Beijing obstructs President Lai’s overseas trip; national security official says contingency plans were prepared in advance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te returned home safely after visiting Eswatini. China tried to disrupt his flight route, but the attempt was thwarted by a response plan prepared in advance by the national security team. China also sought to obstruct the visit through diplomatic means, while Taiwan demonstrated its commitment to international law and its determination to uphold its right to conduct diplomacy.
TPBL: Kings beat the DEA to stay alive; Lin Shu-wei says he wants to take O'Dier to the playoffs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In Game 2 of the TPBL Playoff Challenge, the New Taipei Kings defeated the CTBC DEA, with Lin Shu-wei scoring 23 points. Lin said he hoped to lead teammate Austin Daye, who is retiring after this season, into the playoffs.
After exchange of fire in the Gulf between the US and Iran, US secretary of war says ceasefire with Iran remains in effect
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Despite a clash between the United States and Iran in the Persian Gulf, the US defense secretary said the ceasefire between the two countries remained in effect. The United States claimed it had succeeded in securing shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, while reports said Iran continued to attack commercial vessels.
Life insurers post NT$96.4 billion in first-quarter profit, up 13% year on year; US-Iran war turns March losses
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s life insurance industry posted NT$96.4 billion in profit in the first quarter of this year, up 13.5% year on year and the highest for the same period in nearly 4 years. However, turbulence in capital markets triggered by the US-Iran war in March weakened some investment positions, turning the industry’s monthly result into a loss of NT$11.2 billion.
Singapore’s new rules allow caning for school bullying; education minister questioned by lawmakers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Singapore's Ministry of Education issued new guidelines on bullying in schools, suggesting that offenders could face caning. The education minister told Parliament that caning would be a last resort and would be subject to strict safeguards.
Philippine and Japanese defense ministers meet to advance equipment transfers and deepen cooperation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The defense ministers of the Philippines and Japan met in Manila and signed a statement on defense equipment and technology cooperation. The countries aim to promote transfers of defense equipment from Japan to the Philippines, including Abukuma-class escort ships, and deepen regional security cooperation.
Research firm: AI optical interconnects drive US companies to expand outsourcing in Southeast Asia; Taiwanese firms vie for orders
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
According to research firm TrendForce, opportunities in AI optical interconnects are prompting US companies to expand contract manufacturing in Southeast Asia. This is increasing opportunities for Taiwanese companies with factories in the region to win orders from non-China supply chains. Shipments of optical transceiver modules are forecast to exceed 3 times their 2023 level in 2026.
In Draw No. 115110 of Taiwan's lottery game 今彩539, 1 ticket won the top prize (1st prize), worth NT$8 million. The 2nd prize had 212 winning tickets, and there were also winners in the 3-Star and 4-Star draws.
After Iranian missile and drone attacks, United Arab Emirates restricts its airspace
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After the United Arab Emirates (UAE) came under missile and drone attacks from Iran, the General Civil Aviation Authority announced partial airspace restrictions. It said emergency safety measures allowing only approved routes would remain in place through May 11. Several flights were forced to reroute as a result.
What are the symptoms of meningococcal disease? A look at transmission routes and key prevention measures
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control announced 2 new cases of meningococcal disease, bringing the total for this year to 7, the highest for the same period in the past 10 years. It warned the public about the disease's symptoms, transmission routes and prevention measures; its fatality rate can reach 40%.
Taiwan Lottery Lotto draw No. 115050: no top-prize winner
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The results of Draw No. 115050 of Taiwan's lottery game 大樂透 were announced on May 5. There were no winners of the 1st or 2nd prizes, and the prize money will roll over to the next draw. The winning numbers were 17, 37, 28, 04, 23 and 33, with 15 as the special number.
Rats are Japan’s most common residential pest; preventing entry and checking gaps are key
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A survey found that rats are the most common household pest in Japan, and that checking for and sealing gaps is the most important way to keep them out. Rat activity increases especially in spring and summer, making preventive measures essential.
Tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz; Iran says it has more ways to escalate the conflict
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran warned that it has ways to further escalate a conflict if the United States threatens its control of the shipping route. Iran is seeking to establish a new status quo in the strait and warned the United States that it has not yet shown its full strength.
Taipei launches rodent detection and prevention specialists to combat infestations; DPP councilor says move puts pressure on frontline workers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei City announced plans to introduce a “鼠類偵防師” program to tackle rodent problems. However, Democratic Progressive Party councilors warned that it could place an excessive burden on existing frontline staff and fail to provide a substantive solution, criticizing it as little more than a performance.
Interior Ministry holds meeting to improve flood preparations; indigenous search-and-rescue team expected to be established on 5/15
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Ministry of the Interior held a “Flood Preparedness Improvement Meeting” and required 19 coastal counties and cities to inspect tsunami shelters and update information by May 15. An Indigenous Special Search and Rescue Team is also scheduled to be formed with 216 members by the same date. The measures are intended to strengthen disaster preparedness for extreme climate change and compound disasters.
Meta expands teen account protections to Facebook in the EU and US
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Meta announced that it would expand its youth account protection technology to Facebook in the EU's 27 member countries and the United States. The technology uses AI to identify youth accounts regardless of the age given at registration and apply protective measures, strengthening online protections for young people.
UK targets Russian aggression abroad; sanctions list includes entities in China and Hong Kong
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The British government announced new sanctions targeting Russia's military industry and its acts of aggression. The targets include 2 entities in China and Hong Kong accused of supplying Russia with drone technology, components and military goods to support its invasion of Ukraine.
Companies mentioned：M9 LOGISTICS (香港)、上海石冉國際貨運代理 (Shanghai Shiran International Freight Forwarding)
Where is Eswatini, and how do you get there? Taiwanese can enter visa-free for a first taste of Africa
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Eswatini, in southern Africa, is a diplomatic ally of Taiwan, and Taiwanese citizens can enter without a visa. Its attractions include wildlife parks, cultural villages and music festivals. With good public safety and English widely spoken, it is a suitable destination for a first experience of Africa.
Four pygmy killer whales were found stranded on the beach beneath the Tamkang Bridge in Taiwan. About 30 people from the Coast Guard Administration, the New Taipei City Animal Protection Office and other conservation groups took part in the rescue. They poured seawater over the whales to prevent dehydration as they transported them to Badouzi in Keelung.
資策會 establishes Edge AI Applications Industry Alliance to accelerate real-world AI applications
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
資策會 established the “Edge AI Applications Industry Alliance” and signed a memorandum of cooperation with 群聯電子. The initiative aims to accelerate the adoption and application of Edge AI technology in industry and build Taiwan's Edge AI ecosystem.
US-led Pax Silica alliance expands as Norway joins to bolster AI supply chain
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Norwegian government announced that it would join the US-led Pax Silica initiative. The multilateral alliance aims to ensure the reliability of artificial intelligence (AI) supply chains and reduce dependence on China.
Ahead of COMPUTEX, E Ink joins 40 ecosystem partners to create an e-paper industry zone
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
E Ink Holdings, an e-paper manufacturer, will create a 1170-square-meter zone dedicated to the e-paper industry at COMPUTEX 2026, together with 40 ecosystem partners. It will showcase a range of innovations in color e-paper and smart surface technologies, including large-scale signage, color-changing vehicle bodies and retail media.
A-Lin races between 2 music festivals in ironwoman mode; announces upcoming shows in Taipei and Kaohsiung
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Singer Eve Ai took on an “ironwoman mode” schedule, performing at 2 music festivals in 4 days, and announced plans for concerts in Taipei and Kaohsiung. She thanked her fans and said she plans to release new songs in the second half of the year, promising to present an “upgraded version of Eve Ai.”
Romania’s parliament passes no-confidence motion, ousting pro-EU Prime Minister Bolojan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Romania's parliament passed a no-confidence motion and dismissed pro-EU Prime Minister Bolojan. The move deepens the country's political turmoil, after the left-wing Social Democratic Party and far-right forces joined forces to submit the motion.
The results of Draw No. 115050 of Taiwan's lottery game 大樂透 were announced. The winning numbers were 17, 37, 28, 04, 23 and 33, with 15 as the special number. The information is based on the official announcement by Taiwan Lottery.
Fire breaks out at auto repair shop in New Taipei’s Tucheng; 3 rescued and taken to hospital as a precaution
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A fire broke out at an auto repair shop in Tucheng District, New Taipei City. Three people were rescued and taken to hospital as a precaution. The fire started at around 5 p.m.; firefighters quickly brought it under control, extinguishing it in about 1 hour. The cause is under investigation.
Acerpure approves establishment of Indonesian subsidiary to expand Southeast Asian home appliance market
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Acerpure, the smart home appliance brand under 宏碁グループ, has decided to establish an Indonesian subsidiary with an investment of up to US$3.1 million. The move is intended to expand in Southeast Asia's home appliance market and strengthen its business in Indonesia.
Study finds severe pollution from Norwegian salmon farming, equivalent to all untreated wastewater in Australia
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A new analysis found that marine pollution caused by Norway's aquaculture industry is severe. Its total releases of nitrogen, phosphorus and organic carbon are comparable to the volume of untreated sewage discharged across Australia. The pollution is having a serious impact on marine ecosystems.
Companies mentioned：陽石研究院（Sunstone Institute）、挪威海洋研究所（Institute of Marine Research）、挪威海產聯盟（Norwegian Seafood Federation）
The results of Draw No. 115110 of Taiwan's lottery game 今彩539 were announced. The winning numbers were 16, 37, 08, 24 and 27. The winning numbers for the 3-Star and 4-Star draws were also announced.
Cruise ship suspected in hantavirus deaths of 3; Japanese expert says fatality rates vary widely by strain
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A hantavirus outbreak occurred aboard the Dutch-flagged cruise ship Hondius, leaving 3 passengers dead. One Japanese passenger has also been confirmed among those aboard. Japanese experts noted that the hantavirus fatality rate varies widely by type, ranging from 10% to 50%.
金管會 urges public to make good use of insurance product platform and secure basic coverage first
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's 金管會 urged members of the public who tend to favor savings-type insurance to prioritize protection-oriented policies by using a platform for such products. It recommended supplementing basic coverage to prepare for unexpected risks.
Hantavirus patient took a flight after disembarking from cruise ship; WHO traces passengers on same flight
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After a confirmed hantavirus patient boarded a plane following disembarkation from a cruise ship and later died, the WHO began tracing passengers on the same flight. Multiple infections and deaths have also been confirmed aboard the cruise ship, and possible human-to-human transmission has been noted.
Deadly explosion at fireworks factory in Hunan; China’s State Council forms investigation team for thorough probe
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Following an explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan province, China, that killed 26 people and injured 61, China’s State Council announced it had set up an accident investigation team to thoroughly determine the cause and pursue accountability.
矽格 raises capital spending this year to NT$8.8 billion as AI and ASIC packaging and testing demand surges
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Semiconductor packaging and testing manufacturer 矽格 announced it would increase this year’s capital spending from NT$5.9 billion to NT$8.8 billion to meet rising demand for AI, ASICs and other products. First-quarter revenue hit a record high, and profits also rose sharply.
神準 plans to inject US$10 million into Vietnam subsidiary to optimize financial structure
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
神準科技公司 announced it would inject an additional US$10 million into its Vietnamese subsidiary, SENAO NETWORKS VIETNAM CO., LTD. The capital increase aims to save on interest costs and optimize its financial structure, and reflects the company’s strategic focus on Southeast Asian markets.
Hualien County Criminal Investigation Corps chief Liu Zong-ren accused of leaking secrets to female friend; released on NT$100,000 bail
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Liu Zongren, head of the Hualien County Criminal Investigation Corps and a former captain of the Neihu Precinct’s Criminal Investigation Team in Taipei, was released on bail of NT$100,000 by the Taipei District Prosecutors Office on suspicion of leaking details of an ongoing investigation to a female friend. An internal police investigation is underway.
Tsai Chin announces she will retire from singing at the end of 2027; sole return show will be in Taiwan in September
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Singer Tsai Chin announced she will retire at the end of 2027, making her “Don’t Say Goodbye” tour effectively her farewell concert tour. She said she wanted to bid farewell to audiences while in top form. As a singer raised in Taiwan, her September Taipei show will be her only additional performance.
Is Taiwan at high risk of oil shortages? Ministry of Economic Affairs says oil and gas reserves are sufficient and supply is secure
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs said domestic oil and gas reserves exceed the statutory requirement and supply is not at risk, addressing concerns about shortages of petroleum products amid the situation in Iran. It has activated an emergency response mechanism to help stabilize supply.
12-year-old boy arrested in Hong Kong for allegedly trying to make a bomb
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 12-year-old male student in Hong Kong was arrested on a charge of “attempted manufacture of explosives” after posting a bomb-making video on Instagram and claiming to have made explosives. The case highlights a trend toward radicalization among young people and the importance of parents’ and teachers’ roles.
Demand for spillover coverage policies rises; first-quarter premiums grow 1.2 times year on year to NT$24.3 billion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
According to Financial Supervisory Commission statistics, sales of new out-of-pocket benefit insurance policies totaled 363,831 in Q1 this year, up 44% year over year, while first-year premium income was about NT$24.3151 billion, up 119%. The increases were mainly driven by 国泰人壽 selling high-value insurance products. By contrast, both sales and premium income for indemnity-based insurance declined.
Yongdao approves cash injection of US$12 million into Vietnam subsidiary
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
RFID maker 永道-KY（Arizon RFID Technology）decided to make a US$12 million cash investment in its Vietnamese subsidiary, Arizon Technology (Vietnam) Co., Ltd. The investment is for long-term purposes and signals 永道’s commitment to expanding its business in Vietnam.
Taiwan, Singapore and South Korea team up on new drama; Ho Man-hsi to star in Sunshine Girl
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan, Singapore and South Korea are jointly producing the new drama “你好，我的怪盜老闆.” 何曼希 stars in the series, which adapts a Korean original for Chinese-speaking audiences and aims for international distribution.
6 of 30 people at Kaohsiung Dashu dinner suspected of food poisoning; health bureau orders business suspended
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After a family group of 30 dined at a restaurant in Dashu District, Kaohsiung, 6 people reported symptoms of food poisoning, and the health bureau ordered the restaurant to close for 2 days. Multiple hygiene problems were cited, including inadequate defrosting of the refrigerator.
China aims to have domestic suppliers meet more than 70% of the silicon wafer needs of local chipmakers by 2026, accelerating the localization of its semiconductor supply chain. Major company 西安奕斯偉材料科技 has significantly expanded production capacity and strengthened supply to major customers at home and abroad.
Iranian foreign minister to visit China on 5/6; whether he will meet Xi Jinping draws attention
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi is scheduled to visit China on May 6 and meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. It will be his first visit to China since the US-Iran war broke out, and following his visit to Russia last week, attention is focused on the possibility of a meeting with President Xi Jinping.
GlobalWafers: Customer demand improves significantly; 12-inch production lines at full capacity
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Silicon wafer maker 環球晶 announced that marked improvement in customer demand had brought its 12-inch production lines to full capacity, while utilization rates for small- and medium-sized wafers had also risen significantly. Although seasonal factors reduced its Q1 profits, the company is accelerating capacity ramp-up at its new production lines.
Accused of helping Chinese united-front official enter Taiwan, Hsu Chun-ying tells court friend made the suggestion first
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese mainland spouse 徐春鶯 and her friend 羅穎 went on trial on suspicion of forging documents to conceal the entry into Taiwan of 孫憲, a Chinese United Front official. 羅穎 testified that 徐春鶯 had arranged it, while 徐春鶯 countered that 羅穎 first proposed the idea to 孫憲 and that she had only helped coordinate communications. They have been indicted on charges including violations of the Anti-Infiltration Act, and prosecutors are seeking severe penalties.
May Painting Society marks 70 years since founding with group exhibition of more than 100 works by 60 members
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The May Painting Society is marking its 70th anniversary with a group exhibition at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, featuring about 140 works by 60 members. The diverse works, including oil paintings, mixed media and acrylics, showcase creative variety across generations and regions.
愛爾麗診所 suspected of hiding pinhole cameras; Taipei police inspect 4 branches and find no wrongdoing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After a pinhole camera was found at the 愛爾麗診所 New Taipei Banqiao branch, 台北市政府 conducted unannounced inspections at 4 愛爾麗診所 branches in the city. No pinhole cameras or other illegal activity were found, but the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office is continuing its investigation. Concerns about protecting the public’s privacy have grown.
Meeting Belgian parliamentary delegation, Chiang Chi-chen says the 2 countries share democratic and human rights values
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Yuan 江啟臣 met with a delegation of Belgian federal House of Representatives members, emphasizing that the 2 countries share the values of democracy and human rights. He expressed hope that regular exchanges would deepen mutual understanding and trust and advance bilateral relations.
OpenAI president reveals nearly US$30 billion stake, raises questions about financial ties with CEO
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
OpenAI co-founder and president Greg Brockman disclosed that he holds shares in the company worth about $30 billion and revealed financial ties with CEO Sam Altman. The details emerged in testimony related to a lawsuit filed by Elon Musk.
Polish prime minister seeks de-escalation, saying bid for US troops should not undermine European unity
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said at the 8th European Political Community (EPC) summit that the presence of US troops contributes to Poland’s security but does not undermine European unity. He also expressed hope for easing tensions between Europe and the United States and spoke about support for Ukraine and strengthening cooperation with other countries.
Kaohsiung’s Dali Skyland suspends operations after part falls from miniature train and injures people
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A component of an aerial mini-train fell at Kaohsiung’s Dali Sky Park, injuring 1 passenger in the knee. The attraction was temporarily suspended and a full inspection will be carried out. Dali said it was assisting the injured person and would address the matter going forward.
Chen Chao-yi delivers quality start in spring league, leading Taiwan CPC to victory and a place in the final 8
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan Cooperative Bank (Kainan University) defeated 台北興富發 3-2 in the spring baseball league to advance to the top 8. Pitcher 陳趙羿勳 delivered a strong performance, allowing 1 run over 7 innings, and 葉駿宏’s go-ahead hit secured the win.
Cybersecurity conference opens as Taiwan’s 3 major telecom operators showcase their capabilities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the CYBERSEC 2026 Taiwan Cybersecurity Conference, 中華電信, 台灣大哥大 and 遠傳電信, the 3 major telecom operators, showcased their respective cybersecurity solutions. The offerings included AI-powered defense, one-stop services and measures to strengthen corporate security from monitoring and operations through to defense.
Moscow’s mobile internet suffers widespread outage ahead of Russia’s Victory Day parade
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A major mobile network disruption hit Moscow ahead of Russia’s Victory Day parade. Authorities tightened communications restrictions as a security measure amid concerns about Ukrainian drone attacks, disrupting daily life for residents.
[Chita Peninsula, Aichi] We’ve created a BBQ experience you won’t cancel, even in the rainy season or scorching heat.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Wood Design Park Noma on the Chita Peninsula in Aichi Prefecture has expanded its indoor play equipment for its day-use BBQ plan with a trailer house, and will run a campaign from May 9 to July 17, 2026, offering an experience that can be enjoyed even during the rainy season or extreme heat. The regular price of ¥15,000 will be reduced to ¥10,000.
[速報] CLUB REBASE wins its 2nd consecutive title in the Tokyo preliminary round of the 97th Intercity Baseball Tournament and the 19th JABA Kanto Club Championship.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
CLUB REBASE won its 2nd consecutive title in the Tokyo preliminary round of the 97th Intercity Baseball Tournament and the 19th JABA Kanto Club Championship. It beat 全府中野球倶楽部 3-2 in the semifinals and REVENGE99 5-4 in the final, taking a major step toward qualifying for the Intercity Baseball Tournament.
The 2 finalists advancing to the final evaluation on episode 11 of “WORLD SCOUT: THE FINAL PIECE” have been decided! LE SSERAFIM’s SAKURA cheers on the eliminated contestants.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On episode 11 of “WORLD SCOUT: THE FINAL PIECE,” the audition program by HYBE × Geffen Records aired on ABEMA, AYANA and SAKURA were named as the 2 contestants advancing to the final evaluation. LE SSERAFIM’s SAKURA encouraged those who were eliminated, while the finalists will join the debut lineup for the final showdown.
[Dior] Celebrities wearing Dior at the 2026 Met Gala
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
At the 2026 Met Gala, numerous celebrities appeared wearing Dior. Sabrina Carpenter, Jisoo, Naomi Watts, Alexa Chung, Karlie Kloss and Miranda Kerr, among others, wore Dior haute couture and fine jewelry, drawing attention with their glamorous looks.
Birthday merchandise and birthday voice recordings for VTuber 偉雷アマエ, a member of Sony Music’s VTuber project “VEE,” are now on sale!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Sony Music Entertainment’s VTuber project “VEE” has begun taking orders for birthday merchandise featuring newly drawn illustrations and newly recorded voice recordings to celebrate the birthday of its VTuber member 偉雷アマエ.