providing them with customized support related to global business establishment and export. To further expand KoreaÕs trade sector, KOTRA is increasing the exports of new growth industries such as the knowledge service industry, medical-bio industry and green industry. The culture-based Korean Wave is making economic waves as well with its high export value. By supporting these and other industries, KOTRA contributes to the economic development of Korea and developing countries through technological innovation, industrial infrastructure formation and HR development. We invite you to be a part of our journey of growth.