Korea’s top automakers Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors aim to export 60,000 cars to Iran in 2016, an executive from Hyundai Motor Group said Friday.

‘‘The group has increased its sales target by 240 percent from 25,000 cars sold in Iran last year,” Hyundai Motor CEO Jeong Jin-hang said.

He made the sales projection in a meeting with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy on targeting the reopened Iranian market. The company’s car exports came to a halt in 2012 after the international community imposed sanctions on the Middle Eastern country due to its nuclear program.

In addition, the Korean automotive group will expand its Complete Knock Down products for Iran. CKD refers to semi-knockdown products that are assembled in the local markets.

To support Korean firms in increasing outbound shipments to Iran, the ministry will help ease financial difficulties that companies may face in advancing into the new market. 

“Iran’s exports are expected to grow 5.8 percent this year and 6.7 percent next year. The government will build a stable payment system and strengthen financial support,” said Trade Minister Ju Hyeong-hwan.

By Jo He-rim (herim@heraldcorp.com)