Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (South Korea)

The Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFRA) is a cabinet-level government entity in South Korea responsible for overseeing the nation's agricultural, forestry, livestock, food, and fisheries industries. MAFRA's primary functions include formulating and implementing policies related to food security, agricultural production, rural development, forestry management, animal husbandry, fisheries management, and food industry promotion. It aims to enhance the competitiveness of South Korean agricultural products, improve the livelihoods of farmers, foresters, and fishermen, and ensure a stable and safe food supply for the population.

Key responsibilities of MAFRA include:

• Agricultural Policy: Developing and implementing policies related to crop production, land management, agricultural technology, and market stabilization.
• Livestock Management: Overseeing animal health and disease control, promoting livestock breeding, and ensuring the welfare of livestock animals.
• Forestry Management: Managing national forests, promoting sustainable forestry practices, and preventing forest fires.
• Fisheries Management: Regulating fisheries resources, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and supporting the development of the fishing industry.
• Food Industry Promotion: Supporting the development and innovation of the food processing industry, ensuring food safety, and promoting the export of Korean food products.
• Rural Development: Implementing programs to improve the quality of life in rural areas, promote rural tourism, and support rural communities.
• Food Security: Ensuring a stable supply of food for the nation's population, including through imports and strategic reserves.

MAFRA works in close collaboration with other government agencies, research institutions, agricultural cooperatives, and industry associations to achieve its goals. The Ministry plays a significant role in shaping South Korea's agricultural landscape and ensuring the sustainable management of its natural resources related to food production.