October 9, 2007

Typhoon costs Taiwan's agricultural industry US$81 million 

Typhoon Krosa, which hit Taiwan last week were estimated to have cost the industry NT$2.67 billion (US$80.9 million), according to the latest figures released by the Council of Agriculture (COA).

Most of the damage was in fruits and other crop losses, accounting for NT$2.37bn (US$70 million).

Livestock and poultry losses were put at NT$1.75m (US$53,000), mainly because of the deaths of 4,000 chickens and 14,000 ducks.

Losses to fishing facility were more extensive and is estimated at NT$150 million (US$4.6 million). Losses to farm land and facilities were pegged at NT$135.95 million  (US$4.17 million), while poultry facilities sustained losses of NT$2.52m (US$70,000).

COA officials said that in line with relief measures in times of natural disasters, six counties affected by the typhoon are eligible for cash subsidies and low-interest loans, while another six would be eligible for just low-interest loans.