The Californer - Taiwan Showcases Flavory New Foods During 2024 US and Canada Trade Mission

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MIAMI BEACH, Fla., Oct. 3, 2024 ~ As Taiwanese food continues to gain popularity around the world, Taiwanese food companies are taking their most sought-after beverages and snacks to the United States and Canada through a global initiative called "Taiwan Select." This program, sponsored by the Taiwan External Development Trade Company (TAITRA) and the International Trade Administration, aims to expand the reach of award-winning Taiwanese foods by pairing local companies with North American suppliers.

The trade mission, which originated in Los Angeles, recently made a stop at the Miami Beach Convention Center for the America's Food and Beverage Show (AFBS). With over 10,000 attendees and buyers in search of the latest food trends, this event provided an ideal platform for Taiwanese companies to showcase their products.

One of the highlights of the show was Taiwanese Chef Sophia Chin's demonstration of her mouth-watering Sun Chi Pitaya Circular Noodles. This culinary masterpiece caught the attention of many food suppliers who were on the lookout for new trends and flavors. Chin's presentation was just one example of how Taiwanese cuisine is gaining recognition in international markets.

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Another popular product at the show was bubble tea, a milky and fruity drink filled with chewy tapioca balls. According to IMARC Group, a market research firm, the US bubble tea market was worth $2.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $4.6 billion by 2032. This drink has become a favorite among 18-29 year olds and has expanded beyond Taiwan into a global phenomenon.

Attendees at AFBS were impressed with not only the taste but also the health benefits of bubble tea. Ying Xuan Zhuang International Co., Ltd., presented new bubble tea kits with less sugar, catering to those with dietary restrictions. CEO Sophia Chin emphasized that these healthier options will expand bubble tea's appeal to a wider audience.

Jack Wu, General Manager of Dr. Dairy Co., Ltd., another participant in the trade mission, demonstrated how quickly instant bubble tea can be made and sold for $3 to $7 per cup in restaurants. With the growing trend of 77% of Americans dining at ethnic restaurants at least once a month, other Taiwanese companies hope to see their products, such as savory hand-made organic rainbow noodles, become staples in US and Canadian grocery stores and restaurants.

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Attendees also had the opportunity to taste more traditional Taiwanese cuisine, including mushroom soup with sesame oil, almond pastries, and teas prepared by a private chef from other Taiwan trade members. These included Albert Wang, General Manager of Jenlau Industrial Co., Ltd. (spices, pastes); Janet Yu, Assistant Manager of King Kung Health Food Co., Ltd. (almond drink); Ryan Yu, Director of Operations at Pei Chen Corporation (bubble tea, high tea); and Spencer Lee, Deputy General Manager of Sunsui Rice Co., Ltd. (sushi rice).

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the US is the top exporter of Taiwan's agricultural and related products with a total value of $935 million. With more trade missions planned in the future, Taiwan aims to further increase this number. For those interested in ordering Taiwanese products, TAITRA can be contacted through their website https://taiwanfoods.taiwantrade.com.

In conclusion, the "Taiwan Select" initiative has proven to be a successful platform for Taiwanese food companies to expand their reach into international markets. With their unique flavors and innovative products gaining recognition among consumers worldwide, it is clear that Taiwanese cuisine is here to stay.

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