New York’s renowned ベンジャミン ステーキハウス Roppongi location launches an anniversary course celebrating steakhouse tradition in appreciation of its 9th anniversary
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
New York’s renowned Benjamin Steak House Roppongi location is celebrating its 9th anniversary with a commemorative course featuring 28-day dry-aged T-bone steak, available for a limited time from June to August 2026.
【Art】“we are weavers,” an exhibition of works by Japanese and European weavers, Directed by Public Crafts, opens May 13 (Wednesday) at アルフレックス リストア in Futako-Tamagawa
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Arflex Japan will hold a weaving art exhibition in Futako-Tamagawa from May 13, showcasing works by Japanese and European weavers and presenting limited-edition sofa covers made from recycled kimono fabric.
Keyword Marketing named a 2026 certified “Select” partner in the “LINE Yahoo Partner Program”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
キーワードマーケティング was named a 2026 certified “Select” partner in the “Sales Partner” category of the “LINE Yahoo Partner Program” and received the “Ads Policy Badge LINE Yahoo Ads Display Ads (Managed).” The recognition reflects the company’s expertise and track record in managed advertising.
Serverworks employee named an “AAI Champion” in the AWS Authorized Instructor Program AAI
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Serverworks employee Tetsuya Izawa has been named an “AAI Champion” in the AWS Authorized Instructor Program (AAI). The recognition will help improve the quality of the company’s official AWS training and strengthen its support for developing corporate cloud talent.
AsiaQuest advances development of an enterprise-wide data platform to build an AI-native organization
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Asia Quest announced the launch of a data infrastructure initiative, aiming to become an “AI-native organization” in which all employees use AI by the end of 2026.
Taking Japanese series drama projects to the world: Overseas pitching support program “Japan Drama First Look: Co-Pro Pitch” launches; program information session for BCWW (South Korea) applications to be held on May 21
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Visual Industry Promotion Organization (VIPO) has launched “Japan Drama First Look: Co-Pro Pitch,” an overseas pitching support program for series drama projects. As its first event, it will hold an online information session on May 21 for BCWW (Broadcast World Wide) in South Korea, and is inviting producers and directors to participate.
Allied Architects launches its “Untapped Customer Acquisition Package,” using CEPs Listening®︎ to make non-customers visible and directly inform marketing initiatives
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Allied Architects launches its “Untapped Customer Acquisition Plan,” combining AI-powered VOC data analysis with CEPs Listening to help companies progress from defining potential customer segments to executing marketing initiatives.
South Korea-origin 7-member multinational boy group “CLOSE YOUR EYES” joins “bubble for JAPAN”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
South Korean 7-member boy group “CLOSE YOUR EYES” has officially joined “bubble for JAPAN,” a Japanese fan messaging platform offering two-way communication.
Companies mentioned:株式会社Fanplus、株式会社Dear U plus、株式会社Dear U
Don’t stop at views: Explaining short-form video strategies for the AI era [Online seminar on May 20 (Wednesday) at 13 hours]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Owned株式会社 will hold a free online seminar on May 20 focusing on short-form video strategies for the AI era. It will explain strategies for driving business results beyond view counts, as well as AI-powered production and personalization techniques, for marketing professionals and business leaders.
From メゾン クリヴェリ, the maison that transforms personal experiences into fragrance, comes a new scent centered on musk, “Musc Nurāsana”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
French fragrance brand Maison Crivelli will launch “Musc Nurāsana,” a new fragrance centered on musk, in May 2026, evoking the vitality of morning sunlight.
[Available from May 12] Free streaming begins for the seminar “Up to ¥30 million: Explaining Chiba Prefecture’s labor-saving investment subsidies!” [助成金なう]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
助成金なう, operated by 株式会社ナビット, will begin streaming a free online seminar on May 12 explaining labor-saving investment subsidies of up to ¥30 million for small and medium-sized businesses in Chiba Prefecture. The subsidies support capital investment and digital transformation by businesses that raise wages or invest, with the aim of addressing labor shortages and improving productivity.
Modern Buddhist altar flagship store “Gallery Memoria Tokyo Nihonbashi” to open on Oct. 20 (Wednesday)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社八木研 will open “Gallery Memoria Tokyo Nihonbashi,” its flagship store for modern Buddhist altars, on Oct. 20, 2021. As the successor to its closed Ginza store, it will showcase items including the “Grand Cru Series,” the pinnacle of modern Buddhist altars, under the concept of “Japanese spirit, Western ingenuity,” and propose new forms of prayer.
Modern Buddhist altar showroom “Gallery Memoria Osaka Umeda” to open at Grand Front Osaka on June 1 (Friday)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Modern Buddhist altar leader Yagiken will open western Japan’s largest modern Buddhist altar showroom at Grand Front Osaka on June 1, showcasing about 200 contemporary designs that combine furniture aesthetics with Buddhist altars.
[Modern Buddhist altars] “Grand Cru Series,” the pinnacle of the collection, unveiled at a new product preview
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社八木研 has unveiled the premium “Grand Cru Series” of modern Buddhist altars for affluent customers. New product previews will be held in Tokyo and Osaka in January 2018, showcasing items including “Prova” (¥4.8 million before tax), a collaboration with Matsuoka Furniture Manufacturing.
Taiwan attends Asia-Pacific dental federation congress, boosting participation in international public health
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan sent a delegation to the 47th Asia Pacific Dental Congress in Vietnam, where it met officials from around the world and the Asia Pacific Dental Federation at a “Taiwan Night” event. The president of the World Dental Federation praised Taiwan’s leadership in dental care, while the Taiwanese delegation expressed its intention to overcome diplomatic challenges and expand its contributions to international public health.
Tainan girl with ventricular septal defect avoids major surgery with minimally invasive catheter procedure
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 3-year-old girl in Tainan was born with a ventricular septal defect. After an assessment by Dr. Chen Jun-yu of 奇美醫院, she successfully underwent minimally invasive transcatheter closure, avoiding traditional open-chest surgery. Her recovery has been good.
Rising ensemble 晨邊高地弦樂四重奏 makes debut at 誠品 Chamber Music Festival
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The rising ensemble 晨邊高地弦樂四重奏 has been invited for the first time to perform at the 2026 誠品 Chamber Music Festival. It will perform Taiwanese composer Liang Chen’s piece Setting Out, along with several classics, showcasing its musical energy.
China says WHO participation must follow One China principle; MAC says it is unacceptable
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to China’s insistence that Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly (WHA) must follow the “One China” principle, Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council firmly rejected the position. It stressed that Taiwan is not part of the People’s Republic of China and cannot participate in international organizations under Beijing’s control, as Hong Kong does.
Trump-Xi summit nears; markets expect China not to increase US soybean purchases further
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As the Trump-Xi meeting approaches, market sentiment largely holds that China will not substantially increase purchases of U.S. soybeans. Under an agreement reached last October, China is due to buy at least 25 million tons of soybeans annually, but weak demand and lower-priced Brazilian soybeans have dampened expectations for additional purchases.
Junior high school comprehensive assessment exam to begin; Lu says exam shuttle service will continue
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen announced the continuation of the “Junior High School Exam Shuttle” and an increase in subsidies for students taking the Comprehensive Assessment Program for Junior High School Students. She also launched the “Taichung NO Rat Plan” to combat hantavirus syndrome, with citywide cleanup activities planned.
Local officials not invited to Tamkang Bridge opening? Chen says it was an internal blessing ceremony
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Controversy has arisen after local officials, including New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih, were not invited to an internal blessing ceremony held by 交通部 for the opening of the Danjiang Bridge. The transportation minister said it was an internal event and that the formal opening ceremony took place on a different date. New Taipei City questioned 交通部’s response while emphasizing that public safety and smooth traffic flow remain its top priorities.
0050 regular investment accounts top 1 million, ahead of TSMC’s 200,000 accounts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The number of regular fixed-amount investment accounts for 元大投信’s flagship ETF, Yuanta Taiwan 50 (0050), topped 1 million for the first time in April, far surpassing other ETFs and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). 0050 thus remains the leader in Taiwan’s stock market in investment scale, number of investors, and number of regular fixed-amount investors.
Japanese visitor scammed while buying Pili puppets in Taiwan; police apprehend suspect and refer case for prosecution
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In Taiwan, a Japanese fan of Pili glove puppetry was scammed after buying unauthorized Pili puppets and related accessories for about NT$68,000. Police arrested the suspect and referred the case for prosecution on charges of copyright infringement and fraud. Police are urging the public to beware of online scams.
BNP Paribas Life approved to conduct wealth management business, sees opportunities in Taiwan’s high-net-worth market
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
French insurer BNP Paribas Cardif Life Taiwan has officially launched wealth management services in Taiwan after receiving approval from the Financial Supervisory Commission. It has introduced new investment-linked insurance products for high-net-worth clients and plans to accelerate its expansion in the segment. The company is also considering entering Kaohsiung’s financial zone.
FIT Hon Teng: AI business growing strongly, targets humanoid robots and satellite communications
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
鴻海 subsidiary 鴻騰六零八八精密科技 expects significant growth this year in its cloud and data center business, underpinned by strong expansion in AI-related operations. The company plans to step up its entry into emerging applications such as humanoid robots and satellite communications, while also driving growth in its automotive business in the era of electrification and software-defined vehicles.
Driver accused of ramming Kaohsiung police after refusing to stop, shot 6 times, arrested and indicted
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A driver surnamed Huang, who refused a police stop in Kaohsiung City last year and collided with a police car, injuring an officer, was arrested in Tainan City and indicted on charges including obstruction of official duties. Police had fired 6 shots at the fleeing vehicle’s tires.
Lin Ming-hsin: AI and geopolitics reshaping global risks; Taiwan to deepen international cooperation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Lin Ming-hsin, a minister without portfolio at the Executive Yuan, said AI development and geopolitics are reshaping global risks. Taiwan will deepen international cooperation with like-minded partners and jointly explore models of digital governance that balance freedom and security.
Tamkang Bridge opens to traffic; Chen calls it a new Taiwan landmark
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Danjiang Bridge officially opened, and Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai said it would become an important landmark for New Taipei City. He also crossed the bridge with a convoy of vintage cars and thanked the construction team.
Research firm 群智諮詢 forecast that global shipments of AI servers will reach 3.7 million units in 2026, an increase of more than 50% year over year. The scaling up of generative AI models is making heterogeneous computing a core technology for AI servers, sharply increasing demand for computing power and storage.
Online claims of a Hantavirus national team are false, CDC says
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control warned that social media claims about the formation of a “Hantavirus National Response Team” and related stock gains are investment scams and misinformation. It urged the public not to believe the claims without scrutiny and to use the fraud reporting system.
Fengyuan Hospital promotes net-zero green living, earns Environment Ministry Green Dining Table certification
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Fengyuan Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare has received the Ministry of Environment’s “Green Dining Table” certification, demonstrating tangible progress in low-carbon diets, green healthcare, and environmental sustainability. The hospital is promoting a net-zero green lifestyle through locally sourced food in its staff cafeteria, more plant-based foods, and reduced use of disposable items.
Air Force One returns to Beijing; plane spotters excited
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
With U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to China, Air Force One is set to fly into Beijing for the first time in about 9 years, prompting excitement among Chinese aviation enthusiasts. Reports say numerous military transport aircraft have already arrived, and enthusiasts are preparing to film Air Force One’s nighttime landing.
Trump-Xi summit may discuss US arms sales to Taiwan; Foreign Ministry says China seeks to confuse and distort the facts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Asked about the possibility that the United States and China could discuss arms sales to Taiwan at the Trump-Xi meeting, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized China’s position as “unreasonable and baseless.” Taiwan stressed its commitment to working with the United States to build deterrence and safeguard peace.
In response to the Middle East situation, Cho says he has ordered advance deployment of oil and gas for the 4th quarter
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan Premier Cho Jung-tai ordered the early deployment of fourth-quarter oil and gas reserves in response to the impact of the Middle East situation on energy supplies. This will ensure there are no supply concerns through August and help achieve long-term supply stability.
Advances in AI data centers and silicon photonics technology have boosted optical communications stocks, and 大立光電 shares hit the daily limit after the company entered the co-packaged optics (CPO) field. The company aims to supply precision optical components for CPO, with mass production expected to take 1 to 2 years.
Taipei tests produce from wholesale markets for pesticide residues; chili peppers and celery among the most frequent failures
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taipei City Market Administration Office released the results of pesticide residue tests on vegetables and fruit at wholesale markets in April. Of 995 samples, 53 failed, with failures particularly common among chili peppers, celery and peas. All noncompliant products were recalled and discarded. The office is stepping up inspections of high-risk items.
Taiwan wins 16 Edison Awards; economics minister says technology is truly moving toward global applications
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan won 16 awards at this year's Edison Awards. Minister of Economic Affairs 龔明鑫 said Taiwan's technology has evolved from the manufacturing stage to producing products and services that can be used around the world.
AP: Trump-Xi summit to focus on Taiwan, tariffs and Iran; breakthrough unlikely
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Trump-Xi summit is set to address Taiwan, the trade war and the situation in Iran, but major progress is not expected. Taiwan, tariffs and Iran are deep-rooted issues in US-China relations, and a substantive resolution at the summit is considered unlikely.
2 benefits for newborn screening; full subsidy for SMA screening begins in July
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare announced 2 reforms to newborn screening. Starting in July, subsidies will cover the full cost, rising from 200 yuan to 750 yuan, and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) will be added to the screening panel. About 100,000 people are expected to benefit, promoting early detection and treatment.
Australia and Vanuatu strengthen security partnership; agreement omits provisions to counter China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Australia and Vanuatu have agreed to a new Nakmal Agreement to strengthen their security partnership, but it contains no provisions aimed at countering China's expanding influence. The deal reflects intensifying diplomatic competition between the US and China in the Pacific region.
Demand for AI and net-zero courses rises; Central Taiwan branch offers 87 continuing education courses
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Central彰投 Branch of Taiwan's Workforce Development Agency said it will offer 87 continuing education courses for employed workers, providing training opportunities to more than 2000 people. The courses respond to growing demand for skills in AI, carbon management and smart manufacturing, and aim to strengthen workers' competitiveness and support the industry's digital transformation.
Nantou plans waste incinerator; opponents blow bubbles and jump onto tables in protest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Residents opposed to a planned waste incineration facility in Nantou County protested at an environmental impact assessment meeting, blowing bubbles and climbing onto tables to make their opposition clear. Residents of Mingjian Township accused the county government of handling administrative procedures carelessly and demanded that it scrap the plan.
Day 73 of the Middle East war》US and UK impose new sanctions on Iran; latest developments at a glance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On day 73 of the Middle East war, the US and UK announced new sanctions on Iran, sending crude oil prices higher. US President Donald Trump warned that the ceasefire deal was “in grave danger,” as international tensions affect the economy and humanitarian crisis.
Trump-Xi summit affects the world; middle powers quietly form alliances to protect themselves
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
With the Trump-Xi summit approaching and a wide range of issues expected to be discussed, including trade, security and AI development, middle powers are forging alliances behind the scenes and taking measures to protect themselves from US-China tensions.
Companies mentioned:蓋洛普 (Gallup)、澳洲國立大學 (Australia National University)、普林斯頓大學 (Princeton University)、美國CNBC財經新聞網 (CNBC)、皮特森國際經濟研究所 (Peterson Institute for International Economics)、BCA Research
Qu Gui-zhi’s remarks to Chinese media on US arms purchases spark controversy; 北一女 says she was not interviewed by Chinese state media
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chinese state media-affiliated outlets reported remarks by 北一女 teacher 區桂芝 opposing US arms purchases. The school said the remarks had been quoted from a Taiwanese online program and did not result from a direct interview by Chinese state media. It said the teacher therefore had not violated rules barring staff from interviews with Chinese state media.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall transformation: Cho says preserve historical memory and promote democratic education
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Premier Cho Jung-tai outlined 2 approaches to the future of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: preserving historical memory and promoting democratic education. As civic groups call for its closure, Cho said he would consult with society on options that include closing it or opening the door to democracy.
Chief umpire Takuto Kawakami seriously injured and unconscious after being struck on the head by a bat; NPB to penalize dangerous swings
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) has introduced new penalties for “dangerous swings” after an umpire was struck in the head by a batter's bat and left unconscious and critically ill. Under the new rules, a warning or ejection may be issued if a bat slips from a player's hands or hits another person.
Trump to visit China; experts say he is unlikely to trade Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As US President Donald Trump prepares to visit China, there are concerns that support for Taiwan could wane. Experts say that even Trump's deal-focused approach is unlikely to make Taiwan a bargaining chip, particularly given the importance of Taiwan's semiconductor industry.
瑞銀 has maintained its year-end gold price target of $5,600 and its bullish outlook, as progress in US-Iran negotiations affects gold prices. Taiwan Bank, meanwhile, expects gold prices to trade within a range in the short term.
Shipping company general manager sentenced to one year and 10 months for helping Chinese man sneak into Kaohsiung
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kaohsiung District Court sentenced the general manager of a shipping agency to 1 year and 10 months in prison and mechanic 林維修工 to 1 year and 6 months for helping a Chinese national surnamed Li enter Kaohsiung illegally. The general manager, surnamed Huang, was considered the ringleader. Both denied the crime, which was said to have caused public alarm.
New Taiwan dollar down 1 cent at midday, provisionally closing at NT$31.425
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The New Taiwan dollar ended the morning session at 31.425 against the US dollar in Taipei foreign exchange trading, down 1 fen, with turnover of US$823 million.
First-instance ruling in Taipei private temple murder case: Lee Wei sentenced to 1 year and 10 months, suspended for 5 years; writer Wang Yun gets 12 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台北地方法院 sentenced writer 王薀, whose real name is 王江鎮, to 12 years in prison for causing bodily harm resulting in death in the Beishi Jing She murder case. Entertainer 李威 and his wife, 簡瑀家, were each sentenced as accessories to 1 year and 10 months and 1 year and 8 months in prison, respectively, with both sentences suspended for 5 years.
BWF Thailand badminton tournament: Taiwan’s new men’s doubles pairing Liu Guang-heng and Chen Cheng-kuan makes debut
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the BWF Thailand Open, Taiwan's new men's doubles pair 劉廣珩 and 陳政寬 made their debut. After a break following the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup, Taiwan's delegation, led by Chou Tien-chen, is competing, with high hopes for the young pair.
Cho opposes deciding Public Television Service board through party negotiations, says it would create a double hurdle
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Premier Cho Jung-tai voiced opposition to using party negotiations to determine the Public Television Service board's decisions. He said this would amount to political interference in independent media, and that using recommendations from review committee members and an administrative-party quota would create a double barrier.
4 public housing projects in Tainan, Kaohsiung and Taoyuan open for applications; eligibility expanded to include households with minor children
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The National Housing and Urban Regeneration Center announced that applications will open on May 22 for 4 social housing projects in Tainan, Kaohsiung and Taoyuan, with a total of 1097 units. Following amendments to the Housing Act, eligibility for families with children will be expanded to households with children under 18.
Clinic doctor accused of issuing fake medical certificates for profit; Taoyuan prosecutors indict and seek a heavy sentence
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 71-year-old doctor surnamed Chen at 台北市晏安診所 has been indicted by the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office for issuing false medical certificates for financial gain. He was previously convicted of fraud, and prosecutors are seeking a severe sentence.
ICC reveals arrest warrant for Philippine senator over alleged crimes against humanity in Duterte’s drug war
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has made public the contents of an arrest warrant for Philippine Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who is accused of “crimes against humanity” in connection with former president Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs. The warrant for dela Rosa was secretly issued in November 2025.
6 victims lured and coerced into taking nude photos under pretext of dance competition; Changhua court sentences defendant to 13 and a half years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Changhua District Court sentenced a man surnamed Hsieh to 13 years and 6 months in prison for disguising an online dance contest as a way to make 6 underage girls film nude videos and threatening to distribute them.
National defense special act accused of being watered down; Cho says he will ask legislature to make up the shortfall
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan Premier Cho Jung-tai said he intends to urge the Legislative Yuan to make up shortfalls in the special defense bill cut by opposition parties, including funding for drones. He stressed the importance of national security and called for cooperation at home and abroad.
Meeting Wyoming governor, president says Taiwan and US will build resilient democratic supply chains together
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Lai Ching-te met with Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon and said Taiwan and Wyoming would draw on their strengths in low-carbon technology and critical minerals to cooperate on the net-zero transition, technological innovation and building resilient democratic supply chains. The University of Wyoming and Taiwanese research institutions signed memorandums of understanding on advanced technologies and CCUS.
Qu Gui-zhi discusses arms purchases with Chinese media; Cho says teachers should avoid strong political statements
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
北一女 teacher 區桂芝 told Chinese media she opposed Taiwan's arms purchases from the US and said, “Peace will come if Taiwanese people acknowledge that they are Chinese.” Premier Cho Jung-tai said it was inappropriate for a teacher to express such a strong political position and urged the Ministry of Education to hold necessary discussions with the school and teacher.
Japanese plastic tea saucers and Chinese rubber gloves fail inspections, stopped at border
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Food and Drug Administration announced the latest border inspection results: 1.5 kg of plastic tea coasters from Japan and 28.88 kg of rubber gloves from China failed migration tests and were returned or destroyed. Heavy metals were also detected above the permitted limit in infant rice crackers from South Korea, which were likewise disposed of. Inspection measures for importers will be strengthened.
Man breaks into 萬和宮 in Taichung and damages offerings and deity statue; police refer case under property damage charge
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On the morning of May 12, a man stormed into Wanhe Temple, a designated historic site in Taichung, during a ceremony, knocking over offerings and religious statues. Police arrested a man surnamed Zhang on suspicion of property damage and are assessing the damage to the 4 Buddha statues and 4 Guangming lamps toppled at the scene.
3 people fall ill in unidentified spray incident on Japanese JR train; 16-year-old boy arrested
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 16-year-old boy sprayed an unidentified substance inside a train on Japan’s JR東海道線, leaving 3 people feeling unwell and temporarily stopping the train. Police arrested the boy on suspicion of forcible obstruction of business, and he has admitted to the offense.
Child and Youth Welfare and Rights Act to be amended; civic groups call for a Child and Family Ministry to improve coordination
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ministry of Health and Welfare released a draft amendment to the “兒少權法,” and the 國教盟 and 台灣心理健康聯盟 called for the central competent authority to be elevated to the “兒童家庭部” and for the establishment of budget tracking and an independent rights oversight mechanism. This is expected to promote cross-ministerial coordination on children and youth issues spanning education, welfare, police and the judiciary.
Taiwan stock rally boosts domestic demand; restaurant stocks benefit as April revenue climbs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The April rally in Taiwan’s stock market boosted domestic demand, lifting sales at food and tourism-related companies such as 王品, 漢來美食, 八方雲集 and 晶華. The “dining-out effect,” fueled in particular by investors’ increased gains, contributed to the strong performance. The companies also expect a strong second quarter, supported by events including Mother’s Day, the Dragon Boat Festival holiday and COMPUTEX Taipei.
Gang used sham legitimate businesses to defraud victims of more than a hundred million; Taipei police refer 24 suspects
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A telecom fraud and money-laundering group led by a man surnamed Su of the Bamboo Union bought struggling companies, illegally opened and resold corporate verification accounts, and carried out fraud totaling more than NT$100 million. Taipei police arrested and referred 24 suspects for prosecution.
Shih Chung-liang: Three-shift nurse-to-patient ratios will be implemented as planned, with no delays
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan Health and Welfare Minister Shih Chung-liang stressed plans to move the “三班護病比” nurse-to-patient ratio policy from an incentive-based measure to a legally binding requirement. He said the policy is being implemented according to plan and will not be left unenforced.
Car catches fire in Taichung, with explosion briefly reported; police and firefighters extinguish blaze, no injuries
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A passenger car caught fire in Taichung’s South District last night, and an explosion was briefly heard. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze, and the driver escaped unharmed. No one was injured. A vehicle problem is suspected as the cause.
Han Kuo-yu leads delegation to France, hopes French sectors will help raise Taiwan’s international profile
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A delegation led by Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu visited France and met with the French Institute of International Relations. Han said he hoped France would help raise Taiwan’s international visibility by speaking up for Taiwan on the international stage, visiting Taiwan and establishing branch campuses of French universities in Taiwan.
Railway labor director accused of fraudulently claiming crew allowance; Taiwan Railways assisting judicial investigation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Wu Changzhi, a labor director at Taiwan Railways, has been accused of fraudulently claiming about NT$800,000 in duty allowances, prompting the Taipei District Prosecutors Office to launch an investigation. Taiwan Railways said it would fully cooperate with the judicial investigation and seek repayment of any illicit gains if the allegations are confirmed.
First IGF Code training certificates issued; Maritime and Port Bureau advances dual-fuel crew training
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Maritime and Port Bureau issued its first “IGF Code” advanced training certificate, marking progress in the training system for Taiwan’s dual-fuel vessel crews. A crew member from 陽明海運 completed the training, becoming the first in Taiwan to receive the certificate.
Taiwan stocks turn lower after setting a new high; intraday swing reaches 686 points
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s stock market hit a record high amid continued interest in AI-related themes, but then saw sharp swings, including a 686-point plunge, and briefly fell into negative territory. Blue-chip stocks declined, while a new AI-themed ETF got off to a strong start.
Sun Yat-sen University makes breakthrough in hydrogen fuel cell technology, passes certification and moves toward mass production
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
National Sun Yat-sen University developed a new technology for a key hydrogen fuel cell material, the catalyst-coated membrane, boosting power generation efficiency by 16% and reducing costs. The technology was co-developed with 威杰能源, has already passed certification and is moving toward mass production.
聖宜診所 accused of secret filming; prosecutors and police search Taipei Zhongxiao branch and seize server
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
聖宜診所 is under investigation on suspicion of secret filming. The Taipei District Prosecutors Office searched its Taipei Zhongxiao branch and seized cameras and computer equipment. The Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office also searched its locations in Taoyuan and Zhongli.
Trump’s China visit: where he will go and stay draws attention
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to visit Beijing for 3 days starting on the 13th, attention is focused on his accommodations and security arrangements during the trip. Security has been tightened, with some hotels unavailable for booking and Tiantan Park temporarily closed.
Could Venezuela become the 51st US state? Acting president says it has never been considered
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Venezuela’s acting president, Rodríguez, said the proposal floated by U.S. President Donald Trump to make Venezuela the United States’ “51st state” had “never been considered,” stressing the importance of independence.
Taiwan issue at Trump-Xi summit draws attention; US lawmaker says America must clearly state its position
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to China, U.S. policy toward Taiwan and arms sales are drawing attention. Republican lawmakers argue that Washington should make clear its position on arms sales to Taiwan has not changed, and stress the importance of Taiwan’s autonomy.