Stronger PH-Taiwan tie-up on aquaculture seen

An official of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) expressed optimism about a greater tie-up with the Philippines following a trade meeting among industry players on aquaculture at the Manila Hotel Wednesday. (Photo By Source, Fair use)

MANILA — An official of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) expressed optimism about a greater tie-up with the Philippines following a trade meeting among industry players on aquaculture at the Manila Hotel Wednesday.

The Taiwan Aquaculture Trade Meeting was participated in by 10 Taiwan-based technology providers and about 70 domestic aquaculture industry players.

Patty Yen, TAITRA deputy executive director, told reporters that the event was made possible through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between officials of both countries earlier this year.

She said the technology of Taiwanese companies on aquaculture is “quite good” and can be helpful to Filipino companies in terms of fish breeding, cages, and quick freezer.

“They (Taiwanese company executives) want to see if the market here is big enough for them to make investments,” she said.

Yen said the Taiwanese delegation visited fish farms in Sual, Pangasinan on Tuesday and found that the farms’ facilities need enhancements.

“This is the reason why they want to help Filipino aquaculture players make their system more efficient,” she said.

Yen said Taiwan is a major importer of aquaculture products and there is a big opportunity for the Philippines in this area.

Citing TAITRA data, Yen said the Philippines ranked 12th on global fisheries and aquaculture while Taiwan is at the 20th position.

Yen said Taiwan is eyeing to source crabs, shrimps and fish from the Philippines as a result of the ongoing trade mission to the Philippines.

“Taiwan is strong in aquaculture. I think the Philippines, if it adopts new technology, would benefit from this increased partnership,” she added.