A local think tank estimates the country’s exports will grow two-point-one percent next year.
 
In an economic and industrial outlook released Wednesday, the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade predicted a moderate turnaround of exports in 2016, citing the expected recovery of global trade among other things.
 
The institute also forecast the South Korean economy will grow three percent next year, although it cautioned external factors, such as impending U.S. interest rates hike and the slowing Chinese economy, will affect how much exports and the domestic economy grow.   
 
It noted the Chinese economic slowdown will have a negative effect, particularly on the exports of general machinery and fabric. It added the strengthened competitiveness of Chinese companies could also impede exports to China.  
 
The institute predicted home electronic appliance makers will grow strong next year among local industries.