In response to rising costs in the food industry, Gunsan City in South Korea has introduced a new initiative aimed at supporting local restaurants and cafeterias by promoting the use of locally produced rice. Under the 'Designated Management Project for Businesses Using Local Rice', restaurants that utilize high-quality rice grown in Gunsan can apply to be officially designated as 'Gunsan Rice Utilizing Businesses'. These designated businesses will receive financial assistance based on their purchases of local rice, helping to reduce operational costs for food service providers.

The program targets various entities within Gunsan, including collective cafeterias, general restaurants, and food processing companies, prioritizing collective cafeterias due to their large-scale operations. Starting from April, businesses recognized as 'Gunsan Rice Utilizing Businesses' will benefit from a subsidy of 5,000 won for every 20 kg of local rice purchased. This initiative is expected not only to make high-quality local rice more affordable for businesses but also to encourage consumers to choose safer and more trustworthy local agricultural products, thus providing a dual benefit for both suppliers and consumers.

Business owners interested in participating in this support program must apply at their local administrative welfare centers by the 18th of the month. Detailed information is available through Gunsan City's official website or by contacting relevant agricultural policy offices. Officials, including Park Yong-woo, have expressed hope that this assistance program will provide practical relief to small businesses facing material cost increases while promoting the consumption of locally cultivated rice, thereby establishing a self-sustaining local economy supported by community interest and engagement.