Taitung County Government
The Taitung County Government plays a vital role in promoting and developing the agricultural, aquaculture, and agri-tourism sectors in Taitung, Taiwan. The region, known for its pristine environment and rich biodiversity, is a major producer of premium agricultural products, including rice, tea, tropical fruits, and seafood. Through strategic government initiatives, Taitung County has positioned itself as a leading exporter of high-quality agricultural goods to global markets.
Core Business
As a government agency, the Taitung County Government is responsible for:
- Agricultural development through subsidies, research, and policy implementation.
- Support for farmers and agribusinesses with training programs, financial aid, and infrastructure development.
- Promoting sustainable farming practices to ensure eco-friendly and high-yield agriculture.
- Boosting global trade by assisting local producers in accessing international markets.
Product and Service Offerings
Taitung County is home to a diverse range of premium agricultural products cultivated with traditional and modern farming techniques.
1. Premium Rice Production
- Taitung is known for high-quality rice varieties, cultivated using natural irrigation and traditional farming methods.
- Rice exports contribute to over USD 30 million annually, with key markets including Japan, South Korea, and the United States.
2. High-Value Fruits
- The region produces sugar apples, pineapples, mangoes, citrus fruits, and dragon fruits.
- Sugar apple exports account for 80% of Taiwan’s total production, with an estimated annual trade value of USD 50 million.
- Mango exports from Taitung represent 30% of Taiwan’s total mango exports, reaching markets such as Japan and Singapore.
3. Specialty Tea
- Taitung’s mountainous terrain provides ideal conditions for cultivating Oolong tea and Red Oolong tea.
- The Oolong tea industry generates over USD 20 million annually, with international recognition for its distinct aroma and taste.
4. Seafood Industry
- Sailfish and other fish species are harvested using sustainable fishing methods.
- The region’s fisheries contribute over USD 15 million annually, with export demand rising in Japan and South Korea.
5. Vegetable Production
- A variety of local vegetables are grown under pesticide-free and organic farming practices, ensuring high nutritional value and safety for consumers.
Specialization and Core USP
The Taitung County Government stands out for:
- Organic and Sustainable Farming: Strong emphasis on eco-friendly agriculture, pesticide-free production, and sustainable seafood harvesting.
- Export-Oriented Growth: The county has established trade links with over 30 countries, focusing on premium markets in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Europe.
- Government-Backed Quality Assurance: All products undergo strict GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) and HACCP certifications, ensuring compliance with global food safety standards.
- Support for Indigenous Farmers: The government provides resources and subsidies to local indigenous communities, ensuring inclusive agricultural development.
Financial Performance & Trade Statistics
- Taiwan’s total agricultural exports reached USD 7.2 billion in 2023, with Taitung contributing significantly through rice, fruit, and tea exports.
- Sugar apple exports from Taitung alone generate USD 50 million annually, with major buyers in China, Hong Kong, and Japan.
- Taitung’s tea industry produces over 1,500 metric tons of premium Oolong tea annually, with exports growing at a steady 8% per year.
- Seafood exports from Taitung have increased by 12% year-over-year, reflecting rising global demand for sustainable Taiwanese fish products.
Certifications and Compliance
To ensure global market acceptance, Taitung’s agricultural sector adheres to:
- HACCP & ISO 22000 certifications for food safety.
- GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) Certification for fresh produce and tea plantations.
- Sustainable Fisheries Certification to promote responsible seafood harvesting.
- Organic Certification Programs supporting pesticide-free fruit and vegetable production.
Market Expansion and Trade Partnerships
Taitung County has established strong trade relationships with Japan, South Korea, the United States, and the European Union, leveraging its agricultural diversity and high-quality production standards. Recent initiatives include:
- Trade missions and agricultural expos in Japan and South Korea, promoting Taitung’s premium fruit and tea.
- Collaboration with international buyers to expand distribution channels for Taiwanese rice and seafood.
- Government-backed export subsidies to support local farmers in entering global markets.
Major Achievements
- Taiwan’s Leading Sugar Apple Producer: 80% of Taiwan’s sugar apples come from Taitung, making it a key global supplier.
- Oolong Tea Excellence Award: Recognized internationally for producing some of Taiwan’s finest Oolong and Red Oolong teas.
- Successful Expansion into the Japanese Market: A 30% increase in Taiwanese fruit exports to Japan in the past five years, largely driven by Taitung’s mango and sugar apple production.
- Sustainable Agriculture Initiatives: Winner of Taiwan’s Best Agricultural Sustainability Program, promoting eco-friendly farming and biodiversity protection.
With a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and global trade, the Taitung County Government continues to strengthen Taiwan’s agricultural industry and ensure its position as a top producer of premium food products.
