Agriculture Ministry Hopes to Boost Domestic Eel Sales to 60%, Targeting State Banquet and High-End Channels

(CNA Taipei, July 8) The Ministry of Agriculture is actively expanding the domestic market for eels this year, aiming to increase domestic sales to 60%. In addition to general channels, it is also targeting the high-end market. Today, it co-hosted a promotional event with the Grand Formosa Regent Taipei and Chiayi County Government, featuring creative dishes designed by the Grand Formosa Regent's state banquet chef team.

The Fisheries Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture, Chiayi County Government, and Grand Formosa Regent Taipei jointly organized the "Taiwan Eel Goodness. Grand Formosa Leads the Way - Joint Promotion of Domestic High-Quality Agricultural and Aquatic Products" event. From now until September 30, a lucky draw with purchases over NT$1,000 will be held, inviting the public to support the development of Taiwan's agricultural and fishery industries with their actual actions.

During the event period, Grand Formosa Regent Taipei has assembled its state banquet chef teams from various restaurants to design 13 specialty dishes using domestic agricultural and aquatic ingredients. These include: "Supreme Bamboo Shoot Eel Casserole," "Prosperous Jujube Fragrance White Eel Sticky Rice," "Formosa Five-Flavor Dragon Tiger Grouper," "Min Style Chopped Chili Grouper," "Pan-Seared Dragon Tiger Grouper with Miso Sea Urchin Sauce," and "Formosa Imperial Braised Tilapia," showcasing innovative flavors of domestic agricultural and aquatic products.

Huang Chao-chin, Vice Minister of Agriculture, stated that Taiwan's eel production has historically been export-oriented, with domestic and export sales currently accounting for roughly half each. He hopes that through a series of promotions this year, the proportion of domestic sales can be increased to 60%.

Huang Chao-chin cited domestic bluefin tuna as an example, noting that since its promotion began in 2001, 80% to 90% has been supplied to the domestic market. He believes that eels, groupers, and tilapia have similar potential for deep cultivation in the local market.

Huang Chao-chin added that since the beginning of this year, the ministry has assisted eel businesses in establishing channels in supermarkets, fresh sushi stores, Mos Burger, and Taiwan Railways bento boxes. Today's collaboration with Grand Formosa Regent Taipei further expands into high-end state banquet channels.

Yeh Chu-lan, Chairperson of Grand Formosa Regent Taipei, said that Grand Formosa Regent's state banquets always select local agricultural and aquatic products. Whether for grand feasts or casual dining, guests can experience the diversity of Taiwanese cuisine at the Grand Formosa Regent's tables.

Wang Mao-cheng, Director-General of the Fisheries Agency, praised eels as a highly nutritious aquatic product, containing unsaturated fatty acids that are healthier than those in meat. He particularly highlighted their rich collagen content, which is beneficial for nourishing women and those engaged in long-term physical labor.

Weng Chang-liang, Magistrate of Chiayi County, promoted eels in Taipei for two consecutive days. He said this is the first time Chiayi's agricultural products have been promoted at a national-level banquet venue. With the skillful preparation by the state banquet chef team, local produce has been transformed into premium products. (Editor: Chen Ching-fang) 1150708

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