Taiwanese orchid growers are gearing up ahead of an annual trade fair set to be held in the southern city of Tainan this weekend.
The Taiwan International Orchid Show has established itself as a key industry event since its inauguration eleven years ago. The show is seen as one of the three most important orchid shows in the world. The other two are the Japan Grand Prix International Orchid Festival and the World Orchid Conference.
Agriculture Minister Chen Bao-ji said Monday that Taiwan has earned the name of “Kingdom of orchids” for its high-quality plants. He also spoke about his hopes for the future of Taiwan’s orchid industry.
“The agriculture ministry has made a lot of breakthroughs in exporting orchids," said Chen. "In addition to selling orchids, we are hoping that in the next ten years, we can also promote our orchid industry.”
The fair opens on the first weekend of March every year, when Taiwan’s orchids are most resplendent. This year's show will be held from March 7-16, under the theme of “The Moment,” at an exhibition site of around 19,800 square meters.