Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

About Taiwan Fermenting Food Industry Association

The Taiwan Fermenting Food Industry Association (TFFA) is a leading trade organization representing Taiwan’s fermented food manufacturers, exporters, and industry stakeholders. The association is committed to advancing traditional fermentation techniques, promoting food safety, and expanding the global presence of Taiwan’s fermenting food sector.

Industry Overview & Market Impact

Taiwan has a rich tradition of fermented food production, with a strong reputation for high-quality soy sauce, miso, pickled vegetables, natto, and fermented tea products. The industry plays a crucial role in Taiwan’s food sector, contributing significantly to both domestic consumption and international trade.

• Annual Market Size: The Taiwanese fermented food industry generates over NT$40 billion (~USD 1.3 billion) annually.
• Export Value: In 2023, Taiwan exported over USD 500 million in fermented food products.
• Key Export Markets: Japan, China, the United States, South Korea, and Southeast Asia.
• Product Categories:
  • Soy sauce & miso: Taiwan exports over USD 150 million annually.
  • Fermented vegetables (kimchi, pickled bamboo shoots, mustard greens): USD 120 million in exports.
  • Natto & fermented soybean products: Increasing demand, particularly in Japan and South Korea.
  • Fermented tea (Pu-erh, kombucha, black tea): Over USD 80 million in global sales.

Core Functions & Role of the Association

The Taiwan Fermenting Food Industry Association (TFFA) supports its members through policy advocacy, trade promotion, quality control, and R&D initiatives.

1. Industry Development & Policy Advocacy

• Works with government agencies to establish food safety regulations and trade policies.
• Supports local businesses in obtaining export licenses and certifications.
• Collaborates with international trade bodies to facilitate global market access.

2. Quality Assurance & Safety Compliance

• Implements HACCP, ISO 22000, and FDA food safety regulations.
• Promotes the use of traditional fermentation techniques while ensuring modern safety standards.
• Encourages adoption of blockchain-based traceability systems for supply chain transparency.

3. Trade Promotion & Export Expansion

• Assists Taiwanese fermented food companies in securing international distribution channels.
• Organizes participation in global food trade shows and expos.
• Supports the development of free trade agreements to facilitate tariff-free exports.

4. Research & Development (R&D)

• Funds R&D for probiotic-rich fermented foods to meet growing consumer demand for gut health products.
• Supports innovation in low-sodium soy sauce, organic miso, and plant-based fermented foods.
• Encourages collaboration with Taiwanese universities and food research institutes for new product development.

Taiwan’s Fermenting Food Industry: Key Strengths

Taiwan’s fermented food industry benefits from a unique combination of traditional craftsmanship, advanced food science, and stringent safety standards.

1. Advanced Fermentation Technology

• Precision fermentation techniques to enhance flavor, texture, and shelf life.
• Automated brewing and fermentation systems to ensure consistency and high production efficiency.
• Probiotic-enriched fermented foods for health-conscious consumers.

2. Strong Export Performance

• Taiwan is a top supplier of fermented soy sauce to Japan and Southeast Asia.
• Global fermented vegetable exports grew by 15% in 2023, led by kimchi, pickled mustard greens, and radish pickles.
• Demand for Taiwan’s fermented tea products (Pu-erh, black tea, kombucha) increased by 18% year-over-year.

3. Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing

• Adoption of eco-friendly fermentation processes that reduce carbon emissions and waste.
• Fair-trade and organic sourcing policies for soybeans, tea leaves, and vegetables.
• Investment in recyclable and biodegradable packaging solutions.

Export Growth & International Market Expansion

Taiwan’s fermented food industry has seen consistent export growth, driven by rising global demand for probiotic-rich and functional foods.

• Japan Market: Taiwan is a key soy sauce and miso supplier, with exports exceeding USD 150 million annually.
• United States Market: Taiwanese fermented food exports to the U.S. grew by 22% in 2023, reaching USD 120 million.
• Southeast Asia & China: Strong demand for fermented pickled vegetables and soybean-based products in Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and China.

Certifications & Compliance

The Taiwan Fermenting Food Industry Association ensures that its members comply with international food safety and quality standards, including:

• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)
• ISO 22000 (Food Safety Management System)
• FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)
• EU & Japan Import Standards for Fermented Foods
• Halal & Kosher Certifications for expanding market reach.

Recent Initiatives & Industry Events

• Taipei International Food Expo 2023: Featured over 200 Taiwanese fermented food manufacturers.
• Taiwan-Japan Fermented Food Trade Agreement: Signed agreements worth USD 80 million for exporting soy sauce, miso, and fermented tea.
• Probiotic-Focused R&D Program: Investing in next-generation functional fermented foods, targeting gut health and immunity support.
• Sustainable Fermentation Practices Initiative: Encouraging the use of low-waste production methods and organic raw materials.

Future Outlook & Growth Strategy

The Taiwan Fermenting Food Industry Association (TFFA) aims to strengthen Taiwan’s leadership in the global fermented food industry through:

• Health & Wellness-Oriented Products: Expansion into probiotic-rich, plant-based, and organic fermented foods.
• Sustainable & Ethical Production: Adoption of carbon-neutral fermentation processes.
• E-commerce & Direct-to-Consumer Sales: Strengthening online retail and subscription-based fermented food delivery.
• AI & Smart Fermentation: Investing in AI-powered fermentation monitoring for precision brewing and enhanced food safety.

With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and market expansion, the Taiwan Fermenting Food Industry Association continues to drive growth and global recognition for Taiwan’s fermented food sector.