Tse-Xin Foundation implements the National Development Council’s "Six-Star Value-Added Plan for Promoting Organic Agriculture," extending its reach into four promising tribal communities in the Hualien and Taitung regions – Chi Mei, Fengnan, Dian Guang, and Daru Mark. The initiative supports the transition from primary agriculture to secondary and tertiary industries, integrating organic farming techniques, production and marketing profits, and local resources within these communities. Additionally, it strengthens talent development and fosters diverse collaborations.

Su Mu-Rong, Executive Director of Tse-Xin Foundation  

Over the past three years, through guidance, support, and cross-industry collaboration, the six-level industrial development in tribal communities has begun to take shape, gradually evolving in new directions. In May 2018, a media tour was held in the Chi Mei Tribal Community in Hualien to showcase the results of the project. Various processed agricultural goods and cultural and creative products were displayed, and community learning experiences were shared. The tour also included a visit to a rice processing factory to explore the key aspects of secondary processing and tertiary marketing channels, providing a comprehensive understanding of the six-level industrial development model in the Hualien-Taitung region.

As guests entered the venue, the Daru Mark Tribal Community presented specially crafted flower crowns as a gesture of gratitude for the support and assistance from all friends. Pan Wang-Wenbin, the head of the Grain Production and Sales Group of Miscellaneous Grains, mentioned that the project has brought many positive changes to the community. The introduction of eco-friendly farming through the Green Conservation initiative has transformed the relationship between farmers and wildlife, shifting it from hostility to friendship, and restoring the indigenous tradition of respecting all life. Respected Chi Mei Tribal elder, Jiang Ma (Jiang Jin-Ying), expressed gratitude to the Hualien District Agricultural Research and Extension Station, the Agriculture and Food Agency, and the Tse-Xin Foundation for introducing organic farming techniques and concepts, which have helped protect both residents’ health and the ecological environment. She hopes that the project will continue for many years to come.

Pan Wang Wen-Bin, the Head of the Production and Sales Group of Miscellaneous Grains, Daru Mark Tribe Jiang Ma (Jiang Jin-Ying), Respected Elder of Chi Mei Tribe

In terms of primary production, there has been a significant increase in farmers adopting organic and eco-friendly farming practices over the past few years, protecting the residents, farmland, land, and surrounding wildlife. The development of secondary processed products, through diversified marketing and integrating the tribal cultural features into tours, has helped build brand identity and revitalized the community's energy. However, challenges remain, such as disruptions in the production structure, lack of production equipment and storage space, and high costs compared to imported raw materials. Continued efforts from the government, businesses, and the community are needed, with the hope of encouraging more youth to return to their hometowns and bring new hope to the tribe.