Recent Publications

Taiwan Economic Research Monthly Major Trends in the Pet Economy and Industry Development ‧ Pets have evolved from household guardians to cherished family members. Despite economic challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the pet industry maintained 5% growth. In 2023, Taiwan’s pet dog and cat population reached 2.79 million, with continued growth expected. Responding to increased focus on pet health and growing pet food demand, the Ministry of Agriculture proposed the "Pet Food Management Act" in 2024. This legislation will regulate pet food production, sale, import, and export, making our country the third globally to enact specialized pet food laws. It aims to establish a safety framework, reduce health risks, and protect consumer rights. Drawing from developed nations' experiences, meeting the five freedoms of animal welfare while ensuring sustainable industry growth is crucial. This month's featured articles analyze current pet ownership trends, consumption patterns, and market demands, focusing on the pet food sector. It explores international practices, including policies and management strategies. Additionally, we analyze veterinary hospital management challenges, referencing case studies from Japan, the U.S., and other countries to provide insights into diverse operational models for pet hospitals.