イプソス株式会社 has released “Cost of Living Monitor 2026,” a survey of 23,531 people across 33 countries. In Japan, 89% believe inflation will not return to normal, while 32% are also concerned about a decline in disposable income.
リアルテックファンド invests in Zero Industries, which is taking on the challenge of building space power infrastructure with laser power transmission
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
リアルテックファンド, operated by UntroD Capital Japan株式会社, invested in Zero Industries Japan株式会社, which aims to build space power infrastructure using laser power transmission. Zero will use the funds raised to advance ground demonstrations and develop and commercialize its satellite power transmission service, “Helios.”
Facts
Cumulative assets under management have reached ¥50 billion
Kilometer-class outdoor power transmission demonstration
Companies mentioned：UntroD Capital Japan株式会社、リアルテックファンド、Zero Industries Japan株式会社、Zero、光産業創成大学院大学、GPI
【SIAF2027 | Main festival period: Jan. 16 (Sat.)–Feb. 21 (Sun.), 2027】The journey to “Planet Snow” is about to begin
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The main festival period for SIAF2027 (Sapporo International Art Festival 2027) runs from Jan. 16 to Feb. 21, 2027. A total of 34 participating artist groups and 9 partner organizations have been announced. The festival will unfold around the theme “Planet Snow” across 11 venues. Companies including Sony Group and コクヨ株式会社 are also participating as partners.
Facts
All 34 participating artist groups
All 9 partner organizations
Weaving together stories across 11 venues
Through Feb. 21 (Sun.)
On sale starting Oct. 27
A giant face robot about 4 meters tall
More than 80 applications from Japan and abroad
2 selected artist groups
Plan to exhibit a 48-meter-long work
A group of rock-shaped balloons reaching a maximum height of 14 meters
【Tokyo Comic Con 2026】Ryuta Sato named ambassador for the 10th anniversary! Akari Takeuchi, Rina Katsuta and Karin Miyamoto, former members of ハロー！プロジェクト, also named special support ambassadors!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社東京コミックコンベンション announced that Ryuta Sato will serve as ambassador for the 10th anniversary of Tokyo Comic Con 2026, to be held at Makuhari Messe in December 2026, and that Akari Takeuchi, Rina Katsuta and Karin Miyamoto will serve as special support ambassadors.
Lawyer Masaya Morita appointed to committee on facilitating the handling of belongings left behind by residents’ support corporations | Authense法律事務所
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Lawyer Masaya Morita, CLO of Authense法律事務所, has been appointed to the Committee on Facilitating the Handling of Belongings Left Behind by Residents’ Support Corporations, established as part of a 国土交通省 project.
Safie to speak at “Logistics DX Future Conference 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
セーフィー株式会社 will speak at “Logistics DX Future Conference 2026,” hosted by X Mile株式会社 on Nov. 11, 2026, giving a presentation on putting frontline AX into practice using a video platform.
Facts
Share (54.3%)
More than 1,500 people applied last year
More than 40 leading figures from government and industry will speak
Jointly develops a new film-decoration process for automotive parts
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
日本ペイント・オートモーティブコーティングス株式会社 announced that its subsidiary Nippon Paint Automotive Americas, Inc. and Taikisha USA, Inc., a group company of Taikisha, jointly developed a new film-decoration process for automotive parts and presented it at the 2026 SPE TPO Global Automotive Conference, held in Michigan, United States, on Sept. 29, 2026.
Facts
About 70% is discarded
Yield was significantly improved to more than 90%
Building volume can be reduced by 70% or more
Companies mentioned：日本ペイント・オートモーティブコーティングス株式会社、Nippon Paint Automotive Americas, Inc.、株式会社 大気社、Taikisha USA, Inc.
Restoring peace to the Strait of Hormuz and the beauty of its waters: A proposal for an international strait management system
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Associate Professor Mari Nukui of 文京学院大学 has issued an opinion letter proposing the establishment of a “Strait of Hormuz Management Organization” to ensure safety and protect the environment in the Strait of Hormuz.
Facts
Japan’s dependence on the Strait of Hormuz for crude oil imports in 2025 was 93.0%
オラクル announces Fusion Agentic Applications for HR, powered by Fusion Claw
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
オラクル announced Fusion Agentic Applications for HR, powered by Fusion Claw, offering agentic applications that autonomously carry out complex tasks under governance.
A popular Itoham series in bread! “Morning Fresh® Ham & Egg,” made with sliced loin ham and easy to eat even on busy mornings, launches Nov. 1 (Sun.), 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Shikishima Baking Co. will launch “Ham & Egg Made with Itoham’s Asa no Fresh® Roast Ham” in the Chubu, Kansai, Chugoku and Shikoku regions starting Nov. 1, 2026.
【ロイヤルパインズホテル浦和】A world yet unknown, drawn by the “eyes of the heart.” New works go on display at the “SDGs Art Gallery”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A new exhibition at the “SDGs Art Gallery” featuring works by 3 artists with disabilities from Saitama Prefecture has opened at ロイヤルパインズホテル浦和, operated by ソラーレ ホテルズ アンド リゾーツ株式会社.
Facts
Now in its 5th year
Original半年に一度
3 artists with disabilities
The highest part reaches approximately 25 centimeters
Lucy from “Cyberpunk: Edgerunners” depicted at 1/5 scale alongside cyberspace
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社プライム１スタジオ is accepting preorders for a “Concept Masterline” figure depicting Lucy from the anime “Cyberpunk: Edgerunners” at 1/5 scale. The product is scheduled for release from March to June 2028 and is priced at 153,890 yen, tax included.
Facts
Marking its 15th anniversary
1/5 scale
Starts Oct. 27
Scheduled for March-June 2028
¥153,890 (tax included)
Quantity available: 400
Height: 39 cm
Companies mentioned：株式会社プライム１スタジオ、PRIME 1 STATUE、CD PROJEKT RED、TRIGGER、クランチロール・アニメアワード
4 cities and 1 town on the Miura Peninsula join forces to make children marine researchers. “Kodomo Work” event sends them to investigate the waters around the uninhabited island of Sarushima using underwater drones
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Kodomo Work,” a marine careers experience project planned by アクトインディ株式会社, is partnering with 4 cities and 1 town on the Miura Peninsula to have elementary school students survey seaweed beds using underwater drones on the uninhabited island of Sarushima on Nov. 15, 2026.
Your vote can bring back that special mission! “NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobizato” Winter Homecoming Festival: Special Mission Revival Festival — Part 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
At the “NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobizato” attraction at the Nijigen no Mori anime park on Awaji Island, the “Special Mission Revival Festival” will let visitors vote to choose which previously held special mission will return. Voting runs from Nov. 6 through 30, 2026, and the mission with the most votes in each theme will return for a limited time from Dec. 24, 2026, through Feb. 28, 2027.
Facts
The series has run through its 27th installment
3 themes: “Team Assignments,” “Family” and “The Bonds of the Hidden Leaf Village”
From Fri., Nov. 6
Through Monday, Nov. 30
Starting Thursday, Dec. 24, 2026
Through Sunday, February 28, 2027
Just 5 minutes!
A site equivalent in area to approximately 28 Tokyo Domes
Pet influencer audition to be held at “Japan Wanko Festa 2026 in Odaiba”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FLUUUM, jointly operated by UUUM株式会社 and FLAFFY Co., Ltd., will hold a pet influencer audition exclusively for dogs at “Japan Wanko Festa 2026 in Odaiba,” taking place in Odaiba from Nov. 27 to 29, 2026.
Alternative investment platform “オルタナバンク” launches “[Distributions Every 3 Months] Autumn Campaign Fund: Clear Autumn Skies Edition ID1195”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
オルタナバンク, an alternative investment platform operated by SAMURAI証券株式会社, has launched a new fund, “[Distributions Every 3 Months] Autumn Campaign Fund: Clear Autumn Skies Edition ID1195.” The total offering is 81.22 million yen, with a target annual yield of 8% before tax and a minimum investment of 10,000 yen.
Facts
Total offering: 81.22 million yen
Target yield: 8% (before tax)
Minimum investment: 10,000 yen
Minimum funding threshold: Investment applications totaling at least 10 million yen
Developing a Physical AI collaboration platform for a world where AI and robots coexist safely and comfortably with people
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社NTTドコモ has developed a “Physical AI Collaboration Platform” that enables personal agents and robots to work together safely and comfortably. The platform has 3 key technological features: collaboration, control and consideration. It is scheduled to be demonstrated at the “NTT R&D FORUM 2026” in November 2026.
Facts
“NTT R&D FORUM 2026,” starting Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026
Buy, savor and show your support. “Ishikawa and Noto MEGURIP,” an in-station regional fair
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社JR東日本クロスステーション and 石川県 will hold the “Ishikawa and Noto Direct-from-the-Source Market” at Tokyo Station, supporting the region through sales of specialty products from Ishikawa and Noto, a vending machine supporting recovery efforts, stage events and more.
Fujikyu | From “protecting” forests to “growing, utilizing and renewing” them, following project registration under the J-Credit Scheme
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Following the project’s registration under the J-Credit Scheme, 富士急行株式会社 has agreed to work with 株式会社西湘フォレスト, 株式会社森林再生システム and 株式会社ステラーグリーン to promote forest conservation and the creation and use of environmental value through “growing, utilizing and renewing” forests.
Miyako Hotel Amagasaki, operated by 株式会社近鉄・都ホテルズ, will hold the “New Year Buffet 2027” from Jan. 1 to 3, 2027, offering all-you-can-eat and drink options including crab and beef steak, along with stage events by MARBLE, 張海輪 and 東西屋社中.
【BEB5軽井沢】Make a memory-decorating notebook while enjoying a sauna fully clothed! “BEB Foot-Only Sauna” offers a relaxed way to have fun with friends outdoors in winter
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
At BEB5軽井沢, part of 星野リゾート, the “BEB Foot-Only Sauna” will be open from Dec. 8, 2026, through March 31, 2027, and can be enjoyed fully clothed. Guests can boost circulation beneath a newly installed arch roof inspired by a barrel sauna, make a “memory-decorating notebook,” and enjoy “Spice Löyly Saman” made with Shinshu’s specialty oyaki, along with new drinks.
Announcement: New original fabric “AC-11” from ACME Furniture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ACME Furniture, operated by 株式会社ベイクルーズ, will release “AC-11,” an original fabric made with high-quality velvet, in October 2026.
Facts
To go on sale sequentially from October 2026
1P/254,100 yen
2P-S/342,100 yen
2P-L/392,700 yen
3P-S/429,000 yen
3P-L/459,800 yen
Established: July 22, 1977
Companies mentioned：株式会社ベイクルーズ、ACME Furniture、JOURNAL STANDARD FURNITURE、JETTY FEATHER SOFA、CORONADO SOFA、株式会社LADUREE JAPON、株式会社WILL WORKS、株式会社ル・プチメック、台灣貝肯士股份有限公司、Foodies USA, Inc.
【アロフト by マリオット東京銀座】Limited dining to brighten the Christmas season arrives
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アロフト by マリオット東京銀座, operated by マリオット・インターナショナル, will offer a limited-time Christmas menu from Dec. 1 through 25, 2026. The WAREHOUSE will serve dinner courses featuring colorful fruit and a lunch salad bar, while W XYZ Bar will offer limited-edition cocktails.
Facts
Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2026
Friday, Dec. 25
10,000 yen (tax and service charge included)
11,300 yen (tax and service charge included)
From 3,000 yen (tax and service charge included)
2,300 yen (tax and service charge included)
Companies mentioned：マリオット・インターナショナル、アロフト by マリオット東京銀座、The WAREHOUSE、W XYZ Bar、tablecheck
Room-service dinner in a junior suite: a Christmas stay plan to make a magical night for two
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ホテルニューオータニ大阪 is offering its Christmas stay plan, “Noël Miraculeux,” for a limited time from Dec. 1 through 25, 2026. The plan includes a room-service dinner, Champagne and a Christmas cake.
Facts
Stay period: December 1 (Tuesday)–25 (Friday), 2026
Red Dunes takes the crown! Latest results from “Street Fighter League EMEAA 2026”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Red Dunes won “Street Fighter League EMEAA 2026” and secured a place in the World Championship. Streaming information was also announced for Day 3 of “Street Fighter League AMERICAS 2026.”
Facts
EMEAA 2026
Oct. 24 Japan time
March 2027
AMERICAS 2026
Day 3
Nov. 7
8 a.m.
Companies mentioned：Red Dunes、Ninjas in Pyjamas、YESPOTS、GTW、CAPCOM eSports、YouTube、Twitch
Special collaboration between artist Taisei Miyakawa and アニメイト announced! A fair offering an exclusive bromide as a bonus will also begin on Saturday, April 10, 2027!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A special collaboration fair between Taisei Miyakawa and アニメイト will begin on April 10, 2027, with bromides given to customers who purchase eligible products.
【LINEヤフー】Launches “Agent i Biz,” an AI agent for businesses that supports day-to-day operations such as advertising and sales promotion
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
LINEヤフー has launched “Agent i Biz,” an AI agent for businesses that supports day-to-day operations such as advertising and sales promotion. The service connects with LINEヤフー’s proprietary big data to support market and customer analysis, advertising operations and more through chat.
【Free lectures・Limited to 100 participants】Leaders from across Japan gather at the former Hokkaido Government Office in Sapporo! “1st Hokkaido Dash Camp,” a next-generation business management conference, to be held Nov. 6
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Wiz and 株式会社サテライトオフィス will jointly host the “1st Hokkaido Dash Camp” on Nov. 6, 2026, at the former Hokkaido Government Office in Sapporo. The business conference aims to address regional disparities in generative AI adoption and promote regional revitalization. Attendance is limited to 100, and the lectures are free.
Facts
Generative AI adoption among businesses in Hokkaido stands at 27.8%
NOTIME, an unmanned secondhand clothing store launched in Shimokitazawa, to open in Oita City’s Mitsuyoshi district on Nov. 21｜A new secondhand shopping experience where you can browse without pressure, open 24 hours
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社AVEND will open NOTIME Oita store, an unmanned secondhand clothing shop operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in Mitsuyoshi, Oita City, Oita Prefecture, on Nov. 21, 2026.
Announcing the “HR Services to Watch” for October 2026: cross-boundary learning, visualizing strengths, career development, employee parenting support, balancing work and caregiving, and more
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社日本人材ニュース社 announced its “HR Services to Watch” for October 2026. The featured themes included cross-boundary learning, visualizing strengths, career development, parenting support and balancing work and caregiving. The companies featured were さとゆめ, メディアハウスホールディングス, Awarefy, ASOND, 共同印刷, ハイラブル, 企業変革創造, フォーバル・リアルストレート, フォーティエンスコンサルティング, ポピンズファミリーケア, キリンビバレッジ, エムステージ, ベネッセシニアサポート, オープン and 綜合キャリアトラスト.
【株式会社PILLAR】 Receives “Kurumin Certification” as a company supporting child-rearing
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社PILLAR has received “Kurumin Certification” from the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare after meeting the targets in its action plan developed under the Act on Advancement of Measures to Support Raising Next-Generation Children. The company has also been certified as a Health and Productivity Management Outstanding Organization since 2023 and promotes work-life balance support, including a 100% childcare leave uptake rate and support for men’s involvement in childcare.
Facts
Women’s childcare leave uptake rate: 100%
In 2026
Men’s childcare leave uptake rate in fiscal 2025: 88%
Celebrate, pray for and savor the harvest. “Shisui New Sake Festival 2026” brings together three breweries at 飯沼本家 on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2026, to unveil their new sake!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社飯沼本家 will hold “Shisui New Sake Festival 2026” on Dec. 5, 2026. The event will feature new sake from 3 nearby breweries, food vendors, stage events and more. Advance tickets are on sale at JRE MALLチケット.
【JPI Seminar】“Business Models and Contract Practices for Stadium and Arena Development and Operations: Sports Complexes and the Latest Trends in Europe and the U.S.” to be held Tuesday, Nov. 17
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社日本計画研究所 will hold a seminar on business models and contract practices for stadium and arena development and operations on Nov. 17, 2026, featuring attorney Shiro Kato of 長島・大野・常松法律事務所.
Facts
Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2026
13:30 - 15:30
Special rate: 18,500 yen (tax included)
1 person: ¥37,510 (tax included)
2nd person onward: ¥32,510 (tax included; same corporation and simultaneous application)
Up to 2 people: 11,000 yen (tax included / venue and livestream only / same attendance format)
[Omiya] A Christmas proposal in a chapel reserved exclusively and lit up for the occasion! Includes a lavish dinner course at a restaurant window-side table, with illuminations right before your eyes: “Chapel de Proposal — Christmas Plan 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ベストブライダル, which operates 大宮アートグレイス ウエディングシャトー／大宮璃宮, will offer a proposal plan exclusive to the Christmas season from December 2 to 27, 2026. The plans include either a chapel reserved exclusively for the occasion or a dinner course at a restaurant window-side table.
ORICO announces a multifunctional dock combining a dock and M.2 SSD case. Equipped with 8K/4K dual output, 10Gbps transfer, up to 8TB of expansion, 100W PD charging and gigabit LAN, it powerfully suppor
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ORICO has announced a multifunctional dock that combines a docking station and an M.2 SSD case. It supports mobile work with 8K/4K dual output, 10Gbps transfer, up to 8TB of expansion, 100W PD charging and gigabit LAN. Available for a limited time at ¥9,778, about 39% off the regular price of ¥15,980.
Miaoli County Central Library design unveiled, with NT$2.1 billion project to create a new landmark for reading in the mountain town
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
苗栗縣政府 is investing NT$2.1 billion in a project to build the county's central public library. The design concept is “Miaoli's Hills,” and the project is expected to be completed in year 119.
Taiwan-Philippines technology meeting deepens research cooperation and expands talent links
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 10th Taiwan-Philippines Joint Science and Technology Commission meeting at the vice-ministerial level was held in the Philippines. 國科會 announced that it will launch the 3rd phase of the “Health, Agriculture and Talent Training (HAT)” project next year and continue the “Taiwan-Philippines Sandwich Scholarship Program (SSP)” to deepen research cooperation and talent links.
Fukushima begins 25th discharge of tritium-containing wastewater; nuclear safety council says no impact on Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Nuclear Safety Commission said the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan began discharging its 25th batch of tritium-containing wastewater, which is expected to have no impact on the waters around Taiwan.
Facts
25th batch
Expected to take 19 days
Discharge of 7,800 tons
Total tritium activity of about 1.4 trillion becquerels
Discharge volume of about 7,852 cubic meters
Tritium activity of about 1.2 trillion becquerels
Sum of ratios was 0.14
Were 0.13, respectively
And 0.12
1,500 becquerels per liter
Total discharge volume of about 188,444 cubic meters
Total tritium activity of about 41.5 trillion becquerels
Bank of Korea warns chip exports could fall by US$100 billion if AI spending slows
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
韓國央行 warned that if major U.S. technology companies slow their AI capital spending next year, South Korea's semiconductor exports could fall by US$50 billion to US$100 billion, and GDP growth could decline by about 0.4 percentage points.
國泰世華銀 plans corporate stablecoin payment and settlement services, considering partnerships with VASP operators
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國泰世華銀 is actively developing stablecoin payment and settlement services, with plans to connect with leading domestic VASP operators to help corporate clients exchange stablecoins and credit funds in fiat currency through corporate online banking, reducing compliance and risk-control challenges.
CPBL releases free-agent service years; A-level players including Chen Chung-yu and Pan Chieh-kai draw attention
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 中華職棒聯盟 announced free-agent service years. 27 players meet the 9-year eligibility requirement, including 13 A-level players; all 5 players with 8 years of service are A-level. Chen Chung-yu and Pan Chieh-kai are attracting the most attention.
Switzerland steps up engagement with Pyongyang; foreign minister to visit North Korea for diplomatic office's official reopening
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis will visit North Korea this week to witness the official reopening of the diplomatic office in Pyongyang and hold talks with North Korean officials on bilateral consultations and security on the Korean Peninsula. He will then travel to Seoul for talks with South Korean officials.
Facts
(中央社, Zurich, 26th — compiled from wire reports)
Cassis (Ignazio Cassis) will begin his visit on the 29th
And when the diplomatic office officially opens on the 30th
The office has been operating since the 19th of this month
Nantou's Guoxing Township opens first public long-term care center, combining services with a health station to protect older residents' health
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Guoxing Township's first public long-term care facility, the Meilin Community-Based Integrated Long-Term Care Innovation Service Center, opened today in Nantou County. It combines a health station with a day care center and cost about NT$62.29 million in total.
Facts
The Meilin long-term care center cost NT$62,297,100 in total
宏偉 plans to list on the emerging stock market in November, banking on a wave of AI factory expansions; order backlog visibility extends to 3 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
宏偉電機 is expected to list on the emerging stock market in mid-November, benefiting from AI factory expansions and a wave of semiconductor plant construction. Demand for elevators with special specifications is rising, extending order backlog visibility to 3 years. Consolidated revenue reached NT$1.668 billion in 2025, while the gross margin rose to 44.88%.
Facts
Expected to list on the emerging stock market in mid-November
Order backlog visibility extended to 3 years
Shipments to semiconductor-related industries accounted for about 59%
宏偉's consolidated revenue in 2025 was NT$1.668 billion
The consolidated gross margin rose to 44.88%, from 41.89% in 2024
Cumulative net profit attributable to owners of the parent totaled NT$427 million
Earnings per share were NT$6.93
Consolidated revenue in the first half of this year was NT$1.016 billion
Up 7.4% year over year
The consolidated gross margin in the first half was 46.65%
Cumulative net profit attributable to owners of the parent totaled NT$349 million
Up 78.2% year over year
Cumulative earnings per share in the first half were NT$5.66
The gross margin on new elevators rose from 33% in 2024 to 40% in 2025
Reached 43% in the first half of 2026
New elevators accounted for about 62% of revenue in the first half
Maintenance and after-sales services accounted for 38%
Nearly 6,000 elevators were covered by maintenance services in the first 3 quarters of this year
The Taiwan dollar closed at 32.452 against the U.S. dollar in the Taipei foreign exchange market, gaining 5.6 cents, with trading volume reaching US$2.733 billion.
The ASEAN News Roundup for October 27, 2026 covers economic and financial developments across the region: Vietnam's e-commerce transaction value rose 22% year over year; Laos launched a US$5 million plan to speed up customs clearance; Singapore's digital economy is forecast to grow 8%, with generative AI adoption reaching 7 tenths; the Philippine central bank's benchmark rate could rise to 6%; Myanmar's rice exports to the Philippines surged 330%; Malaysia's September exports hit a record, marking 77 consecutive months of trade surpluses; Thailand's September exports reached a record high; Cambodia lowered its economic growth forecasts; and investment in Indonesian data centers is heating up.
Facts
Gross merchandise value reached 4,117 trillion Vietnamese dong
Up 22% year on year
74% of consumers prioritize product quality
Launched the second phase of a US$5 million competitiveness and trade program
Aims to cut border clearance time to about 2 hours
Exports could fall 7.3% in 2027
About US$734 million
Expected to grow 8% this year
Reached 39.6 billion Singapore dollars
Generative AI adoption reached 7 tenths
Original增撥200百萬瓦綠色能源
Raised the benchmark rate by half a percentage point to 5.5%
Benchmark rate seen rising to 6%
Export revenue of US$338 million
Rice exports to the Philippines rose 330% year over year
September exports rose 54.5% year over year
September exports surged to US$38.44 billion
A sharp 24% increase from the same period last year
Cut its economic growth forecasts for 2026 and 2027 to 4% and 4.8%, respectively
Yunlin complains disaster relief for crop losses is unfair; 農業部 says decisions are based on professional assessments of damage
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
農業部 said relief for crop losses caused by Typhoon Jangmi was determined based on damage assessments and expert meetings, responding to Yunlin County's complaints that the announced aid was unfair. It noted that crop losses currently exceed NT$260 million, with Yunlin County the hardest hit.
Typhoon Jangmi flattens Wufeng fragrant rice; Taichung City Government seeks aid
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Typhoon Jangmi caused severe lodging of fragrant rice in Wufeng, Taichung, with losses exceeding 6 tenths. The Taichung City Government's Agriculture Bureau will expedite damage assessments and seek central government relief for natural disasters.
Rima Zeidan overcomes career slump to win best actress in a miniseries, moved that her efforts were recognized
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Actor Rima Zeidan won the Golden Bell Award for Best Actress in a Miniseries for the Taiwanese drama The Sea of Intimacy, saying she was moved that her hard work had been recognized after going through a difficult period. The show also won the Best Miniseries award. Director Lu Ji-yuan and actors Li Ming-shun, Yusuke Fukuchi and Yu Tzu-yu attended the celebration.
Facts
Won 2 awards: Best Miniseries and Best Actress in a Miniseries
味全龍 won the Chinese Professional Baseball League championship, and financial industry partners including 台新新光金控 and 王道銀行 launched a range of limited-time offers and prize draws to celebrate.
Pingtung County elementary school teacher accused of bringing a knife to school; county government says school is investigating whether the teacher is unfit for the job
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 全國教育產業總工會 accused a resource-class teacher at a Pingtung County elementary school of bringing a knife onto campus, climbing through a window to enter a classroom and taking a student away without authorization. It called on the county government to activate school safety measures. The 屏東縣政府 said it had convened a school affairs meeting to investigate whether the teacher was unfit for the job.
Wang Yen-cheng tears up recalling Song Jiahao’s watch gift; meeting idol Nayeon left him with a tough choice
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese pitcher Wang Yen-cheng has returned home after ending his career in South Korea. He recalled being moved to tears when senior teammate Song Jiahao gave him a watch after his first start. A fan of TWICE, he said taking a photo with his idol Nayeon was unforgettable; when asked to choose between the 2 experiences, he let his manager field the question.
Foreign Ministry: China’s transnational repression goes beyond political intimidation; overseas offices to update responses in 3 areas
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Foreign Ministry said China’s transnational repression has expanded from political intimidation to digital surveillance, stalking and harassment, and suspected threats of violence. It has asked overseas offices to update their emergency response plans.
智原 joins forces with 三星 and 聯電 to win U.S. 2-nanometer cloud AI project
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
智原 announced that it had joined forces with partners including 三星 and 聯電 to win a cloud AI project for a U.S. customer using a 2-nanometer GAA process, with a total value of tens of millions of dollars, the largest project in the company’s history. It also reported that third-quarter revenue reached a record for the same period.
Facts
2-nanometer
Tens of millions of dollars
4-nanometer
First half of 2027
NT$3.664 billion
Up 10.6% quarter on quarter
Gross margin of 42.5%
Down 2.7 percentage points
Operating profit of NT$214 million
Down 20.8% quarter on quarter
Net profit attributable to the parent company of NT$279 million
Accused of scolding pan-green supporters, 柯志恩: I was recounting what was said, not criticizing them
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
柯志恩, the 國民黨 candidate for Kaohsiung mayor, faced controversy over her response to criticism from an elderly person. She clarified that she was recounting the conversation, not criticizing voters. 賴瑞隆, the 民進黨 candidate, said people should have the grace to accept criticism and listed Kaohsiung’s development achievements.
Facts
Kaohsiung’s progress and development over the past 30 years
Overseas stock fund performance this year: Asia-focused funds lead with returns of 47.5%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
According to 投信公司 figures through Oct. 21, Asia-focused stock funds posted an average year-to-date return of 47.5%, the best performance among overseas stock fund categories. Taiwan stocks led with a gain of 61.89%.
Taipei’s 興隆 fire brigade station opens, upgrading emergency response in Wenshan District
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台北市消防局’s 興隆 fire brigade station has opened in Wenshan District. The 6-story green building is intended to improve local fire and emergency medical response and shorten response times.
Finance Ministry holds first awards for quality liquor, with 15 Taiwan-certified products selected
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 財政部 held its first awards under the Quality Liquor Certification System Marketing and Promotion Awards, selecting 13 certified businesses, 15 liquor products and 3 businesses that won international competitions. It awarded prizes of NT$30,000 to NT$100,000 to support industry development.
Facts
15 liquor products
13 certified businesses
3 businesses that helped certified liquor products shine on the international stage
Mbappé’s remarks about a face-swap meme accused of insulting China; 央視 halts sports broadcasts and pulls ads
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
皇家馬德里 star Mbappé sparked controversy after remarks about his face being edited onto an image of Mao Zedong. 央視 has halted broadcasts of related events and pulled advertisements, while 小紅書 has muted his account.
Facts
The partnership expired and ended on Dec. 31, 2024
Chiang Wan-an campaign launches supporter jacket, with preorders opening at noon on Oct. 28
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chiang Wan-an’s campaign announced that preorders for the Taipei Encore supporter jacket will open at 12 noon on Oct. 28. The jacket is priced at NT$1,800, with 300 available. The first batch is expected to ship on Nov. 16. The campaign also urged supporters to watch for counterfeits and said it had reported the matter to police.
Golden Bell Awards 61 concludes successfully after the storm; Yang Kuei-mei wins best actress and draws the ceremony’s highest drama rating
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 61st Golden Bell Awards concluded successfully after the typhoon. 三立電視 and 公共電視 broadcast the ceremony simultaneously, drawing high ratings. When Yang Kuei-mei won the Best Actress in a Drama Program award, the drama category’s rating peaked at 4.85. New-media livestreams drew about 19 million views in total.
Facts
The 61st Golden Bell Awards
Total rating reached 4.37
Total audience reach was nearly 1.95 million
Peak-minute rating surged to 3.22
Peak-minute rating soared to 4.85
About 19 million total views accumulated
The program and drama ceremony livestreams each drew 1.2 million views
National security official: Beijing operating on multiple fronts, raising election interference against Taiwan to military-level psychological intimidation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A national security official said Chinese Communist Party state media had accused the 民進黨 of using underground betting to influence elections, a familiar information-warfare tactic. Beijing is operating on multiple fronts to intensify interference in Taiwan’s democratic processes, and its election interference against Taiwan has escalated to “military-level” psychological intimidation, the official said, urging the public to remain highly vigilant.
New Taipei prosecutors crack down on election betting ahead of vote, arrest 2 more suspects; 1 held incommunicado
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
New Taipei prosecutors and police uncovered a gambling ring suspected of operating an offshore betting website that offered wagers on the results of the 115年 nine-in-one elections. Prosecutors carried out another raid on Oct. 23 and arrested two suspects surnamed Chou and Cheng. Chou was suspected of serious offenses under the Public Officials Election and Recall Act, the Criminal Code’s gambling provisions and the Money Laundering Control Act. A court approved prosecutors’ request to detain him and prohibit visits. Cheng was released on bail of NT$30,000.
Facts
115 Local Public Officials Election
Directed operations 3 times
Court approves detention and incommunicado custody for 3 people
Taiwanese tourist dies in Lake Kawaguchi hotel case in Japan; woman surnamed Yang was not a last-minute tour addition
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In the case of the Taiwanese traveler who died in Lake Kawaguchi, media reports said the suspected perpetrator, a woman surnamed Yang, had joined the tour at the last minute. The tour operator clarified that she had forgotten her passport, took a later flight and met up with the group, and had not signed up at the last minute. The 觀光署 said regulations do not prohibit joining a tour after it has begun, but requirements on signing contracts, insurance and passenger-list management must be followed.
力成: AI to be key growth driver in fourth quarter, with pricing benefits boosting profits
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
力成 expects AI applications to continue driving growth in the fourth quarter, with strong DRAM and NAND demand and pricing benefits supporting further increases in revenue and profit. Third-quarter results hit a quarterly record, and profit attributable to owners of the parent rose nearly 70% year on year.
Facts
Third-quarter consolidated revenue of NT$25.334 billion
Up 9.6% quarter on quarter
Up 26.9% year on year
Third-quarter consolidated gross margin of 24%
Third-quarter operating profit of NT$4.472 billion
Q3 net profit attributable to owners of the parent was NT$2.612 billion
Up 17.7% from the previous quarter
Up 69.8% year over year
Q3 earnings per share were NT$3.55
Consolidated revenue for the first 3 quarters totaled NT$69.764 billion
Up 30.3% year over year
Operating profit for the first 3 quarters was NT$10.764 billion
After-tax profit for the first 3 quarters totaled NT$6.675 billion
Taiwan stocks fell 1069 points last week; listed companies’ total market value narrowly held above NT$150 trillion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan stocks traded for only 4 days last week because of typhoon days off. The Taiwan Stock Exchange Capitalization Weighted Stock Index closed at 46041.43 points, down 1069.83 points for the week. The total market value of listed companies was NT$150.7153 trillion, down about NT$3.46 trillion from the previous week and narrowly holding above the NT$150 trillion mark.
Facts
Down 1069.83 points for the week
Or 2.27%
Closed at 46041.43 points
Total market value of NT$150.7153 trillion
Down about NT$3.46 trillion
Cement stocks rose 1.55%
Oil, electricity and gas stocks fell 12.04%
Original成交金額3兆1467億元
Electronic components: NT$942.126 billion
Accounted for 29.94% of the total trading value of all listed stocks
國研院 and 汎銓科技 achieve breakthrough in EUV photoresist analysis technology
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國研院’s 國儀中心 partnered with 汎銓科技 to strengthen wafer nanostructures using atomic layer deposition (ALD) coating technology, overcoming inspection and analysis bottlenecks following high numerical aperture extreme ultraviolet (High-NA EUV) lithography. The partnership has helped 汎銓科技 enter the supply chains of the world’s top 5 semiconductor equipment makers and manufacturers, and advance verification technology for FAB-like production lines.
A poll found President Lai Ching-te’s trust rating at 53% and approval of his administration at 52.2%, the highest since April 2025. Scholars said steady governance, strong economic development and plans to expand social welfare programs were key supporting factors.
Facts
The president’s trust rating was 53%
Overall approval of the administration was 52.2%
Taiwan’s economic growth rate this year forecast to reach as high as 12%
Construction begins on Pingtung Chaoqing Library Branch youth entrepreneurship space; completion expected in year 117
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Construction began today on 屏東縣立圖書館’s Chaoqing Library Branch and youth innovation space, with a total investment of NT$470 million. The project is expected to be completed by the end of ROC year 117.
Presidential Cup 3-on-3 basketball finals come to Ketagalan Boulevard; wheelchair players thrilled by first-ever para division
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Presidential Cup 3-on-3 basketball national finals will be held this weekend on Ketagalan Boulevard, with 160 teams qualifying. New this year are a para division (wheelchair basketball) and a senior division, promoting equality in sports. Para-division player Lin Po-hsun said he was thrilled to compete on Ketagalan Boulevard for the first time.
Facts
160 teams from across the country
999 teams in total took part
More than 4,500 athletes participated
Qualifying rounds held in 22 cities and counties nationwide
9 teams nationwide registered to compete
Group-stage matches will begin on the first day, Oct. 31
Buying in tech stocks rebounds; Nikkei closes up more than 1,000 points
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Anthropic’s filing of IPO application documents revived AI trading, and Asian tech stocks followed US markets higher, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 closing up more than 1,000 points.
Three major institutional investors bought a net NT$3.142 billion in Taiwan stocks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan stocks closed at 46096.23 points today, with the three major institutional investors recording combined net buying of NT$3.142 billion. Investment trusts bought a net NT$23.645 billion, while dealers and foreign and mainland Chinese investors were net sellers.
Facts
Net buying of NT$3.142 billion
Rose 54.8 points
Closed at 46096.23 points
Trading value of NT$976.547 billion
Dealers were net sellers of NT$12.399 billion
Investment trusts were net buyers of NT$23.645 billion
Foreign and mainland Chinese investors were net sellers of NT$8.104 billion
Typhoon 薔琵 causes damage; 中華郵政 extends premium payment deadlines and offers 1-year grace period for disaster-affected mortgage borrowers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中華郵政 announced measures in response to damage from Typhoon 薔琵, including expedited life insurance claims, extended premium payment deadlines and interest-free policy loans. Disaster-affected mortgage borrowers may also apply for a 1-year grace period and small repair loans.
Foreign investors sold NT$235.6 billion in Taiwan stocks last week, heavily dumping foundry shares
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Foreign investors traded for only 4 days last week because of typhoon days off, and slashed their Taiwan stock holdings by NT$235.625 billion. They were major net sellers of foundry stocks such as 力積電, 台積電 and 聯電. Their net sales from the start of this year through Oct. 22 totaled NT$2.1959 trillion.
AI investment expansion hits bottleneck; central bank warns financing risks could amplify market volatility
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The central bank forecast Taiwan’s economic growth at 11.48% this year, but warned that major U.S. cloud service providers (CSPs) face bottlenecks as they expand capital spending. If returns on AI investment fall short of expectations, asset revaluations and credit risks could amplify volatility in financial markets.
U.S. judge rules dismissal of Trump rival’s daughter unlawful, orders her reinstatement
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A U.S. judge ruled that the dismissal of former federal prosecutor Maurene Comey was unlawful and ordered her reinstatement. Comey, the daughter of former FBI director James Comey, alleged that her dismissal was related to her political views.
華碩: Commercial PC prices expected to rise another 1-tenth in second half; prices and volume to continue rising next year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
華碩 said commercial PC prices are expected to rise about 10% in the second half due to higher costs for key components, with prices and volume continuing to rise next year. It also discussed the launch of new products in cooperation with 英特爾 and shortages of 輝達 AI laptops.
Facts
Up nearly 3-tenths
Rise another approximately 10%
A slight increase of less than 5% each quarter
Overall, expected to rise nearly 10%
Still room for slight growth of more than 5%
Budget increase of 3 to 4 tenths
Year-over-year shipment growth of more than 2-tenths
64GB and 128GB memory specifications
Expected to arrive in Taiwan in stages starting in late October
Inaugural marine technology and unmanned vehicle exhibition to open in Tainan on 11/3, with live demonstrations in Anping
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The inaugural “Taiwan Marine Technology and Unmanned Vehicle Exhibition” will be held in Tainan from Nov. 3 to 5, with live demonstrations on the 2nd. 湛翔智, chairman of 水下噪音協會, said the exhibition brings together 88 participating organizations and aims to bridge policy and industry, connect with U.S. and allied companies, and strengthen cooperation on trusted supply chains.
Facts
Nov. 3 to 5
88 participating organizations
66 from Taiwan
22 from overseas
A total of 17 related U.S. organizations are participating
A total of 9 domestic and international companies are participating
Tractor-trailer collides with scooter in Changhua City; married couple found beneath vehicle, both dead
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A crash occurred near the intersection of Zhangshui Road and Zhanglu Road in Changhua City this morning. A woman surnamed Wu was riding a scooter with her husband, surnamed Hsu, when it collided with a tractor-trailer. Hsu died at the scene, and Wu later died in hospital.
Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control show that since the “Health Coin” program began on Oct. 1, it has encouraged people aged 18 and above to receive publicly funded and self-paid flu, COVID-19 and pneumococcal vaccines, with overall increases of about 11% to 35%. Pneumococcal vaccinations reached 2.4 to 3.5 times the level before the policy took effect.
Facts
Increase of about 11% to 35% from the same period last year
Pneumococcal vaccinations at about 2.4 to 3.5 times the previous level
Recipients can receive 450, 900 and 600 Health Coins, respectively
A cumulative 2.725 million publicly funded flu vaccine doses administered
There were also 288,000 self-paid doses
Increases of about 7% and 70%, respectively
A cumulative 1.176 million publicly funded COVID-19 vaccine doses administered
188 self-paid doses
Increase of about 35% to 58%
Cumulative administrations of publicly funded and self-paid vaccines were 104,000 and 3,000, respectively
3.5 times and 2.4 times the total number of vaccinations in the 26 days before the policy took effect
Kaohsiung council candidate 張騏晟 released on bail in alleged bribery case; prosecutors’ appeal rejected
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kaohsiung City council candidate 張騏晟 was released on NT$2 million bail over alleged bribery, while his father and older brother were detained. The Qiaotou District Prosecutors Office appealed the decisions concerning 張騏晟, his father and his brother, but the Kaohsiung High Court Branch rejected all the appeals.
Facts
Released on NT$2 million bail
Pastry gift boxes worth more than 490 yuan at retail
At least 10 eligible voters in the constituency
Released on bail ranging from NT$100,000 to NT$300,000
The 雲林地檢署 investigated the assault on Lin Yimin, a representative of Baozhong Township, and indicted 11 people today. A man surnamed Chen, angered by budget cuts, allegedly enlisted friends to enter Lin’s residence and assault him.
Chiang Wan-an hopes to seek advice on city governance; Ko Wen-je says to stay calm and proceed steadily
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Asked about Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an’s wish to seek advice on city governance from Ko Wen-je, founding chairman of the Taiwan People’s Party, Ko said incumbents have an advantage and advised him to stay calm and proceed steadily. Ko also responded to questions from 民進黨 candidate Shen Po-yang about the “stitching together” issue on Civic Boulevard, and said former mayor Huang Ta-chou had the best record of governance among Taipei’s mayors.
Facts
Key News of the 2026 Nine-in-One Elections
Related measures during the Ko city government’s 109th year
Asked for his views on the Taipei mayoral debate to be held on the 31st
Shen Po-yang proposes water culture revival movement; Taipei City Government says it proposed the idea in 2020 and achieved results
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
民進黨 Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang proposed a “Taipei Water Culture Revival Movement” platform. The Taipei City Public Works Department responded that the city government had proposed the same idea in 2020 and achieved concrete results, including the restoration of Huanggang Creek and the Tamsui River waterfront, as well as an increase in the rate of sewage connections.