Taiwan Sweet Potato Alliance Cultivates Success, Fries Land in South Korean McDonald's

Taiwan's sweet potato farmers have found a powerful ally in the Taiwan Sweet Potato Strategic Alliance, transforming a volatile industry into a stable and growing sector. Since its formation in 2020 with support from the Council of Agriculture, the alliance has dramatically improved farmer livelihoods.

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The acquisition price for contract sweet potatoes has grown from 8.8 NT dollars per kilogram in 2021 to 15.8 NT dollars this year, with an average annual growth rate of 12.4%, significantly increasing farmer income.

Contract prices for sweet potatoes have surged from 8.8 NT dollars per kilogram in 2021 to 15.8 NT dollars this year, a significant increase that has boosted farmer income. The cultivation area has also expanded, growing from 1,500 hectares to 3,200 hectares, with plans to reach 3,400 hectares by 2026. This growth reflects increased farmer confidence and participation.

The alliance's success extends beyond domestic stability, with exports reaching 2,100 metric tons this year, a nearly 29% annual increase. A key achievement is the entry of Taiwanese sweet potato fries into the South Korean McDonald's supply chain. This breakthrough was driven by Taiwan's higher quality sweet potatoes, advanced cold chain logistics, and processing capabilities, overcoming challenges like weather-dependent cultivation common in South Korea.

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Taiwanese sweet potato fries entered the South Korean McDonald's supply chain three years ago. The key to entry was that sweet potatoes are usually grown outdoors and are severely affected by weather.

This collaborative model, which ensures full utilization of sweet potatoes and supports various processing needs, is also being applied to the banana industry. The alliance aims to replicate its success by expanding into new international markets, including Japan and Southeast Asia, further solidifying Taiwan's position in the global agricultural trade.

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With the establishment of the strategic alliance, different types of processing plants can support each other to dispatch sweet potatoes of different sizes and specifications, and realize the full utilization of sweet potatoes.