Evolution of the eel culture industry in Taiwan

Abstract

Eel farming is the most important aquaculture industry in Taiwan. In 1989, eel culture production in both quantity and value ranked first. Among all agricultural products exported to Japan. eel exports ranked first. From a production and productivity point of view, the eel culture industry in Taiwan has gone through four stages since its introduction in 1923, namely, experimental stage, dormant stage, growing stage, and prosperous and adjustment stage. Factors which affect its development are analyzed from technical, social, and economic aspects. Future developmental directions of this industry are laid out with particular consideration of the competition from the new major supplier of cultured eel, mainland China.