Taiwan's Agriculture and Food Agency (AFA) reported a projected decrease in pineapple cultivation area to 7,200 hectares in 2024, marking a 4% reduction from the previous year. Despite this, improvements in pineapple quality have been noted, with exports reaching 5,800 metric tons, indicating a trajectory to surpass the 20,000 metric ton annual target. Enhanced quality control measures have been implemented to eliminate instances of core rot, elevating the standard of produce available for export and domestic consumption.
The AFA highlighted the commencement of the peak harvest season, with robust export sales contributing to the stabilization of domestic pineapple prices. Current market evaluations show a selling price of NT$30 (US$1) per kg, approximately twice the cost of production, thus ensuring profitability for local farmers.
The ongoing suspension of pineapple imports by China poses a significant challenge, prompting a strategic pivot towards diversifying export markets, with Japan identified as a primary market and efforts underway to explore opportunities in emerging markets such as Brunei.
Addressing the potential re-entry into the Chinese market, the AFA advises a pragmatic focus on consolidating presence in established and emerging markets, with particular emphasis on Japan's pivotal role in Taiwan's pineapple export strategy.
Source: taiwannews.com.tw