1. MOA Increases Death Assistance for National Fishermen Engaged in Maritime Operations or Coastal Harvesting

To improve the welfare of fishermen and support the families of those who suffer accidents, the Ministry of Agriculture has revised the "Fishermen's Maritime Operation Insurance and Assistance Regulations," increasing the death assistance for national fishermen. The revised regulations officially took effect on November 30, 2024. The Fisheries Agency stated that marine fisheries operations carry significant risks. To provide greater protection for fishermen, if a national fisherman dies during maritime operations or coastal harvesting, the family members can apply for assistance through the local fishermen’s association, ensuring timely support for their livelihood. To further strengthen the protection for fishermen engaged in fishing operations, starting from November 30, 2024, the death assistance amount has been increased from the current maximum of NT$1.5 million to NT$2 million.

2. Singapore to reopen to raw pork from Taiwan

Singapore is to allow imports of Taiwanese raw pork for the first time in 15 years, the Ministry of Agriculture said on November 30. The Singapore Food Agency has approved imports of fresh pork produced by New Taipei City-based Cha I Shan Foods, which had obtained a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification from the ministry to export to Singapore, it said. The ministry said it had hoped Singapore would permit Taiwanese fresh pork imports in addition to processed pork products.