On August 29, the “TAIWAN SELECT Carnival” event, jointly organized by the Taiwan Bureau of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council, took place at H MART in San Francisco. Participating units included the Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s San Francisco Office, the South Bay Overseas Chinese Education Center, and the San Francisco Bay Area Mom’s Classroom.
During his speech, Acting Director Zhu Yongchang of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco expressed, “We are recommending Taiwan’s products to everyone in a collective manner, which is also a process of internationalization. Taiwan’s products are of high quality, innovative, and meet hygiene and safety standards, making them well-loved.”
Acting Director Zhu introduced that this year’s carnival has incorporated more elements from Taiwan, including traditional craftsmanship such as dough figurines and sugar art, demonstrated by artisans on-site for consumers to experience Taiwan’s traditional culture. The event will run from August 15 to mid-November, spanning three months. Following the success of last year’s inaugural carnival, this year’s event has expanded, with over forty exhibitors showcasing a variety of seafood, agricultural products, and specialty foods.
He emphasized the desire for consumers to integrate family interactions and cultural experiences into their household purchases, making food promotion not just a marketing strategy but a lifestyle enjoyment, showcasing Taiwan’s soft power.
Acting Director Zhu also introduced the “OIA Card”, an exclusive card for Taiwanese compatriots that offers discounts. Participating businesses in the event will provide discounts and rewards, such as participating in a draw to win prizes upon reaching a certain amount of cumulative spending, with the chance to win round-trip tickets to Taiwan.
As for applying for the “OIA Card,” Acting Director Zhu mentioned that compatriots can apply through the South Bay, North Bay Overseas Chinese Education Centers, or partner businesses such as China Airlines, EVA Air, H MART, and Cheng Chun-Chen Beef Noodles.
At Combo Market: From August 15 to November 15 (Fridays and Saturdays), dining at partner restaurants can be exchanged for a $20 gift card.
At H MART: From August 29 to September 7, there will be folk performances, Taiwanese food tastings, dough figurine and sugar art demonstrations, paper cutting, and tourist information available on-site. Customers will receive a special gift upon purchase and can participate in a raffle.
At Marina Food Cupertino Store: From October 10 to November 7, they will host a “Taiwanese Food Weekend Tasting.” ◇