TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The head of the Ministry of Agriculture (農業部) said Wednesday (Dec. 4) that consecutive typhoons have hindered re-cultivation efforts, but he anticipates vegetable prices will stabilize before the Lunar New Year. Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih (陳駿季) noted the significant impact of Typhoon Krathon and Typhoon Kong-rey, leading to coordinated efforts to ensure the availability of affordable vegetables, such as cabbage, in supermarkets.
According to the Taipei Agricultural Products Marketing Corporation (臺北農產運銷), Taipei's vegetable supply reached approximately 1,121 tons. The average price per kilogram stood at 59.1 New Taiwan dollars, slightly lower than the previous day's 61.2 New Taiwan dollars. However, overall prices remain high. Analysts at the corporation observed that reduced supply has led to higher transaction prices, with buyers showing less willingness to purchase, resulting in sluggish market activity.
The prices of vegetables such as cabbage, zucchini, eggplant, and broccoli have risen, while others like bok choy, napa cabbage, choy sum, spinach, and lettuce have decreased. Fruit production, particularly jujubes and citrus, has also suffered from the typhoons, leading to price increases. Authorities plan to offer a wider variety of fruits to consumers. Minister Chen stated that the Hualien agricultural economy's revitalization policy, known as the "Agricultural Coin" (農粉幣), has achieved an execution rate of about 83%. Officials anticipate this will exceed 90% by the end of the year, with online usage showing promising results.