Taiwan organic cereals, pulses, and oilseed markets

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The organic market in Taiwan, though small, is steadily emerging and heavily dependent on exports to fulfill local supply gaps in ingredients and commodities. As of now, it ranks 39th globally, with an estimated import value ranging between $30 million to $35.1 million USD 1. This article delves into the dynamics of this market, shedding light on key statistics, regulatory developments, and emerging trends.

Statistical Overview

Taiwan's organic imports encompass grains (30%), processed grains (12%), and fruits (23%)2. In this market, Canada stands out as the third-largest importer, contributing 15% to the overall organic imports, valued at approximately $6 million annually. The United States and New Zealand lead the pack, with 46% and 18%, respectively.

Forecasted Growth 

According to the Global Organic Trade Guide (link), Taiwan is poised for a 2.8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in sales of organic packaged food and beverages from 2021 to 2026, signifying a positive trajectory for the organic sector.

Regulatory context 

Taiwan's regulatory environment for organics has evolved significantly. In 2009, Taiwan recognized organic equivalency with over 20 countries, including Canada, and in 2018, amended  its organic regulations to formally request mutual recognition from these countries by May 2020.  This was achieved by only five countries—Canada, the US, New Zealand, and Japan. As a result, exports from countries without equivalency, such as China, Germany, and Italy, have declined, severely impacting their market share.  

Canadian Exports to Taiwan

 Despite favorable regulations, Canadian organic grain exports to Taiwan have not seen a substantial increase since 2020. Soybeans dominate the grain export and represented over 94% of total organic grain export in this country 2022. That year, the province of Ontario led the soybean export with $4.5 million in sales, followed by Quebec at $0.6 million.

Soybean exports from Ontario reached $5.69 million in the first nine months of 2023, with British Columbia contributing $0.91 million and Saskatchewan at $0.1 million. The export volume has remained stable at around 5,200 metric tons over the last three years.

While soybean exports have remained consistent, fluctuations in export volumes of linseed, yellow peas, and lentils are notable.

Market Trends

Two significant trends in Taiwan's organic market include the growing popularity of black soybeans and the increasing demand for organic oats. Canadian suppliers have an opportunity to fill the supply gap for black soybeans, previously imported from China. However, for organic oats, it is crucial to note Taiwan's zero-tolerance policy on glyphosate, with rigorous testing procedures in place. Exporters should exercise caution when dealing with oat products in this market.

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1 Euromonitor International 2022, as cited on  Global Organic Trade (link)

2 Taiwan Statistics - 2016-2021 - Organic Products - Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC)