1.New Zealand Opens Market to Taiwan Orchid, Anthurium Cut Flowers

Taiwan has won approval to export phalaenopsis orchid and anthurium cut flowers to New Zealand, the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) said Monday, marking the latest expansion of its flower export markets.　The deal was signed during the Taiwan-New Zealand ANZTEC sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) meeting after nearly four years of quarantine negotiations and technical consultations.　Under the agreement, Taiwanese growers and exporters must follow pest-control and traceability measures, while all shipments will undergo export inspections before entering New Zealand.　The MOA said phalaenopsis orchids and anthuriums are among Taiwan’s key export flowers, prized internationally for their appearance, color variety and long vase life.　Taiwan exported nearly US$150 million worth of phalaenopsis orchids last year, mainly to Japan, Australia and the United States. Anthurium exports reached about US$4.5 million, with Japan, Australia and Singapore as major markets.The ministry said the new market access will help expand Taiwan’s flower exports and boost the global competitiveness of its floriculture industry.

2. Liuqiu Concert Draws Crowds as Pingtung Tuna Festival Expands to Island

A seaside concert on Xiaoliuqiu Island drew large crowds Saturday night as part of the annual Pingtung Bluefin Tuna Cultural Festival, combining live music, local food and tourism promotion in one of southern Taiwan’s most popular offshore destinations.　The “Stay With Liuqiu” concert, held at the island’s airfield, featured performances by Taiwanese singers including GBOYSWAG (Daniel Lü), Bai Ann and Chu Hai-chun, alongside local market vendors and food trucks.　Pingtung County Magistrate Chou Chun-mi said the festival has entered its 26th year and continues to expand beyond Donggang to showcase Xiaoliuqiu’s marine culture and tourism appeal.　The county government said the event aims to attract more visitors to the island through music and cultural experiences while boosting the local tourism economy.　Officials added that Pingtung is also promoting two-day Xiaoliuqiu travel packages in cooperation with Taiwan High Speed Rail tourism programs.