The Food Taipei Mega Shows kicked off yesterday at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, attracting a record high of more than 1,600 exhibitors from countries around the world showcasing their products at 4,500 booths, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA, 外貿協會) said.
The exhibition covers food, food processing, biotech and pharmaceutical equipment, packaging services, as well as catering supplies and equipment, said TAITRA, one of the event’s organizers.
Leading domestic companies such as Fwusow Industry Co (福壽實業), Anyong Freshmart Inc (安永生活), Lian Hwa Foods Corp (聯華食品), Chi Mei Frozen Food Co (奇美食品), and Dachan Great Wall Enterprise Co (大成長城) are participating, it said.
Photo: CNA
Hailing the event as one of the largest of its kind in Asia, Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs Chen Chern-chyi (陳正祺) said that Taiwan has a comprehensive ecosystem and supply chain supporting its food industry.
He added that the exhibition highlights aspects including the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and supply capabilities.
TAITRA chairman James Huang (黃志芳) said that the 22 countries hosting national pavilions include Eswatini, Saint Lucia, the US, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea and the Czech Republic.
Spain is returning with a national pavilion for the first time in five years, and the Czech Republic is participating for the first time, showcasing its high-quality chocolates and cereal products.
Huang noted that the number of exhibitors this year was 10 percent higher than last year.
The area the exhibition occupies also increased by 6 percent, he said, adding that 5,000 international buyers have pre-registered to visit.
Huang said this year’s exhibition, focusing on future foods and food safety sustainability, incorporates products such as plant-based meat and AI applications in the food industry supply chain.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture Hu Jong-i (胡忠一) said the “Taiwan Pavilion” hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture is expected to generate a revenue of NT$150 million (US$4.61 million).
It is also the largest pavilion in this year’s exhibition, with a total of 92 domestic companies displaying their products.
The pavilion is divided into five major sections: premium agricultural products, aquatic products, livestock and poultry products, senior-friendly products, and rural specialties.
In addition, an online Taiwan Pavilion is featured at the event and will remain in service for one month, Hu said.
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