AICX Association releases “Practical Guide to AI Utilization in Manufacturing,” showing how manufacturers can turn AI use into customer value
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人AICX協会 has released the “Practical Guide to AI Utilization in Manufacturing,” designed to help manufacturers turn AI use into customer value. Using a 4-quadrant framework, a 5-level maturity model and a 7-step process structure, the guide identifies the current state of AI implementation in manufacturing and outlines next steps.
Facts
Publication date and edition: October 2026, Version 1.0
How can AI use take root on the manufacturing floor? Report on “AX Summit for ものづくり” released
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人AICX協会 has released a report on “AX Summit for ものづくり,” held on October 9, 2026. The report covers key topics from 10 sessions featuring speakers from Dai Nippon Printing, Lion, Sony, Exedy, Murata Manufacturing, Fujitsu, Lightblue, WingArc1st, Shinmei Kogyo and others, as well as survey findings on challenges in manufacturing AI use (126 respondents).
Facts
All 10 sessions
Shortage of personnel to lead initiatives and on-site staff” was the top concern at 45.2%
Security, personal information and confidential information” at 40.5%
Necessary data is not in place” at 39.7%
126 respondents
47.6% of respondents work in manufacturing
88.9% of respondents were satisfied
81.7% said it was useful for addressing business and organizational challenges
[Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts] Addressing contemporary challenges through traditional materials and techniques. Special exhibitions “Tradition Meets Today #7” and “How Far Can Materials and Techniques Go?” running through 12/28
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The special exhibition “Tradition Meets Today #7” and a collaborative exhibition with 京都市産業技術研究所, “How Far Can Materials and Techniques Go?”, are running at the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts through December 28, 2026. The exhibitions showcase products and production processes from 12 businesses and introduce how traditional techniques are being applied in modern society.
Facts
A total of 12 participating businesses
More than 100,000 pattern designs preserved for stage costumes
Through December 28, 2026 (Monday)
General admission: ¥500
Elementary, junior high and high school students and technical college students: 400 yen
74 traditional craft categories in Kyoto City
Companies mentioned：株式会社京都産業振興センター、京都市産業技術研究所、清原織物、KYOTO Leather、もとやま畳店、Weaving the Future、山元染工場、合同会社COCOO、北山杉共創プロジェクト Ju-Raku-So、辻徳、京都みす平、株式会社杣長、株式会社佐藤喜代松商店、株式会社陶葊
“ロードナイン” adds new area “影の森” and carries out world and server transfers
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
スマイルゲート announced that it will add the new area “影の森” to the MMORPG “ロードナイン” and carry out world and server transfers. A limited-time Halloween event dungeon will also be available.
ケイトステージラッシュ一宮店 added 2 options for pre-treatment care for eyelash perms, “Long-Lasting Perm Plus Care” and “Eye Care Shampoo,” effective October 1, 2026.
Facts
From Oct. 1, 2026
Perm Longevity Plus Care: ¥550
Eye Care Shampoo (listed on ホットペッパービューティー as “Eye Shampoo”): ¥550
[Nasu-Shiobara, Tochigi] Autumn 20% off at glampark 赤沢温泉. Stay plans include local BBQ, original ryokan cuisine and room-only stays
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The glamping brand “glampark,” operated by サステナブルホールディングス株式会社, is offering its “AUTUMN SALE” at “glampark 赤沢温泉” in Nasu-Shiobara, Tochigi Prefecture, with 20% off adult rates. The offer runs from October 15, 2026, through January 31, 2027, with 3 plans available: local BBQ, original ryokan cuisine and room-only stays.
“和サイ―” sweets combining acai and Japanese ingredients, “Acai Ice Monaka Sandwich” and “Fluffy Chewy Dumplings in Acai Zenzai-Style Soup,” arrive at Kappa Sushi for a limited time starting Friday, November 6!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社フルッタフルッタ will launch 2 limited-time sweets from its “和サイ―” series, combining acai and Japanese ingredients, at Kappa Sushi. Its standard mini acai bowl will also be available.
Brooks Brothers launches its highest-end label, “Brooks Brothers Golden Fleece.”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ブルックス ブラザーズ ジャパン is launching the brand’s highest-end label, “Brooks Brothers Golden Fleece,” with sales beginning November 1 at its official online store and major retail locations.
Facts
For more than 2 centuries
Founded in Scotland in 1822
94% wool
6% cashmere
53% cashmere
25% wool
22% mohair
Introduced in the United States in 1910
By the 1920s
90% wool
10% cashmere
Super130's
100% wool
Ultra-lightweight at 20 denier
93% goose down
Feathers: 7%
180g used
100% cashmere
Companies mentioned：株式会社ブルックス ブラザーズ ジャパン、デヴィッド・ジョン・アンダーソン社、REDA社、コロンボ社、Tallia di Delfino、ロロ・ピアーナ社、RING JACKET MEISTER、リングヂャケット、IGARASHI TROUSERS、五十嵐トラウザーズ
“Angel Hapi-Fuwa Mascot Vol. 1” from サンリオキャラクターズ goes on sale at むにゅぐるみパティオ stores and the official online store starting Thursday, October 29
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
むにゅぐるみパティオ, operated by 株式会社KThingS, will begin selling “Angel Hapi-Fuwa Mascot Vol. 1” from サンリオキャラクターズ at its stores and online starting October 29. Each item is priced at 1,430 yen (tax included).
SaaS comparison site BOXIL announces winners of the BOXIL REVIEW AWARD Autumn 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Originalスマートキャンプ株式会社は、SaaS比較サイト「BOXIL」において、2026年4月1日から9月30日までのユーザー口コミをもとに優れたSaaSを表彰する「BOXIL REVIEW AWARD Autumn 2026」の受賞サービスを発表した。グランプリは「mソナー」（ユーソナー株式会社）が受賞し、計36サービスがカテゴリ別No.1として選出された。
Handball: Golden Cup matchups and schedule decided
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
公益財団法人日本ハンドボール協会 has decided the matchups and schedule for the Golden Cup 2026, to be held on December 18 and 19, 2026. Four men's teams and 4 women's teams will compete. The semifinals will be held on the 18th and the final on the 19th at the Komazawa Olympic Park General Sports Ground Gymnasium. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale November 7.
Official pop-up store for the hugely popular horror game Five Nights at Freddy's to open for a limited time at TOKYO Solamachi and INFOLENS GEEK SHOP池袋パルコ店!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
インフォレンズ株式会社 announced that an official pop-up store for the horror game Five Nights at Freddy's will open for a limited time at TOKYO Solamachi (November 3–17, 2026) and INFOLENS GEEK SHOP池袋パルコ店 (January 8–24, 2027).
Free seminar for business leaders and development team managers: “Implementing Specification-Driven Development in Practice: Lessons from Failures and Successes at Raks, Atrae, and Algoage”
A second Crane Game Super store is opening at エブリデイ行田店, home to the world's largest number of crane game machines! The entire second floor will transform into “Crane Game Super” on Friday, October 30!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The second floor of エブリデイ行田店, a crane game specialty store operated by 株式会社東洋, will open as “Crane Game Super” starting October 30, creating an entertainment space where visitors can win daily necessities.
SUNCUT®, the sunscreen that never lets you tan, conducts a beach cleanup with windsurfer Rina Niijima at Zaimokuza Beach in Kamakura on October 22 as part of its sustainability initiatives
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KOSÉ Cosmeport conducted a beach cleanup at Zaimokuza Beach in Kamakura on October 22 as part of the sustainability initiatives for its sunscreen brand SUNCUT®, with windsurfer Rina Niijima and 29 employees taking part.
Wins Audience Choice Award at international automotive technology conference CARES Americas 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Nippon Paint Automotive Coatings (NPAC) won the Audience Choice Award at the international automotive technology conference CARES Americas 2026, held in the United States. The in-mold coating technology it presented jointly with 内浜化成株式会社 features an approximately 75% reduction in CO₂ emissions, zero VOC emissions, and scratch recovery.
[Tokai Electronics] In-person seminar in Shinagawa on November 26 | Experience automated roll calls and get advice in person
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
東海電子株式会社 will hold an in-person seminar on automated roll calls in Shinagawa on November 26, 2026, offering hands-on equipment demonstrations and consultations on implementation.
“Set-It-and-Forget-It Rice Cooker Recipes: 0 Minutes of Work After You Get Home!” Goes on Sale Wednesday, October 28, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ワニブックス released “Set-It-and-Forget-It Rice Cooker Recipes: 0 Minutes of Work After You Get Home!” by 炊飯系男子 (Rice Boy) on October 28, 2026. The book features 61 recipes that can be completed in 3 steps—preparation, cooking, and finishing—and includes popular dishes that have garnered high view counts on social media.
[Over 2.2 million YouTube views] “Gin's Green Onion Oil,” which lets you recreate the legendary “Ginji Fried Rice” supervised by Don Decorte's Ginji Watanabe at home, launches Saturday, November 7!
[Chiyoda] Second collaboration between Sanrio Characters and スパットシューズ sneakers launches! Available at select stores, including Shoe Plaza, and the official online shop kutsu.com.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社チヨダ will release the second collaboration sneaker collection between Sanrio Characters and スパットシューズ starting October 28. The collection features 4 designs for juniors and is priced at 6,490 yen (tax included).
Facts
On sale starting Wednesday, October 28
4 designs for juniors
¥6,490 (tax included)
The series has reached cumulative sales of 5 million pairs*
SBI損保 holds traffic safety class for children in conjunction with the autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SBI Insurance Co., Ltd. cooperated with the “Learn to Ride a Bicycle in 30 Minutes” class held at Komazawa University and organized by 株式会社ビタミンアイファクトリー, conducting a traffic safety class for children in conjunction with the autumn National Traffic Safety Campaign.
An up-and-coming idol group ahead of its debut launches its first regular radio show on FM AICHI in October! “Shunkan Renai: ‘Love Can’t Be Saved.’” airs every Thursday at 26:00!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FM AICHI will launch a new radio program by the 4-member female idol group “瞬間恋愛-SHUNREN-” in October 2026. Titled “瞬間恋愛の「恋は、保存できない。」,” it will air late every Thursday.
Merchandise featuring newly drawn illustrations themed around “black suits” from “都市伝説解体センター” will debut at “AGF2026”! Advance sales confirmed at the Chugai Mining booth [Y-23]!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Chugai Mining will hold advance sales of merchandise featuring newly drawn illustrations from “都市伝説解体センター” at its booth [Y-23] during Animate Girls Festival 2026, taking place Nov. 7–8, 2026.
Facts
Saturday, November 7, 2026–Sunday, November 8
Original中外鉱業ブース[Y-23]
Original1会計3,000円(税込)
5 types in total
Price: 2,310 yen (tax included)
Original販売価格：1個 660円(税込)
1 set [5 pieces]: 3,300 yen (tax included)
Original販売価格：1個 550円(税込)
1 set [5 pieces]: 2,750 yen (tax included)
Price: 1,100 yen (tax included)
Sale price: ¥3,850 (tax included)
Companies mentioned：中外鉱業株式会社、中外鉱業コンテンツ部、Chugaionline、SHUEISHA、SHUEISHA GAMES
Rice porridge made with “Hon-dori Dashi,” which draws out the rich umami of domestically raised mature chickens. Enjoy hearty chunks of ingredients and chewy barley. Hon-dori Dashi Rice Porridge: “Chicken and Shredded Ginger Wellness Porridge” and “Spicy Scallop and Shiitake Porridge.” New release exclusively online on Oct. 28.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
S&B Foods will launch 2 new varieties of “Hon-dori Dashi Rice Porridge,” made with “Hon-dori Dashi” that brings out the umami of domestically raised mature chickens, exclusively online starting Oct. 28.
First store in Toyohashi! Male customer visits have increased about 5 times※4. Aderans’ eyebrow specialty salon, “BeauStage Eyebrow Salon Toyohashi,” opens Thursday, Oct. 29.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アデランス will open a Toyohashi location of its eyebrow specialty salon, “BeauStage Eyebrow Salon,” on Oct. 29. It will be the company’s 5th store in Aichi Prefecture and its first in Toyohashi.
Facts
Eyebrow waxing and styling from 4,200 yen, including tax※1
More than 158,000※2 new customers have visited our salons nationwide
The repeat-visit rate exceeds 70%※3
The 5th store in Aichi Prefecture
The network has expanded to 63 stores nationwide, including the Toyohashi location
SIXPAD joins ネイルウェルビーイング協会: What is the relationship between nail health and walking function? ネイルウェルビーイング協会 publishes a discussion article featuring a dermatologist and SIXPAD on preventing frailty from the feet up
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社MTG’s training brand SIXPAD has joined ネイルウェルビーイング協会 to carry out educational initiatives on the relationship between nail health and walking function. A discussion featuring a dermatologist and SIXPAD representatives has been published on the association’s website.
[ホテル椿山荘東京] A Tokyo stay exploring the world of film and the garden’s 7 seasons. From Nov. 18, a stay plan including tickets to the Harry Potter Studio Tour Tokyo, with taxi transportation.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ホテル椿山荘東京 will begin sales on Nov. 18, 2026, of a stay plan that includes tickets to Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo.
A new way to enjoy acai with a Japanese twist: “Wasaii”! Introducing “Acai Zenzai-Style Dessert with Fluffy, Chewy Dumplings,” featuring acai ice cream and sweet red bean paste topped with fluffy, chewy dumplings and vanilla ice cream, plus an “Acai Ice Cream Monaka Sandwich”!
“KIRINK” launches Oct. 28 as a new owned media platform sharing “the next Kirin”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
キリンホールディングス株式会社 launched “KIRINK,” a new owned media platform sharing the future envisioned in its long-term management plan “Innovate2035!,” on Oct. 28, 2026. It aims to integrate existing media and build shared understanding inside and outside the company.
Decarbonization solutions for heat, which accounts for about 60% of industrial energy consumption, will gather at the newly established Thermal Energy Expo. Western Japan’s largest-scale*¹ “SMART ENERGY WEEK [Kansai]” will be held at INTEX Osaka from Nov. 18–20.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RX Japan合同会社 will hold the 14th SMART ENERGY WEEK [Kansai] at INTEX Osaka from Nov. 18–20, 2026, bringing together decarbonization solutions, including the newly established Thermal Energy Expo.
Facts
Original2026年11月18日（水）～20日（金）の3日間
The nation’s highest number of manufacturing establishments, at 18,481
With 446,661 employees, it ranks 2nd nationally, after Aichi Prefecture
Osaka Prefecture has about 18,000 manufacturing establishments
Original東大阪市だけでも5,564事業所と工場密度は全国1位
Participation is mandatory for businesses whose direct CO2 emissions averaged 100,000 tons or more over the 3 fiscal years through the previous fiscal year
Recommended by two-time consecutive Olympic gold medalist Yuto Horigome! An extraordinary novel that transcends status and convention, bringing together royalty and skateboarding:『ポーザー・プリンセス』, on sale November 25 from 小学館!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
小学館 will release『ポーザー・プリンセス』, a novel depicting an exchange between a member of the royal family and a young skateboarder, on November 25. It is recommended by Olympic gold medalist Yuto Horigome.
[DMMオンラインクリニック] Survey on AGA patients finds that more than half are in their 40s and 50s, the “middle-aged generation”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
DMMオンラインクリニック, operated by 合同会社DMM.com, surveyed AGA patients and found that more than half were in their 40s and 50s. It also found that male AGA treatments increased 130% year on year, with the growth rate rising with age.
Facts
3 million consultations
April 2022–July 2026
53.4% of the total
Because I don't have time to visit a clinic (28.6%)
『銀のネギ油』, supervised by ドンデコルテ's Watanabe Ginji, launches November 7 (Saturday)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
『銀のネギ油』, an all-purpose seasoning supervised by ドンデコルテ's Watanabe Ginji, will go on sale November 7, 2026. With the cooperation of 太田油脂株式会, the product recreates homemade scallion oil without coloring agents or other additives.
Voice actors from『Re:ゼロから始める異世界生活』and『【推しの子】』to appear at “Anime X Game Festival 2026”! “KADOKAWA SHOP” will also exhibit a wide range of new products from popular works!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社KADOKAWA will hold special stages for『Re:ゼロから始める異世界生活』and『【推しの子】』and exhibit “KADOKAWA SHOP” at “Anime X Game Festival 2026,” to be held in South Korea in December 2026.
Teppanyaki okonomiyaki restaurant ぷれじでんと千房 to begin limited-quantity advance sales of tickets for special year-end and New Year courses celebrating the flavors of the seasons on Sunday, November 1!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
千房株式会社 will begin selling advance tickets on November 1 for special year-end and New Year courses at its premium teppanyaki brand ぷれじでんと千房. Tickets cost 12,000 yen, and the courses will be available from December 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027.
Facts
Original前売りチケットは1枚12,000円（税込・サービス料込）
In-store price: 14,000 yen (tax included, service charge excluded)
15,400 yen including the 10% service charge
Enjoy it for 3,400 yen less
9 items in total
Participating locations: all 6 ぷれじでんと千房 restaurants
For anniversaries and birthdays celebrated in a Japanese garden in Kamakura: Kamakura wagyu restaurant “Sasho” begins offering a fall-only matsutake course
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kamakura wagyu restaurant “Sasho” will begin offering a fall-only course featuring a tasting of matsutake mushrooms, Kobe beef and Hayama beef on October 10, 2026.
株式会社COTEN begins advance sales of 6 types of 10th-anniversary commemorative goods. “CREW Port Festival” event to be held in December
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社COTEN will begin advance sales of 6 types of original goods commemorating its 10th anniversary on October 23, 2026, and will hold “CREW Port Festival” on December 3 of the same year.
Demonstration of vending machine equipped with next-generation solar cells completed; approximately ４５％ energy savings and GHG emissions reduction confirmed
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Suntory Holdings and ＰＸＰ社 have completed a demonstration of vending machines equipped with next-generation solar cells in Sagamihara City, confirming annual energy savings and GHG emissions reductions of approximately ４５％. The same model is scheduled to be installed at the international horticultural exposition in Yokohama.
Interview with QNX Japan on the forefront of robot operating systems supporting “safe physical AI” published by “Physical AI Frontier”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社キャンパスクリエイト has published an interview with QNX Japan on its web media outlet “Physical AI Frontier.” Drawing on survey data from 1,000 developers in 7 countries, the article explains how Japanese developers prioritize safety certification and regulatory compliance, as well as the technical advantages of the two-layer separation architecture using QNX Hypervisor.
Sponsors the sustainability activities showcase “SUNTORY GREEN GO ROUND” at the “2027 International Horticultural Expo (GREEN×EXPO 2027)”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
サントリーグループ will sponsor the sustainability activities showcase “SUNTORY GREEN GO ROUND” at the “2027 International Horticultural Expo (GREEN×EXPO 2027),” to be held in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, from March 19 to September 26, 2027. The showcase will introduce initiatives under 3 themes: water resources, next-generation energy, and agricultural solutions. The group will also install and maintain beverage vending machines inside and outside the venue.
Madoka Oishi’s 35th-anniversary song “行き暮れて (Yukikurete)” goes on sale today, Wednesday, October 28. New music video released featuring scenes of Hakodate, where the song is set! 27 previously unreleased music videos of past songs also released all at once!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Enka singer 大石まどか released her 35th-anniversary song “行き暮れて” and simultaneously unveiled a new music video featuring scenes of Hakodate, along with 27 previously unreleased music videos.
[JPI Seminar] “The Ministry of Defense’s next-generation telecommunications and cybersecurity policies for ‘new ways of fighting’—building a new defense communications infrastructure and strengthening cyber defense capabilities” to be held on November 19 (Thursday)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
日本計画研究所 will hold a seminar on the Ministry of Defense’s next-generation telecommunications and cybersecurity policies for “new ways of fighting” on November 19, featuring 荒心平, Director of the Cyber Infrastructure Division in the Defense Planning and Programming Department of the Ministry of Defense.
Give even small shops a distinctive brand identity. “STORE A RAP” service launches to transform store design for premises of 50㎡ or less
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Spacewasp has launched “STORE A RAP,” a store-design service for small premises of 50㎡ or less. Combining AI, proprietary design and manufacturing systems, plant-based materials, and 3D printing technology, the service supports projects from concept through construction.
関西エアポート神戸株式会社 will hold the “Sky Day Event 2026” at Kobe Airport on November 29, 2026. Activities will include booths by airlines serving the airport, workshops, and an air traffic control tower tour. A quiz will also be held in coordination with the Port Liner Festival to mark the 20th anniversary of Kobe Airport’s opening.
Survey on “Using AI in job hunting.” The usage rate exceeds half, reaching 75% among people in their 20s and 50% among those in their 50s. Common uses include “self-analysis” and “editing and proofreading application documents.” Some respondents, however, voiced concern about inaccurate information being generated.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey conducted on 『エン転職』, operated by エン株式会社, found that 52% of people use AI in their job search, including 75% of people in their 20s and 50% of those in their 50s. The main uses were self-analysis and editing and proofreading application documents, and ChatGPT was the most widely used. Some respondents, however, expressed concern about inaccurate information being generated.
Facts
52% said they “use it”
The highest rate was among people in their 20s, at 75%
[For the real estate industry] How do you send mass emails? A must-see for companies using email distribution services. “Order Mail” automatically personalizes the recipient’s name and a short message, sending 1 email per 1 company. Free trial now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社シクミ has launched a free trial of “Order Mail,” an email distribution tool for the real estate industry. The tool automatically personalizes recipient names and a short message using an Excel list, and can send emails individually from sales representatives’ personal email accounts (Outlook/Gmail), with 1 email sent to 1 company. It can be used without changing existing customer lists or email addresses.
Easy one-touch operation with one hand, even while cooking! New rechargeable electric mill makes grinding peppercorns and rock salt a breeze!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
小泉成器株式会社 has announced the launch of the rechargeable electric mill “KPM-0200/S,” which lets users easily grind peppercorns and rock salt with one hand.
Zhang Shanzheng: 桃園市立醫院 plans to add branches in Dayuan and Luzhu
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taoyuan Mayor Zhang Shanzheng announced the launch of the second phase of planning for the municipal hospital system. Starting next year, it is expected to add branches in Dayuan and Luzhu, fulfilling the blueprint for 1 main hospital and 5 branches.
精測: Revenue expected to rise next year as capacity expansion continues; probe card growth outlook promising
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中華精測 expects next year's revenue growth to remain at this year's level, with probe card business growth promising and its share challenging 3 tenths. Capacity expansion is proceeding as planned, with capacity in the first quarter of next year set to increase to 3 times the level at the end of 2025. HPC applications remain positive, and high-end probe card revenue exceeded that of mobile application processors for the first time.
內政部 honors 52 outstanding civic organizations, thanks them for their long-term contributions to society
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
內政部 honored 52 outstanding civic organizations. Minister Liu Shih-fang thanked civil society groups for their contributions to disaster response and social care, and held an AI FOR GOOD forum to promote the application of technology.
Facts
52 outstanding civic organizations
115 National Social Organizations Public Contribution Award
大都會投信 completes name change; Feng Ke: 150-year-old group begins its Taiwan year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
大都會投資管理（MIM） acquired 柏瑞投信 and officially changed its name to 大都會投信 in October. MIM President Feng Ke said the 大都會集團, with a 150-year history, would begin its Taiwan year.
Final Peace Project of her mayoral term; Lu Shiow-yen: will visit all city government outposts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen launched the final “Peace Project” of her term, leading the city government team on visits to the Heping District Parent-Child Center and the Heping Service Office of the Dongshi Household Registration Office, and chairing a development forum.
Cai Yi-yu establishes Alishan support group; Wu Pin-jui canvasses for votes in Dongshi
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Democratic Progressive Party Chiayi County magistrate candidate Cai Yi-yu established a support group in Alishan Township and proposed improving transportation to boost tourism. Independent candidate Wu Pin-jui, backed by the Kuomintang, canvassed for votes in Dongshi Township.
Facts
18 townships and cities in Chiayi County
7-seat vehicle
Seniors aged 65 and over
Senior citizens' card allowance raised to 1500 points
German chancellor's Asia visit and remarks on China; Beijing hopes Germany and Europe will remain rational
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Singapore, Japan and South Korea, advocating reduced dependence on China. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun responded by expressing hope that Germany and Europe would remain rational and jointly safeguard supply chain stability.
Facts
Visits to 3 countries: Singapore, Japan and South Korea
Guo Jiakun chaired a regular press conference on the 28th
Ministry helps fastener industry weather tariff impact; 209 companies adopt AI tools
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's fastener industry has gradually recovered from the impact of U.S. tariffs, with output returning to the NT$40 billion level in the second quarter of this year. The Ministry of Economic Affairs helped 209 companies adopt AI tools, granted R&D subsidies to 104 companies, and provided more than NT$2.5 billion in financing. Together with overseas market development measures, these efforts are helping companies target high-value markets such as AI servers, electric vehicles and drones.
Facts
104 companies received R&D subsidies
More than NT$2.5 billion in financing provided
Output returned to the NT$40 billion level
Quarter-on-quarter increase of more than 9%
Output reached NT$40.66 billion in the second quarter of this year
Quarter-on-quarter increase of 9.4%
More than 2000 supply chain companies
More than 95% of output exported
Export volume accounts for about 13% of global supply
718 fastener-industry project loans approved
Approved financing of about NT$2.56 billion
Subsidies provided to 12 trade associations to attend exhibitions as delegations
313 fastener companies have benefited
105 matchmaking sessions held
Product development time cut from 5 weeks to under 3 weeks
Machine adjustment time cut from 8 hours to 2 hours
Japan revises 3 security documents, plans to make deterrence capability a pillar of defense
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Japanese government plans to revise its 3 security documents, including the National Security Strategy, this year, and is considering positioning deterrence capability as a pillar for strengthening defense capabilities. Defense Minister Shinjirō Koizumi explained the move to U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The 2 sides agreed to deepen Japan-U.S. alliance cooperation, including joint production of medium-range air-to-air missiles and stronger cooperation on cybersecurity.
Facts
(中央社, Tokyo, 28, compiled from foreign wire reports)
Japanese Defense Minister Shinjirō Koizumi said in a speech on the 23rd
the National Defense Strategy released by the United States in January this year
Miaoli woman convicted of suffocating 2 children gets 30-year sentence; second-instance appeal upholds ruling
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A woman surnamed Wu from Miaoli suffocated her 2 minor children with a pillow in April last year amid divorce and custody disputes. A court of first instance sentenced her to 30 years in prison; the Taichung High Court's second-instance panel rejected her appeal and upheld the ruling.
Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda dies; Xi Jinping does not send customary condolence message to Sanae Takaichi
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda has died. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a condolence message to his family rather than to incumbent Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, a move Japanese media interpreted as an intentional snub of the sitting premier.
行政院 submitted draft amendments to the Hazardous and Old Buildings Reconstruction Act and the Urban Renewal Act to the Legislative Yuan for review on July 16
Former Taichung County Cultural Affairs Bureau director Chen Chih-sheng dies at 65
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Calligrapher Chen Chih-sheng, former director of the Taichung County Cultural Affairs Bureau, died at 光田綜合醫院 and 台中榮民總醫院 after complications from diabetes triggered by a cold. He was 65.
Facts
aged 65
retired from the post of adviser at 台中市政府 2 years ago
十銓 posts third-quarter EPS of NT$37.19; new factory to begin production in second quarter next year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
十銓 posted a record high in third-quarter after-tax net profit, with earnings per share reaching NT$37.19. To meet demand from enterprise and industrial-control customers, it announced the purchase of a factory building of about 1,000 ping in New Taipei City, expected to be completed and begin production in the second quarter of 2027. The company is also making organizational adjustments and promoting personnel.
Facts
Earnings per share of NT$37.19
NT$3.618 billion
A factory building of about 1,000 ping
The new factory is expected to be completed and begin production in the second quarter of 2027
Revenue of NT$10.139 billion
After-tax net profit of NT$2.618 billion
Revenue for the first 3 quarters totaled NT$26.772 billion
Crazy Forgetful Detective and My Chess Champion Grandpa selected for Tokyo film festival; crews brave heavy rain on the red carpet
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The films Crazy Forgetful Detective and My Chess Champion Grandpa were selected for the Tokyo film festival, and their crews walked the red carpet in the rain. The former was directed by Japanese filmmaker SABU and is scheduled to open in Taiwan next March. Some members of the latter's crew were absent because of the Golden Bell Awards; the film is scheduled to open on Feb. 6 next year.
Facts
TAIPEI, 28th
He led the cast on the 26th
Reika Kirishima at a panel discussion on the 27th
The film is scheduled to open in Taiwan next March
flew to Japan after sleeping for just 2 hours
The film is scheduled to open during the Lunar New Year holiday season on Feb. 6 next year
國民黨 to recruit election observers to closely monitor vote counting in local elections
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國民黨 announced it is recruiting election observers and setting up an observation system for the Nov. 28 local elections. It plans to train at least 2 to 3 volunteers for each polling and vote-counting station and establish a crisis response center. Kaohsiung, Tainan, Chiayi, Pingtung and Penghu, where 民進黨 holds power, are priority observation areas.
Facts
Key News of the 2026 Nine-in-One Elections
The local elections will be held on November 28
More than 200 training and education sessions will be held before the election
There are 18,244 polling and vote-counting stations nationwide
The goal is to have at least 2 to 3 election observers at every polling and vote-counting station
Number of people with both mortgages and personal loans tops 430,000, a record, as strong stock market fuels demand for personal funds
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中央社 reported that the number of people in Taiwan with both mortgages and personal loans reached 434,000 in July this year, the highest since 2012, driven mainly by soaring home prices, demand for living expenses and a buoyant stock market. 住商機構 and 台灣房屋 said mortgage and personal loan amounts among these borrowers have both risen, personal lending balances have hit a record, and borrowing for stock investments remains brisk.
Facts
In July this year, the number of borrowers nationwide holding both mortgages and personal loans reached 434,000
The average mortgage among borrowers with both types of loans reached NT$6.531 million in July
The average personal loan rose from NT$1.147 million to NT$1.309 million
As of August this year, personal lending balances at all banks totaled NT$22.9 trillion
The annual growth rate reached 9.18%
Personal lending balances increased by about NT$1.4 trillion from the end of last year
Working capital increased by more than NT$1 trillion
Amendment to Elderly Welfare Act leaves 66,000 vulnerable seniors at risk of being excluded; health ministry to submit report within 1 month
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Legislative Yuan passed amendments to the Elderly Welfare Act on third reading. The removal of the legal basis for subsidies toward co-payments could leave 66,000 vulnerable seniors without support, Health and Welfare Minister 石崇良 said, pledging to submit a response report within 1 month.
The Taiwan dollar closed at 32.418 against the U.S. dollar in the Taipei foreign exchange market, gaining 3.4 cents, with trading totaling US$1.703 billion.
The agreement reached between 美光 and a Taichung union has prompted questions from rank-and-file workers. 勞動部 said that if it is a general agreement and its legal effect is in doubt, members may file a civil lawsuit.
凌霄航太's Lo Cheng-fang: Drones rely on democratic allies to build resilient supply chains
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
凌霄航太 founder Lo Cheng-fang said the key to defense autonomy is harnessing the strengths of democratic allies worldwide to build resilient supply chains. The company has signed MOUs with U.S. firms Rajant and SiMa.ai and is pursuing strategic positioning in the U.S. and Japan, Central and Eastern Europe, and the Indo-Pacific. It expects to be listed on the emerging stock market before the end of 2027.
Facts
Opening 3 fronts: the U.S. and Japan, Central and Eastern Europe, and the Indo-Pacific
15-inch foldable flagship unmanned vehicle
Registered on April 17 this year
Taiwan-made components could account for 70%
Spent 20 years assembling just 1 aircraft
Nearly 1,000 drones have been delivered to the U.S.
Shipments could reach the tens of thousands
Expected to be listed on the emerging stock market before the end of 2027
The war between Russia and Ukraine has continued for more than 1708 days
European lawmaker: Avoid pathological dependence on authoritarian countries; democracies urgently need to unite
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ko Li-ho, acting chair of the Formosa Club's Taipei annual meeting, called on democracies to unite, reduce their “pathological dependence” on authoritarian countries and build trusted supply chains. Participants discussed Taiwan Strait security, undersea cable risk management and pressure from Chinese coercion, among other issues. The European Parliament has passed a resolution to deepen cooperation with East Asia.
Facts
Kinmen, an outlying island just 5 kilometers from China
Europe has recorded 195 undersea cable “incidents” since 2022
Sponsorship was immediately withdrawn by 3 companies
The Formosa Club was founded in 2019
This is the Formosa Club's 2nd Taipei annual meeting
The European Parliament, 19 European countries and 52 lawmakers attended
Tong Tzu-wei releases “Mayor of Everyday Life” campaign video outlining vision for Keelung's future
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tong Tzu-wei, the DPP's candidate for Keelung mayor, released a “Mayor of Everyday Life” campaign video outlining a vision for Keelung's future in areas including transportation, child care, long-term care, employment and pedestrian-friendly spaces. He emphasized solving residents' everyday problems.
台中國家歌劇院 presents dance work “Antigone,” portraying women subjected to violence
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
挪威冬季旅人舞團's dance work “Antigone,” adapted from a Greek tragedy and created by choreographer 奧文, recasts its protagonist as a group of women subjected to violence who resist. It will be performed at 台中國家歌劇院 from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1.
Facts
A Greek tragedy of the same name from 3,000 years ago
Hong Ping-sen, founder of 國城建設, said Tainan's housing market has corrected and is now at a low point, with prices expected to rebound next year. Its urban renewal project in the Ping-Shih redevelopment area is benefiting from tech-sector demand, with about 35% to 40% of buyers working in the technology industry.
Facts
About 35% to 40% of buyers are from the tech sector
Kaohsiung postpartum care center suspected of fraud; health bureau: Fined 9 times for a total of NT$2.31 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A postpartum care center in Kaohsiung's Renwu District was suspected of fraud and illegally performing nursing practices. The health bureau has imposed fines totaling NT$2.31 million in 9 cases since 111. 橋頭地檢署 is investigating the center's owner, surnamed Hsu, and on-site manager, surnamed Chang, on suspicion of fraud; both were released on bail.
AI and cross-border cloud demand surge; 是方 aims for record revenue and profit this year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
是方電訊 posted third-quarter revenue of NT$1.077 billion, up 14.9% year on year, while its gross margin rose to 51.5%. Benefiting from rising customer occupancy at its United Cloud AI data center (LY2) and surging demand for AI and cross-border cloud services, the company expects double-digit year-on-year revenue growth in the second half and record revenue and profit for the full year.
Facts
Earnings per share: NT$4.31
Gross margin surged to 51.5%
Second-half revenue growth is expected to reach double digits year on year
Revenue reached NT$1.077 billion
Up 14.9% year over year
Net profit after tax: NT$332 million
Up 22.4% year on year
Revenue for the first 3 quarters: NT$3.103 billion
Net profit after tax: NT$919 million
Earnings per share reached NT$11.87
Plans to distribute a cash dividend of NT$6.8 per share
Puli Flower Show opens Oct. 31; “I Have Flowers to Tell You” lets flowers introduce themselves
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Puli Flower Show will be held on weekends from Oct. 31 to Nov. 15 at 埔里花卉物流中心. This year's theme is “I Have Flowers to Tell You,” combining therapeutic gardens and flower education, with local residents and flowers introducing themselves in the first person.
Indonesian youth use traditional dance to advocate conservation, highlighting wildfires' cultural impact
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Indonesian conservation group Zwageri Generation performed the traditional dance “Ma’alap Senggayung” on scorched peatland in West Kalimantan province, using art to highlight the impact of wildfires on the environment, communities and Indigenous cultures. The event was supported by YIARI, and the video received about 1 million views within 2 days of its release, aiming to empower young people to speak out on fire-related issues.
Facts
Original（中央社記者 羅薇佳 雅加達28日專電）
YIARI was founded in 2008
The organization has been doing so since July
He posted a series of photos on Instagram on the 11th