Taiwan Farmers Raise Food Safety Concerns Over US Imports

Taiwanese peanut prices may drop to approximately 40% of current levels due to US peanut imports benefiting from zero tariffs and special defense measure exemptions. US peanuts may enter the Taiwan market at low prices due to the US-Taiwan Reciprocal Trade Agreement. Kuomintang legislator Lai Shih-pao questioned Finance Minister Chuang Tsui-yun in the Legislative Yuan regarding the timing of US peanut imports. Lai expressed concerns that zero-tariff imports under the US-Taiwan Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) could impact the domestic peanut industry. The minister stated they are waiting for US confirmation regarding the ART negotiations before the matter is sent to the legislature. The current value of peanut crop conversion in Taiwan is 13,500 units, according to the source. Agriculture Minister Chen Chun-ji committed to the Legislative Yuan that all processed peanut products must clearly label their original country of origin. The minister stated that imported peanuts cannot be labeled as 'Made in Taiwan' to ensure national fairness. This measure aims to establish a distinct brand for authentic Taiwanese peanuts. The ministry will monitor compliance to prevent mislabeling of foreign raw materials. Critics argue that inspection rates of 1% or less are insufficient to prevent contamination, such as aflatoxin. Some officials have suggested transitioning farmers from peanut cultivation to millet or soybeans to compete with US imports.