Brunei Darussalam Strengthens Trade Ties with the Republic of Korea through ASEAN–Korea Trade Facilitation Mission, Creating Market Access Opportunities for Local MSMEs

Bandar Seri Begawan, 02 February 2026 – Brunei Darussalam reaffirmed its commitment to economic diversification and international trade integration during the recent hosting of the ASEAN–Korea Trade Facilitation Mission, held from 2 to 3 February 2026 in Bandar Seri Begawan. The mission created direct opportunities for Bruneian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to engage with Korean importers, gain market insights, and explore pathways to expand beyond the limited domestic market. 

The mission was organised by the ASEAN–Korea Centre (AKC) in collaboration with the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA), and with the strong support from the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB). Through this platform, Bruneian MSMEs were connected to international buyers and exposed to Korea’s import requirements, consumer preferences, and regulatory environment—key considerations for enterprises seeking to enter or scale within export markets. 

The ASEAN–Korea Trade Facilitation Mission focused on identifying new trade and investment opportunities between ASEAN Member States and the Republic of Korea, fostering sustainable and mutually beneficial economic partnerships, and addressing information and access gaps that often limit MSME participation in international trade. For Bruneian enterprises, the mission served as a practical entry point into regional value chains by facilitating dialogue, business matching, and relationship-building with potential overseas partners. 

While modest in market size, Brunei Darussalam was positioned during the mission as a high-income, stable, and credible trade partner, supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals and a clear national strategy to broaden its economic base. Participants were introduced to Brunei’s evolving trade ecosystem and emerging opportunities in priority sectors, including food and beverage, premium consumer goods, logistics, and related services—sectors where local enterprises have demonstrated strong interest and growing export readiness. 

The Brunei leg of the mission commenced with a Business Forum held at the Radisson Hotel, featuring opening remarks by His Excellency Kim Jae-shin, Secretary-General of the ASEAN–Korea Centre, and Ms. Youn Young-mi, Chairwoman of the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA). Congratulatory remarks were delivered by His Excellency Sun Nahmkook, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Brunei Darussalam. 

The forum also featured a keynote address by Dr Hajah May Fae’zah binti Haji Ahmad Ariffin, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance and Economy, who highlighted that Brunei Darussalam’s approach to economic development goes beyond promotion alone. She emphasised the importance of connecting local enterprises to international demand, strengthening trade linkages, and ensuring that global engagement contributes to sustainable growth, particularly by creating practical opportunities for MSMEs to access regional and international markets. 

The programme was complemented by thematic presentations on Brunei Darussalam’s trade facilitation framework, utilisation of free trade agreements, and market access opportunities, alongside briefings on Korea’s import regulations and consumer trends. Structured business matching sessions enabled Bruneian enterprises to engage directly with Korean importers, allowing companies to assess commercial fit, understand buyer expectations, and explore potential export collaborations. 

On 3 February 2026, the delegation participated in industrial visits to the Bruneian Made Hub and Ghanim International Corporation Sdn. Bhd., providing first-hand exposure to Brunei’s local products, manufacturing capabilities, quality standards, and export processes. These visits demonstrated the tangible progress of Bruneian MSMEs in strengthening product standards, enhancing operational readiness, and positioning themselves to compete in regional and international markets. 

BEDB’s support for the mission reflects its broader approach to economic development beyond promotion—connecting local enterprises to international demand, strengthening trade linkages, and ensuring that global engagement translates into sustainable domestic growth. Through initiatives such as the ASEAN–Korea Trade Facilitation Mission, BEDB continues to play a catalytic role in enabling MSMEs to access new markets, diversify revenue streams, and build resilience through internationalisation.