South Korea's trade ministry said Tuesday it has settled 62 cases of non-tariff barriers this year, helping businesses maintain $9 billion worth of exports.

The World Trade Organization members maintained 4,149 technical barriers to trade (TBT) as of November, up from 4,068 tallied in 2023, according to data compiled by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy.

TBTs, which include consumer safety standards and energy and environmental requirements, are often used as non-tariff restrictions on exports.

"We plan to utilize bilateral and multilateral communication channels and lead global standards for key technologies to address TBTs," said Jin Jong-wook, head of the standards agency.

The ministry, meanwhile, granted certificates of recognition to 19 business officials, including those from SK On Co. and Hyundai Motor Co., for making notable efforts to address TBTs. (Yonhap)