Strait of Hormuz open but not passable: About 20 ships try to transit, most turn back
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Iran announced that the Strait of Hormuz was fully open to commercial shipping, sending oil prices lower and stocks higher. However, after about 20 ships tried to leave the Persian Gulf, most stopped near the Strait of Hormuz and turned back. Shipping companies remain cautious, concerned about safety risks such as mines. Iranian officials said all commercial vessels may pass, but must coordinate their sailing plans with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
New Taipei police arrest 85 in crackdown on 20 cases, bust pharmacy extortion scheme
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
New Taipei City police carried out a coordinated crackdown on organized crime, arresting a total of 85 people and solving a case in which a criminal group extorted money from a pharmacy. Police seized firearms and evidence, and referred the 5 suspects, including the alleged ringleader, for investigation.
Magnitude-5.0 earthquake estimated in Japan’s Nagano, no tsunami threat
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An earthquake estimated at magnitude 5.0 struck northern Nagano Prefecture, Japan, registering a maximum seismic intensity of upper 5 in Omachi. There is no tsunami threat. The government set up a liaison office at the Prime Minister’s Office and is gathering information.
明華園 opens theater arts center, bringing contemporary energy to opera in Tainan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s renowned theater troupe 明華園 has established the Theater Nest Arts Center in Tainan City as a cultural hub. It aims to pass on traditional opera while infusing it with contemporary energy and nurturing a new generation of opera talent.
New York World Cup train fares surge 10-fold; 4800 for round trip to stadium sparks debate
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Train fares for the World Cup in New York have surged 10-fold to 150 dollars, drawing criticism from the public and New York’s governor. FIFA countered that it was unreasonable to expect it to cover transportation costs.
Suns’ Green delivers signature performance to topple Warriors; Thunder await in playoffs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In a game for a Western Conference NBA playoff berth, the フェニックス・サンズ beat the ゴールデンステート・ウォリアーズ 111-96, powered by Jalen Green’s 36 points, and clinched a playoff spot. The Suns will enter as the No. 8 seed and face defending champions オクラホマシティ・サンダー in their next game.
Hong Kong doctor Kwok Ka-kei, stripped of license over primary election case, says helping others remains his mission
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hong Kong doctor Kwok Ka-ki was found guilty in the primary election case under the National Security Law, and the 香港医務委員会 permanently revoked his medical license. He said he accepted the decision but vowed to continue helping people.
Dajia Mazu pilgrimage enters day 2; anticipated meeting of two Mazu statues falls through
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On the 2nd day of the Dajia Mazu pilgrimage, the Mazu procession is scheduled to pass through Longjing, Dadu and Wuri districts in Taichung City before stopping at Nanyao Temple in Changhua City. However, the eagerly anticipated “Double Mazu Gathering” did not take place because Baishatun Mazu took a different return route. Police have deployed a drone unit to manage traffic and ensure safety.
Hualien whale-watching season gets underway, operators pledge to create whale-friendly environment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Whale-watching season has begun in Hualien County, Taiwan, and the 海洋保育署 and tour operators have declared a “whale-friendly whale-watching” initiative that takes whales and dolphins into consideration.
New Taipei Tung Blossom Festival opens, marking its 29th year of celebrating Hakka culture alongside the flowers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The New Taipei City Hakka Tung Blossom Festival opened in Tucheng District, marking its 29th year. Wu Ke-neng, chief secretary of the Hakka Affairs Council, stressed that the event aims to pass on the Hakka language and culture. Mayor Hou Yu-ih and Liu Kuan-yin, director of the New Taipei City Hakka Affairs Department, attended. The festival features ecological tours, arts performances, Hakka cuisine and craft experiences, as well as 33 hiking sessions.
International journal says shrimp virus may cause eye disease; medical society says no confirmed cases in Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The international journal Nature Microbiology reported that the covert mortality nodavirus (CMNV) in farmed shrimp may infect humans and cause eye disease. But the Uveitis Division of the Taiwan Society of Macular Diseases said there are currently no confirmed cases in Taiwan and fresh food poses no risk. The society stressed that Taiwan’s medical system is well-equipped and the public need not panic. The Centers for Disease Control and the Ministry of Agriculture are working across agencies to monitor the situation and will establish CMNV PCR testing capacity.
A car crashed into a cafe in Toufen City, Miaoli County, killing a customer. The accident occurred at about 7 a.m. Police are investigating the exact cause and have ruled out drunk driving.
Chiayi City high-altitude swing event tests skill and courage; Japanese Kumamoto education delegation observes
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chiayi City held a high-altitude swing festival, with competitors displaying skill and courage 12 meters above the ground and drawing a Japanese educational delegation from Kumamoto to observe. The tradition combines religious ceremony with local tourism, demonstrating the vitality of cultural heritage.
Japan and Australia sign contract for new warships, effectively exporting frigates overseas
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japan and Australia signed a contract to jointly develop new warships for the Australian Navy. The deal will mark Japan’s first export of frigates. Improved Mogami-class frigates built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will replace Australia’s aging fleet, with the first vessel expected to enter service in 2030.
Marines to fully switch to new vests designed for water survival and amphibious landings
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Marine Corps has adopted new tactical vests designed for ‘water survival’ and ‘landing operations’ to improve amphibious combat effectiveness. The vests combine a lightweight design with the MOLLE system to improve comfort, protection and mobility during missions.
Tainan’s Liuying Organic Fruit and Vegetable Festival opens, showcasing seasonal produce
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tainan’s Liuying Organic Fruit and Vegetable Festival opened at the Taikang Organic Agriculture Zone. Activities include farming experiences, DIY crafts and a market, giving visitors a taste of organic farming and seasonal produce. The zone is the nation’s first publicly initiated, privately operated organic agriculture zone.
Education Ministry grants support college students serving at elementary and junior high schools, leading clubs with their expertise
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Through its ‘Program to Promote the Development of Elementary and Junior High School Clubs,’ the Ministry of Education encourages university clubs to serve at elementary and junior high schools. In the 114th year, it provided grants to 45 colleges and universities and 147 clubs, serving 7468 elementary and junior high school students to foster well-rounded development.
Extension of Freeway 61 south to Kaohsiung moves forward as Highway Bureau begins comprehensive planning
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Executive Yuan approved a feasibility study for extending Freeway 61 south to Kaohsiung. The Highway Bureau is planning a route of about 48 kilometers to complete the western expressway network, expand coverage and build a more comprehensive transportation backbone for the coastal areas of Tainan and Kaohsiung.
Education Ministry funds local advisory groups, combines AI with teaching of new immigrant languages
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ministry of Education is funding local advisory groups and incorporating AI technology and digital literacy to improve the quality of new immigrant language instruction and teacher efficiency.
Trump: Iran ports blockade will continue if no deal is reached; ceasefire may not be extended
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Trump said the blockade of Iranian ports would continue if no deal is reached with Iran, and that the ceasefire agreement might not be extended. He said he had received ‘good news’ but did not elaborate.
Woman duped into money-laundering role while trying to recover scam losses; judge finds she was victimized twice and acquits her
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A woman trying to recover money lost to a scam believed a dubious company that claimed it could hack the criminal group. After she provided her bank account, it was used to make her an accomplice in money laundering. The judge ruled that she had been deceived twice and lacked criminal intent to commit fraud or launder money, and acquitted her.
Japanese warship passes through Taiwan Strait; US expert says it may be response to Chinese airspace restrictions in East China Sea
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer “雷” passed through the Taiwan Strait. An expert at a U.S. think tank said the transit may have been a response to airspace restrictions China imposed in the East China Sea, and was fully consistent with international law. China’s Foreign Ministry protested to Japan, while Taiwan’s Defense Ministry continues to monitor the situation. This was the 4th transit of the Taiwan Strait by a Japanese vessel.
UK and France lead escort mission to safeguard freedom of navigation in Strait of Hormuz
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The United Kingdom and France announced plans to lead a multinational escort mission to ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The mission will be entirely defensive and is scheduled to deploy after lasting peace has been achieved in the region. The plan was confirmed at an international conference co-hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. The United States and Iran did not attend.
At G20 finance chiefs’ meeting, Pan Gongsheng says China remains committed to domestic-demand-led growth
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting, People’s Bank of China Governor Pan Gongsheng said China would remain committed to domestic demand-led growth during the 15th Five-Year Plan period and implement measures to boost consumption and moderately ease monetary policy. The meeting discussed the global economic outlook, growth and imbalances. Pan said protectionism and flaws in the international monetary system were exacerbating economic imbalances.
Farmed shrimp virus suspected of crossing species to infect humans; CDC says domestic risk extremely low
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Regarding suspected human infections from China’s farmed shrimp virus (CMNV), Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control assessed the risk of domestic transmission as extremely low. It will continue monitoring international outbreaks and urged the public to observe food safety.
Some freeway ramps to close over Labor Day holiday; Highway Bureau urges motorists to take note
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 交通部高速公路局 announced traffic controls, including the closure of some highway entrance ramps, to ease congestion during the Labor Day holiday period beginning May 1.
Kaohsiung partners with NTU on PILOT course to foster interpersonal skills and psychological resilience
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kaohsiung City Education Bureau and National Taiwan University are partnering to introduce the PILOT course at 13 elementary schools. It aims to develop students’ psychological resilience, interpersonal skills and ability to adapt to daily life.
Nation’s largest forest market opens on the 24th, highlighting the value of sustainable use
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The country’s largest “Forest Market” will be held at Taipei Expo Park in Taipei starting on the 24th. More than 50 brands will gather to exhibit and sell locally produced wood products and showcase achievements in the forest-based economy.
Trump sends a string of optimistic signals, but his account does not align with Iran’s
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Trump and Iran have offered conflicting accounts of the nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has struck an optimistic tone, but Iran has only acknowledged reopening shipping and rejected most of his claims, showing that negotiations remain uncertain.
Customer finds insect leg in ice cream; seller apologizes, Taipei City orders improvements after inspection
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A customer found an insect leg in ice cream at a 31 Ice Cream shop in Taipei’s Zhongshan District. The operator acknowledged a lapse in management, apologized, discarded the affected product and issued a full refund. The Taipei City Health Department inspected the shop and cited the lack of handwashing signs and incomplete health examination records, ordering improvements. The operator said it would conduct a “清検專案” at all locations to prevent a recurrence.
‘Underground arms factory’ found in Changhua optical shop as owner pursues dream of building remote-controlled aircraft
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hong Shang-ren, owner of an eyeglasses shop in Changhua City, has built a secret “underground arsenal” in the shop’s basement, making detailed, hand-built radio-controlled fighter planes to fulfill a childhood dream.
Strait of Hormuz crisis offers lessons as geopolitical risks in Strait of Malacca draw focus
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Against the backdrop of the Strait of Hormuz crisis, attention is turning to the geopolitical risks around the Strait of Malacca, a key artery for Asia’s energy supplies. The United States is moving to strengthen surveillance of the strait through a defense agreement with Indonesia.
US extends exemption from sanctions on Russian oil, allows seaborne sales
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. government extended a sanctions waiver for the maritime sale of Russian oil by 1 month, through May 16. The move is believed to be aimed at curbing surging crude oil prices.
Councillors urge Taipei to establish pet-only crematorium; city government says it will assess feasibility
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A city councilor called on Taipei to plan dedicated pet facilities when building new environmentally friendly cremation furnaces, to address the growing number of pet dogs and cats and existing cremation demand. The Animal Protection Office said it would discuss the feasibility with the Mortuary Services Office, but regulations involved require careful deliberation.
Hao-Yu Lee has a task in the majors; Tigers manager says he should face left-handed pitchers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The デトロイト・タイガース promoted Taiwanese infielder Li Hao-yu to the major leagues. The move is said to be primarily intended to counter left-handed pitchers on opposing teams.
Taiwanese woman arrested on suspicion of drug smuggling; amount seized sets new record for Japanese police
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 50-year-old Taiwanese woman was arrested for allegedly trying to smuggle about 4 kilograms of etomidate, known as the “zombie drug,” from Thailand into Japan through Haneda Airport. It is the largest seizure of the drug in Japan to date.
Middle East War, Day 49: Hormuz Strait reopens, Lebanon ceasefire; latest developments at a glance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Middle East war entered its 49th day, with signs that Iran and the United States had reached a peace agreement with “no outstanding issues.” The Strait of Hormuz has reopened to commercial shipping, and Lebanon has also reached a ceasefire agreement. Oil prices plunged on the news, while European and U.S. stocks surged.
As hopes emerge for easing Middle East conflict, experts estimate the New Taiwan dollar will shake off its slump and stabilize at 31 in the second quarter
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As the Middle East conflict eases and global risk appetite rebounds, the New Taiwan dollar is expected to stabilize at 31 in the second quarter. Experts say that if the situation in the Middle East does not worsen and the U.S. Federal Reserve shifts toward looser policy, this would support the New Taiwan dollar’s appreciation, though room for a major breakout is limited.
Problems keep emerging at Kaohsiung’s first social housing building; tenants can register for inspections and maintenance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Water leaks and false alarms have been frequent at Kaohsiung’s first social housing complex, Kaixuan Qingshu. The Urban Development Bureau has begun registering residents for drainpipe inspections and maintenance work.
Public Television Service board deadlock; Li Yuan says public media are needed more than ever amid rampant disinformation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Public Television Service board review committee members resigned, creating a deadlock. Culture Minister Li Yuan stressed the importance of public media in an era of disinformation and said he would uphold the system to ensure the PTS board election proceeds smoothly. He criticized opposition parties for causing problems with the law amendment.
A man who shoplifted food at a convenience store in Nantou was arrested on suspicion of robbery after struggling with the store manager and others while fleeing.
China Coast Guard says it rescued a “Taiwan, China-registered fishing boat”; Coast Guard Administration refutes claim
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 台湾海巡署 disputed a statement by the 中国海警局 that it had “rescued” the crew of a Taiwanese fishing boat that caught fire and sank near Diaoyutai (the Senkaku Islands), saying the crew had been rescued by another vessel.
Can you eat it even under the “Edicts on Compassion for Living Things”!? The ultimate vegan menu, “Tokugawa Tsunayoshi Mapo Tofu Set,” is now available from 罪無き麻婆豆腐.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Vegan mapo tofu specialty shop “罪無き麻婆豆腐” has launched a new “Tokugawa Tsunayoshi Mapo Tofu Set.” It is offering “immersive mapo” that combines comedy sketches with a course meal.
[3-minute walk from Inagekaigan Station] Storage facility “スペラボ稲毛海岸駅前店” to open on May 1, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
スペラボ稲毛海岸駅前店 will open on May 1, 2026. A real estate technology company has developed an investment product that uses vacant homes and aims to solve social issues.
Notice: Iran’s national team will not participate in ダイセル Blind Soccer Week 2026 in Umekita.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
It has been announced that Iran’s national team will not participate in ダイセル Blind Soccer Week 2026. JBFA runs outreach activities and educational programs with the aim of creating a society where people with visual impairments and those without disabilities coexist.
[DPC KOBE] Yuki Goto to appear at pickleball practice sessions for beginners to intermediate players in the latter half of April
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
DPC KOBE will welcome Yuki Goto for pickleball practice sessions for beginners to intermediate players in the latter half of April. The organizers aim to promote health through sports and help realize a sustainable society.
[Newly revamped prep school specializing in private medical school admissions] Curriculum for 29 private medical schools completely revamped using AI and admissions data
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Study Chain Co., a prep school specializing in private medical school admissions, has completely revamped its curriculum for 29 schools based on AI and admissions data. The company is an EDTECH firm seeking to maximize the potential of education and learning.
“Nanatsuboshi Yokocho Backstreet Ramen Terrace” to open for business on May 1 (Fri.)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Nanatsuboshi Yokocho Backstreet Ramen Terrace” will open for business on May 1 (Fri.). It is a new facility in the “Hokkaido Ballpark F Village” area, which opened in March 2023.
Umihara and Laggia of e-sports team “REJECT”’s fighting game division to compete in “Evo Legends Live”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Umihara and Laggia of e-sports team “REJECT” will compete in “Evo Legends Live.” REJECT is a company with diversified businesses in the e-sports sector.
New releases from “野いちごジュニア文庫,” a heart-pounding, swoon-worthy label for girls in elementary and middle school, go on sale April 20, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
スターサンド will release new books on April 20, 2026, through “野いちごジュニア文庫,” a label for girls in elementary and middle school. The company also operates a novel-posting site and runs media businesses.
Rain or shine, enjoy a swishy sound that makes your heart flutter in every moment. “YURUGI” will be available in limited quantities from 12:00 on April 18.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“YURUGI,” a brand run by タナカライフスタイル, will offer a highly customizable sweatshirt set-up exclusively by made-to-order sales in limited quantities starting April 18.
Announcement of contract renewal with player 神 巧也 for the 2026-2027 season
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
T.T彩たま has announced the contract renewal of player 神巧也 for the 2026-2027 season. This is an important personnel move as the team pursues its goals of contributing to the local community and becoming the best in the world.
[Notice of enrollment fee waiver + half-price first-month tuition campaign] 佐賀大合格特化塾 is offering a campaign waiving the enrollment fee and cutting first-month tuition in half through April 30, 2026.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
佐賀大合格特化塾, operated by スタディチェーン株式会社, is offering a campaign waiving the enrollment fee and cutting first-month tuition in half through April 30, 2026.
[New slogan announced] 鳥取大合格特化塾 launches its drive to help 90 students pass, with the slogan “If you can’t win on quantity, surpass them with quality.”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
鳥取大合格特化塾, operated by スタディチェーン株式会社, has announced its new slogan, “If you can’t win on quantity, surpass them with quality,” and launched its drive to help 90 students pass.
To celebrate the release of Volume 5 of “人の余命で青春するな”! For 3 days only, read all chapters through Volume 4 for free on “マンガPark,” starting April 18 (Saturday)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To celebrate the release of Volume 5 of the comic “人の余命で青春するな,” the manga app “マンガPark” will offer all chapters through Volume 4 for free for 3 days starting April 18.
Turning the “invisible burden of housework and childcare” into smiles with karuta
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
An NPO in Kobe City has created and unveiled a set of karuta cards to turn the “invisible burden of housework and childcare” into smiles. A diverse group of experts has come together to tackle social issues.