The Korea Import Expo (KIE) 2026 is South Korea’s only import-dedicated B2B trade exhibition, offering a highly targeted platform for foreign exporters seeking direct access to the Korean market. The event will be held from 23 to 25 June 2026 at COEX Exhibition Centre, specifically in Hall B, and will bring together global suppliers and Korean import stakeholders in a focused commercial environment.
The expo is organised by the Korea Importers Association, the country’s only private organisation exclusively dedicated to promoting imports, with over 55 years of experience in facilitating international trade into Korea. The event is further strengthened by institutional sponsorship from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE), the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), and several foreign embassies in Korea, giving it strong governmental and diplomatic backing.
KIE is widely recognised as a strategic entry point into the Korean market because it is purpose-built for imports. Unlike general trade fairs, every participating buyer is actively seeking international suppliers, making it a highly efficient platform for export market entry. The exhibition typically attracts participants from over 100 countries and around 250 international companies, all engaging directly with Korean importers, distributors, and retail buyers.
The 2026 edition will be staged across approximately 3,645 square metres of exhibition space and will feature around 200 booths. It is structured to maximise commercial engagement through a series of curated activities, including structured B2B business matching sessions, import-focused seminars, product showcases, and industry forums.
A central feature of the expo is its business matching programme, which connects overseas exhibitors directly with vetted Korean import companies through pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings. This model is designed to support efficient deal-making and accelerate the establishment of distribution channels in Korea. Complementary import seminars and industry forums provide exhibitors with practical insights into Korean import regulations, market trends, and distribution systems.
The event also provides a high-visibility product showcase platform, allowing international brands to present their products directly to buyers across food and beverages, cosmetics, fashion, household goods, technology, and other import categories. In addition, KIE maintains cooperation with the Korea-Africa Foundation, creating a structured channel that supports African exporters and strengthens Africa–Korea trade relations.
For Kenya, KIE represents a particularly strong opportunity due to its alignment with key export strengths. Kenyan products such as speciality tea and coffee, fresh horticultural produce, avocados, macadamia nuts, halal-certified foods, natural beauty ingredients, and artisanal goods are well matched to Korean import demand, particularly in premium, natural, and health-oriented product segments.
Participation in KIE 2026 offers Kenyan exporters several strategic advantages. First, it provides direct access to a buyer base that is exclusively focused on sourcing foreign products. Second, it leverages KOIMA’s extensive network of importers and distributors, built over decades of trade facilitation. Third, it benefits from strong government backing, which reduces entry barriers and enhances credibility in the Korean market.
The expo is also structured to support SMEs through relatively accessible booth pricing, with standard booths and space-only options across different zones, allowing flexibility based on scale and budget. Additional discounts are available for repeat exhibitors and KOIMA members, making participation more cost-effective over time.
Beyond immediate trade opportunities, KIE also serves as a knowledge platform, offering Kenyan exporters exposure to regulatory frameworks, consumer behaviour insights, and evolving distribution dynamics in Korea. This market intelligence is critical for firms seeking long-term export expansion.
Overall, the Korea Import Expo 2026 presents a focused, high-efficiency, and government-supported gateway into one of Asia’s most advanced import markets, offering Kenyan exporters a structured pathway to build sustainable trade relationships in South Korea.
Further information and registration details are available at: https://www.koimakif.com/en/index.do