Representatives of the government and the business community met to discuss former President Donald Trump’s reelection and how it might affect trade. 

At a meeting presided over by Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Ahn Duk-geun on Thursday, participants exchanged views on the likely impact of the incoming Trump administration’s trade policies, which are widely seen as protectionist and anti-China.

Industry representatives asked Seoul to ensure a stable, cooperative relationship with the Trump government, emphasizing how South Korean firms benefit the U.S. economy through investments and job creation.

Ahn pledged to ease uncertainties for South Korean companies in the U.S. and to bolster cooperative ties between Seoul and Washington, drawing on prepared responses to different scenarios.

The minister promised to make efforts to consult with businesses in a timely and effective manner to reflect their concerns when responding to potential policy changes.