Taiwan Today
Date: March 4, 2016
Taiwan is establishing itself as a global supplier of premium tilapia on the back
Taiwan tilapia growers see ASC certification as vital to ensuring bigger hauls and healthier export numbers. (Courtesy of Council of Agriculture)
of local aquaculture operators gaining certification by Netherlands-based Aquaculture Stewardship Council.
Around two dozen farmers have gained the ASC certification since 2013, underscoring the commitment of the sector to maintaining the country’s competitive edge in farming the in-demand fish, according to Taiwan Tilapia Alliance.
TTA Chief Executive Officer Shih Yuan-yuan said ASC International Standards for Responsible Tilapia Aquaculture are the global benchmark and cover seven categories like animal welfare, disease control, environmental, labor and social practices.
“On top of ensuring Taiwan-raised tilapia meet the highest quality standards, ASC certification opens the door for local farmers to tap the European market,” Shih said. “These products also command much better prices.”
According to Shih, Taiwan produces between 60,000 and 80,000 tons of tilapia every year, with half exported to Saudi Arabia, South Korea and the U.S. Total output hit NT$2.1 billion (US$63.29 million) last year. [FULL STORY]
