"Dog Person" Lai Ching-te and Su Chiao-hui Appear Together at Pet Products Exhibition, Joke About Buying Gifts for Tsai Ing-wen and Hsiao Bi-khim's Cats and Dogs

President Lai Ching-te, identifying as a "dog person," appeared at the 2026 Taipei Pet Products Exhibition, sharing the stage with legislator Su Chiao-hui. Lai highlighted the significant growth of Taiwan's pet industry, noting that the number of pet cats now exceeds pet dogs. The market value for pet products is estimated at NT$80 billion, with over 3.2 million pet animals nationwide.

Lai shared personal anecdotes about his dogs, Banban and Murphy, emphasizing his lifelong connection with canine companions. He also mentioned that former President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim often purchase items for their pets, indicating his intention to buy gifts for their cats and dogs during his visit to the exhibition.

During the event, Lai urged Minister of Agriculture Chen Chi-chung and Su Chiao-hui to expedite the development of regulations for pet food safety. He stressed the need for swift action, particularly as Su Chiao-hui might transition to a new role in the New Taipei City government after the year's end. "We need to be fast, otherwise Chiao-hui might go to the New Taipei City government after the end of the year!" Lai stated, underscoring the urgency.

Su Chiao-hui responded by acknowledging the industry's call for more comprehensive regulations, particularly concerning food safety. She pledged to work with industry stakeholders and ensure that any future legislation considered in the Legislative Yuan takes into account practical industry needs, making the regulations more implementable. Lai further expressed government support for the pet supplies industry through the SME Development Act, aiming to foster its growth alongside Taiwan's semiconductor and precision machinery sectors.

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We need to be fast, otherwise Chiao-hui might go to the New Taipei City government after the end of the year!