Suddenly, China notified us of the pineapple pests and immediately banned the import of our products. We believe it does not comply with international trade rules.
Wang Mei-Hua
Taiwanese Minister of Economy
Most pineapples from Taiwan are consumed domestically, according to Reuters. However, of those that were exported, 90% were sold to China last year.
“Suddenly, China notified us of the pineapple infestation and immediately banned the import of our products. We think it does not comply with international trade rules,” Wang told CNBC’s Emily Tan on Wednesday.
“But we will do our best to think about this issue and talk to China. In the meantime, we will try to diversify and sell our great products to other markets outside of China,” she said, translating her commentary into Mandarin. .
A hawker selling pineapple on Taipei Street. With China banning the import of Taiwanese pineapple, Taiwan leaders are urging the population to buy more pineapple to minimize the impact on farmers.
Ceng Shou Yi | NurPhoto | Getty Images
Support for the US and Canada
Diplomats from the US and Canada have also expressed support for Taiwan and its pineapple. The two countries have no formal diplomatic relations with the island, but maintain close ties.
The Canadian trade office in Taipei posted a photo on its Facebook account of its staff posing with pineapple and pizza. The message contained the hashtag #FreedomPineapples.
Separately, the American Institute in Taiwan used the hashtag #pineapplesolidarity and shared photos of the tropical fruit in offices and bookshelves. It has also posted recipes that use pineapple.
Last week, a bill in the House of Representatives called on the US to resume diplomatic ties with Taiwan, negotiate a free trade agreement (FTA) and support the island’s membership in international organizations.
Wang, Taiwan’s economy minister, said Washington and Taipei have “long-term” relations, both economically and strategically. They also have a strong partnership in the semiconductor industry, she said.
“If we could have a free trade agreement in the future, we would certainly welcome it and pursue it as it would further strengthen our economic ties,” she added.