Building a stronger packaging sector in Taiwan

WHEN the discussion is about packaging made in Taiwan, it can center on the precision of the manufacturing base, from engineering accuracy to export competitiveness, all of which underscore the credibility of this sector. Compared to low-cost, high-volume production found elsewhere in Asia, Taiwan’s packaging tends to be costly, but manufacturers also deliver on critical features such as high quality, precision and IP protection.

Since 1965, the Taiwan Packaging Association (TPA) has been the foundation of the island’s packaging industry. As a non‑profit trade body, it has consistently promoted the advancement of packaging technology, the growth of local manufacturers, and fostering of international ties.

Over the decades, the association has grown to become a central hub, organizing flagship trade shows such as TAIPEI PACK, and running educational and networking programs to ensure continued knowledge sharing. Amid shifting consumer demands, the TPA positions itself as a leader in sustainability, smart manufacturing, and global exchange.

In 2023, Mr. Biao Kuo, the founder and CEO of Jaw Feng Machinery Co., Ltd, became the chairman of the TPA. Under his leadership, the association has advanced key initiatives in sustainability, smart manufacturing, and international collaboration, ensuring that Taiwan’s packaging sector remains competitive, forward‑looking, and in step with global trends and developments.

According to Mr. Kuo, a core strength of Taiwan’s packaging industry lies in its composition: most local companies are small to medium-size enterprises. He explained that this structure actually provides better manufacturing flexibility and agility compared to large companies such as those in Europe and the United States.

Mr. Biao Kuo, founder and CEO of Jaw Feng Machinery Co., Ltd is the current chairman of the Taiwan Packaging Association

However, smaller scale also presents its challenges especially when it comes to innovation, he said. Smaller R&D departments often face resource constraints in terms of expertise. As a result, innovation cycles can take longer than those of global giants.

“Because our companies are relatively small, many research and development departments are not robust enough, mainly due to limited staffing and resources. As a result, they develop new products longer compared to global, large‑scale companies,” Mr. Kuo said. “This is one of our key challenges. And since information and technology now move at unprecedented speed, we need to keep pace, and that is a major reason for strengthening our industry.”

While size is both the industry’s asset and its constraint, labor dynamics also shapes its course. At the managerial and higher levels, Taiwan continues to have sufficient talent. However, shortages are evident among middle‑level staff and operators, creating pressure on production capacity, according to Mr. Kuo.

“This is one of the reasons why Taiwan’s packaging industry has begun adopting advanced technologies – particularly AI – to mitigate the challenges posed by labor shortages,” he said. Turning to more advanced technologies does ensure long‑term transformation in packaging processes, although it also comes with a cost.

Strong ties across the world

Recognizing these setbacks, TPA’s leadership has been forming a global network to expand ties with packaging associations in Asia, aside from with manufacturers across Taiwan.

The goal is to create a unified group where information is shared openly, enabling the industry to act as a cohesive team and compete more effectively with suppliers from other countries. This collaborative spirit is central to Taiwan’s packaging identity, according to Mr. Kuo.

“At present, we have what we call the APAC – Asian Packaging Associations’ Club. This institution brings together packaging associations from Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. Through this collaboration, we operate as a unified group, sharing information specific to the packaging industry,” Mr. Kuo said.

The chairman’s focus has been on strengthening Taiwan’s packaging industry by building connections with associations in these countries and by promoting Taiwanese machinery across Asian markets.

In the near future, the TPA aims to expand participation beyond Asia. They are exploring opportunities to invite packaging associations from the Pacific region—such as Australia and New Zealand—to join the group, creating broader exchange and cooperation across the industry.

An agenda aligned with market needs

TPA is also charting an agenda that puts sustainability its priority, with initiatives focused on eco‑friendly packaging, circular design, and compliance with international regulations such as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.

Taiwan’s recycling system overhauled and renamed Resource Recycling Act into the Resource Circulation Promotion Act in June 2026 supports a full circular economy approach. It compels packaging suppliers and manufacturers to follow the green design mandate, reduce material use, and comply with eco‑design and disclosure rules.

Smart manufacturing is another pillar, as the association promotes AI‑driven solutions and digital transformation among member companies. Global collaboration remains essential, with efforts underway to expand partnerships beyond Asia to include associations in the Pacific region, such as Australia and New Zealand. Finally, education and talent development are being strengthened to prepare the next generation of packaging professionals, ensuring Taiwan’s industry remains competitive and resilient.

Through these initiatives, the TPA continues to evolve as a driver of innovation, positioning Taiwan’s packaging industry to thrive in a fast‑changing global landscape.

- This interview was conducted at the 2026 Food Taipei Mega Shows held from June 24-27.

Profile: JawFeng Machinery Co., Ltd

Jaw Feng Machinery Co. Ltd. is recognized as a leading SME in Taiwan’s packaging machinery sector. Founded in 1983 in Chiayi County, the company specializes in vacuum packaging machines, tumblers, ozone sterilizing systems, and related equipment for the food, medical, and pharmaceutical industries.

The company supplies equipment to markets worldwide under the New Diamond VAC® brand. Its vacuum packaging machines are available in single‑chamber, deep‑chamber, heavy‑duty double‑chamber, continuous belt, and inline belt models, while its thermoforming packaging machines are fully automated systems that integrate bag forming, filling, and sealing.

JawFeng also offers tray sealers with vacuum and gas flushing to extend the shelf life of fresh foods, vacuum massage tumblers that enhance tenderness and water retention in meat and seafood processing, and ozone sterilizing equipment for water treatment and hygienic applications.

The family-owned and privately-held company was founded by CEO, Mr. Biao Kuo, who is currently the chairman of the Taiwan Packaging Association.

Watch a video  with Mary Kuo, head of Jaw Feng Overseas Division, at TAIPEI Pack 2026.