Korea Announces Updated Status of Disability Product Facilities and Procurement Agencies

The Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) announced on April 2, 2026, the updated status of designated production facilities for products made by persons with severe disabilities, along with information on direct contract proxy agencies. This announcement, Ministry of Health and Welfare Notice No. 2026-292, is made in accordance with Articles 17(7) and 19(2) of the Enforcement Decree of the Special Act on Priority Purchase of Products Made by Persons with Severe Disabilities.

This initiative is part of Korea’s broader social welfare policy aimed at promoting the employment and economic independence of individuals with severe disabilities. Under the Special Act, public institutions are mandated to prioritize the purchase of products manufactured by designated facilities that employ persons with severe disabilities. This policy helps create stable job opportunities and supports the sustainability of these social enterprises and workshops.

The latest update includes changes to the designation certificates of these production facilities, such as alterations in their representatives or locations. Furthermore, the notice provides current details on direct contract proxy agencies. These agencies play a crucial role by facilitating the procurement process, making it easier for public institutions to fulfill their priority purchase obligations and directly contract with the disability product facilities.

Detailed lists reflecting the status as of March 31, 2026, are available through downloadable attachments on the Ministry’s official website. These comprehensive documents include:

• Designated production facilities for products made by persons with severe disabilities.
• Sales facilities for products made by persons with disabilities.
• Designated agencies performing duties related to products made by persons with severe disabilities.

Stakeholders, including public institutions and disability welfare organizations, are encouraged to refer to the official notice and its attachments for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding these important social welfare programs.

Source: 보건복지부 — Original Article (Korean)