74 received, 74 listed, 2 sources
One place for news and notices from 2 countries/regions: Taiwan, 49 items from 1 source; Japan, 25 items from 1 source.
One edition every 180 minutes: every item from every source received in the period, with the original link.
President Lai Ching-te held a video conference with the national security team at home while visiting Eswatini to receive the latest updates on domestic and international developments. He confirmed that government operations, national security and responses to international affairs would continue smoothly during his overseas trip.
The Pingtung County Government completed its 3-year “Pingtung SOLO” tourism guidebook project, releasing a 3-volume set covering the attractions of all 33 townships. County Magistrate Chou Chun-mi attended a signing event and said she hoped the guidebooks would help travelers gain a deeper understanding of Pingtung.
Companies mentioned：屏東縣政府、微笑台灣、誠品書店、五南文化、博客來、讀冊生活、金石堂書店
桃園市警局中壢分局 carried out the “Thunderbolt Crime Crackdown Project” during the Labor Day holiday, recording 113 criminal cases and 108 arrests between April 26 and May 2. The operation targeted a wide range of crimes, including fraud, theft, drugs and public endangerment, demonstrating its resolve to combat crime.
Companies mentioned：桃園市警局中壢分局
Actor Chou Hou-an plays both a human and a corrupted monster in his new film “Monster Mr. Underground City.” During a dangerous wire-action shoot, he accidentally collided with concrete but was fortunately uninjured. Yang Yi-chan serves as both producer and lead actor, with Hung Sheng-yang directing.
Companies mentioned：中央社
The Taoyuan City Department of Transportation announced plans to expand its 9-seat “Taoxiaoba” bus routes to 120 by the end of the year to address a driver shortage. By replacing existing routes and launching new ones, the city aims to increase public bus coverage and secure more drivers.
Companies mentioned：桃園市政府交通局
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Companies mentioned：台北市警察局中正第一分局
China’s Cyberspace Administration punished 98,000 social media accounts for reasons including improperly identifying sources, failing to disclose AI-generated content and staging false events. The measures aim to prevent misinformation from misleading public opinion and damaging the online ecosystem.
Companies mentioned：中央網信辦、新華社、界面新聞
Taiwanese professional baseball team TSG Hawks catcher Wu Ming-hung and pitcher Huang Tzu-peng teamed up for the first time in about 10 years and led the team to victory. Manager Hung Yi-chung praised Wu’s game-calling and stressed that defense is more important than offense for a catcher.
Companies mentioned：中職台鋼雄鷹隊、中信兄弟
Taichung City Councilor Chou Yung-hung warned that illegal “black security guards” were undercutting the market with low prices and called on the Taichung City Police Department to address the problem. The department said it had launched joint investigations and would impose business suspensions and fines on illegal operators.
Six people died in a fire at a foot massage shop in Lingbao, Henan province. An investigation by the National Fire and Rescue Administration found that the fire control room was unmanned when the fire broke out, and said the failure to respond to the alarm contributed to the disaster.
Companies mentioned：瀾風足療店、中國國家消防救援局
The crime-investigation reality show “The Birth of Young Detectives” has launched, with celebrities including Sonia Sui and Wen Sheng-hao as hosts. It aims to promote legal knowledge and showcase local culture and businesses in Tainan. Pairing stars, lawyers and young detectives, the show offers an entertaining way to learn about the law.
During Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s visit to Eswatini, Health and Welfare Minister Shih Chung-liang discussed medical cooperation with the country. The two sides aim to digitize healthcare and improve its quality by developing an international medical-record format based on the FHIR standard and supporting the introduction of AI systems.
Companies mentioned：台北醫學大學
The 16th Daxueshan Birdwatching Competition drew 170 people on 46 teams, who recorded 152 bird species. The first Daxueshan Birdsong Imitation Contest was also held, with the AI bird-call identification system SILIC validating the imitations of 6 participants, pointing to a new trend in wildlife observation.
Companies mentioned：農業部林業及自然保育署台中分署、農業部生物多樣性研究所
The war in the Middle East is having a severe impact on the global economy. The UN refugee agency reported difficulties transporting aid to refugees as shipping costs soar. The Japanese government announced a second release of national oil reserves to stabilize supplies, while Singapore’s prime minister warned that a closure of the Strait of Hormuz would slow economic growth and accelerate inflation.
Companies mentioned：ENEOS、出光興産、COSMO石油、太陽石油
Original中華職棒富邦悍將隊の投手廖任磊が味全龍隊の郭天信に死球を与え、故意かどうかの論争が勃発。廖任磊は足元が不安定で暴投したと説明し、捕手の配球とは無関係だと主張。両チームの監督や捕手もコメントし、偶発的な事故であることを強調した。
Companies mentioned：富邦悍將隊、味全龍隊
Taiwan’s Baishatun Mazu Charity Association warned the public about a fraud group using AI to impersonate Mazu and sell “blessing packs.” The association said it had no connection to the activity, had reported the case to police and intended to take legal action.
Companies mentioned：白沙屯廟街文創 (偽ファンページ)
A hidden camera disguised as a smoke detector was found at a beauty clinic in Banqiao, New Taipei City, prompting a police investigation. The case came to light after a woman noticed a suspicious device during a procedure and reported it. The Department of Health has also opened an administrative investigation for possible violations of the Medical Care Act; if involvement is confirmed, fines will be imposed and the case referred to judicial authorities.
台湾中油公司 said it was working with the Ministry of Environment’s policies to prevent pollution and promote low-carbon development. It highlighted significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions as well as lower VOC emissions. The company said it aimed to balance environmental protection with industrial development and called for clearer regulations and consultation with industry.
Companies mentioned：台湾中油公司
The Taichung City Department of Transportation praised the dedicated service of Zhan Zhikai, a bus driver with 豊原客運. It cited his considerate assistance to 4 wheelchair users and an episode that moved a high school student who had been frequently absent, emphasizing the need to improve both the hardware and service aspects of public transportation.
Companies mentioned：豊原客運
A court ordered a further 2-month extension of the detention of a suspect surnamed Li, who stabbed to death a man surnamed Liu in a brawl in Taipei’s Wanhua district last October. Li has admitted to the crime but will remain in custody over concerns he may flee or destroy evidence.
Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration warned of possible localized heavy rain in mountainous areas of Nantou from the afternoon, along with thunderstorms and strong gusts. Temperatures have also remained high, especially in southern Taiwan, reaching 37.3 degrees in Nanhua District, Tainan. People were urged to take precautions against temperatures of 36 degrees or higher.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs said Taiwan Power Co.’s Third Nuclear Power Plant must complete voluntary safety inspections, pass review by the Nuclear Safety Commission and obtain an operating permit before loading nuclear fuel. Any restart of nuclear power plants will be approached cautiously under 3 principles: ensuring safety, resolving the nuclear waste issue and securing public consensus.
The Pingtung County Government and the American Institute in Taiwan co-hosted 2 “I CAN HELP Basic Disaster Preparedness Training Workshops” at Pingtung County Datong Senior High School, with 100 students taking part. The workshops aim to strengthen students’ disaster response and basic first-aid skills amid extreme climate change and shifting international conditions.
Companies mentioned：屏東縣政府、美國在台協會 (AIT)、壯闊台灣
Original中職台鋼雄鷹隊の野手、王博玄選手が開幕から調子が上がらず二軍調整をしていましたが、5月に入り調子を上げ、打撃率が2割を超えました。大学時代からシーズン序盤に調子が上がりにくい「スロースターター」の傾向があったと語り、ポジティブな姿勢で臨んでいることを明かしました。
Companies mentioned：台鋼雄鷹隊
China’s May Day holiday entered day 3, with tourist attractions across the country packed by record crowds. Tickets sold out at many scenic spots, while some hotels offered paid “floor-sleeping” spots, reflecting the chaos of the travel rush. The crowds are expected to show up in post-holiday consumption data and serve as an indicator of the recovery in household spending.
Guanlin Temple in Hengchun Township, Pingtung County, held water-based competitions, including a palanquin relay on the water at Houbihu Yacht Harbor, to celebrate the birthday of General Li. The event combined a religious festival with local waterfront culture and drew many residents and tourists, creating a lively atmosphere.
The Criminal Investigation Bureau warned of a rise in online shopping scams, saying fraud groups were using fake delivery links and customer service accounts on LINE to steal personal information and money. It cited cases such as offers of free iPhones and urged the public not to click suspicious links or provide requested information.
Companies mentioned：7-11（セブン-イレブン）、全家（ファミリーマート）、黑貓宅急便（ヤマト運輸）
Zhu Meng, a 19-year-old infielder for Taiwan’s TSG Hawks, impressed with his defense yesterday in his first career start in the top league and was hailed as a “future star.” He put the results of specialized defensive training in the minors on display, earning high praise from the fielding coach. Although he has yet to adjust to the top league’s pitching strength at the plate, he is seen as a promising infielder.
Companies mentioned：中職台鋼雄鷹
Lebanese broadcaster LBCI released a satirical video depicting a leader of 真主党 as a character from the popular game “Angry Birds,” drawing fierce criticism from 真主党 as a “vulgar insult.” The video has heightened sectarian tensions, and Lebanese President Aoun has urged the public to refrain from attacks.
Companies mentioned：LBCI、真主党、黎巴嫩力量、法新社
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te visited Eswatini and presented gifts highlighting Taiwan’s distinctive culture, including a traditional cow, a model of a Tao wooden boat from Lanyu and tea fit for a state guest. The gifts showcased the countries’ friendship and Taiwan’s cultural diversity.
Candidates from various parties in the Yilan County magistrate race expressed support for President Lai Ching-te’s visit to Eswatini. They highlighted the value of bipartisan cooperation in diplomacy and voiced hope that diplomatic achievements would benefit the local economy.
Wei Chuan Dragons player Guo Tian-xin was hit on the knee by a pitch during a game, prompting general manager Yeh Chun-chang to ask opposing pitcher Liao Ren-lei whether it was intentional. Guo’s injury was fortunately minor, and he was able to play the following day.
Companies mentioned：味全龍、富邦悍將
Berkshire Hathaway’s annual shareholder meeting shifted from a humor-focused style to detailed business discussions following Warren Buffett’s retirement and the appointment of new CEO Abel. The Middle East situation and the risks and benefits of AI were also on the agenda.
Companies mentioned：波克夏海瑟威公司、中央社、美聯社
The Japanese government is easing restrictions on defense equipment exports and aiming to enter the global military market. While this will create business opportunities for some defense companies, production capacity and labor shortages remain challenges, and a full-scale market entry is expected to take time.
Companies mentioned：三菱重工業 (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries)、川崎重工 (Kawasaki Heavy Industries)、三菱電機、IHI、斯德哥爾摩國際和平研究所 (SIPRI)、史汀生研究中心 (Stimson Center)、拓殖大學、日經新聞
中信兄弟 ranked worst among the league’s 6 teams this season in stolen bases and caught-stealing percentage, an issue manager Keiichi Hirano recognizes as a major challenge. However, he sees the exposure of problems that had previously gone unnoticed as a good opportunity for the team to work on improvements.
Companies mentioned：中信兄弟、統一7-ELEVEn獅隊、味全龍
Japanese girl band Faulieu. announced that it will perform in Taipei on July 18. The concert is part of the band’s largest tour to date, marking its 3rd anniversary, and Taipei is its only overseas stop. Lead vocalist Canaco spoke of her enthusiasm for exploring local cuisine and performing, and affirmed her determination to keep taking on challenges, saying, “You only live once.”
Companies mentioned：Faulieu.
中信兄弟 pitcher Nick Nelson (黎克) was demoted to the minor leagues despite making quality starts, after failing to earn his first win. He said he was satisfied with his pitching, while noting Taiwanese batters’ aggressiveness, and expressed his determination to make adjustments and return to the top team.
Companies mentioned：中信兄弟、台鋼雄鷹隊
Jordan carried out airstrikes in Syria’s southern Sweida province, targeting sites believed to be storage facilities for drugs and weapons. The strikes were part of efforts to combat drug-smuggling networks in Syria and aimed to strengthen security along the Jordanian border.
Companies mentioned：シリア国営テレビ、法新社、叙利亞人權瞭望台
An 83-year-old man in Tainan, Taiwan, set fire to his home, injured 3 people with an axe, stole an ambulance and fled before being arrested. The incident is believed to have stemmed from a family argument.
外交部 made several personnel changes at its overseas missions, promoting Wang Weilong to deputy representative in India. Lin Chenfu was appointed director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Auckland, while Li Xiuyao became deputy representative to the EU and Belgium, among other appointments to key diplomatic posts.
Companies mentioned：外交部、行政院、立法院
A coastal cleanup was held in Huxi Township, Penghu, collecting more than 3 tons of marine debris in just over 1 hour. The effort addressed the large amounts of trash washed ashore by the northeast monsoon. More than 200 volunteers took part, helping raise environmental awareness.
Companies mentioned：澎湖縣政府、湖西鄉公所、澎湖環保局
A collision involving 4 vehicles occurred on the Houli-Fengyuan section of Taiwan’s National Highway 4. One vehicle overturned, and 2 people sustained minor injuries and were taken to hospital. The accident is believed to have been caused by failure to maintain a safe following distance.
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Companies mentioned：南電
The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) withdrawal from OPEC+ has taken effect, and 7 countries, including Saudi Arabia and Russia, will discuss new oil production allocations. The UAE’s departure is adding to tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty in oil markets.
Companies mentioned：全球風險管理公司 (Global Risk Management)、Rystad Energy、Kpler、阿布達比國家石油公司 (ADNOC)
Hotels and care facilities in Japan have been acquired by Chinese companies, followed by closures and unpaid wages. Reports allege that the companies arranged management visa applications under the pretext of investment, with former employees speaking out.
Singer Shakira held a free concert on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach, drawing 2 million people. Rio city officials estimate the event will generate more than US$160 million (about NT$5 billion) in tourism revenue.
Formosa Petrochemical announced that it will keep gasoline and diesel prices unchanged starting May 4. Retail prices will be set by individual gas stations.
Companies mentioned：台塑石化 (Formosa Petrochemical)
Premier Cho Jung-tai emphasized that cooperation between the dental profession and the government is essential to achieving the “8020 Plan,” noting that Taiwan’s 65-year-olds have an average of just 19.77 natural teeth. He said the government would increase the oral health budget and work to improve public oral health through subsidies for oral cancer screenings and expanded medical services in remote areas.
Companies mentioned：牙醫師公會全國聯合會、世界衛生組織 (WHO)
Opinions within the Kuomintang are divided over the party’s special defense budget proposal. The party leadership is advocating NT$380 billion + N, while some lawmakers support NT$800 billion. Former party chairwoman Hung Hsiu-chu explained that “+N” is a “scholarly” formulation because the amount would vary according to the actual weapons procurement items.
TAC Corporation will hold a free online lecture on May 7 for people considering civil service exams for psychology and social welfare positions. The lecture will cover strategies for passing, introduce courses and explain special benefits. Participants can also ask questions using the Q&A feature.
Personal gym THE PERSONAL GYM Otsuka branch has opened in Otsuka, Toshima Ward, Tokyo. Its features include an experienced team of trainers, collaboration with medical and nutrition professionals, affordable pricing and a no-equipment-needed environment. The gym supports health and wellness rooted in the local community.
Companies mentioned：ツエーゲン金沢
Original世界一のマジックチーム「チームIbuki」が、2026年5月3日放送の日本テレビ系「timeleszファミリア」にチーム全員で初のスタジオ出演を果たしました。番組ではtimeleszメンバーにマジック指導を行い、即席ショーを成功させ、チームの総合的なクリエイティブ力を示しました。
Companies mentioned：日本テレビ
Inatō Agabe and ASTRA FOOD PLAN have jointly launched limited-edition craft sake “Kōshu Hanakaze Gururiko 2026,” made by upcycling hops used in ヤッホーブルーイング’s “Yona Yona Ale.” The initiative seeks to promote resource circulation and create new flavors.
Companies mentioned：稲とアガベ株式会社、ASTRA FOOD PLAN株式会社、ヤッホーブルーイング、三越伊勢丹
Limited-edition craft sake “Kōshu Hanakaze Gururiko,” made by upcycling used hops, was launched in April 2026. It was jointly developed by food-tech startup ASTRA FOOD PLAN and craft sake brewery Inatō Agabe.
Companies mentioned：ASTRA FOOD PLAN 株式会社、稲とアガベ株式会社、ヤッホーブルーイング、三越伊勢丹
Original人気アーティストMUSASHIが生んだ宇宙人キャラクター「（仮）謎のUFOちゃん」が、LINEスタンプとして初めて登場しました。MUSASHIは2025年に大阪・関西万博での個展やビックリマンとのコラボで活躍した若手アーティストです。
Companies mentioned：株式会社石富プロパティー、LINE
The latest issue, vol.124, of digital BL magazine “CRAFT” began streaming on May 1, 2026. It features a lineup of exciting new series and popular ongoing works, and limited-edition bromide photo cards are also being sold to mark the magazine’s transition to a monthly schedule. The magazine offers engaging content and promotions for BL fans.
Companies mentioned：株式会社大洋図書
Rensa Co., Ltd. has made “Fortune-telling by Mimiko | Horoscope,” a forecast for the second half of 2026 by accomplished fortune-teller Mimiko, publicly available on its official fortune-telling site. The service provides detailed horoscope readings based on information such as date of birth, and some features are available without registering as a member.
Hidaca Kyobashi, an urban mini-supermarket operated by 株式会社ヒダカヤ, will hold the 3rd installment of its “1st Anniversary Thank You Sale” starting May 4 to mark 1 year since opening. Catering to Golden Week demand, the store will offer selected fresh foods, daily bento boxes and bulk-buy items at special prices, helping enrich local food options.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ヒダカヤ
TAC Corporation is running “Spring Discount Campaign Part 3” for its National Civil Service Examination preparation courses. The offer includes up to ¥70,000 off, plus a free General Knowledge Track Enhancement Pack worth about ¥30,000, supporting candidates aiming for national civil service positions.
Native Camp has added an “Airport” category to “Practical Travel English” to ease anxiety about speaking English while traveling abroad. Learners can now practice practical airport conversations, such as checking in and going through immigration, in role-play format.
Comedy duo Chidori will appear as the monthly guests for May 2026 on “Takuya Kimura Flow,” the radio program hosted by Takuya Kimura. Over 4 weeks, they will discuss their careers in entertainment and private lives, in conversations expected to draw listeners’ interest.
Companies mentioned：TOKYO FM、JFN、三菱UFJ銀行、ECC
Artists including Marinasu, LiLYPSE and Kiraboshi Penta, who belong to VTuber production company “AceeeZ,” have begun using KADOKAWA’s “CSP (Creator Support Program).” This enables secondary use of copyrighted works such as games and anime, expanding the artists’ scope of activities.
Companies mentioned：KADOKAWA、VEXZ
classclass2021, a class T-shirt brand operated by 株式会社Lemon, has revealed why it earns strong reviews, with production for more than 4,000 schools annually and a 4.8-star Google rating. Its distinctive service model—including fully postpaid orders, 24-hour support and a 100% on-time delivery rate—helps ease customers’ concerns and keeps them coming back.
Companies mentioned：株式会社Lemon、classclass2021
11 researchers from Okayama University presented at “PSI GAP Fund DemoDay2026,” which supports the creation of university startups. The event aims to promote the practical application of research results and strengthen ties with industry and investors.
Professional table tennis team T.T Saitama announced that Yuta Iimura will leave the team upon the expiration of his contract. Iimura spent 3 seasons with the team and expressed his gratitude to the team and its fans.
Native Camp Japanese has revamped the lesson screen UI in its online Japanese conversation app. Intuitively placed buttons and streamlined features provide an environment where learners can focus on conversation without fumbling with the controls. A 7-day free trial and a campaign offering USD20 worth of coins are currently available.
Study Chain Inc. has substantially revamped the curriculum and preparation plans for its “慶應義塾大学-focused Comprehensive Selection Coaching” program, which specializes in preparation for comprehensive admissions selection at Keio University. Based on an analysis of 25 years of admissions trends, the program aims to maximize applicants’ chances of acceptance in the 2027 admissions cycle.
Companies mentioned：慶應義塾大学
Prime Video’s official “シネフィルWOWOWプラス” YouTube channel will make all episodes of the dubbed version of “Dublin Murders S1,” the mystery drama based on a novel by Edgar Award-winning author Tana French, available for free for a limited time starting May 3. The series stars Killian Scott. Episode 1 follows detectives investigating a murder linked to a past case.
Companies mentioned：Prime Video、シネフィルWOWOWプラス、Dublin Murders Productions Limited
A survey of 256 people on awareness of sexually transmitted infections conducted by Tokyo Testing Clinic found that around 25% or more had an asymptomatic infection. The clinic stressed that infections can also spread from “a regular partner” and that physical and informational barriers make it difficult to seek testing.
Go Morita, a former top idol and actor, speaks candidly about his life and struggles on the YouTube program “Short Hope.” The 4-part feature, in which he discusses the highs and lows of his time with V6, his thoughts since childhood and aspects of his private life few knew about, will begin streaming on May 5.
マーティ株式会社, a provider of ballet and dance supplies, will hold “Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026” in July and August, featuring professional dancers alongside the next generation of professionals. A Golden Week ticket campaign is underway on social media, with tickets and programs to be awarded by lottery.
Companies mentioned：マーティ株式会社
Original岡山大学の横井篤文副学長が文部科学省参与に任命され、世界最大級の国際教育会議NAFSA 2026で日本政府代表として登壇、Featured Speakerにも選出されました。これはコロナ禍以降の日本の大学関係者としては初の快挙で、国際教育における日本のプレゼンス向上に貢献します。
Originalバンダイナムコエンターテインメントは、対戦格闘ゲーム『鉄拳8』の追加キャラクター「州光」のゲームプレイトレーラーを公開し、5月28日より早期アクセスを開始。さらに、第12弾追加キャラクターを「Combo Breaker 2026」（5月22日～24日）で発表すると予告した。
Companies mentioned：バンダイナムコエンターテインメント、Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc.、Microsoft Corporation、Valve Corporation
LIVTO TOTTORI Real Estate has launched IT-enabled remote inheritance consulting and a high-precision valuation service using data analysis. The services use digital technology to support secure, transparent real estate transactions in response to Tottori Prefecture’s serious vacant-home problem and the challenges of inheriting property from afar, contributing to solutions for issues facing local communities.