Taiwan: A Growing Opportunity for Food and Beverage Exporters

Written by: Will Gordon, Commercial Director

When exporters think about East Asia, the focus often falls on China, Japan and South Korea. Yet Taiwan - with 23 million consumers, strong disposable incomes and a high reliance on imported products - is a sophisticated and attractive market that deserves greater attention.

A Market Oriented Toward Imports

Taiwan relies heavily on food imports beyond its domestic staples. As a result, consumers are open to international products and willing to pay premiums for quality, health and sustainability. Past food safety incidents have strengthened the perception that foreign products are safer and more reliable, particularly when sourced from countries with strong regulatory reputations such as New Zealand, Australia and the U.K.

Key Consumer Trends

  • Health & Wellness: Growing demand for natural, organic, low-sugar and functional food and beverages.

  • Convenience: Urban lifestyles fuel interest in high-quality, ready-to-eat meals, snacks and beverages.

  • Protein & Dairy: Substantial imports of milk powder, cheese, beef, lamb and seafood continue to drive opportunity.

Distribution Channels

Taiwan has a modern and competitive retail environment. Carrefour, PX Mart and Costco dominate the grocery sector, each expanding their imported ranges.

E-commerce is one of the fastest-growing segments. Platforms such as Momo, Shopee and PChome are increasingly important routes for new entrants, offering direct-to-consumer access and brand visibility.

The food service sector is equally significant. Taiwan’s vibrant café culture, bubble tea industry and diverse restaurant scene create demand for a wide range of imported ingredients - from premium proteins and dairy to specialty products.

Market Access and Trade Advantage

New Zealand suppliers benefit from the ANZTEC free trade agreement, which eliminates tariffs on most food and beverage categories. This provides a clear competitive advantage over exporters from markets such as the U.S., Japan and the EU. Australia and the U.K., while well-regarded, do not currently enjoy the same tariff relief.

Market Challenges

  • Competition: Established players from the U.S., Japan and Europe hold strong positions.

  • Regulatory Compliance: Strict labelling and product registration requirements must be met without exception.

  • Distribution Partnerships: Success hinges on working with capable local partners who understand both retail and online channels.

Taiwan at a Glance

  • Population: ~23 million

  • Urbanisation: ~80% live in cities

  • GDP per capita: ~USD 35,000

  • Food imports: Over 70% of total food demand supplied by imports

  • Household spending on food & beverages: ~20% of total expenditure

  • Grocery retail market: Estimated USD 50+ billion annually

  • Modern trade penetration: Supermarkets and hypermarkets account for more than 65% of grocery sales

  • E-commerce: Food & beverage is one of the fastest-growing online categories with annual growth >10% in recent years

Why Taiwan, Why Now?

Taiwan may be smaller than its regional neighbours, but it offers:

  • A premium, import-reliant consumer base.

  • Trust in foreign brands, particularly in food and beverage.

  • Growth in imported product demand, which has accelerated in recent years.

For exporters willing to adapt to local preferences and invest in trusted partnerships, Taiwan represents a stable, high-value addition to an Asia growth strategy.

Thinking about Taiwan for your export growth strategy?

At Incite, we help food and beverage brands identify market opportunities and partner with trusted distribution partners. Get in touch to explore how we can help you enter and succeed in Taiwan.

Cameron Gordon