New Taipei's Animal Protection Office Launches 'Cattle Support Program' to Strengthen Local Dairy Industry Against Imports

Amid the looming challenge of New Zealand's zero-tariff liquid milk imports in 2025, New Taipei City's Animal Protection and Prevention Office has launched the 'Cattle Support Program' to strengthen the competitiveness of the local dairy industry. The initiative features expert consultants conducting on-site, one-on-one guidance, with Professor Chuang Shih-Te from National Chung Hsing University—a leading domestic expert on bovine diseases—visiting key dairy regions such as Linkou and Tamsui to conduct comprehensive health assessments and technical upgrades for dairy cattle.

Taiwan's fresh milk market is valued at NT$25.43 billion annually, making it the largest segment in the dairy industry. However, the impact of imported dairy products is imminent. As cattle health forms the foundation of the industry, the Animal Protection Office has introduced a customized 'Cattle Support Program' to directly address complex challenges at the farm level. This initiative not only enhances animal welfare but also ensures strict quality control at the raw milk source, guaranteeing consumers access to safe, healthy, and locally produced milk.

During his visit to a Linkou dairy farm, Professor Chuang emphasized: 'Cattle of different ages and categories have vastly different nutritional needs and management requirements. Providing adequate nutrition and suitable environments naturally strengthens their immunity.' From a preventive medicine perspective, he offered strategies to prevent calf diarrhea, advised on dry period management, and provided comprehensive feeding, management, and biosecurity recommendations. He also praised the farm’s adoption of high-tech practices, such as using 'smart heat-detection collars,' which significantly improve cow conception rates.

The 'Cattle Support Program' empowers farmers to monitor cattle health daily, detect issues early, and promptly adjust feeding strategies and rations to prevent diseases before they occur. Zhang Chien-nan, a third-generation dairy farmer in Tamsui with over 50 years of operation, shared his insights after consulting with Professor Chuang: 'As times evolve, our farming practices must become more refined and scientific. With expert guidance and technological support, not only are our cows healthier, but milk quality has also significantly improved. This program truly creates a win-win-win for cattle, farmers, and consumers.'

The New Taipei City Animal Protection Office stated that it will continue to strengthen biosecurity networks and improve farming standards through ongoing巡回 guidance and technical exchanges. By building a more robust animal health system, the program aims to safeguard cattle well-being, support sustainable development of the local livestock industry, and ensure food safety for the public.