November 2, 2025 | Taichung, Taiwan
The ongoing African swine fever (ASF) outbreak has forced many snack shops across Taiwan to temporarily shut down or switch ingredients, leading to soaring demand for chicken and a noticeable spike in poultry prices.
At the popular Jianxing Road breakfast shop in Taichung—famous for its meat and egg toast—customers were surprised to learn that pork has been replaced by chicken following the government’s temporary ban on pork slaughter.
“This is the first time I’ve tried the chicken version,” one customer said. “I heard it’s even better, so I came to buy it.”
While many customers were curious to try the new menu, others admitted that pork still offers a richer flavor compared to chicken, which some said has a stronger odor.
In traditional markets, the impact is evident. With pork unavailable, demand for chicken and seafood has surged. A whole hen now costs between NT$380 and NT$400, while chicken leg prices have jumped from NT$120 to NT$140 per pound within a week. Prices of chicken tenderloin and breast have also increased by NT$10 per pound.
“Business is booming,” said one poultry vendor. “But chicken prices go up every day—live chickens that used to cost NT$60 are now NT$65. It’s getting harder to keep up.”
Some restaurant owners have been forced to adjust. In Chiayi, turkey rice shops have already raised their prices, while others have temporarily suspended operations. The well-known Taipei-based A-Yu Dumplings announced a closure until November 9, and Yuehua Oil Rice in Xinzhuang will only sell limited portions daily.
Authorities have yet to lift the pork slaughter ban, as investigations and containment measures continue. The Central African Swine Fever Epidemic Investigation and Response Center issued a statement on November 3 emphasizing the importance of biosecurity and cooperation to prevent further spread.
If restrictions persist, experts warn that the ripple effects of the outbreak could continue to strain the local food industry and household budgets in the coming weeks.