[Free Trial Available!] “AI Bear Detection by Drone” Compatible with DJI Matrice400/Matrice4 Series/Dock3
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
NSi Moka Inc. has developed an “automatic bear detection by drone” feature compatible with DJI's latest drone series. It is offering a 3-month free trial to help prevent bear-related damage through real-time aerial monitoring.
Funai Research Institute Supply Chain Consulting Holds FY 2026 Entrance Ceremony, Welcoming 18 New Employees
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Funai Research Institute Supply Chain Consulting held an entrance ceremony at its Tokyo headquarters on April 1, 2026, welcoming 18 new employees. President Naoyuki Hashimoto delivered congratulatory remarks, and the new employees expressed their determination to become professionals. This was the company's first entrance ceremony and an important step toward contributing to the development of the logistics industry.
New “阪神タイガース Clubhouse Hayashi Rice” Debuts! “Koshien Fried Chicken” Also Gets a Tastier Revamp! Both Go on Sale for the Opening Day of the 2026 Professional Baseball Season at Hanshin Koshien Stadium on Tuesday, April 7
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hanshin Koshien Stadium will begin selling “阪神タイガース Clubhouse Hayashi Rice” on April 7, 2026, the opening day of the professional baseball season, and will revamp its signature “Koshien Fried Chicken.”
Life Egg Proposes Differentiating Promotional Campaigns with Eco-Friendly Giveaways; Exhibiting at Premium Incentive Show Spring 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ライフエッグ will exhibit at the 73rd International Premium Incentive Show Spring 2026, proposing ways for companies to distinguish their promotional activities with eco-friendly giveaways made from Japanese wood. The company also develops original products through OEM production and will highlight its contribution to the SDGs.
GUILD Inc., Operator of AI Business Lab, Launches Recruitment Agency Business Specializing in FDE Consultants
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
While operating AI Business Lab, GUILD Inc. has launched a recruitment agency business specializing in FDE (Forward Deployed Engineer) consultants. FDEs are highly specialized professionals who solve technical challenges at customer sites, and demand for them is growing rapidly. The service aims to optimally match these scarce professionals with companies. To mark the launch, an online event titled “What Is an FDE Consultant?” will also be held on April 21, 2026.
Area Management App Horai Selected for the Second Consecutive Year for “Infroneer B.Hope Assist Action on BI League,” a Participatory Co-Creation Initiative to Strengthen Local Disaster Preparedness with Infroneer's Participation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
scheme verge's Horai app has been selected for the second consecutive year for “B.Hope Assist Action on BI League,” a disaster-preparedness co-creation initiative hosted by Infroneer. It will serve as a platform for participants to share disaster-preparedness information while walking around their communities.
New Feature Released for Kanamic AI SaaS! “AI Home-Visit Care Monitoring Report Creation Support” Feature to Dramatically Reduce Work Hours
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kanamic Network has released an “AI Home-Visit Care Monitoring Report Creation Support” feature for home-visit care. The AI assists service coordinators with paperwork, helping reduce the workload in the field and improve quality.
[Seeking Participants] STATION Ai Joins YOUTRUST's “I Started Using YOUTRUST” Initiative and Will Hold an Experiential Program on June 24
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
STATION Ai is partnering with YOUTRUST's “I Started Using YOUTRUST” initiative to hold an on-site experiential program on June 24 for people interested in starting a business or launching a new venture.
Ureru Net Advertising Group (9235) Signs Results-Driven Referral Partnership with Fujimana, Japan's No. 1 Crypto YouTuber by Channel Subscribers!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A subsidiary of Ureru Net Advertising Group has partnered with cryptocurrency YouTuber Fujimana. The partnership will strengthen referrals for cryptocurrency recovery services.
Holding POP UP Events for the <Campus> Brand Across Asian Countries Copy
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kokuyo Co., Ltd. will hold POP UP events in locations across Asia, including Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Hong Kong, to raise awareness of the <Campus> brand in global markets.
Performance on April 18 (Saturday)! “The Capital Beneath the Waves,” Performed for the 6th Time in 3 Years at Akama Shrine in Shimonoseki, a Sacred Site of The Tale of the Heike; Reservations Pour In from Across Japan for the Biwa and Storytelling Session
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The narrative performance “The Capital Beneath the Waves,” which carries on The Tale of the Heike through biwa music, will be held at Akama Shrine in Shimonoseki on April 18, 2026. Reservations are pouring in from across Japan, demonstrating the strong drawing power of a performance at this historic venue.
Holding POP UP Events for the <Campus> Brand Across Asian Countries
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kokuyo Co., Ltd. will hold a series of pop-up events in Asian markets, including Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and Hong Kong, to support the global expansion of its Campus brand.
4 products, including authentic soup vermicelli from Haidilao, one of the world's largest hot pot chains, and the increasingly popular mala tang, arrive at Seven-Eleven!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd. will begin rolling out 4 products in its authentic soup vermicelli series from hot pot brand Haidilao, which operates more than 1,700 stores across 16 countries and regions worldwide, at Seven-Eleven stores nationwide from April 14 (Tuesday). The particularly anticipated mala tang offers a satisfying bowl with an intense, numbing heat and generous ingredients, making it easy to enjoy authentic Chinese flavors. The products come in 2 price options: 250 yen (270 yen including tax) and 135 yen (145.80 yen including tax).
A new “drinkable supplement” series from the Locomore and Sesamin brands: 2 products, Locomore WATER and Sesamin 1000, launch together, offering a convenient and delicious new way for people aged 40 and over to get nutrients as part of their health routines
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Suntory Beverage & Food will launch Locomore WATER and Sesamin 1000, drinks that offer a convenient way to get nutrients, on April 14 under its flagship Locomore and Sesamin supplement brands.
New Value Creation Project Policy: Expanding the portfolio by driving new value creation in Japan and overseas, with “Wellness Care” and “Mood Shift” as value pillars
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Suntory Beverage & Food has launched a new value creation project centered on “Wellness Care” and “Mood Shift.” It will roll out new products in Japan and Thailand for the RTD beverage market.
Broadcast of a live recording of a popular classical music program! FM AICHI: “Daido Oha-Kura Saturday with セントラル愛知交響楽団 SPECIAL CONCERT Vol.11”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FM AICHI will broadcast a recording of the special live event for its classical music program, “Daido Oha-Kura Saturday with セントラル愛知交響楽団 SPECIAL CONCERT Vol.11,” on April 12.
Launch of “AI DisasterRecovery on IDX,” a platform to transform disaster recovery and national resilience, aligned with the Japanese government's 17 priority fields!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AI Data Co., Ltd. has begun offering AI DisasterRecovery on IDX, a generative AI platform specializing in disaster recovery and land management. It aims to transform initial response when disasters occur and accelerate recovery.
The beverage brand Youji no Nomimono's first collaboration with PAW Patrol: “Cheering you on as you grow every day” campaign launches on April 13 (Monday)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To mark the 40th anniversary of its launch, Ezaki Glico's Youji no Nomimono will begin its first collaboration campaign with the popular animated series PAW Patrol on April 13.
The Japan Frescoball Association (JFBA) announced that the JBG®F Chiba 2026 RYOGEISYA Frescoball Championship-EAST- will be held at Inage Beach in Chiba City on June 13-14.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Japan Frescoball Association will hold the JBG®F Chiba 2026 RYOGEISYA Frescoball Championship-EAST- at Inage Beach in Chiba City on June 13-14, 2026.
DXYZ of the Migalo Group publishes an interview on the introduction of FreeiD at Daiwa House Industry's D-residence Higashi-Yosumicho
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
DXYZ has published a case study on the introduction of FreeiD, a facial recognition ID platform, at Daiwa House Industry's rental housing property D-residence Higashi-Yosumicho. The case highlights the spread of a new lifestyle—“Live with just your face”—and the usefulness of a versatile facial recognition system.
Online mahjong tournament “Japan Mahjong Champions Cup” opens, with 10 million yen worth of pure gold as prizes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Japan Mahjong Champions Cup, offering pure gold worth a total of 10 million yen in prizes, opens April 7 on Maru-Jan, the online mahjong platform operated by Signaltalk. Participation is completely free and open to everyone.
三和グループ (holding company: 三和ホールディングス株式会社) will mark its 70th anniversary on April 10. To commemorate the occasion, it has launched a special website and unveiled an anniversary video and commemorative logo.
One-man show by FULLCAST RAISERZ, the powerhouse dance crew from pro dance league D.LEAGUE, confirmed for 2026! Earliest fan club presale begins on Ticketpla!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社チケットプラス has opened the earliest fan club presale for the one-man show by D.LEAGUE dance team FULLCAST RAISERZ, scheduled for August 24, 2026.
Gerald Charles unveils women's line, the Mini Maestro
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Gerald Charles entered the world of women's watches in 2026 with the launch of the Mini Maestro. Inspired by the GC58 pièce unique created in 2006, the watch measures 30 mm in length and comes in 3 colors: black, ice blue and pink. It features water resistance to 50 meters, an in-house quick-release strap system, lightweight titanium construction and ErgonTeq® design. Priced at 2.2 million yen including tax, its bezel is set with 54 diamonds totaling 0.53 carats.
Fairtrade Label Japan has selected Indonesia and Sri Lanka cyclone recovery efforts as the recipients of donations from the Million Actions Campaign 2026.
With thanks for 30 years of support, a special anniversary website launches to mark the 30th anniversary of Honey Black Vinegar Diet!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Tamanoi Vinegar has launched a special website to mark the 30th anniversary of Honey Black Vinegar Diet. In appreciation of longstanding customer support, the company plans to build the brand through initiatives including new product launches under its new Honey Black Vinegar Cafe brand.
NE overhauls its business policy—becoming infrastructure that converts e-commerce businesses' “commitment to their products” into data AI agents can understand
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
NE Co., Ltd. has announced a new vision, “Commerce OS for the Agent Era,” and a shift to an infrastructure business that converts data from e-commerce businesses into a format AI agents can understand.
From Awashima, the Awashima Heart Project 2026 works toward zero marine plastic waste
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Tara Ocean Japan held a marine litter cleanup event on Awashima in 三豊市 on March 9, 2026, collecting about 510 kg. Government, industry and community representatives signed a joint declaration for zero marine plastic waste.
[Event Report] Japan's largest-scale student finance competition, the 4th Gyoseki Competition, held; Keio University team wins, with major financial institutions from Japan and overseas, including Point72, BlackRock and Tokio Marine Asset Management, taking part
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Gyoseki held the final of the 4th Gyoseki Competition, one of Japan's largest company analysis competitions for students. A Keio University team won, with major financial institutions also participating in judging and other roles.
The historic vintage denim jacket LEVI’S S506XXE, purchased by Five Star for 55 million yen, is recognized by Guinness World Records™ as the “most expensive secondhand denim jacket (excluding memorabilia)”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Five Star Co., Ltd. announced that its vintage denim jacket “LEVI’S S506XXE,” purchased for 55 million yen, was recognized by Guinness World Records™ as the “most expensive vintage denim jacket (excluding memorabilia).” The jacket is a wartime model from World War II and a historically valuable example with a split-back design. The company hopes to showcase Japan’s discerning eye and sense of value to the world through this project.
AI technology pioneer Spakona wins AI development project for next-generation unmanned aircraft
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Spakona Inc. and Doddwell BMS jointly won a project from the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency to develop “flight demonstration AI” for next-generation unmanned aircraft.
Regional tourism promotion partnership “Katsugite” launches its first implementation in Shibuya, holding “SCG DAYs 2026” in Shibuya Center-Gai
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Taiheiyo Shoji Co., Ltd. held “SCG DAYs 2026” in Shibuya Center-Gai on March 1, 2026, as the first implementation of its regional tourism promotion partnership service, “Katsugite.” The event was hosted by the Shibuya Center-Gai Regional Partnership Event Executive Committee and featured traditional performing arts and a regional products fair from across Japan. “Katsugite” is a service that provides end-to-end support, from promoting the appeal of local areas based in Shibuya to designing experiences and attracting visitors. A store-visit rally ran from February 1 to March 1 during the event period, and a prize drawing was also held on the day of the event.
Kyoto prototyping platform “Kyoto Shisaku Net” to exhibit at Startup JAPAN EXPO 2026 for the first time
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kyoto Shisaku Net will exhibit at Startup JAPAN EXPO 2026 for the first time, showcasing a concept model of a waste-heat power generation system. It will highlight technology coordination from a management perspective, aimed at minimizing development risks for hardware startups.
Industry-academia consortium “J-BAS” established to promote sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Japan Society of Industrial Machinery Manufacturers has established “J-BAS,” an industry-academia consortium aiming to build a domestic bioethanol production process using sorghum as a feedstock, to expand the supply of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and help realize a carbon-neutral society. International organizations have set a goal of halving carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, while the Japanese government aims to replace 10% of fuel consumption with SAF by 2030. However, as of 2020, SAF accounted for just 0.03% of total jet fuel supply. J-BAS will undertake technology development to close this gap. Its long-term goal is to bring production costs down to 100 yen per liter or less.
AI model uses AI image generation technology to create a brochure for 学校法人早稲田学園. Diverse visual expressions created from limited photography, with privacy in mind and no need to show the faces of students or faculty
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AI model Inc. introduced AI image generation technology for a high school brochure for 学校法人早稲田学園, creating diverse visual expressions without showing faces and with privacy in mind.
MetLife Life recognized as a “Benefits Promotion Corporation” for the 2nd consecutive year in “Hataraku Yell 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
MetLife Insurance Co., Ltd. was recognized as a “Benefits Promotion Corporation” for the 2nd consecutive year in “Hataraku Yell 2026.” The program evaluates the content and use of employee benefits from the perspective of a third party. The company received high marks for offering initiatives to a broad range of employees, including non-regular staff, and for enabling them to make use of benefits that meet diverse needs. These efforts not only create an environment where employees can work with confidence and perform to their full potential, but also provide a foundation for proposals to corporate clients. MetLife Life will continue to pursue human capital management initiatives focused on employee health, career development, and childcare and nursing-care support.
セルシス releases monthly business progress report for March 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
In March 2026, セルシス released a major version upgrade of “CLIP STUDIO PAINT” (Ver. 5.0), which was well received by creators worldwide. Sales exceeded 150% of the initial plan, and the increase in subscription contracts was the largest in the past 3 years. ARR for March reached a record 5.8 billion yen, and total company sales also set a new record. The churn rate temporarily rose following the major version upgrade but is expected to return to normal levels from the following month onward. New registrations also reached their highest level this fiscal year, and overseas sales campaigns contributed to the increase in sales.
OiiOii, transforming business efficiency, officially launches end-to-end AI support for video production workflows
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The next-generation AI video generation platform “OiiOii” officially launched a new feature in March 2026 that uses AI to handle the entire process, from planning to outputting finished content. An annual plan discount campaign will also run in March.
[Gunma, camp at a closed school] “Art Fire Festival 2026,” a celebration of fire and art, is coming! Kaguzuchi, featuring dazzling fire performances, is a special sponsor, and the TV-famous Hirokawa family will also appear!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kaguzuchi Inc. is a special sponsor of “Art Fire Festival 2026,” a fire festival taking place in Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, from April 24 to 26, 2026. The Hirokawa family will appear, and professional-led workshops will also be held.
Lovense, a leading company in the intimacy tech industry, localizes its proprietary ecosystem and technology for the Japanese market, bringing couples the “feeling” of connection in real time, no matter the distance.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Lovense is expanding the rollout of its intimacy tech product “Lovense Remote” in the Japanese market. Its ecosystem uses remote control to let couples feel connected in real time, even when they are apart.
TAIWAN NAP’S motorcycle gear specialty store | Arai, KOMINE, ELF authorized distributor in Taiwan
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
This article consists of technical website scripts, such as Google Tag Manager, and configuration data; it contains no main text. It concerns a motorcycle gear specialty store, but there is no specific news content to summarize.
This article contains technical scripts and style definition code for the ELLE fashion magazine website. There is no body text; it includes information about the site’s settings and display rules, so it cannot be summarized as news.
This article contains schema information defining the structure of the 檸檬直送 e-commerce website, which sells food, cosmetics, and other products from Taiwan. It includes no specific news text and cannot be summarized.
GQ SHOP: the go-to destination for online men’s fashion and lifestyle shopping
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Technical content related to the GQ SHOP website. The text is not a press release; it consists of JavaScript code related to Google Tag Manager and consent management (Fides). It contains fragmentary information about the site’s functionality.
This article contains technical scripts that make up the website of the fashion e-commerce site “VOGUE SHOP” (including Typekit fonts, Google Tag Manager and Fides). There is no specific news article; the content consists mainly of code related to site functionality and tracking, so it cannot be summarized.
This article consists of technical scripts and style definition code (CSS) that make up the website of the fashion media outlet “Vogue.” There is no specific news article; the content consists mainly of code related to site functionality and display rules, so it cannot be summarized.
This article contains technical scripts that make up the website of Taiwanese broadcaster CTS (including Google Tag Manager and advertising slot definitions). There is no specific news article; the content consists mainly of code related to site functionality and ad display, so it cannot be summarized.
This article contains technical scripts that make up the website of automotive parts brand “TENACITY” (including jQuery validator). There is no specific news article; the content consists mainly of code related to form validation, so it cannot be summarized.
This article contains technical scripts that make up the website of Taiwan's major e-commerce site “PChome 24h購物” (including Google Tag Manager). There is no specific news article; the content consists mainly of code related to site tracking, so it cannot be summarized.
This article contains technical font definition code that makes up the e-commerce site of premium tea brand “SAGE TEA.” There is no specific news article; it contains only information about the website's display style, so it cannot be summarized.
This article consists of technical scripts and loading instructions that make up the Yang Ming Marine Transport website. There is no specific news article; the content consists mainly of code for loading site components and assets, so it cannot be summarized.
Hong Kong unwire.hk | Tech News, AI Tutorials and Unboxing Reviews
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
This article contains schema information (Person, Organization, WebSite, etc.) defining the structure of the Hong Kong technology news site “unwire.hk.” It contains no specific news article and cannot be summarized.
Recommended dentists in Tainan: 悅康牙醫∣楓鄰牙醫, your good neighbors safeguarding your oral health
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
This article contains technical scripts that make up the website of the Tainan dental clinics “悅康牙醫∣楓鄰牙醫” (including RocketLazyLoadScripts). There is no specific news article; the content consists mainly of code related to site performance optimization, so it cannot be summarized.
HTML/CSS code for the LUMO 禾日微光・Essential Fragrance website. It includes style definitions related to product displays and shopping cart functionality, but no specific text describing the business.
Hsu Jo-hsi to start against the Seibu Lions on the 8th, potentially facing Lin An-ko for the first time in NPB
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan-born pitcher Xu Ruoxi is scheduled to start for the professional baseball team SoftBank Hawks against the Seibu Lions. The matchup between Taiwanese players Xu and Seibu's Lin Anke is drawing attention.
Former Kaohsiung City Council Speaker Tseng Li-yen suspected of corruption; travel restrictions extended for 8 months from May 25
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former Kaohsiung City Council Speaker Tseng Li-yen, suspected of corruption, faces a prison term of up to 12 years. A court ruled that restrictions barring her from leaving the country or traveling by sea will be extended for 8 months starting May 25. The case involves allegedly diverting public funds for legislative aides to personal use.
At the invitation of Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Cheng Li-wun is leading a delegation on a visit to China from April 7 to 12. The DPP legislative caucus raised 三 questions, asking Cheng to clarify whether she accepts Beijing’s political preconditions, whether the two sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one China, and whether she will refute Xi Jinping’s claims over Taiwan’s sovereignty. The DPP caucus said it supports normal exchanges but will not allow sovereignty to be traded for them, and urged Cheng to convey to Xi the Taiwanese people’s wish to see an end to verbal and military intimidation and to the suppression of Taiwan’s international space.
Seeking to ease tensions in the Middle East, Sanae Takaichi says call with Iranian president is being arranged
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japan’s Sanae Takaichi said arrangements are being made for a call with the Iranian president to ease tensions in the Middle East. Iran earlier released a Japanese NHK reporter who had been detained. Japan’s foreign minister spoke with Iran’s foreign minister and expressed concern over retaliatory attacks.
Lithuania proposes new cooperation plan to Taiwan; Foreign Ministry says it is carefully reviewing it
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Lithuania has submitted a new cooperation plan to Taiwan, and the Foreign Ministry has received it and is carefully reviewing it. Taiwan and Lithuania share values of freedom and democracy, and continue to deepen cooperation in laser technology, semiconductors and finance. Taiwan has invested more than 16.8 million euros in Lithuania through mechanisms including the Central and Eastern Europe Investment Fund, and provided 21 million euros in loans. Trade between the two countries continues to grow: in 2025, Taiwan’s imports from Lithuania rose 63.47%, while exports increased 13.6%.
Suspected food poisoning at bento shop sends 24 to hospital; New Taipei orders closure
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A suspected food poisoning incident occurred at a bento shop in New Taipei City. As of 11 a.m. today, 24 patients had been taken to hospital: 22 from the “Gong Suo” branch and 4 from the “Zhongxing” branch. The health department has ordered the “Qing Liu Cafeteria Gong Suo branch” to suspend operations and sent staff to inspect the Zhongxing branch. Most patients have mild symptoms; 2 are hospitalized for observation, while the others have returned home to recover. The health department has collected samples of the bentos, the environment and patients, and will determine whether this was a food poisoning incident based on the results.
South Korean presidential chief of staff heads to Middle East on energy security diplomacy mission
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
South Korean presidential chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik is leading a delegation to Kazakhstan, Oman and Saudi Arabia on a diplomatic mission to secure energy supplies. The trip aims to negotiate supplies of crude oil and naphtha, as South Korea’s economy is heavily dependent on Middle Eastern energy. Kang acknowledged that energy uncertainty is likely to persist. Although South Korea has reached an agreement with the UAE for 24 million barrels of crude oil, it still needs to prepare for the long term. The government has introduced a “real-time alert system” to monitor 70 to 80 items and will review alternative sources of supply.
KMT and TPP to follow Chiayi City model for cooperation in New Taipei and Yilan; KMT says rules to be discussed this week
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The KMT and the TPP jointly backed a candidate for Chiayi City mayor, with former legislator Chang Chi-kai, nominated by the TPP, coming out on top. The parties will follow the Chiayi City model to discuss rules for electoral cooperation in New Taipei and Yilan. TPP Secretary-General Chou Yu-hsiu and KMT’s Lee Che-hua both expressed confidence in cooperation and said they would maintain communication. For the Changhua County magistrate race, the parties will work together to find the strongest candidate. The KMT’s Organization and Development Committee will conduct a recruitment process, rather than a primary or negotiated opinion poll.
Taichung Port welcomes international cruise ship for first time in 7 years, hopes to attract more visitors to central Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The international cruise ship Island Sky has returned to Taichung Port for the first time in 7 years. The boutique small ship is operated by Noble Caledonia and has a gross tonnage of about 4,200 tons. The voyage began in Hong Kong and includes stops at Kaohsiung, Magong, Taichung, Keelung and Hualien. Legislative Yuan Deputy Speaker Chiang Chi-chen and DPP legislator Ho Hsin-chun attended the welcoming ceremony, highlighting the importance of cruise ship calls to Taichung’s tourism development. Tsao Chung-yu, head of the Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area Administration under the Tourism Administration, said the visit would bring new momentum to central Taiwan’s tourism industry and take international visitors to places such as Lukang Old Street and Sun Moon Lake.
Labor Ministry’s Youth Employment Flagship Program draws 1,200 companies in Yunlin, Chiayi and Tainan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Yunlin-Chiayi-Tainan Regional Branch of the Workforce Development Agency under the Ministry of Labor is promoting the “Youth Employment Flagship Program,” encouraging companies to hire young people first and provide training afterward, with subsidies available. A total of 1,200 companies in the region are participating, offering more than 21,000 jobs. Taiwan En-Chi Co. hired 37 young people through the program, with a retention rate of nearly 8 tenths. The program offers companies subsidies of up to NT$1.8 million a year, while young people can receive up to NT$54,000.
Chang Chi-kai wins KMT-TPP cooperation poll for Chiayi City mayor; Wang Mei-hui calls for rational competition
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In the Chiayi City mayoral race, former TPP legislator Chang Chi-kai won the KMT-TPP cooperation poll and will face DPP candidate Wang Mei-hui. Wang called for rational competition and said she would focus on deliberations over the overall budget. The KMT reacted calmly to the result and voiced support for jointly backing a candidate.
The Artemis II spacecraft orbited the moon at a distance of about 402,000 kilometers from Earth, conducting an approximately 6-hour observation of the moon’s far side. The mission broke the distance record set by Apollo 13 in 1970. The astronauts proposed naming two craters “Integrity” and “Carroll”; “Carroll” honors the late wife of mission commander Reid Wiseman. NASA will formally submit the naming proposals to the International Astronomical Union. The Orion spacecraft is expected to take about 4 days to return to Earth.
Yuan Ze University professor Hsu Yeh-liang receives master award in gerontechnology, becoming the world’s 第9 recipient
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Yuan Ze University professor Xu Yeliang has been named a “Gerontechnology Master” by the International Society for Gerontechnology. He is the 9th person worldwide to receive the distinction in the field. The selection was decided at the 14th World Conference in 2024, and the award ceremony will be held this year. Xu founded the Center for Gerontechnology Research in 2003, commercialized research achievements including smart mattresses, and saw them adopted at more than 40 medical and care facilities. Taiwan will host the 16th International Society for Gerontechnology World Conference in 2028, providing an international platform to present achievements under the theme “Bringing Gerontechnology Applications into Practice.”
特斯拉 to offer Taiwan’s first oil-to-electric vehicle trade-in subsidy as fuel prices rise
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
特斯拉 has launched Taiwan’s first “oil-to-electric” trade-in subsidy, offering up to NT$30,000 to counter rising fuel prices and accelerate electric vehicle adoption. Model 3 and Model Y buyers can get a zero-down-payment deal; sales led the market in March.
Councilor alleges parent-child center “Smart Little Players” deliberately shut down; Taipei City Government says it will handle the matter according to law
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei City councilors Hsu Shu-hua and Chen You-hsin accused the parent-child center “聰明小玩家” of abruptly shutting down and cheating parents out of “聰明金幣” worth thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. The operator allegedly continued encouraging parents to top up their accounts until shortly before closing, despite knowing of contract violations between October and December last year. There are currently 40-50 or more victims, with total losses said to amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Taipei City Government has launched an administrative investigation, the Department of Legal Affairs has received 23 complaints, and police are investigating the case on suspicion of fraud.
Pingtung’s “Vinyl Era Songs” tickets go on sale April 8; Chang Hsiu-ching and Hsiao Huang-chi to perform classics
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Pingtung County Government will hold a series of “Vinyl Era Songs” concerts featuring hits from the 70s to 90s, performed by singers including Chang Hsiu-ching, Chao Yung-hua and Hsiao Huang-chi. The concerts will begin on May 10, with tickets going on sale April 8.
Cho Jung-tai says Central Election Commission personnel case lacks credibility; KMT caucus calls remarks untrue
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Legislative Yuan voted on March 13 on consent to appointments to the Central Election Commission, approving 4 nominees including You Ying-lung as commissioners, while rejecting 3 others, including DPP nominee Hu Po-yen. Cho Jung-tai criticized the KMT for lacking integrity in the legislature. In response, the KMT Legislative Yuan caucus issued its “strongest condemnation,” accusing Cho of failing to reflect on the government's inefficiency and of politically smearing the opposition. The KMT caucus said the Executive Yuan was guilty of administrative negligence for delaying appointments even though the Legislative Yuan had approved the personnel nominations, and rejected Cho's attempt to shift blame.
ITRI partners with U.S. drone association to establish green drone verification in Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) has partnered with the U.S. drone industry association to establish a green drone verification system in Taiwan, which will incorporate the U.S. defense system’s Blue UAS verification program. The initiative aims to verify a “non-China supply chain” for drones and reinforce Taiwan’s role as a key U.S. high-tech industry base and homeland security ally. ITRI President Chang Pei-jen said the United States has replaced China as Taiwan’s largest export market, showing that Taiwan’s investment and trade focus has shifted to the U.S. ITRI will help Taiwanese and U.S. companies with product exports and technology cooperation to strengthen the competitiveness of both industries. ITRI has nearly 7,000 employees and is Taiwan’s largest industrial research institution.
Dimerco: Shipping port congestion worsens; rising fuel costs support air freight rates
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Dimerco Express Group reported consolidated revenue of 2.64 billion Taiwan dollars in March, up 3.4% year on year and 28.4% month on month. Consolidated revenue for the first quarter was 7.05 billion Taiwan dollars, up 0.9% year on year. Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have increased congestion at major Asian ports as restrictions on passage through the Strait of Hormuz and the risk of a closure mount. Rising fuel costs and airlines' adjustments to fuel surcharges are pushing airfares higher and increasing overall logistics costs. In ocean freight, shipping delays and port congestion have become pronounced, while rising fuel costs are rippling through the entire supply chain.
Price-gouging checks during Tomb Sweeping holiday: Investigation Bureau visits 712 wholesalers and retailers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
During the Tomb Sweeping holiday, the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau ordered its offices nationwide to send staff to wholesalers in the plastics industry to investigate changes in petrochemical raw material prices and supply volumes. The bureau also joined an interagency “joint price inspection team” to check traditional markets, hypermarkets, plastic bag manufacturers and wholesalers for hoarding and price gouging. Vendors at Ningxia Night Market reported plastic bag prices had risen by 三 to 五 tenths. The bureau deployed 1,042 staff visits and inspected 712 businesses, urging companies not to hoard or raise prices opportunistically. Violations will be reported to the competent authorities for penalties.
Taiwan-U.S. ART sparks investment rush to U.S.; North American Taiwanese chambers launch advisory platform to help companies establish operations
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The National Association of Chinese-Federated Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce in North America held a forum on the “New Framework for Taiwan-U.S. Economic and Trade Agreements,” examining opportunities and strategies for Taiwanese companies investing in the United States. Overseas Community Affairs Council Minister Hsu Chia-ching said Taiwan is the United States’ 第四-largest trading partner and the United States is Taiwan’s 第一-largest, underscoring deepening economic ties. Following the signing of the ART, Taiwan pledged US$250 billion in private investment in sectors including semiconductors and the defense industry. The association has launched a matchmaking platform offering advice on investing in the U.S. The Ministry of Economic Affairs has earmarked NT$46 billion to help small and medium-sized businesses deal with the impact of tariffs. Maryland Secretary of State Lee Feng-chien stressed that Maryland would deepen its partnership with Taiwan. Deputy Foreign Minister Ko Pao-hsuan said Taiwan and the U.S. are working together to build a more resilient, secure and trusted non-China supply chain.
Tong Tzu-wei unveils child and youth policies: NT$60,000 for first child and monthly childcare vouchers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Addressing the low birth rate in Keelung City, Tong Tzu-wei proposed child and youth policies covering four stages: birth, childcare, upbringing and education. The first-child birth incentive would be NT$60,000, bringing the total to NT$160,000 with central government subsidies. For childcare, he proposed “1 public daycare center per 1 junior high school district,” expanded nighttime and extended-hour care, and incentives for companies to establish childcare facilities. Families with children aged 0 to 3 would receive NT$1,000 in monthly childcare vouchers, and free rotavirus vaccinations would be provided. New students entering elementary, junior high and senior high school would each receive NT$10,000. The policy is estimated to require an annual budget of about NT$200 million and aims to keep talent in Keelung.
Miaoli man who randomly attacked people after using drugs sentenced to 29 years in first trial
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Miaoli District Court sentenced Chiu Ming-chih to 29 years in prison in the first trial for randomly attacking people in public after using amphetamines. He had previously served time for attempted murder and committed the new crime less than 7 months after his release, stabbing an elementary school girl and a man surnamed Lin with a kitchen knife and injuring 3 people. The court found that his ability to understand and control his actions was not substantially diminished at the time of the crime, so mitigating provisions did not apply. The case sparked public fear, and the court imposed a mid-to-high-level sentence in light of his criminal record and the circumstances of the crime, in order to protect public safety.
New Taiwan dollar rises 0.7 cent at midday, temporarily closing at 31.965
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The New Taiwan dollar rose 0.7 cent against the U.S. dollar at midday, temporarily closing at 31.965. It reached a session high of 31.915 in the morning and a low of 31.995.
Day 38 of the Middle East war: Trump threatens destruction, Iran vows to keep fighting; latest developments
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to destroy all of Iran if it did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iran called the threat “baseless” and vowed to continue fighting. The Israeli military attacked 3 airports in Tehran and destroyed Iran's largest petrochemical facility. International organizations have warned against attacks on civilian infrastructure and threats to nuclear facilities. Wall Street stocks rose amid market hopes for a ceasefire in the Middle East, while oil prices also climbed.
KMT lawmakers say they never agreed to approve Central Election Commission nominees; Cho Jung-tai: I accept that I was fooled
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In March, the Legislative Yuan did not approve the full list of 7 nominees for the Central Election Commission, and the Executive Yuan is watching for replacement nominations and when the approved appointees will take office. KMT lawmaker Lo Chih-chiang countered Executive Yuan President Cho Jung-tai's claim that the KMT caucus had agreed to the Central Election Commission appointments, demanding written evidence. Cho said the Executive Yuan would cooperate with the process if the KMT caucus showed good faith, and said he had been “deceived.”
Trump again complains allies are “not helping”; Japanese prime minister declines to comment directly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed frustration that allies were not helping protect energy transport routes in the Middle East. He singled out Japan, saying the United States stations 50,000 troops there to protect it from the threat posed by North Korea. Japanese Minister Takaichi did not comment directly on Trump's remarks, but stressed the importance of dialogue for peace and stability in the Middle East. The Japanese government indicated it would continue diplomatic efforts and work closely with the United States, including through Japan-U.S. summit meetings.
April 7 is National Tea Day; tea association offers free tea to revive human warmth
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taiwan Tea Association is holding free tea events nationwide to mark “National Tea-Drinking Day” on April 7. It is also promoting GABA tea, which has relaxing effects.
Taiwanese expatriate’s nationality changed to Chinese; 外交部 urges Denmark in strongest terms to propose a solution
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's 外交部 strongly urged the Danish government to correct the change of the nationality listed on residence permits for Taiwanese residents in Denmark from “Taiwan” to “China”.
Mazu pilgrimage takes more than a toll on the legs; 5 groups at risk of osteoporosis and falls from prolonged sitting
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Doctors are warning that people at high risk of osteoporosis should take care to avoid falls and fractures during activities involving prolonged walking or standing, such as the Mazu pilgrimage.
Suspected food poisoning linked to Kaohsiung spring rolls rises to 157 cases; patients in stable condition
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The number of patients suspected of food poisoning from spring rolls in Kaohsiung has risen to 157. Salmonella bacteria were detected in patient samples.
Lee Chen-hsiu makes her debut at general questioning; Cho Jung-tai says Executive Yuan officials are not obligated to answer questions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
During questioning by legislator Lee Chen-hsiu at the Legislative Yuan, Premier Cho Jung-tai said she was not legally qualified to serve as a legislator of the Republic of China because she had not renounced her Chinese household registration and nationality. Cho said government officials were not required to respond to questions from individuals without legal qualifications, and instructed Interior Minister Liu Shih-fang and Mainland Affairs Council Minister Chiu Chui-cheng not to take the questioning platform. Legislative Yuan President Han Kuo-yu stressed that legislators' right to question officials was established under the Constitution, but Cho and his Cabinet ministers did not respond to Lee's questions. Lee criticized the Executive Yuan's response as discrimination against new immigrants and spouses from mainland China, and as an act that undermined the Constitution.