• Korea Trade Review
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• v.43 no.1
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• pp.153-176
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• 2018

Since entering into force on June 1st, 2007, the Korea·ASEAN FTA has had great strategic importance as it represents a massive export market for Korea. For more than 10 years since its implementation, the trade in both goods and services have greatly increased, and ASEAN has become the second largest export market for Korea. However, Korea's FTA utilization rate for exports is approximately 46%, which is far lower than the average rate of 72% for all FTAs, despite several revisions. In this study, we investigate the problems causing this low rate of FTA utilization for export by analyzing import clearance disputes faced by the counterpart. Our recommended countermeasures for such disputes are : Since form requirements for C/O (certificate of origin) are important considerations for ASEAN countries, C/O needs to be written accurately. Understanding of the administrative system and regulative procedures of ASEAN countries is also necessary. Accurate HS code of importing countries must be obtained. Korean government authorities should make diplomatic effort to ease the import clearance procedures in counterpart countries and contact customs offices to facilitate communication.