TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Agriculture (MOA, 農業部) has launched an initiative to promote the reuse of agricultural byproducts and foster a circular economy. Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih (陳駿季) announced on Friday (June 27) that utilizing the pineapple plant can increase farmers' income by over NT$10,000 per hectare.
The ministry held a press conference at the Jiuru Township Farmers' Association (九如鄉農會) in Pingtung County, where Chen witnessed the shipment of the first 100 kilograms of pineapple leaf fiber. This fiber, destined for apparel manufacturing in the U.S., Japan, and Vietnam, demonstrates the tangible outcomes of circular agriculture. Chen noted that 100 kilograms of pineapple fiber can produce approximately 7,500 garments. The concept of circular agriculture makes the planet healthier, the official pointed out, stressing that pineapples are just the beginning, and more agricultural products could be fully utilized.
Kung Tai-wen (龔泰文), the Jiuru Township Farmers' Association's secretary-general, expressed hope for automated leaf extraction to reduce costs and increase profits with continued ministry support. MOA emphasized that achieving full resource recycling and zero waste in agriculture remains a crucial policy goal. Last year, the ministry supported the Jiuru Township Farmers' Association in adopting automated pineapple leaf fiber extraction equipment, improving fiber quality and production efficiency.
