Taiwan Approves $326 Million for Modern Meat Market Renovation

The executive branch has delivered a significant boost to Chiayi County with the approval of NT$3.26 billion (approximately $100 million USD) for the complete renovation of the Chiayi County Meat Market. Premier Cho Jung-tai announced the funding during a site visit, emphasizing the project's importance as a flagship initiative for Taiwan's pork industry and setting a target for completion by 2030.

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The renovation of the Chiayi County Meat Market is a flagship project for the domestic meat industry. Wastewater treatment and pollution control are key engineering priorities. We must meet environmental standards and consider residents' quality of life, creating a model for meat markets in Taiwan and enhancing slaughtering, trading, and cold chain facilities as an important calling card for Taiwan's pig farming industry to go global.

The revamped market is envisioned as a modern facility, integrating advanced features such as carcass grading, international hygiene standards, and enhanced capacity for regulating live pig supply. It will incorporate automated slaughtering lines, cold chain logistics, smart management systems, and a robust traceability network. The facility is designed to handle 250 heads per hour and up to 2,000 heads daily, with a storage capacity of 1,000 metric tons, positioning it as a potential export hub for Taiwanese pork.

Environmental considerations are paramount, with Premier Cho highlighting the need for stringent wastewater treatment and pollution control measures to meet environmental standards and ensure residents' quality of life. The project aims to create a model for meat markets across Taiwan, enhancing slaughtering, trading, and cold chain infrastructure, thereby serving as a crucial element in the internationalization of Taiwan's pig farming sector.

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The total cost has increased from the original plan to NT$3.26 billion due to rising international steel prices, raw material and labor costs, and the addition of electromechanical equipment. The Executive Yuan has agreed to fully approve the funding, so the local government does not need to seek additional funds.

Chiayi County Magistrate Weng Chang-liang underscored the renovation's role in strengthening the foundation of the pig farming industry. Plans include contractual farming agreements with pig farmers to guarantee feed, medication, and food safety. The initiative will also promote carcass grading, full cold chain management, and the use of carbon dioxide to minimize animal suffering during slaughter, ultimately aiming to produce the safest pork in Taiwan.

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The renovation of the Chiayi County Meat Market is a foundational infrastructure project for the pig farming industry. We hope to promote contract farming with pig farmers to guarantee feed, medication, and food safety, as well as promote carcass grading, full cold chain, and the use of carbon dioxide to reduce pig suffering during slaughter, creating the safest pork in Taiwan.