South Korea Export Price Growth Moderates to 40.9% in September
South Korea's export prices increased by 40.9% year-over-year in September 2026, marking a slight deceleration from the 42.4% gain recorded in August. On a month-over-month basis, the export price index declined by 0.8%. Despite the monthly slowdown, export values jumped 89.2% compared to the previous year, while export volumes expanded by 11.1%.
The annual growth in export prices was primarily fueled by manufactured goods, which surged 41%. Within manufacturing, computer, electronic, and optical equipment prices soared 108.3%. Energy-related exports also registered steep gains, with coal and petroleum products rising 78.2%, and chemical product prices growing 12.8%. Agricultural, forestry, and marine product prices posted a 26.7% increase. Overall trade conditions improved as the Net Barter Terms of Trade Index climbed 25.4% year-over-year.
Investors and market participants will monitor whether the monthly decline in export prices signals a stabilizing trend in global trade costs or if sustained momentum in high-tech and energy sectors will keep price pressures elevated in coming months.
Key points
- South Korea export prices increased 40.9% year-over-year in September 2026, easing from 42.4% in August.
- Computer, electronic, and optical equipment export prices jumped 108.3% compared to the prior year.
- The export price index dropped 0.8% on a month-over-month basis.
- Export volumes rose 11.1% year-over-year, while total export value climbed 89.2%.
- The Net Barter Terms of Trade Index rose 25.4% year-over-year.
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How we writeDisclaimerQuestions and answers
How much did South Korea export prices rise in September 2026?
South Korea export prices increased 40.9% year-over-year in September 2026, down slightly from a 42.4% gain in August. On a monthly basis, export prices fell 0.8%.
Which sectors led South Korea export price gains in September 2026?
Manufactured goods prices rose 41%, led by a 108.3% surge in computers, electronic, and optical equipment. Coal and petroleum product prices surged 78.2%, chemical products rose 12.8%, and agricultural, forestry, and marine products increased 26.7%.
How did South Korea export volumes and terms of trade perform in September 2026?
The Export Volume Index grew 11.1% year-over-year, while the Export Value Index surged 89.2%. Additionally, the Net Barter Terms of Trade Index increased by 25.4%.