The Paphiopedilum orchid, whose name derives from the Greek words Paphia (Venus) and pedilon (sandal), is commonly known as the Lady’s Slipper Orchid for its distinctive slipper-shaped labellum. Renowned for its graceful form and vibrant colors, the orchid has long captivated enthusiasts worldwide. Yet, excessive collection from the wild has caused severe population declines, leading to its inclusion in the appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to prevent illegal trade and safeguard the species from extinction.

In alignment with international conservation initiatives and to promote sustainable industry development, the Taiwan Seed Improvement and Propagation Station (TSIPS) has served since 1999 as the designated certification body for the Paphiopedilum Artificial Propagation Facility Registration System, authorized by the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan (now the Ministry of Agriculture). Through close cooperation with both industry and research institutions, TSIPS has successfully advanced the export of artificially propagated seedlings and cut flowers while upholding the dual principles of conservation and utilization. These ongoing efforts reflect Taiwan’s firm commitment to fulfilling its CITES obligations and protecting endangered plant species.

According to TSIPS, as of 2024, Paphiopedilum cultivation in Taiwan is primarily concentrated in the central and southern regions. The nation’s exported seedlings are mainly shipped to the United States, Thailand, and Canada, totaling approximately 44,000 plants annually. Cut flowers are also a key export, with around 17,000 stems sent abroad each year, predominantly to the U.S. market.

Currently, 17 artificial propagation facilities are officially registered nationwide, all of which have submitted export applications. In 2024 alone, 441 export applications were approved, with an estimated total export value of NT$16 million, a 5% increase over 2023. These figures highlight Taiwan’s ability to achieve a balance between adhering to CITES regulations and maintaining a vibrant horticultural export industry.

TSIPS explained that growers seeking to export Paphiopedilum seedlings or cut flowers must first obtain a Certificate of Artificial Propagation Facility issued by the Ministry of Agriculture(MOA) before applying for export approval. Traders not directly engaged in cultivation may also participate in export activities by purchasing from certified facilities, which can apply on their behalf for the necessary certification. Once the Certificate of Artificial Propagation is issued, the exporter can apply for a CITES Export Permit through the International Trade Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs(TITA), enabling lawful export of seedlings, flowering plants, or cut flowers.

The certification fee for each artificial propagation facility is NT$10,000, valid for five years, while each export certificate costs NT$300. TSIPS reminds growers and exporters that they are welcome to contact the Station directly for guidance or assistance to ensure smooth application processes and full compliance with regulatory requirements. In the future, TSIPS will continue to strengthen collaboration with the industry and research institutions to enhance the international competitiveness of domestic growers. At the same time, it will uphold the goal of balancing conservation and industrial development, aiming to safeguard biodiversity while enabling Taiwan’s Paphiopedilum industry to shine even more brightly on the global stage.

▲Fig1. Paphiopedilum orchids are highly admired for their distinctive slipper-shaped lip.

▲Fig2. The Station conducts annual inspections to ensure lawful cultivation and export.

▲Fig3. Taiwan’s Paphiopedilum Export Management Process