🐟 Taiwan Ramps Up Inspections After Tainted Yellow Croaker From China Tests Positive for Banned Drug
Taipei, June 3, 2025 — Taiwan’s Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) has launched an urgent recall operation after a 1,000-kilogram shipment of small yellow croaker imported from China tested positive for enrofloxacin, a banned veterinary drug in aquatic imports. According to the agency, about 40% of the shipment has been successfully recalled, while the remaining portion may have already reached consumers.
The fish, distributed nationwide through retail outlets, was imported by A-Quan Frozen Aquatic Products Co., a Tainan-based company that has now been fined NT$240,000 (approx. US$8,000) for repeated violations of Taiwan’s food safety laws.
🚨 What Is Enrofloxacin and Why Is It Banned in Aquatic Products?
Enrofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat infections in livestock such as cattle, pigs, and poultry. While it is approved for these animals, its use in aquaculture is strictly prohibited in Taiwan. That’s because residues of enrofloxacin in fish can pose significant public health risks, including:
- Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting)
- Antibiotic resistance in humans
- Potential kidney toxicity with prolonged exposure
TFDA Central Center for Regional Administration Director Chen Tzu-ling explained that the drug’s presence in aquatic products is both a regulatory and health concern. Improper use of veterinary drugs in aquaculture reflects both a gap in cross-border regulatory enforcement and a failure in self-regulation by importers.
⚠️ Second Offense by the Same Importer
This is not an isolated case. In the summer of 2024, A-Quan Frozen Aquatic Products Co. was also found to have imported frozen large yellow croaker from China that tested positive for the same banned substance.
Due to this being the second violation in under a year, the TFDA escalated its response:
- Base fine increased from NT$120,000 to NT$240,000
- Cited failure to conduct mandatory self-inspections
- Considered non-compliance under the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation
🛂 Taiwan Strengthens Border Controls
As a result of this case, the TFDA has dramatically increased inspection rates for small yellow croaker imported from China. The inspection rate will now range between 20% and 50%, compared to the usual 2–10% for routine shipments. This policy shift is designed to deter repeat violations and protect consumer safety.
TFDA officials confirmed that the positive drug result was the only failure among 453 samples tested during March and April, which included poultry, livestock, and aquatic products.
🧠 Broader Implications for Cross-Strait Food Safety
Taiwan’s strained relationship with China complicates food safety cooperation. While Taiwan continues to import select food products from China due to pricing and demand, food safety remains a highly sensitive issue:
- Lack of direct oversight over Chinese production facilities
- Different agricultural and drug use standards
- Political reluctance to expand regulatory cooperation
This case renews calls for stricter penalties, better supply chain transparency, and consumer education on how to identify safe seafood.
❓ FAQs
What is enrofloxacin, and why is it banned in fish?
It is a synthetic antibacterial drug approved for livestock but banned in aquatic imports due to health risks such as kidney damage and antibiotic resistance.
How much of the contaminated fish has been recalled?
Approximately 40% of the 1,000-kilogram shipment has been recovered. The rest may have been sold to consumers.
Has this company violated food safety rules before?
Yes. In 2024, the same company imported large yellow croaker from China also tainted with enrofloxacin.
What action has the TFDA taken?
The company has been fined NT$240,000. Inspection rates for similar imports have been increased to 20–50%.
Can I check if I purchased the contaminated fish?
Consumers are advised to contact local health authorities or the store of purchase. The TFDA is coordinating with retailers for product identification.
