Fresh pineapples from Vietnam are not yet authorized for export to Taiwan, but Vietnamese pineapple products have already established a presence in this market.
Product Classification
Table of Contents
According to Taiwan’s customs classification, pineapples and pineapple-based products are categorized under several HS codes, including fresh pineapples, dried pineapples, frozen pineapples, and processed or canned pineapple products.
Import Policy
Pineapple is one of Taiwan’s key agricultural exports and a protected domestic crop. As such, imported pineapples are subject to high tariff rates.
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Fresh and dried pineapples: Import tariffs range from 173% to 204%, depending on the country of origin.
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Frozen pineapples (without added sugar or sweeteners): Import duties range from 26% to 50%.
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Processed or canned pineapples: Import duties range from 15% to 40%.
For Vietnam, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rates are 173% (fresh), 26% (frozen), and 15% (processed). However, fresh pineapples from Vietnam are still not permitted for export as the market access risk assessment process has not yet been completed.
Import Quarantine and Safety Requirements
All pineapple products imported into Taiwan must comply with the “List of Goods Subject to Animal and Plant Quarantine” and related phytosanitary requirements issued by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency (APHIA) (Code B01).
Additionally, products must undergo inspection by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) (Code F01). Certain products may also be subject to legal testing for traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients as announced by the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW).
Market Overview
1. Fresh Pineapples (HS 08043010000)
According to Taiwan’s TITA statistics, in 2024 Taiwan imported fresh pineapples only from two partners — the Philippines and Thailand, with a total import value of USD 1.44 million. The Philippines accounted for 99.99% of these imports.
2. Dried Pineapples (HS 08043020008)
In 2024, Taiwan imported dried pineapples exclusively from South Korea, with a total value of only USD 3,866, indicating a small-scale market.
3. Frozen Pineapples (HS 08119026000)
In 2024, Taiwan imported frozen pineapples (without added sugar) from Canada, Vietnam, Costa Rica, and Chile, with a total import value of USD 52,236, up 14.63% year-on-year.
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Canada led the market with USD 34,207 (65.48% share).
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Vietnam ranked second with USD 14,346 (27.46% share).
Interestingly, while the Philippines exported USD 27,140 worth of frozen pineapples to Taiwan in 2023, there were no imports from the Philippines in 2024.
4. Processed Pineapples (HS 200820)
In 2024, Taiwan imported processed or canned pineapple products from nine countries, totaling USD 5.14 million, a 4.22% decrease from 2023.
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Thailand remained the leading supplier, accounting for 80.44% of total imports.
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Indonesia ranked second with 13.14%.
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Vietnam ranked third, exporting USD 164,616, equivalent to 3.2% market share.
Summary
While fresh pineapple exports from Vietnam have yet to enter Taiwan’s market, Vietnam’s processed pineapple exports are gaining traction, particularly in the frozen and canned product segments.
Future opportunities will depend on completing market access risk assessments and complying with Taiwan’s strict quarantine and food safety regulations.