Kim In-ho, the newly appointed CEO of the Korea International Trade Association, on Thursday asked for more government support for improving the local business environment.

“These days, businessmen in Korea face numerous problems. If they are international issues, there is very little we can do. But in case of domestic problems, slight changes in government policies can bringing different and direct effects to the industry,” said Kim.
 

Kim started his three-year term on the day, leading the organization with 70,000 members ranging from large conglomerates to small and mid-sized companies.

“If a demand from businesses is legitimate, we will request it to the government,” the former CEO of the Fair Trade Commission said.

Kim, also a former chairman of the Market Economy Research Institute, noted that although Korea has achieved a lot through embracing globalization, it has also brought up many issues. He urged the government to put more focus on creating a business-friendly international environment.

“The government should carry out its role in balancing out international powers and finding the optimal point for the economy. Then businesses will do their best to maximize profit. This role should not be infringed,” he said.

KITA’s latest focus is the service industry.

“KITA will support the businesses that converge information communication technologies with the service sector including culture, health care, education and finance. We will try to support our members develop them into exportable products,” Kim said.

By Bae Ji-sook (baejisook@heraldcorp.com)