DFNet

August 16, 2025 | Taiwan News |

Premier Cho Jung-tai visited Taitung County to assess agricultural losses caused by Typhoon Podul, urging rapid recovery support for affected farmers. Joined by Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-Jih, he toured damaged custard apple and banana farms and emphasized better coordination between central and local authorities to ensure farmers feel fully supported.

Government reports show around 2,794 hectares of farmland were damaged, with estimated crop losses reaching NT$304.9 million (US$10.2 million). Custard apples, bananas, ginger, and pomelos were particularly hard hit, many still in their growth stage.

The Agriculture Ministry announced that nearly all crops in Taitung, except rice, qualify for cash aid and low-interest loans. To speed relief, certain crops such as custard apples, bananas, guavas, and pomelos will not require on-site inspections before assistance is provided.

Cash aid will cover approximately 20% of farmers’ losses, while reconstruction subsidies can fund up to 80% of specific recovery projects. Additional measures include one-year interest-free disaster loans, increased loan ceilings, and the option for farmers to defer principal payments for up to two years on existing loans. These initiatives aim to stabilize farming livelihoods and accelerate agricultural recovery in the aftermath of the storm.

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