Agricultural losses mount in Taiwan and Japan due to heavy rain and typhoons

Heavy rains and frequent typhoons have caused significant agricultural damage across Taiwan and Japan.

In Taiwan, the Ministry of Agriculture reported total losses of NT$283.04 million following heavy rainfall in late August. The damage affected approximately 3,318 hectares of crops, with papaya being the most severely impacted, suffering losses of NT$34.74 million. Other affected crops include guava, scallions, wax apples, and bananas. Geographically, Kaohsiung reported the highest losses at NT$104 million, followed by Yunlin, Chiayi, Pingtung, and Tainan. Losses also extended to livestock, such as poultry, and fisheries, particularly milkfish.

In Japan, particularly in Okinawa, successive typhoons have disrupted farming operations. Farmers are facing reduced harvests and shipments, as well as delays in planting. The frequent storms have created a cycle of damage, hitting farmlands shortly after they were reorganized. These weather events, combined with rising material costs, are placing significant financial strain on agricultural households.