Taiwan's wine monopoly board imposed rice-wine rationing measures yesterday as the public hoarded the locally made product ahead of a substantial price increase.
The government-run Taiwan Tobacco and Wine Board (
Households with more than three people will be able to get higher rations.
The rare measure was imposed following growing complaints of difficulty in acquiring the wine as people endured long queues to buy rice wine, which has for decades been essential for cooking Taiwanse food including the popular ginger duck.
Rice wine was snatched from the shelves of shops nationwide, with demand remaining strong despite government measures to crack down on hoarding, including offering rewards to people who informed on hoarders.
The issue has also emerged as a hot topic of criticism by opposition candidates campaigning in upcoming elections.
The price of the wine is due to soar to NT$120 (US$3.8) next year and further to NT$140 in 2003, from the present NT$21 (US$0.60) for a 0.6-liter bottle, as part of Taipei's efforts to meet WTO requirements.
Demand for michiu first surged two years ago after the monopoly board announced a ban but was forced to lift it the next day following popular protests. Since then sales of the rice wine have stayed high.
As Taiwan's WTO accession draws near, sales of michiu have risen to new heights. The monopoly board said it sold 24 million bottles a month over the past three months, some 600,000 bottles more than usual.
Taiwan's WTO application was approved by members of the international trade body on Nov. 11.
China's accession was approved the day before.
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