1. MOA Clarifies 70% ‘No Fish’ Report on Solar-Fishery Projects

The Fisheries Agency under the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) stressed that the fishery-solar symbiosis policy is guided by the principle of “aquaculture first, renewable energy as added value,” ensuring no compromise to farming operations, fishermen’s rights, farmland, or ecosystems.　In response to media citing an Audit Office report claiming “70% with power but no fish,” the Agency clarified two key points: (1) Different calculation basis – the Audit Office counted 393 sites already in trial grid connection with Taipower, which are not officially recognized as operating projects by local governments; (2) Data time gap – the report only covered figures up to January 2025, while the Agency’s statistics reflect the most recent updates from local inspections.As of now, local governments have confirmed 276 operating sites, with 174 inspected. Only 35 permits have been revoked, accounting for 12%.

2. MoA Hosts Southern Forum on Agricultural Basic Law to Map Out Long-Term Development

The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) held the Southern session of its “Agricultural Basic Law Grassroots Forum” on September 8 at the Gangshan District Farmers’ Association in Kaohsiung, drawing more than 160 farmers, agricultural groups, and stakeholders.Participants raised concerns on farmland protection, occupational safety, and sustainable development. Fishermen urged legislation of a Special Act on Aquaculture, noting current registration rules hinder disaster relief and discourage young successors. Scholars called for safeguarding broodstock and genetic resources, and proposed facility-based insurance products to mitigate risks from extreme weather.　The MoA said this forum is one of four nationwide sessions to gather local input for drafting the revised Agricultural Basic Law.