Taiwan Banana Research Institute Opens New Seedling Center, Doubling Capacity

According to the Central News Agency, the Taiwan Banana Research Institute held an inauguration ceremony for its new 'Seedling Research Center' in Jiuru Township, Pingtung County today. Minister of Agriculture Chen Chun-chi stated that the center's purpose is to mass-produce healthy seedlings for farmers. Currently, Taiwan's banana cultivation area is approximately 14,000 to 15,000 hectares, with one-third utilizing healthy seedlings. Once the center is fully operational, the annual supply of healthy seedlings is expected to increase from 2.5 million to 5 million. By utilizing advanced environmental control and smart management, the institute aims to lower production costs and pass these savings on to farmers, thereby enhancing the overall resilience of the banana industry. The center includes sterile cutting rooms, cultivation rooms, and sterilization facilities.