The Korea Feed Manufacturers Association (KFA) purchased approximately 131,000 tons of corn for animal feed through an international tender held on October 15. The deal underscores South Korea’s efforts to strengthen feed grain reserves and support national food and livestock security.
KFA’s Incheon branch awarded the tender in two lots at approximately USD 234.90 per ton, including cost and freight (C&F).
- The first lot (65,000 tons) was awarded to CHS, scheduled to arrive in South Korea by January 5, 2026.
- The second lot (66,000 tons) was purchased from Olam, expected to arrive by January 30, 2026.
Shipping schedules and origins
Loading is expected between November and December 2025, depending on the region of origin. The corn will likely come from the US, South America, or South Africa. European and Black Sea origins were excluded due to ongoing geopolitical instability and freight insurance risks.
This purchase is part of KFA’s strategy to diversify sourcing origins, maintain feed inventories, and minimize exposure to global price volatility.
South Korea is one of Asia’s largest buyers of feed grain, importing around 10 million tons annually, mainly for livestock and poultry production.
Stabilizing domestic feed prices
Forward contracts help stabilize domestic feed prices and support South Korea’s highly industrialized meat and poultry sectors, which depend heavily on imported feed ingredients.
Corn accounts for nearly 50% of compound feed formulations nationwide, serving as the main energy source for broilers, layers, and swine.
Outlook for 2026 demand
Analysts expect South Korea’s demand for imported feed corn to remain stable or slightly higher in 2026, driven by the country’s expanding poultry production and strong consumer demand for affordable protein.
KFA’s latest purchase is seen as a strategic move to ensure supply continuity and price stability through early 2026.