PINGTUNG (TVBS News) — Taiwan unveiled an ambitious plan to fortify its lucrative orchid industry on Wednesday (April 16), as officials scramble to counter potential market disruptions from looming U.S. tariff policies. At a specialized forum in Pingtung, Taiwan's agricultural heartland, government officials outlined a comprehensive strategy focusing on financial assistance, technical innovation, and market diversification.
Agriculture Minister Hu Jong-i (胡忠一) underscored the economic significance of Taiwan's floral sector, which generated NT$18.5 billion (US$569 million) in revenue last year. Phalaenopsis orchids, Taiwan's signature export variety, accounted for NT$4.94 billion (US$152 million), with the American market representing NT$1.97 billion (US$60.6 million). Hu emphasized Taiwan's competitive edge in orchid diversity and research capabilities, bolstered by international varietal certification agreements with the European Union, Vietnam, and Japan.
To ease industry concerns, Hu assured orchid producers they would receive a 90-day buffer period to adjust to new market conditions. The Executive Yuan (行政院), Taiwan's cabinet, has prepared a flexible NT$18 billion (US$553.7 million) support package that can be modified based on ongoing trade negotiations. The comprehensive plan includes loan interest subsidies, specialized breeding and production technology guidance, and reinforced marketing efforts targeting both American buyers and domestic consumers.
Industry stakeholders expressed cautious optimism about the government's initiatives. Yang I-ping (楊怡萍), who leads the Taiwan Orchid Breeders Society (台灣蘭花育種者協會), a prominent industry association, acknowledged official commitments to support breeding programs and varietal testing throughout the tariff observation period. She highlighted strategic efforts to develop specialized religious ceremonial flowers that align with cultural practices in Southeast Asian markets, potentially opening alternative export channels. ★
