1. Swill Feeding Ban Set for 2027 as Taiwan Boosts Pig Farming Support

Following a recent African swine fever detection in Taichung, Taiwan's Executive Yuan has approved a nationwide ban on swill feeding for pigs starting in 2027. The move has raised concerns among black pig farmers who rely on swill, citing a short transition period. Agriculture Minister Chen Chun-ji confirmed the ban will proceed as planned and pledged support for farmers’ transition. Measures include introducing faster-growing pig breeds, improving local varieties, developing feed formulas, and boosting brand marketing to offset higher costs.Currently, about 420 of Taiwan’s 5,400 pig farms use swill, mostly in Taoyuan and New Taipei, representing less than 8% of the industry.

2. Kaohsiung Health Bureau Apologizes for False Detection of Banned Drug in Tilapia Fillets

The Kaohsiung City Health Bureau recently issued an apology after tilapia fillets sold at PX Mart were mistakenly flagged for containing a banned drug. Subsequent investigation revealed that the lab’s computer settings had been manually altered, amplifying the results, which should have been reported as “not detected.”　On December 4, the bureau formally apologized to the fishermen’s cooperative, PX Mart, and affected consumers, and confirmed that responsible personnel would face legal accountability. Compensation and losses will be coordinated between PX Mart and relevant parties.　The bureau immediately reported the incident to the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Food and Drug Administration and confirmed it as an isolated case. The original test at the end of November indicated the presence of enrofloxacin-carboxylic acid, but subsequent testing by the vendor showed no detection. The error was traced to a 29-year-old female research assistant, who resigned on November 4 and is currently unreachable; authorities are investigating.　The bureau has suspended the relevant testing platform and is reviewing its procedures to prevent similar incidents. The Minister of Health and Welfare confirmed that local health authorities will handle follow-up actions according to their responsibilities.