Image reproduced from 風傳媒

At a recent press conference held in Yunlin to promote exports to Europe, Tung Yuan Grain Industry and Taiwan Premium Rice announced the successful export of 1200 tons of quality Zhuoshui rice to eight European countries. This export event marks a significant milestone in the transformation of Taiwan's agricultural exports, attended by key officials including Xu Huiying, Deputy Director of the Central Regional Office of the Agriculture and Food Agency, Yunlin County Magistrate Chang Lishan, and former Council of Agriculture Chairperson Tsao Chih-hung. Numerous farmers were also present to witness this historic moment.

County Magistrate Chang emphasized that the rice being exported is being sent to France, Switzerland, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Germany, describing it as an unprecedented agricultural achievement. She expressed gratitude to Tung Yuan and Taiwan Premium Rice for their efforts in international marketing, quality control, and production. The hard work of the farmers has made this achievement possible.

The main product for this export initiative is "Snow Crane Sushi Rice," sourced from contract farming in the areas of Er-Lun and Lunbei in Yunlin, with a total cultivation area of 1000 hectares through cooperation with over 300 farmers. Chairman Li Yuanhao stated, "This is the fruit of collaboration between farmers and enterprises, and the farmers are the true heroes."

Chairman Li added that all exported rice has passed EU food inspection and safety standards and will be sold to local supermarkets and restaurants through European agents, with plans for brand promotion to further enhance the visibility of Taiwanese rice in the international market.

Xu Huiying, the deputy section chief, mentioned that Taiwanese rice has traditionally been exported mainly to Japan and the United States. The successful entry into these eight European countries represents a significant breakthrough. She noted, "This is not only a quantitative achievement but also vital for establishing international quality certification and brand value."

With this successful case, Wei Shengde, Director of the Yunlin County Department of Agriculture, pointed out that this case will serve as a model for future agricultural product exports. The county government will continue to promote the "Yunlin Quality Products Must Be Selective" policy, enhancing support for farmers, marketing resources, and opportunities for international connections to help local agriculture establish a stronger presence in global markets.