The spokesperson for the incoming Cabinet, Tung Chen-yuan, says it’s too early to say if Taiwan will allow the import of US pork containing ractopamine. That’s following speculation that the incoming administration was considering allowing pork imports with traces of the leanness-enhancing agent.
Tung said Monday that Taiwan will not negotiate the matter with the US government in the near future.
Tung said the incoming administration has yet to assess its policy regarding US pork imports. He said the current policies focus on four main goals: forming a complete food safety system, increasing pig farmers’ competitiveness, keeping up with international standards, and facilitating communication between the government and the people.
“After we achieve the four goals, we will then start negotiations and design complimentary measures. I think the issue should not be whittled down to either opening up [imports] or not, as there are many preconditions that need to be met," said Tung.
Tung said the issue involves agencies that deal with diplomacy, agriculture, and health.