Mother’s Day gift, sorry it’s late! It didn’t arrive in time for Mother’s Day, but the “Mother’s Day Gifts: Sorry They’re Late! Top 10 Popular Picks” ranking is now live, featuring gifts that can be delivered as quickly as possible. Available exclusively from online stores open on Mother’s Day.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Mother’s Day information site 「母の日.me」 has published its “Mother’s Day Gifts: Sorry They’re Late! Top 10 Popular Picks” ranking for people whose gifts didn’t arrive in time for Mother’s Day. As e-gifts and same-day delivery become more widespread and demand for “sorry it’s late” gifts grows, the ranking, based on a survey, highlights the importance of expressing your feelings even if a gift arrives late.
Day 1 of the IRO-certified international rescue dog examination concludes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On May 8, 2026, Day 1 of the IRO-certified international rescue dog examination was held at the Yatsugatake International Rescue Dog Training Center. Judges and trainees from South Korea, the Czech Republic, Taiwan and Thailand took part. The dogs underwent search and obedience tests as well as medical checks.
Notice: “Disaster Preparedness Experience World” to be held May 16
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
公益社団法人名古屋青年会議所 will hold “Disaster Preparedness Experience World,” an event featuring hands-on activities for the public, at Asunal Kanayama on May 16. The event aims to raise awareness of “kinjo” (neighborly mutual aid) during disasters and offer families an enjoyable way to learn about disaster preparedness.
Captivating foreign tourists too! New Japanese-language learning material explores Japan’s “railway bento”／Captivating foreign tourists too! Discuss Japanese food culture through the theme of “ekiben”｜Native Camp Japanese
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The online Japanese conversation service “Native Camp Japanese” has added new learning material themed around “ekiben,” a Japanese food culture favorite among international tourists visiting Japan. Through videos and discussions, the material helps learners develop their knowledge of Japanese food culture and their ability to communicate in Japanese.
Notice: Limited-time “Extreme Selection Festival” rare draw in The Battle Cats
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ポノス株式会社 has launched the limited-time “Extreme Selection Festival” rare draw in the smartphone game The Battle Cats to celebrate its 13-and-1/2-year anniversary. New characters and various anniversary events are also being introduced to boost user engagement.
[A BL story of a bride from a foreign land] “The Marriage of Lala” by Tamekou set for release on Saturday, May 9, 2026; preorders now open!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社リブレ will release volume 9 of the popular BL comic “The Marriage of Lala,” by Tamekou, on May 9, 2026, and has opened preorders. The series has surpassed 2.2 million copies in circulation, and the story is entering its final arc.
キングスU18 #29 player 俊佑宮里 selected for “B.LEAGUE U18 International Training Camp 2026 in Australia”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
俊佑宮里 of キングスU18 has been selected for “B.LEAGUE U18 International Training Camp 2026,” which will be held in Australia starting May 9. The camp is part of the B.LEAGUE NEXT STAR PROJECT, which aims to develop and strengthen young players on the international stage. Participants will work to improve their skills and character through training at the specialist institution CoE and practice games.
Become a citizen journalist and report on Myanmar refugees: Recruiting participants for “Global Media Camp in Thailand”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Global Media Camp in Thailand,” which recruits citizen journalists to report on Myanmar refugees in Thailand, is being held. The program focuses on the harsh conditions under Myanmar’s military rule, the realities of refugees’ lives in Thailand and the challenges they face.
9 minutes on foot from Higashi-Yamatoshi Station: Self-storage facility “スペラボ東大和市駅店” to open June 1, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
UKCorporation, operator of the self-storage brand “スペラボ,” will open a new location, “スペラボ東大和市駅店,” on June 1, 2026, a 9-minute walk from Higashi-Yamatoshi Station on the Seibu Haijima Line. The facility is open to individuals and businesses and offers contactless, in-person-free contracts, access to units in as little as 1 hour, and dual security.
“Coco Spa” at Coco Garden Resort Okinawa will offer a limited-time special treatment using Okinawan brown sugar and chomeiso from May 1 to June 30, 2026. Drawing on Okinawa’s mineral-rich gifts, the treatment is designed to promote radiant skin and relaxation ahead of summer.
[Next-generation AI English conversation] “From studying English to wanting to speak it”: AI conversation app “LUNA” launches
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社TORICO has officially launched “LUNA,” an AI English conversation app that lets users speak English with the AI character Luna. Built around the concept of “fun first,” the app offers a natural, friend-like conversation experience for English learners who have struggled to stick with conventional efficiency-focused study, helping them continue learning.
[Monthly report] Have gaming PC prices settled in April 2026?｜独自 research by domestic gaming PC search site “gg”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“gg,” one of Japan’s largest gaming PC search sites, has published its monthly report on price trends for gaming PCs (BTO) in April 2026. It reports that prices varied by performance tier: entry-level and midrange models fell in price, while high-end models entered a “selective adjustment phase” after a temporary increase.
June 16 (Tue.), 19:00–, in Shibuya｜Small-group partnership-building event to accelerate sales growth for BtoC companies, for business owners and support firms!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A strategic partnership-building event for BtoC business owners and support firms will be held on June 16, 2026, at “KOBUSHI BEER LOUNGE & BAR,” operated by KOBUSHI MARKETING合同会社. Hosted by 岡本, representative of RASHISA, the event aims to accelerate BtoC business growth and create opportunities for collaboration through practical networking.
Yosuke Iida’s 1st single “I CHOOSE” set for release on Wednesday, June 17, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Musical theater actor 飯田洋輔 will release his 1st single, “I CHOOSE,” on June 17, 2026. The release also includes “Departure Bell,” with advance sales and a solo full-orchestra concert planned, making this welcome news for fans.
Enjoy supporting your favorites more casually! New-style collaboration cafe “ORBcafe,” specializing in takeout and merchandise, to grand open at “Shibuya Sakura Stage” on May 15
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ORB will grand open “ORBcafe Shibuya Sakura Stage,” a new-concept collaboration cafe specializing in takeout drinks and limited-edition merchandise, at Shibuya Sakura Stage on May 15. The cafe proposes a new way to enjoy supporting your favorites more casually, with a soft opening starting May 9.
34 brown sugar shochu fans’ “oshi-katsu” campaign reaches more than 40,000 people nationwide and secures 57 new retail locations
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The 1st phase of the “Brown Sugar Shochu: Oshi Brewery Ambassador” project run by 合同会社KAZAMI has concluded successfully. Over 5 months, 34 ambassadors reached more than 40,000 people nationwide, secured 57 new retail locations and generated consumption of more than 7,000 cups.
Wear a light, radiant glow. cui-cui SUMMER COLLECTION launches May 9
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Jewelry brand “cui-cui,” operated by 株式会社colors, will launch its SUMMER COLLECTION “Warm Core” on May 9, 2026. The collection features jewelry centered on sterling silver 925, with cool, delicate designs that express the lightness and airy feel of summer.
Hervé Chapelier launches e-gift service on its official online store. A new way to easily send gifts through social media or email
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hervé Chapelier has launched an e-gift service on its official online store. The service lets senders give gifts via social media or email without knowing the recipient's address, while recipients can choose their preferred color from a wide range of options.
May 17: A food stall serving seasonal firefly squid from Uozu, Hokuriku, and the fabled “Shinkiro Pork” alongside local sake will make its debut! “On the Road! Uozu Station Front Food Stall: Firefly Squid and Fabled Shinkiro Pork”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
魚津観光まちづくり株式会社 will make its first appearance with its “On the Road! Uozu Station Front Food Stall” at the local event “Yosshakoi!! CHOUROKU Festival” on May 17. It will serve seasonal firefly squid from Uozu and the fabled pork “Shinkiro Pork” alongside local sake, showcasing the region's culinary appeal.
South African fair-trade solar light “ソネングラス®︎” approved as an official WFTO member—a new possibility for fair trade in solar lighting
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ソネングラスジャパン announced that Sonnenglas®︎, which offers the fair-trade solar light “ソネングラス®︎,” has been approved as an official member of the WFTO (World Fair Trade Organization). The approval confirms that its fair-trade practices since its founding meet international standards and points to new possibilities for fair trade in solar lighting.
【SAK University】More than 100 new students begin campus life; pathway program applicants surpass 300
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SAK University Tokyo Innovation Campus welcomed more than 100 new students in April 2026, while applications to its pathway program surpassed 300. As an international education partner officially recognized by 英国国立エセックス大学, it provides practical IT education in Japanese with the aim of addressing Japan's IT talent shortage.
【4th National High School Student Policy Koshien】Dates and venues set for qualifying tournaments in 10 regions nationwide
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Japan Junior Chamber, Inc. has set the dates and venues for qualifying tournaments in 10 regions nationwide for the “4th National High School Student Policy Koshien.” The competition has expanded significantly from 3 regions last year, making it easier for more high school students to participate. It is a nationwide contest that encourages young people to develop policymaking skills and take part in solving social issues.
Study finds 65% of current high school students in the Reiwa era say they feel no sense of incongruity watching “サザエさん”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey of high school students nationwide by ワカモノリサーチ found that 65.2% said they felt no sense of incongruity watching the iconic anime “サザエさん.” This is because they accept the anime as part of everyday life or view it simply as fiction. Meanwhile, 34.8% said the family structure or setting felt out of place.
You think gambling is a world far removed from you—but have you ever gotten carried away with smartphone gacha or crane games?
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
合同出版株式会社 will release the new book “ギャンブルに脳がハックされる!?” by psychiatrist and novelist 蓮木蓬生 on May 9, 2026. The book explains the realities of gambling addiction and ways to recover, and sounds a particular warning about Japan's gambling environment.
QQEnglish has launched its “99 yen for the first month on all plans” campaign for new members, running for a limited time from May 1 to May 31, 2026. The campaign aims to help learners continue studying English and develop practical conversation skills.
[Second dancer announcement!]【Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026: Kanto and Kansai performances】Two principal dancers from a ballet company based in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, confirmed to perform!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
マーティ株式会社 announced that principal dancers 石井杏奈 and 中島貴大 from a ballet company based in Barcelona, Spain, will perform in the Kanto and Kansai performances of “Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026.” The event will bring Japanese dancers active in the international ballet world to Japan.
Companies mentioned：マーティ株式会社、バルセロナ・バレエ団、ヤマダバレエスタジオ、東京シティバレエ団、Ballet de Catalunya、バレエアカデミールルベ、ワシントンバレエスクール、カナダロイヤルウィニペグスクール、アルバータ・バレエ・スクール、アルバータ・バレエ団
To mark the conclusion of 夜宵草's original “LINEマンガ” webtoon “シークレットスターライブ,” 10 episodes will be available for free and 20 gift vouchers will be given away!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
LINE Digital Frontier announced that “シークレットスターライブ,” an original webtoon for the digital comic service “LINEマンガ” created by 夜宵草, has concluded. To mark the occasion, a campaign offering 10 free episodes and distributing 20 gift vouchers will run from May 9 to May 15.
About 50% kuromoji water: A new standard for salon-born dry shampoo, resetting oiliness while caring for the scalp
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Total beauty company uka will release “uka IZU KUROMOJI Dry Shampoo” on June 1, 2026, a new-concept dry shampoo containing about 50% distillate of Izu-grown kuromoji. It proposes a new standard that uses the power of plants instead of water to care for the scalp and reset oiliness.
A late spring arrives at 乳頭温泉郷… As the snow melts, the submerged forest of 秋扇湖 emerges. Enjoy visits to the hot springs amid fresh greenery at 乳頭温泉郷 ～休暇村乳頭温泉郷～
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
休暇村乳頭温泉郷 has announced the arrival of the snowmelt season, the appearance of 秋扇湖's mysterious “submerged forest,” and the opening of the Hachimantai Aspite Line. It is offering a plan to enjoy hot spring hopping amid fresh greenery and a buffet of Akita regional cuisine. Construction starting in 2027 will make the submerged forest inaccessible, making this year the last chance to see it.
Frankly, what kind of person is suited to PR work? Experts explain how to spot PR talent: key hiring points for executives and common traits of people who excel in PR! Video release campaign
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社カレー総合研究所 has released a video on the YouTube channel of its director, 井上岳久, explaining what to look for when hiring PR staff and the traits shared by successful PR professionals. To mark the release, it is running a campaign through May 10, giving introductory PR books to the first 2 viewers.
Music video “コリコグダンシング！” featuring “チャイロイコグマ” and “コリラックマ,” celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, released today, May 9, “Kogu Day”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
San-X released “コリコグダンシング！,” a dance music video featuring “コリラックマ” and “チャイロイコグマ” as the duo “コリコグ,” on May 9, “Kogu Day,” to mark the 10th anniversary of the Rilakkuma character “チャイロイコグマ.”
Companies mentioned：サンエックス株式会社、マッカチン企画、エイプリルズ、Nakamaoffice Inc.、SEGA MUSIC Inc.
A spectacular, immersive live entertainment experience arrives in Osaka for the first time! Step into the world of dinosaurs this summer vacation! “DINO SAFARI 2026” Osaka performances
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The immersive live entertainment experience “DINO SAFARI 2026” will be held in Osaka for the first time in August 2026. Realistic mechanical dinosaur suits developed by ON-ART will appear, with a total of 30 performances across 2 venues: ATC Hall and Grand Cube Osaka. General ticket sales begin May 9.
【Departing from Yokosuka Port and Shin-Moji Port】For June sailings only! Enjoy popular private state rooms! “東京九州フェリー Pair Tickets” go on sale with great perks!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ヴィーナストラベル has launched “東京九州フェリー Pair Tickets,” available for June sailings and offering use of popular private state rooms. Perks include dinner overseen by オーセントホテル小樽 and a free onboard Wi-Fi voucher, for an upgraded voyage departing from and arriving at Yokosuka Port or Shin-Moji Port.
“Hako-oshi BL Fair by eeo” runs at eeo Cafe through May 21! Must-have new merchandise featuring original illustrations and original drinks!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “Hako-oshi BL Fair by eeo” will run at eeo Cafe from May 9 to 21, with new merchandise featuring original illustrations and original drinks on sale. 9 publishers and 16 popular creators are participating, and products will also be available through the “eeo Store online” shopping site.
【BIRTHDAY BAR】A new store opens at “Echika Omotesando”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Sylvpree Echika Omotesando,” a gift shop operated by 株式会社ナイスクラップ, will reopen as “Cadeau de BIRTHDAY BAR” on June 16, 2026. Located inside Omotesando Station, the gift shop will offer items for treating yourself or bringing to someone special, including exclusive products.
Special Feature: His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Great Prophecy of the Underground Kingdom of Shambhala. The June issue of Monthly Mu is now on sale‼
Celebrating 2 years of serialization! “Dokagui Daisuki! Mochizuki-san” takes the cover, packed with special features! The June 1 issue of Young Animal ZERO goes on sale Saturday, May 9!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hakusensha released the June 1 issue of Young Animal ZERO on May 9 and announced special features celebrating the 2nd anniversary of the popular manga “Dokagui Daisuki! Mochizuki-san.” These include collaboration cafes in Tokyo and Osaka and a prize drawing for an original BIG hoodie.
Promotional video commemorating the release of volume 19 of The Five Star Stories now available!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KADOKAWA released a promotional video today, May 9, to mark the release of volume 19 of designer Mamoru Nagano’s manga The Five Star Stories. The June 2026 issue of Monthly Newtype, also released the same day, features the series on its cover, along with a wealth of articles and supplements.
[Achievement] “Shirogane Hamburger,” made with 100% purebred Nagoya Cochin chicken from Nanbu Shokkei, beat convenience stores and major food manufacturers to take 2nd place among 15 companies in Kansai TV’s “Doyo wa Nani Suru!?” THE100 People General Election!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Shirogane Hamburger,” made with 100% purebred Nagoya Cochin chicken from Nanbu Shokkei, took 2nd place among all 15 companies in the “THE100 People General Election,” a program segment on Kansai TV, beating major food manufacturers and convenience stores. It received high marks in tastings and voting by 100 consumers.
The “Queen of Wildflowers,” Shirane-aoi, will soon be at its peak! The “Shirane-aoi and Spring Wildflowers Festival (May 9–17)” starts today! (国営滝野すずらん丘陵公園)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “Shirane-aoi and Spring Wildflowers Festival” will be held at 国営滝野すずらん丘陵公園 from May 9 to 17. Around 1500 Shirane-aoi flowers will be in bloom, with guided tours led by volunteer guides and a free shuttle bus also available. The Tulip and Lily of the Valley Festa will follow, offering visitors a chance to enjoy spring flowers.
“Kate Stage Lash Kawagoe,” a salon in Kawagoe specializing in eyelash perms and Parisienne Lash Lifts, will launch a new “Eyelash Perm + Brow Wax Set” in May 2026—service details, prices and visitor guide
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Kate Stage Lash Kawagoe,” a salon in Kawagoe specializing in eyelash perms and Parisienne Lash Lifts, will begin offering its new “Eyelash Perm + Brow Wax Set” on May 1, 2026. The set combines 2 treatments that previously required separate appointments, improving convenience for customers and helping them achieve a coordinated overall look.
[First appearance] “Fortune Moon cake,” a specialty shop for crispy pies said to bring good fortune, arrives at the “14th National Gourmet Festival” at 新潟伊勢丹!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Fortune Moon cake,” a specialty shop for crispy pies said to bring good fortune, will make its first appearance at the “14th National Gourmet Festival” at 新潟伊勢丹, running from May 27 to June 1, 2026, where it will sell fresh custard pies. They feature aromatic pastry and rich fresh custard cream, and will be available in 5 flavors—caramel, almond, pistachio, framboise and plain—as well as mini pies.
The latest issue of Sarai features “A Guide to New Zoos and Aquariums.” It takes an in-depth look at leading facilities’ efforts to preserve species and protect the environment.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The June 2026 issue of Sarai, published by Shogakukan, goes on sale May 9. This issue’s main feature, “A Guide to New Zoos and Aquariums,” introduces leading facilities working to preserve species and protect the environment. It also includes a feature on exploring the world of coffee.
How would you choose to sell a property that cannot be rebuilt? [Survey results]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
URUHOME, operated by 株式会社ドリームプランニング, has released the results of a survey on ways to sell properties that cannot be rebuilt. Of the 289 respondents, 38.8% said they would “look online for a company specializing in properties with issues,” highlighting strong demand for specialist firms.
[A first in Japan] Step Golf and TSUTAYA join forces! The world’s largest indoor golf school plans to open its first location inside TSUTAYA, “Step Golf Plus Sapporo Kikusui,” this summer!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Step Golf has partnered with TSUTAYA and will hold the grand opening of “Step Golf Plus Sapporo Kikusui,” a world-class indoor golf school, inside TSUTAYA Sapporo Kikusui on July. Early enrollment begins May 9, bringing golf closer as part of everyday life.
Joint information session for leading international schools in Southeast Asia
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
OriginalGlobal Learner’s Institute (GLI)は、2026年5月から6月にかけて、東南アジアの有力インターナショナルスクールを招いた合同説明会を開催します。グローバル化とAI時代に対応した教育の選択肢として、シンガポール、マレーシア、タイの学校の教育内容、進学実績、費用などを比較検討できる機会を提供します。
Companies mentioned：Global Learner’s Institute (GLI)、株式会社鏑木教育コンサルティング、Stamford American International School、Brighton College(Singapore)、Australian International School、XCL World Academy、American School of Bangkok、Sri KDU Schools、RD American School
We will take part in 新潟伊勢丹’s “Randoseru Festival 2027.” May 13 (Wed.)–May 18 (Mon.)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
CHIKYU株式会社 will take part in the “Randoseru Festival 2027” at 新潟伊勢丹, exhibiting and selling around 50 new and collaboration models, including its “Chikyu NASA Randoseru®,” which uses shock-absorbing material developed by NASA. The event runs from May 13 to 18 and welcomes families.
For high school students torn between coeducational schools and women’s universities: Rooks Shijuku to hold a May 16 online event featuring a woman who entered a women’s university through comprehensive selection
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Rooks Shijuku will hold an online event on May 16, 2026, for high school students and parents deciding between coeducational schools and women’s universities. A woman who entered a women’s university through comprehensive selection will share her experiences. The event aims to ease anxiety about choosing a path by explaining what women’s universities are really like and offering tips on comprehensive selection.
[Additional enrollment due to strong interest] Spice expert Tsuyoshi Inoue shares his expertise “from soil to table”! Special course “Curry University: Spice-Focused Program”—master professional blending techniques in 1 day!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Curry University has announced additional enrollment for its special “Spice-Focused Program,” designed to train spice professionals. Tsuyoshi Inoue of 井上スパイス工業 will teach the course, where participants can learn practical spice-blending techniques in 1 day.
One of Japan’s oldest supermarkets, “Ginbuil Store,” marks its 70th anniversary. Special website tracing the history of postwar distribution opens to the public
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
One of Japan’s oldest supermarkets, “Ginbuil Store,” will mark its 70th anniversary on May 15, 2026, and open a special website tracing the history of postwar distribution to the public on May 12. Having weathered turbulent times through its community-based business, it announced a new vision to strengthen its role as a “hub that supports everyday life” through mobile supermarkets, online supermarkets and childcare support.
株式会社GANNEN established to produce advanced material “graphene” from waste batteries and change the world.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社GANNEN has been established to manufacture and sell graphene produced from discarded lithium-ion batteries. The company will use the world’s first technology developed by Taiwan’s Chuli Technology Co., Ltd., with the aim of mass-producing affordable, high-performance graphene.
Taipei Metro Xinyi Line Eastern Extension begins trial runs; timetable adjusted from 5/11
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei Metro’s Xinyi Line Eastern Extension will begin trial runs on May 11. Trains will depart from Guangci/Fengtiangong Station, but passengers will not be able to board or alight. Timetables will be adjusted slightly for the trial runs, so passengers should be aware of possible wait times.
Ukrainian sailboat in distress after rigging breaks; Penghu Coast Guard rescues it safely and escorts it into port
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Penghu Coast Guard rescued a Ukrainian-flagged sailboat that was adrift in Penghu waters after its mainsail rigging broke, and safely escorted its 3 crew members—a Russian couple and their child—to Waian Fishing Harbor. They were en route from Malaysia to Busan, South Korea.
On eve of Trump-Xi meeting, US sanctions Iran weapons supply chain, including Chinese and Hong Kong companies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ahead of a U.S.-China summit, 米国財務省 sanctioned 10 individuals and entities, including companies in China and Hong Kong. The entities are accused of helping procure raw materials needed to manufacture weapons, drones and missiles for Iran.
UK local election results show multiparty contest; ruling Labour suffers major defeat as calls to oust its leader resurface
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The ruling 労働党 suffered a major defeat in Britain's local elections, reigniting calls for party leader Keir Starmer to resign. The results point to a shift in British politics away from a 2-party system dominated by the 保守党 and 労働党 toward a more fragmented, multiparty landscape.
US military strikes 2 Iranian oil tankers, prompting retaliation; ceasefire agreement hangs by a thread
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A retaliatory attack followed after the U.S. military struck 2 oil tankers flying the Iranian flag, putting a fragile ceasefire agreement under strain. The United States is awaiting Iran's response to its latest proposal to end the war, drawing international attention.
Legislature passes arms procurement bill; Chiang Wan-an says he supports necessary and reasonable procurement
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Legislature passed an arms procurement bill worth NT$780 billion. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an said he firmly supports necessary and reasonable procurement, stressing that the budget should be spent where it is most needed. He also announced a citywide cleanup and disinfection campaign to prevent rodent infestations.
Trump: I will receive Iran's response tonight; hope negotiations make progress
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. President Trump said he expects to receive Iran's response tonight to the latest U.S. proposal to end the war in the Middle East. The proposal reportedly includes restrictions on Iran's nuclear program, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of U.S. sanctions.
National Development Fund becomes an anti-pitfall mechanism; Chen Ying-chih says it helps us screen out fake investment proposals
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
陳映志, chairman of 虎山實業, said the National Development Fund serves as a “risk-screening mechanism” to weed out “fake investment projects” and supports the company's investment decisions. Through co-investment with the fund, 虎山實業 selects promising investment targets and seeks to expand its business.
16 Chinese Communist Party aircraft and vessels operate around the Taiwan Strait; military closely monitors and responds
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense said 8 Chinese military aircraft and 8 vessels, 16 aircraft and vessels in total, operated around the Taiwan Strait from yesterday to today, with some crossing the median line. Taiwan's armed forces continue to maintain close surveillance and respond.
US strikes Iranian oil tanker attempting to break through; awaits Tehran's reply to ceasefire memorandum
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. Department of Defense said U.S. forces engaged Iran-backed militants and attacked 2 Iranian-flagged tankers. President Trump, however, said the ceasefire remains in effect and that the United States is awaiting Iran's response to a memorandum it proposed, which includes a 30-day ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Companies mentioned：美國財政部、NetBlocks、標普全球情報 (S&P Global Intelligence)、華爾街日報
3 major Ministry of Economic Affairs investment programs, each worth NT$10 billion, have received 550 applications, with total investment exceeding NT$40 billion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 3 investment programs worth NT$10 billion each, led by Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs and covering strategic manufacturing, strategic services and small and medium-sized enterprises, have completed 550 investments and supported 457 companies. The National Development Fund invested about NT$15.4 billion, catalyzing more than NT$24.7 billion in private investment and bringing the total investment to more than NT$40 billion.
Taiwan drone delegation visits Ohio to strengthen cooperation on non-red supply chains
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Taiwanese drone delegation visited Ohio and took part in the “SelectUSA Investment Summit,” seeking to strengthen cooperation with the state's aerospace and drone industries. The visit is part of strategic coordination between Taiwan and the United States to build non-China supply chains and protect democracy.
外交部東部辦事處 resumes mobile consular services in Taitung on 5/15
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
外交部東部辦事處 announced that its “mobile consular services” in Taitung, suspended last year because of budget cuts, will resume on May 15. Taitung residents will be able to handle procedures such as passport renewals and reissues locally.
Fine Rice Awards: Taitung rice wins 3 gold awards and 1 online popularity award
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taitung rice won 3 Gold Awards, 1 Silver Award and 1 online popularity award at the 2026 農糧署 “Quality Rice Awards.” The results showcase the rice's high quality and excellence in production and sales management.
Hantavirus cluster on cruise ship rises to 6 cases; US considers sending charter plane to bring back US passengers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius has grown to 6 cases, with 3 deaths. The U.S. CDC announced plans to repatriate 17 U.S. passengers on a medical charter flight.
Suspected oil slick appears off Iran's Kharg Island; source unknown and slick continues to spread
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A major oil spill off Iran's Kharg Island has spread to more than 52 square kilometers. The incident has raised concerns about the vulnerability of Iran's oil infrastructure under the U.S. naval blockade.
Companies mentioned：Orbital EOS、衝突と環境観察組織 (Conflict and Environment Observatory)、Iran Open Data
Arms procurement bill passes; US supports it but says delaying other funding could amount to a concession to China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Legislative Yuan passed a special military procurement bill worth NT$780 billion. The U.S. State Department supports Taiwan's acquisition of defense capabilities but said delays in funding other programs amounted to “a concession to the Chinese Communist Party.”
Legislature passes arms procurement bill; US lawmakers say it will strengthen Taiwan's ability to deter China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Legislative Yuan passed a special military procurement bill worth NT$780 billion, seeking to strengthen the island's deterrence against Chinese provocations. U.S. lawmakers welcomed the move and said they hoped Taiwan would continue investing in asymmetric capabilities and domestic defense production.
Northern Taiwan noticeably cooler; Wu Derong says brief localized showers are expected in the north and east
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Weather expert 呉徳榮 said northern Taiwan will be cooler under the influence of a front, with brief rain expected in the north and east. The weather is expected to improve over the weekend, but another monsoon front will approach on the 12th and 13th, bringing rain again.
Canada census: Taiwanese and Hong Kong communities emphasize identity
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese and Hong Kong communities are running campaigns during Canada's census to emphasize their identities as “Taiwanese” and “Hong Kongers.” They aim to promote recognition of their distinct cultures and backgrounds, separate from those of Chinese communities, and influence policymaking.
Exhibition So This Is What Indigenous Music Sounds Like traces the history of Indigenous music, opens in Pingtung
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The “原音如此流行” exhibition, co-hosted by the Taiwan Indigenous Peoples Culture Development Center and the Taiwan Music Institute, opened in Pingtung. It explores the history of Indigenous music through the lens of popular music and is also scheduled to tour Chiayi.
World train station rankings: Zurich Central Station named the most luxurious
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In a ranking by British travel insurance company ALLClear, Zurich Hauptbahnhof in Switzerland was named the world's most luxurious station, taking 1st place among 40 major stations. Stations in Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo took 2nd through 4th place, while Taipei Station ranked 20th.
Czech Senate showcases results of Taiwan-Czech exchanges; Legislative Yuan gavel and China Airlines model on display
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Czech Senate held an exhibition commemorating the end of World War II, displaying items highlighting its friendship with Taiwan, including the “Parliamentary Diplomacy Honor Medal, First Class,” a commemorative gavel from Taiwan's Legislative Yuan and a China Airlines model. The exhibition highlights the results of deepening Taiwan-Czech ties in recent years.
Good Morning World》 National Defense Special Act sets budget ceiling at NT$780 billion; president hopes ruling and opposition parties will quickly build 7 major defense capabilities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Legislative Yuan passed a special defense bill setting a cap of NT$780 billion on military spending. While this will allow some key arms procurements to proceed, items such as drones and command-and-control systems remain incomplete, prompting the president to call for further cooperation and stronger defense capabilities.