‘America First’ Trade and Industrial Policy and the Crisis Response Strategies of the South Korean Export Industry
Sang-Ha Lee, Chunsu Lee · Korean Academy Of International Commerce · 2025
Purpose: This study examined the impact of Donald Trump’s ‘America First’ trade and industrial policy on the South Korean export industry. In addition, it developed a crisis response strategy for the South Korean export industry. Research design, data, and methodology: A literature review of academic papers, research reports, and press releases was conducted. Results: This study identified five response strategies: ① preparing for uncertainty due to America First 2.0, ② strengthening public relations toward the U.S. and reinforcing pre-negotiation strategies, ③ diversifying supply chains, ④ diversifying export markets and expanding domestic demand, and ⑤ strengthening export competitiveness through technological innovation. Conclusions: Economic policies and scenario plans should be established based on the crisis response strategies presented in this study to overcome the uncertainty of the South Korean economy and achieve sustainable growth.