Overseas expansion of SMEs holds great significance for the national economy as it promotes export, business growth, and domestic employment. In light of the above, MSS offers various programs aimed at helping SMEs expand their operations and gain entry into the global value chain (GVC), including government loans, K-WAVE marketing, e-commerce support, and overseas hubs.
Support Tailored to Export Capabilities
MSS provides diverse support programs tailored to export capabilities of SMEs. The "Export Voucher Program" allows SMEs selected through a global capabilities evaluation to choose the types and providers of export support services. This program provides support packages that cover all stages of export and global expansion such as brand/design development, overseas certifications, training on international trade, overseas market surveys, visits to expositions, and establishment of local corporations. Such programs are provided by Export Support Centers set up at each regional office of MSS, which provide onestop services for the SMEs.
Expanded Foundation for Overseas Expansion
MSS operates online/offline programs to help capable SMEs expand into overseas markets. Offline supports include exhibitions and promotional events tied up with global K-WAVE events organized by large companies, as well as provision of office spaces and accounting/legal consultation for SMEs seeking to open branches or set up business overseas. As for online support, it helps SMEs sell their products through global online marketplaces such as Rakuten, Amazon, and Taobao; it also promotes SME products on product-dedicated pages that target overseas buyers, and provides marketing training.
These programs are aimed at securing new markets and buyers for SMEs, thereby building a secure footing for their growth into sound middle-standing companies and “hidden champions.”