As the Middle East situation prolongs, the food and restaurant industry has requested swift government support, stating that business conditions are deteriorating due to difficulties in procuring raw materials and packaging materials.
Thirteen related organizations, including the Korea Food Industry Association, stated in a joint petition on the 7th that "supply instability of naphtha is causing disruptions in securing major packaging materials such as vinyl, film, and PET containers," adding that "inventory for some items has decreased to approximately two weeks' worth."
The industry raised concerns about the stability of the overall supply chain, warning that if this situation continues, it could affect product manufacturing and restaurant operations across the board. They also emphasized that amid persistent high interest rates, high exchange rates, and high prices, cost burdens have increased to critical levels, making it difficult for companies to maintain normal business operations.
These organizations petitioned for a comprehensive response through cooperation among relevant government ministries, including: △priority supply of raw materials for food packaging △policy support to alleviate cost burdens △reasonable operation and timing adjustments of related regulations △preparation of support measures to expedite administrative and customs procedures.
Korea Food Industry Association Chairman Park Jin-sun said, "The food industry is a core livelihood industry directly connected to the survival of the people," and "The current situation is a critical time when instability across the entire food supply chain could expand beyond the level of individual companies." He added, "Swift and effective policy support from the government is crucial to maintaining stable food supply," and "We hope that policy support that can be felt in the field will be provided in a timely manner."