July 8, 2025 – Yunlin, Taiwan — Typhoon Danas has left a trail of destruction across central and southern Taiwan, with Yunlin County among the hardest-hit agricultural areas. As of noon today, total agricultural losses in Yunlin have surpassed NT$270 million, according to local government data.
The aftermath of the typhoon has also caused a sharp increase in vegetable prices, driven by damaged crops, unstable weather, and limited supply. At the Xiluo Fruit and Vegetable Market, average vegetable prices jumped significantly, reflecting the strain on production and distribution.
Prices Spike at Xiluo Market
The Xiluo Fruit and Vegetable Market, one of the largest in the region, recorded more than 800 metric tons of produce today. The average transaction price soared to NT$36 per kilogram, up from NT$26 just before the typhoon.
According to market chairman Cai Defu, the biggest increases were seen in leafy vegetables. Chinese cabbage and oyster cabbage, which were previously selling for just over NT$20 per kilogram, now exceed NT$30 per kilogram. Cabbage prices remained relatively stable, averaging NT$26.6 per kilogram, largely due to a temporary surge in supply from mountain regions before the storm intensified.
However, Cai noted that prices are expected to climb again as harvesting becomes more difficult due to the lingering effects of the storm and ongoing unstable weather conditions.
Harvesting and Recovery Hampered by Unstable Weather
Cai emphasized that continued poor weather has made it difficult for farmers to resume harvesting or begin replanting. “The central and southern regions have suffered serious losses. If the weather remains unpredictable, it will prolong recovery efforts and push prices even higher,” he explained.
Breakdown of Agricultural Losses in Yunlin
Wei Shengde, Director of the Agriculture Department of the Yunlin County Government, reported that the county has experienced damage across 4,128 hectares of farmland, resulting in a total loss of over NT$270 million. The hardest-hit crops include:
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Edible Corn: Nearly 800 hectares damaged, losses estimated at NT$35 million
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Bamboo Shoots: 995 hectares affected by leaf damage and lodging, losses totaling NT$60 million
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Oranges: 252 hectares damaged, losses of NT$32 million
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Bananas: 223 hectares damaged, losses of NT$31 million
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Mandarin Oranges: 200 hectares damaged, losses of NT$26 million
The full impact on the agricultural supply chain is still being assessed, but authorities and farmers alike are bracing for continued disruptions in the coming weeks.
Outlook
With recovery efforts hampered by adverse weather, agricultural markets may remain volatile for the foreseeable future. Officials urge consumers to be understanding of potential price increases, and for farmers to continue documenting losses for disaster relief applications.
