First Shovel for Export Shin Ramyun Production Base... Global Production to Double by 2026

Nongshim is tightening its grip on the global market by breaking ground for a new export-only production base, the 'Busan Noksan Export-Only Factory'. It is the third export production base for Nongshim, following the Busan and Gumi factories. When the factory is completed in 2026, Nongshim's annual export ramen production will increase to about 1.2 billion units, approximately doubling the current level.

Nongshim announced on the 27th that it held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Noksan export-only factory at the Busan Noksan National Industrial Complex on the 26th.

The Noksan export-only factory will be built on the available site (about 11,280㎡) of the existing dried noodle production facility, Noksan Factory, with a total floor area of about 48,100㎡. The goal is to complete it in the second half of 2026. After the completion of the Noksan export factory, Nongshim plans to initially operate three lines to produce 500 million units of ramen annually. Combining the production volume of the Busan factory (600 million units) and the Gumi factory's export production (100 million units), Nongshim's total annual export ramen production will increase to 1.2 billion units, approximately doubling the current level. Nongshim plans to increase production by expanding lines according to future overseas sales trends.

A Nongshim official said, "The Noksan export factory can increase production capacity to about three times the current level by adding up to eight lines in line with the growth trend of overseas markets," adding, "As we are preparing for a second global market leap centered on Shin Ramyun Tumba, we will establish production capabilities commensurate with that to solidify our status as a leading K-ramen company."

The Noksan export-only factory will be built by integrating the know-how of operating domestic and international factories for decades, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) smart factory technology. It will apply Nongshim's AI deep learning technology-based quality inspection system and a system that predicts and responds to potential issues using big data.

It will also acquire global quality certifications suitable for an export-only factory. In addition to ISO 9001 and FSSC 22000 certifications, it will respond to various regulations worldwide by obtaining sustainable palm oil association (RSPO) and halal certifications. Furthermore, to ensure sustainable management, it will operate as an environmentally friendly factory through energy-saving facilities and optimal energy use.

Based on the production capacity of the Noksan export factory, Nongshim plans to expand the sales of major products such as Shin Ramyun in Europe and launch new products tailored to local preferences to quadruple sales in the European region by 2030. In March, Nongshim established a European corporation, 'Nongshim Europe', in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

A Nongshim official said, "The Noksan export factory will also support the focused attack on the South American and Southwest Asian markets, which have growth potential in the ramen market."


ssuccu@fnnews.com Seo-Yeon Kim, Reporter