Thanks to the rapid economic growth and fast urbanization, Asia’s water industry has greater potential for growth than any other region in the world. The priorities of water policies vary slightly with the conditions of each country: seawater desalination is a major task for Arabian Gulf countries; the search for water sources for China; the treatment of polluted water for India; and the development of stable water resources for Southeast Asia countries. In particular, Singapore has emerged as a hub for the water industry, attracting renowned water producers from around the world after it successfully overcame its natural water shortages and disadvantageous geological structure, thanks to the government’s far-sighted and detailed strategies and investment in water supply projects. Jeju has, as its water source, spring water from rain that filters down through stone into underground stream flows and volcanic sea water with unlimited application possibilities. Therefore, the challenge Jeju faces right now is realizing one of Jeju's future visions by enhancing the value of Jeju water in connection with Samdasoo, which has become a top brand in the Korean market.
This session will illuminate the less-known values of Jeju Island's pollution-free environment and water and explore ways to level up Jeju’s water industry by pursuing cooperative projects with other Asian countries.