Japan has become Taiwan's number one pineapple destination

In 2020 China was the No.1 destination for pineapples from Taiwan and received around 90% of Taiwanese pineapple exports. But its decision to no longer authorize its importation in March 2021 has forced Taiwanese professionals to seek new outlets for their pineapples.

 

 

According to data from the COA (Council of Agriculture) pineapple exports have already reached 18,222 tonnes, of which 11,286 tonnes (61.9%) were sold to Japan. This volume exported this year to Japan exceeds the total sold to this country over the past 10 years, the COA said. The volume exported to Japan is expected to continue to increase.

 

 

After China suspended imports of Taiwanese pineapples from March, the COA made efforts to develop other destinations for exports. New markets include the United States and South Korea. South Korea, after a few years of hiatus during which the country was sourcing from the Philippines and Indonesia, revived its demand for Taiwanese pineapples. The COA will work to promote the fruit in South Korea, a market deemed to be a priority for next year.

 

 

This year pineapple exports should reach 30,000 tonnes according to estimates from the DIA (Department of International Affairs).

 

 

Taiwan's climate provides an optimal environment for pineapple cultivation. The production includes fruits from imported varieties, such as 'smooth cayenne' or fruits from varieties developed locally such as Tainung varieties. The Tainung 17 (or Golden Diamond) variety is the most cultivated and exported variety, its optimum production period is between March and June.