In the wake of Typhoon Kong-rey, Taiwan’s agricultural sector is grappling with significant financial setbacks, with reported losses reaching at least NT$1.32 billion (US$41.15 million), according to the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA).
Impact of Typhoon Kong-rey
The typhoon, which struck Taiwan on October 31, unleashed destructive winds and heavy rainfall that have severely impacted farms and agricultural facilities across the country. As of 5 p.m. Monday, the MOA released detailed figures on the extent of the damages.
Hardest Hit Regions
The MOA’s assessment indicates that Yunlin County bore the brunt of the storm, suffering losses estimated at NT$365 million, which accounts for 28% of the total agricultural losses. Other affected areas include:
| County | Estimated Losses (NT$ million) |
|---|---|
| Yunlin | 365 |
| Hualien | 317 |
| Taichung | 296 |
| Taitung | 179 |
Crop-Specific Damages
The damages vary significantly by crop type, with the most substantial losses recorded in the following categories:
- Pears: Affected 640 hectares in Taichung, resulting in losses of NT$233 million.
- Second-Phase Rice Harvests: Suffered losses of NT$294 million, predominantly in Hualien and Taitung.
- Sugar Apples: Losses amounted to NT$169 million in Taitung.
- Garlic: In Yunlin, garlic crops faced losses of NT$91.75 million.
Additionally, the poultry industry incurred losses of at least NT$7.67 million, while private agricultural facilities reported damages totaling NT$185 million. The MOA expects these figures to rise as more reports from affected areas come in.
Ongoing Assessments
Officials have been actively inspecting the damage in various regions, promising relief efforts to assist farmers in recovering from the devastating effects of the typhoon. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as assessments continue.
Conclusion
The repercussions of Typhoon Kong-rey highlight the vulnerabilities within Taiwan’s agricultural sector, particularly in the face of increasingly severe weather events. With substantial financial losses and a need for recovery, the focus now shifts to support and rehabilitation for affected farmers.
FAQs
1. How much have the agricultural losses reached after Typhoon Kong-rey?
Losses have reached at least NT$1.32 billion (US$41.15 million).
2. Which county experienced the highest losses?
Yunlin County suffered the most significant losses, estimated at NT$365 million.
3. What are the major crops affected by the typhoon?
Pears, rice, sugar apples, and garlic have seen substantial losses.
4. Are the loss figures expected to change?
Yes, the figures are expected to be updated as more reports are received.
5. What relief efforts are being promised to affected farmers?
Officials are conducting inspections and have pledged support to assist farmers in recovery.
