From protecting documents to trimming margins! A laminator that does 2 jobs in 1 goes on sale
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
サンワサプライ株式会社 has released the A3-compatible “400-LM015” and A4-compatible “400-LM016” laminators, each combining laminating and cutting functions in 1 device.
【JAF Tokyo】100 more entries than last time! 13 winners selected from 331 entries in traffic safety poster contest for elementary school students
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Tokyo branch of 一般社団法人日本自動車連盟（JAF） will hold an awards ceremony on Nov. 15 for the 3rd “Let’s Eliminate Traffic Accidents Together!” poster contest. It will select and honor 13 winners from 331 entries, 100 more than last time.
『異界ノ宿帳』, operated by 株式会社フロンティアワークス, will take part in Steam Next Fest starting Oct. 20, 2026, and has announced the release of a free demo and Chinese-language support, among other updates. The game is scheduled for release on Steam in November 2026.
“MUJINA INTO THE DEEP POP UP SHOP in 紀伊國屋書店” confirmed!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アルマビアンカ announced that a pop-up shop selling original merchandise from the manga “MUJINA INTO THE DEEP” will open at 紀伊國屋書店 Shinjuku Main Store from Nov. 3, 2026.
“TV Anime Delicious in Dungeon POP UP SHOP in ボークス” to be held!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アルマビアンカ will hold the “TV Anime Delicious in Dungeon POP UP SHOP” at ボークス locations in Akihabara and Osaka, and will offer new original illustrated goods for sale ahead of their general release.
An online lottery featuring newly illustrated mini-character artwork from the TV anime Delicious in Dungeon is coming to くじ引き堂!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社KADOKAWA will begin selling the “Red Dragon Hoodie ver.” online lottery featuring newly illustrated mini-character artwork from Delicious in Dungeon on くじ引き堂 starting October 27, 2026.
An online lottery featuring completely new illustrations drawn by character designer and chief animation director Kazuhiro Takamura, as well as existing illustrations, is coming from the TV anime Mahoromatic!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社KADOKAWA will begin selling an online lottery for Mahoromatic on くじ引き堂 starting October 20, 2026. The lottery features illustrations drawn by Kazuhiro Takamura, and an X follow-and-repost campaign will also be held.
All-new illustrations! The hugely popular comic The Fox Deity and the Salaryman makes its first appearance on くじ引き堂!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社KADOKAWA will begin selling an online lottery featuring prizes with original illustrations from the popular comic The Fox Deity and the Salaryman on くじ引き堂 starting October 22, 2026.
Tokorozawa Sakura Town’s first-ever Hawaii event! “Hawaiian Fest 2026 in Sakura Town” to be held Nov. 7 (Sat) and 8 (Sun) — Enjoy a weekend mini-resort with the family
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社KADOKAWA and 株式会社角川メディアハウス will hold “Hawaiian Fest 2026 in Sakura Town” for the first time at Tokorozawa Sakura Town in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, on November 7 and 8, 2026. The event will feature performances by more than 300 dancers and a food market, as well as a campaign offering ZIPAIR points worth 100,000 yen.
[神戸ポートピアホテル] Supporting “PORTOPIA STREET FES 2026” and handling the planning and operation of “Gourmet Garden”; selling honey harvested at the hotel and more! Held October 31 (Sat)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
神戸ポートピアホテル will participate as a supporting company in “PORTOPIA STREET FES 2026,” to be held on Port Island in Kobe on October 31, 2026, and will handle the planning and operation of “Gourmet Garden.”
On November 1 (Sun), yokai will appear in Takefu. “Enjoy the Yokai! Echizen Ayakashi Banquet” to be held.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Echizen Ayakashi Banquet Project, organized by 株式会社Idea Craft and others, will hold a yokai event at Takefu Central Park and Hoshuji Temple on November 1, 2026, and promote walks around town in collaboration with the Takefu Chrysanthemum Doll Festival.
When people have different visions of the desired outcome, the questions they think are necessary also change. Illustrated materials supporting workplace dialogue and practice now available free of charge
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
リクエスト株式会社 has released free illustrated materials titled “When people have different visions of the desired outcome, the questions they think are necessary also change,” designed to support workplace dialogue and practice based on organizational behavior science data.
“Muscleman × Care Worker” 株式会社ビジョナリー to hold its original workplace experience and workout program, “Muscle Internship,” for the first time in the Hikone area of Shiga Prefecture on November 14 (Sat)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ビジョナリー will hold “Muscle Internship” for the first time in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, on November 14. Combining workplace experience with strength training, the program aims to address local labor shortages and improve perceptions of welfare work.
HelloBoss begins free beta release of Japan’s first* personal AI agent dedicated to job hunting! AI conducts voice interviews and supports users from proposing more than 700,000 job listings to preparing applications
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社NGA has begun offering a free beta version of Japan’s first personal AI agent dedicated to job hunting on its AI job platform HelloBoss. The service uses voice interviews and resume analysis to understand job seekers, then has AI support them from proposing more than 700,000 job listings through application preparation.
Facts
Approximately 53,000 major convenience store locations nationwide
[New service × education] Fukuoka brand design company publishes paid note article to develop designers for the AI era and support their independence
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社スタジオグラム published a paid note article on October 20, 2026, systematizing how designers who cannot break out of monthly sales of around 50,000 yen can structure their work to become independent and command higher fees in the AI era.
那覇商工会議所 and INPIT沖縄県知財総合支援窓口 will hold an intellectual property utilization seminar on December 9, featuring Kohta Ogawa, the inventor of flick input, as the instructor.
iYell to hold special seminar where business leaders can consult on AI challenges
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
iYell株式会社 will hold an AI utilization seminar for business leaders on October 26. The program will include a demonstration of business process automation by a liberal arts graduate CEO, individual consultations, and a networking session. The participation fee is 3,000 yen.
Accessory brand LUNA EARTH to open its Central Park store on 10/27 (Tue)! A wide selection of accessories made with carefully chosen materials, from 330 yen (tax included).
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Accessory brand LUNA EARTH, operated by 株式会社エンドレス, will open its Central Park store in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, on October 27, 2026. Prices start at 330 yen (tax included), and the store will carry allergy-conscious earrings and fashion accessories.
Halloween special event “Guess the Weight of the Pumpkin Campaign” starts October 24
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社オランダ家 will run the Halloween special “Guess the Weight of the Pumpkin Campaign” starting October 24, 2026, and will also sell limited-edition cakes.
Limited-edition Tirolian “Salt Vanilla” made with salt purified at 鳥飼八幡宮 goes on sale October 19
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A limited-edition Tirolian, “Salt Vanilla,” created in collaboration between 鳥飼八幡宮 and 株式会社千鳥饅頭総本舗, goes on sale October 19, 2026. It is made with Itoshima salt purified at 鳥飼八幡宮 and is available at 3 locations.
Facts
Oct. 19, 2026
1,000 yen
10 pieces per pack
Companies mentioned：鳥飼八幡宮、株式会社千鳥饅頭総本舗、千鳥屋MARK IS 福岡ももち店、チロリアンショップ福岡空港店
[Nagoya] A 2-day-only Christmas dinner, “Strings Christmas ~Moonlit Night~,” featuring carefully selected ingredients such as the “world’s three great delicacies,” spiny lobster and blackthroat seaperch, at teppanyaki restaurant 匠
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Teppanyaki restaurant 匠, inside the Strings Hotel Nagoya operated by 株式会社ベストブライダル, will serve its Christmas dinner, “Strings Christmas ~Moonlit Night~,” for 2 days only, December 24 and 25, 2026. The special course features carefully selected ingredients including spiny lobster and blackthroat seaperch.
Geotab announces full-scale entry into Japan: Integrated video and vehicle data telematics to help businesses improve fleet efficiency and reduce driving risks
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Geotab has announced its full-scale entry into Japan and begun offering a telematics platform that integrates video and vehicle data. Using the AI-powered dashcam “GO Focus Plus” and generative AI assistant “Geotab Ace,” it will help improve driver safety and fleet efficiency.
Facts
An annual cap of 960 hours
Could be short by approximately 34%
By fiscal 2030
Tailgating reduced by up to 90%
Smartphone use while driving decreased by up to 95%
Built on 26 years of experience worldwide
More than 6 million vehicles and assets connected worldwide
Plating product maintenance agent, Plating Craftsman “Takumi,” now on sale!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社プロト has launched “PLOT Maintenance Custom Plating Craftsman ‘Takumi,’” a surface-protection maintenance agent that prevents rust and deterioration in plated products. It is manufactured by 三和メッキ工業株式会社.
Recruiting members for the 2nd through 4th cohorts of “Toy Curators,” play ambassadors who will work at the Minakami Wooden Toy Museum (provisional name), scheduled to open in autumn 2027!
Xi’s 2 visits to Pyongyang reflect a shift in Beijing’s diplomatic strategy, Korean scholar says
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Korean scholar Park Byung-kwang said Xi Jinping’s visits to Pyongyang in 2019 and 2026 reflect a shift in Beijing’s diplomatic strategy from denuclearization talks to managing the regional strategic environment in response to U.S.-China competition.
U.S. envoy Witkoff to visit Europe and Russia this week, hopes to meet with Zelenskyy and Putin
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. envoy Witkoff will travel to Europe this week for talks with Ukrainian leaders, then plans to go to Russia in hopes of meeting Russian President Putin to jointly develop a peace proposal.
Facts
Original（中央社華盛頓19日綜合外電報導）
Witkoff is expected to arrive in Oslo, Norway, on the 20th
Taoyuan man sentenced to 9 years and 2 months on appeal for punching drunken man to death in park
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man surnamed Hsu from Taoyuan argued with a drunken man surnamed Chin in a park and punched him in the head, causing him to fall and hit the ground. He died after more than a month of emergency treatment. The district court sentenced Hsu to 9 years and 2 months in prison for causing death by assault. The Taiwan High Court rejected appeals by prosecutors and the defendant and upheld the original ruling.
Facts
Hsu sentenced to 9 years and 2 months in prison
About 8 p.m. on July 13, 113th year of the Republic of China calendar
He nevertheless died on Aug. 16 of the same year from central nervous system failure
台積電 falls NT$15 as Taiwan stocks drop 529 points to close at 46292
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taiwan Stock Exchange weighted index fell 529.15 points to close at 46292.93, with trading value shrinking to NT$758.684 billion. 台積電 fell NT$15 to close at NT$2405, while heavyweight electronics stocks, passive components and OEM manufacturers all fell or struggled to reverse their declines.
LGBTQ parade on NTU campus prompts reflection on categorization and self-identity through clothing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台大學生會 recently held an LGBTQ parade on campus, calling on students and faculty to reflect on social categorization and self-identity through clothing, and building momentum for the Taiwan LGBTQ Pride parade scheduled for the 31st.
President Lai: Government to invest an additional NT$100 billion to help small and medium-sized businesses upgrade and transform
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Lai announced at a hardware industry exhibition that the government will invest an additional NT$100 billion over the next 8 years to help small and medium-sized businesses upgrade and transform and adopt AI applications. Combined with existing budgets, total annual investment will reach NT$25 billion.
Man admits spreading false claim that Kaohsiung hantavirus cases were 5 times those in Taipei and New Taipei; receives deferred prosecution
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man surnamed Liu spread false information on the Wetalk高雄 Facebook page claiming that Kaohsiung had 5 times as many hantavirus cases as Taipei and New Taipei. After completing its investigation, the Kaohsiung District Prosecutors Office granted him deferred prosecution for 1 year under the Communicable Disease Control Act, taking into account his admission of the offense.
Former European Commission president visits Taiwan: No one can stand apart from global public health issues
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former European Commission President José Manuel Barroso visited Taiwan at the invitation of 中央研究院 and delivered a speech, emphasizing the need for solidarity in addressing global public health issues. Countries must work together to establish shared mechanisms for disease surveillance and outbreak response, and strengthen economic resilience through international cooperation and institutional reform.
Facts
Accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of the European Union in 2012
中研院 established its “Distinguished Lecture” series in 2009
Poll puts Taipei mayoral hopeful ahead for the first time; Shen Po-yang says the outcome will be decided at the ballot box
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The latest poll by 信民協會 shows Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang leading Kuomintang incumbent Chiang Wan-an. Shen said the outcome would be decided by votes, not paper polls, and criticized Chiang for being unprepared on issues including medical evacuations from outlying islands.
U.S. bars federal civilian agencies from using DeepSeek over fears sensitive data could be sent to China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security ordered federal civilian agencies to stop using AI tools developed by Chinese startup DeepSeek, citing concerns that sensitive data could be transmitted to China.
Myanmar junta releases photos of Aung San Suu Kyi receiving books from King Charles, drawing attention
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Photos released by Myanmar’s military government show detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi receiving books and a letter from Britain’s King Charles III, in a rare report of contact with the outside world since her detention in 2021.
Chinese authorities publish 10 articles at once to explain the economy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After announcing year-on-year GDP growth of 4.6% for the first 3 quarters, Chinese authorities published explanatory articles by 10 statistics bureau officials. The data showed that rural consumption grew faster than urban consumption, online retail became an important driver of consumption growth, and retail sales of services continued to outpace those of goods.
Facts
10 articles explaining the economy published at once
Gross domestic product (GDP) grew 4.6% year on year
Total retail sales of consumer goods reached 37 trillion yuan
Up 1.1% year over year
Rural retail sales of consumer goods rose 2.3% year on year
Growth was 1.4 percentage points faster than in urban areas
Online retail sales of goods and services rose 4.4% year on year
Jazz pianist 陳若玗 releases new single, using improvisation to convey fragility and resilience
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Jazz pianist 陳若玗 has released “Madly, Deeply,” the first single from her new album “Modern Love.” Through a dialogue between piano and string quartet, the song conveys fragility and resilience.
78-year-old 余天 makes rare public appearance; 李亞萍 says he is taking campaign appearances to help cover household expenses
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Veteran entertainer 余天, 78, has begun making campaign appearances to help cover household expenses amid financial pressure on his son 余祥銓, who is supporting the family. He has already taken more than 20 appearances. 余天 recently performed at the opening of a campaign headquarters for 民進黨 Taipei City Councilor 林世宗, and his wife 李亞萍 said his health has improved.
Building seismic resistance “can be assessed with a photo”; 國研院 releases AI technology for public use
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國研院’s 國震中心 has released AI disaster prevention and response technologies, including “安全耐震我的AI,” which allows the public to upload photos for free to obtain an initial assessment of seismic resistance; “建物震損速評,” which assists experts in their evaluations; and “POSEIDON,” a fire-service water-supply dispatch system.
Facts
Collected 8000 photos of earthquake damage to key building components from Taiwan and abroad
Trained to determine damage severity from on-site photos in under 1 second
Has helped handle more than 3000 fire cases
Can bring forward emergency water-pressurization by an average of more than 6 minutes
台灣光華雜誌 to adjust its print edition from next year, publishing a quarterly for use by overseas missions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
外交部 announced that 台灣光華雜誌 will undergo a transformation starting in 2027, with a limited-run print quarterly for use by overseas missions. It will also prioritize digital content, promote online exhibitions and revamp its website.
Legislator raises inflation concerns; 卓榮泰 says efforts are being made to keep full-year CPI below 2%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Premier 卓榮泰 said the Executive Yuan is working to keep the annual increase in the consumer price index (CPI) below 2% in response to inflation. Central bank Governor 楊金龍 said keeping inflation at around 2% is a medium- to long-term goal, while it may exceed that in the short term.
New AI disinfection robot unveiled; 台大醫院 says experience suggests it saves at least 4 staff for a night
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台大醫院 and 威剛科技 have unveiled the 3rd-generation AI disinfection robot “台威醫寶,” which combines 222-nanometer far-UVC technology with AI object recognition. Based on experience, it can save at least 4 cleaning staff for a night.
柯志恩 seeks advice from 陳鎮川; 賴瑞隆 asks the public to help come up with a ballot-number slogan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國民黨 Kaohsiung mayoral candidate 柯志恩 sought advice from manager 陳鎮川, saying she hopes to transform Kaohsiung from a city of cultural events into a cultural-industry hub. 民進黨 candidate 賴瑞隆 called on the public to help come up with a slogan for his ballot number.
Facts
2026 Nine-in-One Elections
39 days until the election
As candidates are set to draw their ballot numbers on the 23rd
吳俊立 questioned over rural road case; Taitung’s blue and green mayoral candidates speak out
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Investigators probing an alleged profiteering case involving the widening of rural roads by the Taitung County government questioned former county chief 吳俊立 and searched his home and candidate 吳秀華’s service office. 吳秀華 said she respects the judicial investigation, while 民進黨 candidate 陳瑩 urged 吳秀華 to explain the use of public works funds and any issues involving conflict-of-interest recusal.
Airlines target AI supply chain with new routes and more flights, vying for semiconductor business
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
星宇航空 said strong passenger and cargo demand from the semiconductor supply chain has prompted it to add flights to Prague, Phoenix and Ontario, and that it is evaluating new destinations including Dallas and Chicago. It has also deployed larger aircraft and added flights on its Kuala Lumpur route to meet the needs of Taiwanese companies’ investments in Southeast Asia and their AI supply chain expansion.
范斯 refuses to say whether he backs 尼坦雅胡, breaking with 川普
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. Vice President 范斯 refused to declare support for Israeli Prime Minister 尼坦雅胡, taking a different position from 川普. Meanwhile, reports of 赫格塞斯’s visit to Israel have drawn attention to the situation in the Middle East.
Facts
Israel’s parliamentary election, scheduled for the 27th
川普 and Israel jointly attacked Iran in February this year
Legislator 陳瑩 said Taiwan Railways’ fare discounts have a policy gap, leaving junior and senior high school students without a discount of their own. Transportation Minister 陳世凱 said he has asked 台鐵公司 to study the issue, with the aim of adapting the college student discount model and introducing discounted fares for junior and senior high school students in January next year.
Facts
5-discount fare
Schoolchildren ages 6 to 12
Junior and senior high school students ages 12 to 18
TPCA Show opens; 東台 showcases unmanned drilling solution for AI server boards
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 TPCA Show opens, with machine tool maker 東台 exhibiting CCD high-precision drilling machines and unmanned solutions for AI server boards and IC substrates. Order visibility extends through the end of 2027.
Vice President Hsiao: Semiconductor and PCB sectors join forces to seize AI opportunities; government will be industry's strongest backer
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim attended the 2026 Taiwan International Circuit Board Exhibition, stressing that close cooperation between the semiconductor and PCB sectors is key to seizing AI opportunities. The government will continue to back the industry and help small and medium-sized enterprises adopt AI through energy infrastructure, regulatory revisions and funding, promoting supply chain upgrades.
Facts
2026 Taiwan International Circuit Board Exhibition
A flagship industry with output valued at NT$1 trillion
High-pressure filming takes a toll on Chang Hsiao-chuan; actor hospitalized after filming
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Actor Chang Hsiao-chuan was rushed to the hospital after his body could no longer withstand the prolonged emotional stress of filming “Postage Stamp and Soufflé.” His co-star, Chen Yi-han, shared her views on infidelity and marriage.
90 years since the Chinese Communist Party's “Long March”; Hong Kong media say officials will hold a commemorative gathering
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the Chinese Red Army's completion of the “Long March.” Hong Kong newspaper 明報 reported that a commemorative gathering is expected to be held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on the 22nd, with General Secretary Xi Jinping set to deliver a speech. Attendance could reach 3000.
Trump invokes French riots to attack Democrats, says US could face similar crisis
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
US President Donald Trump invoked the recent outbreak of violent unrest in France to attack the Democratic Party while campaigning for Republican Senator Marshall, claiming the United States could face a similar crisis if Republicans do not win. He blamed the unrest in France on immigration and urged French President Emmanuel Macron to tighten border controls.
Facts
Original（中央社華盛頓19日綜合外電報導）
Violent protests broke out in France on October 17
Green iguanas hurt red bean harvest; Agriculture Ministry considers classifying wildlife crop damage as a natural disaster
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
KMT legislator Su Ching-chuan questioned Agriculture Minister Chen Chun-chi about green iguanas ravaging red bean crops in Wandan, Pingtung. Chen said the ministry is considering including crop damage caused by wild animals in natural disaster relief. On issues concerning the Wandan-Linluo drainage project and plans to restart Nuclear Power Plant No. 3, Premier Cho Jung-tai separately instructed the Water Resources Agency to investigate and said options would be offered depending on the circumstances.
Facts
260,000 in 113 (ROC calendar)
It had fallen to 180,000 last year
It has collapsed 4 times in 5 years
The river narrowed from 50 meters to just 30 meters
工研院 teams up with 群翊 to break into low-Earth-orbit satellite and HPC supply chains
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
工研院 unveiled an AI dynamic real-time temperature calibration system at the Taiwan International Circuit Board Exhibition and has joined hands with 群翊 to enter low-Earth-orbit satellite and HPC production lines. It also showcased compressed-air leak sensing and wet-process monitoring technologies, partnering with 川碩科技 on their applications, respectively.
Facts
More than 5 degrees Celsius
Reduced to below 1%
Long-distance range of 5 to 10 meters
Cut compressed-air energy consumption by about 15%
Groundbreaking held for Shantung Bridge in Lucao, Chiayi County; 嘉邑行善團 to build its 660th bridge
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 660th bridge built by 嘉邑行善團, Shantung Bridge, held its groundbreaking ceremony in Lucao Township, Chiayi County. The project will cost NT$6 million and is expected to be completed in the middle to latter part of next year. It aims to widen the floodway cross-section and reduce the risk of flooding.
French riots trigger sell-off in government bonds, compounding fiscal woes
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Social unrest and political instability following weekend riots in France triggered a brutal sell-off in government bonds. The 10-year yield rose to a multi-decade high, while the yield spread between French and German government bonds widened to its highest level since the early 2010s. Markets are concerned that fiscal reforms could be blocked and uncertainty could grow ahead of next year's presidential election.
Report: 55% of China's AI computing power is used to produce microdramas and videos
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A report says 55% of China's AI computing power is used to generate microdramas and videos, prompting discussion over whether “more than half of computing power goes to making feel-good dramas.” Data from companies including 中文在線 and 字節跳動 show varying shares across applications, while the microdrama market is projected to reach US$18 billion.
Facts
55% of China's domestic AI token consumption goes to microdrama and video generation
24% is used for e-commerce advertising
Only 15% is actually invested in research and development
The total market is approaching US$18 billion
About NT$587 billion
China's market alone is worth more than US$14 billion
Accounts for 77.78% of the global market
As many as 430,000 microdramas have been released in China
13 times the figure for all of 2025
Token consumption is usually 2 to 3 times that of AI animation series.
Only about 10% is used to train and run video-generation models.
Rays beat Guardians to claim AL crown; face Brewers in World Series for first title in franchise history [video]
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
坦帕灣光芒 defeated 克里夫蘭守護者 4 wins to 2 to claim the American League title and will face 密爾瓦基釀酒人 in the World Series for the first title in franchise history.
On whether to declare a typhoon day for Typhoon Shanshan, Chen Chi-mai says decision will be based on weather data and the typhoon's conditions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai said whether to declare a typhoon day for Typhoon Shanshan will depend on data from 中央氣象署 and the typhoon's conditions. He ordered 水利局, 環保局 and other agencies to prepare for flood prevention, drainage and evacuation.
Facts
Marine warning to be issued as early as the evening of the 21st
Land warning to be issued on the 22nd
Typhoon to have its greatest impact on the 23rd and 24th
Unimicron's Chien Shan-chieh: AI computing power boom shifts substrates from going it alone to ecosystem collaboration
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
欣興電子 Chairman Chien Shan-chieh said the boom in AI computing power is driving substrates and PCBs toward larger sizes and more layers, and the industry needs to shift from going it alone to ecosystem collaboration. He said a supply-demand gap for key materials could reach 20% in 2027, some equipment has lead times of more than 30 months, and Taiwan should focus on its strengths in high-end R&D and advanced manufacturing.
Facts
Doubles every 5 months
Expands to 12 to 14 times the size of a photomask
Materials supply-demand gap could reach 20% in 2027
China's September consumer data rebounds; analysts cite Mid-Autumn Festival timing and low base
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China's September consumer data rebounded, which analysts attributed mainly to the shift in Mid-Autumn Festival timing and a low base. Domestic demand remains relatively weak compared with external demand, but the rollout of policy-based financial instruments could bring improvement.
Facts
Third-quarter year-on-year growth in total retail sales of consumer goods was 0.7%
Up 0.5 percentage points from the 2nd quarter
The figure rose 1.1% year on year
Up 0.7 percentage points from August
Automobile sales account for around 10% of total retail sales of consumer goods
Per capita disposable income rose 5.6% year on year in the 2nd quarter
Growth accelerated by 0.6 percentage points from the 1st quarter
The year-on-year growth rate of median disposable income fell to 4.3%
Down 0.7% from the 1st quarter
China's real GDP grew 4.5% year on year in the 3rd quarter
RMB 700 billion remains in policy-based financial instruments
New Taiwan dollar plunges 1.71 jiao at midday, provisionally closing at 32.616
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The New Taiwan dollar provisionally closed at 32.616 against the U.S. dollar at midday in Taipei's foreign exchange market, down 1.71 jiao, with trading volume reaching US$1.671 billion.
3 Kaohsiung drinks exceed Enterobacteriaceae limits; black tea, soy milk among products penalized
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kaohsiung's Department of Health announced the results of a targeted inspection of cold beverages from June to September. Of 271 samples tested, 3 drinks were fined NT$30,000 under the law for exceeding Enterobacteriaceae limits, while 2 businesses had already stopped selling the products.
Taiwan to establish industrial park in U.S.; 東元: Texas site in place, new projects moving forward
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
東元 General Manager Kao Fei-yuan said that, in line with the government's progress toward establishing an industrial park in the U.S., 東元 already has a site in Texas and will pursue new projects. Economics Minister Kung Ming-hsin said Taiwan plans to raise tens of billions of dollars to build an industrial park in the U.S., creating a supply-chain base for 輝達 and other AI hardware manufacturers. 台積電 Chairman C.C. Wei confirmed the company is considering expanding production outside Arizona, with Texas among the options.
Facts
2026 International Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Green Energy Technology Exhibition
Raise tens of billions of dollars
Companies mentioned：東元、西屋馬達、TECO-Westinghouse Motor Company、輝達、NVIDIA、台積電、特斯拉、SpaceX、Terafab
Taitung farm road widening profiteering case; Wu Chun-li stopped at airport and taken in for questioning
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Investigators suspect profiteering in a Taitung County government's farm road widening project. They stopped Wu Chun-li at the airport as he was preparing to leave by plane and took him in for questioning, while also searching his residence and Council Speaker Wu Hsiu-hua's service office.
Buying Alaska natural gas, Premier Cho Jung-tai: National interests will be protected at all costs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Premier Cho Jung-tai said 中油 plans to purchase 6 million tons of natural gas from Alaska each year and will safeguard national interests and energy security. The Ministry of Economic Affairs said that if the plan proceeds smoothly, it could begin contributing to domestic supply as early as 2032.
Facts
Buy 6 million tonnes of Alaskan natural gas annually
Purchase 30% of the natural gas from the Alaska LNG pipeline project
Estimated investment of up to $4.4 billion
could contribute to domestic natural gas supplies as early as 2032
Spend NT$2.5 trillion to buy 30% of the output of the U.S. Alaska natural gas project
The project has been in the works for more than 10 years
Create a power supply gap lasting 6 years
Long-term energy contracts in the Middle East will be sufficient through 2031
Typhoon Shanshan approaches; Chiang Wan-an: Decision will be made under existing procedures
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As Typhoon Shanshan approaches, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an said the city will assess typhoon preparations under existing procedures. On the proposed relocation of Songshan Airport, Chiang disagreed with Health and Welfare Minister Shih Chung-liang, Interior Minister Liu Shih-fang and Transportation and Communications Minister Chen Shih-kai. Chiang suggested retaining the helicopter setup and establishing a green corridor through Taoyuan International Airport.
Facts
In these 3 years, 158 people from Lienchiang County were evacuated
32 evacuations involving patients with urgent and critical conditions
Trump open to meeting Xi and Putin on denuclearization; Ukraine's foreign minister: It will only fuel the war
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Trump said he was willing to hold trilateral talks with Xi Jinping and Putin to discuss nuclear weapons and denuclearization. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha criticized the move, saying it would fuel the war; the Kremlin said there was no substantive agreement, while China's Foreign Ministry said it had received no relevant information.
Facts
3-way talks
5-year presidential term during the martial law period
Nantou man argues with parents，sets fire to home with gasoline，leaving 1 dead and 2 injured
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man set fire to a home in Yuchi Township，Nantou County，after arguing with his parents，dousing it with gasoline and leaving 1 dead and 2 injured. The man and his father suffered burns and were taken to the hospital，while his mother died in the blaze. Police referred the case to prosecutors for investigation on suspicion of public endangerment and murdering a lineal ascendant.
Man seriously injured in attack outside Osaka District Court in Japan；suspect surrenders and is arrested
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man was seriously injured in an attack outside the Osaka District Court in Japan. The suspect，citing a financial dispute，turned himself in and was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Candidate for Miaoli City neighborhood chief accused of vote-buying with cash；detained and barred from meeting visitors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man surnamed Lai，a candidate for neighborhood chief in Miaoli City，was reported for allegedly buying votes for NT$500 to NT$1,000 each. After prosecutors ordered searches at 14 locations and summoned 16 people，they petitioned the court to detain him and bar visits，which was approved.
Facts
Payment of NT$500 to NT$1,000 per vote
Conducted searches at 14 locations
Summoned or notified 16 people to appear and explain
Listed bond ETFs attract funds for 10 straight weeks；net inflows estimated at NT$76 billion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
櫃買中心 said that，amid rising US Treasury yields，listed bond ETFs have attracted funds for 10 consecutive weeks since August，setting the longest streak this year，with estimated net inflows of about NT$76 billion.
Chen Chin-te：Land for north bank of Mataian Creek to be acquired through negotiated purchase；floodplain zone not subject to compulsory acquisition
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Executive Yuan政務委員 Chen Chin-te instructed that land in the floodplain zone on the north bank of Mataian Creek be acquired through negotiated purchase，with no compulsory acquisition. Construction of the upstream check dam above the barrier lake is continuing，and farmland restoration has reached 43 hectares.
Facts
11.4 kilometers of emergency access road completed
Aim to complete the entire 16-kilometer route
Farmland with sediment deposits of 50 centimeters or less
43 hectares of farmland restoration completed
Expected to reach 92.6 hectares by year-end
5 main rainwater drainage lines in Guangfu Township
Chiang Wan-an says medical evacuations after Songshan Airport relocation are not all for critical cases；DPP：Don’t view the world from Taipei
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chiang Wan-an said medical evacuations after the relocation of Songshan Airport would not all involve critical cases，drawing criticism from the DPP caucus. The caucus also criticized a KMT proposal for children’s health insurance subsidies for failing to specify a funding source.
Facts
Fewer than 40 days remain until the election
Required funding of NT$7.9 billion
An additional NT$533 per person would be required
With means-testing，the cost would be NT$7.3 billion
Each person would have to pay an additional NT$488
New Taipei's Sanxia borough chief allegedly tried to give rival a red envelope to induce withdrawal; 4 people indicted over deal-brokering scheme
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Xie, head of Bazhang borough in Sanxia, New Taipei, allegedly sought re-election by asking a party representative and a district office section chief, among others, to convey to his rival, Liu, an offer to compensate her campaign expenses and give her a red envelope in an attempt to broker a deal and persuade her to withdraw. Prosecutors indicted the borough chief and his wife, party representative Wang, and district office section chief Jian, among 4 people, for violating the Election and Recall Act.
U.S.-Japan Keen Sword drills include Taiwan Strait scenarios; 顧立雄 praises efforts to maintain regional peace
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Defense Minister Wellington Koo praised the inclusion of Taiwan Strait scenarios in the U.S.-Japan Keen Sword exercises, saying the move demonstrates neighboring countries' resolve to maintain regional peace and stability. He also mentioned that 國安會 Deputy Secretary-General Lin Fei-fan will deliver a speech at 國防大學, and gave an update on the progress of pending budget-unfreezing proposals at 國防部.
Facts
More than 150 pending budget-unfreezing proposals
Work on whole-of-society defense resilience over the past 2 years
Related budget-unfreezing proceedings scheduled for Nov. 4
Overtaking prohibited on highway climbing lanes; violators face fines of up to NT$6,000
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
高公局 reminded drivers that during the Peace Memorial Day long weekend, highway climbing lanes are for vehicles traveling below the minimum speed limit, and lane changes and overtaking are prohibited. Violators will be fined NT$3,000 to NT$6,000.
Facts
Fines of NT$3,000 to NT$6,000
106 to 112 million vehicle-kilometers
Southbound traffic on the first day could reach 61 mvk
東元 targets AIDC cooling market, seeks projects with international cloud service providers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
東元 is actively developing integrated cooling solutions for AI data centers (AIDCs), aiming to secure projects with international cloud service providers. AIDC and commercial air conditioning are expected to account for more than 60% of its Air Conditioning and Technology Business Group's revenue in 2027.
Domestic airfares have not risen in more than 20 years; 華信 hopes to delink cargo rates
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
華信航空 Chairman Chen Ta-chun and General Manager Chuang Ming-che said domestic airfares have not been adjusted for more than 20 years, and proposed starting with delinking cargo rates and imposing an overall quota on discounted senior tickets.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan reiterates warning: do not test Beijing's patience without limits
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan warned Manila against testing Beijing's patience without limits, responding to controversy over remarks about the use of force. He also accused the Philippines of lacking restraint and respect in its actions at sea and on education and Taiwan-related issues.
Facts
Cut off communication and dialogue between the Chinese and Philippine militaries for 3 years
Forced more than 180 Chinese teachers to leave the Philippines
Delivered 5 coffins to the embassy and Chinatown
Committed at least 10 serious maritime rights violations and provocations
Lu Shiow-yen leads delegation to Okinawa to officiate at high-altitude wedding ceremony for 66 couples
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen led a delegation to Okinawa, Japan, for a 28-hour visit. Key tasks included officiating at a high-altitude wedding ceremony for 66 couples, promoting city diplomacy, and reaching out to Taiwanese businesspeople and overseas compatriots. Kuomintang legislator Huang Chien-hao accompanied the delegation and helped coordinate flight arrangements.
Randall Schriver: China Coast Guard patrols east of Taiwan extend legal and political warfare in practice
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Randall Schriver, chairman of the 美國印太安全研究所, said the China Coast Guard’s continued patrols in waters east of Taiwan appear to be the mild enforcement activities of white-hulled vessels, but in practice extend legal and political warfare. If such enforcement is turned into actual combat operations, it would have a highly destabilizing effect.