The Council of Agriculture (COA) announced yesterday that it would build a new Aquaculture Research and Export Center as part of the Pingtung Agricultural Biotechnology Park.
Officials said that the new center — which is expected to be completed by 2011 — will attract research professionals and help the industry increase its share in the US$30 billion worldwide ornamental fish and fish breeding market.
Park director-general Chen Jen-ping (陳建斌) said Taiwan possesses distinct advantages that will help the industry compete with other Asian countries. He said that authorities were already working with universities and other institutes to redirect aquaculture researchers and students into the area.
Taiwan’s indigenous aquaculture creations include the blood parrot fish along with black and white bee shrimps — which a Japanese buyer snapped up for a record-breaking NT$270,000 (US$8,400) this year.
Chen promised that businesses willing to relocate to the new center would enjoy tax benefits as well as avoid export duties. He said the first phase of the center was likely to attract 20 businesses.
RSS