Overall budget set to be sent to committee on 21; Executive Yuan plans to coordinate a review of military and police compensation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The ruling and opposition parties in 立法院 agreed to refer the stalled government budget proposal for the current fiscal year to committee on the 21st. 行政院 will also consider a plan to improve military and police compensation.
If US continues blockade of ports, Iran’s military threatens to block key shipping lanes including the Red Sea
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Iran’s military warned that it would block important shipping lanes such as the Red Sea and Persian Gulf if the United States continues its blockade of Iranian ports.
Kyoto boy murder case: Japanese media say stepfather admitted dumping body
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An 11-year-old boy who had gone missing in Nantan, Kyoto Prefecture, was found dead in a mountainous area. Police plan to seek an arrest warrant for his 37-year-old stepfather on suspicion of abandoning the body.
Anchor 王嘉琳 discusses stories of new residents on new show, takes positive view of Indian migrant workers coming to Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Anchor 王嘉琳 and Vietnamese actor 郭雅茹 attended a promotional event for a new program about new residents. They also expressed a positive view of accepting Indian workers in Taiwan.
2026 Independent Book Festival opens on the 18th; enjoy music and books at Treasure Hill
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Independent Book Festival will be held on the 18th and 19th at Treasure Hill Artist Village in Taipei, with independent bookstores collaborating with musicians.
Iran: Still communicating with US through Pakistan; Washington: No agreement to extend ceasefire
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Iran and the United States have continued contact through Pakistan since their negotiations broke down. The US has not yet formally agreed to extend the ceasefire by 2 weeks, and talks between the two countries remain difficult.
Iran war drives up oil prices; Norway’s March crude oil export value hits record
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Norway’s crude oil export value in March hit a record high as oil prices surged amid worsening Middle East tensions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Vice president: Peace depends on strength; higher defense spending will ensure peace in the Taiwan Strait
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim said during a meeting with the US think tank Council on Foreign Relations that Taiwan believes in “peace through strength” and will gradually increase defense spending to ensure peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan’s GDP growth reached 8.68% last year, and the island has advantages in semiconductors and AI. The defense budget will reach 3% of GDP this year, with a target of 5% by 2030. Taiwan actively participates in the international community and shares its experience in humanitarian assistance, small and medium-sized business development, and women’s empowerment.
EU plans to raise steel tariffs; 中鋼 to prioritize specialty steel products, 燁輝 takes orders early
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to the European Union’s plan to raise steel import tariffs to 50% and reduce the duty-free quota, 中鋼 said it would prioritize high-value-added specialty steel products and develop emerging markets. 燁輝 anticipated the move and has secured orders through the 3rd quarter. The Ministry of Economic Affairs said the impact on Taiwan’s industries remains uncertain until the bill is formally adopted and detailed measures are announced. Exports to Europe account for about 12% of 中鋼’s total exports and 10% to 15% of 燁輝’s.
TVBS holds brand launch, emphasizes “Using AI to understand AI better”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
TVBS held its 2026 brand launch under the theme “Use AI and understand AI better.” The company unveiled 10 services integrating content production, live events, media communications and international marketing. It also introduced the new brand “TVBS Activation聯力啟動,” original dramas and the financial brand “TVBS財經.” In addition, it developed “AI Wize,” an AI solution for the news industry, to safeguard truth in the AI era.
Unregistered light aircraft suspected of crashing in field in Yunlin’s Huwei; pilot injured and hospitalized
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A light aircraft crashed into a field in Huwei Township, Yunlin County, at around 4 p.m., injuring the 52-year-old pilot, surnamed Yu, who was taken to hospital. Police said the aircraft was suspected of being unregistered with the Civil Aviation Administration. The aircraft was a Storch ultralight model and is believed to have crashed from a height of about 6 meters. Local residents said the pilot had rented land from Taiwan Sugar to build a runway and flew on weekends.
國台辦 criticizes 外交部’s countermeasures against Denmark’s downgrading of Taiwan; 陸委會: CCP has no right to interfere
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After Denmark changed the nationality listed on Taiwanese residents’ residence permits to “Chinese,” Taiwan’s 外交部 took countermeasures. The Mainland Affairs Council criticized China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, saying it had “no right to interfere.”
Second school shooting in Turkey in 2 days leaves at least 4 dead and 20 injured
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A student opened fire at a middle school in southeastern Turkey, killing at least 4 people and injuring 20. It was the country’s second school shooting in 2 days.
Man in Puli, Nantou, detained over fatal assault on woman; autopsy to determine cause of death
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man in his 20s was detained in connection with the death of his live-in partner, whom he allegedly assaulted in Puli Township, Nantou County. Prosecutors are conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
客委會 seeks participating merchants for 客家幣2.0; eligibility eased and applications open nationwide
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Hakka Affairs Council has begun recruiting merchants nationwide for 客家幣2.0. The initiative aims to make Hakka a part of everyday life and boost local economies.
More than a hundred people suspected of food poisoning in Taoyuan and Yunlin; FDA urges investigation into cause
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
More than 100 people were taken to hospitals with suspected food poisoning in Taoyuan and Yunlin, following cases in Kaohsiung and New Taipei. In Taoyuan, 121 people reported symptoms after eating boxed meals from 上野烤肉飯, while 70 people fell ill after dining at 劍湖山世界餐廳 in Yunlin County. The Food and Drug Administration urged local health bureaus to investigate the cause and instructed related groups to step up food poisoning prevention guidance. The Centers for Disease Control said cases of abdominal pain and diarrhea have been increasing since the Qingming Festival.
Torrential rain mudflow sweeps through Tongxiao home; Miaoli County government probes farmland violations, issues fines and refers case to prosecutors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A home in Tongxiao Township, Miaoli County, was hit by a mudflow after torrential rain. A county government investigation found that soil had been illegally dumped and land leveled on farmland behind the home. Relevant departments had already imposed fines 2 times and issued a third fine this January. Construction continued even after the disaster on the 4th, so the Department of Commerce imposed a fine of NT$300,000 and referred the case to prosecutors. The Environmental Protection Bureau also penalized those involved for violations of the Waste Disposal Act and other laws.
New Taipei City art exhibition and literature awards open for submissions; total prize money NT$2.81 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Submissions have opened for the New Taipei City Art Exhibition and New Taipei City Literature Award, with total prize money of NT$2.81 million. The 38th New Taipei City Art Exhibition is accepting entries through May 15, with total prize money of NT$1.5 million. The 16th New Taipei City Literature Award, themed “Reproducing Everyday Life,” is accepting entries through July 15, with total prize money of NT$1.31 million. The art exhibition has general and youth categories, while the literature award accepts entries in 5 categories: prose, poetry, short fiction, picture-book stories and new immigrant graphic and written works. The Cultural Affairs Department has adjusted eligibility for the literature award and established youth and new immigrant graphic and written works categories.
Taiwanese spend the most in Japan, topping all countries in Q1 2026
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japan’s Tourism Agency announced that spending by international visitors reached 2.3378 trillion yen in the first quarter of 2026. Travelers from Taiwan spent 388.4 billion yen, the most of any country. South Korea followed with 318.2 billion yen and China with 271.5 billion yen; spending by Chinese visitors fell 50.4% year over year. However, spending by travelers from Taiwan, South Korea, the United States and other countries increased, keeping total spending up 2.5% from a year earlier. Per-capita spending was highest among French visitors, and accommodation was the largest spending category.
Cybersecurity arms race enters nanosecond era; Google says industry should adopt an immune-system mindset
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Royal Hansen, Google’s vice president of engineering, said advances in AI technology have accelerated cyberattacks to the nanosecond scale. He said cybersecurity should shift to an “immune system” mindset and achieve defense at scale through “built-in security.” He proposed automating security maintenance with AI agents and introduced the concepts of “guardian agents” and “permission bubbles.” He also addressed the encryption threat posed by quantum computing, stressing that preparations to transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) must be in place by 2029.
National Space Center authorizes 捷揚航電 to sell satellite GPGPU; international buyers in talks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The National Space Organization (TASA) has authorized 捷揚航電 to sell a satellite GPGPU they developed together. The GPGPU uses Nvidia chips and a modular design, enabling stable operation in the space environment. International buyers have already expressed interest, and the product is ready to enter global markets. It has completed a flight test aboard a CubeSat, validating its in-orbit computing and AI capabilities. TASA will continue supporting domestic companies in commercializing space technology and building up flight records and systems integration experience.
Pinhole camera found in employee restroom at Taipei station; male Taiwan Railways employee arrested, referred to prosecutors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A pinhole camera was found in an employee restroom at Taipei Main Station, and a male Taiwan Railways employee surnamed Weng was arrested. He admitted to the allegations and was referred to prosecutors on suspicion of violating sexual privacy. Taiwan Railways received a report on March 31 and inspected all restrooms at Taipei station for pinhole cameras on April 2, finding no other irregularities. The alleged offenses are believed to have occurred over about 1 week, with about 3 victims. Taiwan Railways completed its administrative investigation on April 2 and plans to hold a disciplinary meeting on April 17.
Plumber in Taipei collapses while working and dies in hospital; electrical leakage ruled out at scene
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A plumber working in Taipei’s Zhongshan District collapsed and was taken to hospital, where he died. No electrical leakage was found at the scene, and the cause of death is under investigation.
Suspected food poisoning at Taoyuan bento shop; 121 people report symptoms, 91 seek medical care
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A spate of suspected food poisoning cases has been reported at a bento shop in Taoyuan, with 121 people experiencing symptoms and 91 seeking medical care. The health bureau is investigating.
No cross-party consensus on special military procurement bill; legislature to hear Defense Ministry report next week before resuming talks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s ruling and opposition parties have failed to reach agreement on the special defense bill. They will resume talks after a special report by the Defense Ministry next week.
Dispute over 中工 board election; shareholder’s lawyer deposits NT$3.3 million to seek compulsory enforcement
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In a dispute over 中工’s board election, the Intellectual Property and Commercial Court ruled that nominees proposed by shareholders must be included on the candidate list. The shareholders deposited a bond with the Taipei District Court and applied for compulsory enforcement.
Peter Ho’s new drama: Thai star Chutimon, Chen Hao-sen and Tsao Yu-ning take on a 3-way love triangle
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
TVBS held a cast announcement press conference for its new drama “對你心動的預言.” Directed by Peter Ho, the series stars Thai actress Chutimon, Chen Hao-sen and Tsao Yu-ning in a love triangle. Chutimon is making her Taiwan drama debut and taking on Chinese-language lines, and Peter Ho praised her dedication. Tsao Yu-ning received fitness training and professional coaching for his role as a basketball player.
U.S.-Iran war impacts energy; Chinese authorities say hydrogen development will bolster energy security
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
With the U.S.-Iran war affecting global energy supplies and prices, China’s National Energy Administration held a meeting to advance pilot programs for hydrogen energy. The meeting stressed that hydrogen energy is key to achieving the 2050 carbon neutrality target and a strategic pillar of national energy security. Pilot programs are underway in 9 regions, each developing a distinct model. China will accelerate technological innovation and institutional reform to meet the goals of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026 to 2030) and build an “energy powerhouse.”
Taiwan submits written comments in response to U.S. Section 301 investigation, addressing forced labor and other concerns
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan has submitted written comments in response to the U.S. Section 301 investigation, including addressing U.S. concerns about structural excess capacity and forced labor. Taiwan emphasized that it is a market economy and a strategic partner of the United States in high-tech industries. It also outlined concrete efforts to prevent forced labor, including issuing guidelines and submitting proposed legal amendments.
Vance: Distrust between U.S. and Iran will not be resolved overnight, but Iran wants an agreement
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. Vice President JD Vance said deep-seated distrust between the United States and Iran cannot be resolved overnight, but offered an optimistic view of the current negotiations, saying Iran wants an agreement.
Many unanswered questions in Kyoto boy’s death; scattered physical evidence raises suspicion of deliberate effort to disrupt investigation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In the case of an 11-year-old boy found dead in Nantan, Kyoto Prefecture, belongings linked to him were found scattered, raising suspicions of homicide.
Mega International Commercial Bank opens outpost in India’s GIFT City to support Taiwanese businesses overseas
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Mega International Commercial Bank has received approval to establish a branch in India’s GIFT City, as India attracts growing interest as an investment destination for Taiwanese companies. The move will support Taiwanese businesses expanding overseas and strengthen a driver of loan growth. The bank aims to leverage GIFT City’s tax incentives and concentration of financial firms, deepen ties with international financial institutions and boost its competitiveness in the South Asian market.
Chang Gung eye tumor center unveiled, bringing together specialties to offer hope for eye cancer patients
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taoyuan Chang Gung Memorial Hospital held an unveiling ceremony for its eye tumor center. Through multidisciplinary coordination and partnerships with eye tumor centers overseas, it will provide one-stop care. The center is introducing precision medicine and radiation therapy to improve patients’ quality of life. Officials emphasized that eye tumors are rare and early diagnosis is important.
YOASOBI announces its biggest-ever North American tour, “YOASOBI NORTH AMERICA TOUR 2026 \"NEVER ENDING STORIES\",” starting in August!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
YOASOBI has announced that it will hold its largest North American tour to date, “YOASOBI NORTH AMERICA TOUR 2026 ‘NEVER ENDING STORIES’,” starting in August 2026.
NPO AlonAlon (Chairman Satoshi Nabe, Isumi, Chiba Prefecture) has been commissioned by 富津市農業協同組合 to provide rice seedling-raising services for the Reiwa 8 crop.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
NPO AlonAlon announced that it has been commissioned by 富津市農業協同組合 in Chiba Prefecture to provide seedling-raising services for rice grown in the Reiwa 8 crop. The initiative has drawn attention for its aim of supporting the independence of people with intellectual and mental disabilities and creating stable employment opportunities through a business model that links agriculture and welfare.
ITS株式会社 tops the overall score in the government agencies category of “GENIAC-PRIZE” and wins the special “Social Impact Award”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ITS株式会社 topped the overall score in the government agencies category of “GENIAC-PRIZE” and won the special “Social Impact Award.” Its technical support for improving search quality was recognized.
Japanese corporate management education ranks 60th out of 64 countries—a shocking result. Imagina partners with ケンブリッジ大学 and reveals the “Business EQ” needed to thrive in an era of 15,000 times as much information
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Imagina has partnered with ケンブリッジ大学 and announced “Business EQ,” which aims to enhance corporate value against the backdrop of Japan’s lagging management education, ranked 60th out of 64 countries.
GIVE CREATION honors all employees’ contributions at its 5th “GIVE ALL AWARD” and looks ahead to its next phase
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ギブクリエーション held its 5th “GIVE ALL AWARD” and announced its strategy to bring AI and IT resources in-house through M&A and build an HR Tech platform.
[Results Report] An integrated customer-acquisition model combining “social media × advertising × flyer distribution × influencers” for sports schools
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A report detailing results from building an integrated customer-acquisition model for sports schools that combines “social media × advertising × flyer distribution × influencers” has been released.
Results of the No. 1 verification survey on the market for “AI services specializing in the accounting industry”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
未来トレンド研究機構 announced the results of its No. 1 verification survey on “AI services specializing in the accounting industry.” It is inviting requests for verification and market research surveys.
Polimill unveils teaser site for “Qommons ONE,” an app store exclusively for government agencies—an [administrative AX co-creation platform] that directly reaches 1,200 municipalities and 800,000 employees, with a beta version set for release in April
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Polimill has unveiled a teaser site for “Qommons ONE,” an app store exclusively for government agencies and available to 1,200 municipalities and 800,000 employees, with a beta version set for release in April.
Joint custody starts in April: What will change for finances, parent-child relationships and marital relationships?
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kiyomi Iino, a counselor specializing in divorce issues, has published a new book addressing the introduction of “joint custody” in April 2026. It explains changes to finances and parent-child and marital relationships after divorce.
Win a pair stay or lunch at ソラノホテル! Announcement of the launch of the fifth SLF social media campaign
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ファーストイノベーション has launched the fifth installment of the “SLF social media campaign,” offering a chance to win a stay or lunch at ソラノホテル. The company aims to solve business challenges and revitalize regional communities through the use of websites and social media.
AMI Paris unveils new spring collection with João Neves
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AMI Paris has unveiled a new spring collection featuring João Neves. The collection highlights the brand’s Parisian inspiration, rooted in its origins, and practical wardrobe essentials.