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Abstract
Despite the projected decline in Taiwan's population growth rate, rising per capita incomes and rapid urbanization will greatly increase per capita consumption of most foods and change consumption patterns in favor of high-protein products versus the traditional rice and sweetpotatoes. Taiwan, one of the largest exporters of agricultural commodities in the Far East, is experiencing a significant rise in agricultural imports. Projections show the uptrend in exports weakening as import requirements continue to increase. The country's current pattern of trade diversification is projected to continue, resulting in the U.S. loss of much of its share of Taiwan's imports and exports of agricultural products. In absolute quantity terms, however, market opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports to Taiwan will remain strong, although encountering increasing competition.