The Ministry of Agriculture in Taiwan is responding to the postponed 32% tariffs on its edamame exports to the U.S. Premier Cho Jung-tai and Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih convened with stakeholders in Pingtung, including those from the frozen vegetable and fruit sectors, to discuss a support package valued at NT$88 billion (U.S.$2.72 billion), as reported by CNA.
Chen outlined plans to allocate U.S.$556 million for financial aid and market diversification, aiming to stabilize Taiwan's agricultural exports. The package includes interest subsidies, cold chain upgrades, certification assistance, and marketing improvements. Measures are also included to bolster edamame production and market expansion both domestically and abroad.
A tariff response task force will be established in collaboration with the frozen vegetables and fruits association to monitor and strategize against the U.S. tariffs' impacts
According to the Agriculture and Food Agency, Taiwan produced over 77,000 tons of edamame last year, with 45% exported. Japan is the leading destination, taking 73% of exports, followed by the U.S. at 19%. The U.S. imports about 40,000 tons of frozen edamame annually, with China supplying 70% and Taiwan a smaller share of 10% to 15%.
The agency valued Taiwan's edamame production at approximately NT$2.98 billion last year, highlighting its importance as a key agricultural export with NT$2.3 billion in foreign exchange earnings. Wei Tung-chi from a frozen vegetables and fruits association noted Taiwan's previous lead in edamame exports to Japan, now surpassed by China, partly due to crop losses from typhoons. Concerns were raised about China's potential increased exports to Japan amid U.S. tariffs.
Source: Taiwan News
