NT$46 billion to help traditional industries and small and medium-sized enterprises transform; economics minister says more than 6成 of applications approved
Health center director suspected of improperly supplying weight-loss injections; Tainan City Government says they were purchased in the government's name but paid for with personal funds
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Summary not yet available
Facts
Fined NT$100,000
A total of 780 units of the medication were purchased
Police and prosecutors arrest 2 more suspects in 張俊傑's flight-from-justice case; 高金素梅 aide involved
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Summary not yet available
Facts
Original高金素梅被控詐領助理薪資等逾新台幣787萬元
Also allegedly used multiethnic associations to fraudulently claim more than NT$9.33 million in subsidies from government agencies and state-owned enterprises
Prosecutors seek sentences of at least 12 years and 6 months for the 2 defendants
Prosecutors seek sentences of at least 12 years and 6 months for one of the 2 defendants and at least 16 years for the other
After questioning by prosecutors, 陳俊瑋 was released on NT$50,000 bail
陳彥安, the man who lent a vehicle to 陳俊翰, was ordered by prosecutors to post NT$100,000 bail
The global cosmetic surgery industry is shifting away from “apple cheeks” toward a new aesthetic that embraces natural fine lines, reflecting consumers' pursuit of authentic appearances. The trend, driven jointly by celebrities and dermatologists, is reshaping the market.
Industry leaders actively call for government regulation, but Trump and Vance fiercely oppose it on behalf of the White House. What game is really being played in America's showdown between AI and government?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Major US AI companies are calling for government regulation, but President Trump and Vice President Vance are wary of it and oppose it, citing competition with China. This symbolizes the conflict between technological safety and national strategy.
Chiang Ching-kuo denied his own flesh and blood! Former political affairs commissioner lists 3 questions about Chang Hsiao-yen's surname change: The mystery of his parentage should not prompt relentless questioning of Chiang Wan-an
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The controversy over Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an’s ancestry has resurfaced, with former minister without portfolio Chang Ching-sen seeking an explanation from the household registration authorities. The legality of Chang Hsiao-yen’s surname change and the need for DNA testing are the focus.
Will first-time buyers find it even harder to buy? If the central bank raises rates on the 17th, expert warns of a double blow to the housing market: Bears fear another hit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan's central bank will hold a board meeting on September 17, and markets are watching to see whether it will raise interest rates. Housing market expert Lee Tong-jung said a rate hike would deal a double blow to a market already in a correction phase, shrinking transaction volumes and increasing the burden on homebuyers.
China sent agents to gather intelligence? Mysterious female cleaner sneaks into restricted area during Hsiao Bi-khim’s visit to Italy; Lin Chia-lung: Referred to Italian police
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
An Asian woman acting suspiciously appeared at a democratic forum in Italy while Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim was attending. Chinese espionage is suspected, and Italian police are responding.
Economic debate: Everyday life in the U.S. has already ‘declined sharply’! Six charts expose the economic façade in official U.S. data…
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Official US employment statistics are positive, but consumers feel deep economic anxiety. Surveys by the University of Michigan and ガラップ have highlighted the gap.
U.S. ‘economic isolation campaign’ sanctions Russian banks; Bessent warns groups aiding Iran: We know who you are
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The US Treasury has sanctioned Russia’s VTB Bank over suspected support for Iran. Secretary Bessent warned that the United States would identify and eliminate collaborators one after another through an “economic isolation campaign.” The impact on international finance is a concern.
The ‘extremely yin day’ of the Mid-Autumn Festival arrives on 9/25! Fortune teller urges 4 zodiac signs to avoid the moon and ward off bad luck, and says this trick can help
You can sue for damages if your partner cheats before marriage! Lawyer reveals 5 key pieces of evidence to preserve; fiancé caught cheating with female colleague
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A case came to light in which a fiancé had an affair with a female colleague 2 months before his wedding and tried to cover it up with falsified location data. A lawyer said damages can be sought even for infidelity before marriage and recommended preserving 5 types of evidence.
When you see a yellow light, should you speed up or brake? Police reveal enforcement standards: a violation can bring an immediate 5400-yuan fine, and many drivers get it wrong
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Taoyuan City Police Department explained the rules for driving at a yellow light: vehicles that have not crossed the line should stop, while those that have crossed it should proceed. Running a red light carries a maximum fine of 5400 yuan. The issue has sparked widespread discussion about driving behavior and understanding of the law.
Mainland Chinese tourists are no longer going to Japan and South Korea! 3.54 million Chinese visitors flocked to one country; Taiwanese love going there for independent travel, fun and low prices
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
About 16 million foreign visitors traveled to Vietnam in the first 8 months of 2026, with China the largest source of tourists. Russia surged 165.7% year over year to rank third, while more than 860,000 people visited from Taiwan, among other signs of growing interest from Asia and Europe.
Major reversal in U.S. energy policy! Trump administration scraps restrictions on fossil-fuel power generation; experts warn public health could pay the price
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The US Environmental Protection Agency has repealed power plant emissions regulations introduced under the Biden administration. Lower energy prices are expected, but concerns remain about the effects on health and the environment, and legal disputes are also anticipated.
Companies mentioned:Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES)
Today’s top news (09/15)! China’s new entry-exit rules take effect today, 9/15: Everything you need to know/Labor Ministry issues benefit payments today: Full schedule for 16 payments/Will Typhoon Dujuan affect Taiwan?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
China’s new entry and exit system took effect on September 15, and Taiwan authorities warned of 5 high-risk groups, including semiconductor talent. Meanwhile, the Labor Ministry began distributing 16 types of benefits, and the weather changed sharply. This information has direct implications for the safety and daily lives of Taiwan residents.
Tech debate: 33-year-old Chinese AI prodigy gives up Carnegie doctorate prestige to start a company back home; now he is Trump’s biggest headache…
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Yang Zhilin, a 33-year-old Chinese AI researcher, returned to China after earning a doctorate from Carnegie Mellon University and founded Moonshot AI. Its AI model development is considered a threat to the United States and has drawn the Trump administration’s attention.
Companies mentioned:Apple、Carnegie Mellon University
Jing Boran’s 《早春晴朗》 only ranks 4th! The champion of Netflix’s 2026 top 10 mainland Chinese dramas is this one: It outperforms Zhang Linghe’s 《逐玉》 in ratings; you’ll regret missing it
Fubon Life Management Master’s and Doctoral Thesis Award draws nearly a thousand entries; young researchers focus on a sustainable future, from climate action to industrial innovation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 35th Management Master’s and Doctoral Thesis Award, sponsored by Fubon Life, was held on September 12 and attracted nearly a thousand submissions, with three in ten focused on sustainable development. The award promotes industry-academia collaboration and cultivates management talent with innovative thinking and an international outlook.
‘Southern Taiwan’s all-you-can-eat spicy hot pot king’ announces branch closure! Open only through 10/26; final deal includes premium A5 Wagyu
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Kaohsiung Dream Mall branch of popular hot pot chain 饗麻饗辣 will close on October 26. Bringing years of business to an end, it is running a weekday-only campaign offering A5 Wagyu as a final thank-you.
Transportation Ministry announces new rules! Nationwide implementation begins 9/30, with a ‘36,000-yuan fine for violations’; latest license plate rules explained
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Ministry of Transportation and Communications and the Ministry of Finance have worked together to introduce a new system nationwide on September 30 targeting unregistered vehicle operation and improper use of license plates. The maximum fine has been raised to 36,000 yuan, and the responsibilities of the relevant agencies have also been clarified.
Will a new representative office in the Philippines open before year-end? Lin Chia-lung confirms it is ‘in progress’: Everything is going smoothly so far
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung confirmed that Taiwan is establishing a new representative office in Cebu, the Philippines. The move comes amid efforts to strengthen Taiwan-Philippines relations and expand economic ties.
Is sea burial really just scattering ashes directly into the sea? The urn isn’t simply tipped out—the actual process is not what you might expect
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Unlike in the movies, where an urn of ashes is tipped into the sea, Taiwan’s sea burials are environmentally conscious natural burials carried out through a strict process under regulations, including regrinding the ashes and using biodegradable containers.
BMW and Audi lose! The most durable car brand is ‘this one’; owners praise its affordability, fuel efficiency and easy maintenance, saying its value for money has no rival
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
According to a report released by US research firm iSeeCars, Toyota ranked No. 1 in durability, with about 20% of its vehicles reaching more than 250,000 miles. Japanese brands dominated the top rankings, while German cars performed poorly.
Tech debate: Are they shooting themselves in the foot? Three leading U.S. AI figures call for development to slow down! Could safety concerns halt the bull market?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
AI leaders Musk, Altman and Amodei have called for slowing AI development. Their warnings about the threat of uncontrolled AI have raised tensions across the industry.
梁社漢 and 悟饕 lose! The champion of Taiwan’s top 10 bento ranking has ‘tender meat, plenty of vegetables and generous portions’: unbeatable value for money
Gave children 2.44 million yuan in one year and was hit with a 730,000-yuan tax bill! Tax bureau reveals one overlooked detail led to back taxes and penalties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan’s tax bureau warned the public that the gift tax exemption is calculated per ‘donor,’ not ‘recipient’; misunderstanding the rule could lead to back taxes and fines. One person mistakenly multiplied the exemption by the number of their three children and was ordered to pay 732,000 yuan in taxes.
A fishery-and-solar project in Qigu District, Tainan, fell into disrepair after failing to meet requirements for an operating permit. Despite having a contract with 台積電, the related company 誠新綠能 went bankrupt over 4.7 billion yen in fraudulent loans. 林伯翰 and others were detained, casting doubt on the reliability of green energy investments.
Are wages in Taiwan uniformly low? A look at the latest salary data: monthly and annual salary calculations differ greatly; 126萬 people meet one standard
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan’s Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics analyzed wage data using OECD standards and said about 126萬 people meet the definition of low-paid workers when calculated based on total annual salary. The finding clears up the misconception that “earning below the average means low pay” and highlights the importance of statistical methods.
Exclusive》Prophetic warning? 4 years ago, Costco shoppers complained that its rotisserie chicken “smelled of cleaning products”; store admits dirty oven-cleaning water splashed onto chickens and offers refunds
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Dirty water reportedly splashed onto rotisserie chickens for sale while an oven was being cleaned at Costco’s Kaohsiung Dashun store, raising food safety concerns. The health department intervened and ordered corrective action; the company admitted fault and offered refunds.
Store water now! Major water outages in 16 counties and cities across Taiwan, lasting up to 20 hours—from early morning until 5 a.m. tomorrow; outage areas and times at a glance
The Wall Street Journal》America’s great AI panic erupts across the country
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Social anxiety about AI is spreading rapidly in the United States, triggered by an Anthropic researcher’s warning that AI could destroy human civilization. The issue has entered the mainstream, with companies and the public increasingly concerned about AI regulation and safety.
Still working after retiring at 65 and claiming labor insurance benefits? Workers can apply for 5 more payments! Amounts and eligibility at a glance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan’s Labor Ministry has reiterated that workers aged 65 or older who return to work after receiving labor insurance pensions must enroll in occupational accident insurance. It has publicized the application requirements for 5 types of benefits and urged employers to comply.
International buzz》The world’s most powerful cancer treatment is in Shanghai! CAR-T cell immunotherapy costs just 1/3 as much, and even a leading U.S. cancer expert recommends it..
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
CAR-T cell immunotherapy offered in Shanghai, China, has attracted attention because it costs less than 1/3 of the price in the United States. Experts at the US-based MDアンダーソン癌センター have also recommended that overseas patients seek treatment in China, drawing growing international interest.
A big change in fortune after middle age! The 「5 zodiac signs」 whose lives improve with age, as wealth and relationships flourish and retirement brings comfort
Fatty liver isn’t just caused by eating too much fat! Nutritionist names 5 foods to avoid, including sweets and cheese
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Fatty liver is caused not only by oil consumption but also by sweet foods, processed meats, fried foods and ultra-processed foods. A nutritionist has identified 5 risky foods and explained their effects.
He warned early of the Taiwan stock market’s September curse! Di Xiang cut holdings in advance and dodged a “2,000-point wipeout”; names 4 major headwinds and looks forward to a “brilliant October”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Financial writer 狄驤 (Dixiang) warned of the “September curse” and reduced his stock holdings early to avoid risk. His comments on 4 sources of uncertainty and expectations for a “Golden October” have drawn investors’ attention.
Schroders: The economy has shifted to “三 highs”; smart allocation through active, multi-asset investing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Dorian Carrell of 施羅德投資 said the economic environment has shifted to “high deficits, high inflation and high supply.” He recommended moving away from the traditional 60/40 portfolio toward diversification and short-term fixed-income assets. He also expressed caution about AI investments.
Practicing the art of living well through the 五 senses: artist Zheng Zihan explores Wulai’s mountains and waters, finding cultural warmth in sounds, objects and everyday rituals
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Artist Zheng Zihan took part in a 五-senses cultural experience in Wulai, exploring cultural warmth through sounds, objects and everyday rituals and incorporating her impressions into her own work. The experience led her to rethink the relationship between art and daily life and turn sensory experiences into creative inspiration.
Functional titanium technology brings fabric protection into everyday long-term care; iROO visits Hsinchu Veterans Home
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
iROO donated Fresh Cloth fabric-refreshing spray to 新竹榮民之家 and launched the “Silver-Haired Care Protection Plan.” Its functional titanium technology supports hygiene in the daily lives of older people.
It rivals avocados and blueberries! Experts reveal 1 “superfruit” that can lower blood pressure and protect cardiovascular health; effects seen after eating 3
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Research shows that eating 3 kiwifruit a day can lower systolic blood pressure by an average of 5.73 mmHg. It is an effective dietary intervention for people with borderline high blood pressure and may help reduce cardiovascular risk.
Where to go on a trip to Tainan? 5 popular attractions, from a stroll along Guohua Street to Shennong Street and Anping Fort
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台南旅行小幫手 has announced 5 top tourist attractions recommended for independent travel in Tainan. The guide covers food, history, religion and culture and aims to promote tourism.
Will everyone receive 10,000 before Lunar New Year? Investor points to Taiwan’s “September tax payments” system: they’re the best at managing cash flow
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A Taiwan investor compared companies’ provisional tax payments in September with the government’s cash benefit proposal, making a sarcastic point about the government’s advantage in managing cash flow. The comparison highlighted contradictions in policy and taxation.
How to plan an independent trip to Greece? Prepare this way starting 10 months before departure, from flights and island-hopping to budgeting
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
An article explains how to plan an independent trip to Greece, outlining a step-by-step preparation process starting 10 months before departure. It analyzes practical elements of a successful independent trip, including island selection, transportation, budget management and choosing travel companions.
Why does the Taipei Metro station “Guangci / Fengtian Temple” have 2 names? They weren’t simply put together—the story lies in local history
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The new Taipei Metro station 廣慈/奉天宮站 will open on August 30, 2026. Its name reflects the historical backgrounds of the social welfare facility 廣慈 and the local temple 奉天宮, symbolizing an effort to preserve local memory amid urban development.
Economic buzz》A rate hike is almost a foregone conclusion! Fed whisperer: The question now is how many times rates should be raised…
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The US Federal Reserve is widely expected to raise interest rates for the first time in 3 years, drawing attention to the direction of monetary policy. The move is mainly aimed at curbing inflation and will have a major impact on markets.
Take note when you fuel up! CPC’s new rules take effect in September: 1 free service disappears nationwide, but one extra step gets you a discount; new fees at a glance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台湾中油公司 announced changes to its membership services effective September 1, phasing out free physical VIP cards in favor of the digital platform “CPC Pay” and offering incentives such as bonus points.
Major new Ministry of Labor rules take effect in September! Pension regulations overhauled; workers can receive up to 60000 for this payment—6 key changes at a glance
Northern Taiwan’s largest department store opens tomorrow, 9/16! “A massive 3.8萬-ping mall with more than 500 brands,” right outside the Metro station; transport deals at a glance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
遠東SOGO is opening the Garden City department store at Taipei Dome on September 16. The complex spans 3.8萬 ping and will host more than 500 brands. It is targeting younger shoppers and rolling out generous rewards and prize draws to strengthen its market position.
星宇股份 contract termination controversy: 107 recent graduates “appeal to foreign companies,” highlighting the state of labor rights in China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The controversy over Chinese automotive lighting parts giant 星宇股份 terminating contracts with 107 new graduates has widened after complaints were made to downstream companies overseas. The issue has attracted international attention as an ESG concern and exposed challenges in China’s system for protecting workers’ rights.
Paralyzed from the waist down at 20 and living with a tumor for 10 years: people with rare soft-tissue tumors hope not to be forgotten by the system
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Jiang Jiaying, an advocacy director at 台灣年輕病友協會, shared her experience of being diagnosed with a malignant soft-tissue sarcoma at 20 and becoming paralyzed from the waist down. She has lived with the tumor for nearly 10 years and is calling for the system to address the medical and social challenges faced by people with rare tumors. The association is conducting a care survey to advocate for health equity.
How much compensation can you get after a car accident? The “real calculations” for medical expenses, vehicle depreciation and emotional distress damages at a glance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Summary not yet available
Facts
Private passenger cars are generally assigned a useful life of 5 years
Motorcycles are generally assigned a useful life of 3 years
The claim is extinguished if not exercised within 2 years from the time the claimant becomes aware of the damage and the person liable for compensation.
The same applies if more than 10 years have passed since the tortious act.
Top ten “rubber-stamp councils” revealed: Taiwan Forward says Hsinchu County’s 22 years of budgets with zero cuts are the most severe case
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台湾前進陣線 analyzed budget documents from all 22 counties and cities across Taiwan for 2022-2026 and identified a “rubber-stamp council” pattern in which budgets saw zero cuts in 10 jurisdictions. Hsinchu County was the most extreme case, with zero cuts for 22 consecutive years. The group criticized shortcomings in legislative oversight and proposed reforms to make budget reviews more transparent.
Embrace the mountains and waters, and let your heart expand alongside the world! At Volando Urai, art, soothing hot springs and a feast for the senses welcome you to savor life at an unhurried pace amid verdant mountains and clear waters.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Volando Urai combines nature, art and hot springs in its lodging experience, using sensory design to help guests rediscover inner peace amid the mountains and waters. This redefines the value of immersive travel.
AI data centers scramble for high-speed optical modules! Fund doctor reveals 00877’s “Yi Zhong Tian” trio and the secret behind the optical communications surge
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Demand for AI computing power is surging, driving rapid growth in the high-speed optical module market. China’s “易中天” trio is at the center of the global supply chain. The 00877 ETF offers direct exposure to this trend.
September ETF ex-dividend season arrives! 4 high-dividend ETFs offer annualized distributions exceeding 16%, but their total returns lag behind 00929 and 00939
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
During September’s ETF ex-dividend season, many ETFs touted high dividends, but 復華台灣科技優息 (00929) ranked first with about 71% in total return including distributions, a measure of actual investment performance. The results showed that a high dividend yield alone does not guarantee asset growth.
Nvidia faces the risk of concentrating AI sales among a small number of major customers, while CFO Kress has stressed that its “new cloud” strategy can deliver dual revenue streams. If successful, the strategy could become a source of recurring revenue.
AI leaders call for slowing down! Chip stocks become a “pain trade” as SOXX plunges nearly 6%; investors reassess spending
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Optimism about semiconductor stocks receded after AI industry leaders proposed slowing the pace of development, sending SOXX down 5.6%. Investors are reassessing the sustainability of AI-related spending.
NATO fighter jets scrambled and shot down a drone that crossed into Lithuania
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
NATO fighter jets shot down a drone that entered Lithuanian airspace. Its origin is unknown, but it may have come via Belarus, drawing attention to regional security.
Market volatility triggers a major shake-up in holdings: active Taiwan-stock ETFs lose 165,000 beneficiaries in a month as funds rush into overseas assets
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
In August 2026, the number of beneficiaries of Taiwan active ETFs fell by 165,000 in a single month as funds shifted toward overseas assets. This reflects investors’ risk management in response to market volatility and growing diversification in asset allocation.
BizLink’s Liang Hua-che: Two key considerations guide cross-border expansion and acquisitions; many targets have approached us in recent years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
BizLink-KY Chairman Liang Hua-che said cross-border acquisitions require weighing risks and returns. Years of integration have built the company’s professional reputation and attracted many prospective targets, underscoring the results of its global expansion.
7 major measures to boost smart-home consumption! China’s 8 ministries and commissions: speed up development and implementation of national standards, including interoperability standards
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
China’s 8 ministries have announced 7 major measures to promote smart home consumption. The measures aim to boost market growth through standardization, subsidies and support for older people. Policy-led adoption of smart homes is accelerating.
Move to rescue the K-shaped industry split! Kung Ming-hsin: Starting next year, 25 billion a year to drive AI transformation at 1 million small and medium-sized enterprises
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin announced that 25 billion yen will be invested annually starting next year to support AI transformation among traditional industries and small and medium-sized businesses. The goal is to help 1 million companies adopt AI.
Last day to subscribe to Cathay 00770! One extra distribution this year; distribution of 6 per unit, going ex-dividend tomorrow
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Cathay North American Technology ETF (00770-TW) will go ex-dividend tomorrow, distributing a record 6 per unit. It will also have its second ex-dividend date this year following an adjustment to its income distribution mechanism. The change may help investors with annual financial planning and highlights the ETF’s strategic role in AI technology investing.
Stock focus: Maywufa’s revenue for the first 8 months tops 20 billion, making it the biotech revenue leader; shares rise to reclaim the 5-day moving average
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
美時 (1795-TW) recorded revenue of 22.052 billion yuan in the first 8 months, up 70% year on year, driven by the acquisition of Alvogen and contributions from B2B products, vaulting to the top of the biotech industry by sales. The strong performance lifted its share price, which recovered above its 5-day moving average.
DRAM and NAND prices both jump at least 30%! Chinese media: Apple accepts Samsung’s memory pricing for Q1 2027
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Apple accepted Samsung's memory prices for Q1 2027, with DRAM and NAND prices rising 30-40%. This signals a floor in the consumer memory market and will make price negotiations more difficult for other manufacturers.