© Kim Kyung-Hoon/ReutersDogs and cats on sale at a meat market in Asia.
People who sell, purchase or eat meat from culled canines and felines will now face hefty fines and potentially even a prison sentence.
Landmark amendments to animal protection laws, which has been approved by the Legislative Yuan - the lawmaking branch of the Taiwanese government - will see those found guilty being named and shamed and facing fines of up to 250,000 Taiwan new dollars (£6,500).
Those charged with intentionally harming or torturing animals could meanwhile be jailed for up to two years and fined two million Taiwan new dollars (£52,000) while tougher sanctions will apply for repeat offenders.
According to the China Post, some localities in Taiwan have already taken measures banning dog and cat meat consumption but there was no national legislation against the practice.
The series of amendments raises a hosts of issues around animal welfare and reveals changing attitudes in Taiwan, where dogs are now widely seen as pets.
Comment: A report from WJLA states:
Update: RT reports one of the three military personnel who were in the downed helicopter, has died. The other two have been flown to an area trauma center for treatment.