September 15, 2023

Taiwan's egg industry nearing self-sufficiency after nationwide shortage

The Ministry of Agriculture in Taiwan anticipates that the nation's domestic egg industry will achieve self-sufficiency in approximately two months, signalling a recovery from the nationwide egg shortage experienced earlier this year, Taipei Times reported.

In recent data published on the ministry's website, it was revealed that daily egg production has risen by approximately 2,000 crates within the past month, reaching a total of 115,500 crates during the last week. Each crate comprises 200 eggs.

Despite this progress, there remains a shortfall of around 4,500 crates to meet the local demand of 120,000 crates. If the current trend of increasing production continues, the ministry estimates that Taiwan will reach self-sufficiency within the next two months.

The number of egg-laying hens has increased by roughly 2 million over the past month, totaling 33.86 million. This figure is in close proximity to the 34 million hens required to maintain daily production at 120,000 crates.

Regarding the continuation of a special egg import programme, initially planned until June of the following year, Taiwan's Department of Animal Industry has indicated that import adjustments will be made on an ongoing basis. This flexibility is necessary due to the highly variable nature of egg production, especially as Taiwan enters the high-risk season for avian-borne illnesses.

In the event that domestic production successfully meets demand, surplus imported eggs will be processed to extend their shelf life for up to two years, primarily for use in processed foods.

-      Taipei Times