Consumer Attitudes towards Genetically Modified Foods in Emerging Markets: The Impact of Labeling in Taiwan

In 2001, Taiwan enacted a law for genetically modified food (GM foods) labeling. Beginning January 1st 2003, food containing more than 5% of GM ingredients must be labeled. Taiwan imports most of its soybeans from the United States. In order to assess the effects of the new policy, a telephone survey was conducted in 2002. A total of 257 interviews were completed. A typology of consumers' attitudes towards GM foods is constructed from the use of a multiple correspondence analysis and a classification method. Four profiles are identified: proponents, 52%, moderate opponents, 32.5%, extreme opponents, 12.5%, and those with no opinion, 5.5%.