July 15, 2013

Taiwan to launch Asia's largest aquaculture centre

Taiwan will launch the largest aquaculture centre in Asia by August and it is expected to be fully functional by the end of this year.

Situated in the southern county of Pingtung, the 5.5-hectare facility can accommodate 12 public factories and one logistics centre, according to the Pingtung Agricultural Biotechnology Park, which runs the aquaculture centre.

"We aim to surpass Singapore and other Southeast Asian countries to become a global hub of ornamental fish and aquaculture products," said Ho Cheng-chang, who is in charge of the project.

The facility will provide an integrated platform for research and development, breeding, inspection and quarantine, packaging, export and marketing operations, he said, adding that it will be Taiwan's first aquaculture industry cluster of its kind.

Currently, the project has attracted some 10 local exporters, the operator said, expressing hope that more would join the group to boost the industry.