株式会社ベクトル announced that しの❤️爆食い沖縄女, who shares trending products mainly through TikTok Shop, has joined its short-video media network, ショート動画取材班. The move is expected to increase product awareness and boost purchase intent.
Takara Shuzo will launch Sho Chiku Bai Shirakabegura Mio <FROZEN>, a new-style frozen sake to be enjoyed frozen, nationwide on June 2. It features fruity sweetness and a crunchy, icy texture, and aims to revitalize the brand.
That family-friendly event is back! KIDS FES in Saitama to be held May 30 and 31
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FoodFes株式会社 will hold the family-oriented hands-on event KIDS FES in Saitama for the 2nd time at Saitama Shintoshin Park on May 30 and 31, 2026. A range of free activities will be offered to help children learn through play, including job experiences, workshops, food trucks and a stamp rally.
Large-scale XR facility IMMERSIVE JOURNEY Nagoya set to reach 50,000 visitors soon! Commemorative stickers and new content announced! <Aichi>
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The large-scale XR facility IMMERSIVE JOURNEY in Nagoya is set to surpass 50,000 visitors just four months after opening. The facility will distribute commemorative stickers and add new content in July in collaboration with the Musée d'Orsay.
Vis to make its first appearance at Business Innovation Japan 2026 Spring Tokyo | Held at INTEX Osaka on 5/19-5/20
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ヴィス will exhibit for the first time at Business Innovation Japan 2026 Spring Osaka, taking place at INTEX Osaka from May 20 to 22, 2026. Through consultations on diverse workstyles and office environments, as well as an introduction to WORK DESIGN PLATFORM, the company will support businesses in solving management challenges.
[PoliPoli Gov (AI beta version)] Launches proof-of-concept with 岐阜市 to collect and analyze data using AI features, with the aim of incorporating citizens' voices into policy
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社PoliPoli has partnered with 岐阜市 to launch a proof-of-concept trial collecting and analyzing public opinion using PoliPoli Gov (AI beta version), equipped with AI features. The project aims to enhance the use of data in policymaking and better reflect citizens' voices in policy.
Merpay launches new feature that allows payments without adding funds, even when the balance is insufficient
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Merpay has launched a new feature that automatically covers any shortfall with Merpay Credit when the user's balance or points are insufficient at checkout, preventing awkward moments and enabling seamless payments.
パーク24株式会社 announced the planned May 2026 openings of 24 park-and-ride parking lots and 92 rail-and-car-share stations that contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This is part of the company's efforts to contribute to a sustainable society and make travel more convenient.
KristenseN DU NORD POP UP STORE to be held at Galerie Vie Isetan Shinjuku and Marunouchi stores starting May 13
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Galerie Vie will hold a POP UP STORE for Danish clothing brand KristenseN DU NORD at its Isetan Shinjuku and Marunouchi stores starting May 13. Along with high-quality clothing, the store will offer styling suggestions featuring Belgian bag brand Dragon.
Companies mentioned:KristenseN DU NORD、Dragon、GALERIE VIE
SSK begins preorders for umpire shirts and caps for NPB Mother's Day 2026!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SSK has begun taking preorders through its official online shop for specially designed pink umpire shirts and caps worn by umpires for NPB Mother's Day 2026. Orders will be accepted from May 11 to 17, with delivery at the end of July.
JR East Group Drone DX Championship 2026 to be held
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JR East will hold the “Drone DX Championship 2026” on June 7, 2026, showcasing innovative applications of drones in inspections of real-world infrastructure, including railway lines and power facilities.
ミマモルメ to begin developing a link between its “absence and tardiness reporting function” and the school administration support system “スクールマスターZeus” — eliminating the need to transcribe absence and tardiness notifications to help reform teachers’ working practices.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hanshin Group subsidiary ミマモルメ will develop an automated absence-reporting function linked to the school administration system “スクールマスターZeus,” aiming to eliminate the burden of manual transcription and improve working practices for teachers and staff.
Vehicle plunges into ravine during damage inspection on a damaged farm road in Miaoli County’s Zaoqiao; 4 injured and taken to hospital
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A vehicle plunged into a valley during a disaster survey in Miaoli County, injuring 4 people. County Agriculture Department staff and a consultant were on board; all were conscious and none suffered life-threatening injuries. Driver inexperience and the narrow road are suspected causes of the accident.
U.S. police cars also adopt AI imaging; newcomer 禾蒼 to debut on the emerging stock market on the 14th
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
佳能-backed 禾蒼科技 will list on the Emerging Stock Market on May 14. The company specializes in AI imaging technology and in-vehicle safety controls, supplying more than 50% of its products to the U.S. market. Adoption and testing are underway in U.S. police vehicles and European high-speed rail, as it seeks to expand in Western markets with Edge AI and in-vehicle safety controls.
A nationwide ATM system outage occurred at 中華郵政 in Taiwan this afternoon, making services such as cash withdrawals and transfers unavailable. The company is investigating the cause.
Councilor criticizes slapdash filling of rat holes; Taipei Parks Office says inspections will be stepped up
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Taipei City councilor criticized the practice of filling rat holes with soil and dead leaves as a “sham” approach to rat control. The city’s Parks and Street Lights Office said it would increase patrols and step up environmental cleanup and enforcement of the ban on feeding. Since February, more than 2000 rat holes have been filled, and the city pledged to continue its efforts.
Would raising water-rate tiers make large users pay more? Water Resources Agency says the trend is right but no adjustment timetable has been set
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Water Resources Agency is considering gradually adjusting water prices, with a view to increasing costs for high-volume users while limiting the impact on ordinary households. However, opinions are divided across society, and no specific timeline for the adjustment has been set.
April tax revenue totals NT$189.5 billion; securities transaction tax surges 2.1 times, rising for 9 straight months
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s 財政部 said nationwide tax revenue in April totaled NT$189.5 billion, up 23% from a year earlier. Securities transaction tax surged to NT$54.6 billion, or 2.1 times the year-earlier level, marking an increase for the 9th consecutive month and reflecting a buoyant stock market.
Hsinchu County achieves just 11.1% of its social housing target; county government says work will continue
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hsinchu County councilor 蔡蕥鍹 said the county’s social housing completion rate stood at just 11.1%, and that demand for social housing was high amid soaring home prices. The county government said it would continue to promote the program.
The May 12, 2026 ASEAN briefing covers Vietnam’s F88 planning a listing, Singapore allocating 500 million Singapore dollars for high-performance data centers, the Philippines facing a possible 50% plunge in rice production, and Malaysia’s semiconductor listing plans, highlighting regional developments in finance, energy and food security.
Taiwan drone budget cut; retired Australian general says risk of China cutting off supplies has increased
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Retired Australian Army Maj. Gen. Mick Ryan warned that cuts to Taiwan’s budget for domestically developed drones could increase reliance on U.S.-made weapons and heighten the risk of supply disruptions by China. He also said China’s denial of the Taiwan Strait median line poses a serious problem for regional security.
王薀 sentenced to 12 years in Taipei retreat murder case; victim’s family says sentence is too light
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Writer 王薀, whose real name is 王江鎮, was sentenced to 12 years in prison in a fatal assault case at a Taipei City religious retreat center. The victim’s family said the sentence was too lenient. The case, which has drawn public attention, involved 王薀, a spiritual leader in a religious group, coercing and assaulting a follower, who later died.
宇樹 unveils world’s first passenger-carrying transforming mech, starting at NT$18 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s 宇樹科技 unveiled the world’s first rideable transforming mech, the “GD01.” The mech can carry one person while walking and transform into a quadruped form. It is priced at about NT$18 million in China (about 3.9 million yuan, or US$650,000 overseas). The company emphasized that humanoid robots still have limitations.
Japan captured 14,000 bears in the past fiscal year; more than 99% were culled
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
According to Japan’s Environment Ministry, bear sightings in fiscal 2025 reached a record 50,776. More than 99% of the 14,720 bears captured were culled. Bear attacks on people also hit a record, with 238 victims and 13 deaths, prompting calls for warnings to local residents.
Hsinchu volunteer police donate 200 cakes and face masks to thank healthcare workers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Hsinchu City Volunteer Police Battalion gave cakes and 200 sets of sheet masks to nurses at the Hsinchu Hospital of National Taiwan University Hospital’s Hsinchu Branch, recognizing their round-the-clock care for patients. The battalion chief said the gesture conveyed gratitude and respect for nurses and underscored the importance of supporting healthcare workers across society.
Elusive Formosan black bears difficult to observe; documentary unveils the raptor’s mysterious world
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Yushan National Park Headquarters is conducting ecological research on the endangered Mountain Hawk-Eagle, collecting data on its activity patterns and breeding behavior. With support from the 緯創人文基金会, it also livestreamed a Mountain Hawk-Eagle nest, attracting more than 150,000 viewers. The documentary “Fly! Mountain Hawk-Eagle,” based on the research, will be released on May 15.
Taiwan ranks 5th globally in port controls, with no detentions for 2 straight years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan ranked 5th worldwide in the Tokyo MOU’s Port State Control Performance Report 2025, achieving “zero detentions” for the 2nd consecutive year. The result demonstrates compliance with international ship-management standards.
Australian man goes missing in the mountains; Taitung police and firefighters find him on a cliff but cannot reach him
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An Australian man went missing in the mountains of Taitung County, apparently after an argument with his wife. Firefighters located him using a drone, but rescuing him is difficult because he is in a cave on a steep cliff.
President: Three-shift nurse-to-patient ratios to be implemented in phases in 116; medical workforce task force to be established
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te announced that legislation on nurse-to-patient ratios across three shifts would be implemented in phases starting May 20, 2027, to improve nurses’ working conditions. He also instructed the Ministry of Health and Welfare to establish a medical workforce research and development group.
On whether he will play a 24th season, James says it hinges on whether he continues pursuing top-level performance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After the ロサンゼルス・レイカーズ were eliminated from the NBA playoffs, LeBron James said he planned to consider his future. Whether he enters his 24th season will depend on whether he remains motivated to pursue top-level performance.
Fishermen accidentally catch 200-kg leatherback turtle off Dongshi; Coast Guard rescues and releases it
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Fishermen accidentally caught a 200-kg leatherback turtle off Waisandingzhou in Dongshi waters, Chiayi County. The Ocean Conservation Administration identified it as a Category I protected animal. The turtle had only minor scrapes and bruises. The Coast Guard successfully rescued and released it, marking the agency’s first successful live-animal rescue since its establishment.
Taichung man pretends to mail shoes but actually sends a bank card; police thwart scam that nearly made him a money mule
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A scam group in Taichung City tried to trick a man into mailing his bank card and PIN under the pretext of a loan application. A police officer grew suspicious and intervened, preventing the man from becoming a money mule.
‘Wild Adventures in East Kaohsiung’ launches 6 itineraries to explore the charm of the mountain towns
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kaohsiung City Tourism Bureau announced “Wild East Kaohsiung mini tours,” offering 6 themed tours, with 20 trips in total, for an immersive experience of the mountain towns of eastern Kaohsiung. The tours feature Indigenous culture, ecosystems and local crafts, and aim to promote sustainable regional tourism.
Trump-Xi meeting imminent; Chinese scholar says Trump needs China’s help on many issues
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to China, Fudan University professor Wu Xinbo said the United States is prioritizing economic and trade issues, while China regards the Taiwan issue as its top priority. He added that Trump is seeking China’s cooperation on many issues.
Changhua Christian Hospital president targeted in fake, misleading ads; hospital gathers evidence and warns public not to be scammed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
陳穆寬, superintendent of Changhua Christian Hospital, was used in a fabricated false advertisement created with AI technology. The hospital is gathering evidence through its legal department. It said doctors are prohibited from endorsing commercial advertisements and urged the public to beware of scams.
Man in his 50s diagnosed with melioidosis after splenic abscess; 19 cases this year, above the same period in the past 4 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man in his 50s in Taiwan was diagnosed with melioidosis accompanied by a splenic abscess, bringing the number of domestic cases so far this year to 19, up from the same period in each of the past 4 years. The man, who has diabetes, developed a severe illness but recovered after about 1 month in hospital.
蕭景田 tells 魏平政 to head north; cannot speak for whether nomination will be made on the 13th
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
KMT Changhua County chapter chairman 蕭景田 speculated that the party’s Central Standing Committee may nominate lawyer 魏平政 to run for Changhua County magistrate and has told him to head north. 蕭景田 said the final decision rests with party headquarters and he cannot answer on its behalf.
WHA set to open; civic groups announce plans to hold an international forum in Geneva
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ahead of the World Health Assembly (WHA), 世台聯合基金會 and Taiwanese legislators announced plans to hold an international forum in Geneva, Switzerland, to showcase civil society’s contributions to global health.
Woman troubled for years by neurofibromatosis finds pain relief through cross-specialty surgery by Chiayi Christian Hospital team
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A medical team at Chiayi Christian Hospital removed a tumor during a 12-hour multidisciplinary operation, relieving a 41-year-old woman of pain caused by neurofibromatosis that had plagued her for years and helping her return to a pain-free life. The success highlights the importance of team-based care in treating rare diseases.
National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center develops new catalyst to improve green ammonia conversion efficiency
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國輻中心 and Australia’s Curtin University jointly developed a new catalyst, ternary copper cobalt nitride with an anti-perovskite structure (CuNCo3). It substantially improves the efficiency and stability of converting nitrates into green ammonia, contributing to wastewater treatment and the energy transition to green ammonia. It achieves 100% ammonia production efficiency at low voltage and low energy consumption.
Poll on goals of U.S.-Iran war: 2/3 of Americans say Trump has not clearly explained them
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 2 out of 3 Americans believe President Trump has not clearly explained the goals of the war with Iran. The survey also pointed to concerns about soaring oil prices and blame being directed at Republicans.
Printing ink ingredient supplies run short; Calbee potato chip packaging switches to black and white
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Amid shortages of petrochemical raw materials caused by escalating tensions in the Middle East, Japanese confectionery giant カルビー will switch the packaging of 14 of its key products, including potato chips, to black-and-white designs. The move highlights supply-chain vulnerabilities and growing environmental awareness.
518 International Museum Day: 6 New Taipei museums and 1 park offer free admission
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 新北市文化局 announced that 6 public museums in New Taipei City and the Lin Family Mansion and Garden will open free of charge in observance of International Museum Day on May 18. The initiative is part of the “New Taipei Culture Friendly Year” and aims to make museums places for everyone to gather and interact.
Trump-Xi meeting set to take place; KMT puts forward 4 demands and urges government to prepare response and plans
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kuomintang caucus presented the government with 4 demands ahead of the Trump-Xi meeting: submit a national security risk assessment report, have President Lai Ching-te hold a press conference, have the 外交部 and the National Security Council consider diplomatic contingency plans, and have the 行政院 activate a mechanism to address industrial impacts. The demands reflect concerns about how changes in US-China relations after the meeting could affect Taiwan.
Kaohsiung police officer reprimanded after accidentally firing gun while clearing it; station chief also receives a warning
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A police officer from the Yancheng Precinct of the Kaohsiung City Police Department accidentally fired a live round while cleaning. No one was injured, but the officer received 1 demerit and the precinct chief received 2 reprimands. The police department plans to strengthen training to prevent a recurrence.
Magnitude 5.6 earthquake off eastern Taiwan; maximum intensity of 4 in Hualien and Taitung
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck waters off eastern Taiwan, with a maximum intensity of 4 recorded in Taitung and Hualien counties. The quake occurred at 2:53 p.m. today at a depth of 22.9 kilometers.
Government to procure 7.05 million flu vaccine doses this year; Taiwan first in Asia to include enhanced vaccine
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s 衛生福利部疾病管制署 announced that it will procure 7.05 million publicly funded trivalent influenza vaccine doses this year. Notably, it has decided to include an enhanced influenza vaccine in its publicly funded vaccination program for the first time in Asia.
Flood detention pond compensation project at Shilong Creek on Freeway 7 begins; expected completion by year-end
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 高雄市水利局 has started construction of the “National Route 7 Kaohsiung Section New Construction Project Shilong Creek Flood Detention Compensation Facility” as a flood-control measure for the Renwu area, in coordination with the 交通部高公局’s “National Route 7 Kaohsiung Section New Construction Project.” The work is scheduled for completion by the end of the year and will increase storage capacity by about 43,000 tons by deepening the detention pond at Renwu Industrial Park by 2 meters.
史哲 showcases bidet toilet in new HSR train; dedicated sink has a curtain
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan High Speed Rail announced comfort-enhancing features for its new N700ST trains, including bidet seats in the toilets and curtains at dedicated washbasins for passengers to use while touching up their makeup. The new trains will arrive in Taiwan in August and are scheduled to begin entering service in stages from the middle of next year.
Trump to visit China for first time in 9 years; scholar says U.S.-China relations have fundamentally changed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former US President Trump visited China for the first time in 9 years, and Chinese scholars said US-China relations have undergone a qualitative change. The Trump-Xi meeting is seen as likely to produce results in trade and economic affairs, while major changes on the Taiwan issue are not expected.
Nangan Township Office seeks to improve pay allowances; Examination Yuan says proposal will be considered in system review
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Examination Yuan Vice President Hsu Shu-hsiang visited the Nangan Township Office in Lienchiang County and held a roundtable on 13 personnel-related proposals, including organizational rankings, flexibility in staffing, and optimizing compensation. The 考試院 said the proposals would serve as an important reference for future policy reviews.
Yangxin Cup youth baseball: Taichung’s 陳昶叡 holds firm with confidence and does not let victory slip away
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung City defeated Taoyuan City 4-3 in the final of the Yangxin Cup Youth Baseball Tournament to claim the title. Left-handed pitcher Chen Chang-rui gave up 2 runs over 2.1 innings and earned a save, helping secure the win. He spoke about his personal growth and contribution to the team.
DPP caucus: We will continue to monitor Trump-Xi meeting; Taiwan-U.S. ties are underpinned by the Taiwan Relations Act
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 民進黨立法院黨團 said it would continue to follow Taiwan-related issues and the US-China trade war at the Trump-Xi meeting scheduled for the 14th. It emphasized that Taiwan and the United States are supported by the Taiwan Relations Act and that the caucus would work closely with the United States to contribute to regional security and stability.
Three-shift nurse-to-patient ratios to take effect ahead of schedule; Lai Ching-te says phased implementation in 116
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te announced at an International Nurses Day celebration that the start date for the “three-shift nurse-to-patient ratio” system would be brought forward from May 1, 2028, to May 20, 2027, with implementation phased in. The decision followed dissatisfaction voiced by some nursing groups over the 2-year grace period.
Pingtung inspects medical institutions; no pinhole cameras found at 13 sites
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After a suspected pinhole camera incident at a beauty clinic in Tainan, the Pingtung County Health Bureau conducted emergency inspections of 13 medical institutions in the county but found no pinhole devices. The bureau stressed that medical institutions must strictly protect patients’ privacy.
AI-related momentum lifts broader market; Japan stocks close higher
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tokyo stocks closed higher, lifted by gains in AI-related shares. The continued enthusiasm for AI themes pushed up the broader market, offsetting weakness in consumer retail stocks amid sluggish domestic spending.
Taichung wins Yangxin Cup youth baseball title for a second straight year and earns Little League berth; 葉壘 named MVP
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung City defeated Taoyuan City 4-3 at the Yangxin Bank Cup Youth Baseball Tournament to win the title for a second consecutive year. The team earned the right to represent the Asia-Pacific region at the Pony youth baseball tournament, and player Yeh Lei was named MVP. The head coach vowed that the team would continue to improve.
Ørsted’s Greater Changhua Southeast and Southwest Phase 1 wind farms generate a cumulative 7 billion kWh
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Since beginning operations in April 2024, Ørsted’s Greater Changhua Southeast and Southwest Phase 1 offshore wind farms have generated a cumulative 7 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity, helping cut carbon dioxide emissions by 3.31 million tons. They are Taiwan’s largest remote offshore wind farms and are known for their high safety and operational efficiency.
Yua Mikami wins by a landslide; TPBL names its most popular cheerleader of the year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The TPBL announced the 2025-26 season’s most popular cheerleader, as chosen by fan vote. Formosa Dreamers cheerleader Yua Mikami of Formosa Sexy took first place with 7812 votes. She has contributed to the team with her popularity and professionalism.
Tainan’s Longci revitalizes space beneath an overpass to create a mountain-town-themed park
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Tainan City Government has revitalized the space beneath a pedestrian bridge in Longqi District by building the “Tree Cube Rest Area,” an inclusive play space for all ages featuring bamboo design elements and the natural terrain. The project creates a distinctive space for the mountain town and promotes local leisure tourism.
賴瑞隆 unveils main campaign visual and policy platform; 柯志恩 urges him to state his energy choice
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Lai Jui-lung, the Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate for Kaohsiung mayor, unveiled his campaign’s main visual and policies on semiconductors and AI computing power. Kuomintang candidate Ko Chih-en said the policies were similar but stressed that clear energy choices were needed to ensure a stable power supply.
翁章梁: Cuts to military procurement budget could leave Taiwan’s drone development lagging
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan removed funding for drone development from the military special act, Chiayi County Magistrate Weng Chang-liang voiced concern that Taiwan’s drone industry would develop more slowly and lose international competitiveness. He said the impact would be especially significant for mass production, automated production lines, technology development and workforce training.
New air-conditioned management office for Nantou’s Puli cleaning crew; no more sweltering like an oven in summer
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Puli Township cleaning team in Nantou County rebuilt its aging office themselves, completing a new facility equipped with air conditioning and a water dispenser. The upgrade has greatly improved the team’s working environment and alleviated the summer heat and other inconveniences.
貿聯-KY reported first-quarter revenue of NT$20.863 billion, a record high, while its gross margin fell to 28.76%, below 30%. Growth in its HPC and industrial businesses drove performance, but the transition between old and new platforms weighed on gross margin.
China’s central bank: Closely monitoring impact of imported inflation on economy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 中国人民銀行 said rising international crude oil prices due to the situation in the Middle East were affecting China’s price indicators and warned of external inflationary pressures. It said it would seek to maintain liquidity and stabilize the yuan’s exchange rate.
APEC trade ministers’ meeting to be held in Suzhou, China; 楊珍妮 to lead delegation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 APEC Trade Ministers’ Meeting will be held in Suzhou, China, and Taiwan will send a delegation led by Minister without Portfolio Yang Jen-ni. Taiwan is asserting its right to equal treatment within APEC despite pressure from China.
Taiwan stocks challenge 42,000 points for 4th straight day; swing 781 points before closing up 108
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Driven by the AI boom and strong earnings from technology companies, Taiwan stocks hit a record intraday high of 42253.42 before closing up 108.26 points at 41898.32. The market has stayed above 42000 points for 4 consecutive days, with TSMC, optical communications-related stocks and panel makers performing well.
U.S. sanctions 4 Hong Kong companies, accusing them of helping Iran sell oil to China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on several individuals and entities, including 4 Hong Kong companies, for supporting sales of Iranian crude oil to China. The move is part of an effort to strengthen U.S. sanctions against Iran.
Companies mentioned:Hong Kong Blue Ocean Ltd、Hong Kong Sanmu Ltd、Jiandi HK Ltd、Max Honor International Trade Co Ltd、星島日報
The King Car Foundation partnered with the Taiwan International Youth Cultural Exchange Association to send foreign volunteers to Anyeh Elementary School in Tainan to support bilingual education. The effort aims to narrow the education gap between urban and rural areas and build students’ confidence in English and international outlook.
Kyiv attacked by drones; Zelenskyy says Russia has no intention of ending the war
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia had no intention of ending the war and urged the public to prepare for new attacks. Kyiv came under a drone attack after the ceasefire agreement period ended.
On clinic suspected of secretly filming patients, NTU College of Medicine dean 吳明賢 says it is unacceptable
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After covert recording scandals emerged at several beauty clinics, Wu Ming-hsien, dean of the National Taiwan University College of Medicine, criticized the industry for prioritizing commercial interests and engaging in conduct that violates professional ethics. He said violations of patient privacy are unacceptable and pointed to the need for legislation to address systemic problems.
3.5 million pages of Epstein case documents go on brief display, revealing years-long ties with Trump
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In New York, 第一事実研究所 is publicly exhibiting files related to the Epstein case, spanning about 3.5 million pages. The exhibition focuses on Donald Trump’s longstanding ties to the case and aims to demand accountability for corruption and raise public awareness.
NPP urges no delay in three-shift nurse-to-patient ratios; implement before International Nurses Day next year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s 時代力量 party called on 衛生福利部 to bring forward implementation of the 三班護病比 (nurse-to-patient ratio across shifts) to International Nurses Day next year. Nursing groups and hospital labor unions have voiced dissatisfaction with the current plan to implement it starting May 1, 2028, and the party expressed concern about delays in the policy and an opaque inspection system.
Evacuation from hantavirus-hit cruise ship completed; Hondius returns to the Netherlands for disinfection
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The luxury cruise ship Hondius, affected by hantavirus infections, completed the evacuation of its last passengers and some crew members and headed to the Netherlands for disinfection. WHO opted for disembarkation and evacuation, weighing public safety against passengers’ mental health.
Civic groups reveal Control Yuan investigation report, urge pause in 추진ing high-speed rail extension to Yilan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The civic group 公民幫推 released an investigative report by the Control Yuan, pointing to major procedural flaws and environmental assessment issues in the high-speed rail extension plan to Yilan. It called for the plan to be suspended temporarily and reassessed. The Railway Bureau said the plan was proceeding in accordance with the law.
貿聯-KY subsidiary to increase capital for Vietnam plant, investing US$13.4 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
貿聯-KY announced that its key subsidiary BizLink Speedy Pte. Ltd. will invest an additional US$13.4 million in its Vietnam plant, BizLink Technology (Vietnam) Co., Ltd. The investment will be funded by the company’s own resources and is part of its strategy to expand its business in Southeast Asia.
Budget increased for elevated walkway connecting to a linear park across Civic Boulevard; completion estimated by end of 2029
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The construction cost of Taipei Metro’s planned linear park skybridge crossing Civic Boulevard rose by NT$300 million after a design change prompted by the relocation of Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport, bringing the total to NT$1.11 billion. The project aims to be completed by the end of 2029.
黃重諺: Not concerned about Trump-Xi meeting; U.S. has already stated its Taiwan policy remains unchanged
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Huang Chung-yen, a National Security Council advisory committee member, said Taiwan and the United States had coordinated closely during the review of the special military procurement bill. He stressed that strengthening Taiwan’s defenses is essential not only for security but also for stability along the First Island Chain. On the Trump-Xi meeting, he said he was not concerned at all because the United States had made clear it would not change its policy toward Taiwan.
After Japanese prime minister’s remarks on a Taiwan contingency, Japanese cabinet member may visit China for first time
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japan’s minister in charge of child policy, Hitoshi Kawakida, announced that he is arranging to attend the APEC Women and the Economy Forum in Shanghai. If the visit goes ahead, it will be the first visit to China by a Japanese cabinet minister since Sanae Takaichi’s remarks on a “Taiwan contingency.”
Three-shift nurse-to-patient ratios to become law; 鄭麗文 says KMT will stand behind nursing staff
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan formally added the 三班護病比 (nurse-to-patient ratio across shifts) to the Medical Care Act. KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun welcomed the move and pledged continued support for better nurse compensation and higher medical standards. The system is scheduled to take effect on May 1, 2028.
India’s Tamil Nadu state government bans alcohol sales near schools and temples
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After movie star Vijay took office as chief minister in India’s Tamil Nadu state, he announced a new rule requiring the closure within 2 weeks of 717 government-run liquor stores located within 500 meters of schools, religious facilities and stations. The measure is intended to tighten regulation of alcohol sales and address public concerns.
BBC: U.S. and Denmark hold secret talks on plans to add 3 U.S. military bases in Greenland
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The BBC reported that the United States and Denmark are negotiating secretly over plans to add 3 U.S. military bases in Greenland. Against the backdrop of a diplomatic crisis sparked by former President Trump’s suggestion that the United States acquire Greenland, the bases would be intended to monitor Russian and Chinese activity in the North Atlantic.
L.C. Lu: Semiconductor output value to challenge US$1.4 trillion this year, memory chips remain hot
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Etron Technology Chairman Lu Chao-chun forecast that the global semiconductor industry’s output value would reach US$1.4 trillion this year, with DRAM and NAND Flash accounting for half. He expects AI-driven demand for memory devices to keep DRAM prices high until the middle of next year.
China obstructs Taiwan’s participation in the WHA; Foreign Ministry urges WHO to reject political interference
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly urged WHO to reject political interference and invite Taiwan to participate as an observer, in response to China blocking Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly (WHA). It stressed that Taiwan is a sovereign, independent country and that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each other.
Google search outage caused by internal server error; company working to resolve it
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An internal server error disrupted Google Search, temporarily making the service unavailable. Google is working to resolve the issue, while the scope and cause of the disruption are under investigation.