TPBL: Chiang Yu-an's clutch layup helps the Dreamers narrowly beat the Hsinchu Lioneers and become the first to reach match point
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Formosa Dreamers defeated the Hsinchu Lioneers in the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL) playoffs. Led by Chiang Yu-an, they edged out a 114-106 victory and moved within reach of advancing in the series.
Taiwan stocks surge; 13 financial holding companies post record NT$291.4 billion in profits in the first 4 months
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Buoyed by a strong Taiwanese stock market, the combined net profit of the 13 listed financial holding companies reached NT$291.4 billion from January through April this year, a record for the same period. That marked a sharp increase of about 80% from a year earlier.
Iranian media: Chinese vessels have been allowed to transit the Strait of Hormuz since May 13
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Iranian navy has reopened the Strait of Hormuz to Chinese-flagged vessels, after blocking passage since the outbreak of war with the United States and Israel. The move came in response to a request from China and points to shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Hong I-chung wished for a win as a birthday gift; Wu Nien-ting hits first career walk-off single
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The TSG Hawks defeated the Rakuten Monkeys with a dramatic walk-off win in pro baseball. Fulfilling the wish to celebrate their manager’s birthday with a victory, Wu Nien-ting hit the first walk-off hit of his career to lead his team to a win.
UK health secretary resigns, saying he has lost confidence in the prime minister's leadership
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
British Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned, saying he had lost confidence in Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership. The move is seen as a possible first step toward challenging Starmer’s position as party leader.
There was no first-prize winner in the 115039th draw of the Power Lottery held on May 14. There was 1 winner of the second prize, worth about NT$8.45 million.
Japan closely watches Xi-Trump meeting, wary of China courting Trump and affecting security
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Following the US-China summit, the Japanese government is closely watching for its impact on the situation in East Asia. There is growing concern that Japan’s security could be undermined if the United States makes concessions on issues such as Taiwan, particularly in light of President Trump’s pro-China remarks and actions.
Lin Chih-ling's appointment to TAICCA board questioned; Wang Shih-ssu hopes she will be given a chance to prove herself
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Wang Shih-ssu, chairperson of the Taiwan Creative Content Agency, pushed back against criticism over actress Lin Chi-ling’s appointment as a board member. Wang said Lin’s past remarks about the Chinese market reflected the difficulties facing Taiwan’s industry and urged people to judge her by her actions going forward.
Investors focus on US-China leaders' meeting as Wall Street stocks edge higher at the open
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Wall Street stocks opened slightly higher on the 14th as investors watched for progress in the US-China summit. All major indexes began trading in positive territory, though gains were modest.
CTBC Ladies Open: Host player Shih Cheng-hsuan shoots 69 to share the lead on opening day
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On the first day of the CTBC Ladies Open, Taiwan’s Shih Cheng-hsuan shot a 69 with 4 birdies and 1 bogey to share the lead. The tournament is co-sanctioned by the TLPGA and a Japanese developmental tour, and is drawing keen attention because the winner will earn a place on next year’s Japan tour.
Xi-Trump meeting summaries differ; US national security official says Washington's support for Taiwan is unchanged
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
With US and Chinese accounts of the US-China summit, known as the Xi-Trump meeting, differing, Taiwanese national security officials stressed that the US position of support for Taiwan remains unchanged. They said the United States had made clear even before the meeting that it opposed any unilateral attempt to change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
FSC eases rules to allow OTC derivatives trading within groups in bid to boost assets under management
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission has eased regulations as part of its drive to become an Asian asset management hub. The change allows asset management firms entrusted by high-net-worth corporations and others to conduct over-the-counter derivatives transactions with affiliates in the same financial group.
Evergreen buys 18,000 newly built containers from its Malaysian subsidiary
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Evergreen Marine announced that it would buy 18,000 new containers from a Malaysian subsidiary for $61.51 million for operational use. At the same time, another subsidiary will enter into a sale-and-leaseback deal involving 11,059 containers for about $30 million. The moves are intended to optimize the company’s operating capacity and improve asset efficiency.
JR東日本 lost its bid for the commercial facilities at Taipei Main Station, but its appetite for investment in Taiwan’s railway economy remains strong. A company executive said Taiwan’s pro-Japanese atmosphere gives the company confidence and hope about investing.
Executive Yuan approves 3 strengthened performance guarantee mechanisms to prevent presale homes from becoming unfinished projects
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Executive Yuan approved 3 measures to strengthen performance guarantees and prevent presale housing projects from being left unfinished. Payments made by buyers will generally be placed in trust accounts, and their use will be restricted to construction costs and other specified expenses.
Xi Jinping hosts Trump, saying China-US ties can only be made better, not worse
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted a banquet in Beijing to welcome US President Trump. Xi stressed the importance of cooperation, saying that “China-US relations can only be made better.” President Trump invited Xi and his wife to the United States on September 24.
“A Dream in the Forest: An Encounter with Hagay” explores mythology, queerness and technology
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
“A Dream in the Forest: An Encounter with Hagay,” a theater work created by new media artist Shu Lea Cheang and Taroko artist Dondon Houwan, will premiere at the Taipei Performing Arts Center. Developed over 5 years, the work blends mythology, queerness and technology to explore issues including gender fluidity.
Experts: Xi Jinping's hardline language on Taiwan may indicate Trump did not yield
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the US-China summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a forceful warning on Taiwan. Experts say it reflects the US side’s refusal to make concessions on Taiwan and shows that the issue remains China’s foremost red line.
Companies mentioned:International Crisis Group、Atlantic Council
US Treasury secretary hints Beijing will place major Boeing order; US and China may discuss AI safety rules
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signaled that the United States and China would soon finalize a major deal involving Boeing aircraft. The countries are also expected to discuss establishing standards for the safe development of AI.
Li Sichuan promotes senior citizen card upgrades; Su Chiao-hui shows Tsai Ing-wen around her campaign office
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The New Taipei mayoral race is heating up. 國民黨 candidate Li Sichuan proposes expanding senior citizen card use to cover medical care and shopping. 民進黨 candidate Su Chiao-hui invited former president Tsai Ing-wen to tour her campaign office. She also proposed upgrading the card and emphasized a youthful, innovative image.
Huang Jen-hsun joins CEO delegation at the last minute: “President Trump asked me to come”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang joined US President Donald Trump's delegation to China at the last minute. Huang said the trip was at President Trump's request and was an excellent opportunity to represent the United States and support the president, highlighting the importance of the AI industry in international politics.
Executive Yuan approves requirement for cruise ticket prices to be clearly displayed and bans arbitrary itinerary changes
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Executive Yuan approved the Standardized Contract Rules for Cruise Ship Ticket Services to reduce consumer disputes involving cruise ships. The new rules require cruise companies to clearly display fares and prohibit them from arbitrarily changing routes, among other requirements.
Central News Agency holds AI Meets ESG forum; Hu Wan-ling says it seeks solutions for Taiwanese businesses
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Central News Agency held an “AI Meets ESG” forum in Taichung. President Hu Wan-ling said the event aims to find solutions to help Taiwanese companies transform digitally and go green by sharing expert knowledge and business case studies.
Hon Hai invests US$400 million to acquire shares in a cash capital increase by its Singapore subsidiary
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hon Hai Precision Industry’s board approved an additional investment of US$407.2 million in its Singapore subsidiary, Foxconn Singapore. The investment will give Hon Hai 100% ownership of the subsidiary.
Hsinchu City clinic searched over suspected pinhole camera; person in charge released on NT$1 million bail
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Authorities suspect a hidden camera was installed at a clinic in Hsinchu City, and prosecutors have launched an investigation. The clinic’s director, identified by the surname Li, was released on NT$1 million bail on suspicion of violating privacy and was barred from traveling overseas.
National Palace Museum to conduct 4th comprehensive inventory of its collection, adopting paperless procedures for the first time
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The National Palace Museum has launched its fourth major inventory of its collections in more than 10 years. For the first time, the work will be entirely paperless, using RFID and QR codes to digitize management and improve efficiency. The process is scheduled to continue through the end of 2031.
The results of the 115039th Power Lottery draw in Taiwan were announced. The winning numbers for the first section were 21, 06, 08, 09, 29 and 17, while the number for the second section was 08. The announcement is important to lottery ticket buyers.
Pou Chen's investment in Nanshan subject to IFRS 17; first-quarter net profit rises 1622% year on year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Footwear giant Pou Chen announced that its first-quarter net profit reached 2.23 billion yuan, up 1622% from a year earlier. The increase was mainly due to higher investment income after Nan Shan Life, an investee company, adopted the new accounting standard IFRS 17.
Companies mentioned:寶成工業 (Pou Chen Corporation)、南山人壽 (Nanshan Life Insurance)
US Treasury secretary says Trump will make more remarks on Taiwan in the coming days
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On the sidelines of the US-China summit, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said President Trump would make further remarks on Taiwan “within the next few days.” The comment has drawn greater attention to a key and sensitive issue in US-China relations.
Keelung grandson suspected of beating grandfather to death after failing to get money; detained
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man in Keelung allegedly beat his grandfather to death after demanding money from him. The 83-year-old man was taken to hospital unconscious and died 13 days later. A police investigation led to suspicion that the grandson attacked him after an argument; the grandson was arrested and detained.
US company CEOs visit China with Trump; Li Qiang says concrete actions will support China-US development
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
CEOs of US companies accompanied President Trump on his visit to China. Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with NVIDIA’s Jensen Huang and others, saying their visit demonstrated the importance they place on the Chinese market and their support for US-China relations. He said he hoped US companies would serve as a bridge between the countries.
Solar PV application portal link glitch fixed, Energy Administration says; issue reported
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A link on the Energy Administration website to its “Solar PV One-Stop Service Portal” mistakenly led to an adult website. The problem occurred after a third party re-registered the old URL. The administration promptly corrected the link and reported the matter to the relevant agencies.
Evergreen earns 3.84 per share in first quarter; peak-season momentum may push freight rates higher
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
長榮海運 reported net profit of 8.304 billion yuan and EPS of 3.84 yuan for the first quarter of 2026, down about 70% from a year earlier. Cargo volumes rose, but freight rates fell. The company expects a recovery as the traditional peak season approaches and shippers become more eager to ship goods early.
Miaoli prosecutors make early cross-agency preparations to investigate vote-buying and prevent election interference ahead of year-end elections
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Miaoli District Prosecutors Office is stepping up preparations ahead of year-end local elections, promising a tough crackdown on bribery, violence, election gambling, disinformation and interference by foreign forces.
Latvian prime minister resigns amid political storm over Ukrainian drone incursion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa announced her resignation amid a defense dispute sparked by a Ukrainian drone incursion and the governing coalition’s loss of its parliamentary majority. The 3-party coalition has effectively collapsed.
Renovation of National Palace Museum's main building stalls; model display and forum aim to foster discussion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Renovation work on the main building of the National Palace Museum has stalled after failing to pass the cultural heritage review by 台北市政府. The museum is seeking to build social consensus through model exhibitions and forums, with the aim of seeking a new review.
Minnan exam subject in special examination for persons with disabilities renamed “Taiwan Taigi,” taking effect in 116年
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
考試院 has decided, based on a proposal from 文化部, to change the subject name for the civil service special examination for people with disabilities from “Minnan” to “Taiwanese.” The change will take effect in 2027.
Smoke at National Energy Storage System Testing Center; Ministry of Economic Affairs says large-scale combustion test is underway
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Smoke was reported at the National Energy Storage System Test Center in Miaoli, but the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection under the Ministry of Economic Affairs said it was related to a large-scale fire safety test and that there were no injuries or equipment damage.
New Taipei: Red-line parking allowed near 14 exam sites during 2-day junior high school comprehensive assessment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In conjunction with the National Junior High School Education Examination on May 16 and 17, 新北市交通局 will allow temporary stopping on red lines, where parking is prohibited, for passenger pickup and drop-off near 14 test venues.
Taishin Shin Kong Financial Holding: Respects regulator's oversight; Shin Kong Life makes additional provision for external purchase price
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台新新光金控 announced that its subsidiary 新光人壽 will respect the Financial Supervisory Commission’s regulatory principles, adjust its accounting treatment and make additional allocations to its foreign exchange fluctuation reserves.
Rat infestations rampant worldwide; Italian expert says public health should be at the core of governance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Amid concerns over hantavirus, Vaia, a former senior official at Italy’s Ministry of Health, sounded the alarm. He stressed the importance of a “One Health” approach that puts the environment, public health and social welfare at the center of policy as a way to address the global rodent problem.
Tsutaya opens its first directly operated store at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park; Kazuma Otsuka: “Not here to do business, but to be a bridge between Taiwan and Japan” [Interview]
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japan’s Tsutaya Bookstore has opened its first directly operated overseas store at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei, Taiwan. Taiwan Tsutaya chairman Kazuma Otsuka said the store aims to serve as a bridge for cultural exchange between Japan and Taiwan, rather than simply as a business. Collaboration with 誠品 is also being considered, rather than competition.
Companies mentioned:株式會社Culture Convenience Club (CCC)、誠品
New Taipei White camp calls proposal for 46,000 in universal cash payments absurd; Green says rising net assets should be put to use
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In New Taipei City, Taiwan, the Taiwan People’s Party criticized as “absurd” the Democratic Progressive Party’s proposal to give residents NT$46,000 in cash. The DPP countered that the city’s net assets have increased and that the funds should be put to use, prompting a dispute between the parties.
Singer Miyuki Kadomatsu, from Kanagawa Prefecture, to throw first pitch at the “Yokohama DeNA BayStars vs. 中日ドラゴンズ” Memoire-sponsored game on May 14, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Singer Miyuki Kadomatsu, who hails from Kanagawa Prefecture, threw out the first pitch at a professional baseball regular-season game at her hometown’s Yokohama Stadium. The appearance was part of a sponsored game by メモワールグループ, for which she appears in a commercial, and gave her a chance to make an impression on local fans ahead of her new song’s release.
NUVVE JAPAN (NVJ) raises ¥200 million through JKISS-type stock acquisition rights
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
V2G technology company NUVVE JAPAN has completed a ¥200 million fundraising round through JKISS-type stock acquisition rights. The funds will go toward strengthening its staffing and expanding its office to support business growth, accelerating expansion of its energy solutions business.
Starring Karen Otomo, co-starring Ryoga Funatsu (超特急) and Reika Sakurai: Final-episode stills, synopsis and promotional video unveiled for Thursday drama “Azato Kawaii Watashi ga Yusho,” with official merchandise sales also announced/May 21 (Thu.), 21:25–21:54
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TOKYO MX has unveiled details of the final episode of its Thursday drama “My Cunningly Cute Self Takes the Crown” and announced a limited-time sale of official original merchandise.
Loewe and On have teamed up to launch the new “LightSpray Cloudmonster” shoe, featuring advanced 3-minute one-piece spray molding technology that combines fashion with an exceptionally lightweight design.
May 13, Tokyo: Imagina to hold a management seminar to help business leaders navigate an unprecedented number of bankruptcy risks. Seminar to reveal ways to transform organizations into “employers of choice” through world-class leader EQ
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Branding company Imagina held a seminar for business leaders amid a record number of bankruptcy risks. To prevent bankruptcies caused by labor shortages, it advocated organizational transformation centered on world-class “leader EQ” and purpose-driven management.
2026-2027 season: Players registered as of May 13, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The T.League has announced the players registered for the 2026-2027 season. Hayato Kizukuri was newly registered with T.T彩たま as of May 13, 2026, and lists of registered men’s and women’s players for each team were released.
To mark its 40th anniversary, Kannai Hall will hold the “Bashamichi Hidamari Concert Vol.56” on August 27, 2026. Artists from 横浜市民広間演奏会 will perform a diverse program ranging from classical to popular music in a special ensemble.
Elegance合同会社 will launch its AI asset management system “Mind NEXUS” on May 1, 2026. Designed for easy use on smartphones without specialized knowledge, the system aims to meet the asset-building needs of first-time investors and people with limited time.
In 150 minutes, learn the “power to believe in yourself” that textbooks don’t teach: “The Miraculous Class I Wish I’d Had” to be held May 30 (Sat.) in Ibaraki, Osaka
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Education group Teacher's Life Design will hold an event in Ibaraki, Osaka Prefecture, for adults and children to develop the “power to believe in yourself.” Education professionals will take the stage for a 150-minute class about the courage to talk about one’s dreams.
[Customer harassment measures] Autonomous phone AI agent “スパ電” updated to meet new laws and regulations, automating emotion analysis, evidence preservation and escalation across phone operations
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
カイタク株式会社 has introduced customer harassment protection features for its phone AI assistant “スパ電” in response to new regulations taking effect in October 2026.
[Deadline approaching] Early-bird visitor registration campaign underway for “IPROS AI 2026 Summer,” with a chance to win an Amazon gift card worth ¥3,000
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
IPROS will hold the “IPROS AI 2026 Summer” exhibition and is running an early visitor registration campaign through May 31, offering a drawing for Amazon gift cards worth ¥3,000.
Companies mentioned:株式会社イプロス、ダイヤ精機株式会社、日本郵政、日本テレビホールディングス、シンフォニーマーケティング株式会社、公益社団法人日本マーケティング協会、株式会社ソラコム、一般社団法人AICX協会、一般社団法人 Women AI Initiative Japan
Original【関内ホール】関内ホール40周年を彩る THE SOULMATICS GOSPEL WORKSHOP(ゴスペルワークショップ) Vol.11
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
横濱関内ホール is holding a gospel choir workshop to mark its 40th anniversary, led by professional group THE SOULMATICS. Participants will perform on stage after completing the workshop.
えねこ will begin offering 長州産業’s high-quality domestically made solar panels and storage systems, featuring high weather resistance and long-term warranties, in May 2026.
“e Fever Karakuri Circus 2: Maou ver.” app set for May 21 release on Gripachi
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
CommSeed announced that the smartphone version of SANKYO’s “eFever Karakuri Circus 2: Maou ver.” pachinko game will launch on May 21 in the virtual lobby game “Gripachi.” Pre-registration is now open.
Companies mentioned:コムシード株式会社、株式会社SANKYO、小学館、ツインエンジン、Sony Music Labels Inc.
COVER Corporation announced that 桃鈴ねね, a VTuber affiliated with hololive, will hold her first solo concert at Tokyo Garden Theater on July 29, 2026. Tickets for both online and in-person viewing are now on sale.
[ホテルメトロポリタン エドモント] “FOURGRAINS” special “Gochi” course available for a limited time
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The French restaurant FOURGRAINS at Tokyo Metropolitan Hotel Edmont will offer a special course featured on a popular variety show from May 19 to June 27, 2026.
[Amazon time sale: 31% off] POCKAM P12PRO with 5 accessories included | 12-inch 2K large-screen, SIM-free 4G LTE-compatible Android 16 tablet on sale at the special price of 27900 yen
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
POCKAM has launched the P12PRO, an Android 16 tablet with a 12-inch 2K large display. It is on sale at Amazon for 27,900 yen, 31% off its list price of 40,900 yen. Supporting Gemini AI and 4G LTE, it is positioned as a strong value for money.
SSFF & ASIA representatives Tetsuya Bessho, Hirona Nagahama and Ayaka Honmo pay a courtesy visit to the governor of 東京都. Governor Koike announces the Excellence Award (Governor’s Award) in the “Cinematic Tokyo” section, selected from 478 works submitted from around the world!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Actor Tetsuya Bessho and festival representatives paid a courtesy visit to Yuriko Koike, governor of 東京都, announced the winning work in the “Cinematic Tokyo” section and introduced their latest short film production plans.
The indie game news program “Yokaze Night 2026.05.14,” where viewers can immerse themselves in game worlds, is streaming. It features new footage from “ghostpia Season Two,” the 6th anniversary of “Unreal Life” and more.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
room6 aired the indie game news program “Yokaze Night 2026.05.14,” unveiling information on several new titles, a sixth-anniversary celebration and collaboration merchandise.
Nothing adds a new blue color to its Ear (open) earbuds.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
London-based technology brand Nothing has announced a new blue version of its open-ear wireless earbuds, Ear (open), priced at 19,800 yen and offering a lightweight, open listening experience.