North Korea's new constitution removes references to socialism; expert says it seeks to become a normal country
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
North Korea has amended its constitution, removing the name “Socialist Constitution” and language related to unification policy. Experts say this is an attempt by North Korea to become a “normal state.” The amendment also strengthens the authority of State Affairs Commission Chairman Kim Jong Un and explicitly stipulates the right to use nuclear weapons.
Interview/From finance to aviation: Chiu Chang-hsin spent 25 years honing his expertise and is set to take the helm at Tigerair Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Qiu Zhangxin will become the new general manager of Taiwan Tigerair. He moved from the financial industry to aviation and is an aviation expert with 25 years of experience at China Airlines. His experience across various departments and crisis-management skills are seen as assets, and he is expected to lead Taiwan Tigerair’s innovative development.
Oneness Biotech's topical cream Bonvadis approved for sale in Thailand
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
合一生技公司 announced that its topical cream Bonvadis had received marketing approval from Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (ThaiFDA) as a medical device for full-thickness wounds. The approval allows sales in Thailand, and the company aims to expand its business in the wound-care market for people with diabetes.
U.S. to cut troops in Germany; Poland willing to host redeployed forces to bolster NATO's eastern flank
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Poland voiced opposition to the U.S. decision to reduce some of its troops stationed in Germany, but said it was willing to host those forces in Poland if the reduction went ahead. The move is intended to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank.
Jiang Kun-yu's bunt attempt turns into a hit; Brothers' coach praises him for getting back to his old self
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中信兄弟 player Chiang Kun-yu recorded a three-hit game in extra innings after turning a failed bunt attempt into a hit. Manager Keiichi Hirano said the tactic had failed but praised his intent to advance the runner, adding that Chiang was regaining his usual hitting form.
Caries rate among New Taipei schoolchildren falls by more than 16% in 6 years as tooth-brushing policy takes effect
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The New Taipei City Government said the rate of tooth decay among elementary school students fell by 16.15% over the past 6 years. The decline followed effective policies including brushing after meals, using fluoride toothpaste, banning sugary drinks and having regular checkups.
MAC advisory committee member: Cross-strait religious exchanges are a tool of Beijing's united front operations against Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Mainland Affairs Council advisory committee member said cross-strait religious exchanges serve as a tool for United Front work against Taiwan, and that the Chinese Communist Party is using messaging such as “ancestral temples” and “both sides of the Strait share the same roots” to undermine the autonomy of Taiwan’s religious culture. The member urged the government to respond cautiously.
White Terror Remembrance Day approaching; Executive Yuan परिसर opens for special tours on May 15
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Executive Yuan announced that it will hold special guided tours at its grounds on May 15 to mark White Terror Remembrance Day on May 19. The event aims to advance transitional justice and help preserve historical memory.
Auras Technology earns NT$12.61 per share in first quarter, a record; posts earnings equal to 1 share's par value for 3 consecutive quarters
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Cooling manufacturer 雙鴻(Shunhong)posted a record first-quarter EPS of 12.61 yuan on strong demand for liquid-cooling systems for AI data centers. Its share price fell today, however, amid rumors of design changes to NVIDIA’s new platform.
Vice president: Peng Kuang-li's wish is to obtain a Taiwan ID card and become part of the big family
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim announced that President Lai Ching-te had awarded the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon to Peng Kuang-li, former director of the Democratic Progressive Party’s representative office in the United States. Peng hopes to obtain Taiwanese identification and become a member of Taiwanese society.
Economic Affairs Ministry promotes sharing of geothermal exploration results to help shorten early-stage development by 3 to 5 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs Geological Survey and Mining Management Center has begun sharing geothermal exploration results and said this could shorten the initial stage of geothermal development by 3–5 years. This would significantly reduce uncertainty and risk in early-stage development.
Middle East conflict disrupts aviation industry; fewer travelers to Thailand hit tourism recovery
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Middle East conflict has driven up jet fuel prices and led airlines to cut flights, pushing airfares higher. The number of foreign tourists visiting Thailand from January through April this year fell 3.45% year on year. The tourism industry in Southeast Asian countries that rely on visitors from the Middle East, including Thailand, has consequently seen a slower recovery, affecting the hotel industry as well.
Reuters: Pakistani sources say U.S. and Iran close to signing memorandum to end war
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
路透社 reported, citing Pakistani sources, that the United States and Iran were on the verge of signing a 1-page memorandum aimed at ending the Persian Gulf war. The memorandum is expected to include a halt to Iran’s uranium enrichment activities, the lifting of U.S. sanctions and the removal of restrictions on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Taiwan’s stock market broke through the 41,000-point level to reach a record high. Foreign capital inflows also drove the New Taiwan dollar sharply higher against the U.S. dollar, closing at 31.488.
Taiwanese President's Office concert features DAI Hsiao-chun performing moon lute with Navy Band
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Pingtung Paiwan singer Dai Hsiao-chun will perform with the Navy Band at a Presidential Office concert in Pingtung on May 23. The performance will be Taiwan’s first attempt to combine the moon lute with a military band, and will also express her feelings for her father.
DarkSky International marks Mother's Day with visit to Lalashan, bringing together floral art, forest and stargazing experiences
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taiwan Dark-Sky Association will hold the “Lala Mountain Mother’s Day Dark-Sky Ecology Experience Tour” on May 9. The event follows Taoyuan City Government’s application for international dark-sky destination certification and combines flowers, nature and ecological experiences, from daytime activities to nighttime stargazing.
Chinese Communist Party state media: Overseas returnees should not be stigmatized
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Chinese Communist Party’s Economic Daily published a commentary arguing that Chinese talent returning from overseas should not be disparaged as “second-rate” or “spies.” The article said that “competition among major powers is competition for talent,” and stressed that China should value talent exchanges and create an environment where researchers can work with peace of mind.
ASEAN summit set to open, focusing on energy, food and safety of overseas nationals
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 48th ASEAN summit is being held in Cebu City, where Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that energy, food and the safety of citizens living overseas would be key agenda items. Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, member states will discuss securing and diversifying stable energy supplies, strengthening food security and protecting citizens abroad.
Taiwan’s Control Yuan said decision-making responsibility was fragmented in the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Investment Commission review of Chinese capital in 蝦皮, and that the company’s store pickup service posed potential risks. It called on the Ministry of Digital Affairs to establish a tiered management mechanism for cross-border data transfers.
Nantou Environmental Protection Bureau estimates it will take 25 years to burn all county garbage after incinerator is completed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Nantou County’s Environmental Protection Bureau predicts that it will take more than 25 years to process all the county’s garbage once the new incinerator is operational. County councilors have raised concerns about a lack of transparency and a loss of public trust.
Ruling and opposition parties fail to reach consensus on special defense bill; Legislature may vote as early as the 8th
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Cross-party negotiations were held at Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan on a draft special defense bill, but lawmakers failed to reach agreement on procurement items and amounts. The bill is expected to come to a vote as early as May 8. The ruling and opposition parties remain divided over the size and allocation of the defense budget.
M31 General Manager Chang Yuan-hsun said first-quarter performance was below expectations, mainly because of delays in customer projects. With sales showing signs of recovery in April, the company is maintaining its goal of double-digit revenue growth this year.
勤誠 in transition between old and new projects; April revenue rises 4.6% year over year, with growth slowing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
勤誠 reported April revenue of NT$2.06 billion, up 4.6% year on year but down 17.6% from the previous month. The decline came during a transition between old and new projects. The company expects the boom in data center hardware construction to continue as demand for AI applications grows, and is working to optimize production capacity and material procurement.
Taiwanese companies take part in Seoul AI EXPO for first time, expanding Taiwan-South Korea industry cooperation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
16 Taiwanese companies took part in AI EXPO KOREA 2026 for the first time, showcasing an industry chain “from chips to applications.” They are focusing on easing GPU shortages, data sovereignty and AI adoption in manufacturing, and aim to expand cooperation with the South Korean market.
High-temperature alert for southern Taiwan on the 7th; rain spreads across Taiwan on the 8th, with conditions stabilizing on Mother's Day
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration warned of temperatures of 36 degrees or higher in Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingtung on the 7th. On the 8th, a front and the northeast monsoon are expected to bring rain across the island. The weather is forecast to improve on the 10th, Mother’s Day, with conditions turning from cloudy to sunny.
After 20 years saving lives in Taitung, Taitung Christian Hospital's Wu Chia-min receives Nightingale Award
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Wu Chia-min, head nurse in the emergency department at Taitung Christian Hospital, received the Special Contribution Award at the 15th Nightingale Awards in recognition of her 20 years of contributions to emergency medical care. Her long-term dedication has helped strengthen the region’s emergency medical system amid Taitung County’s limited medical resources.
Tri-Service General Hospital Penghu Branch receives mobile medical clinic vehicle to serve outlying island communities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
沃亞科技 donated a mobile medical vehicle worth about NT$2 million to 三総澎湖分院, helping improve local medical services on outlying islands. The donation will give Penghu residents access to higher-quality medical care.
Lixing Company, a subsidiary of 台灣金聯, has partnered with 土地銀行 to launch a comprehensive service for older adults combining real estate rental management and trust services. This will enable older adults to rent out their homes and use the income to cover living expenses in retirement, helping them live with peace of mind.
Retired Major Lu Li-shih may have violated the law; MAC says Veterans Affairs Council will investigate
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After retired Taiwanese Major Lu Li-shih made pro-China remarks at a Chinese mainland naval event, the Mainland Affairs Council asked the Veterans Affairs Council to investigate him on suspicion of violating the Cross-Strait Act. His remarks are seen as aligning with the Chinese Communist Party.
The Chiayi District Prosecutors Office said, in response to reports of a search of the Institute of Criminology at National Chung Cheng University, that no arrest warrant had been issued and no one had been forcibly taken away. Those involved cooperated voluntarily, and everyone went home after giving explanations.
富邦人壽 has begun construction of the Fubon Life Hukou Logistics Park in the Hsinchu Hukou Industrial Park. It aims to complete the project in 2029, building 3 large logistics facilities featuring automated warehouses and cold-chain functions, and expects to create about 800 jobs.
Finance Ministry: Influencers, regardless of size, must pay taxes as required by law if they meet the criteria
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's 財政部 has renewed its call for stricter tax compliance among influencers. Regardless of their scale, influencers who meet the criteria for business tax and income tax are legally required to pay taxes, while those who have not complied have until June 30 to do so.
The ruling and opposition parties have failed to agree on the size of Taiwan's special defense budget. The Ministry of National Defense criticized the opposition for not explaining the rationale behind proposals for 380 billion yuan and 800 billion yuan, and stressed that strengthening defense capabilities requires a comprehensive plan.
Hantavirus death reported on Dutch cruise ship; local experts say there is no need for undue panic
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An outbreak of hantavirus infection aboard a Dutch-flagged passenger ship has killed 3 people, but domestic experts say there is no need for excessive alarm. Infection is primarily spread by rodents, and efficient human-to-human transmission is rare. However, the Andes virus strain in South America has caused limited human-to-human transmission, so caution is warranted.
Axios: U.S. and Iran close to reaching deal to end war
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. news site Axios reported that the United States and Iran are nearing an agreement on a memorandum aimed at ending the war in the Middle East. International oil prices fell sharply following the report.
Taiwan Sumitomo estimates new vehicle market at 420,000 units, bullish on C-SUVs and hybrid vehicles
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan Sime Darby Kia forecasts Taiwan's new-car market at 410,000 to 420,000 vehicles in 2026, with C-SUVs and hybrid vehicles expected to be the main drivers of market growth. Against the backdrop of the launch of the new Sportage and strong performance by existing models, the company has set a sales target of 11,000 vehicles for this year.
The 2026 Asia-Pacific Agricultural Technology Exhibition was held in Tainan, where the city set up the Tainan Smart Agriculture Pavilion to showcase mature application models and innovative materials. The city aims to take its smart agriculture expertise to the world.
Genesis Social Welfare Foundation has raised only 4 tenths of funding for new Chiayi facility; Hsu Nai-lin lends support with diverse donations
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
創世基金會 has raised only 40% of the NT$400 million needed to build its new facility in Chiayi, prompting entertainer Hsu Nai-lin to appeal for support as a goodwill ambassador. Through diverse donation methods, he is calling for support for patients in a vegetative state and those who are severely bedridden.
Reports say a foreign worker in Taiwan sold abortion pills online and acted as an intermediary for illegal abortions, prompting an investigation by 移民署. The agency has identified 1 foreign national legally residing in Taiwan and is continuing to verify relevant evidence.
Taipei residents fear pets may eat rat poison amid rodent concerns; how to understand the dangers and protect pets
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A rat problem has been reported in Taipei, raising concerns about the risk of pets accidentally ingesting rodent poison. The article details the dangers of rodent poison, ways to protect pets, and symptoms of accidental ingestion, and urges owners to stay alert.
Taiwan stocks rebound strongly in April; foreign investors' net inflows of $26.4 billion set monthly record
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's stock market rebounded sharply in April, with net inflows by foreign investors reaching US$26.42 billion, a record for a single month. As a result, cumulative net inflows through the end of April this year also hit a record US$44.272 billion.
Russia's return as an exhibitor sparks controversy; Venice Biennale preview opens amid turmoil
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Russia has returned to the Venice Biennale for the first time since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, as media previews got underway amid turmoil. The return has triggered the resignation of the jury, calls for a boycott, and threats of funding cuts from the EU.
Han Kuo-yu meets with cross-party New Zealand lawmakers, hopes to deepen Taiwan-New Zealand exchanges
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu met with a cross-party delegation of New Zealand lawmakers who support Taiwan, expressing a desire to deepen exchanges between Taiwan and New Zealand in the economic, cultural, tourism, and education fields. The New Zealand delegation also expressed interest in strengthening ties and stressed the importance of friendship and cooperation between the two sides.
信錦 earns NT$0.35 per share in first quarter, a 3-year low; low-Earth-orbit satellite revenue grows quarter by quarter
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Bearing manufacturer 信錦 reported first-quarter earnings per share of 0.35 yuan, a 3-year low. Weakness in the PC market and foreign-exchange losses caused by the stronger yuan weighed on results, but sales related to low-Earth-orbit satellites rose sharply from a year earlier and are expected to drive future growth.
Yunlin young farmer impersonated in deepfake garlic-selling scam; public urged not to fall for it
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The face and voice of Lin Huang-chih, a young farmer in Yunlin County, were misused in deepfakes to promote a scam selling fake garlic products. Lin is urging consumers to be cautious and warning them not to fall for scams involving one-page websites or AI-generated videos.
Taipei Literature Film Festival screens 16 films exploring feminism and LGBTQ themes
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Taipei Literature and Film Festival will run from May 22 to June 4, screening 16 works in 43 showings centered on British writer Virginia Woolf and filmmaker Derek Jarman, from feminist and LGBTQ+ perspectives. A special screening will also feature a new film, Song of Prayer, by Japanese director Shunji Iwai.
Demolition of Yuanlin's Golden Empire in Changhua nearing completion; tendering could begin as early as the second half of the year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Demolition of the Golden Empire Building in Yuanlin City, Changhua County, is nearing completion, and the county government will make the investment plan available for public review by the 29th. The project could be offered for investment as early as the second half of this year and is slated for reconstruction as a mixed-use residential and commercial building. It will be Changhua County's first publicly funded urban renewal project.
Japan defense minister witnesses Self-Defense Forces fire anti-ship missile during U.S.-Philippines Balikatan exercises
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
During the Balikatan joint military exercises between the Philippines and the United States, Japan's Self-Defense Forces fired Type 88 surface-to-ship missiles for the first time, sinking a target vessel. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi witnessed the event, which underscored strengthened defense cooperation between Japan and the Philippines.
Indigenous boat, Eye of the Ocean, sets sail from Taitung's Sinlan Fishing Port on a round-island voyage
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ocean's Eye, a traditional Austronesian voyaging canoe jointly built by Indigenous peoples of Guam and Taiwan, set off from Xinlan Fishing Harbor in Taitung on a cultural voyage around the island. The project aims to pass on Indigenous boatbuilding and navigation skills and promote cultural exchange.
China has yet to announce Trump's visit; Beijing says it remains in communication with U.S.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China's Foreign Ministry said the United States and China are maintaining communication regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to China, but no official announcement has been made. The U.S. Treasury secretary is planning a visit for May 14-15 and also stated China's position on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Lai Ching-te outlines policies: NT$100,000 childbirth subsidy, parental leave can be taken by the day
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te announced plans to expand childcare support, including increasing birth subsidies to NT$100,000 and allowing childcare leave benefits to be claimed on a daily basis.
Hsinchu Science Park Bureau: Longtan Science Park Phase 3 covers about 104 hectares; planning review committee to review proposal next week
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Hsinchu Science Park Bureau has revived the Phase 3 expansion plan for the Longtan Science Park, disclosing that TSMC is interested in moving in if the relevant procedures are approved. The development area covers about 104 hectares. The plan aims to acquire the land after review by the National Science and Technology Council and a two-stage environmental impact assessment.
Unidentified Chinese snacks sold outside elementary school; Kaohsiung health bureau finds violation and imposes fine
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kaohsiung City Health Bureau cracked down on a street vendor selling Chinese-made snacks of unknown origin near an elementary school, seizing 2 bags of Chinese food products with no Traditional Chinese labeling and no identifiable supplier. The products will be discarded, and a fine of NT$30,000 to NT$3 million will be imposed for violating the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation.
Hsu Shu-yao launches 4-year plan to promote Bach harpsichord concertos
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Netherlands-based harpsichordist Hsu Shu-yao has announced “The Heart of Zimmermann,” a flagship project featuring performances of Bach's harpsichord concertos over 4 years, from 2026 to 2029. The Taiwan International Early Music Festival will also continue, presenting concerts with renowned performers from Taiwan and abroad.
AI-led new opportunities in sustainability: How small and medium-sized enterprises put ESG into practice
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At a forum titled “AI Navigating New Sustainable Business Opportunities: The Path to ESG Practices for SMEs,” representatives of 一之軒食品, the SME Credit Guarantee Fund, 光林智能科技, and 林銀杏國際 shared examples of small and medium-sized enterprises combining AI and ESG in sustainability practices, including AI-powered production management, ESG financing, and ecosystem-conscious lighting.
Reporter Lin Chen-you faces 17-year sentence for bribery and seeking classified information; 6 servicemen charged over videos advocating unification with China
Taichung man suspected of driving under the influence of drugs and causing a crash; police issue citation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A drug-driving traffic accident occurred in Taichung, and police issued a citation after a man surnamed Yang tested positive for drugs. They are awaiting the results of a urine test to determine whether he will face criminal liability.
Southeast Asian economic news roundup for May 6, 2026. It covers economic developments across ASEAN countries, including AI and technology cooperation between Vietnam and India, Laos’s population statistics, Singapore’s housing market, the Philippines’ unemployment rate, port activity in Myanmar, Malaysia’s adoption of biodiesel, rising tourist numbers in Thailand, an increase in the number of factories in Cambodia, and sluggish economic growth in Indonesia.
Consumers alarmed by suspected hidden cameras at 愛爾麗診所; New Taipei receives 4 complaints
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A pinhole camera was suspected of being hidden in a smoke detector at an 愛爾麗診所 clinic in New Taipei City, prompting 4 complaints to consumer protection officials. Consumers are seeking refunds and compensation, and consumer protection officials in New Taipei City and Taipei City are coordinating an administrative investigation.
When AI meets ESG: New book reveals opportunities for corporate transformation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中央社 has announced a new book, “When AI Meets ESG,” exploring how AI could accelerate companies’ ESG efforts and green transitions. Through numerous corporate case studies, it presents strategies and challenges for using AI in sustainable business management.
All Hong Kong Legislative Council members plan to travel to Beijing in July for a study session on China's national conditions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hong Kong Legislative Council President Starry Lee announced plans for all 90 lawmakers to visit Beijing in July for a “study of national conditions.” It would be the first visit by the full legislature since the 1997 handover of sovereignty. The trip aims to deepen lawmakers’ understanding of national strategies, including China’s “十五五” plan, and strengthen coordination between Hong Kong’s development and mainland policies.
Security company executive suspected of stealing NT$60 million from vault; Criminal Investigation Bureau arrests him and refers case for prosecution
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A vault manager at a security company in Taiwan was arrested for embezzling about NT$60 million over roughly 2 years to pay gambling debts. The Criminal Investigation Bureau is investigating.
Six months have passed since Japanese Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi’s parliamentary remarks about a “Taiwan contingency,” and Japan-China relations have deteriorated. Japanese media report that a Japan-China summit is unlikely this year and that relations are not expected to improve in the short term.
Legislature gives initial approval to Resource Recycling and Reuse Act; management to cover entire product life cycle
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Legislative Yuan’s Social Welfare and Environmental Hygiene Committee passed an initial review of a draft amendment to the Resource Recovery and Reuse Act, renaming it the Resource Circulation Promotion Act and expanding management across the entire life cycle of products. The bill would promote resource circulation from design through recovery and reuse, and introduce a sandbox mechanism to encourage industrial transformation.
Economic Affairs Ministry: Nuclear power plant No. 4 fuel rods cannot be used at Nuclear power plant No. 3; overseas shipment would save NT$150 million annually
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs said that fuel rods from Nuclear Power Plant No. 4 (Lungmen) cannot be used at Nuclear Power Plant No. 3 (Ma-anshan), and that shipping them overseas in 2018 resulted in annual savings of NT$150 million. The ministry stressed that the plants have different designs and fuel-rod specifications, making the rods incompatible for nuclear safety reasons.
Chiang Wan-an delivers report on general budget; KMT, DPP and TPP councilors focus questions on rodent problem
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an presented the general budget proposal, but lawmakers focused their questions on the rat problem. Opposition lawmakers pointed to rat infestations at city hall and schools and voiced concern over a shortage of rat poison antidotes. Chiang said the city would make every effort to tackle the problem.
Kinmen's Mini Three Links customs seize 100 kilograms of illegally pooled Chinese food products in smuggling crackdown
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kinmen County Harbor Bureau, customs authorities, the Coast Guard, and port police worked together to uncover the illegal collection and smuggling of Chinese agricultural products and food using the Mini Three Links. They seized 50.7 kg of dried shiitake mushrooms and 357.8 kg of items including luosifen and Jiangxi rice noodles, saying the activities violated the Customs Anti-Smuggling Act and the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation.
The key to keeping out rodents is to seal holes first. Expert: Look for signs of mice, cut off food sources and clean the environment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
New Taipei City’s Environmental Protection Department and pest-control experts say the key to dealing with rats is to seal holes first, keep the environment clean, and eliminate food sources. They stressed that this can reduce the risk of hantavirus infection and that chemical pest control should be a secondary measure.
Hunan fireworks factory explosion kills 26; company was fined only in February
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan Province, China, killed 26 people and injured 61. The factory was fined for violations in February this year, and many of its products are exported to Western markets. The factory is believed to have been operating at the time of the explosion.
Hai Kun submarine makes its 8th dive. Expert: Entering a critical testing phase
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s domestically built submarine Hai Kun conducted its 8th submerged test. Military experts believe the main objective was a torpedo-firing test, marking entry into the most important phase of testing. The program is progressing smoothly, with delivery expected in the future.
Chiayi's Machouhou Semiconductor Industrial Park seeks investors, offers rent-free first 2 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to the semiconductor supply chain’s expansion southward, the Chiayi County government has launched a second round of land recruitment for the Machouhou Semiconductor Industry Supply Chain Satellite Park. Working with 台糖, it is offering 44.47 hectares of land for lease and waiving rent for tenant companies for the first 2 years.
Threads launches messaging on desktop for the first time; group chats coming soon
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Meta has introduced messaging on the desktop version of its social platform Threads, allowing users to send and receive text and multimedia messages, edit messages, react with emojis, and manage spam. The volume of messages sent on Threads has risen 30% since the start of the year, reaching a weekly average of 350 million, and group chats are also expected to be added soon.
“Average” nurse-to-patient ratio angers nurses; Ministry of Health and Welfare: Calculation has never changed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Nursing groups in Taiwan are protesting the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s effort to legislate an “average nurse-to-patient ratio.” The ministry says the calculation method for the 三班護病比 has not changed and that encouraging hospitals to meet the target on a monthly average basis has been a longstanding practice.
Financial Supervisory Commission promotes asset tokenization, starting with bonds and gold
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission plans to start with bonds and gold as it promotes the tokenization of real-world assets (RWA). Relevant institutions have established an “RWA Token Platform Task Force” and are working to build the system, aiming for early implementation subject to feasibility and safety.
New Taipei combines AI and digital technology for disaster prevention, building a more resilient city
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The New Taipei City government announced plans to strengthen its disaster prevention and response system using AI and digital technology, aiming to become a “resilient smart city” capable of handling extreme climate change and compound disasters. The goal is to significantly improve disaster prevention and response efficiency and protect public safety.
Groundbreaking held for Hemei Health Center and Long-Term Care Welfare Building, creating a care hub for all ages
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Groundbreaking was held today for the new Health Center and Long-Term Care Welfare Building in Hemei Township, Changhua County. Changhua County Magistrate Wang Hui-mei said the complex will provide care services for all ages, from infants and young children to older adults, with facilities including a day care center and a parent-child center, in response to the aging population and to ease the burden of family caregiving.
Typhoon Hagupit forms, poses no direct threat to Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Central Weather Administration announced at 4:10 p.m. today that a tropical depression had developed into the light typhoon Hagupit (international name: HAGUPIT). The storm is forecast to move westward and is not expected to have a direct impact on Taiwan.
To address the rodent problem at Zhubei's Shuizhen Park, pavilion and wooden boardwalk to be removed; work to be completed by year-end
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Zhubei City Office in Hsinchu County plans to complete improvement work using ecological engineering methods by the end of the year to address water pollution and rat problems at Shuizhen Park. The work will include removing a pavilion and wooden boardwalk that had become hiding places for rats, with the aim of improving the park’s overall environmental quality.
The “Orchestra You Can Lie Down and Listen To,” which sells out every performance, will hold its first “Musical Special” and “Classical Special,” among other events, at Yokohama’s Osanbashi Pier. The earliest LINE presale starts May 6 (Wednesday, a public holiday)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Popular as the “orchestra you can listen to while lying down,” CHILL CLASSIC CONCERT has announced its performance program for the second half of 2026 at Osanbashi Pier in Yokohama. The first “Musical Special” will be held in September, followed by a “1990s and 2000s Special” in October and a “Classical Music Special” in November. Advance reservations through LINE open on May 6.
Dance crew “ODORI,” produced by Aile The Shota, to hold its first solo concert at Shibuya WWW
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Dance crew “ODORI,” produced by Aile The Shota, will hold its first solo concert at Shibuya WWW on January 25, 2027. Tickets will be available through an advance lottery and general sales, and a PREMIUM TICKET with special benefits will also be offered.