ABSTRACT
Amid ongoing trends of global trade liberalization, duck eggs constitute one of the few livestock and poultry products actively exported from Taiwan. Nevertheless, the industry has encountered mounting production-related vulnerabilities in recent years. These include the recurrent threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), the adverse effects of climate change, and broader geopolitical disruptions such as the Russia–Ukraine conflict. Concurrently, the industry faces escalating costs throughout the production and sales supply chain, encompassing feed, breeding, processing, logistics, labor, and energy inputs, compounded by labor shortages and the demographic challenge of an aging agricultural workforce. Beyond these short- and long-term operational challenges, the industry must face tariff and non-tariff trade barriers in export markets. Limited research examining the current production and export status of Taiwan's duck egg industry, its operational challenges, and importing countries' quarantine requirements. This lack of comprehensive analysis has hindered exporters' ability to expand their market presence. This study aims to investigate the current status of Taiwan's duck egg industry, its production and export challenges, and the importing countries' quarantine requirements. Based on these findings, the study will propose recommendations for production, processing, and export strategies to enhance Taiwan's duck egg industry's efficiency, resilience, and international competitiveness.
Keywords: duck egg, supply chain, quarantine requirements
INTRODUCTION
International economic and trade liberalization and the deepening of regional economic integration have emerged as dominant trends in global development. As countries gradually sign regional trade agreements to eliminate trade barriers, market liberalization continues to progress. Under global trade liberalization, livestock and poultry products face more non-tariff trade barriers than non-biological products. Therefore, duck eggs have become one of the few livestock and poultry products in Taiwan with export potential. In 2023, the production value of Taiwan’s duck egg industry amounted to US$73,217,000, with exports reaching US$3,865,650, constituting roughly 5.28% of the total production value.
The duck egg industry in Taiwan encounters numerous production challenges. Traditional high-density farming practices, limited economies of scale, and constraints in land acquisition have hindered the sector’s overall development. Rising production and supply chain costs, encompassing feed, rearing, processing, and distribution, exacerbate these structural limitations. Additionally, the industry is burdened by increasing labor wages, elevated fuel and raw material prices, chronic labor shortages, and an aging agricultural workforce.
Beyond economic challenges, the sector also faces significant technical and environmental challenges. Climate change and recurrent avian influenza outbreaks have adversely impacted duck farming activities. Concurrently, issues related to environmental management—such as the treatment of duck manure wastewater and the disposal of surplus salted duck egg protein—remain inadequately addressed.
On the export front, the industry must contend with both tariff and non-tariff trade barriers, which collectively constrain its capacity to expand into new international markets. Despite these various challenges, limited research exists examining the current status of Taiwan's duck egg industry, its production and export challenges, and the quarantine requirements enforced by importing countries.
This study aims to comprehensively analyze Taiwan's duck egg industry by examining the current production and export situation, identifying key challenges, and investigating the quarantine requirements of key importing countries. The results will provide strategic recommendations for production, processing, and export practices, serving as a valuable reference for exporters and agricultural policymakers. These recommendations are designed to enhance Taiwan's duck egg industry's efficiency, resilience, and international competitiveness.
CURRENT PRODUCTION SITUATION OF DUCK EGG INDUSTRY IN TAIWAN
According to longitudinal data compiled from the Livestock and Poultry Statistics Survey conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), the duck egg industry in Taiwan has undergone significant structural changes over the past decade. The analysis of key indicators, including the number of farms, head on farms, egg production, production value, market prices, and regional distribution—offers insight into the dynamics and emerging challenges of the industry. The following trends were observed in Taiwan's duck egg industry over the period of 2014-2023:
Number of farms
In the past 10 years (2014-2023), the number of duck farms in Taiwan declined, falling from 446 farms in 2014 to 348 in 2022. However, a modest recovery was observed in 2023, with the number of farms increasing to 369. The average number of farms over the past three years (2021-2023) is 361, as shown in Table 1. This fluctuation reflects broader structural adjustments within the sector, potentially influenced by environmental regulations, economic pressures, and shifts in land use policy.
Head on farms
The total number of ducks raised has similarly declined, decreasing from 2.143 million heads in 2014 to 1.823 million in 2022. A slight increase to 1.929 million heads was recorded in 2023. The average flock size over 2021–2023 was approximately 1.904 million heads (Table 1). These figures suggest a persistent contraction in production capacity, albeit with recent signs of stabilization.
Duck eggs production
Duck egg production has shown a gradual but consistent downward trend over the past decade. Total production declined from 433 million eggs in 2014 to 411 million in 2023. The mean annual output between 2021 and 2023 was approximately 412 million eggs (Table 1). Despite the reduction in overall output, the sector has demonstrated resilience in maintaining relatively stable production levels in recent years.
Production value
In contrast to the downward trends in farm numbers, head on farms, and production volume, the total production value of duck eggs has shown a marked increase. From 2014 to 2023, production value rose from US$55.02 million to US$73.22 million. The average production value over the 2021-2023 period stood at US$67.25 million (Table 1). This upward trend is closely associated with rising farm-gate prices and overall market value, underscoring the economic potential of the sector despite declining output.
Farm prices and retail prices of fresh duck eggs
Both farm-gate and retail prices of fresh duck eggs have exhibited a steady upward trajectory from 2014 to 2023. In January 2014, the farm-gate price was recorded at US$1.82/kg, with the retail price at US$2.47/kg. By December 2023, these figures had risen to US$2.74/kg and US$3.65/kg, respectively (Figure 1). Although the price of duck eggs tends to rise prior to the Dragon Boat Festival (due to increased demand for salted eggs) and the Mid-Autumn Festival (due to the production of mooncakes with salted egg yolks) as a result of surging market demand, the main contributing factors are the negative impacts of extreme weather conditions—such as high temperatures and heavy rainfall—on duck health and egg-laying rates. In addition, the rising international prices of key feed ingredients such as corn and soybeans, as well as increased transportation and energy costs, have further elevated overall production costs.
Geographic distribution
As of 2023, duck egg production in Taiwan remains geographically concentrated. The majority of the duck population is located in Pingtung County (44.32%) and Changhua County (36.04%), collectively accounting for over 80% of the national total (Table 2). This spatial concentration highlights the importance of regional agricultural infrastructure and targeted policy support in sustaining the industry’s core production zones.
CURRENT EXPORT SITUATION OF DUCK EGG INDUSTRY IN TAIWAN
Current export situation
Despite the potential for development, duck egg exports from Taiwan remain relatively limited in scale compared to other poultry products. The lack of a distinct Harmonized System (H.S.) Code dedicated exclusively to duck eggs has posed a significant constraint in accurately monitoring export trends. To address this data deficiency, the present study submitted a formal request to the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) on May 3, 2024, seeking access to detailed export data compiled by the Customs Administration under the Ministry of Finance for 2018-2023.
Export quantity and value during these six years were primarily recorded under two H.S. Codes: 0407900000 (Birds’ eggs, in shell, preserved or cooked) and 040891910005 (Egg yolks, frozen). The data indicates that Taiwan exported an average of 648.89 metric tons of duck egg-related products annually, corresponding to an average annual export value of approximately US$ 3.44 million. The statistic doesn’t include quail eggs that are classified in the same HS Code 0407900000. This figure represents an estimated 5.46% of duck eggs' average total domestic production value during the same period.
Disaggregated by product code, the bulk of exports—98.68% of total quantity and 94.12% of total value—was attributed to products classified under H.S. Code 0407900000. Products under H.S. Code 040891910005 accounted for the remaining 1.32% of export quantity and 5.88% of export value. These data are presented in detail in Table 3.
Major export markets
Taiwan’s primary export destinations for duck egg products between 2018 and 2023 varied by product category. For products classified under H.S. Code 0407900000 (Birds' eggs, in shell, preserved or cooked), the leading markets were the United States (60.82% of total export value), Japan (21.59%), and Australia (6.36%) (Table 4). For frozen egg yolks under H.S. Code 040891910005, the principal export markets were the United States (57.58%), Japan (42.22%), and Ghana (0.20%) (Table 5). Exported processed duck egg products include preserved duck eggs (century eggs), boiled salted duck eggs, and salted duck egg yolks. In addition to overseas Chinese, the main consumer groups also include Asian populations from countries such as Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Tariff structures of major export markets
Export competitiveness is influenced by production and quality standards and tariff barriers imposed by importing countries. The current Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) tariff rates for the major importing countries are as follows:
(1) Birds' eggs, in shell, preserved or cooked (040790000): Australia imposes a zero MFN tariff, offering a highly favorable export environment. The United States levies a tariff of 2.8 cents per dozen, while Japan imposes a comparatively higher MFN tariff rate of 21.3%.
(2) Egg yolks, frozen (040891910005): The United States applies an MFN tariff of 9.7 cents per kilogram. Japan maintains a dual-rate structure, using a tariff of either 20% or 48 yen per kilogram, whichever is greater.
These tariff structures have considerable implications for Taiwan’s market access and pricing strategies in these destination countries. The findings underscore the need for strategic engagement in bilateral or regional trade negotiations to reduce tariff barriers and enhance the competitiveness of Taiwan's duck egg products in the global market.
INDUSTRY INTERVIEWS AND KEY TOPICS
This study adopted a qualitative research design, employing semi-structured interviews to obtain in-depth insights into the operational landscape of Taiwan’s duck egg processing and export industry. The qualitative approach was selected to capture key industry stakeholders' nuanced perspectives and experiential knowledge. To this end, three major Taiwanese duck egg exporters were purposively selected for interviews based on their market presence, export volume, and industry influence. This purposive sampling strategy ensured the relevance and richness of the data collected.
The interview protocol was developed to explore three core dimensions of the industry: production practices, market operations, and trade compliance. Each dimension was framed to elicit detailed, context-specific responses that would contribute to a comprehensive understanding of industry dynamics.
Production practices
The first dimension addressed production-related issues, including strategies for raw material procurement, diversification of product portfolios (e.g., fresh, salted, and processed duck eggs), and technical or operational challenges encountered during the manufacturing process. This line of inquiry provided critical insights into supply chain dependencies, technological capacity, and production constraints within the industry.
Market operations
The second dimension focused on market structure and distribution strategies. Questions explored the relative proportions of domestic versus international sales, the mix of fresh and processed products in different markets, and the development and maintenance of distribution channels. This component also examined market entry strategies, consumer demand trends, and branding or labeling practices relevant to export markets.
Trade compliance and policy environment
The third dimension examined trade operations, with particular emphasis on compliance with domestic export regulations, challenges in meeting importing countries' sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) requirements, and other barriers to market access. Participants were also invited to offer policy recommendations to improve Taiwan’s trade competitiveness and facilitate smoother access to foreign markets.
Through this multi-dimensional analytical framework, the study sought to construct a detailed and contextually grounded understanding of the current status, opportunities, and constraints facing Taiwan’s duck egg export sector. The findings provide an empirical foundation for evidence-based recommendations to support the industry's sustainable development and international expansion.
INTERVIEW RESULTS
- Production dimension
Raw material sourcing and export product categories
Taiwan’s duck egg exporters rely on three primary procurement models for sourcing raw materials: (1) self-managed duck farming operations, (2) formal contractual partnerships with independent duck farmers, and (3) informal verbal agreements with long-term suppliers. These sourcing strategies reflect a hybrid production system that balances internal control with external supply flexibility.
The industry’s export product portfolio comprises three major categories: preserved duck eggs (century eggs), boiled salted duck eggs, and salted duck egg yolks. These processed products form the backbone of Taiwan’s duck egg exports, catering to overseas consumer preferences for traditional and value-added duck egg items.
Emerging production challenges
The sector is currently confronted with several critical production-related challenges:
(1) Climate and disease vulnerability: Climate variability and the increased incidence of avian diseases, particularly during ducklings' mid-growth stage, have adversely affected survival rates, posing risks to production continuity and yield predictability.
(2) Environmental management constraints: duck manure wastewater discharge presents (brings) a pressing environmental issue. The current application of industrial-level wastewater standards to agricultural operations is viewed as misaligned with sector-specific realities. Stakeholders have advocated for a differentiated regulatory framework that reflects livestock agriculture's unique ecological and operational characteristics.
(3) Lack of spent duck disposal systems: There is an evident need for the establishment of a comprehensive support mechanism for the utilization and disposal of spent laying ducks. This includes investment in research and development of culinary or processing technologies to convert these animals into viable food products or byproducts.
(4) High-salinity byproduct waste: The disposal of high-salinity egg whites from salted duck egg production remains problematic. Current practices of discarding these byproducts are both wasteful and environmentally harmful. Despite the environmental impact, an effective solution for this issue has yet to be developed.
- Market dimension
Production, sales structure, and distribution channels
The market composition for duck eggs in Taiwan is predominantly oriented toward domestic consumption, which accounts for approximately 94.01% of total sales, whereas exports comprise the remaining 5.99%.
Domestically, duck eggs are distributed as either fresh or processed products. Approximately 1% of fresh duck eggs are supplied by laying duck farms directly to distributors, who then channel them to traditional markets or to braised egg manufacturers. In contrast, around 99% of duck eggs are processed into value-added products and distributed via various channels, including:
(1) Agents and distributors targeting convenience stores and organic markets;
(2) Direct sales to supermarkets, hypermarkets, and e-commerce platforms;
(3) Business-to-business (B2B) channels such as restaurants, bakeries, and food manufacturing companies; and
(4) A minor proportion is also sold to grain stores and traditional market vendors through intermediate distributors.
Regarding export activity, farms equipped with integrated processing facilities typically collaborate with domestic traders or export agents to distribute their products to key international markets, including the United States, Japan, and Australia. These exports predominantly consist of preserved and processed duck egg products tailored to ethnic markets abroad.
- Trade dimension
Domestic export regulations for processed duck eggs
The exportation of processed duck egg products from Taiwan is governed by a dual-stage regulatory framework to ensure food safety and veterinary health compliance and obtain a Manufactured Sanitary Certificate issued by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA), under the Ministry of Health and Welfare. This certificate verifies adherence to domestic food hygiene and safety standards.
Subsequently, the certified products must undergo a second evaluation by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency (APHIA) under the Ministry of Agriculture. Based on the information provided in the TFDA-issued certificate, APHIA issues a Veterinary Certificate for Export of Animal Products. This sequential certification mechanism ensures comprehensive verification of public health and animal health standards, facilitating the international acceptability of Taiwan’s processed duck egg products.
Market-specific export challenges
Despite the robust certification framework, Taiwan’s exporters encounter significant market-entry barriers across various international destinations, primarily due to regulatory heterogeneity, protective tariffs, and cultural consumption patterns.
- South Korea: South Korea enforces one of the most stringent import inspection regimes for egg products. Each shipment is subjected to ten tests, including assessments for veterinary drugs and antibiotic residues, and necessitates batch-specific hygiene certification. Singapore’s inspection protocols are less exhaustive, focusing primarily on parameters such as lead, copper, Sudan red, and pH values.
- Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam: these Southeast Asian markets maintain high protective tariffs, with import duties reaching up to 60%, to safeguard their domestic duck egg industries. Furthermore, these countries have not yet established formal import channels for processed duck egg products from Taiwan, further restricting market access.
- European Union: the EU market presents unique challenges primarily due to consumer unfamiliarity and cultural aversion to products such as preserved duck eggs. European consumers often perceive these products negatively and consider exotic or unpalatable. In addition, EU food safety regulations emphasize microbial safety indicators such as the presence of botulinum toxin. Therefore, any attempt to penetrate the EU market must involve comprehensive public education initiatives and stringent adherence to sterilization standards.
- Japan: Japan has adopted particularly cautious inspection protocols following food safety incidents involving Chinese-origin preserved duck eggs, which were found to contain industrial-grade copper sulfate. In response, Japan introduced stricter copper residue standards, applying infant formula testing thresholds (≤0.6 ppm) to preserved duck eggs. These measures have increased the regulatory burden on exporters seeking to enter the Japanese market.
- Challenges within Taiwan’s export certification system:
Exporters also face procedural challenges in Taiwan’s domestic certification process:
A. First, the number of separate Manufactured Sanitary Certificates required for different duck egg product categories—results in repetitive and costly administrative procedures. The financial burden has been exacerbated by a consistent rise in certificate application fees in recent years.
B. Second, divergent thermal processing standards in destination countries necessitate the issuance of multiple, product-specific certificates. For instance, while the United States requires a minimum heating center temperature of 100°C, Australia mandates 116°C. Consequently, separate sanitary certificates must be issued for each target market, increasing regulatory complexity and transaction costs.
Quarantine requirements in key export markets
Export regulations for processed duck eggs vary considerably across importing countries, reflecting differences in public health priorities and risk tolerance. For markets such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, exporters must obtain an Export Animal Product Quarantine Certificate issued by the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine (reshuffled as the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency on August 1, 2023).
The United States enforces rigorous standards for preserved duck eggs. Regulations require that these products be immersed in a high-alkaline solution (pH >10) for at least 45 days to ensure pathogen inactivation. Canada focuses on product cleanliness, stipulating that exported eggs must be entirely free of visible contaminants such as soil or straw. In contrast, Japan does not require a manufactured sanitary certificate for preserved and salted duck eggs, although copper content regulations remain in effect.
Table 6 provides a detailed summary of these market-specific quarantine protocols, offering a valuable reference for industry stakeholders seeking to enhance compliance and streamline their export operations.
Table 6. Quarantine requirements of importing countries for processed duck egg products exported from Taiwan
|
Country
|
Item
|
Quarantine requirements
|
|
USA
|
preserved duck eggs
|
- The eggs have been cleaned and no foreign substances are attached to the surface.
- The eggs are immersed in an environment with a pH value above 10 for at least 45 days.
|
|
boiled salted duck eggs
|
- The eggs are the only animal-origin ingredient in the exported product.
- The product reaches a minimum core temperature of 74°C or is heated at a minimum temperature of 110°C for at least 40 minutes.
|
|
salted duck egg yolks
|
- The eggs are the only animal-origin ingredient in the exported product.
- The product reaches a minimum core temperature of 74°C.
|
|
Canada
|
preserved duck eggs
|
- All eggs in the shipment originated from flocks clinically free from Velogenic Newcastle disease and fowl plague (highly pathogenic avian influenza).
- All eggs in the shipment have been inspected and found to be free from all visible surface dirt before processing
- All eggs in the shipment have either been candled or found to be non-embryonated or free of blood clots or spots.
- All eggs are fresh and clean, with no dirt or straw contamination on the surface.
- All eggs have been soaked in a solution composed of water, tea leaves, salt, quicklime, and alkali for at least 45 days.
|
|
Australia
|
boiled salted duck eggs
|
- The product does not contain any animal ingredients such as cow, sheep or goat.
- The eggs are cooked and heated to a core temperature of at least 100°C, with a sterilization value (F0) ≥ 2.8.
|
|
Japan
|
salted duck egg yolks
|
- At least 90 days before the export of eggs, there is no outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, Newcastle disease, fowl cholera or other serious poultry diseases within a radius of 50 kilometers from the source of the eggs.
- The product reaches a minimum core temperature of 74°C and no visible surface dirt.
|
Source: Yang (2022).
CONCLUSIONS
Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of production statistics, export performance data, international market conditions, tariff frameworks, and qualitative insights obtained through industry stakeholder interviews, this study proposes a set of strategic recommendations to enhance the global competitiveness of Taiwan’s duck egg industry. The proposed strategies seek to balance the objectives of maintaining domestic market stability while promoting export growth by establishing an integrated and resilient supply chain system that ensures consistent supply, high quality, and adherence to food safety standards across the entire production, processing, and distribution continuum.
In terms of production strategies, the adoption of smart agriculture technologies is recommended as a means of improving operational efficiency. In particular, the integration of precision feeding systems can contribute to optimized resource allocation, reduced labor dependency, lower production costs, and enhanced risk management capabilities. Moreover, in anticipation of the European Union’s complete transition away from cage-based farming systems by 2027, Taiwan’s producers targeting EU markets must incorporate animal welfare considerations into their farm management protocols. Compliance with these emerging welfare standards is critical for market entry and long-term competitiveness in European markets.
Regarding processing enhancement and product innovation, advancements in industrial processing capacity and the attainment of internationally recognized food safety certifications are imperative for expanding into existing and emerging markets, including halal and culturally distinct markets. To support this transformation, the government should establish a dedicated export evaluation committee responsible for assessing the export readiness of manufacturers and product lines. This should be coupled with introducing targeted incentive schemes that encourage product innovation in line with consumer preferences in overseas markets. Such efforts would improve the quality and diversity of exportable products and enhance their market acceptance and commercial viability.
Regarding export market prioritization and regulatory reform, strategic focus should be placed on high-income countries with favorable trade conditions—namely, low or zero tariff rates, high demand for quality-assured food products, and rigorous but transparent import regulations. Australia and Japan exemplify such markets and should therefore be considered as priority destinations for export development. In addition, enhanced regulatory coordination between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health and Welfare is necessary to facilitate smoother market access. Policy reforms should aim to streamline the sanitary certification process by (1) reducing the frequency and cost of Manufactured Sanitary Certificate applications, and (2) developing a harmonized certificate system that allows for mutual recognition of sanitary approvals across multiple export destinations, provided that key technical parameters—such as processing temperatures—are met. Establishing a standardized certification protocol would substantially lower transaction costs for exporters and improve efficiency across the certification-to-export pipeline.
REFERENCES
Yang, M., 2022, Overview of the Quarantine of Exported Processed Eggs by the Kaohsiung Branch of the Agency for Disease Control and Prevention, Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine, Issue 2, pp. 18-21.
The Current Production and Export Situation of the Duck Egg Industry in Taiwan
ABSTRACT
Amid ongoing trends of global trade liberalization, duck eggs constitute one of the few livestock and poultry products actively exported from Taiwan. Nevertheless, the industry has encountered mounting production-related vulnerabilities in recent years. These include the recurrent threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), the adverse effects of climate change, and broader geopolitical disruptions such as the Russia–Ukraine conflict. Concurrently, the industry faces escalating costs throughout the production and sales supply chain, encompassing feed, breeding, processing, logistics, labor, and energy inputs, compounded by labor shortages and the demographic challenge of an aging agricultural workforce. Beyond these short- and long-term operational challenges, the industry must face tariff and non-tariff trade barriers in export markets. Limited research examining the current production and export status of Taiwan's duck egg industry, its operational challenges, and importing countries' quarantine requirements. This lack of comprehensive analysis has hindered exporters' ability to expand their market presence. This study aims to investigate the current status of Taiwan's duck egg industry, its production and export challenges, and the importing countries' quarantine requirements. Based on these findings, the study will propose recommendations for production, processing, and export strategies to enhance Taiwan's duck egg industry's efficiency, resilience, and international competitiveness.
Keywords: duck egg, supply chain, quarantine requirements
INTRODUCTION
International economic and trade liberalization and the deepening of regional economic integration have emerged as dominant trends in global development. As countries gradually sign regional trade agreements to eliminate trade barriers, market liberalization continues to progress. Under global trade liberalization, livestock and poultry products face more non-tariff trade barriers than non-biological products. Therefore, duck eggs have become one of the few livestock and poultry products in Taiwan with export potential. In 2023, the production value of Taiwan’s duck egg industry amounted to US$73,217,000, with exports reaching US$3,865,650, constituting roughly 5.28% of the total production value.
The duck egg industry in Taiwan encounters numerous production challenges. Traditional high-density farming practices, limited economies of scale, and constraints in land acquisition have hindered the sector’s overall development. Rising production and supply chain costs, encompassing feed, rearing, processing, and distribution, exacerbate these structural limitations. Additionally, the industry is burdened by increasing labor wages, elevated fuel and raw material prices, chronic labor shortages, and an aging agricultural workforce.
Beyond economic challenges, the sector also faces significant technical and environmental challenges. Climate change and recurrent avian influenza outbreaks have adversely impacted duck farming activities. Concurrently, issues related to environmental management—such as the treatment of duck manure wastewater and the disposal of surplus salted duck egg protein—remain inadequately addressed.
On the export front, the industry must contend with both tariff and non-tariff trade barriers, which collectively constrain its capacity to expand into new international markets. Despite these various challenges, limited research exists examining the current status of Taiwan's duck egg industry, its production and export challenges, and the quarantine requirements enforced by importing countries.
This study aims to comprehensively analyze Taiwan's duck egg industry by examining the current production and export situation, identifying key challenges, and investigating the quarantine requirements of key importing countries. The results will provide strategic recommendations for production, processing, and export practices, serving as a valuable reference for exporters and agricultural policymakers. These recommendations are designed to enhance Taiwan's duck egg industry's efficiency, resilience, and international competitiveness.
CURRENT PRODUCTION SITUATION OF DUCK EGG INDUSTRY IN TAIWAN
According to longitudinal data compiled from the Livestock and Poultry Statistics Survey conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), the duck egg industry in Taiwan has undergone significant structural changes over the past decade. The analysis of key indicators, including the number of farms, head on farms, egg production, production value, market prices, and regional distribution—offers insight into the dynamics and emerging challenges of the industry. The following trends were observed in Taiwan's duck egg industry over the period of 2014-2023:
Number of farms
In the past 10 years (2014-2023), the number of duck farms in Taiwan declined, falling from 446 farms in 2014 to 348 in 2022. However, a modest recovery was observed in 2023, with the number of farms increasing to 369. The average number of farms over the past three years (2021-2023) is 361, as shown in Table 1. This fluctuation reflects broader structural adjustments within the sector, potentially influenced by environmental regulations, economic pressures, and shifts in land use policy.
Head on farms
The total number of ducks raised has similarly declined, decreasing from 2.143 million heads in 2014 to 1.823 million in 2022. A slight increase to 1.929 million heads was recorded in 2023. The average flock size over 2021–2023 was approximately 1.904 million heads (Table 1). These figures suggest a persistent contraction in production capacity, albeit with recent signs of stabilization.
Duck eggs production
Duck egg production has shown a gradual but consistent downward trend over the past decade. Total production declined from 433 million eggs in 2014 to 411 million in 2023. The mean annual output between 2021 and 2023 was approximately 412 million eggs (Table 1). Despite the reduction in overall output, the sector has demonstrated resilience in maintaining relatively stable production levels in recent years.
Production value
In contrast to the downward trends in farm numbers, head on farms, and production volume, the total production value of duck eggs has shown a marked increase. From 2014 to 2023, production value rose from US$55.02 million to US$73.22 million. The average production value over the 2021-2023 period stood at US$67.25 million (Table 1). This upward trend is closely associated with rising farm-gate prices and overall market value, underscoring the economic potential of the sector despite declining output.
Farm prices and retail prices of fresh duck eggs
Both farm-gate and retail prices of fresh duck eggs have exhibited a steady upward trajectory from 2014 to 2023. In January 2014, the farm-gate price was recorded at US$1.82/kg, with the retail price at US$2.47/kg. By December 2023, these figures had risen to US$2.74/kg and US$3.65/kg, respectively (Figure 1). Although the price of duck eggs tends to rise prior to the Dragon Boat Festival (due to increased demand for salted eggs) and the Mid-Autumn Festival (due to the production of mooncakes with salted egg yolks) as a result of surging market demand, the main contributing factors are the negative impacts of extreme weather conditions—such as high temperatures and heavy rainfall—on duck health and egg-laying rates. In addition, the rising international prices of key feed ingredients such as corn and soybeans, as well as increased transportation and energy costs, have further elevated overall production costs.
Geographic distribution
As of 2023, duck egg production in Taiwan remains geographically concentrated. The majority of the duck population is located in Pingtung County (44.32%) and Changhua County (36.04%), collectively accounting for over 80% of the national total (Table 2). This spatial concentration highlights the importance of regional agricultural infrastructure and targeted policy support in sustaining the industry’s core production zones.
CURRENT EXPORT SITUATION OF DUCK EGG INDUSTRY IN TAIWAN
Current export situation
Despite the potential for development, duck egg exports from Taiwan remain relatively limited in scale compared to other poultry products. The lack of a distinct Harmonized System (H.S.) Code dedicated exclusively to duck eggs has posed a significant constraint in accurately monitoring export trends. To address this data deficiency, the present study submitted a formal request to the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) on May 3, 2024, seeking access to detailed export data compiled by the Customs Administration under the Ministry of Finance for 2018-2023.
Export quantity and value during these six years were primarily recorded under two H.S. Codes: 0407900000 (Birds’ eggs, in shell, preserved or cooked) and 040891910005 (Egg yolks, frozen). The data indicates that Taiwan exported an average of 648.89 metric tons of duck egg-related products annually, corresponding to an average annual export value of approximately US$ 3.44 million. The statistic doesn’t include quail eggs that are classified in the same HS Code 0407900000. This figure represents an estimated 5.46% of duck eggs' average total domestic production value during the same period.
Disaggregated by product code, the bulk of exports—98.68% of total quantity and 94.12% of total value—was attributed to products classified under H.S. Code 0407900000. Products under H.S. Code 040891910005 accounted for the remaining 1.32% of export quantity and 5.88% of export value. These data are presented in detail in Table 3.
Major export markets
Taiwan’s primary export destinations for duck egg products between 2018 and 2023 varied by product category. For products classified under H.S. Code 0407900000 (Birds' eggs, in shell, preserved or cooked), the leading markets were the United States (60.82% of total export value), Japan (21.59%), and Australia (6.36%) (Table 4). For frozen egg yolks under H.S. Code 040891910005, the principal export markets were the United States (57.58%), Japan (42.22%), and Ghana (0.20%) (Table 5). Exported processed duck egg products include preserved duck eggs (century eggs), boiled salted duck eggs, and salted duck egg yolks. In addition to overseas Chinese, the main consumer groups also include Asian populations from countries such as Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Tariff structures of major export markets
Export competitiveness is influenced by production and quality standards and tariff barriers imposed by importing countries. The current Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) tariff rates for the major importing countries are as follows:
(1) Birds' eggs, in shell, preserved or cooked (040790000): Australia imposes a zero MFN tariff, offering a highly favorable export environment. The United States levies a tariff of 2.8 cents per dozen, while Japan imposes a comparatively higher MFN tariff rate of 21.3%.
(2) Egg yolks, frozen (040891910005): The United States applies an MFN tariff of 9.7 cents per kilogram. Japan maintains a dual-rate structure, using a tariff of either 20% or 48 yen per kilogram, whichever is greater.
These tariff structures have considerable implications for Taiwan’s market access and pricing strategies in these destination countries. The findings underscore the need for strategic engagement in bilateral or regional trade negotiations to reduce tariff barriers and enhance the competitiveness of Taiwan's duck egg products in the global market.
INDUSTRY INTERVIEWS AND KEY TOPICS
This study adopted a qualitative research design, employing semi-structured interviews to obtain in-depth insights into the operational landscape of Taiwan’s duck egg processing and export industry. The qualitative approach was selected to capture key industry stakeholders' nuanced perspectives and experiential knowledge. To this end, three major Taiwanese duck egg exporters were purposively selected for interviews based on their market presence, export volume, and industry influence. This purposive sampling strategy ensured the relevance and richness of the data collected.
The interview protocol was developed to explore three core dimensions of the industry: production practices, market operations, and trade compliance. Each dimension was framed to elicit detailed, context-specific responses that would contribute to a comprehensive understanding of industry dynamics.
Production practices
The first dimension addressed production-related issues, including strategies for raw material procurement, diversification of product portfolios (e.g., fresh, salted, and processed duck eggs), and technical or operational challenges encountered during the manufacturing process. This line of inquiry provided critical insights into supply chain dependencies, technological capacity, and production constraints within the industry.
Market operations
The second dimension focused on market structure and distribution strategies. Questions explored the relative proportions of domestic versus international sales, the mix of fresh and processed products in different markets, and the development and maintenance of distribution channels. This component also examined market entry strategies, consumer demand trends, and branding or labeling practices relevant to export markets.
Trade compliance and policy environment
The third dimension examined trade operations, with particular emphasis on compliance with domestic export regulations, challenges in meeting importing countries' sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) requirements, and other barriers to market access. Participants were also invited to offer policy recommendations to improve Taiwan’s trade competitiveness and facilitate smoother access to foreign markets.
Through this multi-dimensional analytical framework, the study sought to construct a detailed and contextually grounded understanding of the current status, opportunities, and constraints facing Taiwan’s duck egg export sector. The findings provide an empirical foundation for evidence-based recommendations to support the industry's sustainable development and international expansion.
INTERVIEW RESULTS
Raw material sourcing and export product categories
Taiwan’s duck egg exporters rely on three primary procurement models for sourcing raw materials: (1) self-managed duck farming operations, (2) formal contractual partnerships with independent duck farmers, and (3) informal verbal agreements with long-term suppliers. These sourcing strategies reflect a hybrid production system that balances internal control with external supply flexibility.
The industry’s export product portfolio comprises three major categories: preserved duck eggs (century eggs), boiled salted duck eggs, and salted duck egg yolks. These processed products form the backbone of Taiwan’s duck egg exports, catering to overseas consumer preferences for traditional and value-added duck egg items.
Emerging production challenges
The sector is currently confronted with several critical production-related challenges:
(1) Climate and disease vulnerability: Climate variability and the increased incidence of avian diseases, particularly during ducklings' mid-growth stage, have adversely affected survival rates, posing risks to production continuity and yield predictability.
(2) Environmental management constraints: duck manure wastewater discharge presents (brings) a pressing environmental issue. The current application of industrial-level wastewater standards to agricultural operations is viewed as misaligned with sector-specific realities. Stakeholders have advocated for a differentiated regulatory framework that reflects livestock agriculture's unique ecological and operational characteristics.
(3) Lack of spent duck disposal systems: There is an evident need for the establishment of a comprehensive support mechanism for the utilization and disposal of spent laying ducks. This includes investment in research and development of culinary or processing technologies to convert these animals into viable food products or byproducts.
(4) High-salinity byproduct waste: The disposal of high-salinity egg whites from salted duck egg production remains problematic. Current practices of discarding these byproducts are both wasteful and environmentally harmful. Despite the environmental impact, an effective solution for this issue has yet to be developed.
Production, sales structure, and distribution channels
The market composition for duck eggs in Taiwan is predominantly oriented toward domestic consumption, which accounts for approximately 94.01% of total sales, whereas exports comprise the remaining 5.99%.
Domestically, duck eggs are distributed as either fresh or processed products. Approximately 1% of fresh duck eggs are supplied by laying duck farms directly to distributors, who then channel them to traditional markets or to braised egg manufacturers. In contrast, around 99% of duck eggs are processed into value-added products and distributed via various channels, including:
(1) Agents and distributors targeting convenience stores and organic markets;
(2) Direct sales to supermarkets, hypermarkets, and e-commerce platforms;
(3) Business-to-business (B2B) channels such as restaurants, bakeries, and food manufacturing companies; and
(4) A minor proportion is also sold to grain stores and traditional market vendors through intermediate distributors.
Regarding export activity, farms equipped with integrated processing facilities typically collaborate with domestic traders or export agents to distribute their products to key international markets, including the United States, Japan, and Australia. These exports predominantly consist of preserved and processed duck egg products tailored to ethnic markets abroad.
Domestic export regulations for processed duck eggs
The exportation of processed duck egg products from Taiwan is governed by a dual-stage regulatory framework to ensure food safety and veterinary health compliance and obtain a Manufactured Sanitary Certificate issued by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA), under the Ministry of Health and Welfare. This certificate verifies adherence to domestic food hygiene and safety standards.
Subsequently, the certified products must undergo a second evaluation by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency (APHIA) under the Ministry of Agriculture. Based on the information provided in the TFDA-issued certificate, APHIA issues a Veterinary Certificate for Export of Animal Products. This sequential certification mechanism ensures comprehensive verification of public health and animal health standards, facilitating the international acceptability of Taiwan’s processed duck egg products.
Market-specific export challenges
Despite the robust certification framework, Taiwan’s exporters encounter significant market-entry barriers across various international destinations, primarily due to regulatory heterogeneity, protective tariffs, and cultural consumption patterns.
Exporters also face procedural challenges in Taiwan’s domestic certification process:
A. First, the number of separate Manufactured Sanitary Certificates required for different duck egg product categories—results in repetitive and costly administrative procedures. The financial burden has been exacerbated by a consistent rise in certificate application fees in recent years.
B. Second, divergent thermal processing standards in destination countries necessitate the issuance of multiple, product-specific certificates. For instance, while the United States requires a minimum heating center temperature of 100°C, Australia mandates 116°C. Consequently, separate sanitary certificates must be issued for each target market, increasing regulatory complexity and transaction costs.
Quarantine requirements in key export markets
Export regulations for processed duck eggs vary considerably across importing countries, reflecting differences in public health priorities and risk tolerance. For markets such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, exporters must obtain an Export Animal Product Quarantine Certificate issued by the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine (reshuffled as the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency on August 1, 2023).
The United States enforces rigorous standards for preserved duck eggs. Regulations require that these products be immersed in a high-alkaline solution (pH >10) for at least 45 days to ensure pathogen inactivation. Canada focuses on product cleanliness, stipulating that exported eggs must be entirely free of visible contaminants such as soil or straw. In contrast, Japan does not require a manufactured sanitary certificate for preserved and salted duck eggs, although copper content regulations remain in effect.
Table 6 provides a detailed summary of these market-specific quarantine protocols, offering a valuable reference for industry stakeholders seeking to enhance compliance and streamline their export operations.
Table 6. Quarantine requirements of importing countries for processed duck egg products exported from Taiwan
Country
Item
Quarantine requirements
USA
preserved duck eggs
boiled salted duck eggs
salted duck egg yolks
Canada
preserved duck eggs
Australia
boiled salted duck eggs
Japan
salted duck egg yolks
Source: Yang (2022).
CONCLUSIONS
Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of production statistics, export performance data, international market conditions, tariff frameworks, and qualitative insights obtained through industry stakeholder interviews, this study proposes a set of strategic recommendations to enhance the global competitiveness of Taiwan’s duck egg industry. The proposed strategies seek to balance the objectives of maintaining domestic market stability while promoting export growth by establishing an integrated and resilient supply chain system that ensures consistent supply, high quality, and adherence to food safety standards across the entire production, processing, and distribution continuum.
In terms of production strategies, the adoption of smart agriculture technologies is recommended as a means of improving operational efficiency. In particular, the integration of precision feeding systems can contribute to optimized resource allocation, reduced labor dependency, lower production costs, and enhanced risk management capabilities. Moreover, in anticipation of the European Union’s complete transition away from cage-based farming systems by 2027, Taiwan’s producers targeting EU markets must incorporate animal welfare considerations into their farm management protocols. Compliance with these emerging welfare standards is critical for market entry and long-term competitiveness in European markets.
Regarding processing enhancement and product innovation, advancements in industrial processing capacity and the attainment of internationally recognized food safety certifications are imperative for expanding into existing and emerging markets, including halal and culturally distinct markets. To support this transformation, the government should establish a dedicated export evaluation committee responsible for assessing the export readiness of manufacturers and product lines. This should be coupled with introducing targeted incentive schemes that encourage product innovation in line with consumer preferences in overseas markets. Such efforts would improve the quality and diversity of exportable products and enhance their market acceptance and commercial viability.
Regarding export market prioritization and regulatory reform, strategic focus should be placed on high-income countries with favorable trade conditions—namely, low or zero tariff rates, high demand for quality-assured food products, and rigorous but transparent import regulations. Australia and Japan exemplify such markets and should therefore be considered as priority destinations for export development. In addition, enhanced regulatory coordination between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health and Welfare is necessary to facilitate smoother market access. Policy reforms should aim to streamline the sanitary certification process by (1) reducing the frequency and cost of Manufactured Sanitary Certificate applications, and (2) developing a harmonized certificate system that allows for mutual recognition of sanitary approvals across multiple export destinations, provided that key technical parameters—such as processing temperatures—are met. Establishing a standardized certification protocol would substantially lower transaction costs for exporters and improve efficiency across the certification-to-export pipeline.
REFERENCES
Yang, M., 2022, Overview of the Quarantine of Exported Processed Eggs by the Kaohsiung Branch of the Agency for Disease Control and Prevention, Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine, Issue 2, pp. 18-21.