The Ministry of Agriculture's Agriculture and Food Agency in Taiwan plans to enhance greenhouse and screen house numbers dedicated to fruit cultivation. This move aims to assist farmers dealing with adverse weather impacts.
The agency noted an unusual increase in the nation's fruit prices, following last year's typhoons and recent cold fronts.
Previous initiatives promoting greenhouses had limited success due to high costs, low farmer incentives, and the extended maturation period of fruit trees. Costs frequently surpass NT$1.2 million (US$39,969) per fen (969.91m2), the agency mentioned.
Deputy Director-General of the Agriculture and Food Agency, Chen Chi-jung, outlined plans to lift restrictions on fruits eligible for support and to increase subsidies. These subsidies would increase 50% for western Taiwan farms, 60% for eastern Taiwan, and 65% for farms on indigenous lands or outlying islands. The agency also offers low-interest loans to ease financial burdens.
Data from the Taipei Fruit and Vegetable Wholesale Market highlight a 30% rise in pineapple, guava, and banana prices compared to the previous year, correlating with a supply decrease. Weather disruptions affected the typical harvest cycle, leading to reduced mango pollination and diminished yields. Pears and pineapples saw a 10% drop, and lemons faced delayed market entry.
Chen stated that the supply decline might impact prices. To counter this, the ministry reallocates portions of the harvest for wine and other products and expands cold-chain logistics to maintain quality. The agency also promotes exports through contract farming.
Source: Taipei Times