Taipei: The 2025 Taiwan Culinary Exhibition, scheduled for early August, will spotlight Taiwan's culinary heritage with a focus on seafood, the Taiwan Visitors Association (TVA) announced. The event will take place at the Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1 from August 1-4, inviting attendees to explore over 100 food booths and live cooking demonstrations that emphasize locally sourced ingredients.

According to Focus Taiwan, the TVA has organized this annual event to showcase Taiwan's diverse culinary culture to international audiences. This year's theme zeroes in on seafood, reflecting Taiwan's status as an island nation with a rich variety of fish species. Yeh Chu-lan, TVA Honorary Chairperson, highlighted the significance of seafood, noting that Taiwan's surrounding waters are home to over 10 percent of the world's fish species, which naturally influences the country's culinary practices.

Despite the theme's celebration, Yeh acknowledged that torrential rain and a recent typhoon might affect participation. Several businesses from southern Taiwan, including a confectionery manufacturer in Tainan, might face challenges in attending due to weather-related damages. The manufacturer reportedly suffered damages exceeding NT$10 million (US$336,413), but the company's CEO, Wu I-lung, expressed his determination to participate and showcase his products.

The exhibition will also feature international dishes from Malaysia and Indonesia, but will not include a designated Halal food area for the second year in a row. TVA Deputy Secretary-General Kevin Chen explained that while the Tourism Administration requested a Halal sector in 2023, no such request was made for the 2024 and 2025 editions.

The TVA anticipates a higher turnout this year, with admission priced at NT$200. The event aims to draw more visitors by offering a wide array of culinary experiences.