Chen Chun-chi: Considering paid parental leave for young male and female farmers on the same basis as workers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Agriculture Minister Chen Chun-chi announced that 農業部 is considering allocating funds to give young male and female farmers paid parental leave on the same basis as workers, with the aim of launching the program next year.
He Hsin-chun rolls out fundraising Pure Cup; Chiang Chi-chen offers “Taichung Flavor” towels
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
He Hsin-chun, the Democratic Progressive Party's candidate for Taichung mayor, and Chiang Chi-chen, the Kuomintang's candidate for Taichung mayor, have each launched fundraising items, including the “Pure Cup” and “Taichung Flavor” towels, to support their respective campaigns.
Taiwan men's compound archery team wins its first Asian Games medal; 18-year-old Yen Tzu-hsiang: “I like the feeling of looking cool”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's men's compound archery team defeated South Korea 234-233 in the bronze-medal match at the Nagoya Asian Games, winning the archery team's first-ever men's compound team medal. 18-year-old Yen Tzu-hsiang delivered a steady performance as the final shooter.
Can teenagers see mental health specialists without a parent? Shih Chung-liang: Counseling does not require parents to attend
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Health and Welfare Minister Shih Chung-liang said that under the Psychologists Act, counseling does not require a parent to attend if a teenager has sufficient capacity to understand and the individual's best interests are the primary consideration. However, when it comes to psychiatric consultations, diagnoses and medication, the matter involves the Medical Care Act and the Physicians Act, and the ministry is still considering whether parental consent and attendance can be waived.
Nangan Airport temporarily suspends takeoffs and landings; Lienchiang County Government adds boat services to transport passengers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Nangan Airport temporarily suspended takeoffs and landings due to weather, and a total of 4 flights were canceled. To transport stranded passengers, 連江縣政府 added an evening sailing of the 台馬之星 ferry.
A warm welcome from nature! 4 rural micro-tours savor the flavors of Hualien's East Rift Valley
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Eastern Region Branch of 農糧署東區分署 has teamed up with 6 townships and cities in Hualien, 19 organic brands and 6 boutique inns to offer 4 rural micro-tour itineraries combining farming experiences with visits to local producers. Promotional prices start at NT$1,500 per person.
Facts
6 townships and cities in Hualien
19 organic brands
6 boutique inns
4 itineraries combining farming experiences
Limited to 14 people per tour
Promotional prices start at NT$1,500 per person
Organic and eco-friendly farmland in Yilan, Hualien and Taitung spans more than 8,100 hectares
艾杰旭 union to strike on October 5; Labor Ministry urges company to show goodwill
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Employees of Japanese-owned 艾杰旭顯示玻璃公司 launched a strike on October 5 over long-term low wages and the employer's unilateral lowering of working conditions. The union went to the Labor Ministry to request mediation. The ministry said it respected the union's legal right to strike and urged the employer to show goodwill. 艾杰旭 said it had submitted a proposal and invited the union to resume talks tomorrow.
Taichung City Government distributes Double Ninth Festival cash gifts for seniors; more than 530,000 older residents to benefit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung City Government begins distributing Double Ninth Festival cash gifts for seniors today, with more than 530,000 older residents expected to benefit. The amount varies by age. Centenarians will also receive gold lockets and certificates of recognition from the Presidential Office. In addition, the Social Affairs Bureau has expanded its Senior Citizens Month activities, while Wanhe Temple in Nantun will give longevity noodles and extra cash gifts to older residents in the district.
Sweden announces its alternative Nobel Prize laureates; AI researcher and human rights advocates honored
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Sweden's Right Livelihood Award has announced its laureates: U.S. AI researcher Gebru, Pakistani human rights lawyer Dad, and 2 women-led human rights groups, the Rural Women's Assembly and the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association.
Facts
Across 11 countries in southern Africa
More than 178,000 smallholder farmers are involved
The Right Livelihood Award was established in 1980 by Swedish-German stamp collector Jakob von Uexkull
Companies mentioned：中央訊息、法新社、人工智慧領域的黑人社群、分散式人工智慧研究協會、Distributed AI Research Institute、DAIR、優質民生獎基金會、諾貝爾獎基金會
Massive fire at Keelung's Tianwaitian landfill; thick smoke billows skyward as firefighters battle blaze
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A fire broke out this afternoon at the Tianwaitian landfill in Keelung, where a large number of discarded spring mattresses caught fire and produced thick smoke. The fire department dispatched a large number of personnel and vehicles, with water tanker trucks from New Taipei City also sent to assist.
Technology stocks rallied, led by silicon wafer maker 勝高 and semiconductor materials manufacturer 昭和電工, offsetting concerns over rising bond yields. Tokyo's Nikkei index surged 1.94%.
Will a borrowed hand help Chiang Wan-an? Eric Chu: It is my duty
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former Kuomintang chairman Eric Chu said helping Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an was his duty, and that he would return to New Taipei to cheer on Kuomintang New Taipei mayoral candidate Lee Chuan, stressing that voters should unite to ensure victory.
裕民航運 announced that its Singapore subsidiary acquired 6 bulk carriers as part of its fleet renewal and business expansion, in a transaction valued at between US$296 million and US$312 million.
Facts
4 bulk carriers of 64,000 deadweight tons (DWT)
2 bulk carriers of 211,000 deadweight tons
Total transaction value: US$296 million to US$312 million
Total amount: US$142 million to US$152 million
Total amount: US$154 million to US$160 million
Companies mentioned：裕民航運、裕民航運（新加坡）、Sumec Marine Co., Ltd、New Dayang Shipbuilding Co., Ltd、Jiangsu Hantong Ship Heavy Industry Co., Ltd.
Tseng Pei-yu showcases her versatility; 中山73 presents a special program of selected works
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中山73影視藝文空間 is presenting a special program of selected works by actor Tseng Pei-yu this month, with a discussion event scheduled for October 17. A war-themed film festival, “和平最前線,” is also planned for October.
Shen Po-yang campaign headquarters opening rally on 10/4; traffic controls planned around Beiping East Road
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
DPP Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang will hold an opening rally for his campaign headquarters on October 4. To maintain order during the event, Taipei police announced traffic controls around Beiping East Road in Zhongzheng District from October 2 to 5.
Man assaults girlfriend in public in New Taipei’s Luzhou as young son watches; arrested and remanded
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man assaulted his girlfriend in public in Luzhou District, New Taipei, with their young son witnessing the incident. Police quickly took him into custody, and prosecutors, finding that he was suspected of assault and posed a risk of reoffending, secured a court order for his detention.
Three major institutional investors buy a net NT$38.657 billion in Taiwan stocks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan stocks closed up 308.17 points today at 47,940.13, with turnover reaching NT$875.672 billion. The three major institutional investors were net buyers of a combined NT$38.657 billion, with foreign and mainland Chinese investors making the largest net purchases.
Costa Rica leads in fourth round of Security Council vote on UN secretary-general candidates
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The UN Security Council held a fourth round of straw polling to select the next secretary-general, with former Costa Rican Vice President Rebeca Grynspan holding a narrow lead.
Tom Cruise goes all out: “Digger” look shocks Berlin actress, who falls off her chair
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tom Cruise breaks from his usual image in his new film “Digger,” playing an oil tycoon with a deeply wrinkled face, white hair and a beer belly. The dramatic transformation startled Berlin award-winning actress Sandra Hüller, causing her to fall from her chair.
China’s non-manufacturing PMI rises to 50.2% in September as activity edges up
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s non-manufacturing PMI rose to 50.2% in September, with construction returning to expansion. Activity was stronger in telecommunications, finance and other sectors, while capital market services and real estate remained weak.
Facts
September reading: 50.2%
Up 1.2 percentage points from August
Stayed in contraction at 49.0% in July and August
Above 55.0%
The services business activity expectations index was 55.5%
The construction business activity index was 50.3% in September
Up 3.4 percentage points from August
The construction business activity expectations index was 55.4%
Taiwan's men's compound archery team beats South Korea to win bronze at Nagoya Asian Games
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's men's compound archery team defeated South Korea 234-233 in the bronze-medal match at the Nagoya Asian Games, winning the event's first medal.
Voyeurism at an East Coast campground during Mid-Autumn Festival holiday; more than 5 victims, suspect detained
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A voyeurism incident occurred at an East Coast campground during the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday. Police arrested the suspect, and prosecutors' request to detain him was approved. Preliminary investigations found more than 5 tourists were victimized.
Nagoya mayor apologizes for repeated Asian Games errors; expert says coordination lacked professionalism
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Operational problems at the Nagoya Asian Games, including accommodation and transportation issues and the wrong national anthem being played, have surfaced one after another. Nagoya Mayor Ichiro Hirozawa apologized to the athletes. Expert Ryu Honma said the repeated errors stemmed mainly from a lack of a professional coordination team, excessive cost-cutting and delayed recruitment, and suggested Japan reconsider the need to bid for major sporting events.
Facts
Opens on September 19
CNA, Nagoya, 30th
More than 100 employees of major advertising agency 電通
Initially estimated at about 100 billion yen
The event's budget has now ballooned to a total of 370 billion yen
OpenAI launches all-day assistant dots to take on Meta Muse
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
OpenAI launched an all-day AI agent called dots on September 29. Powered by the GPT-6 Astra model, it can independently carry out user-defined goals across apps, deepening the company's push into the enterprise market and competing with Meta's AI agent Muse, launched this month. OpenAI also introduced the shared workspace ChatGPT Space, the lower-priced GPT-6.1 Sol model and a Pro plan costing $500 per month at its annual developer day event in San Francisco on the same day.
Facts
U.S. artificial intelligence (AI) company OpenAI launched an all-day AI agent called dots on September 29
Instinct, the startup that launched an AI agent of the same name, was also valued at $10 billion this week
4 times the amount raised just over 1 month ago
Meta's Muse has accumulated millions of downloads earlier this month
The company also launched the lower-priced GPT-6.1 Sol model and a Pro plan costing $500 per month, which offers higher usage limits and faster performance
Companies mentioned：OpenAI、Meta、Instinct、Slack、Microsoft Teams
Tatis homers for first run, King pitches brilliantly as Padres shut out Cubs in wild-card opener
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Padres shut out the Cubs 8-0 in the opening game of the National League Wild Card Series. Tatis hit a record-setting postseason home run for the team, while King and Musgrove pitched superbly to give the Padres the series lead.
Facts
Shut out the Cubs 8-0
Struck out 8
This was his first Major League appearance since October 2, 2024
2 dead, 1 injured in attack at closed Kaohsiung Fengshan wellness center; 4 suspects accused of murder and prosecutors seek detention without visitors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A knife attack at a wellness center in Fengshan, Kaohsiung, left 2 people dead and 1 injured. Prosecutors sought detention for 4 suspects on charges of joint murder.
Under threat of deportation, Myanmar refugees in Malaysia caught between staying and leaving
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Malaysia deported 1476 Myanmar nationals yesterday and plans to deport a total of 5000 in phases. The move has left refugee communities in Malaysia facing a dilemma over whether to stay or leave. Prime Minister Anwar stressed the need to protect human rights and welfare, while noting that Malaysia has not signed the Refugee Convention but hosts large numbers of refugees, including Rohingya and Chin people.
Facts
1476 Myanmar nationals deported
1370 men
79 women
20 boys
7 girls
Ages ranged from 8 to 60
Confirmed that 5000 Myanmar nationals would be included in a voluntary, phased deportation plan
Of the 193,824 refugees from Myanmar
126,144 are Rohingya
15,774 are Chin
33,002 are members of other ethnic groups who fled Myanmar because of conflict or persecution
The remaining approximately 21,776 are refugees and asylum seekers
Two retired Chinese military personnel charged over alleged theft of South Korean and U.S. Forces Korea secrets
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
South Korean prosecutors have charged 2 retired Chinese military personnel, accusing them of stealing secrets from the South Korean military and U.S. Forces Korea. The alleged offenses include wiretapping base communications over an extended period, collecting large amounts of intercepted data and smuggling it to China, stealing information about joint military exercises and recruiting personnel.
Facts
Two former Chinese military personnel
Between March 2024 and August this year
Wiretapped 13 times
The intelligence operative, in his 60s
Served for about 40 years
13.9TB of intercepted data
The other suspect is a 45-year-old former member of a PLA special forces unit
Yu Tzu-yu takes charge of fertility in new drama, boasts her face is full of collagen like an “old baby”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Actor Yu Tzu-yu plays an assistant in charge of fertility in the new drama “New to the Road.” She boasts that her face is full of collagen, like an “old baby.” The entire series will be available on Netflix on Oct. 18, with 民視 airing the premiere simultaneously.
Taiwan stocks climbed 1,814 points in the 3rd quarter after an initial dip; institutions see a push toward 50,000 points in the 4th quarter
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan stocks climbed 1,814 points in the 3rd quarter after an initial dip, and institutions see a push toward 50,000 points in the 4th quarter. Meta’s newly launched Muse has sparked a wave of AI agents. 輝達（NVIDIA） is evaluating the possible use of glass substrates in next-generation AI chip packaging, boosting the display panel sector. 台塑集團 is expanding its presence in the semiconductor chemicals market and announced a joint venture with 中華化 to expand its electronic-grade sulfuric acid production line.
“The Twilight Saga: New Moon” film concert to light up stage with 1,000 candles
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The world premiere of “The Twilight Saga: New Moon” film concert will be held in November at 衛武營歌劇院 in Taiwan and 台北國家音樂廳, with 1,000 candles creating an immersive stage.
Rainbow cigarette drug factory found in Taoyuan home; police arrest 2 suspects in full-scale operation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Third Special Police Corps uncovered a rainbow cigarette drug factory hidden in a Taoyuan home and arrested Zhang and Li, two suspects. Police seized drugs and equipment, including 7 cigarette-rolling machines.
Facts
7 cigarette-rolling machines set up at the site
Estimated capacity of 6,000 rainbow cigarettes
Seized 1,037 grams of the Category 3 drug α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone
15 sorties of Chinese military aircraft joined Chinese warships in combat patrol near Taiwan from morning; military monitoring
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ministry of National Defense said that from 9:12 a.m., China sent 21 sorties of military aircraft out to sea, with 15 sorties crossing the median line and intruding into airspace north, central and southwest of Taiwan in coordination with Chinese warships for a “joint combat readiness patrol.” Taiwan’s military closely monitored the situation and responded appropriately.
Zelenskyy discloses transfer of North Korean POWs; Seoul suspects move aims to win support for aid to Ukraine
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
South Korean lawmakers believe Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s public disclosure that 2 North Korean prisoners of war had been transferred to South Korea may have been intended to win public support for providing Ukraine with weapons and other aid. South Korea expressed serious concern and dissatisfaction that Ukraine disclosed the matter without prior consultation.
Facts
2 North Korean prisoners of war
Two North Korean soldiers
Arrived in South Korea from Ukraine in mid-September
Kaohsiung family amusement park draws crowds, welcoming 80,000 visitors over the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kaohsiung family amusement park attracted about 80,000 visitors over the 4-day Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, with visitors from other counties and cities accounting for 55%. The Public Works Bureau will continue to strengthen facility maintenance and safety management.
Two consecutive shootings on Kobe streets leave 2 hospitalized, 1 dead
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Two shootings occurred in succession in the streets of Chuo and Hyogo wards in Kobe, Japan, in the afternoon, leaving one man dead from serious injuries and another man wounded and taken to hospital. Police arrested a suspect in Hyogo Ward and suspect the same person was responsible for both cases.
Facts
Shootings at 2 locations in Kobe
One victim died from serious injuries
A man in his 60s was shot in the abdomen
A 54-year-old man was shot in the back
The locations of the 2 incidents are about 4 kilometers apart
Taitung artwork “The Vanishing Boat and Landscape”; Chen Ying seeks to preserve it at its original site
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The artwork “The Vanishing Boat and Landscape” at Taitung Seashore Park was slated for removal due to a Water Resources Agency project. After Legislator Chen Ying intervened, the agency agreed to keep it at its original site in accordance with the school’s wishes, preserving its local cultural and artistic value.
遠百: Taiwan’s economic growth boosts consumer spending; anniversary sale revenue forecast to rise 3.5%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
遠東百貨 Chief Operating Officer Lin Chang-feng said Taiwan’s economic growth has boosted consumer spending. This year, anniversary sale revenue for 遠百 stores across Taiwan is projected at about NT$12.6 billion, up about 3.5% from last year.
Tsai Yi-yu: Seeking funding to help Fanlu establish cold-chain processing and stabilize farmers’ income
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Tsai Yi-yu secured NT$210 million in funding to help 嘉義縣番路鄉農會 build cold-chain and processing facilities, increasing persimmon processing capacity from 150 tons to 600 tons to stabilize farmers’ income.
October electronic futures rise; financial futures fall
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei stocks rose 308.17 points today to close at 47,940.13 points. October electronic futures closed at 3,065.15 points, up 24.65 points; October financial futures closed at 3,552.40 points, down 14.20 points.
Facts
Gained 308.17 points
Closed at 47,940.13 points
October electronic futures closed at 3,065.15 points
Rose 24.65 points
Positive spread of 21.29 points
October financial futures closed at 3,552.40 points
Fell 14.20 points
Positive spread of 8.02 points
60 contracts traded
The electronic spot index closed at 3043.86 points
Kaohsiung city councilor gives sapling to Chen Chi-mai, hoping it will grow into a tree that shelters the people from wind and rain
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After a general interpellation on municipal affairs, Kaohsiung city councilor Tang Yung-yu gave outgoing Mayor Chen Chi-mai a Chinese pistache sapling, hoping it would one day grow into a tree that shelters the people of Taiwan from wind and rain. The two also posed for a photo.
U.S. Supreme Court allows deportation of undocumented immigrants to third countries
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. Supreme Court granted an emergency request by the 司法部 to pause enforcement of a ruling by District Judge Murphy, allowing the Trump administration to resume its policy of deporting undocumented immigrants to third countries. The court will hear arguments in the case in December.
October Taiwan stock index futures rise 549 points
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
October Taiwan index futures closed up 549 points at 48330 points, while the spot index closed at 47940.13 points, a positive spread of 389.87 points. 台灣期貨交易所 announced the opening reference prices for index futures contracts for the next 2 months.
奇美醫院 joins Lions Club to donate mobile medical equipment for remote communities in eastern Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國際獅子會300E-1區 partnered with 奇美醫院 to donate a mobile medical vehicle and various types of home medical equipment to 南迴診所, helping provide medical services to remote communities in eastern Taiwan.
蔣萬安 draws criticism for testing meal saltiness at 金華國中; city government says he was invited to try it
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an drew criticism after visiting 金華國中 to inspect school lunches and measure their salt levels. The Education Department said this was a hands-on activity following a demonstration by school staff and parent volunteers, intended to use everyday testing tools such as electronic salinity meters to gather objective long-term data and strengthen food safety management.
Facts
Original中央社記者 楊淑閔 台北30日電
The related procedures have been in place for nearly 10 years
大同 rolls out AI data center solution, completes computing rack installation in 180 days
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
大同 launched its TTG AIDC CUBE AI data center solution, pledging to complete rack installation in 180 days and saying it has received orders and is in talks with potential customers. The economics minister said Taiwan will add 25 natural gas-fired units over the next 10 years to meet AI power demand.
Facts
Rack installation services spanning the power grid to computing capacity can be provided in just 180 days
25 large natural gas-fired units will gradually come online in Taiwan
4 units will come online this year
A total of 5.2GW
About 10% of Taiwan’s annual power generation
Another 21 units are expected to come online
The 25 units will have a total installed capacity of 26GW
New gas-fired units and additional renewable energy units are projected for 2035
Together, they can add 200 billion kilowatt-hours
It can also provide construction services for power plants under 20MW for companies’ own use
Schlittler’s 10 strikeouts hold down 紅襪 as 洋基 win Wild Card Series opener 9-0
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In the MLB Wild Card Series, New York 洋基 defeated Boston 紅襪 9-0 to take the opening game. Schlittler struck out 10 to shut down the opposition, while Rice hit a grand slam and drove in 6 runs.
Facts
洋基 rout 紅襪 9-0
Drove in 6 runs in the game
Schlittler leads the American League this season with a 1.95 ERA
Day after wife of 70 years dies, former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir hospitalized
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir, 101, was hospitalized for observation on the 30th after not getting enough rest following the death of his wife, Siti Hasmah. His condition is stable.
Facts
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir, 101
His wife of 70 years
After his wife, Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, died on the 28th
Aged 100
The couple had 7 children
He first served as Malaysia’s 4th prime minister from 1981 to 2003
Then, from 2018 to 2020
He became prime minister for a 2nd time at the age of 92
Taipei stocks opened higher and climbed throughout the day, closing up 308.17 points at 47940.13 points, a gain of 0.65%. Trading value reached NT$875.672 billion.
Taiwan stocks pare gains late, finish up 308 points; 48000-point mark slips away
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan stocks pared their gains late, finishing up 308.17 points at 47940.13 points, after briefly reclaiming and then losing the 48000-point mark. Trading value reached NT$875.6 billion.
Two Hong Kong residents arrested by the National Security Department on suspicion of spreading seditious messages
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hong Kong police national security officers arrested 2 people, accusing them of spreading seditious messages outside Prince Edward MTR station on Aug. 31. The operation is related to a case in which 3 people had previously been arrested.
Toyota Crown loses out! This was Taiwan’s top-selling imported sedan in August: Owners praise its fuel efficiency, easy handling and spacious interior, saying it offers great value for money.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
According to statistics from Ucar, the Toyota Camry topped Taiwan’s imported sedan sales in August 2026 with 369 units sold, followed by the Mazda Mazda3 and Suzuki Swift in second and third place. Owners generally gave it positive reviews, praising its fuel efficiency, spacious interior and great value for money.
Facts
The Toyota Camry was the top-selling imported sedan in August 2026, with 369 units sold.
The Mazda Mazda3 ranked second in imported sedan sales in August 2026, with 335 units sold.
The Suzuki Swift ranked third in imported sedan sales in August 2026, with 240 units sold.
Owners say the Mazda Mazda3 has a smooth powertrain and a steering wheel that feels good in the hands, making it one of the best choices in the million-dollar price segment.
Why did OK超商 suddenly change its logo? It spent 450 million to renovate more than 200 stores, with 1 key idea behind the move: getting you to make a special trip.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
三商家購 acquired OK超商 and reorganized its retail assets, investing 450 million to renovate stores and strengthen its competitiveness in community retail.
Facts
三商家購 announced on Jan. 23, 2026, that it would acquire 100% of 來來超商’s shares for 125 million in cash.
三商家購 plans to invest about 450 million to renovate more than 200 OK stores.
美廉社’s assets will be transferred to 富達零售 through a company split.
OK超商’s new logo design has sparked online discussion, with some people saying it looks like a fish or shaved ice.
As of the end of July 2026, 全家便利商店 had 4,513 stores.
三商家購 plans to change its name to 「眾聯投資控股」, while keeping its stock code at 2945.
OK超商 currently has about 370 stores, and is also developing smart retail formats such as OKmini.
Taiwan’s population fell by more than 100,000 from last year. Why is Taoyuan still growing? Population changes across 13 districts over 5 years revealed: Guishan gained more than 23,000 people.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan’s population fell by more than 100,000 in August 2026, while Taoyuan City alone bucked the trend, gaining 5,915 people. Social increase offset natural decrease. Population growth over the past 5 years was concentrated in Guishan, Taoyuan and Zhongli districts, with Guishan recording the largest increase due to industrial development.
Facts
As of the end of August 2026, Taiwan’s registered population was 23,224,721, down 103,622 from the same period last year.
Taoyuan City’s population was 2,357,912 at the end of August 2026, up 5,915 from the same period last year, an annual growth rate of 0.25%.
From September 2025 to August 2026, Taoyuan City had a natural decrease of 4,286 people, but a social increase of 10,201.
Guishan District’s population rose by 23,824 from August 2021 to August 2026, a 14.35% increase, the highest among the 13 districts.
Iran war still raging, but US military cuts come first? Hegseth accelerates downsizing, plans to eliminate 20% of general officer positions.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
US Defense Secretary Hegseth plans to cut general officer positions by 20%, far exceeding the previous 10% target. He will announce the decision at a Marine Corps base in Virginia. The move comes alongside strict reviews of military discipline and fitness, prompting concerns from a former Army secretary about a looming talent gap.
Facts
US Defense Secretary Hegseth is expected to announce that the Pentagon will cut 20% of general officer positions.
The planned cuts are twice the 10% reduction Hegseth set in 2025.
The US military currently has 841 active-duty generals and admirals.
Former Army Secretary Driscoll warned that Hegseth’s purge would leave too few candidates for senior command positions.
In 2025, Hegseth called on the military to no longer allow obese generals or men with beards.
Several senior officers, including Generals George and Brown and Adm. Franchetti, have been dismissed or sidelined.
No dodging military service! Strictest-ever 「physical classification standards」 take effect at the end of October: only those with BMI >45 or height ≤144 are exempt.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Ministry of National Defense announced stricter military service medical examination standards to address celebrities dodging service. The new rules are slated to take effect at the end of October, significantly raising the threshold for exemption and revising discharge examination standards to narrow the scope for exemptions.
Facts
The Ministry of National Defense’s Medical Affairs Bureau plans to issue and implement the physical classification and discharge standards at the end of October.
Going forward, only those with a BMI greater than 45 or a height of 144 centimeters or less will be exempt from service.
Alternative service classifications are proposed to be divided into grades A and B.
Reserve officers and reserve noncommissioned officers performing compulsory service will be covered by the medical discharge examination standards for active-duty enlisted personnel.
The high blood pressure discharge examination will require hospitalization for 1 to 3 days to undergo continuous blood pressure monitoring for 24 hours.
Skip 50 Lan and 得正 for bubble tea! A foodie has switched to this 1 shop for its 「real ingredients and refreshing, not-too-sweet taste」, drinking it for 3 days straight: repurchased more than 20 times.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
「兩顆紅蘋」, a new drink from 金茶伍手作飲品 at New Taipei’s Lehua Night Market, launched in July 2026. Made with 2 freshly pressed apples and priced affordably, it sparked heated discussion and strong repeat purchases on Threads. It is currently sold only at the Lehua store.
Facts
金茶伍手作飲品’s new 「兩顆紅蘋」 drink costs 79 per cup.
「兩顆紅蘋」 is made with 2 freshly pressed Fuji apples and the signature 「山韻茶王」 tea.
「兩顆紅蘋」 launched in July 2026.
「兩顆紅蘋」 is currently sold only at the Lehua store in Yonghe, New Taipei.
Sanchong gets another multipurpose public facility: Rose Multi-Level Parking Garage opens, combining parking, public safety and community life.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih presided over the opening ceremony of the Sanchong Rose Multi-Level Parking Garage on the 30th. The multipurpose public facility integrates parking, civic activities and public safety, aiming to improve urban land use and quality of life.
Facts
The Sanchong Rose Multi-Level Parking Garage cost about 1.06 billion in total.
The parking garage provides 458 car spaces and 70 motorcycle spaces.
A civic activity center with capacity for about 200 people is located on the first floor of the parking garage.
The parking garage features electric vehicle charging stations, license plate recognition and a smart vehicle-finding system.
Short-term parking costs 40 per hour.
The all-day monthly pass costs 4,000, while the residents’ monthly pass costs 3,200.
The project was built by the Public Works Department’s New Construction Office and is a combined parking garage building with 1 basement level and 8 above-ground floors.
南亞 hits a record high of 265. Can it climb further? 瑞銀 names 「this business」 as an asset whose value is not yet reflected, updates its price target: more upside ahead.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
瑞銀’s latest report upgraded 南亞 (1303) to 「Buy」 and raised its price target to 300, with an optimistic scenario of 400, saying the share price has yet to reflect the growth potential of its CCL business. The news sent 南亞 soaring to a record intraday high of 265 today (the 30th); it closed at 255.5, up 3.44%.
Facts
瑞銀 upgraded 南亞 to 「Buy」 and raised its price target to 300, with an optimistic scenario of 400.
瑞銀 forecasts 南亞’s EPS at NT$13.71 this year, rising further to NT$20.02 next year.
瑞銀 forecasts 南亞’s CCL unit selling prices to rise 90% and 85% year over year this year and next year, respectively.
瑞銀 forecasts 南亞’s CCL operating margin to rise from 4.1% in 2025 to 23% this year and 30% next year.
瑞銀 forecasts electronic materials to account for 59% of 南亞’s revenue this year and 69% next year, up from 46% in 2025.
瑞銀 forecasts CCL’s share of 南亞’s electronic materials revenue to rise from 24% in 2025 to 31% this year and 43% next year.
南亞 owns about 61% of 南電. 南亞’s share price has risen about 3 times since the start of this year, while 南電’s gain over the same period has exceeded 4 times.
南亞 hit an intraday high of NT$265 today (the 30th) and closed at NT$255.5, up 3.44%, with trading volume topping 120,000 lots.
Take care when visiting Xinyi District! 1 measure takes effect today; violators face fines of up to NT$10,000
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Taipei City Department of Health opened 2 pressure-controlled smoking rooms donated by private organizations in the Xinyi shopping district on Nov. 30. It also announced a full smoking ban starting in November around Taipei City Hall Station, with violators facing fines of up to NT$10,000, as part of its efforts to promote a smoke-free city.
Facts
The Taipei City Department of Health opened 2 pressure-controlled smoking rooms in the Xinyi shopping district on Nov. 30.
Smoking has been prohibited since November in all areas around Exits 2 and 3 of Taipei City Hall Station, except designated smoking areas.
Anyone smoking outside a designated smoking area will be fined between NT$2,000 and NT$10,000 under the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act.
The private groups that donated the pressure-controlled smoking rooms included 台北華山扶輪社 and 4 other organizations.
The Taipei City Government provides a free smoking cessation hotline, 0800-636363, for public inquiries.
Can people ride in a car trunk? 5 students take a taxi, with 2 squeezed into the trunk; driver could face a fine of up to NT$18,000
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
An incident in Taoyuan involved 5 students riding in a taxi, with 2 illegally sitting in the trunk. Citing the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act, police said the act constituted carrying passengers outside the passenger compartment and the driver could face a fine of up to NT$18,000. They reminded the public to make sure they sit in a legally permitted location.
Facts
A few days ago, 5 students boarded a six-seat taxi at Puxin Station in Yangmei, Taoyuan. 2 of them squeezed into the trunk and climbed out from the rear of the car when they arrived.
Police said carrying passengers in a trunk violates Article 30, Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 6 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act, which prohibits carrying passengers outside the passenger compartment. Drivers may be fined between NT$3,000 and NT$18,000.
Under the current Article 77 of the Road Traffic Safety Regulations, vehicles must comply with the rules that passengers may not be carried outside the passenger compartment and that no one may ride on cargo in the trunk.
If carrying passengers outside the passenger compartment results in injury to another person, the driver's license may be suspended for 1 year. If it causes serious injury or death, the driver's license may be revoked.
The driver involved said the students did not want to pull up the seats and asked to sit in the trunk.
You don't need cheese or butter for scrambled eggs! A chef shares 1 trick for a fluffy, silky texture and rich flavor that tastes better than brunch spots
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Professional chef Serrano-Bachri of the 美國蛋品委員會 shared the secret to improving scrambled eggs with powdered milk, saying it adds richness and smoothness. She also provided the correct amount and method.
Facts
Simply add an appropriate amount of powdered milk while beating the eggs to create an unexpectedly rich flavor and silky texture.
The standard amount is 1 to 2 teaspoons of whole milk powder for 2 large eggs.
To prevent clumping, first mix the powdered milk with about 1 tablespoon of water to make a paste, then add it to the eggs and mix well.
Sweet potato leaves lower blood sugar and fight cancer! But a doctor says this 1 cooking method makes them worthless, stripping away all their nutrients—and many people get it wrong
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital physician 錢政弘 recommends steaming sweet potato leaves for 3 minutes to preserve nutrients such as polyphenols and avoid losses from boiling. Sweet potato leaves may help lower blood sugar, protect the liver and stimulate GLP-1 secretion, and must be cooked before eating.
Facts
Sweet potato leaves are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A and K, and polyphenols.
Sweet potato leaves contain more polyphenols than green tea.
Polyphenols in sweet potato leaves may be associated with blood sugar regulation, improved blood lipids and effects on liver inflammation.
Sweet potato leaves can stimulate the intestines to secrete the incretin GLP-1.
Blanching sweet potato leaves in boiling water causes substantial losses of polyphenols and other plant compounds.
The recommendation is to put sweet potato leaves in a pot and steam them for 3 minutes.
Sweet potato leaves must be cooked before eating and should not be eaten raw.
From Farmland to the Sky: Chang Chia-chun Proposes Drone Policy to Build a Low-Altitude Technology Industry Corridor in Yunlin
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Yunlin County mayoral candidate Chang Chia-chun has proposed a low-altitude drone technology industry policy that combines local agricultural sites with university resources. The plan aims to build an industry corridor in three stages through four strategies: testing, competitions, industry recruitment and applications.
Facts
Yunlin County mayoral candidate Chang Chia-chun unveiled a Drone Low-Altitude Technology Industry Development Policy on the 30th.
The policy centers on four pillars: using testing to drive industry, competitions to attract talent, industry to retain talent, and applications to create value.
張政雄, chairman of the 社團法人台灣福爾摩沙無人飛行器協會, attended the news conference and said Taiwan lacked adequate professional sites.
The policy calls for identifying suitable land, airspace and related facilities in the county to establish drone testing, training and licensing bases.
The drone industry supply chain will focus on areas including AI flight controls, communications, optoelectronics, motors, batteries, composite materials and components.
The policy will be rolled out in three stages: “Come fly in Yunlin,” “Come compete in Yunlin” and “Come start a business in Yunlin.”
Yunlin has extensive farmland, water infrastructure, coastal areas and plains that can serve as a foundation for drone testing and applications.
Ten years after Brexit, does Britain regret it? Prime minister confirms a reassessment of the possibility of rejoining the EU
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
New British Prime Minister 柏南 confirmed that the possibility of rejoining the EU would be reassessed, saying the current Brexit deal does more harm than good. 柏南 plans to use the UK-EU summit to discuss various options for cooperation, a policy shift that has drawn strong opposition from the Conservative Party.
Facts
In an interview with the BBC, current British Prime Minister 柏南 said clearly that the current Brexit deal does more harm than good for London.
柏南 believes rejoining the EU is one option, but that now may not be the best time.
柏南 pledged to use this year's UK-EU summit to discuss building a closer partnership with the EU.
The opposition Conservative Party accused 柏南 of trying to reignite the Brexit debate and criticized the attempt to bring Britain back into the EU framework through the back door.
柏南 had promised voters during the Makerfield by-election that 柏南 would never repeat the Brexit debate.
Trump wants to spend South Korea's strategic investment fund on Alaska; Japan moves to reserve capacity as the oil and gas project barely gets off the ground
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Trump administration plans to invest US$5.4 billion from South Korea's strategic investment fund in an Alaska LNG development project in exchange for trade and economic concessions and to shore up electoral support. JERA and 東京瓦斯 have already reserved some of the capacity, signaling strong market demand.
Facts
U.S. President Trump could announce as early as Sept. 30 Eastern time that South Korea's strategic investment fund will be used for an Alaska liquefied natural gas development project worth about US$5.4 billion.
South Korea's strategic investment fund is a national investment vehicle established under the leadership of the South Korean government, combining private- and public-sector capital.
Japan's 2 largest liquefied natural gas importers, JERA and 東京瓦斯, previously signed a preliminary agreement to jointly purchase up to 2 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas annually if the facility is built.
Original阿拉斯加液化天然氣開發案的開發商格倫法恩已爭取到每年1300萬公噸的產量購買承諾。
To raise the massive funding needed for subsequent development, the developer still needs to finalize agreements for an additional 3 million metric tons and turn the commitments into legally binding contracts.
Tofu Village and 起家雞 lose out! This is Taiwan's hottest Korean restaurant chain: diners praise its generous portions and unlimited side dishes, saying, “We ordered so much the table was full.”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Online buzz data from late August to late September 2026 show 起家雞 taking the top spot among Korean restaurant chains with 690 mentions, while Tofu Village ranked fourth. 北村豆腐家 opened a new Taichung location and introduced promotions, while bb.q CHICKEN received the highest proportion of positive reviews.
Facts
The discussion volume for this ranking's winner was about 4 times that of the runner-up.
北村豆腐家 opened its Taichung JMall location on September 2, 2026.
bb.q CHICKEN had a positive sentiment rate of 86% this period, the highest among the top ten.
Kyochon Chicken began a collaboration with Crayon Shin-chan on September 5.
打爆豬 Korean BBQ Buffet ranked tenth this period with 129 mentions.
全家國際餐飲 operates brands including 大戶屋 and bb.q CHICKEN, with a total of 77 locations across Taiwan.
A famous Taiwan attraction has fallen into decline! Visitors lament its emptiness: “Boring, overpriced, and barely any crowds—it's become a ghost town.” They say they don't want to visit again.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
妖怪村 in Lugu, Nantou, has drawn negative reviews on social media after visitors complained of sparse crowds, limited attractions, and high prices, calling it a one-time destination. The park is open all day with free admission, but shops have limited business hours. Its specialty products include stinging nettle bread.
Facts
妖怪村 in Lugu, Nantou, has recently been quiet, prompting online discussion about the attraction's decline.
Visitors criticized 妖怪村 for its limited attractions, describing it as a one-time destination that can be toured in 3 minutes.
Visitors complained that prices at the park are too high; a toy car costs 440 yuan, far more than at other retailers.
妖怪村 was established in 2009 beside the Xitou Nature Education Area. Admission is free, and it is open 24 hours a day.
Most businesses in the 妖怪村 commercial district are open from 10 or 11 a.m. until 7 or 8 p.m.
Leofoo Village and 九族 aren't No. 1! Taiwan's most talked-about theme parks TOP10: the winner is a water-and-land park where you can enjoy everything in one visit, with abundant family facilities.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
《網路溫度計DailyView》 has released its ranking of online buzz for Taiwan's theme parks from late August to late September 2026. 麗寶樂園 topped the list with 8,981 mentions, while 遠雄海洋公園 and 六福村 ranked second and third, respectively.
Facts
From August 31 to September 29, 2026, 麗寶樂園 topped Taiwan's theme park online buzz rankings with 8,981 mentions.
遠雄海洋公園 ranked No. 2 with 6,911 mentions, while 六福村主題遊樂園 placed third with 5,571.
義大遊樂世界 ranked No. 4 with 5,328 mentions, while 九族文化村 ranked No. 5 with 5,092.
劍湖山世界主題樂園 ranked No. 6 with 4,134 mentions, while 九九峰動物樂園 ranked No. 7 with 1,730.
杉林溪森林生態渡假園區 ranked No. 8 with 1,435 mentions, while 東勢林場遊樂區 ranked No. 9 with 1,392.
西湖渡假村 ranked No. 10 with 1,371 mentions. Located in Sanyi, Miaoli, it combines natural scenery with recreational facilities.
六福村 began as 六福村野生動物公園, established in 1979. It now features several themed areas while retaining its wildlife park attractions.
九族文化村, located in Yuchi Township, Nantou, combines displays of Indigenous cultures, amusement rides, and natural scenery, and features a European garden.
Are airports open 24 hours a day? 2 Taiwan airports “clear out passengers and lock their doors at midnight,” leaving travelers who arrive too early or too late locked out.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explains the operating hours of Taiwan's 4 major airports, noting that only Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is open 24 hours a day. Other airports, including Songshan, Xiaogang, and Qingquangang, clear out passengers late at night because of curfews. Travelers taking red-eye flights are advised to check opening hours and check-in times to avoid being locked out.
Facts
Both Terminals 1 and 2 at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport are open 24 hours a day, year-round.
Original台北松山機場實施夜間宵禁管制，時間為每日23:00至隔日清晨06:00。
Original台北松山機場航廈大廳約於深夜23:00至23:30全面熄燈閉館並進行清場鎖門。
Original高雄小港機場的夜間宵禁通常為24:00至隔日清晨06:30。
Airline ground staff check-in counters usually open only 2.5 to 3 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Taichung Ching Chuan Kang Airport, a joint-use military and civilian airport, does not remain open 24 hours a day for passengers to stay overnight.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare is giving out money! Starting tomorrow, 10/1, “each person can receive up to 13150 yuan” to spend at PX Mart, convenience stores, hospitals, and more. See the 5 steps and application methods for Health Coins.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Ministry of Health and Welfare is introducing a Health Coin program to encourage preventive care. Points start accumulating on October 1, with redemption opening in December.
Facts
The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced that its “Health Coin” points reward program will officially launch on October 1, 2026.
Health Coins are registered to individuals and cannot be exchanged for cash or transferred. The minimum redemption threshold is 1000 coins (1 coin is worth 1 yuan).
The program is open to people aged 18 and older who are eligible for National Health Insurance, including foreign nationals.
The first phase is expected to open in December, allowing points to be redeemed at 5 types of outlets: convenience stores, pharmacies, medical institutions, sports venues, and life insurance providers.
Each person can accumulate up to 1萬3150 coins over 2 years. People aged 65 and older can earn about 8350 to 1萬3150 coins.
If you get a traffic violation ticket after being reported, can you find out who reported you? Here's how police handle the reporter's personal information.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explains the legal rules for public reports of traffic violations. Reports must be made under the reporter's name, but their personal information is protected. The person reported cannot learn the reporter's identity, but may apply under the law to view the evidence footage and clarify the facts of the violation.
Facts
People reporting traffic violations must provide their name, national ID number, address, and contact information; reports cannot be anonymous.
Police agencies handling public reports of Road Traffic Management Penalties Act violations must not disclose the reporter's personal information.
Anonymous reports, or reports for which the responsible agency cannot confirm the reporter's identity, should not result in a citation.
On April 14, 2025, the Ministry of Justice issued an interpretation setting out the rules for applying to view “evidence footage” related to reported traffic violations.
Under Article 46 of the Administrative Procedure Act, a party may apply to an administrative agency to inspect, transcribe, copy, or photograph relevant documents or case files.
Baseball and temples take to the runway! Tainan International Fashion Industry Exhibition opens in October with a cross-cultural Taiwan-Japan-Korea show, “Tainan Style.”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The “2026 Tainan International Fashion Industry Exhibition” is set to take place on October 7 at the Greater Tainan Convention and Exhibition Center. Bringing together resources from Taiwan, Japan, and Korea, it draws design inspiration from local products and culture to foster cross-industry development.
Facts
The “2026 Tainan International Fashion Industry Exhibition” will open on October 7 at the Greater Tainan Convention and Exhibition Center.
This year's exhibition is themed “The More Local, the More Fashionable,” bringing together brands and designers from Taiwan, Japan, and Korea.
麻豆文旦 pomelos, Qigu sea salt, and Guantian water caltrops have been transformed into lifestyle products such as fragrance goods.
South Korean cheerleader Nam Min-jeong will take part in the fashion show at the exhibition.
Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che said he hopes design can help traditional industries find new market positions.
The exhibition has invited specialty brands from Tokyo, Tokushima, and Kumamoto in Japan.
《早春晴朗》 and 《挑情醜聞》 lose out! Netflix Taiwan's latest viewing rankings are out, and the surprise winner is this Taiwanese drama.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Netflix has released its latest September viewing rankings. 《麥塊電影》 topped the Taiwan movie chart, while 《黑白清道夫》 led the TV series chart. The article also lists movies and shows arriving and leaving in October.
Facts
Netflix regularly releases its global top 10 viewing rankings every Tuesday.
《麥塊電影》 topped Netflix Taiwan's latest movie viewing rankings for September.
Netflix Taiwan’s latest series viewership rankings for September are topped by 《Black and White Cleaners》.
The top non-English film this week, 《Fury》, logged 8.1 million hours viewed.
The top English-language film this week, 《The College Bombmaker》, logged 27.4 million hours viewed.
The top non-English series this week, 《Strangers》, logged 65.7 million hours viewed.
The top English-language series this week, 《Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story》, logged 95.9 million hours viewed.
Which school will make it easiest to find a job in 2026? These 2 private universities made the top 10, while National Taiwan University led by a wide margin
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
According to statistics compiled by 《網路溫度計 DailyView》 from late August to late September 2026, National Taiwan University took the top spot in online buzz about “career prospects,” with 2,512 mentions. National Chengchi University and National Tsing Hua University ranked second and third, while private universities such as Feng Chia and Tamkang also made the top 10. The ranking reflects online discussion only, not actual employment indicators.
Facts
National Taiwan University ranked first in online buzz about “career prospects,” with 2,512 mentions.
National Chengchi University ranked second, with 787 mentions online.
National Tsing Hua University ranked third, with 688 mentions online.
The ranking reflects online attention only, not graduates’ employment rates or salaries.
Feng Chia University and Tamkang University were the 2 private universities to make the top 10.
Taichung’s busiest area wasn’t always the 7th Redevelopment Zone! The area in front of the train station was once the commercial center. Why did the “city within a city” gradually decline?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines how Taichung’s commercial core shifted west from the old city in Central District to the 7th Redevelopment Zone, and notes that urban expansion, changing consumer habits and administrative planning contributed to the old city’s decline. It is now being transformed into a cultural tourism district through the City Within a City revitalization plan.
Facts
Taichung’s Central District covers only about 0.8803 square kilometers, yet for a long time it served as the city’s commercial and urban development core.
During the Japanese colonial period, the first Taichung railway station opened in 1905. After the entire Western Trunk Line opened in 1908, the area became the city’s transportation hub.
Original戰後至民國70年代，中區長期為重要中心商業區，自由路一帶曾有財神百貨、永琦百貨等。
Between 2000 and 2010, the resident population of Central District fell by 48.9%, indicating a significant population decline.
Between 2010 and 2020, the resident population of Central District increased by 1萬零1, a rise of 100.5%.
Did the Xi-Trump meeting produce no Taiwan deal? Expert reveals a “more dangerous dynamic” behind U.S.-China ties: Taiwan reduced to a bargaining chip
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Although the September 2026 Xi-Trump meeting produced no new agreement on Taiwan, scholar Grano says the risk of Taiwan becoming a bargaining chip has grown. Polls show nearly half of Taiwan’s residents have lost confidence in U.S. military assistance, while Beijing increasingly treats U.S. policy on Taiwan as a prerequisite for stable U.S.-China relations.
Facts
Chinese President Xi Jinping met U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on September 24, 2026.
Grano, a scholar at the University of Zurich in Switzerland, believes Taiwan’s position in the management of U.S.-China relations has changed significantly.
Trump described the upcoming $14 billion arms sale as a very good bargaining chip.
A poll found that 47% of Taiwanese respondents lacked confidence that the United States would continue providing military assistance.
In its summary of the talks, Beijing urged Trump to oppose Taiwan independence and handle the Taiwan issue cautiously.
Beijing believes the way the United States handles the Taiwan issue is a prerequisite for stable U.S.-China relations.
The People’s Liberation Army remained active in waters around Taiwan during the Xi-Trump meeting.
Grano said Trump’s willingness to discuss arms sales directly with Xi broke with longstanding U.S. practice.
Was 《The Story of Yanxi Palace》 just about concubines vying for favor? In Qing-era Beijing, audiences also flocked to see male dan performers—what were powerful patrons getting out of lavishing money on male companions?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines the “male dan” performers and “male companion culture” that flourished in Qing-era Beijing. It notes that after Anhui troupes arrived in the capital in the late Qianlong period, male actors playing female roles took part in social activities such as banquet entertainment and visits to “male companion halls.” Literati judged their looks and bearing in “flower registers,” creating an urban entertainment scene that blended performance and consumption.
Facts
In 乾隆五十五年 (1790), the Sanqing troupe, led by Gao Langting, came to Beijing to perform. The Sixi, Chuntai and Hechun troupes followed, forming the “Four Great Anhui Troupes.”
Books devoted to appraising male performers appeared in Qing-era Beijing and were known as “flower registers.” They included 《燕蘭小譜》, 《日下看花記》 and 《聽春新詠》.
《品花寶鑑》, written by Qing-era author Chen Sen, depicts the social, emotional and entertainment lives shared by literati and male dan performers, and is an important source for research on Qing-era theatrical culture.
Research associated with the Taipei National University of the Arts notes that so-called “male companion halls,” also known as “private residences” or “lodgings,” emerged in Qing-era Beijing.
In the middle and late Qing period, some popular young actors playing female roles not only performed on stage but also entertained at banquets and served drinks, meeting audiences’ desire to admire performers and socialize with them.
Which instant coffee at PX Mart tastes best? Insiders rave about 1 brand’s “rich aroma and smooth, full-bodied taste without being cloying”: buy 1, get 1 free for a bargain
NT$36,000 gone! New technology-based traffic enforcement takes effect tomorrow, 10/1: violators in 1 county or city will be ticketed instantly, and many drivers still don’t know
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Taipei City Police Department announced that technology-based traffic enforcement at the intersection of Heping West Road and Chongqing South Road in Zhongzheng District will officially begin on October 1, 2026, targeting violations such as running red lights and failing to yield to pedestrians.
Facts
Multifunctional technology-based traffic enforcement equipment at the intersection of Heping West Road and Chongqing South Road in Taipei’s Zhongzheng District officially began operating on October 1, 2026.
During the test and public-awareness period from July 1 to September 30, 2026, the intersection’s enforcement system issued 447 violation warning notices.
The fine for a small vehicle running a red light is NT$2,700, rising to a maximum of NT$4,000 if unpaid by the deadline.
A vehicle that fails to yield to a pedestrian and causes minor injuries faces a fine of NT$18,000 to NT$30,000 and a driver’s license suspension of 1 to 2 years.
Why is Cilan being criticized? Giving Tang Qiyang the middle finger sparked controversy, but astrology isn’t the only thing people are really unhappy about
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Million-follower YouTuber Cilan sparked controversy after questioning astrology expert Tang Qiyang during a livestream and making an obscene gesture. Online commenters criticized his overly aggressive way of expressing himself. The incident follows a recent pattern in which Cilan has challenged topics related to spirituality and popular culture, only to face public backlash over his attitude.
Facts
Cilan presented slides that he said analyzed more than 4萬 samples, questioning whether astrology has any significant link to personality traits.
A study published in the journal Nature in 1985 found that astrologers’ descriptions of participants’ personalities based on birth charts were no better than chance.
A large study published in Personality and Individual Differences in 2006 analyzed data from more than 1.5萬 people and found no substantial relationship between birth dates and personality or intelligence.
Tang Qiyang’s agent told the media that they would not comment on the controversy.
Cilan recently drew attention after questioning the technology behind influencer Jolie Jiuli’s “life aura portrait photography” equipment.
A person who claimed to have helped Anand come to Taiwan posted on Dcard to refute Ceylan’s claims about the costs and arrangements for Anand’s visit.
After-hours news》It’s not financial stocks! Funds are shifting dramatically across the Taiwan stock market, with these three sectors attracting the most money today
Never store white rice at room temperature! Japanese chef shares 1 simple tip for “keeping it fresh and bug-free”—it won’t spoil or lose its flavor even after months
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japanese chef Papu-chan revealed improper ways to store white rice, noting that the ventilation holes in its original packaging can let in pests and mold. He recommended using an airtight container and storing rice in the refrigerator or freezer, while avoiding certain damp, hot locations.
Facts
Unopened white rice can be stored for 6 months to 1 year, while opened rice should be eaten within 3 months.
Some rice bags have ventilation holes to prevent them from bursting during transport, but the holes can let in air and moisture, causing pests and mold.
Taiwan’s Council of Agriculture recommends freezing rice after bringing it home for 1 to 2 days to kill insect eggs.
White rice should not be stored in the cabinet under the kitchen sink, next to the refrigerator, in underfloor storage, near the entryway or in a cupboard.
If rice becomes infested with bugs, do not leave it in the sun, as the grains may lose moisture and become brittle, affecting their texture.