TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — New Zealand is allowing Taiwan’s pineapples to be imported, the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) announced on Tuesday (April 9).
According to a MOA press release, the approval came into fruition after talks between Taiwan and New Zealand began in 2016 and falls under the Agreement between New Zealand and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu on Economic Cooperation (ANZTEC). During the eight-year period, Taiwan prepared data on pineapple production, climate, and harvesting methods as requested by the New Zealand government.
MOA said, “According to the agreement, pineapples must be harvested during the green ripening period, and records of production, harvesting, processing, and transportation processes must be kept for traceability.” “Crown removal is required for exported pineapples, and 600 samples must be taken during export quarantine to confirm that the goods are not contaminated with any harmful organisms of concern to New Zealand,” the ministry added.
MOA emphasized that pineapples are an important export fruit, known for their rich aroma, sweetness, and juiciness, and are well received in both domestic and international markets. “Taiwan has diverse pineapple varieties, and farmers use different cultivation areas, varieties, and seasonal adjustment techniques to produce pineapples year-round,” it said.
MOA said it will continue to work towards expanding agricultural product exports with trading partners to assist its farmers in accessing international markets.
ANZTEC is a comprehensive trade agreement between Taiwan and New Zealand that came into force on Dec. 1, 2013. Taiwan is New Zealand’s 14th-largest source of imports as of March 2023.
