1. MOA Promotes Taiwan Eel Exports at Taiwan-Japan Industry Exchange

Minister of Agriculture Chen Chiun-jiu hosted a Taiwan-Japan eel industry exchange in Nagoya on September 20, calling for closer cooperation to expand Taiwan’s eel exports to Japan. The event brought together Japanese eel importers, wholesalers and kabayaki industry groups, as well as representatives from Taiwan’s eel farming and processing sectors. Chen said consistent quality and stable supply are key to expanding exports. The Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) will work with industry partners to strengthen quality management, improve trade and cooperation mechanisms, and promote contract farming to better meet Japanese market demand.The MOA also held a Taiwanese kabayaki eel rice tasting event, with all 300 servings made with Taiwanese eel and rice quickly claimed by Japanese consumers. Participants praised the eel’s delicate texture and balanced fat content. The MOA said it will continue supporting the industry in upgrading cold-chain logistics, processing and packaging, while developing smaller, convenient and ready-to-eat products. The ministry will also work with Japanese industry and distribution partners to expand household, food service and retail markets and strengthen the competitiveness of Taiwanese eel in Japan.

2. Taiwanese Fishing Vessel Rescues 36 Indonesian Crew Members in Indian Ocean

Taiwan’s Fisheries Agency praised the Taiwanese fishing vessel Wen Hong Da (CT6-1505) for rescuing all 36 Indonesian crew members from a fishing vessel that caught fire in international waters southeast of Malé, Maldives, on September 23. The Wen Hong Da immediately suspended fishing operations and headed to the scene after spotting the burning KM. REAL ANSON, successfully rescuing all 36 crew members. The rescued crew were later transferred to another Indonesian fishing vessel for transport back to shore, while the Wen Hong Da returned to its fishing grounds. The Fisheries Agency said the rescue demonstrates the spirit of mutual assistance and humanitarian cooperation at sea. The agency will continue coordinating with international search-and-rescue authorities and vessels to safeguard fishing vessels and crews operating at sea.