Plague suspected in Russia; Cho Jung-tai says authorities are closely monitoring the local outbreak
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Plague is suspected in Russia. Premier Cho Jung-tai said the government is highly concerned and has asked the Ministry of Health and Welfare to closely monitor the local outbreak and step up surveillance. In response to rumors concerning China, he also ordered comprehensive checks on traffic through the mini-three-links routes.
Energy shock from US-Iran conflict could force low-income countries to cut spending or restructure debt: IMF
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The IMF warned that low-income developing countries could be forced to cut spending or restructure debt because of the energy shock caused by the US-Iran conflict.
A look inside Selangor’s women’s soccer training base: Chen Tzu-chen’s refusal to give up helped her land an overseas career
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese women’s soccer player Chen Tzu-chen moved to Malaysia to play for 雪蘭莪足球俱樂部. Through independent strength training and her refusal to give up, she is striving to help the team secure a place in the AFC Women’s Champions League.
Facts
She is the only Taiwanese player among the 4 foreign recruits
Japanese media: Anthropic plans to build its first data center in Japan in Osaka
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese media reported that Japan’s NTT and its subsidiary NTT DATA集團 are in talks with US AI company Anthropic to build the company’s first data center in Japan in the coastal area of southern Osaka Prefecture. Construction costs could reach 1 trillion yen, with capacity of up to 5MW. A contract is expected to be signed in fiscal 2026, with partial operations slated to begin in 2028.
Facts
Construction costs could reach 1 trillion yen
The center’s capacity could reach up to 5MW
A contract is planned for fiscal 2026
The site is expected to begin partial operations in 2028
The goal is for the public and private sectors to invest a combined 32.7 trillion yen by fiscal 2035
Judge convicted of drunk driving, then drunk driving again after becoming judicial affairs officer; 懲戒法院 suspends him for 1 year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former 宜蘭地院 judge Chang Hsuan-hao was dismissed over drunk driving and reassigned as a judicial affairs officer. He again drove drunk in February this year and injured a pedestrian. 懲戒法院 ruled that he be suspended from duty for 1 year.
Former employee accused of soliciting kickbacks from suppliers; 台泥綠能 seeks civil damages of more than 72 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A former employee of 台泥綠能 is accused of soliciting kickbacks from suppliers. Prosecutors concluded their investigation and indicted 3 people. 台泥綠能 announced it will seek civil damages from the defendants and suppliers involved, with the initial claim exceeding NT$72 million.
Facts
The total exceeds NT$72 million
The initial claim includes at least NT$29.9 million
US$1.34 million
Solicited NT$15 million
Paid in 3 installments totaling NT$5 million
Kickbacks in the Yizhu project totaled NT$29.9 million
Finance Ministry to impose provisional anti-dumping duties on Chinese-made polyamide film starting 10/19
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
財政部關務署 announced that provisional anti-dumping duties will be imposed for 4 months starting 10/19 on certain polyamide film imported from China. The rate for 3 companies under 運城集團 is 0%, while the rate for all other manufacturers and exporters is 40.21%.
China’s Vice Minister of Transport Wang Gang named Shijiazhuang Communist Party chief
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s Vice Minister of Transport Wang Gang was appointed to the Hebei Provincial Standing Committee and named Communist Party chief of Shijiazhuang, replacing Zhang Chaochao, who is no longer in the post.
Facts
Wang Gang is 55 this year
Began working at the Heilongjiang Provincial Department of Transportation in 2004
In July 2011, he became director of the Heilongjiang Provincial Highway Administration
In December 2015, Wang Gang became vice mayor of Heihe
Became Communist Party secretary of Heihe University in May 2018
Transferred to serve as acting mayor of Qiqihar in April 2021
He became Communist Party chief of Qiqihar in December 2021
In January 2023, Wang Gang was elected vice governor of Heilongjiang Province
Former Chinese Academy of Engineering academician and 中南大學 president Zhang Yaoxue indicted on bribery charges
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former Chinese Academy of Engineering academician and 中南大學 president Zhang Yaoxue was indicted on bribery charges by 安徽省安慶市檢察院. 南華大學 and 中南大學 have recently seen successive investigations into corruption involving their presidents and vice presidents.
Yilan’s Dongshan Township candidate for Dajin village chief accused of vote-buying with rice; released on NT$50,000 bail
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A candidate surnamed Chen for village chief in Dajin Village, Dongshan Township, Yilan County, is suspected of disguising vote-buying as the distribution of Penglai rice and other supplies. The Yilan District Prosecutors Office searched locations and questioned 9 people, ordering Chen released on NT$50,000 bail.
Fire at a sheet-metal building in Kaohsiung spreads to 3 buildings; 1 man burned, 1 commercial vehicle destroyed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A fire broke out early today at a sheet-metal building on Chenggong 1st Road in Kaohsiung’s Qianjin District, spreading to 3 buildings and several cars and motorcycles. A 66-year-old man surnamed Chen suffered burns over 18% of his body and was hospitalized with no danger to his life. A commercial passenger car was destroyed.
He Lifeng meets vice chairman of 美中關係全國委員會, hopes to inject stability into economic ties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
He Lifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Chinese Communist Party Central Committee and vice premier of the State Council, met with 美中關係全國委員會 Vice Chairman Greenberg in Beijing, hoping to inject certainty and stability into China-U.S. economic and trade cooperation.
U.S. plans to deploy low-cost hypersonic missiles, hoping to deplete China’s air defenses through sheer numbers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. Navy plans to equip carrier-based aircraft with the low-cost hypersonic Blackbeard missile developed by Castelion, aiming to deplete China’s air defenses through sheer numbers. The Pentagon plans to procure more than 12,000 missiles within 5 years, at an estimated unit cost of about US$385,000, far below the US$3.25 million cost of Lockheed Martin’s LRASM. Experts say the move could bolster the U.S. military’s stockpile of long-range precision weapons, but the vulnerability of launch platforms (aircraft carriers) remains a major constraint.
Facts
designed to fly at speeds exceeding Mach 5
procure more than 12,000 Blackbeard missiles
average cost of about US$385,000 per missile
estimated cost of about US$3.25 million per missile
The Navy ordered 50 Blackbeard missiles in June
ordered another 444 in September
demonstrated the capability to carry 2 Blackbeard missiles
carry up to 4 of these missiles
deplete stocks of long-range anti-ship missiles
Companies mentioned：Castelion、洛克希德馬丁公司、Lockheed Martin
Taiwan International Hardware and Tools Expo opens in Taichung on 10/20, with 450 exhibitors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Taiwan International Hardware and Tools Expo X Hardware Industry Show will take place from October 20 to 22 at 台中國際會展中心, with 450 exhibitors and more than 1,000 booths expected to draw tens of thousands of buyers. 台中市政府 has partnered with 39 brands to offer discounts, with business opportunities expected to reach NT$40 million.
Taichung woman found dead in bedroom with head injury, son sleeping in another room; authorities investigate
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 55-year-old woman surnamed Zhou was found dead, lying in a bedroom at her home in Taichung’s Tanzi District with an injury to her head. Her 37-year-old son said he had taken medication and gone to sleep in another room. Police and prosecutors examined the scene to determine the cause of death.
Shen Boyang withdraws from prime-time drama “豆腐媽媽,” citing packed election schedule
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Shen Boyang, the DPP’s Taipei mayoral candidate, said his election schedule was too packed for him to take part in filming the prime-time drama “豆腐媽媽.” He also discussed his views on urban renewal, the relocation of Songshan Airport and drug issues.
Poll gap widens; Su巧慧 says she will work until she leads in KMT polls, while Li Sichuan expresses confidence
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The latest poll in the New Taipei mayoral race showed DPP candidate Su巧慧 leading KMT candidate Li Sichuan, 43.1% to 30.0%. Su said she would work to take the lead in polls conducted by the KMT as well, and responded to controversy over her Tamsui Science City platform. Li said public opinion mattered more than polls and discussed development plans including the New Taipei Dome and railway undergrounding.
335 teams register for Huazong Cup volleyball tournament; elementary school mixed division added amid declining birthrate
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 115th National 47th Huazong Cup Volleyball Championship will be held from the 17th to the 21st in Tainan’s Xuejia District, with 335 teams registered. To address the declining birthrate and schools’ team-formation needs, an “elementary school mixed division” has been added to broaden grassroots participation in volleyball.
Facts
a total of 335 teams taking part
the 115th National 47th Huazong Cup Volleyball Championship
Man shakes uncontrollably while cycling; police find drugs, refer him for prosecution and fine him for drug-impaired driving
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Officers from the Xinzhuang Precinct in New Taipei City spotted a man surnamed Wu shaking as he rode a bicycle on patrol. After stopping him, they found heroin and a positive saliva drug test. Police referred him for prosecution on suspicion of drug offenses and fined him for drug-impaired driving.
Finance Ministry: Agreement reached with 金管會 on TISA tax incentives to encourage saving a first nest egg
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
財政部 and 金管會 have reached a preliminary agreement on tax incentives for TISA, hoping to encourage the public to save their first nest egg. The tax-exempt amount and implementation date remain under discussion.
U.S. plan to livestream execution by firing squad sparks international outcry; House speaker fears it could become a recruiting tool for terrorists
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. military’s plan to livestream the execution of Hassan by firing squad has sparked international outrage. House Speaker Johnson fears the footage could become a recruiting tool for terrorists, while Archbishop Broglio urged Catholics not to participate in the firing squad. Australian officials and the United Nations human rights chief also condemned the plan.
Facts
13 people killed
32 people injured
Since 1945
Hasan is scheduled to be executed at Fort Hood on Dec. 3
Yam peels and mesona leaf powder fetch high prices; Taoyuan agricultural research station develops new processing technologies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
農業部桃園區農業改良場 has made breakthroughs in processing yam and mesona, developing yam peel into a health-functional product and a mesona leaf powder technology to boost value and save energy.
Suspected sales of hacked Japanese B-CAS cards caused more than NT$600 million in infringement; police arrest 4 for prosecution
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Police found that a man surnamed Lin and 4 others had set up a satellite equipment company and allegedly imported and sold hacked Japanese B-CAS cards to illegally access pay-TV channels. The estimated market value of the infringement exceeded NT$600 million, and the case was referred for prosecution.
Facts
Estimated infringement value exceeds NT$600 million
A man surnamed Lin and 4 others
29 hacked B-CAS satellite cards
Hacked cards sold for more than 3 years
Stole satellite signals from 6 domestic and foreign TV companies
Charged with breach of trust and fraudulently obtaining property, Changhua township representatives council chair denies wrongdoing and seeks vindication
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The chair of a Changhua County township representatives council was accused of using an official vehicle to give a friend rides and fraudulently claiming transportation expenses. Changhua prosecutors charged the defendant with breach of trust and fraudulently obtaining property; the defendant denied wrongdoing and sought vindication.
Father of Miaoli township representative candidate detained and barred from visits over alleged cash vote-buying
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
苗栗地檢署 investigated allegations that the father of a township representative candidate surnamed Kang bought votes with cash payments of 1000 to 3000 yuan. Citing substantial evidence of criminal involvement and a risk of flight or collusion, prosecutors sought detention and a ban on visits, which was approved. Another 4 people were ordered to remain at their residences.
台泥 shareholders approve European listing plan; Chang An-ping: Company will retain absolute control
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台泥 shareholders approved a European listing plan for its subsidiary Cimpor International Holdings, with public ownership expected to be no less than 10%. 台泥 will retain absolute control. Chang An-ping said the listing would have no effect on existing shareholders and noted that the company has about NT$148 billion in cash and time deposits.
Facts
No less than 10% of Cimpor International's total share capital
A combined total of about NT$148 billion
About 400 shareholders attended
Companies mentioned：台泥、Cimpor International Holdings、中橡、嘉泥
IMF warns global economic resilience is being tested; energy prices and public debt pressures add to risks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
IMF's latest World Economic Outlook report says AI investment is supporting global growth, but conflict in the Middle East, rising energy and food prices, and public debt pressures are testing economic resilience. It forecasts global inflation rising to 4.7% in 2026 and growth of 3.1%; without mitigating measures, growth would be just 2.5%.
Facts
Global inflation is projected to rise to 4.7% in 2026
Global economic growth is forecast at 3.1% in 2026
3.4% in 2027
The 2027 forecast was revised upward by 0.2 percentage points
Global economic growth will be only 2.5% in 2026
It will fall to 4.1% in 2027
Revised upward by a cumulative 0.7 percentage points
Taoyuan shooting over financial dispute injures 1; police take suspect in for further investigation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A shooting occurred in Luzhu District, Taoyuan City, leaving a man with a gunshot wound to the thigh. He is not in life-threatening condition. Police took the person involved in the case in for questioning. The case is related to a debt dispute of about NT$4 million, and investigators are looking further into the circumstances and the source of the firearm.
Renmei Pumping Station in Niaosong, Kaohsiung, to add pumps; completion expected in February 116
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
高雄市水利局 is carrying out an emergency project to upgrade flood-control facilities at the Renmei Pumping Station, adding 2 submersible electric pumps at a total cost of about NT$6.65 million. The project is expected to be completed in February next year to boost flood-control capacity in the Renmei area of Niaosong.
China cuts export tax rebate benefits for new energy vehicles; experts say move could ease trade friction
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Chinese government will cut the value-added tax export rebate rate for new energy vehicles from 13% to 9%, effective next April. Experts say the move could help ease external trade friction, curb low-price competition in overseas markets and steer the industry from price competition toward competition based on product strength. Lower-end models that rely on tax rebates for profits are likely to be hit hardest.
陽明交大 analyzes how listeners distinguish beat from bit, exploring the influence of native languages on foreign-language learning
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
陽明交大 found that learning a second language is constrained by the sound categories of one’s native language. Taking beat and bit as examples, Taiwanese learners easily confuse them because their vowels are similar to those in Mandarin Chinese, and rely on sound duration to tell them apart. Their pronunciation tends to move closer to that of their native language.
Thai Air Force to Monitor Military Facilities in Central Laos, Assess Major Powers’ Influence and Intentions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Thai Air Force Commander 希沙 said the force will continue monitoring the development of Chinese air force bases in Laos to assess major powers’ influence and intentions, and coordinate with the government and Foreign Ministry in response to changing regional geopolitics.
Pesticide Fipronil Exceeds Limit in Chinese White Radishes; 24 Metric Tons Intercepted at Border
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration announced the latest border inspection results. A shipment of 24 metric tons of white radishes imported from China was intercepted for exceeding the limit for the pesticide fipronil, while about 15 metric tons of cabbage from Vietnam was intercepted for exceeding the limit for the heavy metal cadmium. All other noncompliant products were returned or destroyed.
Facts
24 metric tons of white radishes imported from China
Pesticide fipronil residue detected at 0.002ppm
Quantification limit: 0.001ppm
1463 inspection applications received for radishes from China
Animal welfare groups launch another referendum drive to ban wild boar snares, submit 1.2萬 copies of proposal to Central Election Commission
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Animal welfare groups gathered more than 1.2萬 copies of the proposal within 35 days and submitted them to the Central Election Commission to launch a referendum calling for a ban on the use, distribution and manufacture of wild boar snares, as well as amendments to the Animal Protection Act to regulate them at the source.
Riyadh Airport Attacked; Saudi Arabia Issues No Alert, Faces Dilemma Between Protecting the Public and Avoiding Social Unrest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Riyadh International Airport in Saudi Arabia was hit by a deadly attack. Authorities had previously stopped issuing alerts to maintain social stability, prompting questions about its defensive capabilities and public safety; the civil defense department subsequently reissued threat alerts.
Facts
At least 18 people were killed
More than 300 people injured
Hit by 4 attacks
The first alerts since September 29
Original今年5月開始透過全國預警系統
Since the U.S.-Iran war broke out in February this year
The relevant regulations announced in March this year
Companies mentioned：中央社、路透社、Middle East Policy Council、青年運動、Houthi
Defense Ministry proposes dedicated pilot system; Koo Li-hsiung confident it will reduce mid-career departures
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Defense Ministry has proposed a dedicated pilot system that would allow senior lieutenant colonel- and colonel-level pilots to extend their service to age 58 to retain talent. Defense Minister Koo Li-hsiung said he was confident the measure would help reduce mid-career departures.
Facts
Serve until age 58
Submitted to the Executive Yuan for review on Sept. 4
China sanctions officials from Taiwan's diplomatic allies; Chiu Chui-cheng calls it a new form of transnational repression against Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China announced countermeasures against officials from Paraguay and Belize. Mainland Affairs Council Minister Chiu Chui-cheng strongly condemned the move as a new form of transnational repression against Taiwan and said Taiwan would respond.
China sanctions officials from Taiwan's diplomatic allies Paraguay and Belize; U.S. statement opposes Beijing's coercion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. State Department opposed China's sanctions against officials from Paraguay and Belize over their dealings with Taiwan, calling them coercive. Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi said China was extending “transnational repression” to Taiwan's diplomatic allies.
China sanctions officials from Taiwan's diplomatic allies; Chen Ming-chi calls it another case of transnational repression
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China imposed countermeasures against officials from Paraguay and Belize. Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi criticized the move as a case of transnational repression and stressed that Taiwan's international visibility was increasing, questioning whether China intended to sanction the whole world.
14-year-old in France takes gun to school hidden in guitar case, wounds principal and teacher
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A shooting occurred at Joseph-Racan middle school in Aubagne, southern France. A 14-year-old male student fired a hunting rifle hidden in a guitar case, wounding the 53-year-old principal and a 37-year-old teacher. School staff subsequently subdued the suspect, who was taken into custody.
Neihu murder-suicide: Woman stabbed 19 times and killed; man sentenced to life in prison in second trial
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In the Neihu murder-suicide, a man surnamed Su, who was staying at Shih Hsin University, stabbed a woman surnamed Tsai 19 times with a knife after becoming angry when she asked to break up, killing her before taking his own life. The Shilin District Court sentenced him to life in prison in the first trial. 台灣高等法院 dismissed the appeal in the second trial, making the sentence final.
Facts
One stab wound penetrated 9 centimeters
The man surnamed Su at nearly 10 a.m. on the morning of Nov. 25, in year 113
華爾街日報: China's vicious debt cycle weighs on economic growth and affects the world
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
華爾街日報 reported that credit to China's nonfinancial sector has surpassed 300% of GDP, with rapidly mounting debt weighing on domestic economic growth and affecting global trade. Although the Chinese government has stressed that central government debt is under control, high debt levels among local government financing vehicles and companies have led to wasted resources and export dumping, with the annual trade surplus topping $1 trillion. Experts say that unless China changes its growth model, which relies on investment and exports, its financial system will gradually deteriorate.
Facts
Already exceeded 300% of gross domestic product (GDP) last year
60 percentage points higher than at the end of 2019
China's credit has grown by more than $43 trillion since Xi Jinping took power in late 2012
Pushing China's annual trade surplus with the rest of the world above $1 trillion
Central government borrowing accounts for only about 30% of GDP
A broader measure of China's total government debt climbed to 127% of GDP last year
Higher than 98% in 2020
Last year, Chinese corporate debt as a share of GDP was twice the global average
Last year, the median borrowing rate for publicly listed Chinese manufacturing companies was about 2.4%
Household consumption accounted for about 40% of China's GDP in 2024
In the United States, it was close to 70%
China's GDP grew 4.3% year over year in Q2 this year
International buzz: Is China eyeing a new target for an attack on Taiwan? Not Penghu, but this island of 19,000 people is expected to become a new powder keg between the U.S. and China!
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Chinese scholars argued at a seminar in Guangzhou in June that the Batanes Islands are a geographic extension of Taiwan and therefore belong to China. 海光基金會 director Ray Powell said the move shows that China cares about the law, and the islands could become a new U.S.-China flashpoint.
Facts
A group of Chinese scholars argued at a seminar held in Guangzhou in June that the Batanes Islands are a geographic extension of Taiwan and therefore belong to China.
The Batanes Islands lie along a waterway directly south of Taiwan. China would likely need to control the waterway to launch an attack on Taiwan.
Ray Powell, director of 海光基金會(SeaLight Foundation), said China cares about the law.
Didn't buy an Apple or Samsung tablet? Insiders recommend 1 brand with better value for money: “Great picture quality, lots of features, long battery life and very durable”—well worth the price
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
好市多 has restocked the TCL TAB A1 Plus tablet. Users have shared positive reviews of its large screen, long battery life and great value for money, calling it a quality choice for older adults to watch shows and for the whole family to share.
Facts
The TCL TAB A1 Plus features a large 14.3-inch matte screen and eye-care functions designed to be easy on older adults' eyes.
The TCL TAB A1 Plus is priced at just over NT$10,000, only half the price of an iPad.
The built-in jnote note-taking software has a simple, easy-to-use interface and good battery life.
The 小米 tablet performs well on video calls, losing only about 15% of its battery during a video call lasting more than an hour.
Returns beat 0050 and actively managed ETFs! Ruan Mu-hua reveals the key to “this fund's” high yield: it goes ex-dividend after 台積電's earnings call
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Financial expert Ruan Mu-hua wrote on Facebook on October 13 that 群益半導體 ETF (00927) pays a distribution of NT$2, with an annualized distribution yield of about 20%. Its return since the start of 2026 has exceeded 107.6%, the highest among high-dividend ETFs. The fourth-quarter performance of 00927 will depend on the outlook from 台積電 and 聯發科 at their earnings calls.
Facts
00927's distribution this time is NT$2, with an annualized distribution yield of about 20%.
00927 has returned more than 107.6% since the start of 2026, ranking first among high-dividend ETFs.
台積電's third-quarter revenue reached NT$1.494 trillion, a record for the same period.
Original00927持股中台積電與聯發科各逾14%，合計占比近3成
00927's net asset value fell about 24% from its June 22 peak through July 30.
聯發科's first AI accelerator ASIC is scheduled to enter production in the fourth quarter of this year.
U.S. military plans livestreamed execution by firing squad for Fort Hood shooter! Speaker Johnson fears it could become a terrorist recruitment tool, while an archbishop urges Catholics not to serve on the firing squad
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The U.S. military is considering livestreaming the execution by firing squad of Fort Hood shooter Hasan, drawing strong opposition from House Speaker Mike Johnson, Archbishop Timothy Broglio and the international community, who fear it could become a terrorist recruitment tool or violate human rights standards.
Facts
House Speaker Mike Johnson said he was concerned the livestreamed video could become a recruitment tool for future terrorists.
Archbishop Timothy Broglio urged Catholics serving in the U.S. military not to take part in the Pentagon's execution by firing squad.
Hasan is scheduled to be executed at Fort Hood on Dec. 3, marking the first time since 1945 that the U.S. military has carried out an execution by firing squad.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights condemned livestreamed executions as public executions that violate the absolute prohibition on torture.
Australian Environment Minister Watt condemned the U.S. military's plan to livestream the execution as “disgusting.”
China sanctions ministers from 2 of Taiwan's diplomatic allies; Foreign Ministry calls it absurd: Is it going to sanction the whole world?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
China's Foreign Ministry announced on the 12th sanctions against 2 ministers from Belize and Paraguay, accusing them of supporting Taiwan independence. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry and premier strongly condemned the move as an act of hegemony and reiterated their resolve to safeguard freedom, democracy and regional peace.
Facts
China's Foreign Ministry announced on the morning of the 12th that it was taking countermeasures against Belizean Minister Fonseca and Paraguayan Minister Villate.
China's Foreign Ministry said the 2 ministers had willingly become pawns of the Taiwan authorities in their efforts to rely on foreign support to pursue independence, seriously interfering in China's internal affairs.
Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi said Taiwan would help its diplomatic allies respond and provide necessary assistance.
Paraguay's Foreign Ministry stressed that China's sanctions would not affect its diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing would take all necessary disciplinary measures against people who stubbornly support pro-independence separatist forces in Taiwan.
Premier Cho Jung-tai said China had repeatedly wielded its hegemony abroad, and its mindset and actions had drawn widespread resentment around the world.
Is a new ABF upcycle coming? Substrate leader returns to the NT$1,000 mark; experts watch 3 signals: big investors are still buying
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
欣興 shares surged 20.8% to return to the NT$1,000 mark, driven by foreign investor buying and expectations of an ABF shortage. Investor A-Hsun stressed that this upcycle is underpinned by a sharp rise in actual revenue and a shift in the AI product mix. 高盛 forecasts that the shortage will continue through 2028.
Facts
欣興 (3037) shares surged 20.8% on foreign investor buying and expectations of an ABF shortage, returning to the NT$1,000 mark.
欣興 posted revenue of NT$17.746 billion in August, up 56.26% year over year and setting a record high for several consecutive months.
高盛 estimates in a report that the ABF supply-demand gap will reach a severe imbalance of 51% in 2028.
Delivery schedules for some ABF equipment manufacturers are already booked through 2031.
Over the past 7 weeks, the shareholding of major investors holding at least 400 lots of 欣興 rose by 3.34%, while holdings by investors with at least 1,000 lots increased by 2.68%.
Lifestyle buzz》Taking a driverless taxi to the airport: Is it practical? 華爾街日報 puts it to the test: pleasant, but too slow
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A 華爾街日報 reporter tested Waymo's driverless taxi and found it cheaper than Uber and Lyft and a pleasant experience, but the indirect route and speed limits made the trip take twice as long as usual.
Facts
A 華爾街日報 reporter recently tried Waymo's driverless airport pickup service three times.
Taking Waymo to and from the airport costs less than Uber and Lyft.
Both rides home in a Waymo took 48 minutes, twice the usual travel time.
Waymo takes indirect routes and drives below the speed limit.
NT$6,000 gone! Latest technology-based traffic enforcement goes into effect next January: violations in 1 county or city will bring an instant ticket; car and scooter drivers, beware
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Hsinchu City Police Department announced the addition or adjustment of technology-based enforcement equipment at 7 locations, targeting red-light running and failure to yield to pedestrians. The public education period runs through Jan. 11, 2027, with tickets to be issued starting on the 12th to improve traffic safety.
Facts
Hsinchu City Police Department announced the installation or adjustment of technology-based enforcement equipment at a total of 7 locations, with ticketing to begin on Jan. 12, 2027.
The technology-based enforcement equipment will strictly target 2 high-risk violations: running red lights and failing to stop and yield to pedestrians as required.
The 2 new fixed enforcement locations are the intersections of Zhongshan Road, Beida Road and Siwei Road, and Xida Road, Shिपin Road and Baoshan Road.
Drivers who run a red light at an intersection controlled by traffic signals face a fine of between NT$1800 and NT$5400.
Drivers of cars and motorcycles who approach a pedestrian crossing and fail to stop and let pedestrians pass first may be fined NT$1200 to NT$6000.
Because violations have declined, the equipment at the intersection of Section 2, Zhonghua Road and Linsen Road has been moved to the intersection of Nanda Road and Gongzhu Road.
Hsinchu City Police Department Director Chen Yuan-hui stressed that the core goal of technology-based enforcement is to reduce traffic accidents and ensure the safety of residents on the roads.
Where is Taiwan's best beef noodle soup? The 2026 Beef Noodle Festival announces its winner, with foodies raving: the broth is light and not greasy, and the beef tendon melts in your mouth
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 Taipei International Beef Noodle Festival was held at Taipei Expo Park in Yuanshan from Oct. 9 to 11, drawing 115 culinary teams and offering total prize money of NT$200,000. The braised gold awards in the fresh-prepared category went to 阿牛牛肉麵 and 叁食初, while the clear-broth gold awards went to 南港燴館中餐廳 and 「犒」. The packaged-meal category also selected 10 top picks each for braised and clear-broth noodles, serving as a food guide for the public.
Facts
The 2026 Taipei International Beef Noodle Festival was held at Taipei Expo Park in Yuanshan from Oct. 9 to 11, drawing 115 culinary teams and offering total prize money of NT$200,000.
The braised gold awards in the fresh-prepared category went to 阿牛牛肉麵 and 叁食初, each taking home NT$50,000 in prize money.
The clear-broth gold awards went to 南港燴館中餐廳 and 「犒」.
臺北市商業處 is offering a limited 3,500 beef noodle vouchers for NT$168 each, redeemable for NT$200, and valid through Nov. 13.
EU launches its largest-ever sanctions against Russia, defying Trump's “Russian oil deal”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The EU approved 1,569 new sanctions targeting Russia's military-industrial complex on Oct. 12. Despite U.S. President Trump and Russian President Putin reaching a diesel supply deal, the EU is pressing ahead with increased economic pressure on Russia in support of Ukraine.
Facts
On Oct. 12, the EU approved its largest sanctions list since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The new sanctions target 1,569 individuals and entities linked to Russia's military-industrial complex.
The sanctions cover 826 Russian companies and 743 people serving as executives of those companies.
More than half of the sanctions targets are in the ballistic missile supply chain used to attack Ukraine.
The U.S. had asked the EU to release 120 million barrels of diesel within 6 months.
Under the agreement between Trump and Putin, Russia is to immediately supply more than 300,000 metric tons of diesel.
Washington has eased some sanctions restrictions to facilitate Russian diesel transactions through April 2027.
Former 台泥綠能 employee suspected of breach of trust! Company seeks more than NT$72 million in damages and strengthens internal controls for procurement and tendering
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台泥綠能 announced it will seek more than NT$72 million in civil damages over a case involving a former employee suspected of breach of trust. It has also launched organizational restructuring and measures to strengthen procurement controls to protect the company's interests and prevent a recurrence.
Facts
台泥綠能 will file a civil claim for more than NT$72 million against 3 former employees and an unscrupulous vendor suspected of breach of trust.
台泥綠能's preliminary claim includes NT$29.9 million and about US$1.34 million.
台泥綠能 proactively filed a criminal complaint with prosecutors and investigators in November 2025.
台泥綠能 has undertaken organizational restructuring, adjusting its structure and the division of responsibilities.
台泥綠能 reviewed and revised its procurement and tender review systems, clearly separating responsibility for setting bidding rules from responsibility for reviewing actual bids.
On the 12th, the Tainan District Prosecutors Office concluded its investigation and indicted 3 former 台泥綠能 employees and an unscrupulous vendor on suspicion of breach of trust and other offenses.
台泥綠能 is strengthening internal controls and oversight mechanisms to prevent similar incidents from happening again.
“A wedding downstairs, a baby's 100-day celebration upstairs!” Man attends 2 banquets on the same day; bride discovers the truth and breaks down
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Wu Linfeng, a man from Liupanshui, Guizhou, held a wedding and a 100-day celebration for his child on different floors on the same day, sparking ethical controversy and police involvement. Officials determined that the case did not constitute bigamy, but are handling related financial disputes.
Facts
On Oct. 9, Wu Linfeng held a wedding with Kong Sihan and a 100-day celebration for his child with Lin Si at different floors of the same 飯店 in Liupanshui, Guizhou Province.
The poster for the 100-day celebration read “together for 1314 days,” prompting discussion about the nature of their relationship.
The 飯店 confirmed that relatives from different families had booked the 2 events separately. The families argued that day and called the police.
Officials in Zhongshan District, Liupanshui, said Wu Linfeng and Kong Sihan had legally registered their marriage, while he and Lin Si had not.
Officials said that holding a hundred-day banquet solely for a child born out of wedlock cannot directly be deemed bigamy.
Several local government departments have intervened to mediate the financial dispute between Wu Linfeng and the parties involved.
Is the Kuomintang’s 2028 candidate not Lu Hsiu-yen? Huang Wei-han offers 2 reasons why “this person has the best chance”: Only he can stand on equal footing with Lai Ching-te
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Media commentator Huang Wei-han analyzed the Kuomintang’s candidates for the 2028 presidential election, saying Han Kuo-yu has the best chance because of his strategic advantage in presiding over the National Day rally and his pro-U.S. stance. A 震傳媒 poll showed Chiang Wan-an leading with 20.4% support, followed by Han Kuo-yu at 18.9%, Lu Hsiu-yen at 16.6% and Cheng Li-wun at 4.3%.
Facts
Huang Wei-han said Han Kuo-yu has the best chance of becoming the Kuomintang’s 2028 presidential candidate.
A 震傳媒 poll conducted in August 2026 showed Chiang Wan-an with 20.4% support.
At the National Day rally, Han Kuo-yu criticized Lai Ching-te and Cho Jung-tai, saying Taiwan’s democracy must never be seen as “fake democracy, real dictatorship.”
Huang Wei-han said that among major politicians in the blue camp, Han Kuo-yu is the most pro-U.S. and the most willing to talk about Taiwan’s distinct character.
The survey covered people aged 20 and older registered nationwide, and successfully interviewed 1,070 people.
Where can you go abroad with a budget of just NT$20,000? In-the-know travelers recommend 6 affordable countries with great value for money and beautiful scenery: a 5-day, 4-night trip for under NT$15,000
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Travel expert Lily said budget-conscious travelers with NT$20,000 can use low-cost airlines and carefully selected accommodations to take 4- to 5-day short trips to 6 countries in Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia. Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam is the cheapest option, costing just NT$12,400.
Facts
Travel expert Lily said a budget of up to NT$20,000 can cover a 4- to 5-day quick trip to 6 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines and Malaysia.
Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam is the cheapest destination on the list, with estimated costs starting at about NT$12,400.
The estimated total cost for Okinawa, Japan, starts at about NT$14,000.
The estimated total cost for Seoul, South Korea, is under NT$17,000, starting at about NT$16,600.
With visa-free entry, Bangkok, Thailand, is estimated to cost about NT$13,200 or more.
The estimated total cost for Cebu in the Philippines starts at about NT$15,000.
The estimated total cost for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, starts at about NT$14,200.
NT$930,000 Hermès bag doused in red wine! 富錦樹 releases recording to refute claim: No one entered the private dining room
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
苗懂 CEO Annie Miao alleged that her Hermès bag was stained with red wine while dining at a restaurant under 富錦樹. 富錦樹 responded by releasing audio and surveillance footage, saying no one witnessed the staining and no staff entered the private dining room while she was away from the table. The parties dispute responsibility and the amount of compensation.
Facts
苗懂 CEO Annie Miao alleged that her designer bag was stained with red wine while dining at a restaurant under 富錦樹.
The damaged Hermès bag was a light-colored, matte crocodile-leather Kelly To Go, valued at NT$930,000.
富錦樹 released a recorded phone call and surveillance footage, saying no staff entered the private dining room at the time of the incident.
富錦樹 said the parties had discussed a NT$930,000 compensation proposal, contradicting Annie Miao’s public account.
The parties have entered the legal process, and 富錦樹 has hired a lawyer.
Explainer: Do overtime pay and perfect-attendance bonuses count? A complete guide to labor insurance insured salary: What are employment insurance, occupational accident insurance and labor pensions?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 勞動部勞工保險局 reminded employers to accurately report insured salaries for labor insurance, employment insurance and occupational accident insurance, as well as monthly labor pension contribution wages, based on workers’ total monthly salaries. This includes items considered wages, such as overtime pay and bonuses. If pay varies or is irregular, employers should calculate the amount using the average of the most recent 3 months and may adjust the salary bracket at any time. Violations may result in penalties and liability for compensation.
Facts
The total monthly salary used to determine labor insurance coverage should include base pay, overtime pay, position allowances, perfect-attendance bonuses, wages for unused annual leave and performance bonuses, as well as other payments considered wages.
If a worker’s monthly income varies because of overtime pay, allowances or other items, the insured salary should be calculated using the average total monthly salary over the most recent 3 months.
Adjustments to labor insurance insured salaries are not limited to February or August each year; employers may apply for changes at any time.
Employers who fail to accurately report insured salaries or monthly labor pension contribution wages as required will face penalties and be liable for compensation if the violation is confirmed.
Under the new labor pension system, employers generally must contribute at least 6% of a worker’s wages to the retirement fund each month.
If the water supply at home is really cut off for several days, how much water should one person set aside per day? The official recommendation is more than many people think
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Based on the Taiwan Public Safety Guide, this article explains home emergency supply standards, recommending at least 3 liters of drinking and cooking water per person per day and 7 days’ worth of supplies for each household. It calculates that a family of 4 needs 84 liters for 7 days, or about 56 bottles of 1.5-liter water. The article clarifies that this amount does not include water for daily needs such as bathing and laundry, and also offers advice on storing water and drinking it safely after service is restored.
Facts
The current Taiwan Public Safety Guide recommends that households prepare at least 7 days’ worth of supplies, including at least 3 liters of drinking water per person per day.
The recommendation of 3 liters of drinking water per person per day accounts for drinking and cooking needs; it does not mean only water consumed as a beverage.
The 7 days’ worth of supplies kept at home and the 1-to-3 days’ worth in an emergency go-bag differ because they are intended for different situations.
The Ministry of Environment recommends storing water in clean, sealed containers with lids, and using it within 3 days.
Ignite dreams with passion! 南山人壽 dance competition sparks excitement among young people and creates a career-launching platform
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
南山人壽 held the second 南山 dance competition at the Shalun Creative Park, attracting 367 dancers and aiming to create a platform for young people to prepare for their careers. It also held a range of activities, including summer camps, scholarships and creative proposal contests, to deepen its campus engagement and nurture talent.
Facts
The second “2026 NS Dance 南山 Dance Competition” concluded in grand fashion at 南山人壽’s Shalun Creative Park.
The competition drew 367 dancers in 58 teams made up of students from 33 universities and colleges across Taiwan and young people from the wider community.
After an online video preliminary round, 20 outstanding teams advanced to the semifinals and finals.
The competition offered total prize money of nearly NT$300,000.
This summer, 14 “南山 Elite Leadership Summer Camps” were held, with career coaches and experts invited to teach.
The “南山 Elite Leadership Dream Fund” offers scholarships that outstanding students from 184 partner departments and participating campus activities may apply for.
The 5 “Creative Proposal Competitions” taking place from September to November focus on insurance education, career development and sustainable business.
台泥 is “adding another leg”! Shareholders approve European listing plan at special meeting as Chang An-ping laments domestic system limits technology’s potential
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台泥 shareholders approved a plan for its subsidiary Cimpor International to list in Europe, aiming to expand its sources of European funding and strengthen the application of low-carbon technologies while retaining control of the parent company.
Facts
台泥 held a special shareholders’ meeting on the 13th, where a resolution to apply for an initial public offering and listing of subsidiary Cimpor International Holdings on an overseas securities market passed with 94.74% support.
台泥 Chairman Chang An-ping said the listing would give 台泥 “another leg” and would not affect existing shareholders. 台泥 will retain absolute control of Cimpor International and continue to consolidate its accounts.
According to 台泥’s half-year report this year, its cash and time deposits totaled about NT$148 billion.
Chang An-ping said the company’s Asian operations are currently unprofitable, but revenue from Europe will allow it to remain profitable through the end of the year.
台泥 will continue to improve its factories, develop low-carbon materials, boost energy efficiency and invest in renewable energy, energy storage and resource recycling.
Companies mentioned：台泥、Cimpor International Holdings、Cimpor International
Taiwan’s best shopping destination isn’t 全聯 or 寶雅! Foreign visitors recommend 1 must-visit spot that’s “open 24 hours, cheap and full of bargains”: a shopper’s paradise with everything you need
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This report looks at how Taiwan’s 小北百貨, with its wide range of products and low prices, has been dubbed the “Taiwanese version of 唐吉訶德” by foreign visitors. Drawing on experiences shared online, it notes the store’s 24-hour service and yellow signs, and contrasts its prices with the high cost of hardware and household goods in Europe and the United States to explain why it has become a must-visit destination for foreign tourists in Taiwan.
Facts
小北百貨 and 唐吉訶德 have several things in common: they sell just about everything, are open 24 hours, have yellow signs, and often feature unusual decorations on their shelves.
A Japanese boss visiting Taiwan specifically asked to shop at 小北百貨, marveling that it had practically everything.
Taiwan’s hardware and household goods attract foreign shoppers because prices abroad are considerably higher.
What is the “abandon Taiwan” theory? Will the United States abandon Taiwan? A look at arguments on both sides and years of controversy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines the definition, history and controversy surrounding the “abandon Taiwan” theory, covering the views of scholars such as John Mearsheimer and Kavanagh, and exploring the implications for the U.S. economy and its alliances.
Facts
The “abandon Taiwan” theory can be traced to 1950, when Secretary of State Acheson left Taiwan outside the U.S. Western Pacific defense perimeter.
A May 2026 report by the National Security Bureau said Beijing was spreading theories that the United States doubts Taiwan and will abandon it.
Citing estimates, Hudson Institute senior fellow Sobolik said losing access to TSMC’s contract manufacturing could shrink U.S. GDP by as much as 11%.
In a 2022 interview with 風傳媒, Mearsheimer said the headline distorted his argument and that he had consistently advocated for the United States to defend Taiwan.
In a presentation at a workshop co-hosted by 布魯金斯學會 and 蘭德公司, Kavanagh recommended privately telling Taipei that the United States would transfer responsibility for defending the Taiwan Strait to Taiwan before 2030.
Japanese poll: China is the biggest threat; 76% of Japanese worry about a “Taiwan contingency,” but only 9.9% support the Self-Defense Forces joining a conflict
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
新聞通信調查會 released a poll on October 10 showing that 76.7% of Japanese worry China could use force against Taiwan, while only 9.9% support the Self-Defense Forces joining a conflict. Public opinion favors avoiding direct military involvement, even as politicians promote Taiwan-Japan defense cooperation and military exercises in the southwestern islands.
Facts
新聞通信調查會 released the results of its 19th nationwide public opinion poll on October 10.
A total of 76.7% of respondents felt a sense of crisis over the possibility that China might use force around Taiwan.
Only 9.9% of respondents supported the Self-Defense Forces fighting alongside the U.S. military against Chinese forces.
A total of 30.2% of respondents said Japan should not become involved militarily at all, including by allowing U.S. forces stationed in Japan to use their bases.
Support for the Self-Defense Forces fighting alongside the U.S. military fell to 9.9% this year, from 13.3% in 2023.
Japan and the United States will hold the “Keen Sword 27” joint exercise from October 19 to 29.
Keiji Furuya, a Liberal Democratic Party member of the House of Representatives, said a parliamentary group supportive of Taiwan had established a Taiwan-Japan defense cooperation task force.
Smith called for a mechanism to notify victims when systems are breached by malicious AI agents, as well as an “emergency brake” switch that would allow developers to shut down systems.
Altman and Amodei recommended allowing independent third-party evaluators access similar to that of internal employees, so they can monitor models in real time and publish their findings to the public.
The United Kingdom established the AI Safety Institute under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, using voluntary agreements to secure access for testing before advanced models are deployed.
Kanishka Narayan, the UK parliamentary under-secretary of state for AI, said the country had not ruled out mandatory legislation to regulate advanced AI models if voluntary reviews proved ineffective.
How can you win NT$10 million from a receipt just by shopping in Taiwan? The government isn’t simply giving away money—the real purpose is to prevent one thing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan’s government introduced its uniform-invoice prize system in 1951 to encourage people to request receipts through the chance to win prizes, enabling transaction checks and helping prevent tax evasion. The prizes are funded by a share of business tax revenue. The current NT$10 million special prize was introduced in 2011, and the system has produced many winners. It has also adopted cloud invoices as technology has advanced.
Facts
Taiwan’s uniform-invoice prize system officially began on January 1, 1951.
The uniform-invoice prizes are funded by allocating 3% of total annual business tax revenue.
The NT$10 million special prize for uniform invoices was introduced for the January-February 2011 period.
Original截至2026年5至6月期，累計共有1302張符合兌領資格的千萬元特別獎中獎發票。
When uniform invoices were first introduced in 1951, winners were matched against the special prize numbers in patriotic lottery tickets, and the top prize was NT$50,000.
Business buzz: Chinese cars flood UK streets! 1 in every 6 new cars is made in China; they cost only half as much and perform better!
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Jaecoo SUV brand under Chinese automaker Chery has quickly become a bestseller in the UK. In the first half of 2026, nearly one-sixth of cars in the UK market were Chinese brands, with imports doubling year over year and raising concerns across the global auto industry.
Facts
Jaecoo, a sub-brand of 中國奇瑞汽車, launched the Jaecoo 7 SUV in the UK two years ago and became a bestseller in less than two years.
Data from Schmidt Automotive Research show that nearly one-sixth of cars sold in the UK in the first half of 2026 were Chinese brands.
So far this year, the number of cars imported into the UK from China has nearly doubled compared with the same period in 2025.
The expansion of Chinese cars in the UK market has raised concerns among global automakers.
Companies mentioned：中國奇瑞汽車、Jaecoo、Schmidt Automotive Research
Trump plans to buy diesel from Russia; lawmakers from both parties condemn the move as illegal
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Trump plans to import large quantities of diesel from Russia to lower prices in the United States and suspend related sanctions until 2027. The move has drawn strong opposition from lawmakers in both parties, who accuse him of violating laws banning Russian energy imports. Ukraine and Western allies have also criticized the plan.
Facts
A bipartisan group of 7 U.S. senators issued a joint statement saying the agreement violates U.S. law.
The U.S. Treasury Department will suspend sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7, 2027.
The average price of diesel in the United States is currently $6.28 per gallon.
Why is there so little ash after a person is cremated? It isn’t all burned away—the real reason, explained by a funeral expert
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A funeral expert explains the science behind the small amount of ash left after cremation. The body’s water and organic matter vaporize and dissipate under high temperatures, leaving only heat-resistant inorganic minerals in the bones, which are ground into a small amount of ash.
Facts
Nearly 60% to 70% of the human body is water.
Modern cremation furnaces typically operate at temperatures of 800°C to above 1000°C.
Hydroxyapatite, the main component of bone, has a melting point of more than 1600°C.
The inorganic mineral bone material left after cremation of a normal adult weighs about 3.5% of the person’s original body weight.
The bone material left after cremation weighs about 1.5 to 3 kilograms.
Not 85度C or Louisa! Taiwan’s strongest coffee chain: TOP 10 crowned for “great quality, reliable service and a comfortable setting”—a favorite for work and study
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
《網路溫度計DailyView》 released its ranking of online buzz for Taiwan’s coffee chains for September-October 2026. 星巴克 topped the list with nearly 100,000 mentions, while Louisa and 85度C ranked second and third.
Facts
路易莎咖啡 is a homegrown chain with more than 500 stores across Taiwan and a strategy of making specialty coffee affordable.
成真咖啡 began in Taichung’s Shenji New Village and is known for its all-day soufflé cafe concept and charitable donations.
多那之咖啡蛋糕烘焙 uses a hybrid business model, with some locations open 24 hours.
cama現烘咖啡 focuses on freshly roasted coffee, with professional roasting machines installed in every store.
上島珈琲店 uses its exclusive double-extraction method to make its unsweetened golden sesame milk coffee.
黑沃咖啡 was co-founded by a team of coffee roasters and cuppers, with a focus on bringing specialty coffee into everyday life.
At least 20 killed and 356 injured after Houthis attack civilian airport in Saudi Arabia; several airlines announce flight suspensions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Yemen's Houthi forces continued attacking Riyadh and Dammam airports in Saudi Arabia from Oct. 6 to 10, leaving at least 20 dead and 356 injured. The United States is assessing whether to intervene militarily, several airlines have suspended flights, and Riyadh airport will remain closed until Oct. 17, as regional security conditions remain severe.
Facts
Since Oct. 6, Houthi attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia have killed at least 20 people and injured 356.
卡達航空 announced a temporary suspension of flights to and from Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, and Dammam, an eastern city.
美國達美航空 has postponed its new nonstop route from Atlanta to Riyadh, originally scheduled to launch on Oct. 23, until March 2027.
沙烏地阿拉伯民航總局 announced that King Khalid International Airport will remain closed until Oct. 17.
U.S. Secretary of State Rubio confirmed that a Houthi attack killed a U.S. citizen.
Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia formed the R4 diplomatic alliance, condemning the Houthi attacks.
India's Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned the successive attacks on Riyadh airport, saying they caused loss of life and injuries.
Taipei Mayor Huang Shan-shan posted a response on the 13th amid debate over where the votes would go, posing 五 questions to Chiang Wan-an and Shen Po-yang. She stressed that candidates should focus on their platforms and people's livelihoods, rather than calculating their vote bases.
Facts
Huang Shan-shan posted on Facebook on the 13th, posing 五 questions to Chiang Wan-an and Shen Po-yang.
Huang Shan-shan won 342,141 votes as an independent in the 2022 Taipei mayoral election, receiving 25.14% of the vote.
Huang Shan-shan believes the true third force is the people, who have the power to choose, not any particular political party.
Huang Shan-shan said voters are neither commodities nor anyone's property.
Huang Shan-shan stressed that centrist voters are the key group that determines who wins or loses.
Memory stocks suffer a broad sell-off! 南亞科 falls below NT$500, 華邦電 drops more than 8%: Why has China's 長鑫存儲 sparked market panic with its new technology?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
長鑫存儲 announced progress on a new DRAM architecture, triggering a steep decline in memory stocks worldwide. 南亞科 fell below NT$500, while 旺宏 and 華邦電 plunged more than 8%. The market is concerned about Chinese manufacturers catching up technologically and the risks of AI investment.
Facts
長鑫存儲 is reported to have made technological progress on a new DRAM architecture, stoking concerns about intensifying competition in the global memory industry.
南亞科 shares fell 8.6% to NT$481.5, breaking below the NT$500 mark.
Original長鑫存儲計劃於2026年底前推出採用新型記憶體架構的伺服器記憶體產品。
長鑫存儲's new technology uses a “4F-squared” storage-cell design, which can reduce cell area compared with the 6F-squared structure used in mainstream commercial DRAM.
三星電子 plans to mass-produce DRAM products using a 4F-squared design and a process below 10 nanometers by 2028.
Liu Xueyi and Tan Songyun's 《蘭香如故》 loses out! The champion of 2026's top 10 Chinese dramas is this series: it surpasses 《早春晴朗》 to become a hit, with online views topping 3.5 billion and rave reviews
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Competition in the 2026 Chinese drama market is fierce, with multiple series surpassing 1 billion online views. 《逐玉》 topped the rankings with 3.59 billion, followed by 《主角》 with 2.043 billion. The shows span genres including suspense, historical drama and urban romance, reflecting strong audience interest in diverse content.
Facts
《逐玉》, starring Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei, was the most-watched Chinese drama online in 2026, with 3.59 billion views.
《主角》, starring Zhang Jiayi and Liu Haocun, ranked second with 2.043 billion online views.
《低智商犯罪》, starring Wang Xiao, ranked 10th with 1.058 billion online views.
《早春晴朗》, starring Jing Boran and Sun Qian, ranked 9th with 1.072 billion online views.
《太平年》, starring Bai Yu and Zhou Yutong, ranked 8th with 1.103 billion online views.
《驕陽似我》, starring Song Weilong and Zhao Jinmai, ranked 7th with 1.157 billion online views.
《蘭香如故》, starring Tan Songyun and Liu Xueyi, ranked 6th with 1.212 billion online views.
《九門》, starring William Chan and Zeng Shunxi, ranked 5th with 1.276 billion online views.
25-year-old influencer reveals mid-stage liver cancer! Fundraising goal suddenly raised, drawing online backlash; Alisasa speaks out, urging people to verify before donating
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
25-year-old influencer James Party sparked controversy after revealing a cancer diagnosis and soliciting donations, raising the fundraising target without making diagnostic documents public. Influencer Alisasa urged the public to verify information before donating, to avoid having their goodwill betrayed.
Facts
James Party, a 25-year-old Taiwanese-American influencer, revealed that he has mid-stage liver cancer.
James Party raised his fundraising target from NT$450,000 to NT$600,000.
James Party has not made diagnostic documents public, prompting discussion.
Influencer Alisasa reminded the public to verify information before donating.
Some online commenters questioned James Party's responses to public inquiries and the blocking of comments.
Foreign investors flee South Korean stocks—is Taiwan next? SK Hynix and Samsung get hammered; Ruan Mu-hua reveals 2 key moats for Taiwanese firms: Don't panic
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
South Korean stocks plunged amid foreign investor withdrawals and a vacuum in share buyback demand. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index also fell, affected by technological breakthroughs at China's 長鑫存儲. Ruan Mu-hua said Taiwan has protective moats thanks to its broad supply chain and 台積電's strengths in advanced logic chips, and there is no need for excessive panic.
Facts
South Korean stocks plunged 3.6% as trading resumed after a holiday, with losses totaling 22% in the second half of the year.
Data from 摩根大通 show that a share buyback program worth about $41 billion combined at Samsung and SK海力士 is nearing its end.
Equipment giant ASML announced a 10% across-the-board price increase for parts supplied to South Korean customers, effective next January.
China's memory giant 長鑫存儲 announced a key advance in its next-generation 4F² architecture and plans to launch server memory products by the end of this year.
長榮 and Singapore Airlines lose out! Top 10 airlines with the world's best in-flight Wi-Fi: “This one” takes the crown, with passengers praising smooth video calls and social media posting
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Skytrax released its latest “World's Best Inflight WiFi” rankings, with 長榮航空 placing ninth as the only Taiwanese carrier on the list. 卡達航空 took the top spot. Low-Earth-orbit satellite technology such as 星鏈 is key to improving the in-flight internet experience, with 7 of the top 10 airlines using the technology.
Facts
長榮航空 ranked ninth in Skytrax's World's Best Inflight WiFi rankings.
卡達航空 ranked first for the world's best in-flight Wi-Fi.
The survey assessed satisfaction among travelers from more than 100 countries worldwide.
As many as 7 of the top 10 airlines have chosen to partner with 星鏈.
長榮航空's in-flight Wi-Fi is supported by 松下航空電子.
阿聯酋航空 expects to roll out 星鏈 services across more of its fleet by mid-2027.
Husband dies, leaving NT$30 million: Must his wife split it equally with the children? If eligible, she can first claim NT$13 million and still inherit the estate
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The article explains how an estate is divided when a spouse dies under the statutory property regime. It says the surviving spouse, in addition to inheritance rights, can claim a share of the difference in remaining marital property. This right not only increases the spouse's share but can also be deducted from the total estate to reduce taxes. The article also details the calculation method, deadline and payment obligations.
Facts
Under the Civil Code, when a spouse inherits an estate together with the children, the spouse's statutory share is the same as each child's.
The basis for calculating a claim to a share of the difference in remaining marital property is the existing marital property, after deducting debts incurred during the marriage.
Property received through inheritance or other gratuitous means, as well as consolation money, is generally excluded from the division of the difference in remaining marital property.
When the deceased's spouse claims a share of the difference in remaining marital property, that amount can be deducted from the total estate when calculating estate tax.
A claim to a share of the difference in remaining marital property expires if it is not exercised within 2 years from when the claimant learns of the difference.
In principle, estate tax taxpayers must file an estate tax return within 6 months from the day after the deceased's death.
If the share of the difference in remaining marital property is not actually paid within 1 year from the date the National Taxation Bureau issues its certificate, the bureau will claw back the related taxes.
台積電 unveils business opportunities worth more than NT$90 billion! 聯電 and 世界先進 stand to gain from the second wave of AI dividends; Japanese foreign investors' target prices revealed
International buzz》Made in Silicon Valley！The ultra-high-end NGC phone worn on the chests of U.S. soldiers has become the latest weapon on the drone battlefield…
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The U.S. Army has issued “Next Generation Command and Control” (NGC2) to frontline soldiers. The device is a smartphone integrating communications, maps and AI tools, designed to improve reliable communications during dispersed operations.
Facts
The U.S. Army has issued “Next Generation Command and Control” (NGC2) to frontline soldiers.
The most obvious feature of NGC2 is the addition of a smartphone on infantry soldiers’ chests.
The phone integrates Silicon Valley’s latest communications, mapping and artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
NGC2 is designed to keep troops reliably connected while dispersed and moving at high speed.
NGC2 has become even more important as drones and missiles take center stage on the battlefield.
Is a Kaohsiung Municipal Children’s Park on the way？Chen Chi-mai reveals 3 possible sites：This 1 area is the top choice and “could happen the soonest”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kaohsiung City Councilor Chung Yi-chung questioned Mayor Chen Chi-mai about plans for a municipal children’s park. Chen said 3 sites are under consideration：near Daliao MRT Station, in the Zhonglun development area, and at Fengxiang Park and nearby Taiwan Sugar land. The site next to Daliao MRT Station is seen as the fastest option to move forward because of its convenient transportation, but further calculations and comparisons are needed.
Facts
Kuomintang Kaohsiung City Councilor Chung Yi-chung pressed hard for a Kaohsiung municipal children’s park during a council session, and urged Mayor Chen Chi-mai to settle on a location before leaving office.
Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai said 3 sites are under consideration：next to Daliao MRT Station, within the Zhonglun development project, and at Fengxiang Park and nearby Taiwan Sugar land.
The candidate site for a children’s park within the Zhonglun development project is relatively small, at only about 2.6 hectares.
Chen Chi-mai said the land next to Daliao MRT Station is the most promising option if the goal is to build a children’s park as soon as possible.
For the Fengxiang Park and Taiwan Sugar land proposal, the city government has asked the Environmental Protection Bureau to allocate funding for a land survey.
More than 400,000 room stays have benefited from domestic tourism subsidies！Hualien, Taitung and Yilan take the top 3 spots：How long will the NT$1.53 billion budget last？
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Tourism Administration under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications is offering weekday accommodation subsidies for domestic travel. As of Oct. 7, more than 400,000 room stays had received subsidies, using NT$390 million of the budget. Hualien, Taitung and Yilan ranked as the top 3 beneficiaries. The program is scheduled to run through Nov. 30, but applications will be suspended earlier if the funding runs out.
Facts
As of Oct. 7, the number of room stays receiving weekday domestic tourism subsidies across Taiwan had exceeded 400,000.
The weekday accommodation subsidy program has a total budget of NT$1.53 billion.
Hualien County, Taitung County and Yilan County ranked as the top 3 counties by the number of room nights receiving accommodation subsidies.
People traveling to Taiwan’s main island on weekdays and staying for 2 consecutive nights can receive up to NT$2,000 in accommodation subsidies.
The Tourism Administration said there are currently no plans to add to the budget.
South Korean stocks plunge 6% and Taiwan stocks tumble more than 1,000 points：Should investors flee？Fund managers reveal key investment strategies and warn against focusing only on AI
Not Chiang Wan-an or Cheng Li-wun！Scholar reveals Han Kuo-yu’s calculation in going off script at National Day event：This KMT heavyweight is low-key but active
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Scholar Shen Jung-chin analyzed Han Kuo-yu’s unscripted criticism of the Presidential Office and Cabinet leaders at the National Day event, saying it was preparation for possible turmoil in the Kuomintang after the year-end local elections. A review of KMT heavyweights such as Lu Hsiu-yen and Chiang Wan-an and their moves concerning the party chairmanship and the 2028 election points to a possible prelude to infighting if the party fares poorly.
Facts
Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu went off script during his National Day speech on the 10th, calling the mass recall campaign political persecution and naming President Lai Ching-te and Premier Cho Jung-tai. He stressed that Taiwan must never become a dictatorship in the guise of democracy.
Shen Jung-chin, an associate professor at York University in Canada, said Han Kuo-yu’s high-profile criticism was preparation for possible turmoil in the Kuomintang after the year-end local elections.
Shen Jung-chin said that if the Kuomintang loses the Taipei or New Taipei mayoral race, party chair Cheng Li-wun would never resign given her personality, and might set her sights on the 2028 presidential election.
Shen Jung-chin said the pressure campaign and infighting within the Kuomintang are not about the party chairmanship, but are a prelude to the 2028 presidential election.
News decoded》Air Force admits F-16Vs are not fully equipped with “Viper Shield”：What is this electronic warfare system, and why is it important？
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
After the first F-16V fighter jets arrived in Taiwan, the Ministry of National Defense confirmed that software for the “Viper Shield” electronic warfare system was incomplete, delaying delivery. Legislators demanded a written report within 2 weeks clarifying the installation progress of the hardware and software and the status of testing.
Facts
The first 2 F-16V Block 70 fighter jets arrived at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung on Oct. 2.
Air Force Chief of Staff Li Ching-jan confirmed that only some of the electronic warfare system hardware was installed on the first aircraft to arrive in Taiwan, while the software is still under development.
The “Viper Shield” electronic warfare system was developed by U.S. company L3Harris and is designated AN/ALQ-254.
There are 63 F-16Vs on the U.S. production line, of which 6 have passed flight tests and been accepted.
L3Harris announced that the first batch of 35 “Viper Shield” systems had completed production, and that orders had increased to 233 systems for 8 allied countries.
The Ministry of National Defense acknowledged that development and production of the new electronic warfare system were among the factors delaying F-16V deliveries.
The chair ordered the Ministry of National Defense to provide committee members with written information on the installation of the F-16V ground collision avoidance system and the hardware and software of the new aircraft’s electronic warfare system.
Military drones found to contain Chinese-made chips：Koo Li-hsiung explains why and vows strict inspections to eliminate the red supply chain
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Defense Minister Koo Li-hsiung responded to allegations that Chinese-made chips were used in a military drone procurement, saying the issue arose because units had failed to inspect items in the past when making small purchases. The military now strictly requires inspections even when purchasing just 2 or 4 drones, to eliminate risks from the red supply chain.
Facts
錦明實業 is suspected of assembling drones with China-made parts and submitting false certificates of origin.
The Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office searched 錦明實業 and arrested 2 people; a request to detain them and deny visitation was approved.
Han Kuo-yu singles out Cho Jung-tai for criticism over refusing to countersign in National Day speech; Cho: It was a passive and necessary measure
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Responding on the 13th to Legislative Yuan Speaker Han Kuo-yu’s criticism of Premier Cho Jung-tai for refusing to countersign bills in his National Day speech, Cho said the move was necessary to uphold constitutional order. The two sides differ over the spirit of the Constitution and the separation of powers. Cho reiterated the Executive Yuan’s position and said the door to communication remains open.
Facts
Legislative Yuan Speaker Han Kuo-yu singled out Premier Cho Jung-tai for criticism in his National Day speech for refusing to countersign bills.
Cho Jung-tai said on the 13th that refusing to countersign was a constitutional power and duty based on the need to uphold constitutional order.
Cho Jung-tai said refusing to countersign was a passive and necessary measure.
Cho Jung-tai quoted Lai Ching-te as saying that even when opinions differ, people should respect one another and the system.
Cho Jung-tai said the first version of the Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures sparked controversy because of an error in its calculation formula, showing that the reconsideration mechanism had failed.
What happens if you don’t pay National Health Insurance premiums? Can you still see a doctor? Your wages and bank deposits could be seized! A guide to late fees, card suspension risks and how to make up payments
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article details the legal consequences of unpaid National Health Insurance premiums and ways to address them, including late-fee calculations, the threshold for administrative enforcement and conditions for suspending benefits. It also provides guidance on insurance coverage after leaving a job and how to pay overdue premiums online.
Facts
For general insured persons, a late fee of 0.1% of the premium due is added each day, up to a maximum of 5% of the premium due.
Individuals who are more than 150 days behind on payments and owe a combined 7,500 yuan or more in premiums and late fees may be referred for administrative enforcement.
Employers or other insurance units that are more than 30 days past the payment deadline and owe a combined 7,500 yuan or more may be referred for administrative enforcement.
Those found to be able to pay but refusing to do so may have their insurance benefits suspended.
The National Health Insurance Administration’s toll-free landline is 0800-030-598.