エイチ・シー・ネットワークス is a network integration company providing high-quality, reliable networks. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience, it offers one-stop solutions in networking, security, visual communications and total management services. This announcement concerns its support for para-athletes.
[Subsidies of up to 4.5 million yen] Certified as an eligible tool under the “Digitalization and AI Adoption Subsidy 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A real estate technology company with 28 years in business has been certified for an eligible tool under the “Digitalization and AI Adoption Subsidy 2026,” which provides subsidies of up to 4.5 million yen. The certification will help drive DX and workplace reform at real estate companies across Japan.
Yen stablecoin “JPYC” raises an additional 2.8 billion yen in Series B second close
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JPYC株式会社 has raised an additional 2.8 billion yen in the second close of its Series B round for its yen stablecoin “JPYC.” In August 2025, it became possible to issue yen stablecoins as a registered funds transfer service provider for the first time in Japan, advancing digital finance innovation.
クレディセゾン and コインチェック sign business partnership agreement in the crypto-asset sector
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
クレディセゾン and コインチェック have formed a business partnership in the crypto-asset sector. The companies will leverage クレディセゾン’s financial expertise and customer base to create new value through collaboration with コインチェック and address customer needs.
“Allamanda Chapel,” the starting point for resort weddings on Okinawa’s Miyakojima, to be renovated in January 2027 after 17 years
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Allamanda Chapel,” which has operated on Miyakojima, Okinawa, for 17 years, will reopen after renovations in January 2027. The company, which began with its founder’s spirit of volunteerism, has supported weddings for more than 1 million couples.
New original illustrated goods featuring Ginpachi-sensei after school, from the TV anime “Class 3-Z Ginpachi-sensei”! [COSPA Inc.]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
New original illustrated merchandise featuring Ginpachi-sensei after school, from the TV anime “Class 3-Z Ginpachi-sensei,” is now available from COSPA Inc. The launch aims to maximize the value of character entertainment.
A selection of shareholder benefits from 85 companies announced again this year! Local specialties, lodging and leisure, gift certificates—and 26 new companies join
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The shareholder benefits offered by 85 companies through PR TIMES have been announced, with 26 new companies joining. The program provides a range of options, including local specialties and lodging and leisure, and reflects the company’s goal of serving as an information infrastructure and its push for global expansion.
Taking place this weekend! Vendors confirmed for the 6th Imo Fest at Nagoya Oasis 21, April 25–26, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Vendors have been confirmed for the 6th Imo Fest, taking place at Nagoya Oasis 21 on April 25–26, 2026. The event will give a company that provides community-based support for people with mental and intellectual disabilities an opportunity to deepen its ties with the community by making roasted sweet potatoes at a Type B work facility.
【Caregiving DX】Edogawa Ward achieves a 62% adoption rate for its “Care Plan Data Collaboration System” — realizes Japan’s highest adoption level※1 among cities with populations of 100,000 or more, and quantitatively demonstrates the average monthly reduction in administrative work
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Edogawa Ward has achieved a 62% adoption rate for the “Care Plan Data Collaboration System,” realizing the highest adoption level in Japan among cities with populations of 100,000 or more. This is an achievement of the SCOP smart caregiving platform, provided by a corporation established by 社会福祉法人善光会, and it quantitatively demonstrates the average monthly reduction in administrative work.
newmo selected with 堺市 as a national “Priority Region for the Commercialization of Autonomous Driving for Social Implementation”; autonomous taxi demonstration tests to begin in late April
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
newmo, together with 堺市, has been selected as a national “Priority Region for the Commercialization of Autonomous Driving for Social Implementation” and will begin demonstration tests of autonomous taxis in late April. This is an important step toward the social implementation of autonomous driving services.
株式会社フェリエスト announces its new listing on 東京証券取引所 TOKYO PRO Market
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社フェリエスト has newly listed on 東京証券取引所 TOKYO PRO Market. The company provides comprehensive SNS marketing support, from strategy design through execution, and has a track record of working with more than 500 companies. With this listing, it aims to further expand its business.
<Deadline approaching>西部ガス runs a campaign for its “SAIBU NET 光” internet service, offering a drawing for miles worth ¥100,000
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
西部ガス is running a campaign for its “SAIBU NET 光” internet service, offering miles worth ¥100,000. The deadline is approaching, as the campaign aims to encourage subscriptions.
A cute long-tailed tit greets you every day♪ A soft, soothing doormat for your entryway
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A new doormat featuring a soft, soothing design inspired by the popular wild bird known as the long-tailed tit is now available. The product is part of an effort to promote a comfortable lifestyle through beauty, health and household goods.
【Reducing fatigue among hotel employees】アルケリス to exhibit for the first time at the Kanto Hotel and Ryokan Industry IT & Renovation Exhibition and Business Meeting
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アルケリス will exhibit its product “アルケリス,” which helps reduce fatigue from standing, for the first time at the Kanto Hotel and Ryokan Industry IT & Renovation Exhibition and Business Meeting. The company aims to reduce the burden on hotel employees.
<First for a regional bank> Launch of an “Automatic Deposit” service that transfers a fixed amount each month from an account in the customer’s own name at another bank to an account at this bank
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ふくおかフィナンシャルグループ(FFG) has launched a new service that automatically transfers a fixed amount each month from a customer’s own-name account at another bank to an account at its own bank. This is a first for a regional bank and will significantly reduce the effort customers spend moving funds.
【Survey on vegetables】Just over 60% of people eat dishes made with vegetables every day. “Cabbage,” “onions,” “potatoes,” “tomatoes” and “daikon radish” are among the most popular vegetables
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
マイボイスコム株式会社 conducted a survey on vegetables. It found that just over 60% of people eat dishes made with vegetables every day, and that cabbage and onions are among the most popular vegetables.
3 years since starting a side business selling canelés, with cumulative sales topping 100,000. The power of “unpretentious essentials,” as proven by Hacchobori-born Matsui no Canelé
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Canelé specialty shop “マツイノカヌレ東京本店” has topped 100,000 in cumulative sales 3 years after starting as a side business, winning customers over with unpretentious essentials. In June 2025, it opened its main store in Hatchobori, Tokyo, and also offers in-store sales, nationwide delivery and wholesale.
【HARE株式会社】朝日不動産, which receives HR support, ranks for the first time in the “Mynavi-Nikkei 2027 Graduate Employment Popularity Ranking (Hokuriku Region)” — employer branding that turns regional companies into “employers of choice”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
HARE株式会社 is an HR support company based in Fukuoka. 朝日不動産, which it supports, has ranked for the first time in the Hokuriku Region’s employment popularity ranking. This is a successful example of a regional company becoming an “employer of choice” through employer branding.
New variable life insurance product added to the lineup: “Variable Whole Life”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
エヌエヌ生命保険株式会社 announced the launch of “Variable Whole Life,” a new addition to its variable insurance lineup. As a supporter of small and medium-sized businesses, it helps them achieve stability and growth.
New collaborative products from Smartshake, the shaker specialist brand sold around the world! 11 items featuring SpongeBob, Looney Tunes, Superman, TMNT, rock bands and more, all launching at once!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Smartshake, a shaker specialist brand, has launched 11 new products in collaborations with SpongeBob, Superman and others.
BEY to hold solo exhibition “THIS IS WAMERICAN” in Tokyo for the first time in about 1 year, showcasing the largest-scale exhibition and greatest number of works to date
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Artist BEY will hold the solo exhibition “THIS IS WAMERICAN” in Tokyo, the artist’s first exhibition there in about 1 year. The event is set to be the largest-scale exhibition to date, featuring the greatest number of works.
【株式会社foxcale】Launches original report, “Trends and Analysis of the Reality of Fraud Investigations at Listed Companies,” based on data from 239 timely disclosures
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社foxcale has begun offering its original report, “Trends and Analysis of the Reality of Fraud Investigations at Listed Companies,” based on data from 239 timely disclosures. The report contributes to improving corporate governance.
6th “Surron Cup” one-make race confirmed, bringing the fun of electric off-roading to life — a new riding culture that continues to grow
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The official Japanese distributor of the electric motorcycle “Surron” has confirmed the 6th “Surron Cup,” a one-make race celebrating the fun of electric off-roading.
A traditional house on the Chirimen Kaido in Yosano, Kyoto Prefecture, restored as “暇家 KAYA,” an exclusive-use inn themed around “暇(いとま)”; opening May 1, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
地域京都丹後企画 will restore a traditional house on the Chirimen Kaido in Yosano, Kyoto Prefecture, and open “暇家 KAYA,” an exclusive-use inn, on May 1, 2026.
Talk-variety show “Mari Yaguchi & Laland’s Nishida: ‘Save every day, choose and win! What is Odds Park’s new Ticket Challenge campaign?!’” to be livestreamed on April 23
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
オッズ・パーク株式会社 will livestream a talk-variety show explaining its new campaign, featuring Mari Yaguchi and Nishida of Laland, on April 23.
【New service launch】アズーム launches “Smart Meeting Room Pro,” a reservation system specializing in the operation of rental conference rooms and halls
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Azoom has released “Smart Meeting Room Pro,” a reservation system specializing in the operation of rental meeting rooms and halls. It leverages expertise and a database from its monthly parking lot business to support the effective use of real estate.
INI’s Kyosuke Fujimaki talks for 4 days on FM NACK5’s “ALL The Feels”! He introduces a playlist he created and the 8TH SINGLE “PULSE”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
INI’s Kyosuke Fujimaki will appear on FM NACK5’s program “ALL The Feels.” Over 4 days, he will introduce a playlist he created and the 8TH SINGLE “PULSE.”
TV anime broadcast to begin in July 2026! Same-day release of the novel and comics for “Heroine? Saint? No, I’m an All-Works Maid (Proud)!” confirmed! Reservations for a super-value price pack open today, 4/20
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TOブックス announced that the TV anime “Heroine? Saint? No, I’m an All-Works Maid (Proud)!” will begin airing in July 2026. The novel and comics will also be released at the same time.
【2 times the chance to win Yamazaki 18 Years Old!!】Latest whisky lottery goes on sale April 20 to mark 55,000 sets sold
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アップライジング Inc. will launch the latest whisky lottery on April 20, with the chance of winning Suntory’s “Yamazaki 18 Years Old” increased by 2 times to mark sales of 55,000 sets.
For dental treatment without regrets: As demand for “cosmetic dentistry” grows, some people are unsure about unclear costs and how to choose a treatment
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社シアン aims to address concerns over unclear costs and treatment options amid growing demand for cosmetic dentistry, through platforms including “Kirei Repo,” a reservation platform for cosmetic medicine and cosmetic dentistry.
【New brand】“Focusing on the ‘original pink’ that had been sleeping”: Melanin tone-care program “AMAZE PINK (Amaze Pink)” launches
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A comprehensive beauty company has announced “AMAZE PINK,” a new brand focused on melanin tone. It is proposing a new skincare program that draws on expertise cultivated in the professional market.
4 years since self-photo studio “PICmii” launched: “4th Anniversary Thank You Campaign 2,” held in Shinjuku and Shibuya to show appreciation to approximately 2万 customer groups
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社フォトクリエイト will hold Campaign 2 in Shinjuku and Shibuya to mark the 4th anniversary of self-photo studio “PICmii” and thank the approximately 2万 customer groups who have used it.
For those who have yet to give a Mother’s Day gift: EC mall “あるる” unveils a feature on gifts that are sure to delight this year
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
EC mall “あるる” has unveiled a gift feature for Mother’s Day. Through content that conveys the thoughts of producers and craftspeople, it offers ideas for choosing thoughtful gifts.
RoomClip unveils “Black Room” and “White Room” at “TOKYOROOMS Exhibition: 40 Rooms, 40 Ways of Living,” inspired by analysis of 6.5 million user-submitted photos
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ルームクリップ株式会社 has unveiled “Black Room” and “White Room” at the “TOKYOROOMS Exhibition,” created through analysis of 6.5 million user-submitted photos. Data-driven interior design proposals are drawing attention.
【Tokyo Great Bears】Announcement of Wataru Taniguchi’s departure
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Wataru Taniguchi’s departure from professional volleyball team Tokyo Great Bears has been announced by 株式会社グレートベアーズ, the team’s operating company. Attention is focused on the team’s future lineup and the player’s next move.
Korean idol lemon water? Korean inner-care brand WHOLE BERRY makes its Japan debut!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Korean inner-care brand “WHOLE BERRY” has made its first entry into Japan. The company was established in 2008 and has led the Japanese market in Korean cosmetics import agency services since 2011; it also operates COSME Re:MAKE, with 11 stores.
A complete analysis of 25 years of Kanazawa University exam trends. In 2027, secure your acceptance from Kaga.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
EDTECH company Study Chain has completed a comprehensive analysis of 25 years of past exam trends at 金沢大学. It will support applicants from the Kaga region seeking admission in 2027.
【M&A deal completed】Support for the M&A of らくらケア, a Sapporo-based nursing care facility operator, and 地域ヘルスケア連携基盤, a management support company
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
M&A brokerage firm facilitated RakuRa Care (Sapporo nursing care) and Chiiki Health Care Renkei Kiban (management support) acquisition, supporting growth in Japan's healthcare sector.
KURADASHI begins recruiting students for “Kuradashi Challenge,” a social contribution internship to be held in 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kuradashi, which aims to reduce food waste, has begun recruiting students for “Kuradashi Challenge,” a social contribution internship to be held in 2026.
【109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku】Special screening of the “Star Wars” series to mark the 3rd anniversary and the May 22 (Fri.) release of “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku announced a special screening of the “Star Wars” series to mark its 3rd anniversary and the release of a new film.
Haguroyama Campground at 休暇村 Shonai-Haguro opens on April 25. Off-season rates have also been introduced, making visits more affordable. The organization operates resort hotels, campgrounds and ski resorts across Japan and offers nature activities.
Tokyo’s “APT Women” program to promote the growth of women-led startups opens recruitment for its 2026 training course!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has begun accepting applications for the 2026 edition of “APT Women,” a program to promote the growth of women-led startups. It aims to develop women entrepreneurs through initiatives including the “Corporate Accelerator,” which supports business co-creation with major companies, and the “SAAI” community.
POP UP SHOP for the TV anime “Shunkashūtō Daikōsha: Haru no Mai” to open in Osaka and Tokyo!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A POP UP SHOP for the TV anime “Shunkashūtō Daikōsha: Haru no Mai” will be held in Osaka and Tokyo. Fans can enjoy the world of the series through character merchandise and events.
New “Ao no Kanata no Four Rhythm” merchandise! “Acrylic Tsumerare” featuring 4 characters, including Asuka Kurashina, arrives from Nijigen Cospa!【株式会社コスパ】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社コスパ is releasing “Acrylic Tsumerare” merchandise for the popular game “Ao no Kanata no Four Rhythm.” The products feature 4 characters, including Asuka Kurashina, and aim to appeal to fans and expand revenue through IP.
[Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Tenjin] A much-anticipated “Ochazuke Bar” is coming to the breakfast buffet on May 1, 2026! Create your own original ochazuke with freshly cooked clay-pot rice and carefully selected ingredients, bringing the bounty of Kyushu to every bowl.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Tenjin will add an “Ochazuke Bar” to its breakfast buffet starting May 1, 2026. Using ingredients from Kyushu, it will offer guests a unique dining experience.
We are providing an update on the distribution status of the “ProP biz emergency earthquake early warning service” regarding the earthquake that struck northern Nagano Prefecture at around 13:20 on April 18, with a maximum seismic intensity of 5-upper.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “ProP biz emergency earthquake early warning service” was reported to have operated normally during the April 18 earthquake in northern Nagano Prefecture, which reached a maximum seismic intensity of 5-upper.
Beta version of “SukuKyari,” a platform specializing in teacher recruitment, released
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The beta version of “SukuKyari,” a platform specializing in teacher recruitment that supports schools with hiring, public relations and training, has been released. It aims to help realize future-focused learning environments.
Yamada Nanpei × Hidaka Banri × Takao Shigeru: Joint original-art exhibition celebrating their years as artists opens at the Former Ozaki Teodora Residence on June 6!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A joint original-art exhibition celebrating the careers of 3 artists, Yamada Nanpei, Hidaka Banri and Takao Shigeru, will open at the Former Ozaki Teodora Residence on June 6. The event pays tribute to their work and offers fans a new experience.
[New podcast] Supporting the planning and production of a podcast marking the 5th anniversary of ampule, Trenders’ beauty-focused innovation firm
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Cross Media Group will support the planning and production of a podcast marking the 5th anniversary of ampule, Trenders’ beauty-focused innovation firm. The initiative showcases the company’s capabilities in marketing support and digital businesses.
[Limited time] Indulge in Hokkaido-grown asparagus! Hokkaido fresh pasta specialty shop Mugi to Tamago gives its all-time No. 1 dish a makeover. A golden new pasta dish arrives for a limited time starting April 21, with the sublime aroma and color of Mimolette and basil.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hokkaido fresh pasta specialty shop Mugi to Tamago will launch a limited-time new pasta dish on April 21, reinventing its all-time No. 1 favorite with Hokkaido-grown asparagus, Mimolette and basil. The luxurious seasonal dish is brought to you by a company working to energize Japan through food.
Long-established Hakata udon restaurant Uchidaya refreshes its group locations. Uchidaya Chikushino reopens on April 24, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Long-established Hakata udon restaurant Uchidaya will reopen Uchidaya Chikushino on April 24, 2026. As part of a revitalization project under 株式会社こむぎ, with Takafumi Horie also involved, the company is working to revive the brand and transform its locations.
An online lottery featuring adorable mini characters and beautiful stills from the anime A Gentle Noble’s Vacation Recommendation is here!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Yellow Co., Ltd., a general merchandise manufacturer, will launch an online lottery featuring adorable mini characters and beautiful stills from the anime A Gentle Noble’s Vacation Recommendation. It will give fans the chance to get exclusive merchandise.
UNIEL is a creative studio working in brand direction, design and engineering, and operates STAYFUL LIFE STORE in Mitaka, Tokyo. It will hold the “PAUSED” pop-up event with FLUPPYOOZY and HUTCH.
BPO service contract backlog surpasses 140,000 cases
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A company promoting storage innovation has surpassed 140,000 BPO service contracts. It contributes to growth in the self-storage industry and also handles delinquency guarantees for storage units as well as facility development, sales and brokerage in the Tokyo metropolitan area.
[Little World] Enjoy Golden Week with the “Okinawa Urizun Festival,” “Mexican Mariachi” and “World Food Stalls”! <Aichi>
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
At Little World, operated by 名鉄インプレス, the “Okinawa Urizun Festival,” “Mexican Mariachi” and “World Food Stalls” will be held during Golden Week, offering visitors a cross-cultural experience.
Launch of “GLOVIA One,” an ERP solution for mid-sized private-sector companies
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A leading DX partner has launched “GLOVIA One,” an ERP solution for mid-sized private-sector companies. By leveraging advanced technologies such as AI and computing, it aims to address social challenges and achieve sustainability transformation (SX).
1 in 4 companies relies on employees’ manual work to protect confidential data. Next Mode releases original research report, “The Current State of Generative AI Use and Security Controls.”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Next Mode has released an original research report on generative AI use and security controls. The survey found that 1 in 4 companies relies on employees’ manual work to protect confidential data.
Installation of a Wind Challenger (rigid-sail wind propulsion system) on an existing coal carrier for 電源開発 completed
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A comprehensive shipping company founded in 1884 has completed installation of the rigid-sail wind propulsion system “Wind Challenger” on an existing coal carrier for 電源開発. The project is part of the company’s diverse social infrastructure business and will help reduce environmental impacts.
[INNISFREE] Toy Story × INNISFREE Edition! To celebrate the release of Toy Story 5, items featuring popular characters arrive in limited quantities starting Friday, May 1!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Innisfree will release a limited-edition collection featuring popular characters in limited quantities starting Friday, May 1, to celebrate the release of the film Toy Story 5. The nature-inspired skincare brand aims to reach new customer groups through its collaboration with a popular IP.
Magnitude 7.4 earthquake in Aomori, Japan; 3-meter tsunami warnings for Hokkaido and Iwate
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Aomori Prefecture, Japan, at a depth of 10 kilometers. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued 3-meter tsunami warnings for Hokkaido and Iwate, urging residents to evacuate.
U.S.-Philippines joint drills: Beijing says military cooperation between countries should not target third parties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. and the Philippines launched their annual Balikatan joint military exercises, with Japan participating. China's Foreign Ministry said military cooperation between countries should not target third parties or undermine regional peace and stability.
Pressure mounts to delay closure of Volkswagen's German plant; state premier suggests producing Chinese-brand cars
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
German chancellor proposes producing Chinese-brand cars at an idle VW plant, aiming to preserve jobs and stabilize the regional economy. The proposal points to the entry of Chinese EVs into the European market and a turning point for Germany’s auto industry.
Permanent housing built after Typhoon Morakot transforms into community long-term care facility, officially opens
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A community-based long-term care facility has opened in Taoyuan District, Kaohsiung, on the site of temporary housing built after the Eight-Eight Typhoon disaster. It provides specialized care for older people and meets the needs of local residents.
Magnitude 7.4 earthquake in Aomori, Japan; tsunami warnings for Hokkaido and Iwate
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Aomori Prefecture, Japan, reaching a maximum intensity of upper 5. Tsunami warnings were issued for Hokkaido and Iwate, and authorities urgently urged residents to evacuate.
Kuan Bi-ling inspects two major Ocean Affairs Council projects, hopes to boost industry through national defense
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ocean Affairs Council Minister Kuan Bi-ling inspected 2 major projects in Kaohsiung: the agency headquarters and a ship model testing laboratory. The projects aim to strengthen national defense, develop the marine technology industry and enhance national capabilities.
Dajia Mazu pilgrimage arrives in Xingang; Weng Chang-liang says Mazu made divisions among Taiwanese disappear
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Dajia Mazu arrived in Xingang, Chiayi. The Chiayi County magistrate and others welcomed the procession, emphasizing that Mazu faith unites the hearts of Taiwanese people and can help resolve divisions. Traffic controls and security measures were also implemented.
Energy prices drive up operating costs, increasing layoff pressure on some Singapore companies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Singaporean companies are facing higher operating costs due to surging energy prices and geopolitical risks, with some under pressure to cut staff. A survey found that 96% of companies had experienced rising costs, with labor costs a major concern.
New Youth Housing Loan applications and disbursements rebound in March; application amount rises 89% month on month
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s New Youth Housing Loan Program saw sharp month-on-month increases in both applications and loan disbursements in March 2026, reaching their highest levels since April last year.
Eight northern Taiwan cities and counties plant 1 million trees, cutting carbon emissions by more than 1284 metric tons annually
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Eight northern Taiwan cities and counties are promoting a “1 Million Trees” plan, planting more than 1 million saplings within a year and expected to cut carbon emissions by more than 1284 metric tons annually. The plan demonstrates the results of cross-county and city cooperation to promote environmental protection and net zero.
Iranian cargo ship hit and seized by U.S. military; expert says it may be towed to Oman
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. military intercepted and damaged an Iranian cargo ship in the Arabian Sea. After ignoring repeated warnings, the ship was hit, puncturing its engine room, and was subsequently seized by U.S. forces. Experts say it may be towed to Oman.
World's first conference on moving away from fossil fuels to open, with energy security on the agenda
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The world's first international conference focused on phasing out fossil fuels will be held in Colombia, with more than 50 countries expected to participate. Energy security will be among the topics discussed.
Companies mentioned:International Energy Agency (IEA)
China's NPC Standing Committee: Former Jiangsu Taiwan Affairs Office chief Lian Yueqin suspected of serious violations
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China's National People's Congress Standing Committee announced that Lian Yueqin, former head of the Jiangsu Provincial Taiwan Affairs Office, had her NPC representative qualification revoked over suspected serious disciplinary and legal violations. Details of the alleged violations have not been released.
台新證券 suffers third post-merger glitch; APP system busy, customers advised to spread out transactions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After its merger with 元富證券, 台新證券's PhoneEZ APP experienced its third system-busy issue in half a month, affecting customers' ability to check orders and trades and prompting investor complaints. Customers were advised to use other systems instead.
France investigates X platform, summons Musk for questioning
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
French authorities have asked Elon Musk to appear in Paris as part of an investigation into social media platform X, which he owns, and its AI chatbot Grok. The investigation is examining suspected political interference by X’s algorithm and the alleged spread of inappropriate content by Grok.
國家檔案館 to hold international conference in June; U.S. and Canadian archive chiefs to visit for exchange
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國家檔案館 will hold an international conference in June, inviting leaders in the U.S. and Canadian archival sectors to share their experience in digital governance and smart services, promote international exchange, and discuss issues including AI ethics and governance.
Yulon Finance and Investigation Bureau sign cybersecurity defense MOU to strengthen fraud prevention in leasing industry
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
裕融企業 and the Investigation Bureau of the Ministry of Justice signed a cybersecurity cooperation MOU. They will establish information-sharing and rapid-response systems to strengthen fraud prevention and customer data protection in the finance and leasing industries.
民進黨: Police precinct chief mistakenly sprays pepper spray, then berates DPP; Huang Kuo-chang should apologize
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung police found that Ko Wen-je was sprayed with pepper spray by mistake by a precinct chief. 民進黨 spokesperson Wu Zheng criticized the Taiwan People's Party and Huang Kuo-chang for smearing 民進黨 before the facts were clear, and called on Huang to apologize.
Yaoying plans OTC listing on 5/8; auction floor price NT$50
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
耀穎光電, a foundry for semiconductor wafer optical-sensing filter production, is expected to list on the OTC market on May 8, with an indicative underwriting price of NT$53 and a bookbuilding auction to be held. The company has integrated capabilities in precision optical coating and semiconductor photolithography and etching processes.
Forest fires worsen haze and air pollution in northern Thailand; prime minister considers long-term measures
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Forest fires in northern Thailand have worsened haze and PM2.5 air pollution. Prime Minister Anutin visited Chiang Mai and will discuss long-term measures with relevant ministries.
Hsinchu City removes sea purslane from Xiangshan Wetland to restore endemic land fiddler crab
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In Hsinchu’s Xiangshan Wetland, invasive sea purslane was removed to protect the habitat of the Taiwan fiddler crab, an endemic species. The Hsinchu City Government and National Tsing Hua University worked together to remove 750kg of the plant, aiming to restore the mudflat environment.
China's MIIT holds solar industry symposium to address anti-involution campaign
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology held a meeting on the solar photovoltaic industry. To address severe overcapacity and the problem of “involution,” government departments will coordinate comprehensive regulation covering production capacity management, standardization, innovation and price enforcement.
Changhua town resilience drill to test disaster alert messages on 4/23
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Changhua County will hold its first town resilience drill of the year on April 22 and test a disaster warning message, “Evacuation Alert,” in designated areas at 9:30 a.m. on April 23. The exercise aims to improve civil defense and disaster preparedness.
Fitch: China's GDP growth could fall to 3.8% if Strait of Hormuz closure continues
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ratings agency Fitch forecast China’s GDP growth at 4.3% this year, warning that it could fall to 3.8% if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed through the second quarter. Key challenges include weak demand and external pressure from the U.S.-Iran conflict, which is affecting energy supplies and trade.