Founded in 1946, KITA is the largest business association and one of the most influential economic organizations in Korea, with 65,000 member companies and numerous offices in Korea and abroad.

The organization¡¯s key roles are two-fold: providing support for member companies and working to remove obstacles that prevent trade and international commerce; and on the global level, promoting free trade and facilitating the signing of free trade
agreements between Korea and its trading partners around the globe.

With its headquarters located in the Korea World Trade Center in Samseong-dong in the heart of Seoul, as well as 11 offices in South Korea and seven branch offices abroad, KITA collects, analyzes and publishes economic data and surveys that help its members make informed and accurate business decisions.

The association oversees trade fairs and exhibitions that involve its member companies, provides consultation for developing overseas markets, and acts as the link between Korean and foreign companies, and government agencies involved in commerce and trade.

The services provided by KITA are indispensable resources for Korean companies operating abroad. The association provides translation services, web site creation and maintenance support, human resource management support, and a wide variety of other programs designed to aid day-to-day business operations.

KITA also utilizes the network of Korean expatriates and Korean-owned businesses abroad to manage a cooperative matrix of Korean firms and entrepreneurs who have already blazed a path in the global market.

In recent years KITA has expanded its resources online to provide timely and on-site support to its members.

Tradekorea.com, a new B2B website, e-catalogues and other information resources make up the association¡¯s global export support package that helps companies compose offers, inquiries, contracts and other vital documents as well as establish marketing programs and expansion strategies.

Another key role of KITA involves trade shows and exhibitions, which have become one of the most important tools for global trading companies. KITA matches global buyers with leading Korean companies through expert consultants, tours and pays personalized attention to visiting buyers in order to maximize business opportunities during the duration of their visit to Korea.

In addition, KITA runs exhibitions in major cities around the world to introduce top Korean products to overseas buyers and marketers.

Furthermore, KITA has lately launched diverse supporting projects such as ¡®Trade SOS,¡¯ a new trade consulting and support team; ¡®Specialized Trading Company,¡¯ a program to link the designated leading exporting companies with promising local
manufacturers; and ¡®New Exporters 300,¡¯

in which KITA selects promising member companies and provides intensive customized support, including consulting service, translation services, and key information about buyers and overseas marketing.