Taiwan’s May vegetable outlook shows sharp rise in watermelon and cucumber output

Taiwan’s May vegetable outlook shows uneven production across major crops, with summer vegetables increasing while several cool-season items decline as temperatures rise.

According to the Agriculture and Food Agency under Taiwan’s Ministry of Agriculture, the May estimate points to stronger output for watermelon, cucumber and cabbage, while Chinese cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower are lower than in April.

Cabbage production is estimated at 38,927 tonnes from 608 hectares. This is 34% higher than in April, as harvests from high-altitude areas enter the market. However, the volume is still 16% below the same period last year.

Chinese cabbage is estimated at 1,855 tonnes, down 24% from April and 40% lower year-on-year. The agency said warmer weather is less suitable for the crop, with current supply mainly coming from heat-tolerant varieties.

Broccoli and cauliflower also show a monthly decline. Broccoli production is estimated at 936 tonnes, 60% lower than in April, while cauliflower is estimated at 1,844 tonnes, down 20%. Short-term leafy vegetables are estimated at 11,521 tonnes, slightly higher than both April and last year.

Among fruit vegetables, cucumber production is estimated at 5,804 tonnes, up 67% from April. Loofah output stands at 6,650 tonnes, 23% higher than April but 16% lower than last year, mainly due to disease pressure in some areas.

Watermelon records the strongest monthly increase. May production is estimated at 28,233 tonnes, up 363% from April, as the first crop reaches peak harvest in areas including Hualien, Yunlin, Chiayi and Tainan.

For root and stem crops, green onion output is estimated at 6,441 tonnes, down 15% from April. First-crop ginger production is estimated at 24,611 tonnes, 6% lower year-on-year, while garlic production is estimated at 51,622 tonnes, up 9% from last year.

source and photo: afa.gov.tw