ICRT

Posted on 2026-02-07 16:07:13

Chinese officials have warned American counterparts that a massive weapon
sales package planned for Taiwan risks derailing US President Donald Trump's
visit to Beijing in April. That's according to the Financial Times.

The FT cites eight unnamed sources in its report, which says a large arms
package that includes Patriot missiles and three other weapon systems is
being prepared that could be worth as much as US$20 billion. This appears to
be on top a $11 billion weapons package unveiled in December.

Chinese President Xi Jinping raised the issue of weapon sales to Taiwan in a
call with Trump on Wednesday. The FT cites a Brookings Institution China
expert as saying the public nature of the warning is "noteworthy."

FT said China's ambassador to Washington, Xie Feng, has warned the
administration about the arms sales, though the British newspaper couldn't
get direct confirmation from the embassy.

JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 16:07:14

India and the United States have released a framework for an interim trade
agreement to lower tariffs on Indian goods.

The joint statement follows US President Donald Trump's announcement last
week on reduced import tariffs for India.

This comes six months after Trump imposed tariffs to press New Delhi to cut
its reliance on Russian crude oil.

Under the deal, tariffs on Indian goods would drop to 18% from 25%.

India would also reduce tariffs on US goods.

The agreement aims to support resilient supply chains. However, Indian
opposition parties argue it favors the US and would hurt sensitive sectors
like agriculture.

AP_JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 14:08:13

Foreign ministry spokesman Xiao Guang-wei responded today to the Chinese
foreign ministry's urging of Lithuania to rename its Taiwan representative
office.

China said yesterday that its door was open to Lithuania after the Balkan
country's prime minister said Tuesday that it was a "mistake" to allow the
entity to be called the Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania rather
than the "Taipei" office. The Chinese spokesman said Beijing hoped Lithuania
would get on the right side of the so-called One China Principle and rectify
the "mistake."

A Taiwanese lawmaker in Taipei told CNA that using "Taiwanese" instead of
"Taipei" was a "tactical" error but it wasn't technically wrong.

Taiwan's Xiao said today that China uses its One China Principle to bully
nations that are friendly with Taiwan. He added that each country has a
legitimate right to choose its partners free of interference by authoritarian
forces.

Neither China nor Taiwan currently have official diplomatic relations with
Lithuania.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 14:08:13

The Control Yuan is planning to conduct an investigation into imports of
low-priced, small-value parcels from overseas e-commerce platforms.

Two Control Yuan members today noted the results of European investigations
of Shein that found harmful materials in clothing and children's sandals from
the China-based fast-fashion platform.

They said they'll be reviewing the adequacy of inspections conducted at
Taiwan's border for such items. They'll also look into the need for education
campaigns to ensure the public is aware of potential harm from low-priced
items bought on overseas e-commerce platforms.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 14:08:13

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore funding for a
new rail tunnel between New York and New Jersey.

The decision comes as construction was about to stop due to a funding freeze.

The Trump administration had halted $16 billion for the project, citing
concerns about unconstitutional spending.
US District Judge Jeannette Vargas approved a temporary restraining order to
keep the funds flowing while the case plays out in court.

AP_JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 13:07:14

The central government is looking to extend a March 31 deadline to formally
accept a payment timeline for weapons that the US government has committed
to.

The Taipei Times reports that the Ministry of National Defense said yesterday
that a delay by KMT legislators to approve spending for the military
purchases could scuttle the deal.

The KMT has said it won't issue "blank checks" for military spending, the
Taipei Times reports, though it does acknowledge the need for some defense
spending.

Defense Minister Wellington Koo said the sale process has become streamlined
on the US side. This comes after President Trump signed a sweeping
appropriations bill on Tuesday that includes US$1.4 billion in arms sales to
Taiwan.

Koo said Taiwanese risk becoming "numb" to China's daily pressure tactics.

The MND reported a relatively low level of PLA activity in the Taiwan Strait
in the 24 hours to 6am today. The ministry said it detected six aircraft
sorties and seven PLA ships operating in the area.

JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 12:07:13

Taiwanese shipbuilder CSBC Corp. says it aims to deliver the first
domestically built submarine prototype by the end of June.

CSBC Chairman Chen Jeng-horng said the Hai Kun, or Narwhal, prototype will
undergo numerous submerged tests, with each dive gradually reaching greater
depths.

It completed its fourth submerged test yesterday.

Responding to media reports that the company expects to deliver the submarine
to the Navy by the end of June, Chen said such estimates are reasonable,
adding that CSBC will coordinate with the Navy's requirements.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 12:07:13

Taiwan's National Chung-shan Institute of Science and Technology and US-based
defense company Kratos have announced that they've successfully completed
system integration of a payload and mission system for the Mighty Hornet IV
attack drone.

Kratos said the Mighty Hornet IV represents a "revolutionary transformation"
of its MQM-178 Firejet target drone, which the Taiwan drone is based on.

The drone is planned for volume production in Taiwan this year if flight
tests are successful.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 11:07:13

households

Premier Cho Jung-tai says he won't countersign a law passed by the
legislature that sets the stage for relocating 50 households in a Taipei
veteran village to a defense ministry housing project.

Cho told reporters that he wouldn't countersign the amendments to a relevant
law that cleared the Legislative Yuan on Jan. 17.

The amended law scrapped a provision that restricted eligibility for
relocation or reconstruction of veteran villages built before 1980.

The law appears to have been written specifically to enable relocation of 50
households from Tzu-jen 8 Village -- a complex in Taipei's Da'an District
commissioned in 1989 -- to Wanlung in Wenshan District. It would reverse a
2012 defense ministry ruling that rectified an administrative oversight that
permitted the relocation despite the village's ineligibility.

The law can't be implemented without both President Lai Ching-te's and
Premier Cho's signatures.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-02-07 11:07:14

Iran and the United States have held indirect talks in Oman.

The negotiations appeared to be a return to the starting point on discussions
over Tehran's nuclear program following multiple rounds last year before
Israel launched a 12-day war on Iran.

US Navy Admiral Brad Cooper, the head of the American military's Central
Command, was at yesterday's talks in Muscat -- serving as a reminder that the
aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and other US warships have been deployed
off the coast of Iran in the Arabian Sea.

President Trump said the US had "very good" talks on Iran and said more were
planned for early next week.

AP_JvW

Posted on 2026-02-06 19:13:13

A partner company of Line TV, a video streaming platform with more than 6
million users, reported that some users' data were hacked in late January.

They said the incident did not affect Line or related services, which operate
on a separate server and information security system from Line TV.

Choco Media Entertainment Co., a service provider for Line TV, said yesterday
that it discovered that part of its user data had been accessed without
authorisation between January 24 and 26.

The leaked data include user IDs, email addresses, phone numbers, passwords,
birthdays, nicknames, and profile photos.

The company stressed that no financial information, such as bank account or
credit card details, was compromised.

Line TV will grant free access to users as compensation.

It said it had fixed the system vulnerability and strengthened data
protection.

Posted on 2026-02-06 19:13:13

The Taipei Blood Centre says there is an urgent shortage in blood stocks as
donor numbers drop with recent temperature swings.

It says Taipei has only about 4 days of blood supply left overall.

Type B is down to 4 days, and type O is at 3 days, near the critical line.

The Taiwan Blood Services Foundation says the national supply is about 5
days, with type O at 4 days.

Officials say more people are sick with colds, while hospitals are using more
blood, so reserves keep falling.

The centre says demand will not drop during the Lunar New Year holiday and
urges eligible people to donate before the break.

It also says the age range for donation expanded to between 16 to 70 since
July of last year, with extra rules for older donors.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-06 19:13:13

Yunlin prosecutors say task forces busted 2 etomidate "zombie vape cartridge"
packaging sites in Kaohsiung and Yunlin.

Prosecutors indicted 2 men for alleged drug offenses.

In a November raid, police say they seized heroin, methamphetamine with net
pure weight of up to 120 grams, and etomidate liquid, worth over $1 million
NT.

Prosecutors say one of the suspects used a rented home in Mailiao (麥寮) to
make and package drugs, including etomidate powder and finished cartridges.

They say officers also seized tools used for heating, mixing, and filling
cartridges, along with a press mold, grinder, bags, and electronic scales.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-06 19:13:13

Now in international news ...

Hong Kong’s pro-democracy former media tycoon Jimmy Lai will be sentenced
next Monday.

He was convicted in December under a Beijing-imposed national security law.

Lai, the 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, could
face up to life in prison in a case that has stirred criticism from some
foreign governments.

Lai was an outspoken critic of China’s ruling Communist Party and was
arrested in 2020 under the national security law that Beijing deemed
necessary for the city’s stability following anti-government protests the
previous year.

His trial was widely seen as an indicator of the decline of press freedom in
the former British colony.

But the city’s government insists the case has nothing to do with media
freedom.

Posted on 2026-02-06 19:13:13

An unprecedented four-site, two-cauldron Winter Olympics opening ceremony is
scheduled to officially start the Milan Cortina Games tonight.

The ceremony will feature Italian cultural icons, including operatic tenor
Andrea Bocelli and a reference to the late fashion designer Giorgio Armani.

American singer Mariah Carey will also perform.

This is the most spread-out Olympics in history, with competition venues
across an area a bit larger than half the size of Taiwan.

The main hub Friday is in Milan at San Siro soccer stadium.

Athletes will also march at three other sites in the Dolomite Mountains and
the Italian Alps.

Milan is home to the ice hockey, figure skating, and speed skating
competitions.

Skiers and ski jumpers, snowboarders, curlers, and bobsledders, lugers, and
skeleton riders will compete at the mountain venues.

Posted on 2026-02-06 19:13:13

Political parties in Thailand are gearing up for their final campaign rallies
ahead of a general election.

This is under a backdrop of slow economic growth, rising nationalism and
allegations of cybercrime and corruption.

It's expected to be a tight race amongst the three major parties with no
outright winner.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul called the snap vote in December after
dissolving parliament to avoid a no-confidence motion.

Anutin seeks to return to power with his conservative Bhumjaithai Party
focusing on national security and economic stimulus.

The progressive People’s Party leads in polls but faces challenges in
forming a coalition.

A referendum on replacing the 2017 constitution will also be held.

There will be 400 lawmakers directly elected based on constituencies, while
100 others will be chosen from “party list” nominees, who gain seats
according to each party’s proportional share of the vote. Together they will
constitute the 500 members of the House of Representatives who select the
prime minister.

No single party is expected to win an outright majority, leaving the prime
minister to be determined through intense coalition bargaining, similar to
the result in 2023.

Analysts say the People’s Party may win the most seats but faces significant
hurdles in finding coalition partners due to its reform agenda, which
includes shaking up the powerful military.

A Bhumjaithai-led coalition is a more probable outcome because the party
would likely secure the backing of the conservative establishment that views
its platform as less disruptive to the political status quo.

Referendum could impact the constitution

A referendum also will be held asking voters whether Thailand should replace
its 2017 military-drafted constitution.

Rather than a specific draft, the vote will decide whether to authorize
Parliament to begin a formal drafting process. Pro-democracy groups view it
as a critical first step toward reducing the influence of unelected
institutions such as the military and judiciary. Conservatives oppose the
measure, saying the changes could remove essential safeguards for political
stability.

Posted on 2026-02-06 18:29:13

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an has confirmed that NVIDIA has completed pricing
negotiations to move into the Beitou–Shilin Technology Park, clearing the
way for final procedures.

Deputy Mayor Lee Szu-chuan says the agreed rights fee totals 12.2 billion NT.

Lee says negotiations with NVIDIA concluded smoothly, and the contract could
be signed as early as February 11th, or no later than February 13th, ahead of
the Lunar New Year holiday.

City officials say NVIDIA will now complete its internal contract review,
with further details to be released later.

Once the deal is signed, the project can move into permit applications, with
city officials hoping construction can begin before June.

The project would see NVIDIA establish its Taiwan headquarters at the
technology park, marking a major boost for Taipei's technology and innovation
hub.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-02-06 14:22:13

TSMC plans to hold a board meeting in Kumamoto on Monday, its first board
meeting in Japan.

A source says National Development Council head Yeh Chun-hsien (葉俊顯), a
government representative on TSMC's board, will travel there to attend.

The plan follows yesterday's meeting between TSMC chairman C.C. Wei and
Japan's Prime Minister Sana-e Taka-ichi.

The source said Wei told Takaichi that TSMC aims to make advanced 3-nanometer
chips at its second Kumamoto fab to meet AI demand.

TSMC began mass production at its first Kumamoto plant in late 2024, with
support from partners including Sony and Toyota.

The second fab, now under construction, had been set to make 6- to
12-nanometer chips and is scheduled to start production in late 2027.

Economy minister Kung Ming-hsin (龔明鑫) said overseas expansion is unlikely
to reduce TSMC investment at home.

(CNA-PB)

Posted on 2026-02-06 14:22:19

The U.S. military says Washington and Moscow agreed on Thursday to
reestablish high-level military-to-military talks.

The agreement followed meetings in Abu Dhabi involving General Alexus
Grynkewich, the head of U.S. European Command.

The United States cut most military communication with Russia just before
Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

The U.S. military says the renewed dialogue aims to reduce risks of
miscalculation and escalation.

U.S. and Russian forces have still kept an emergency deconfliction line in
place.

The statement comes as U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President
Vladimir Putin have spoken directly several times.

Posted on 2026-02-06 14:22:15

Team Taiwan has announced its 30-man roster for the 2026 World Baseball
Classic.

The squad has 16 pitchers, 3 catchers, and 11 position players, and captain
Chen Chieh-hsien (陳傑憲).

Two Taiwanese Americans, outfielder Stuart Fairchild and infielder Jonathon
Long, will make their Taiwan debuts.

Both were born to Taiwanese mothers and now play in Triple-A systems for the
Guardians and the Cubs.

Pitchers to watch include Lin Yu-min (林昱民) of the Diamondbacks and Lin
Wei-en (林維恩) of the Athletics, both invited to MLB spring training.

The World Baseball Classic runs from March 5th to March 17th, and Taiwan will
compete in Pool C of the games agaisnt Australia, Japan, the Czech Republic,
and South Korea at Tokyo Dome.

(CNA-PB)

Posted on 2026-02-06 14:22:21

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer attacked former ambassador Peter
Mandelson on Thursday and said he was sorry for believing his "lies."

Starmer faces pressure over appointing Mandelson as ambassador to Washington
in December 2024, despite known ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

New U.S. Justice Department files highlighted the closeness of that
relationship and suggested Mandelson leaked government documents to Epstein.

Mandelson quit the House of Lords on Tuesday amid the uproar and is now under
police investigation for alleged misconduct in office.

Starmer said people knew Mandelson knew Epstein, but not "the depth and the
darkness" of the relationship.

Starmer apologized to Epstein's victims and said he shared lawmakers' anger
about the appointment.

He said he wants to publish the security vetting advice, but will not act in
ways police say could harm the investigation.

Posted on 2026-02-06 13:52:13

Tainan's Health Bureau says the city has confirmed its first imported dengue
case of the year.

Officials say the patient is a Vietnamese woman in her 40s who lives in
Guanmiao District (關廟區).

They say she entered Taiwan on Jan. 31st through Kaohsiung Xiaogang Airport
(高雄小港機場).

The bureau says she developed fever, muscle pain, cough, and a runny nose on
Feb. 2nd.

Officials say she sought medical care two days after showing symptoms and was
reported after a rapid test.

The case was lab-confirmed yesterday as dengue virus serotype 2.

Tainan's dengue control center says teams were sent to remove mosquito
breeding sites near her home and plan chemical control work.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-06 13:52:13

An orange low temperature warning is now in place for greater Taipei,
Taoyuan, Xinzhu, Yilan and outlying Kinmen, as the mercury can drop to 10
degrees Celsius or lower for long periods of time on Sunday and Monday
morning.

The Central Weather Administration says with the arrival of a cold surge
tomorrow, there'll be a noticeable drop in temperatures and rain across
central and northern Taiwan.

Temperatures should range between 9 and 12 in the north, and between 10 and
14 in the center.

Other areas will also experience cold mornings and evenings from early
morning on the 8th to the 9th.

In Kaohsiung, low temp can plunge to 13 degrees.

Forecasters are calling on everyone to stay warm and be careful when using
gas water heaters.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-06 13:52:13

Taiwan shares edged lower along with most Asian markets after Wall Street
extended losses driven by technology stocks.

The TaiEx lost 18 points to close the session at 31-thousand-782.

The turnover reached 676 billion NT.

Posted on 2026-02-06 13:52:13

The White House says diplomacy is U.S. President Donald Trump's first choice
in dealing with Iran, ahead of talks in Oman on Friday.

Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump wants "zero nuclear capability"
from Iran, but also has military options.

Final preparations were under way as the United States builds up forces in
the Middle East, which Trump has called a massive "armada."

The talks are set to proceed despite differences over the agenda, with
Washington seeking wider issues and Tehran saying the focus must be the
nuclear program.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi left for Oman on Thursday, as Tehran
said it seeks a fair and dignified understanding on the nuclear issue.

Araqchi is expected to meet in Muscat with Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff and
the president's adviser Jared Kushner.

Trump has warned of strikes if no deal is reached, while regional governments
are urging calm to avoid wider conflict.

Posted on 2026-02-06 13:52:13

Norway's economic crime police, Oekokrim, says it has opened an investigation
into former prime minister Thorbjoern /THOR-byorn/ Jagland.

Oekokrim says the case involves suspicion of aggravated corruption, linked to
newly released files tied to Jeffrey Epstein.

Jagland, who chaired the Norwegian Nobel Committee and later led the Council
of Europe, has not been charged.

Police say they will examine whether gifts, travel, or loans were received in
connection with his positions.

Norway's Foreign Ministry agreed to seek the lifting of Jagland's immunity as
a former head of an international organization.

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide /IDE/ said it is important to bring the
facts to light and Norway will propose revoking the immunity.

Jagland's lawyer said he welcomes the investigation and expects a favorable
outcome, while the Nobel Committee declined to comment.

Posted on 2026-02-06 13:52:13

Organisers of the Global Sumud Flotilla say they will try again this year to
bring aid to Gaza by sea.

They say they hope to send about 100 boats, with up to 1,000 medics, more
than twice last year's effort.

Israel's military stopped about 40 boats last October as they tried to reach
blockaded Gaza.

Organisers say more than 450 people were detained, including Swedish activist
Greta Thunberg.

Israel has called such missions publicity stunts and says it is not
withholding supplies for Gaza's 2 million residents.

Aid groups and Palestinians say supplies are still not enough, even after an
October ceasefire that promised more aid.

The activists say even if Israel blocks the flotilla again, the mission will
still spotlight Gaza's situation.

Posted on 2026-02-06 11:07:13

Defense Minister Wellington Koo is raising concerns over an increase in PLA
harassment in 2025.

Koo says, PLA planes and drones made over 3700 intrusions into Taiwan's
airspace last year...

marking a 23% increase from in 2024.

The defense minister adds that he blieves the CCP is intending to slowly
incorporate Taiwan into China by exerting pressure through gray zone warfare.

Koo added that statistics show that Chinese planes and drones frequently
crossed into Taiwan's Air Defense Identificaiton Zone last year to enter the
southwest and eastern airspace.

Additionally, PLA warships entered Taiwan's response zone over 2500 times
last year, representing an increase of about 7% to the previous year.

Koo says, the multilayered repression raises fears of the Taiwanese public
being lulled into a false sense of security.

Posted on 2026-02-06 11:07:13

Authorities in Taipei have arrested 6 people after a woman was robbed of over
7 million NT.

The woman, surnamed Hsu, fell victim to an online romance and fake
crytocurrency scam.

Police say that officers arrested the suspects in New Taipei and recovered
most of the stolen money.

Officials say, they received reports that cash linked to a fraud case had
been snatched in Datong district.

Hsu had met a man online months earlier and was drawn into a romance scam
before being persuaded to invest in a fake crytocurrency scheme.

Last month, Hsu handed over 1 million NT as an initial inevstment, after
which the scammers encouraged her to invest more.

She then arranged to meet a man surnamed Hsieh who posed as a broker, to
deliver over 7 million NT.

But during the handover, another man grabbed the cash and fled in a nearby
getaway car.

Posted on 2026-02-06 11:07:13

The Taichung City government has moved to close a Japanese restaurant after
several people developed symptoms of food poisoning.

Officials say, just under half of those that dined at the West District
establishment reported discomfort.

Inspectors visited the site earlier this week to collect samples.

Results are expected in about 2 weeks.

The case came to light after one diner posted online about seeking medical
treatment after eating at a sukiyaki restaurant.

Posted on 2026-02-06 11:07:13

The Mexican state of Jalisco has issued a health alert and mandated face
masks in schools due to a measles outbreak in the state capital.

This comes after the Pan American Health Organization issued an
epidemiological alert over the disease's spread in the Americas, with Mexico
leading in confirmed cases.

Jalisco is the epicenter, with over 1,100 confirmed cases this year.

The outbreak began last year in Chihuahua and has spread across Mexico.

This outbreak coincides with preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Posted on 2026-02-06 11:07:13

Authorities in Canada have arrested 7 police officers over suspected ties to
organized crime.

Officials say, the officers unlawfully collected and distributed personal
information to organized crime figures, in some cases for bribes.

Mobsters then used this information for shootings and other violent crimes.

The investigation began in June when police uncovered a murder plot targeting
a corrections manegement employee.

The officers under investigation have now been suspended.

Posted on 2026-02-06 09:29:13

The Tourism Administration joined airlines and travel firms at a major travel
fair in Mumbai, India.

Officials promoted a new marketing theme, "Taiwan never sleeps," aimed at
high-end and incentive travel.

The Taiwan pavilion used the brand "Taiwan - Waves of Wonder" and hosted
business matching and public activities.

Opening-day events included a performance by Lei Sheng Art Group
(雷昇傳藝劇團) and a "Sword Lion" painting workshop from Lukang (鹿港).

Taiwan highlighted daytime scenery and late-night city life, along with
nightlife options and 24-hour services.

Office head Shih Chih-chung (施志忠) said safety and convenience are key
selling points for Indian travelers.

He said 24-hour convenience stores help visitors, especially women, feel
secure even late at night.

Organizers say the Outbound Travel Mart runs until tomorrow in Mumbai, with
over 60 countries and more than 2-thousand-200 exhibitors.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-06 09:29:13

Weather expert Wu Derong (吳德榮) says Taiwan is forecast to be mostly cloudy
to sunny today, but northern areas will cool after dark.

He says a front moves in tonight, bringing local rain to northern Taiwan and
falling temperatures.

Wu says temperatures drop sharply tomorrow, with rain in the north and the
east, and more clouds in central Taiwan.

He says Sunday and Monday turn drier but stay cold, with the east seeing
occasional brief showers.

He says European and U.S. model runs show Taipei could touch 10 degrees early
Sunday to Monday, the second cold wave this winter.

Wu says some lowland areas could fall below 6 degrees, and high mountains may
see snow as the snow line drops to about 1-thousand-200 meters.

He says it stays very cold early next Tuesday, then warms in the day, before
a smaller cold push arrives on Wednesday.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-06 09:29:13

British defence minister John Healey says NATO defence ministers are likely
to discuss Greenland security at a meeting in Brussels next week.

The talks follow comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has said he
wants Greenland and claims allies have not secured it well.

Trump's remarks sparked a dispute with NATO member Denmark, which controls
Greenland as an overseas territory.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte says he discussed Arctic security with
Trump, but few details have been released.

Healey pointed to a proposed NATO "Arctic Sentry" mission as a way to boost
vigilance around Greenland.

He says the mission would show NATO is already acting and could step up
further.

Healey also said Britain wants more private investment to match rising public
defence spending.

Posted on 2026-02-06 09:29:13

New Zealand marks Waitangi Day today, the anniversary of the 1840 Treaty of
Waitangi.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the country must keep evolving to
empower Maori while preserving national unity.

Hundreds gathered at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands for a
dawn service.

Paddlers from different tribes arrived by waka, the traditional Maori canoe,
and were expected to perform the haka.

The treaty, signed by the British Crown and more than 500 Maori chiefs, still
guides laws and policy.

The day has added political weight ahead of a national election last
November, after the government rolled back some Indigenous policies.

A bill last year to reinterpret the treaty's principles sparked protests and
later failed, and Luxon called for peaceful debate.

Posted on 2026-02-06 09:29:13

About 35 of 85 countries at a military AI summit in A Coruna, Spain, agreed
to a declaration on governing AI in warfare.

According to attendees, China and the United States did not join the pledge.

Supporters say fast AI advances could outpace rules, raising risks of
accidents, miscalculation, or unintended escalation.

Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans said governments face a "prisoner's
dilemma" between limits and competition.

The declaration lists 20 principles, including human responsibility for
AI-powered weapons and clear command and control.

It also calls for risk assessments, robust testing, and training for
personnel using military AI.

Major signers included Canada, Germany, France, Britain, the Netherlands,
South Korea and Ukraine.

Posted on 2026-02-05 19:59:13

Authorities are warning travelers that food brought back to Taiwan from
overseas is strictly for personal use only ... and must not be re-sold,
either online or in person.

The Food and Drug Administration says violators can face fines up to $3
million NT, even if the food is only listed for sale and not actually sold.

Officials say 116 violations were caught last year, with total fines
exceeding $3.6 million NT.

Most cases involved travelers selling imported food online without proper
labeling or import approval.

The FDA also reminds travelers that strict quantity limits apply to food
brought into Taiwan ...

... and urges the public to check official guidelines before purchasing food
abroad.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-02-05 19:59:13

In similar news,

Health authorities in Taiwan are reminding travelers to stay alert to disease
outbreaks during the Lunar New Year travel rush and to take proper
precautions.

The CDC says global activity for flu remains high, especially in nearby
countries such as Japan, South Korea, China, and Hong Kong.

Measles cases have also been reported in parts of North America and Southeast
Asia.

Officials warn that mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya
continue to circulate in Southeast Asia and the Americas, while malaria
remains a risk in parts of Africa and South Asia.

Travelers are advised to get recommended vaccinations before departure,
practice good hygiene, avoid contact with wild animals, and take mosquito
protection measures.

Anyone feeling unwell during or after travel should seek medical care and
report their travel history.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-02-05 17:08:13

Chang Geng's medical system says 9 hospitals will open special outpatient
clinics during the 9-day Lunar New Year holiday.

The clinics aim to divert minor cases like flu-like illness, fever, breathing
symptoms and gastroenteritis.

The system says the infectious disease special clinics will run from the
first to the third day of the holiday, from February 17th to 19th.

It says outpatient IV antibiotic treatment will continue, so stable patients
can avoid unnecessary hospital stays.

Hospitals also urged people with chronic prescriptions to refill medications
before February 13th if supplies will run out.

Chang Geng says a dedicated team will monitor ER crowding indicators daily
and coordinate beds and staff.

It also says it will activate cross-hospital support with nearby facilities
if capacity becomes tight.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 17:08:13

A recent survey has found that teenagers in Taiwan spend more than seven
hours a day using digital tools, with over half saying this has led to
emotional anxiety.

In response, the Taiwan Alliance for Advancement of Youth Rights and Welfare
has partnered with a convenience store chain to release a series of digital
safety comics aimed at strengthening young people’s digital literacy.

The Alliance said its survey also showed that more than half of respondents
said recommendation algorithms have led to behaviors such as endless
scrolling, sleep deprivation, and emotional anxiety.

Over 60 percent of young people said adults rarely discussed rules for
digital device use with them.

Responding to the needs of young people, the Alliance has published a comic
titled “Think Before You Scroll: Your Guide to Digital Safety” with Family
Mart and will distribute the book in educational settings.

The organization also plans to roll out four interactive games in the near
future to help teenagers learn how to assess and respond to different digital
scenarios.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-05 17:08:13

Taiwan's disaster film "96 Minutes" has become a hit overseas after its
Netflix release.

Netflix data show it ranked No. 4 worldwide on the non-English films chart
for January 26th to February 1st.

The film also reached No. 1 in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore and
Vietnam.

It placed in the top 10 in 24 countries, including markets in Africa and the
Americas.

The movie is Taiwan's first disaster film built around the high-speed rail,
and earned $200 million NT at the local box office.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 17:08:13

In world news....

The last remaining nuclear arms pact between Russia and the United States has
expired, removing caps on their atomic arsenals for the first time in over 50
years.

The end of the New START Treaty could lead to an unconstrained nuclear arms
race.

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed readiness to stick to the
treaty’s limits for another year if the U.S. agreed, but U.S. President
Donald Trump has remained noncommittal.

On Wednesday, Putin discussed the expiration with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Russia's Foreign Ministry stated that both countries are now free to choose
their next steps.

The treaty, signed in 2010, was extended in 2021 but inspections stopped in
2020.

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:34:13

The U.S. House committee on Science, Space, and Technology has approved an
authorization bill that includes an amendment to strengthen space cooperation
with Taiwan.

It would break the status quo by allowing U.S. space personnel to be
stationed at Taiwan’s space agencies, helping boost Taiwan’s space
capabilities.

The Committee approved a sweeping authorization bill for NASA, incorporating
the bipartisan Taiwan–U.S. Space Assistance Act, or T-A-S-A Act.

The Act, proposed by House Representatives French Hill and Gabe Amo in
December, grants NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
authority to work directly with Taiwan’s Space Agency.

Hill said the areas of cooperation include satellite programs, space
exploration and atmospheric research.

The bill still needs to passed by the House and the Senate, and signed by the
President to make it effective.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:34:13

Taiwan's domestically built submarine prototype Hai Kun (海鯤) carried out
its third dive test this morning.

A military analyst says the recent pace of sea trials suggests the boat is
stable and needs few adjustments.

He says testing is expected to continue at different depths and speeds in the
coming days.

The submarine sailed out around 8 a.m., joined at sea by a Da Wu-class rescue
ship and a CSBC-developed unmanned vessel called the "Endeavor Manta USV"
(奮進魔鬼魚號).

The analyst says today's work was still shallow-water testing, with a planned
depth within 100 meters.

CSBC says the previous dive test on January 30th met its targets, and the
program is moving step by step to verify full-ship performance for Navy
requirements.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:34:13

The Cabinet has approved holiday measures to help stabilize prices ahead of
the Lunar New Year.

Officials say gasoline and diesel prices from the 16th to the 23rd will only
fall, not rise.

They also say natural gas and bottled LPG will not increase in price in
February.

CPC says car-wash prices at its directly operated stations will stay
unchanged during the period.

Meanwhile, the agriculture ministry says supplies of key items, including
vegetables, fruit, flowers, pork, poultry and seafood, will rise by 7 to
140-percent.

Health officials also announced holiday plans to support vulnerable groups
and ensure emergency care capacity, alongside stronger food safety checks.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:34:13

UNICEF is calling on governments to criminalize the creation of AI-generated
child sexual abuse content.

The UN children's agency says it is alarmed by reports of more AI images
being used to sexualize children.

UNICEF also warned about "nudification," where AI alters photos to create
fake sexualized images.

It said at least 1.2 million children across 11 countries reported their
images were turned into sexually explicit deepfakes in the past year.

UNICEF urged AI developers to build stronger safeguards into their systems
and called on platforms to improve detection and moderation.

Britain says it plans to make it illegal to use AI tools to create child
sexual abuse images, in what it says would be a first.

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:22:13

The Central Bank has pulled remaining stock of its zodiac coin sets to
prevent arbitrage as silver prices surged.

Officials say the bank noticed unusual buying late last year and ordered
Chunghwa Post to remove the sets from sale and recall them.

The bank says the silver content cost had risen above the selling price,
creating incentives for bulk purchases.

Officials say tens of thousands of sets were taken off shelves and sent to
the Central Mint as raw material for future coins.

The central bank says this is the first time it has faced this kind of
situation, after years of silver trading near $30 US dollars an ounce.

It says this year's Year of the Horse set has been raised to a record
$2-thousand-450 NT, and future prices will track global silver markets.

Officials stress the sets are meant for collecting and gift-giving, not for
profit-taking.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:22:16

TSMC says chairman C.C. Wei met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on
Thursday to discuss investment in Japan.

Wei told Takaichi the company plans to mass-produce 3-nanometer chips in
Kumamoto, and said it should help local growth and support Japan's AI
industry.

Takaichi called the plan "exciting" and said Japan's government intends to
provide support.

TSMC says it is evaluating upgrading its second Kumamoto fab in Kikuyo from
the original 6-to-12 nanometer plan to 3-nanometer production.

Japanese media say the move would be Japan's first domestic site to make
3-nanometer chips.

Reports also say equipment investment for the still-unfinished second fab
could rise from about US$12.2 billion to US$17 billion.

TSMC is expected to finalize the plan soon and coordinate next steps with
Japan's economy ministry.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:22:16

Taiwan shares are lower along with other Asian markets after more drops for
technology stocks weighed on Wall Street.

The TaiEx ended down 488 points to close the session at 31-thousand-801.

The turnover reached 690 billion NT.

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:22:16

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says about 55-thousand Ukrainian
soldiers have been killed in the war with Russia.

He gave the figure in a pre-recorded interview aired Wednesday on French TV
channel France 2.

Zelenskiy said the number covers troops killed on the battlefield, including
professional soldiers and conscripts.

He added that a large number of people are also officially listed as missing.

Zelenskiy had previously cited more than 46-thousand Ukrainian military
deaths in an interview in February last year.

Posted on 2026-02-05 14:22:16

Messaging app Telegram founder Pavel Durov criticized Spain's proposed rules
to ban social media access for youth under 16.

He also opposed plans to prosecute platform executives over hate speech and
to criminalize algorithms seen as amplifying harmful content.

Durov warned the package would push platforms to collect data on all users
and remove more content to avoid prosecution.

Spain's prime minister's office defended the proposal and said Durov's mass
message to Spanish users shows why regulation is needed.

The office accused him of spreading false claims and said the measures aim to
protect minors and enforce the law.

Elon Musk also condemned the plan, calling Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez a
"tyrant" in a post on X.

Reports say Spain is among several countries considering tougher social media
rules, after Australia moved to block access for under-16s.

Posted on 2026-02-05 13:35:13

Taipei police say they have arrested 6 suspects and recovered most of the
cash stolen in a daylight robbery tied to an investment scam in Datong
District.

The incident happened Tuesday afternoon near Chien-cheng (建成) Circle, after
a woman was lured into a bogus cryptocurrency scheme that began as an online
romance trap.

Investigators say the victim was handing over $7 million NT in an in-person
deal when a man suddenly grabbed the money and fled.

Police say they identified targets and the getaway car within 5 hours, then
made arrests in New Taipei and other areas.

Officers say they recovered about $7 million NT in cash, and are holding the
suspected ringleader.

Police say the scam courier may have known the robbery suspects, and
investigators are looking into possible collusion.

(IG, PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 13:35:13

The U.S. State Department said that during the recent sixth Taiwan–U.S.
Economic Prosperity Partnership Dialogue, both sides exchanged views on
strategic coordination for supply chain security, including cooperation in
critical minerals.

Economics Minister Gong Ming-xin said in addition to actively developing
mining and refining technologies, the United States is also willing to help
Taiwan secure access to mineral sources and jointly develop production in
third countries.

It's meant to diversify risks and ensure stable supplies.

On the domestic research front, Gong noted that his Ministry is supporting
the Industrial Technology Research Institute in advancing indigenous rare
earth R&D and pilot-line technologies.

He said plans are in place to establish a trial-scale production line within
three years, which is expected to meet around 50 percent of domestic demand.

Posted on 2026-02-05 13:35:13

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, together with representatives from 54
countries and the European Commission, announced today at the 2026 Critical
Minerals Ministerial meeting that they're seeking to reshape the global
market for critical minerals and rare earths.

He stressed the importance of critical minerals, saying this market is highly
concentrated nowadays, leaving it a tool of political coercion and supply
chain disruption, putting the U.S. core interests at risk.

President Donald Trump said earlier this week that the U.S. is launching a
12-billion-U.S.-dollar rare earth minerals reserve for civilian use in times
of emergency

This is an effort called Project Vault, and it aims to reduce US. reliance on
imports from countries like China for minerals that are critical in making
products such as smart phones and vehicles.

The President says Project Vault will be funded by a loan from the U.S.
Export and Import Bank and private sector financing.

Posted on 2026-02-05 13:35:13

Attacks on Bangladesh’s Hindu minority have surged since the ouster of
former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in an uprising in 2024.

The violence has deepened fears about their place in the Muslim-majority
nation ahead of a consequential election on Feb. 12.

Human rights groups say homes, temples and businesses have been targeted in a
campaign of violence and intimidation that reflects deepening polarization,
the re-emergence of Islamists and a widening culture of impunity.

Community leaders warn that the climate of fear could suppress minority
participation in the vote.

While the interim government has condemned the attacks and promised
protection, critics say accountability has been limited.

Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh have also inflamed tensions with neighboring
India, prompting protests by Hindu nationalist groups and criticism from
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

Posted on 2026-02-05 11:23:13

Taipei officials yesterday conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for a new
section of the Taipei Metro Circular Line.

That section will pass through the Neihu technology park to connect with
Zhongshan district.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan An says that the project includes the construction of
3 underground metro stations and 4 shield tunels.

Chiang said he ordered the responsible departments multiple times to
implement supporting measures to ease traffic congestion...

acknowledging the potential inconvenience to nearby residents.

Officials say that, to minimize disruption, sidewalks and nearby green spaces
will be adjusted for traffic flow, while zhouzi street and ruikang road may
be converted to one-way streets.

Chiang noted that construction on the yellow line has been taking place over
the last 3 years.

Once completed, the mayor says commuters can expect 11 minute travel times
from Neihu Technology Park to Shilin.

According to the mayor, the completion of the eastern section of the Yellow
line is expected to ease Neihu's traffic congestion.

Posted on 2026-02-05 11:23:13

Tigerair Taiwan says, it will launch a new Taichung-Okinawa route next month.

The airline is planning two flights per week in the first phase.

TigerAir says, the service will make it the only Taiwan-based airline
offering direct flights to Okinawa from Taoyuan, Taichung, Tainan, and
Kaohsiung.

The airline says, the flight will leave from Taichung Monday and Friday
mornings, while return flights will leave from Okinawa on Tuesday and
Thursday nights.

Posted on 2026-02-05 11:23:13

Jeremy Lin is set to return to the NBA All-Star Weekend in the US later this
month.

It'll be the retired basketball star's first time playing in the Celebrity
Game.

The NBA unveiled the rosters of the two celebrity teams with the game
scheduled for February 13th in California.

The game will be Lin's second straight year of involvement in the NBA
All-Star Weekend, following his debut as an honorary head coach for the 2025
NBA Rising Stars mini-tournament.

Posted on 2026-02-05 11:23:13

Now turning to international news...

A Chinese asylum seeker who exposed human rights abuses in China has been
released after months in US federal detention.

Guan Heng said that he was in a great mood after being released and reunited
with his mother.

The release came nearly a week after being granted asylum by an immigration
judge who determined that Guan faced a risk of persecution if deported to
China.

Guan's mother, Luo Yun, traveled to the US from Taiwan to support her son.

This marks a rare successful outcome for an asylum seeker since the US
president returned to office.

Guan in 2020 secretly filmed detention facilities in Xinjiang, adding to a
body of evidence of what activists say are widespread rights abuses in China.

In a hearing last week, Guan said that he sympathizes with the Uyghurs and
wanted to bear witness to their plight.

Posted on 2026-02-05 11:23:13

Nigerian officials say, extremists killed 162 people in attacks on 2
villages.

Officials say the assaults happened on Tuesday evening in Woro and Nuku in
the west of the country.

They say, the attacks were carried out by the Lakurawa, a group linked to the
Islamic State.

A Red Cross official confirmed that scores of people were killed.

In a separate incident in Nigeria, gunmen killed 13 peoplein Katsina state.

The US has sent a small military team to the country in response to the
crisis.

Posted on 2026-02-05 11:23:13

The Washington Post has laid off one-third of its staff, eliminating its
sports section, several overseas bureaus, and its books coverage.

The purge is a brutal blow to journalism in the US and one of its most
legendary brands.

Editors called the move painful but necessary to put the outlet on stronger
footing to weather changes in technology and user habits.

Executive Editor Matt Murray outlined the changes in an online meeting, after
which staff members started receiving emails informing them if they were laid
off or not.

Some staff members had hoped that owner and one of the world's richest people
Jeff Bezos would step in and intervene...

but the newspaper had been bleeding subscribers in part due to decisions made
by Bezos himself, like the paper's decision to not endorse Kamala Harris over
Donald Trump in the 2024 election.

Posted on 2026-02-05 09:55:13

U.S. President Donald Trump says he has held a long phone call with Chinese
President Xi Jinping, with topics including trade, military matters, Taiwan,
and a planned visit to China.

Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social that the call was "very
good" and covered many issues, but he did not give details on what was said
about Taiwan.

China's state news agency Xinhua reported that Xi told Trump the Taiwan issue
is the most important issue in U.S.-China relations, and urged the U.S. to
handle arms sales to Taiwan with great care.

Xinhua also reported that Trump said he takes China's concerns on Taiwan
seriously and would work to keep U.S.-China ties stable during his term.

After the call, a White House official, speaking on background, said that
U.S. policy toward Taiwan has not changed.

The official said the U.S. "one China policy" is based on the Taiwan
Relations Act, the three U.S.-China joint communiques, and the Six
Assurances.

Trump mentioned plans to visit China in April, and also listed the
Russia-Ukraine war and the current situation in Iran.

He said China may buy more U.S. oil and natural gas, and increase soybean
purchases this season to 20 million tons.

Trump said relations between the two countries, and his personal relationship
with Xi, remain very good, and he is looking forward to the April trip.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 09:55:13

The Central Weather Administration says a tropical depression east of the
Philippines has strengthened into a typhoon.

The system became a mild typhoon at 8 PM last night and is this year's No. 2
storm, named Penha.

Forecasters say it is expected to move generally westward, and the storm will
NOT have a direct impact on Taiwan.

As of last night, the storm was moving west-southwest at about 24 kilometers
per hour, with top winds near the center of 18 meters per second.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-05 09:55:13

Ukrainian and Russian officials held a first day of new U.S.-brokered talks
in Abu Dhabi, and Kyiv's lead negotiator called it productive.

A U.S. official also described the meetings as productive, and said talks
will continue on Thursday.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the talks must lead to real
peace and not give Russia more time to keep fighting.

Zelenskiy said Ukraine expects the talks to lead to a new prisoner exchange
soon.

As the talks began, Donetsk regional Governor Vadym Filashkin said a Russian
strike hit a crowded market in eastern Ukraine, killing at least 7 people.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said it is significant that technical
military teams from both sides are meeting with U.S. experts involved.

The sides remain far apart, with Russia demanding Ukraine give up more land,
while Ukraine wants the war frozen along current front lines.

Posted on 2026-02-05 09:55:13

U.S. and Iranian officials say they will hold talks in Muscat, Oman, on
Friday.

The two sides remain split on what the talks should cover.

Washington says negotiations must include Iran's missile program and other
issues, not only nuclear matters.

Iran says it will discuss only its nuclear program, and calls its missile
program off the table.

President Donald Trump said Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
"should be very worried," and said Iran is negotiating.

The talks come as the U.S. builds up forces in the Middle East, raising
concern about a wider conflict.

Posted on 2026-02-05 09:55:13

years

The Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington says a female Asian elephant
calf has been born, the first there in almost 25 years.

The zoo says the calf was born on Monday to 12-year-old mother Nhi Linh and
44-year-old father Spike.

A neonatal exam found the calf looked healthy, and weighed about 140
kilograms.

Zoo officials say the calf will help genetic diversity because the parents'
genes are not well represented in zoos.

The calf will spend up to a month bonding off exhibit with her mother, the
herd and keepers before going on public view.

The zoo says the public will choose the calf's name in a poll of 4 options,
ending on February 13.

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:55:14

Orsi

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rebuked the statement issued by the
President of the Oriental Republic supporting the one-China policy.

MOFA says the statement by Uruguay Yamandu Orsi "seriously distorts the
facts,” and reiterated that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each
other.

MOFA says it strongly disagrees with the Uruguayan government for echoing
China’s political position.

President Orsi is visiting China and met Chinese leader Xi Jin-ping today.

The two sides later released a joint statement that included claims that
“Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory”.

MOFA has expressed its strong protest against the Chinese government for
continuing to spread malicious rhetoric internationally that undermines
Taiwan’s sovereignty.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:55:18

Two incumbent County Magistrates have been nominated for reelection by the
ruling DPP.

DPP chairman Lai Ching-te says Zhou Chun-mi (周春米) and Chen Guang-fu
(陳光復) have both performed well during their first term, adding that he has
confidence in them to continue leading Ping-dong and Peng-hu for a brighter
future.

He touted Zhou's warm, caring leadership style, saying that she has
strengthened her county through efforts in cultural branding, long-term care
services, family and parenting policies.

Lai also praised Chen, saying he has worked hard to bring change and drive
local development and his “pragmatic governance” has focused on bringing
the government’s public debt down to zero.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:55:18

Tigerair Taiwan is adding four Airbus A321neo jets to its fleet, marking a
major push toward more fuel-efficient regional travel.

The new aircraft will be configured with 232 seats, allowing the low-cost
carrier to boost capacity on high-demand routes.

Because Tigerair already uses an all-Airbus fleet, the company says the move
will streamline training and maintenance.

To date, the A320neo family has secured more than 10 thousand orders
worldwide as airlines shift toward more sustainable aviation fuels.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:55:18

Meanwhile,

Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin has held a
video call.

Chinese state media didn't immediately provide details about the talks.

The meeting occurred amid Xi's series of discussions with Western leaders.

The British and Canadian prime ministers visited Beijing last month, and the
German chancellor is expected later this month.

European leaders have urged China to end its support for Russia over the war
in Ukraine.

Despite this, China continues to trade with Russia, easing some effects of
Western sanctions.

Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu visited Beijing last
weekend, emphasizing the need for close ties.

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:55:18

And finally,

Talks between the U-S and Iran appear to still be on despite a recent
military engagement.

AP correspondent Ben Thomas reports.

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:54:14

The Ministry of Agriculture says fresh fruit, vegetable and various meat
supplies will be plentiful throughout the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday.

Officials say overall supply levels for produce, seafood, livestock, and
flowers are all significantly higher than usual, helping keep prices largely
stable.

Fruit shipments are up more than twenty percent, with items like wax apples,
mandarins, dates, and other seasonal citrus now in peak season.

Vegetable supplies have also increased by more than thirty percent, led by
cabbage, radishes, and cauliflower.

Seafood supplies are also up more than thirty percent … while pork and
poultry supplies have been boosted to meet holiday demand.

The ministry adds that compared with last year, prices for many fruits,
vegetables, and flowers have actually fallen, easing holiday shopping
pressure for consumers.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:54:14

The government has announced that year-end bonuses for government workers
will be paid out on February 6th, just ahead of the Lunar New Year.

According to the Directorate-General of Personnel Administration, civil
servants, teachers, military personnel, and eligible support staff will
receive a year-end work bonus worth up to one-and-a-half months' salary.

On top of that, performance bonuses could add another half to a full month's
pay, depending on annual evaluations.

Officials say bonus payments are based on time served, and may also apply to
those who retired or left their posts during the year.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:54:14

Miaoli County Police shot and killed a 40-year-old man following a knife
attack at a traditional market.

Officials say the suspect, surnamed Chung, ignored orders to drop his weapon
and continued to move toward people despite the use of pepper spray.

During the confrontation, an officer was stabbed twice in the head,
sustaining a skull fracture.

Police added that a second officer fired two shots, hitting the suspect.

But a bystander was also struck in the hand during the gunfire.

Chung was later pronounced dead at a hospital, while the injured officer is
currently in intensive care with stable vital signs.

Authorities said Chung had a criminal record, including attempted murder, and
local media reported he had a long history of mental illness and substance
abuse.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-02-04 19:54:14

Taipei began construction today on the C-F-710 contract of the Metro Circular
Line's East Ring Line in Neihu Technology Park.

Mayor Chiang Wan-an says the section is a key link between Zhongshan and
Neihu districts.

The project includes 3 underground stations and 4 shield-tunnel segments
along Jingye (敬業) 3rd Road, Lequn (樂群) 2nd Road, and Ruiguang (瑞光)
Road.

City officials say 4 of the East Ring Line's 6 section contracts have now
been awarded.

They say the remaining 2 contracts could be awarded as soon as the end of
this year, with another section, C-F-720, set to start as early as April.

Officials say traffic disruption will grow from the second half of this year
as major wall construction begins.

The city says it may adjust streets near the work zone into paired one-way
routes to ease congestion.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 17:16:13

The field of candidates eyeing the New Taipei Mayor's race is getting crowded.

The opposition TPP has decided to nominate party leader Huang Guo-chang for
the office, and has also passed the first batch of nominees for city and
county councils.

Huang has pledged to give citizens a "whole new New Taipei city", one that
will make them proud.

As the KMT has two potential candidates, Deputy Taipei City Mayor Li Si-chuan
and Deputy New Taipei mayor Liu Ho-ran, vying for nomination, Huang has also
addressed the possibility of cooperation between the blue and white camps.

He says he will approach the situation with “the greatest grace and
sportsmanship,” adding that all healthy competition is a sign of democracy.

Noting that anyone with political ambitions should face the challenge
head-on, Huang says he wants to prove he's the best candidate and the best
choice.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-04 17:16:13

Engineering departments have always been popular university majors, and
according to U-News, programs that combine engineering with AI have become
even more in demand.

U-News is a website dedicated to helping students choose their majors and
better understand individual universities.

The website analyzed nearly 55 million pageviews from the past year to
compile a ranking of the 100 university programs most closely followed by
high school students.

It noted that National Taiwan University continues to enjoy strong brand
appeal, with many of its departments ranking near the top.

In terms of selecting majors, almost all engineering fields, including
electric, materials, mechanical, and chemical engineering, have benefited
from Taiwan's booming semiconductor sector.

Basic science subjects such as physics and chemistry have also attracted a
lot of attention.

U-News said interdisciplinary programs that combine information technology
with finance and economics are in the upper tier of the top 100 university
programs as well, reflecting the recent rise of "fintech".

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-04 14:20:13

The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency says travelers must get approval
before bringing canned bear meat into Taiwan.

It issued this reminder after bear sightings in Japan drew attention and
online users asked about bringing back canned bear meat.

It says products from protected wildlife are tightly controlled under Taiwan
law and international rules.

The agency says violations can bring criminal penalties of up to 5 years in
prison.

It also says offenders can be fined up to $1.5 million NT.

Officials say applications must be filed in advance through the Agriculture
Ministry's online customs and permit platform.

If a CITES-listed species is involved, the agency says an export permit from
the source country is also required.

The agency says reviews can take 3 to 4 weeks, so last-minute purchases
during travel may not get approved in time.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 14:20:14

Taroko National Park says it has reopened parts of the Lushui (綠水)
Recreation Area starting this month.

The park says the area was closed for repairs after the April 3rd earthquake
two years ago.

It says two trails near Tianxiang (天祥) are now partly open, and weekend
guided tours have resumed.

The park says the Lushui Trail is open for about 250 meters to a small
suspension bridge, a 15-minute one-way walk.

It says the Lushui-Wenshan (文山) Trail is open for about 450 meters to
Tuoyouen (陀優恩), taking about 30 minutes one way.

The park also says the Lushui exhibition hall, viewing platforms, and parking
lot have reopened.

Officials say the area is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4 PM, but visitors
should check Highway 8 traffic control times before going.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 14:20:14

Mexico and the United States have reached an agreement for Mexico to send a
minimum amount of water annually to the U.S.

U.S. President Donald Trump had threatened to raise tariffs by five percent
on Mexican imports if more water wasn't delivered.

The new deal requires Mexico to send at least 350,000 acre-feet of water each
year during the current five-year cycle.

The previous treaty required Mexico to deliver 1.75 million acre-feet of
water to the U.S. every five years.

The average annual amount is 350,000 acre-feet, but the U.S. has complained
that Mexico builds up a water debt in the first years of a cycle that hurts
Texas farmers before eventually meeting the treaty requirement.

The United States, in return, gives Mexico even more water from other water
sources farther west along their shared border.

The agreement aims to even out deliveries from Mexico.

Mexican farmers, especially in drought-hit northern states, are concerned
about the impact.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-02-04 14:20:18

In Japan, two weeks of heavy snow is being blamed for 35 deaths so far,
including people suffering sudden heart attacks or slipping while shoveling
snow.

As of today, 15 prefectures have been affected, with up to two meters of snow
piled up in the worst hit areas.

Niigata Prefecture, a rice-growing region, has the biggest number of
snow-related fatalities, at 12 people.

A government spokesperson warned that as the weather gets warmer, more danger
will lie ahead because melting snow can result in landslides and slippery
surfaces.

More heavy snow is forecast for the coming weekend.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-02-04 14:20:18

In the U.S., a Doberman pinscher named Penny won best in show at the
Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

On Tuesday night at New York City's Madison Square Garden. Penny came out on
top after two days, 2,500 dogs, and more than 200 breeds who strutted their
stuff.

The award is considered the most prestigious prize in the U.S. dog show
world.

Each dog is judged according to how closely it matches the ideal for its
breed.

The winner gets a trophy, ribbons, bragging rights and, this year, the
distinction of winning the milestone 150th annual Westminster show.

It's the second win for Penny's handler, who won best in show in 1989 with
another Doberman.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:55:13

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an says the city and Nvidia will sign a contract
before the Lunar New Year to build its Taiwan headquarters.

He says the site will be in Beitou Shilin Technology Park.

Chiang says the city is reviewing land rights and royalties for plots T17 and
T18 today.

He says the process will then move to valuation, negotiations, and final
signing steps.

The Lunar New Year falls on February 17th this year, and Taiwan's holiday
period runs from February 14th to 22nd.

Jensen Huang has just finished a four-day Taiwan visit, including meetings
with major suppliers such as TSMC.

(CNA-PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:55:13

Taipei's Animal Protection Office has compiled a list of more than 30 clinics
that will stay open during the Lunar New Year holiday.

It says the city has 272 animal hospitals in total, and most will be closed
during the holiday.

The office says it often gets calls during the break from owners who cannot
find emergency care.

It urges owners to check nearby clinic information in advance, especially for
pets with chronic illnesses.

It also says owners should call first to confirm hours and appointment rules
to avoid long waits or sudden closures.

Pet owners can access the list by visiting the Taipei City Animal Protection
Office's Mandarin website.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:55:13

Online book retailers have reported fast growth in e-book sales and
subscription services amid the ongoing Taipei International Book Exhibition.

Books.com.tw said its e-book service has posted double-digit growth for eight
consecutive years, with its catalog now exceeding 300-thousand titles.

It noted that new titles in the e-book category added in 2025 were more than
20 percent higher compared with 2024, indicating the steady growth of the
digital reading market.

The company said e-book sales now account for more than 13 percent of the
platform’s overall book sales.

Rakuten Kobo, meanwhile, said it launched a subscription service in 2024,
allowing users unlimited access to more than 2.5 million e-books worldwide
and 300-thousand audiobooks.

It added that subscriber numbers have been doubling each year.

Fubon Multimedia also reported that Momo member figures show overall e-book
sales in the fourth quarter of last year rose by nearly 40 percent
year-on-year.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:55:13

Taiwan shares are up while Asian markets are mixed, with Japan and China
dragging lower by selling of tech-related stocks.

Here in Taiwan, the TaiEx ended up 94 points to end the session at 32,290.

The turnover reached 685.4 billion NT.

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:55:13

In world news,

Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison Holdings says its subsidiary started arbitration
proceedings against Panama after that country’s Supreme Court ruled a
concession for the subsidiary to operate Panama Canal ports was
unconstitutional.

Hutchison, whose Panama Ports Company has operated ports at both ends of the
Panama Canal since 1997, said it strongly disagreed with last week’s ruling.

China warned Panama would pay “a heavy price” if it persisted.

Panama’s president has moved to assure the public that the ports would
operate without interruption after the ruling.

The ruling advances a U.S. aim to block any influence by China over the canal
linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

Panama Ports Company began arbitration proceedings under the rules of the
Paris-based International Chamber of Commerce.

It’s unclear what the impact of the proceedings would be.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:55:13

In Western Australia, a 13-year-old boy swam for four hours in cold and
choppy waters to save his mother and two younger siblings who had been swept
out to sea off the coast.

The family had rented paddleboards and a kayak that were pulled further and
further out to sea as the wind picked up Friday.

Austin Appelbee said Tuesday that he told himself to just keep going during
his 4-kilometer ocean swim back to shore.

His mother, 12-year-old brother and 8-year-old sister were in the water for
about 10 hours before they were rescued.

A police official praised Austin, saying the teenager's "determination and
courage" saved their lives.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:10:13

The Finance Ministry says it has revised various tax deductions, with the
personal exemption raised to $101-thousand NT per person.

Adding that to the standard deduction and the special deduction for salary
income, the tax-free threshold for a single office worker who rents a house
will be $644-thousand NT.

Finance officials say the personal exemption will rise to $151-thousand 500
for those aged 70 and above, and the standard deduction, at $136-thousand.

It will be doubled for taxpayers with a spouse.

People can take advantage of those deductions when filing their personal
income tax returns in May next year.

For those who need to take care of young children or disabled elderly family
members, there are extra tax exemptions if their income falls under a certain
threshold.

Finance officials say the tax system will continue to be reviewed and
adjusted according to consumer price index changes and the nation's economic
sitution.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:10:13

The Travel Quality Assurance Association has released its reasonable group
tour price ranges for the second quarter.

It says Japan and South Korea tour prices are down about 10 to 20 percent
from a year earlier, linked to airfare and hotel factors.

U.S. and Europe tours are up about 10-percent, mainly due to exchange rates.

For Japan, most regions are about 10-percent higher than the first quarter as
spring peak season begins, with cherry blossoms expected from March 22nd.

For South Korea, lower airfares are pushing prices down, with year-on-year
drops of 15 percent for Seoul.

Vietnam tours are down 2 to 5 percent from the first quarter, while Central
Asia and Africa are up 20 to 30 percent due to inflation and higher fuel
costs.

For domestic travel in Taiwan, prices are slightly lower than the first
quarter but up 3 to 5 percent from a year ago.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:10:13

Taiwan Tigerair says it will start a new route from Taichung to Japan's
Okinawa on March 30th.

The service begins with 2 flights a week.

Capacity will be shifted from its existing Taichung-Macau route to support
the new flights.

Tigerair says it will be the only Taiwan-based carrier with direct Okinawa
flights from Taoyuan, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung.

Promotional launch fares go on sale starting today.

Tigerair also says it plans a 30-plane new-generation fleet by 2033 to
improve fuel efficiency.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 13:10:13

In international news,

In Norway, the eldest son of Crown Princess Met-te-Ma-rit has pleaded not
guilty to rape charges as he goes on trial for multiple alleged offenses in a
case that has cast a shadow on the royal family’s image.

Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, is the stepson of the heir to the throne, Crown Prince
Haakon.

He has no royal title or official duties.

Hoiby stood Tuesday as the prosecutor read out the 38 counts against him at
the Oslo district court, asking him if he pleaded guilty.

He replied “no” to the four counts of rape, admitted bodily harm relating
to a woman but denied abuse, and admitted to several other allegations.

The trial opened at a particularly sensitive time.

Mette-Marit faces renewed scrutiny over her past contacts with Jeffrey
Epstein, sex offender and human trafficker, following the release on Friday
of a new batch of documents from the Epstein files.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-02-04 11:15:14

The KMT is pushing back against a US senator's comments stating that he was
"disappointed" that the KMT and TPP had "slashed" a Cabinet-proposed defense
budget.

Senator Roger Wicker said on social media that he was disappointed in the
opposition parties' moves to "dramatically" cut President Lai's proposed
defense budget.

He called on the legislature to reconsider, especially, he says, given
"rising Chinese threats."

In response, the KMT said in a press release that it has "always supported
the defense budget" and said that Wicker's remarks were made with
"insufficient information."

The KMT also rhetorically asked if the US Congress would "approve an
eight-year blank-check budget with no content."

Posted on 2026-02-04 11:15:19

Now turning to international news...

A crash between a speedboat and Greek coast guard patrol vessel has killed at
least 14 people.

A search and rescue operation is underway, involving patrol boats, a
helicopter, and divers.

The speedboat was carrying migrants near the Aegean island of Chios.

The coast guard says, 24 migrants were rescued and taken to a hospital, as
were 2 coast guard officers who were injured.

Local news showed at least one person being carried in a blanket from a coast
guard boat into a rescue vehicle.

Officials did not yet have further information on exactly how the accident
happened.

Posted on 2026-02-04 11:15:15

nationals

Taiwanese banks have been instructed to freeze suspected mule accounts held
by foreign nationals who leave Taiwan under certain circumstances.

Financial Supervisory Commission officials say that those circumstances may
include departing after the expiration or early termination of a work
contract, being reported as missing, or being detained for illegal entry or
unlawful employment.

Banks are now required to cross-reference accounts against a list of departed
foreign nationals provided by the National Immigration Agency.

They may exercise discretion to freeze accounts following a review.

While the policy applied to all foreign nationals, it is mostly aimed at
migrant workers, in response to reports of fraud rings using the accounts of
workers who have departed Taiwan to carry out fraud.

KMT lawmaker Lai Shi Bao previously urged the FSC to mandate account closures
for departing migrant workers...

but the FSC raised concerns that these workers may still need those accounts.

As a result, the FSC says that oustanding payments can be issued by other
means.

Posted on 2026-02-04 11:15:19

Spain says, it will ban social media access for kids under 16.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticized tech companies for allowing harmful
content like child abuse and deepfake images.

He emphasized that governments cannot ignore these issues any longer.

Spain joins countries like Australia and France in working to restrict
minors' social media access.

Sanchez said the ban would require age verficiation systems.

The measure will be added to existing digital protections for minors being
debated in parliament.

Posted on 2026-02-04 11:15:20

A 13 year old boy is being celebrated for saving his family after swimming
for around 4 hours in waters of the coast of Western Australia.

The family rented paddleboards and a kayak that got pulled further and
further out to sea.

The boy said that he just told himself to keep going during his 4 kilometer
swim.

His mother, brother, and sister were in the water for about 10 hours before
they were rescued.

Posted on 2026-02-04 09:55:13

The Ministry of Education says tuition and miscellaneous fees will not rise
for the 2025 to 2027 academic years.

The ministry says the policy follows an Executive Yuan special budget to
support public and private colleges and universities.

Officials estimate the freeze will benefit about 910-thousand students each
year.

The ministry says it is also continuing broader measures to reduce education
costs, including fee reductions, grants, loans, and scholarships.

It says private college students can get up to $35-thousand NT a year in fee
cuts, and disadvantaged students can receive up to NT$55-thousand NT.

The ministry also says students from families earning under $1.2 million NT a
year can get student loans with zero interest while enrolled.

It adds a pilot scholarship for 8-thousand low-income top students in 2025,
paying $8-thousand or $10-thousand NT a month for nine months.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 09:55:13

Weather expert Wu Der-Rong (吳德榮) says Taiwan will stay sunny and stable
through Friday, with big temperature swings between day and night.

He says daytime highs may top 25 degrees, but nights and early mornings will
feel chilly.

Wu says a front is expected to arrive around midnight on Friday, bringing
cold weather to the north.

Over the weekend and into Monday, he says cold air may reach cold-wave
strength, bringing wet and chilly weather to central and northern Taiwan.

Model forecasts suggest Taipei could drop below 10 degrees, and lows on the
main island plains could fall to about 6 degrees.

The Central Weather Administration says today's lowest early-morning
temperature was 10.6 degrees in Fenglin, Hualien.

Wu says a tropical depression southeast of the Philippines may become
Tropical Storm Penha tomorrow, but it is not expected to affect Taiwan.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-02-04 09:55:13

Palestinians gathered on both sides of the Rafah crossing on Tuesday after it
reopened, hoping to pass but facing delays and uncertainty.

On the Egypt side were people who left Gaza earlier in the war for medical
treatment, while patients in Gaza waited for permission to travel out.

Officials in North Sinai said some patients and companions crossed from Gaza
into Egypt, but did not give a number.

A bus carrying about 40 Palestinians entered Gaza and reached Nasser Hospital
in Khan Younis early Wednesday, where families welcomed them.

The first day took more than 10 hours, with only small groups crossing each
way, far below earlier expectations.

The import of humanitarian aid and goods through Rafah remains banned, and
United Nations officials say Rafah must work as a real aid corridor.

Separately, Israel Defense Forces and Gaza health officials gave differing
accounts after a 19-year-old was reported killed by Israeli fire in southern
Gaza on Tuesday.

Posted on 2026-02-04 09:55:13

The man convicted of killing former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in
2022 has appealed his life sentence.

Japanese media say Tetsuya Yamagami filed the appeal on Wednesday in Nara.

A court there sentenced him to life in prison last month.

Prosecutors had sought a life term.

The Nara District Court rejected a defense argument that Yamagami's "tragic"
upbringing should reduce his punishment.

Abe was fatally shot during a campaign event in 2022.

The appeal means the case will now move to a higher court for review.

Posted on 2026-02-04 09:55:13

French police raided the X office in Paris on Tuesday as prosecutors widened
an investigation into the platform.

French prosecutors say the probe started in January last year over suspected
algorithm abuse and fraudulent data extraction.

Prosecutors say the case now also covers alleged distribution of child sexual
abuse images and sexually explicit deepfakes linked to the Grok chatbot.

Billionaire Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino were summoned for a
hearing on April 20, according to the prosecutor's office.

X says French authorities are pressuring its U.S. leadership and ignoring
normal legal channels, while Musk called it a political attack.

In United Kingdom, the privacy watchdog Information Commissioner's Office
opened a formal probe into Grok over personal data and harmful sexualized
images.

The European Union has also launched its own investigation into X over
illegal content linked to Grok.

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