Industry Working to Build a Presence for U.S. Pork in Taiwan

Nearly five years after Taiwan established maximum residue levels (MRLs) for ractopamine in imported pork, the issue continues roiling the market. While intended to foster transparency, establishment of MRLs met with political pushback. Misinformation about ractopamine’s safety is regularly distributed to the trade and media.

“The ractopamine issue affects our ability to promote U.S. pork to manufacturers for further processing and U.S. pork cuts to consumers at retail,” says USMEF Taiwan Director Davis Wu. “To address these challenges and grow consumer acceptance of U.S. pork, we partnered with Costco on extended promotions of processed U.S. pork products.”

The 15-week promotion at 14 Costco stores throughout Taiwan featured pulled pork, honey and maple-flavored ham, bacon, and three types of sausage products. The safety, versatility, convenience and taste of the U.S. pork products were highlighted during the promotional period.

Prior to the misinformation campaign, U.S. pork exports to Taiwan were growing. In 2020, shipments topped 20,000 metric tons (mt) valued at $54 million. But by 2024, export levels declined to just 8,100 mt worth $23.7 million.