# AI News 180m Report｜2026-04-18 09:00–12:00 JST

One place for news and notices from 2 countries/regions: Japan, 35 items from 1 source; Taiwan, 20 items from 1 source.One edition every 180 minutes: every item from every source received in the period, with the original link.

## 【Hiroshima/Sera】Wisteria light-up: The grounds of the “Wisteria and Lupine Festival” will be illuminated from April 29 to May 5 《Sera Fuji Garden》

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:10:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000132.000112057.html
- anchor: #n142764

A light-up event for the “Wisteria and Lupine Festival” will be held at Sera Kogen Farm (Sera Fuji Garden) in Hiroshima Prefecture from April 29 to May 5.

## 【One of the largest】My fave’s buzzworthy “My Doll Patch” for fan activities arrives at Nagoya PARCO on Apr. 24

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000031.000100460.html
- anchor: #n142771

A new AI tool has been released that allows users to generate images by describing them with text. This tool promises to revolutionize digital art creation.

## 【Notice of a 20% off monthly tuition campaign for 2 months】A cram school specializing in Kochi University admissions is offering a 20% off monthly tuition campaign for 2 months through April 30, 2026

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000222.000176368.html
- anchor: #n142770

Study Chain Co., Ltd. is offering a 20% tuition discount campaign for two months until April 30, 2026, for students aiming to pass Kochi University, as part of its efforts to maximize educational potential.

## 【Limited to 30 people】Networking event with IBJ Chairman Ishizaka! Behind-the-scenes look at the management decisions that built the industry’s No. 1 company through M&A

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000230.000054393.html
- anchor: #n142769
- Companies mentioned: IBJ

A networking event with IBJ Chairman Ishizaka will be held for a limited 30 people. The management decisions behind building an industry-leading company will be revealed, and a vision for a business platform for growing companies will be shared.

## To celebrate the release of convenience store prints for the TV anime “Maid-san wa Taberu Dake”! Follow and repost for a chance to win a bromide with an original autograph from Chihiro Suno, voice of Ricotta! Campaign now underway!

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000248.000027316.html
- anchor: #n142768

A campaign is underway to celebrate the release of convenience store prints for the TV anime 'Maid-san wa Taberu Dake', offering a chance to win a signed bromide from voice actress Chihiro Suno.

## Cram school specializing in Tokushima University admissions announces new slogan, “Less reckless effort, more precision.” Rebranding aims to achieve 90 successful applicants

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000298.000176368.html
- anchor: #n142767

Study Chain Co., Ltd., an EDTECH company, announced its new slogan 'Not just Guts, but Precisely' and is rebranding to aim for 90 student acceptances. This move signifies a strategic shift towards more effective learning methods.

## I want to keep watching over this love forever! New books from the youth BL label “BeLuck Bunko” go on sale starting Monday, April 20, 2026!!

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000002143.000000607.html
- anchor: #n142766

New books from the BL label 'BeLuck Bunko' will be released on Monday, April 20, 2026. The publisher also operates novel sites like 'Noichigo' and 'Berry's Cafe'.

## 【Tokyo Station Hotel】Make the most of the long holiday! Recommended ways to enjoy Golden Week at Tokyo Station Hotel

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000002353.000030117.html
- anchor: #n142765
- Companies mentioned: JR東日本ホテルズ、メズム東京、オートグラフ コレクション、メトロポリタンホテルズ、JR東日本ホテルメッツ

Tokyo Station Hotel, part of JR East Hotel Group, offers recommendations for enjoying Golden Week, highlighting its historic charm and services for a fulfilling holiday experience.

## 【New opening near Dokkyo University Station】Self-storage facility “Spalab Soka Benten” opens on May 1, 2026!

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:30:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000717.000062166.html
- anchor: #n142757

A self-storage facility, “Spalab Soka Benten,” will open near Dokkyo University Station on May 1, 2026. It is part of a real estate innovation initiative making use of vacant homes.

## “QuickCheck,” an AI-assisted security questionnaire response service, completes implementation and delivery to 日本を代表する財閥系グループの老舗IT企業

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:20:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000032.000138212.html
- anchor: #n142760
- Companies mentioned: 日本を代表する財閥系グループの老舗IT企業

The AI-assisted security questionnaire response service “QuickCheck” has been implemented at 日本を代表する財閥系グループの老舗IT企業. This adoption reflects advances in AI-driven operational efficiency and the automation of security compliance.

## Products discounted by as much as 50% or more!? 3 days of “deals only those who find them can enjoy.” antiquа SAMPLE SALE packed with hidden gems at WHATAWON

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:20:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000679.000096544.html
- anchor: #n142759
- Companies mentioned: WHATAWON

Apparel brand antiqua will hold a sample sale at the multipurpose complex WHATAWON for 3 days only, with discounts of up to 50% or more.

## Tokushima Naruto Onsen【35th anniversary】A special lodging plan from AoAwo to show its appreciation! 7 great perks, including free stays for preschoolers and half-price stays for elementary school students, plus fishing pond experiences for 35 yen

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:20:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001008.000024632.html
- anchor: #n142758
- Companies mentioned: ルネッサンス リゾート オキナワ、ココ ガーデンリゾート オキナワ、吉祥やまなか、かがり吉祥亭、吉祥CAREN、つるや吉祥亭

AoAwo Naruto Resort has begun selling a special lodging plan to mark its 35th anniversary, featuring 7 benefits, including free stays for preschoolers and half-price stays for elementary school students.

## 『全日本しりとり選手権大会』開催実現に向け、一般社団法人日本しりとり協会がクラウドファンディング開始。リターンとして、アナログゲーム・Ｔシャツ・セミナーなどを提供。

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:18:44+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000001.000181597.html
- anchor: #n142761
- Companies mentioned: 一般社団法人日本しりとり協会

一般社団法人日本しりとり協会 has launched crowdfunding to hold the “All-Japan Shiritori Championship.”

## Every guide brings new discoveries. Animal edutainers weave together the present in a new tour, “LIVE! Safari,” debuting during Golden Week!

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:02:38+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001133.000040302.html
- anchor: #n142737
- Companies mentioned: アドベンチャーワールド

A new tour, “LIVE! Safari,” led by animal edutainers, will debut during Golden Week at アドベンチャーワールド in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture.

## 【New product】Packs an automatic collection dock into a vacuum weighing as little as 3 plastic bottles. Takes the hassle out of cleaning. Presales begin on Makuake on April 18!

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000008.000105016.html
- anchor: #n142751
- Companies mentioned: Makuake

Home appliance brand RISOU has begun presales on Makuake for a new vacuum cleaner featuring a lightweight design equivalent to 3 plastic bottles and an automatic collection dock.

## 【5月限定】まるで花束を味わうショートケーキ。歌舞伎町で完売が続く“話題の青いケーキ”が今年も登場。

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000010.000092074.html
- anchor: #n142750

SNS戦略や運用サポートを行う企業が、歌舞伎町で毎年完売が続く話題の「青いケーキ」を5月限定で再登場させます。花束のような見た目が特徴です。

## “Kanon-KANON-” — an afternoon “coffee and music” event presented by CAFE KFK × THE CHARM PARK in Kyoto! Reservations open today at 10 a.m.

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000012.000131238.html
- anchor: #n142749
- Companies mentioned: CAFE KFK

CAFE KFK and THE CHARM PARK have teamed up to hold “Kanon-KANON-,” an event in Kyoto featuring coffee and music. Reservations opened today at 10 a.m.

## Orange Home Care Clinic wins the grand prize in the OPERATOR OF THE YEAR – HOME CARE category at the 14th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards 2026

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000019.000152822.html
- anchor: #n142748
- Companies mentioned: オレンジグループ、医療法人オレンジ

Orange Home Care Clinic has won the grand prize in the HOME CARE category at the 14th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards 2026. Its community-based care integrating healthcare and daily living is believed to have earned high praise.

## 【Japan-first launch】The “star” on the cap is the signature feature! Five carefully selected shades of collectible mini-gloss tint from Korean brand “tiptoe” go on sale (990 yen, tax included)

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000022.000088022.html
- anchor: #n142747
- Companies mentioned: tiptoe

Mini Gloss Tint from Korean cosmetics brand “tiptoe” has launched first in Japan. It comes in 5 shades and costs 990 yen, tax included.

## 【Japan debut】For juicy, plump lips: a new honey-gloss from “teo and the (テオアンダー),” ranked No. 1 overall in Olive Young’s Lip Makeup category in Korea※1!

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000025.000088022.html
- anchor: #n142746
- Companies mentioned: Olive Young

Korean cosmetics brand “teo and the” has made its Japan debut, launching the honey-gloss that ranked No. 1 at Olive Young. A cosmetics import agency is supporting its domestic rollout.

## The freshly baked〈Yukari〉factory shop celebrates its 1st anniversary!

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000085.000078605.html
- anchor: #n142745

The factory shop of long-established shrimp cracker maker 坂角総本舖, based in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture, has marked its 1st anniversary.

## Monthly ranking of when current high school students want to have a partner

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000160.000162122.html
- anchor: #n142744

株式会社ワカモノリサーチ announced the results of a survey of current high school students on the monthly ranking of when they want to have a partner. The findings shed light on young people’s real views on romance.

## “Festival of Intertwining【Rite of Flower Dance】Fair” to be held at Monster Hunter Sakaba!!

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000175.000119643.html
- anchor: #n142743
- Companies mentioned: 株式会社NSグループ、ニュートン・サンザグループ、カプコン（推測）

A new “Festival of Intertwining【Rite of Flower Dance】” fair will be held at “Monster Hunter Sakaba,” operated by the NS Group.

## 【Notice of first-month tuition-free campaign】Shimane University admissions prep school to offer first-month tuition free through April 30, 2026

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000221.000176368.html
- anchor: #n142742
- Companies mentioned: スタディチェーン株式会社（Study Chain）、島根大学

スタディチェーン株式会社が運営する島根大学合格特化塾が、2026年4月30日までの期間限定で初月月謝無料キャンペーンを開始した。

## 【Rebranding】Yamaguchi University admissions prep school adopts new slogan, “Don’t get the direction of your efforts wrong,” and aims to help 90 students pass

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000297.000176368.html
- anchor: #n142741
- Companies mentioned: スタディチェーン株式会社

“Yamaguchi University Admissions Prep School,” operated by スタディチェーン株式会社, has undergone rebranding and adopted a new slogan. It aims to help 90 students pass.

## Bringing well-being to the region through “AI × amusement”! First location in Chiba Prefecture! FIT-EASY Across Plaza Kitakashiwa store has held its soft opening!

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000838.000099487.html
- anchor: #n142740
- Companies mentioned: FIT-EASY

FIT-EASY has held a soft opening for its Across Plaza Kitakashiwa store, its first location in Chiba Prefecture. It aims to improve local well-being by combining AI healthcare with amusement facilities.

## Renaissance Resort Okinawa to host lunch buffet events at a restaurant overlooking the sea for Children’s Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001009.000024632.html
- anchor: #n142739
- Companies mentioned: ココ ガーデンリゾート オキナワ、アオアヲ ナルト リゾート、吉祥やまなか、かがり吉祥亭、吉祥CAREN、つるや吉祥亭

Renaissance Resort Okinawa will host lunch buffet events at a restaurant overlooking the sea to mark Children’s Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

## 株式会社Gloture holds closing sale at its official Amazon shop! Popular gadgets on sale at special prices of up to 50% off with coupon

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:00:02+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000002375.000032456.html
- anchor: #n142738
- Companies mentioned: 株式会社Gloture、Amazon

株式会社Gloture has started a closing sale at its official Amazon shop. Popular gadgets are on sale for up to 50% off.

## After cost performance and time performance comes “mental performance” — Japan’s first “School of Menpa” opens, recruiting cohort 1

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:59:06+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000002.000181629.html
- anchor: #n142752
- Companies mentioned: サンタの学校株式会社

サンタの学校株式会社 has opened Japan’s first “School of Menpa,” for adults to systematically learn about mental performance, and begun recruiting students for cohort 1.

## 【Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse】A colorful collection of stationery and accessories, including “Crayon-patterned Watches” in 100 colors! “TokiiRo pop up shop” opens for a limited time from April 13, 2026!

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:50:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000026.000151263.html
- anchor: #n142753
- Companies mentioned: タイムステーションNEO、眼鏡市場

The “TokiiRo pop up shop,” a collaboration store for accessories and watches, will open for a limited time at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse from April 13, 2026. Items for sale will include watches with crayon patterns.

## Uminaka Coffee Festival to be held!

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:19:37+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000734.000032901.html
- anchor: #n142731
- Companies mentioned: （海の中道海浜公園の管理運営団体）

An organization that manages and operates national parks and other sites has announced the Uminaka Coffee Festival.

## The sold-out Kyoho rosé sparkling wine “和愛（YAWARAI）” releases its 2025 vintage

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000008.000161070.html
- anchor: #n142728
- Companies mentioned: 巨峰ワイナリー

巨峰ワイナリー has released the 2025 vintage of “和愛（YAWARAI）,” its popular Kyoho rosé sparkling wine that sells out immediately.

## 【Oisix Niigata Albirex BC】Announcement of agreement with player Katsuki Matayoshi

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000071.000156814.html
- anchor: #n142727
- Companies mentioned: オイシックス・ラ・大地株式会社

Oisix Niigata Albirex BC, which competes in the professional baseball farm league, has announced an agreement with player Katsuki Matayoshi.

## This time, I’ll make every one of the traitors see hell! A hero who slew a god rewrites the future with the “weakest job” in “The Returned God Slayer Rises with the Weakest Job”

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:00:01+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000868.000003707.html
- anchor: #n142726
- Companies mentioned: 株式会社カカオピッコマ

株式会社カカオピッコマ has begun distributing a new manga, “The Returned God Slayer Rises with the Weakest Job.” The fantasy series centers on revenge and rising to the top.

## ITスキルやデジタルクリエイティブに特化したサンダーバード就労支援事業所「ラプラス」が群馬県前橋市に2026年8月1日開所予定

- Published: 2026-04-18T08:55:08+09:00
- Source: Japan | PR TIMES
- Original: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000004.000023402.html
- anchor: #n142729
- Companies mentioned: サンダーバード

“Laplace,” an employment support center specializing in IT skills and digital creative work, will open in Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, in August 2026.

## Hao-Yu Lee introduced as “from Taiwan” in MLB debut, goes 0-for-3

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:28:11+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aspt/202604180026.aspx
- anchor: #n142773
- Companies mentioned: 底特律老虎隊、波士頓紅襪隊

Taiwanese baseball player Hao-Yu Lee made his MLB debut, going hitless in 3 at-bats, but making solid contact. His team ultimately lost in extra innings.

## Trump says UFO records review found “interesting” documents, previews release soon

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:26:42+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180027.aspx
- anchor: #n142772
- Companies mentioned: 五角大廈

U.S. President Donald Trump said the government’s review of UFO-related records found “interesting” documents and previewed the release of the first batch of files soon.

## Could war bring back an inflation crisis? Statistics bureau breaks down price impacts

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:24:40+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/afe/202604180023.aspx
- anchor: #n142776
- Companies mentioned: 主計総処、星展集團、國際貨幣基金 (IMF)、世界銀行 (World Bank)、中央銀行、中央大學

主計総処 analyzed the possibility that the U.S.-Iran war could reignite an inflation crisis. Unlike the 2022 Russia-Ukraine war, the impact on prices this time is concentrated mainly in energy, and the government is seeking to curb price increases through supply-side measures. Experts, however, warn that government intervention could distort markets and cause long-term problems.

## 日本自衛隊戰機2025年緊急升空595次 6成針對中國

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:24:08+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180025.aspx
- anchor: #n142774
- Companies mentioned: 日本防衛省、中國、俄羅斯

日本防衛省公布數據顯示，2025年度航空自衛隊戰機緊急升空595次，其中約6成（366次）針對中國。年度內共發生1起侵犯領空事件，來自中國。

## Over 950,000 apply for real estate transaction alerts, helping thwart property fraud

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:13:24+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aipl/202604180022.aspx
- anchor: #n142777
- Companies mentioned: 內政部、地政事務所

內政部推出的「地籍異動即時通」服務，已有超過95萬人申請，成功協助民眾攔阻了多起不動產詐騙，避免數百萬元損失。

## 伊朗 Foreign Ministry: Enriched uranium will not be transferred anywhere

- Published: 2026-04-18T11:04:36+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180024.aspx
- anchor: #n142775
- Companies mentioned: 美國、伊朗、哥倫比亞廣播公司新聞網 (CBS News)、Axios

伊朗外交部駁斥美國總統川普關於伊朗同意轉移濃縮鈾的說法，強調濃縮鈾為伊朗國土神聖不可侵犯，絕不會轉移。發言人稱談判重點是結束戰爭與賠償，而非鈾轉移。

## Middle East war sends fuel prices soaring, Canada’s largest airline suspends 6 routes

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:55:29+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180021.aspx
- anchor: #n142762
- Companies mentioned: 加拿大航空 (Air Canada)、西捷航空 (WestJet)、德國漢莎航空 (Lufthansa)、英國易捷航空 (EasyJet)、匈牙利威茲航空 (Wizz Air)

Air Canada announced it would suspend 6 routes as the Middle East war drives up fuel prices. Experts say the fuel shortage crisis could be one of the most severe in aviation history. Other airlines are also adjusting their operations.

## New users keep calling old service office number with complaints; Chiang Wan-an: Call 1999

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:33:27+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aloc/202604180020.aspx
- anchor: #n142763
- Companies mentioned: 中華電信

Taipei City Councilor Liu Tsai-wei said residents have mistakenly called the service office number used when Chiang Wan-an was a legislator, leading to a steady stream of complaints. Chiang responded that people should call 1999 for city government matters.

## 6 Chinese naval vessels and 3 sorties by Chinese military aircraft near Taiwan; armed forces monitor activity

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:24:24+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aipl/202604180019.aspx
- anchor: #n142754
- Companies mentioned: 中国人民解放軍

According to the Ministry of National Defense, 6 Chinese vessels, 1 government vessel and 3 Chinese military aircraft were detected in the airspace around Taiwan between 6 a.m. yesterday and 6 a.m. today. The military is closely monitoring the situation and responding.

## 伊朗 calls Trump’s remarks false, says Strait of Hormuz will be closed again if ports are not unblocked

- Published: 2026-04-18T10:14:37+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180018.aspx
- anchor: #n142755
- Companies mentioned: X

Iran’s parliament speaker accused the U.S. president of being “dishonest” and warned that the Strait of Hormuz would be closed again if the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports continues. This could heighten geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and affect international energy supplies.

## Mazu pilgrimage tour sells out instantly; operator says domestic tourism must move beyond a “selling rooms” mindset

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:57:20+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/afe/202604180017.aspx
- anchor: #n142756
- Companies mentioned: 雄獅旅遊、鳳凰旅遊、六福集團、觀光署

雄獅旅遊 Managing Director Huang Hsin-chuan said the domestic tourism industry cannot remain focused solely on “selling rooms”; experiential products such as Mazu pilgrimage tours are needed to attract travelers.

## Trump says U.S. bars Israel from bombing Lebanon; Israeli forces remain in southern Lebanon for defense

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:54:18+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180016.aspx
- anchor: #n142732
- Companies mentioned: 路透社 (ロイター)、真主黨 (Hezbollah)

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States had barred Israel from carrying out further attacks on Lebanon. The Israeli military, meanwhile, continues to be stationed in southern Lebanon for defensive purposes.

## Pope warns AI misuse could fuel conflict as controversy over Trump’s “Jesus image” rages on

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:44:15+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180015.aspx
- anchor: #n142733
- Companies mentioned: 法新社 (AFP)

Pope Leo XIV, visiting Cameroon, warned that the rapid development of AI could fuel conflict and violence. His remarks followed controversy over an AI-generated “savior” image of U.S. President Donald Trump.

## Wu Der-rong: Scattered rain in northern and eastern areas, clearing from 4/19; another front expected next week

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:41:13+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/ahel/202604180014.aspx
- anchor: #n142734
- Companies mentioned: 中央気象署、中央大学、気象応用推広基金会、中央社

Weather expert Wu Derong forecast the latest weather changes in Taiwan. After localized rain today, skies will be clear through the 21st, but thunderstorms are expected from the afternoon of the 23rd as a new front moves in.

## Why go to Kenting when you can visit Okinawa? Tourism industry explains Japan’s “domestic tourism” trend

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:34:11+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/afe/202604180013.aspx
- anchor: #n142735
- Companies mentioned: Trip.com、雄獅旅遊、六福集團、中央社

A growing trend among Taiwanese travelers is to skip domestic trips, such as to Kenting, and repeatedly travel to Japan instead, treating it as a domestic destination because of the cost and quality of the experience.

## Trump says deal will include moving enriched uranium to U.S.; 伊朗 denies plans to ship it abroad

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:32:09+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180012.aspx
- anchor: #n142736
- Companies mentioned: 法新社 (AFP)、CNN

U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that a peace deal with Iran would include transferring enriched uranium to the United States, but Iran has strongly denied this.

## 英國國會 examines social resilience, in rare move inviting Taiwan’s representative to the U.K. to testify

- Published: 2026-04-18T09:27:43+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aipl/202604180011.aspx
- anchor: #n142730
- Companies mentioned: 英國國會、北約 (NATO)

The UK Parliament’s Joint Committee on National Security Strategy has launched an inquiry into “societal resilience” and, in an unusual move, invited Taiwan’s top diplomat, Representative to the UK Yao Chin-hsiang, to testify at a hearing.

## Taiwanese semiconductor company sets up in Czechia, strengthens cybersecurity and builds a non-China supply chain

- Published: 2026-04-18T08:51:20+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/afe/202604180010.aspx
- anchor: #n142724

台灣振生半導體公司 has established a European research and development hub in Brno, Czechia, and signed a memorandum of strategic cooperation with 捷克國家半導體聚落（CNSC）. The partnership aims to advance semiconductor security testing and international safety standards, strengthening the economic security of Taiwan and Czechia. 振生半導體 aims to build a “non-red supply chain” through a “Czech design, Taiwan manufacturing” model.

## Good Morning World》 Preventive detention possible for offenses including drunk driving and sexual assault of minors; teacher cleared and reinstated, with allowances paid retroactively

- Published: 2026-04-18T08:50:32+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/ahel/202604185001.aspx
- anchor: #n142723

Taiwan has amended its Code of Criminal Procedure and Teachers’ Act, including preventive detention for drunk driving and sex crimes and improved terms for teachers while suspended. On the international front, the U.S. Congress is urging passage of a special arms procurement bill for Taiwan, while China is stepping up information warfare against Taiwan. A front is expected to pass on the 18th, with conditions improving over the weekend. Economically, Taiwan’s growth forecast for this year was revised up to 7.22%, though inflation concerns remain. China’s property market has declined for 47 consecutive months, and reports also covered the discovery of historic structures and a range of other news.

## Brazilian President Lula visits Europe, signs critical minerals memorandum with Spain

- Published: 2026-04-18T08:34:01+09:00
- Source: Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
- Original: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202604180009.aspx
- anchor: #n142725

Brazilian President Lula began a visit to Europe, meeting first with Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez in Spain and signing a memorandum of cooperation on “critical minerals,” including lithium and nickel. The visit signals Brazil’s intention not only to export raw materials but also to build a complete industrial chain and play a more active role in global mineral diplomacy. President Lula is making important diplomatic moves on both the economic and political fronts ahead of the general election in October.