TAIPEI, TAIWAN — Significant activity in the Taiwanese pet food market may be ripe for opportunities for US pet food processors, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS). The country’s pet market was valued at $19.3 billion in 2024, and though this represents a mere fraction compared to the US pet market, significant pet ownership growth makes Taiwan a market that cannot be ignored.

According to the Taiwan Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), there were 1.48 million dogs and 1.31 million cats in the country in 2023, representing pet ownership increases of 19% and 50%, respectively, from 2021. This explosion in pet ownership has been led by a shift in societal attitudes toward pets throughout the country, with more Taiwanese treating these animals as family members. With this in mind, the Taiwan MOA elevated its Pet Management Division to now operate under its Department of Animal Welfare, regulating and overseeing the management of pet food products, as well as their production, labeling and distribution. 

In 2024, global pet food imports to Taiwan hit a new record, reaching $276.8 million. Thailand and the United States are currently the country’s largest exporters. Thailand exported $100 million worth of dog and cat foods in 2024, representing 37.2% of market share, followed by the United States at $35.34 million. Other top suppliers include South Korea, Canada and Japan. 

Due to its proximity to Taiwan, Thailand has become pet food king in the country, leveraging its manufacturing capabilities and strategic trade relations. Thai pet foods are known in Taiwan for their diverse range and competitive pricing. Additionally, Thai equipment manufacturers have become the preferred OEM (original equipment manufacturer) for many international pet food brands in Taiwan, including various US companies. 

US pet food products are highly regarded in Taiwan due to stringent food safety standards and premium ingredients, which, according to the FAS, resonate well with Taiwanese pet owners who prioritize pet health and wellness. For this reason, US pet foods have developed a strong presence in the country by following several product trends. However, animal diseases, particularly Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), have created delays in export approval for US producers. 

Pet ownership trends

According to the FAS, pet ownership in Taiwan skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many people seeking out companionship during isolation, which also increased demand for pet products and services. Additionally, there has been a rise in single and elderly populations in the country, with many people in these groups adopting pets to improve their mental health and overall quality of life. This shifting demographic has resulted in a stable and expanding market for the pet industry. 

Taiwan’s pet ownership is currently dog-dominated, accounting for 53% of pet ownership, whereas cats account for 47%. However, cat ownership is growing at a much higher rate. From 2021 to 2023, cat ownership rose 50%, and the FAS attributes this to a rise in urban living. Taiwan has a high population density, increasing the prevalence of apartment living, which felines are more suited for compared to canines. 

Taiwanese cat owners are more likely to spend more money on their pets compared to dog owners, demonstrating a commitment to enhance cat health and wellness. In fact, some pet food importers reported that their sales of cat and dog foods are evenly split, with many Taiwanese cat lovers buying food to feed stray cats. 

Nutritional opportunities

Though the FAS expects US pet food producers to see tightening competition in the Taiwanese market from Thailand, US products are viewed as high quality. In fact, the United States was the largest supplier of premium dry pet food to Taiwan in 2024, beating out Thailand. Taiwan’s pet food market share is 56% dog food and 44% cat food. Dog food is primarily sold in dry formats, while cat food is mainly available in dry and canned formats. 

Specialty pet food products have gained popularity in Taiwan, specifically formulas for aging pets and those with specific nutritional and dietary needs, like food allergies. Additionally, pet food as preventive care has also become popular, like anti-diarrhea and anti-constipation. According to the Agricultural Trade Officer (ATO) of Taipei, pet foods with special diet control attributes account for more than 25% of shelf space in pet stores and online.

Pet parents purchasing these more premium products tend to be higher educated and have more disposable income. This demographic is also internet savvy and spends time researching product health claims. 

With an explosion in cat ownership, the cat food space represents a large opportunity for US pet food producers. Many of these owners are living in big cities and have higher disposable income, leading to high growth in cat treats. Additionally, smaller dogs are gaining popularity among Taiwanese pet owners. This offers an opportunity for smaller-sized packaging as consumers have sought out smaller packaging sizes for perceived freshness. In fact, pet owners are reportedly more willing to purchase a premium product if it comes in a smaller-sized packaging. 

Currently, pet treats and wet formats are among the fastest-growing pet food segments in pet retail stores throughout Taiwan, with many importers claiming that the Taiwanese pet food market’s growth has been led by treats and pouched products. 

Environmental concerns have given way to increased interest in eco-friendliness among Taiwanese consumers. For pet food companies specifically, using sustainable ingredients, reducing packaging waste and promoting packaging recycling helps enhance a company’s reputation and attracts a growing segment of Taiwanese consumers.

Learn more about the Taiwanese pet food market. 

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