US Peanuts Near Zero-Tariff Status; Agriculture Minister Hopes Agriculture Won't Become a Political Tool
As US peanuts approach zero-tariff entry into Taiwan, Agriculture Minister Chen Jun-ji emphasized using branding, origin labels, and carbon footprint data to maintain the market share of local peanuts.
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- 📰 Published: April 29, 2026 at 12:10
- 🔍 Collected: April 29, 2026 at 12:31 (21 min after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 29, 2026 at 12:55 (23 min after Collected)
TAIPEI (CNA) — Amid concerns over the upcoming zero-tariff import of US peanuts under the US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade (ART), Agriculture Minister Chen Jun-ji stated today that the government will enhance the 'brand benefit' of Taiwanese peanuts through labeling and carbon footprint metrics. Speaking before a legislative session, Chen noted that local peanuts currently hold a 75% market share due to their unique aroma and popularity as a fresh-shell snack, qualities that imports cannot match.
To counter the impact of cheaper imports, the Ministry of Agriculture plans to differentiate local products via official certification marks and carbon footprint tracking. Chen emphasized that zero tariffs on raw materials could lower production costs for Taiwan-made processed goods, but he will mandate that such products clearly state the origin of the peanuts used. Addressing concerns from opposition lawmakers regarding the need for higher transition subsidies for farmers—proposing an increase from NT$35,000 to NT$100,000 per hectare—Chen stressed that agricultural issues should not be politicized. Instead, he called for central and local government cooperation to implement industrial upgrades, such as regional drying centers, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.
To counter the impact of cheaper imports, the Ministry of Agriculture plans to differentiate local products via official certification marks and carbon footprint tracking. Chen emphasized that zero tariffs on raw materials could lower production costs for Taiwan-made processed goods, but he will mandate that such products clearly state the origin of the peanuts used. Addressing concerns from opposition lawmakers regarding the need for higher transition subsidies for farmers—proposing an increase from NT$35,000 to NT$100,000 per hectare—Chen stressed that agricultural issues should not be politicized. Instead, he called for central and local government cooperation to implement industrial upgrades, such as regional drying centers, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.