ICRT

Posted on 2026-09-03 16:24:13

A Taiwan national security official says China and Russia are increasingly
coordinating information operations targeting countries including Taiwan and
Japan.

The official says the two countries are using each other's media networks,
organizations and other channels to amplify selected political narratives.

Russian outlets are also said to have echoed Chinese messaging on
international issues.

Taiwanese authorities are monitoring whether Russian-linked groups could help
Beijing reach local actors in Taiwan or provide resources for influence
activities.

However, officials have not publicly released evidence establishing this
specific China-Russia arrangement.

Taiwan says it is working with partner countries to monitor foreign
information manipulation and interference.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-03 16:24:13

Bus rides in Taipei and New Taipei will be free on Sept. 22 to mark World
Car-Free Day.

The offer covers 719 city bus routes under the two governments, with
passengers able to board without tapping a transit card or paying cash.

Bus operators say they will increase service capacity and station staff at
major stops and transfer points to handle additional passengers.

Officials estimate the two systems currently carry around 2 million passenger
trips a day and hope ridership will rise by 5 to 10 percent during the event.

Highway buses are not included.

The two city governments expect to spend a combined 50-million N.T.
subsidizing the free rides.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-03 16:24:13

A Kaohsiung temple is offering accommodation for up to 240 BTS fans during
the group's three concerts in November.

Fudingjin Bao'an Temple (覆鼎金保安宮) says fans with concert tickets can apply in
groups of five to 16 to stay in its pilgrim lodging building.

Guests will be asked to make a small temple donation and pay a cleaning fee.

The temple will not arrange groups, and fans must show their concert tickets
when checking in.

BTS is scheduled to perform at Kaohsiung National Stadium on November 19th,
21st and 22nd.

Guests can also take part in a temple prayer activity and write wishes for
the concerts on special prayer cards.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-03 16:24:13

North Korea has revised the rules of its ruling Workers' Party to give leader
Kim Jong Un more explicit control over senior appointments and party
organizations, according to a South Korean security institute.

The rules were adopted at the party's Ninth Congress in February.

The Institute for National Security Strategy says Kim now has clearly stated
authority to appoint or dismiss key officials, expel party members and
dissolve party bodies.

The revisions also allow the Politburo to make major wartime decisions when
authorized by the Central Committee.

The institute says references to the achievements of Kim's father and
grandfather were removed, further emphasizing Kim's leadership.

The minimum age for party membership was also raised from 18 to 20.

Posted on 2026-09-03 16:24:13

Belgium recorded nearly 3-thousand more deaths than expected during three
heatwaves this summer.

Public health institute Sciensano says 2-thousand-935 excess deaths were
recorded between June 18th and August 16th, or about 23 percent above
expected levels.

The worst period was from June 18th to July 3rd, when mortality was nearly 49
percent higher than expected.

Sciensano says that was the highest excess mortality during a Belgian
heatwave since its analysis began in 2000.

People aged 65 and older accounted for most of the deaths, although excess
mortality was also recorded among younger people.

Posted on 2026-09-03 16:24:13

Schools across the Philippines have taken part in a nationwide safety drill
following two recent school shootings.

At a high school in Bulacan province, students practiced locking and
barricading classroom doors, switching off lights and sheltering out of
sight.

The Department of Education says the exercise was designed to prepare schools
for active threats without using realistic gunman reenactments that could
distress students.

Schools also practiced coordinating with police, evacuating students,
conducting headcounts and treating simulated casualties.

The drill follows an August 18 shooting in the southern Philippines that left
two students dead, including the alleged gunman.

Another school shooting in June killed three people.

Posted on 2026-09-03 15:56:13

China says it carried out a three-week seabed survey in waters east of Taiwan
last month, as Beijing steps up activity in the area.

China's Ministry of Natural Resources says the survey ran from August 10th to
31st and collected data on seabed terrain, sediment and deep geological
structures.

China also sent coast guard ships to waters east of Taiwan today, calling the
operation a routine law enforcement patrol.

Taiwan's Coast Guard says it monitored the Chinese vessels and rejected
Beijing's claim of jurisdiction over waters around Taiwan.

The patrol was China's third announced operation of its kind east of Taiwan
since June.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-03 15:56:13

Taiwan's nuclear regulator says it has completed its technical review of a
plan that could eventually lead to the restart of the Third Nuclear Power
Plant.

The Nuclear Safety Commission says the plan is now going through final
administrative procedures.

The Nuclear Safety Commission says the plan is now going through final
administrative procedures.

Taipower would first have to restore equipment, complete safety inspections
and submit further reports for regulatory review before receiving a renewed
operating license.

Taipower says it expects to gradually restore the plant's equipment to
operable condition between this year and next.

The development has sparked another political dispute over nuclear energy.

The KMT says President Lai Ching-te should apologize for the DPP's previous
nuclear-free policy.

The DPP says the government's position has not changed, and any return to
nuclear power still requires safety, a solution for nuclear waste and public
consensus.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-03 15:56:13

The Ministry of Labor has launched a third application phase for its hourly
migrant caregiver pilot program to expand coverage nationwide.

The ministry says its pilot program allows families to hire temporary, hourly
caregivers through non-profit organizations to meet urgent or short-term home
care needs.

Official data shows the initiative has logged over 100,000 service hours,
reaching more than 10,000 residents across 16 counties and cities.

Applications for new non-profit service providers close on Sept. 24-th, with
expanded nationwide operations set to begin early next year.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-03 15:56:13

Nepal says around 20-thousand homes may need to be rebuilt after last week's
catastrophic flooding, as rescuers continue searching for thousands of
missing people.

Authorities say at least 1-thousand-204 people were killed and more than
4-thousand-200 remain missing.

Officials say many surviving homes are unsafe and some communities will need
to be relocated rather than rebuilt in the same high-risk areas.

Search teams are also continuing efforts to reach workers believed trapped in
tunnels at hydropower projects.

UNICEF says at least 22-thousand children in affected areas urgently need
safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene support.

Posted on 2026-09-03 15:56:13

Iran has warned the United States it could launch a large-scale attack if
Israel mounts a full offensive on a Hezbollah-held ridge in southern Lebanon,
according to three officials briefed on the message.

The Ali al-Taher ridge has become a major flashpoint in the Israel-Hezbollah
conflict.

Two regional officials say more than a dozen members of Iran's Revolutionary
Guards are there with Hezbollah fighters, although Reuters could not
independently verify their presence. An Israeli military assessment
reportedly disputes that claim.

A White House official also rejected Reuters' account of the Iranian warning
as inaccurate.

Israel says Hezbollah recently launched explosive drones toward its troops
near the ridge, while Hezbollah says a large-scale Israeli assault could
trigger renewed full-scale war.

Posted on 2026-09-03 15:56:13

A U.S. federal judge has blocked President Donald Trump's latest attempt to
restrict birthright citizenship.

Judge Deborah Boardman issued a preliminary injunction covering children in
an existing class-action lawsuit.

Trump's August order sought to deny automatic citizenship in several cases,
including some involving foreign government employees and so-called birth
tourism.

Boardman said the order is likely unconstitutional as applied to the class
because the Supreme Court ruled in June that children born in the United
States to parents unlawfully or temporarily in the country are citizens at
birth.

The administration argued the challenge was premature because agencies had
not yet issued implementation guidance.

Federal agencies can still prepare that guidance, but cannot deny citizenship
to children covered by the injunction.

Posted on 2026-09-03 12:23:13

Guatemala's interior minister has reaffirmed his country's diplomatic support
for Taiwan during a four-day visit.

Marco Antonio Villeda says President Bernardo Arévalo remains firmly
committed to relations with Taiwan, which he called an important development
partner.

Taiwan has provided Guatemala with more than 500 police motorcycles to
improve the mobility of its security forces.

Taiwan's Investigation Bureau has also trained 15 Guatemalan law enforcement
personnel in cybersecurity and cybercrime investigations.

Villeda says that expertise is particularly useful as Guatemala deals with
cyberattacks from abroad.

Taiwan and Guatemala have maintained diplomatic relations for more than nine
decades.

Guatemalan officials have repeatedly pledged to support Taiwan's
participation in international organizations.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-03 12:23:13

The Health Ministry plans to launch a pilot program by the end of the year to
ease chronic emergency department overcrowding at two major medical centers.

The move follows the death of an 85-year-old woman who spent 12 days in the
emergency department at National Taiwan University Hospital waiting for a
regular inpatient bed.

Officials say the program will focus on NTU Hospital and Linkou Chang Gung
Memorial Hospital.

The National Health Insurance Administration is also discussing changes to
payments for patients temporarily held in emergency departments, along with
stronger incentives for hospitals to transfer suitable patients to
lower-level facilities.

Health officials say another goal is to build public confidence in receiving
hospitals, as patients sometimes refuse transfers.

The ministry also plans to make greater use of home-based acute care to
reduce unnecessary hospital admissions.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-03 12:23:13

A taxi driver has been arrested after ramming his vehicle into the front
entrance of the Taipei District Prosecutors Office early this morning.

Police apprehended the driver at the scene around 5:45 a.m. and impounded his
taxi, which was painted with anti-judiciary slogans.

Authorities confirmed no one was injured in the crash and that tests showed
the suspect was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Investigators say the suspect was protesting an unfavorable court decision
issued Wednesday, having expressed his frustration on social media before
driving to the building.

He was transferred for further questioning on charges including obstructing
official duties, endangering public safety, and property damage.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-03 12:23:13

Iran says 18 people were killed and more than 100 wounded in the latest U.S.
strikes, as renewed fighting raises concern over civilian casualties.

The Iranian Red Crescent says four people were killed and 67 wounded when a
strike hit a wedding gathering near the Strait of Hormuz.

The U.S. military says it never targets civilians and says reports about the
wedding originated with Iranian state media.

Iran has meanwhile launched missiles and drones at what it says are U.S.
targets across several Middle Eastern countries.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says he is deeply alarmed by the
reported civilian casualties and is calling for an immediate end to military
action.

Posted on 2026-09-03 12:23:13

China's Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang says Beijing sees broad prospects for
expanding cooperation with Russia in its Far East.

Ding made the comments during talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in
Vladivostok on Wednesday.

China's state-run Xinhua news agency says Ding called for closer coordination
between development plans for northeast China and Russia's Far East.

He also called for stronger cooperation in areas including investment and
energy.

Putin welcomed Ding to the Eastern Economic Forum and said Russia wants to
strengthen strategic coordination with China.

The meeting comes just days after Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met
at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Bishkek.

Posted on 2026-09-03 12:23:13

UNICEF estimates about 20 million internet-using children across 21 countries
experienced sexual exploitation or abuse online within a one-year period.

The study found nearly 60 percent of reported cases involved social media
platforms.

More than half involved someone the child already knew, while fewer than one
percent were reported to police, social workers or helplines.

UNICEF is calling for stronger online safeguards, updated laws and better
support systems.

Posted on 2026-09-03 11:07:13

A report is pointing out that key upstream materials of domestically made
drones still comes from China despite the government's push to establish
non-Chnese supply chains.

That report also says that stable export demand for Taiwan-made drones
remains unsteady.

The report by the Research Institute for Democracy, Society and Emerging
Technology notes that exports of Taiwan-made drones increased from just under
3500 in 2024 to nearly 123,000 last year.

The main export markets include Poland, the Czech Republic, and the US, with
large orders this year also coming from the Middle East.

But analysts note that part of European demand is tied to the ongoing
invasion of Ukraine, which may not translate into a sustained post-conflict
demand.

Meanwhile, the report points out that Taiwan continues to source some chips
and software from overseas.

But even with governmetn funding to develop local alternatives, it would take
2-3 years to begin mass production.

Posted on 2026-09-03 11:07:13

Taiwan Sports Lottery made 8.93 billion NT in bets during the 2026 Men's
World Cup, marking the second-highest total in the company's history for the
tournament.

For the first time, online betting surpassed in-person bets...

with the share of bets placed by women rising sharply to 35%.

The company president claims that the sharp rise in women's participation was
due to a promotional campaign offering luxury handbags as raffle prizes.

Taiwan Sports Lottery has recorded 60 billion NT in total betting so far this
year and is targeting a record 84 billion by the end of the year.

Posted on 2026-09-03 11:07:13

Now turning to international news...

China is threatening to boycott Korea's Gwangju Biennale over the name of the
Taiwan pavilion...

which was changed from "Taiwan" and then changed back again.

The pavilion was originally named "Taiwan," in step with other countries'
pavilions, before the organization changed the name to NTMoFA, which is short
for National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts.

But strong pushback from Taiwan and local artists in Korea prompted the
organization to change the name back to Taiwan ahead of the event's opening
this weekend.

But now, China is reportedly threatening to not participate.

Nikkei Asia reports that the Gwangju Biennale apologized to Beijing, saying
that the name of the pavilion did not amount to regonition of Taiwan as a
country.

Artists in Gwangju previously noted that the dispute was particularly salient
given the history of the Gwangju uprising less than 50 years ago.

Posted on 2026-09-03 11:07:13

after more than 500 fall ill

500 students have fallen ill from a suspected food poisoning incident in
Indonesia...

amidst ongoing controversy over the school lunch program in the country.

Reuters News Agency is reporting that the students are believed to have
gotten food poisoning from free meals provided by the government.

Officials say an investigation is underway.

President Prabowo Subianto launched his multibillion-dollar programme last
year to eradicate under-nutrition by giving free meals to tens of millions of
children.

But the plan has been plagued by food poisoning, corruption allegations,
leadership changes, and a hefty price tag.

Officials say the 512 students in East Java got sick after lunch Tuesday,
with 80 of them still receiving treatment.

This comes as the new head of the agency in charge of the program has vowed
to reform it. z

The agency has recently been through a number of recent changes in leadership,

Posted on 2026-09-03 11:07:13

A US journalist has been sentenced to two years in prison for working for the
Chinese government.

The US Justice Department says that the man pleaded guilty earlier this year
and is not planning to appeal.

The case is the latest in a series of federal prosecutions involving people
accused of working for the Chinese government without proper disclosure.

The man worked as a journalist for various Chinese news organizations after
moving to China in 2010...

including state broadcaster CCTV.

Court documents indicate that he worked at the direction of people he knew
worked for China's government for at least 6 years...

making over 100,000 dollars in gains.

Posted on 2026-09-02 19:17:14

Taipei prosecutors have indicted 57 people over an alleged romance scam that
defrauded more than 20-thousand people of at least 900 million NT.

Prosecutors say the group used fake dating profiles, bogus sales pitches and
AI voice-cloning technology to target victims.

The group allegedly built romantic relationships with victims before asking
them for money, gifts and payments for various products and services.

Women involved in the operation also allegedly met some victims in person and
collected cash and expensive gifts.

Prosecutors say an engineer developed software that allowed members of the
group to imitate the voices of women involved in the scheme during phone
calls.

The alleged ring was led by a man surnamed Huang and his wife, surnamed Hsu.

Prosecutors are seeking prison terms of at least 25 years for Huang and 18
years for Hsu.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-02 19:17:14

Germany's state of Saxony is stepping up efforts to attract Taiwanese
semiconductor companies, as it prepares for TSMC-backed chip production in
Dresden.

Speaking at SEMICON Taiwan 2026, Saxon State Minister Dirk Panter said the
region's well-established chip industry gives it an edge in attracting
Taiwanese investment.

But Panter says attracting companies is only part of the effort.

As Taiwanese engineers and their families move to Saxony for the TSMC-backed
ESMC project, he says the state also wants to make sure they feel at home.

Meanwhile, the German Pavilion at this year's SEMICON Taiwan has a record 31
participating organizations, up from 18 last year.

And construction of the ESMC chip plant in Dresden is underway, with
production expected to begin by the end of 2027.

(TB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 19:17:14

Congo's Ebola outbreak has killed more than 3,000 people, with the virus
continuing to spread faster than health authorities can contain it.

The Health Ministry also confirmed the outbreak has resulted in almost 6
thousand 200 confirmed cases since it was declared in mid-May.

The outbreak remains the fastest-growing Ebola epidemic on record, with
conflict in eastern Congo making it harder to track and contain the virus.

The reopening of schools during the outbreak has also raised concerns about
further transmission in classrooms.

Posted on 2026-09-02 18:32:13

New Taipei City health officials have ordered a clinic to suspend operations
after 11 people were diagnosed with acute Hepatitis C, all of whom had
received injections there.

The cases were uncovered after two members of the same family tested positive
in August, prompting an investigation that eventually identified eight more
patients linked to the clinic.

Authorities are contacting more than 1,100 people who received injections at
the clinic between July last year and August 27, asking them to undergo blood
tests.

An inspection found nine problems with infection control, including poor hand
hygiene and unsafe practices for preparing medication for injections.

Officials found needles left in medication vials and reused to draw up drugs,
as well as pre-filled syringes stored outside treatment areas, although there
is no clear evidence of shared injection needles.

All 11 confirmed patients have recovered and been discharged, while the
clinic was fined 300-thousnad NT and ordered to suspend all operations until
it passes a follow-up inspection.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-02 18:32:13

A new survey suggests Taiwanese children and teenagers are spending far more
time online than they do exercising.

Researchers at National Chengchi University say young people spend more than
31 hours a week online using computers, and almost 31 hours on smartphones.

By comparison, they spend fewer than 10 hours a week exercising.

The researchers warn that this can leave children vulnerable to online risks,
including scams and sexual exploitation.

They found that while most children know they should protect their personal
information, many struggle to manage their screen time and identify people
they meet online.

D-P-P lawmaker Chiu Chih-wei (邱志偉) is calling for more government funding and
stronger policies to help children better deal with online risks.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-02 18:32:13

Some popular seafood items are seeing price changes ahead of the Mid-Autumn
Festival ... even as supplies are generally stable.

The Fisheries Agency says clam prices are up about seven to 10 percent from a
year ago ...

... after Typhoon Danas last year damaged clam farms ... and caused many
clams to die later on, reducing this year's supply.

Saury prices are also expected to rise ... as last year's unusually large
catch pushed prices down, while this year's catch has returned to more normal
levels.

In contrast, Taiwan tilapia wholesale prices have fallen nearly 15 percent
from a year ago ...

.... amid weaker export demand and a mix-up in food safety testing in
Kaohsiung that affected consumer confidence.

Overall, the agency says seafood supplies are sufficient to meet the expected
increase in demand ahead of the holiday.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-02 18:23:13

An advisory for travelers planning a trip to Thailand... visa-free stays are
being cut in half starting September 15th.

Thailand announced it will reduce its visa-free period for citizens of 60
countries, including Taiwan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada
and Australia, from 60 days to 30 days.

The change was published in Thailand's Royal Gazette earlier this week.

Thailand's Interior Ministry said the revised rules reflect current
circumstances, taking into account national security, economic considerations
and tourism promotion.

The new policy also cuts the number of countries eligible for visas on
arrival from 31 to three, while Mauritius and Seychelles will receive a
15-day visa exemption.

The changes take effect September 15-th.

Posted on 2026-09-02 18:23:13

An iconic traditional event returns to Kinmen but with a twist this year...

From now through September 25th, the Kinmen County government hosts the “2026
Kinmen Mid-Autumn Bó Zhuàngyuán Festival.”

Bó Zhuàngyuán Bǐng is an important traditional folk custom in Kinmen and is
an intangible cultural heritage.

This year's event links local shopping districts, tourist attractions, local
specialty industries, and activities throughout the townships.

A variety of online and in-person Bó Bǐng experiences will be offered,
creating an almost month-long Mid-Autumn cultural carnival.

People from across Taiwan are invited to visit Kinmen during the Mid-Autumn
season, roll the dice for good luck, and experience this centuries-old
tradition.

Posted on 2026-09-02 16:45:13

SEMI says artificial intelligence could push global semiconductor revenue
toward 2-trillion U.S. dollars by 2030, with Taiwan expected to play a
central role in that growth.

SEMI President and CEO Ajit Manocha made the forecast as SEMICON Taiwan 2026
opened in Taipei.

He says growing demand for AI inference will require more memory, higher
bandwidth, advanced packaging and silicon photonics.

But Manocha says the expansion is also creating challenges, particularly for
electricity supplies and skilled workers.

He says roughly 70 chip fabs are currently under construction worldwide,
alongside a growing number of data centers.

Manocha also says President Lai Ching-te told him Taiwan would have
sufficient electricity through at least 2035.

This year's SEMICON Taiwan features more than 1,300 exhibitors and 4,300
booths.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 16:45:13

Free tickets for Taiwan's 2026 National Day Gala in New Taipei will become
available online this Saturday.

The event will be held at Banqiao First Stadium from 6 p.m. on October 9th,
with more than 9,000 seats available.

The lineup includes Golden Melody Award winners SANGPUY, Enno Cheng and
ZiXuan Huang.

Japanese singer Maki Ohguro, known for performing an ending theme for Slam
Dunk, will also appear, along with Indonesia's Grrrl Gang and South Korean
singer-songwriter Lang Lee.

Tickets will be available through KKTIX from 1 p.m. on September 5th, with a
limit of two per person.

Organizers are encouraging people to take public transportation to the venue.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 16:45:13

Venus and the bright star Spica will appear close together in Taiwan's
evening sky on Thursday.

The Taipei Astronomical Museum says the two will reach conjunction at 11:21
a.m., when they will be about 1.5 to 2 degrees apart.

That happens during daylight in Taiwan, so the best chance to see them will
come after sunset.

The museum recommends looking low toward the west-southwest from an open
location until around 7:30 p.m.

Venus should be easy to spot first because of its brightness, with Spica
becoming visible as the sky gets darker.

The pair can be seen with the naked eye, while binoculars should make it
easier to view both together.
(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 16:45:13

Possible Life Sentence

Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong has pleaded guilty to conspiracy
to collude with foreign forces — his second conviction under the territory's
national security law.

The twenty-nine-year-old is already serving a prison sentence of more than
four years for subversion and had been due for release early next year, but
the fresh conviction could add years behind bars.

The charge relates to alleged efforts in 2020 to persuade foreign governments
and organisations to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China.

Posted on 2026-09-02 16:45:13

Warming

In a strategic retreat, the United Nations concedes that Earth has lost its
chance to prevent some of the worst impacts of global warming.

A report released today by the United Nations Environment Programme reveals
that the planet will soon exceed the temperature threshold set by the 2015
Paris climate accord.

Instead of giving up, scientists and U.N. officials recommend limiting
excessive warming and then bringing temperatures back down.

It's called overshoot.

This involves slashing fossil fuel use and finding ways to remove carbon
dioxide from the air and storing it somewhere.

The report said the traditional approach of this is planting more trees, but
it says planting trees could, at most, shave a tenth of one degree Celsius
off global temperatures.

The authors said more novel carbon removal approaches will be needed.

In the meantime, the world will face decades of increased disasters, rising
seas, and extinctions.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-09-02 16:18:13

The Ministry of Health and Welfare says, the new "health token" incentive
program will be open to any adult enrolled in the national health insurance
program...

including foreign nationals.

The Health Promotion Administration previously said that the program would be
open only to Taiwanese nationals.

The program rewards those who participate in designated health activities
like checkups and screenings with programs for each activity.

Minister Shi Chong Liang says, negotiations regarding usage of the tokens
with several retailers have been completed...

but details on the rewards have yet to be finalized and will be announced
later thsi month.

The HPA previously provided examples of how many tokens can be earned, saying
a health check will earn 800 tokens, while certain kinds of cancer screenings
would get 1000.

Then, they said at the time, participants could redeem the tokens at a rate
of 1 NT per token at participanting supermarkets.

（AH-CNA）

Posted on 2026-09-02 16:18:13

Police in Germany have responded to an explosion near Augsburg's main train
station.

Officials say an unidentified object exploded in a building passageway, and
that several people were injured.

Road traffic and public transit in the area were disrupted, and police
completely closed the train station.

Another suspicious object was later found nearby.

Further details were not yet available.

Posted on 2026-09-02 16:18:13

Nikkei Asia is reporting that a data center boom in Asia is leading to public
backlash.

Protesters are concerned about how data centers, driven by rising demand for
AI, will be powered.

Across Asia, data center demand stood at 28 gigawatts last year, making up
one third of the global total.

Plus, some experts expect capacity to triple by 2030.

At the same time, energy demand is quickly rising, with some predicting data
center electricity consumption in Asia to more than double by 2030.

In Australia, rising discontent led the government to require data centers to
pay for their own power supply and the cost of connecting to the grid.

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:34:14

Travel agencies will now face fines if they fail to help tour groups to China
complete pre-trip registration.

That's according to the Tourism Administration, which says that violators
will face fines of up to 50,000 NT.

This comes after the Mainland Affairs Council says that China will put into
place new rules for travelers going into and out of the country.

The council has warned that these rules will "significantly increase" the
personal safety risks for Taiwanese people traveling to China.

They're urging "high-risk" individuals to carefully assess the necessity of
their trip and to register their trip ahead of time just in case.

As of yesterday, travel agencies are now required to assist travelers in
filling out their pre-trip registrations.

Agencies must also inform travelers of the potential risks of trips to China.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:34:14

TSMC plans to build an advanced packaging testing and research hub at
Kaohsiung's Baipu Industrial Park.

The chipmaker says the three-hectare site will include cleanrooms,
laboratories and a training center for semiconductor specialists.

TSMC Vice President Jun He says the facility will speed up testing and
validation of advanced packaging materials and equipment by an estimated 25
to 50 percent.

The project is being developed with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and
Kaohsiung City Government, and is also intended to help local suppliers enter
global semiconductor supply chains.

The expansion comes as AI drives strong demand for advanced packaging.

TSMC expects its CoWoS packaging capacity to grow by more than 80 percent a
year through 2027.

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:34:14

The Taiwan High Court has upheld the acquittal of a man prosecuted over a
social media comment made after last December's deadly knife attack in
Taipei.

The man, surnamed Tang, wrote on Threads, "Someone actually did what I wanted
to do!"

Prosecutors charged him with an offense involving putting the public in fear.

But the Taoyuan District Court found the comment did not amount to a threat
because Tang did not say that he or anyone else intended to harm people.

The High Court agreed, noting Tang deleted the comment shortly afterward and
made no further related statements.

It rejected prosecutors' appeal, making the acquittal final.

The December 19th attack killed three victims and injured several others.

The attacker, Chang Wen (張文), also died.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:34:14

A confidential U.N. report says Syria was constructing a nuclear reactor in
Deir el-Zour under ousted former President Bashar Assad.

The report was seen Tuesday by the Associated Press.

Inspectors with the U.N. nuclear watchdog visited several sites in Syria in
August and carried out verification work.

The International Atomic Energy Agency reported that it was able to establish
that the former Syrian authorities had failed to report information on
nuclear material, facilities and activities as required under the Safeguards
Agreement of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

This information included a nuclear reactor under construction, a fuel
fabrication plant, and another site used for fuel storage.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:07:13

The Central Weather Administration is warning of heavy rain today in Taitung
and the south after the resurgence of Tropical Storm Saudel.

The CWA says, the former typhoon is expected to bring heavy rain to those
areas today, while areas north of Hsinchu can also expect to get hit
tomorrow.

Regarding Saudel, the CWA says the storm is weakening as it heads towards
China, and the chance of Taiwan putting out a sea warning remains quite low.

They also note that the outlook regarding rain is expected to improve next
week, with drier conditions supposedly on the way.

Meanwhile the CWA has put into place a heavy rain advisory for all of
Taitung, in addition to the mountainous regions of Pingtung and the Hengchun
peninsula.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:07:13

Taipei prosecutors have indicted a man who allegedly made threatening
comments ahead of a KMT/TPP rally in July.

The man, surnamed Chen, was charged with intimidating the public for posting
a comment tha read "kill all KMT and TPP supporters."

Prosecutors say that the rally took place July 25th, and that Chen left the
message on TVBS' facebook page on the 22nd.

Prosecutors emphasize that Chen stated his intention to harm people and
encouraged others to do the same...

thus indicting him for intimidating the public.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:07:14

Taiwan independence advocates and several smaller political parties are
calling for Taiwan's future to be determined by its own people.

The comments come ahead of the 75th anniversary of the signing of the San
Francisco Peace Treaty on September 8th.

Under the 1951 treaty, Japan renounced all claims to Taiwan and Penghu, but
the document did not name a recipient of those territories.

Representatives from four parties in the Taiwan Gogo Front say Beijing is
also using competing interpretations of history and international law to
portray Taiwan as a domestic Chinese issue.

The groups argue Taiwan should strengthen international understanding of its
democratic system and the principle of self-determination.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:07:14

Taiwan shares are sharply down today, with the benchmark tai ex losing 784
points to close the session at 46164.

The turnover was 918 billion NT

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:07:14

Now turning to international news...

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to collude
with foreign forces to endanger national security.

That's under the Beijing-imposed "national security" law that has crushed the
pro-democracy movement in the city.

Wong has been prosecuted twice under the law.

He faces up to life in prison and is expected to be sentenced at a later
date.

Critics say, the case shows authorities' determination to silence prominent
dissidents.

Wong has already been serving a nearly five year prison term aftering
pleading guilty in a separate national security case.

Pleading guilty could result in a reduced sentence.

Before the arrest for the collusion-related offense in June 2025, Wong had
been expected to be freed in January next year.

Posted on 2026-09-02 14:07:14

In the US,

Tropical Storm Edouard has knocked out power to thousands of people and
flooded roads.

The storm made landfall in Louisiana and is now slamming southeastern Texas.

The storm arrived with maximum sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour but
has weakened as it moves through Texas.

Officials say the storm is expected to dump 8 to 17 centimeters of rain,
which could produce flash flooding and river flooding.

That's as several storms are still brewing in the Pacific Ocean, including
one that reached hurricane strength.

Posted on 2026-09-02 12:27:13

Fourteen typhoons formed in the Northwest Pacific in July and August, tying
the highest number on record for the two-month period.

The Central Weather Administration says that's well above the average of
about nine.

A total of 22 typhoons have formed since the start of the year, making 2026
the third-most active January-to-August period since records began in 1958.

The CWA says Taiwan could still be affected by one or two typhoons this
autumn, although the number passing near the island is expected to be normal
to below normal.

With El Niño strengthening, temperatures this autumn are forecast to be
normal to above normal.

The CWA also says Taiwan has a greater chance of a warmer winter, followed by
above-normal spring rainfall next year.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 12:27:13

The Ministry of Education has purchased 8-thousand rapid saliva drug tests
for use in schools once lawmakers approve the necessary legal changes.

The tests are intended to improve detection of emerging drugs such as
etomidate, which can be difficult to identify through urine tests alone.

The ministry says there are no plans for universal screening.

Testing would remain limited to designated high-risk cases, including
students with previous drug-related records or those schools have specific
reasons to suspect of drug use.

Schools would also have to follow rules covering privacy, consent and
follow-up counseling.

The Cabinet approved amendments in June that would add saliva to the types of
samples allowed for drug testing.

The changes still require approval by the Legislative Yuan.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 12:27:13

The Freeway Bureau is urging drivers to avoid peak travel times during the
four-day Mid-Autumn Festival and Teachers' Day holiday later this month.

The holiday runs from September 25th through the 28th.

For southbound travel on western freeways on the first two days, motorists
are advised to leave before 6 a.m. or after noon.

Drivers heading south on Freeway Number 5 should leave before 5 a.m. or after
5 p.m.

For northbound trips on September 27th and 28th, drivers leaving southern
Taiwan should depart before 9 a.m., while those leaving central Taiwan should
leave before noon.

Northbound traffic on Freeway Number 5 is expected to build from 9 a.m. from
September 26th through the 28th.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-02 12:27:13

In international news,

In Nepal and China, rescue teams are continuing to search for thousands of
people still missing after last week's catastrophic flooding, as the death
toll exceeds 1,000.

As police in Kathmandu buried dozens of bodies in multiple trenches, Nepal's
disaster agency reported 987 deaths and 3,916 missing, including 583
foreigners.

China has reported 16 deaths and 546 missing.

The scale of the August 26 disaster is hampering rescue efforts, with
landslides and destroyed roads cutting off remote areas.

In Nepal, rescuers are racing to reach hundreds of hydropower workers trapped
in tunnels.

The disaster began with a chain of events high in the Himalayas.

A glacial collapse sent large amounts of rock, ice and meltwater into valleys
below, triggering powerful floods downstream.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-09-02 12:27:13

China’s President Xi Jinping is visiting Egypt this week for the first time
in a decade.

The trip illustrates China’s growing ambitions in the Middle East at a time
when U.S. influence has been weakened by its war against Iran.

Xi aims to present China as a stabilizer in the region in contrast to the
U.S., which for decades has been militarily entangled there.

Egypt views its relationship with China as a way to attract investment and
diversify its strategic partnerships.

China has invested over $318 billion N-T in Egypt, building a business hub
and an electric rail line for industry.

Annual trade between the two countries is an estimated $636 billion N-T.

The Suez Canal, controlled by Egypt, is another reason for China to
strengthen ties with the country.

Because oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have been heavily
disrupted by the Iran war, the Suez Canal has become an important
alternative.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-09-02 08:32:13

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has hit back at Chinese warnings regarding
Taiwan’s participation in the Pacific Islands Forum summit in Palau.

Lin attended the opening ceremony of the 55th PIF Leaders Meeting, which
began in the state of Koror on Sunday and runs through Friday.

Speaking to reporters, the minister rejected threats from China's Pacific
envoy, emphasizing that Taiwan has been an active development partner in the
region for over three decades.

Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr. stated that Beijing retaliated against
Palau by discouraging Chinese tourists from visiting the island nation.

Lin dismissed China’s safety claims against Palau and pledged that Taiwan
will actively promote travel to the Pacific nation to offset Beijing's
economic pressure.

Posted on 2026-09-02 08:32:13

President Lai Ching-te on Tuesday welcomed the largest-ever cross-party
Italian parliamentary delegation to visit Taiwan, led by Italian Senate Vice
President Gian Marco Centinaio.

The 10-member delegation includes members of both houses of the Italian
Parliament from ruling and opposition parties.

Lai noted that Italy is Taiwan's fourth-largest trading partner within the
European Union and said the two sides have highly complementary industrial
strengths.

Centinaio said many Italian parliamentarians believe that "helping Taiwan
is helping the entire world," stressing the importance of maintaining the
status quo across the Taiwan Strait.

"

The delegation, which is visiting Taiwan through Saturday, will also meet
with Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang and former President Tsai
Ing-wen, and hold talks with officials from several ministries.

The group will also visit Tainan and Kaohsiung.

Posted on 2026-09-01 19:37:14

China has warned Taiwan of consequences after officials from Beijing and
Taipei attended a Pacific leaders summit in Palau.

The meeting brings together 18 member states and territories of the Pacific
Islands Forum.

China, the U-S and Taiwan are not members, but all three have significant
interests in the region.

Palau is one of the few countries that maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan
and has hosted joint events with Taipei's representative.

A Chinese envoy called Taiwan's presence at the summit "very inappropriate"
and hinted that Beijing could take action.

The dispute highlights growing competition among major powers for influence
in the Pacific.

Posted on 2026-09-01 19:37:14

Princess Cruises has ended its local sales operations in Taiwan ... but its
scheduled sailings this year will not be affected.

The company's Taiwan branch, Carnival Taiwan, stopped its website, social
media and local sales operations on August 31st.

Princess Cruises said it will no longer accept new bookings through its local
entity, but existing reservations and passenger support services remain
unaffected.

Future travelers will need to book through the company's global website or
other international channels.

The move is part of parent company Carnival Corp.'s decision to halt local
sales operations in several Asian markets, including Taiwan, China, Hong Kong
and South Korea.

Taiwan International Ports Corp. says the decision was a business strategy
adjustment and would not affect this year's scheduled port calls.

Princess Cruises ships will continue to call at Keelung and Kaohsiung, while
Taiwan authorities work to attract more international cruise operators.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-01 19:37:14

Weight-loss doctor Wang Ming-yu (王銘嶼) has been indicted for allegedly
defrauding 424 patients out of 18.02 million NT by charging them for a
surgical device prosecutors said was never used.

The Kaohsiung District Prosecutors Office said Wang faces charges including
fraud, document forgery and violations of medical laws.

Prosecutors said Wang told patients undergoing weight-loss surgery they would
need to pay an additional $42,500 NT for a disposable wireless ultrasonic
surgical device known as "Maxima".

However, investigators found no evidence the device was actually used,
leading prosecutors to conclude patients were charged for equipment they did
not receive.

Wang's medical license was revoked in September 2025.

He is also being investigated over the deaths of two patients who underwent
weight-loss surgery at Antai Hospital.

Posted on 2026-09-01 19:37:14

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham later today is set to face lawmakers in
the House of Commons for the first time since becoming U-K leader six weeks
ago.

Wars in Europe and the Middle East are weighing on his promise to kick-start
the economy and ease the cost of living.

Burnham has spent the summer traveling the country promising renewed national
optimism.

He has announced modest money-saving measures including a tax cut on domestic
energy bills.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch finally gets a chance to grill Burnham on
Tuesday when Parliament returns from its summer break.

Burnham is set to make a statement in the House of Commons setting out his
vision of a more active and less centralized state.

Posted on 2026-09-01 18:05:13

Ferry operators are suspending services between Taiwan's east coast and
Orchid Island and Green Island from tomorrow afternoon due to worsening sea
conditions.

Ferries between Taitung and Green Island will operate only in the morning,
with a 9:30 AM departure and a 12:30 PM return to Fugang Harbor.

While all Taitung to Orchid Island ... and Pingtung Houbitou to Orchid Island
services will be canceled tomorrow.

Operators said the disruptions are due to strong winds and waves associated
with a tropical depression.

Passengers are advised to check the latest updates before traveling.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-01 18:05:13

Meanwhile,

Kaohsiung saw its wettest August on record this year, with 1,712 millimeters
of rain falling over the month.

That's nearly four times the historical average for August and equivalent to
93 percent of the city's average annual rainfall.

The city government has stepped up flood preparations, with its disaster
response center activated and emergency teams deployed to monitor rainfall
and water levels and prepare equipment and personnel for possible flooding.

Local officials say rainfall could become more concentrated and intense
through to tomorrow, September 2nd, as a low-pressure system and
southwesterly winds continue to affect the region.

Authorities are urging residents to watch for flooding in low-lying areas, as
well as lightning and strong winds.

People in mountainous areas and near rivers and streams are also being urged
to take extra care.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-01 18:05:13

Netflix has told Taiwan health officials that its response to concerns over
tobacco imagery in the Japanese anime series "Chainsmoker Cat" may take some
time due to internal procedures.

Hsinchu City health officials visited Netflix at the end of August ... after
formally contacting the company over scenes repeatedly showing identifiable
tobacco brands and packaging.

The Health Promotion Administration says the matter may need to go through
internal review procedures and be reported to Netflix's U-S parent company.

Several other streaming platforms have removed the series, while Netflix has
continued showing and updating episodes without obscuring the tobacco
imagery.

Taiwan health authorities are urging the company to quickly mask identifiable
tobacco brands and markings.

The H-P-A says platforms that removed the series can restore it once the
non-compliant imagery is obscured.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-01 18:05:13

New Taipei's Sanying MRT Line has recorded more than 1.7 million passenger
trips during its two-month trial operation.

According to the city's metro operator, the five busiest stations were
Dingpu, Yingge Station, Ceramics Old Street, National Taipei University and
Sanxia.

Electronic smart cards accounted for 44 percent of trips, followed by social
welfare cards at 36 percent and commuter monthly passes at 12 percent.

The line began charging fares today, with tickets ranging from 20 to 35 NT
... after beginning trial operations on June 30th.

Single day passes are also available for 60 NT, allowing unlimited rides on
the line on the day of purchase.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-01 14:07:13

To help fishermen locate fish, the Ministry of Agriculture says it will work
with the National Science and Technology Council on a four-year project
beginning next year.

Minister Chen Jun-ji says the project will combine decades of Taiwan's catch
statistics with satellite imagery and ocean data, including sea temperatures,
water color and acidity, for big-data analysis.

The Fisheries Agency says AI models will initially be used to predict the
location of skipjack tuna in the western and central Pacific, as well as
mackerel and scad in waters around Taiwan.

Fishermen currently often rely on visual clues, such as seabirds and drifting
wood, to locate fishing grounds, making the process costly and uncertain.

Officials hope more accurate predictions will reduce the time and resources
fishermen spend searching at sea.

Taiwan's fisheries produced about $97 billion NT in output last year, while
the entire industry chain was worth an estimated $350 billion NT.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-09-01 14:07:13

Three players on Taiwan’s Asia U18 Rugby national team have been disqualified
for drinking alcohol during training camp ahead of the Asian championships.

The team has been in Taipei since August 3rd to prepare for the tournament
starting September 5th in mainland China.

But an investigation was launched after social media evidence surfaced,
showing the players drinking while out past curfew.

The association filled the vacant spots on the 13-man roster with three
replacement players ahead of the tournament in China.

The association also confirms that following the emergency meeting, strict
disciplinary action was taken to officially revoke the national team status
of all three athletes.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-01 14:07:13

Taiwan shares were higher as were many other Asian stock markets. The Taiex
gained 820 points to end the session at 46,948.

The turnover also expanded to 1-trillion 810 billion NT.

Posted on 2026-09-01 14:07:13

In world news...

The death toll from catastrophic flooding in Nepal and China has passed 1,000
as rescue teams worked to reach communities cut off by the disaster.

Nepal’s disaster agency also said some 3,900 people remain missing, including
583 foreigners.

Chinese authorities reported 16 deaths in their most recent update on Sunday.
The Aug. 26 disaster began with a chain of events high in the Himalayas.

A glacial collapse sent large amounts of rock, ice and meltwater into valleys
below, triggering powerful floods downstream.

Scientists studying satellite imagery said the collapse appears to have
involved the failure of bedrock beneath a glacier in the Himalayan region.

The rockfall was powerful enough to register as a magnitude 5.2 seismic
event.

Posted on 2026-09-01 13:09:13

Turning to world news...

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberals have swept three special
elections in a result that showed voters backing Carney for standing up for
Canada against U.S. President Donald Trump.

The Canadian Press projected Liberal victories in Quebec, Beaches-East York
in Toronto and North Vancouver-Capilano in British Columbia.

In Quebec, the Liberal candidate was projected to win a district held by the
opposition Conservatives since 2018.

U.S.-Canada trade talks collapsed Aug. 21st after the two sides failed to
reach a deal, and Trump imposed 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion US dollars
in Canadian goods.

Canada responded with plans for tariffs on U.S. products.

Posted on 2026-09-01 13:08:13

The Ministry of Education is offering free online classes for teachers,
students and the public to learn more about artificial intelligence.

The MOE says the courses are available on its MOOCs learning platform, which
has also added a special AI section with features including personalized
course recommendations and automatically generated subtitles.

The ministry worked with a team from National Taiwan Normal University to
introduce an AI evaluation system for the first time.

The system assesses AI courses based on five areas, including how engaging
they are, the depth of their content, hands-on learning, organization and
range of applications.

The first 18 recommended courses cover topics including introductions to
AI, machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing and computer
vision.

Among the highest-rated courses is "Applied Machine Learning with Python,"
taught by National Chengchi University professor Lin Yi-ling.

It takes learners from basic machine-learning concepts through data analysis
and eventually to building machine-learning models.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-09-01 13:08:13

The opposition TPP is gearing up to support its Taipei City Council
candidates' campaign for this year's local elections.

TPP chair Huang Guo-chang and founder Ko Wen-zhe accompanied the 6
candidates, including sitting councilors Lin Zhen-yu and Huang Jing-ying, to
register at the Taipei Election Commisssion.

Asked whether the TPP plans to cooperate with the KMT in Taipei, Huang said
the party's immediate priority is to get its own campaign on a firm footing.

On the issue of any further cooperation or coordination with Taipei Mayor
Chiang Wan-an, Huang indicated that it can be discussed at the next stage.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-09-01 13:08:13

Turning to world news...

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberals have swept three special
elections in a result that showed voters backing Carney for standing up for
Canada against U.S. President Donald Trump.

The Canadian Press projected Liberal victories in Quebec, Beaches-East York
in Toronto and North Vancouver-Capilano in British Columbia.

In Quebec, the Liberal candidate was projected to win a district held by the
opposition Conservatives since 2018.

U.S.-Canada trade talks collapsed Aug. 21st after the two sides failed to
reach a deal, and Trump imposed 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion US dollars
in Canadian goods.

Canada responded with plans for tariffs on U.S. products.

Posted on 2026-09-01 11:09:13

The Ministry of Economic Affairs yesterday approved a 9.8 billion NT
investment by US semiconductor equipment supplier Lam Research.

Lam Research will invest the money in its Taiwan subsidiary to support
research, development, and design operations for critical equipment used in
advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes.

The ministry's Investment Commission approved a total of 6 major investment
cases, including 2 foreign investments in Taiwan and four overseas
investments by Taiwanese companies.

The other foreign company approved to invest in Taiwan yesterday was Zhen
Ding Technology Holdings, which will invest 3 billion NT in subsidiary
Boardtek Electronics to support printed circuit board research and
development.

Meanwhile, one of the companies approved to invest abroad is the
semiconductor company Nuvoton Technology Corporation.

Posted on 2026-09-01 11:09:13

CPC says, it will keep natural gas prices for domestic and industrial users
unchanges this month...

but will increase prices for companies that generate electricity.

The oil supplier says that LNG prices have been on the rise due to
uncertainty over supply as negotiations between the US and Iran have
stalled...

and European countries push to build up their inventories before the winter.

CPC says it will absorb additional costs for industrial users after taking
into account consumer prices and overall economic conditions.

A statement from the oil supplier added that it has absorbed about 140
billion NT in losses on sales to the industriak sector since 2021.

However, prices for the electricity sector will be increased by just under
6%.

It's not yet clear if that will translate into higher electricity costs.

Posted on 2026-09-01 11:09:13

Now turning to international news...

A school principal in Nepal is being celebrated for his decision to evacuate
his school.

Rajendra Dawadi's call saved at least 900 students from last week's flash
floods in the country.

That's as the total death toll from the disaster is approaching 1000.

Dawadi heeded warnings and led students to safety, watching his school
disappear beneath water and debris.

His story has emerged as a striking example of foresight and courage.

The floods destroyed thousands of classrooms and disrupted education for
nearly 19,000 students.

Dawadi is urging the government to rebuild schools and resume classes...

emphasizing the need for psychological counseling for students.

The disaster took place after a glacier in the Himalayas collapsed, killing
over 950 people in Nepal and Tibet, with more than 4400 still missing.

Posted on 2026-09-01 11:09:13

Israel has signed a major weapons deal with Greece, marking their largest
agreement to date.

The deal, coined Achilles Shield, is valued at nearly $3.5 billion and
includes a multi-layered air defense system for Greece.

Greece is modernizing its armed forces amid regional tensions, particularly
with Turkey.

Israeli arms exports reached a record high last year, exceeding $19 billion
with experts saying Israel's battle-tested weapons are a key attraction.

Posted on 2026-08-31 20:08:13

A new global report shows that an area of the ocean that includes Taiwan has
seen the steepest decline in living coral in East Asia in recent years.

The Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network today released its "Status of Coral
Reefs of the World: 2025" report, linking the decline to increasingly
frequent coral bleaching events.

Bleaching happens when stressed corals lose the algae that give them their
color and help keep them alive.

Globally, the amount of seafloor covered by living hard coral was about 9.5
percent below the historical average ... between 2020 and 2024.

East Asia has fared relatively well, but coral cover fell during the latest
bleaching event, with waters around Taiwan particularly affected.

Taiwan researchers say shrinking recovery time between marine heatwaves is a
major concern, leaving corals less time to recover.

They are calling for more marine protected areas, tighter controls on coastal
development and tougher environmental enforcement.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-08-31 20:08:13

The global semiconductor market is expected to top 2 trillion U-S dollars by
2030, driven by demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure.

SEMI senior director Clark Tseng says the market was previously expected to
reach about 1 trillion dollars, based on traditional demand from PCs,
smartphones and consumer electronics.

But AI data centers are driving demand for advanced chips, high-bandwidth
memory and other components.

The market is expected to surpass 1.5 trillion dollars this year, despite
continued weakness in PC and smartphone shipments.

Taiwan is expected to account for about 30 percent of the global
semiconductor materials market next year.

But SEMI board chair Tien Wu says AI growth is putting pressure on Taiwan's
land, talent, capital and electricity resources.

SEMICON Taiwan will run from Wednesday through Friday at Taipei Nangang
Exhibition Center Halls 1 and 2.

Posted on 2026-08-31 19:44:13

The Ministry of Digital Affairs is working with Meta, Google, LINE and TikTok
to use AI against increasingly sophisticated online scams.

Officials say fraud groups are using AI to generate large amounts of scam
content, prompting platforms to strengthen automated detection and share
intelligence with the government.

The measures include blocking fraudulent ads and fake accounts, tightening
checks on high-risk users and issuing warnings for suspicious messages and
links.

Meta says it removed 10.9-million scam ads in Taiwan between March 2024 and
mid-July this year.

LINE says it has also taken action against more than 142-thousand accounts
linked to fraud since November 2024.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 19:44:13

Kaohsiung is set to add 1-thousand-200 YouBikes by November, bringing the
city's total fleet to more than 14-thousand-300.

The new bikes will include almost 1-thousand standard YouBike 2.0s and over
200 electric-assist 2.0Es.

The city now has 1-thousand-500 rental stations, and more than 91 million
YouBike rides have been recorded as of July ... since the system launched in
2020.

The system averaged 1.9 million rides a month this year, peaking at almost
2.2 million in May.

Officials say YouBike has also helped cut carbon emissions by an estimated
15-thousand metric tons.

Kaohsiung's Transportation Bureau is offering 5-NT ride vouchers for helping
rebalance full and empty stations, with up to 10 NT available per trip.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-08-31 19:44:13

Taiwan is taking its culture to Poland next month with a two-day "Taiwan Day"
event featuring music, dance, food and folk arts.

The first event will be held in Lodz in in central Poland on September 11th
...

... with performances by the Lei Sheng Art Group, and Taipei Gong Le Xuan, a
Taiwanese Beiguan music ensemble.

There will also be stalls offering Taiwanese food and products, including
dumplings, bubble tea and Taiwanese tea.

The event moves to Opole in southwestern Poland the next day .... where the
groups will be joined by the MeimageDance {May-image} Troupe.

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim says the event aims to encourage more Europeans
to visit Taiwan and experience its culture firsthand.

She says cultural exchanges can also help deepen international understanding
of Taiwan.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-08-31 19:44:13

Russian forces have launched drone and missile attacks on Kyiv and nearby
cities for a fifth consecutive day, striking warehouses and disrupting daily
life.

Air raid alerts and attacks on food distribution centers have left some
supermarket shelves empty as Ukraine struggles to counter Russia's
jet-powered drones.

Ukrainian officials say two major attacks in July killed nearly 50 civilians,
while a strike Saturday killed at least 38 people.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Russia is trying to wear down Ukraine and
its people, while Russian forces continue targeting the country's power grid.

Posted on 2026-08-31 19:44:13

Mount Sinabung in Indonesia has erupted, sending a column of black ash and
smoke 3,500 meters above the summit over Sumatra.

There were no immediate reports of casualties, evacuations or flight
disruptions following Monday's eruption.

Authorities have advised residents, visitors and tourists to avoid activities
within six kilometers of the summit.

Ash covered roads, vehicles and buildings in several villages in North
Sumatra's Karo district, while local authorities distributed masks to
residents.

Posted on 2026-08-31 19:44:13

A Seoul court has sentenced Unification Church leader Hak Ja Han to two years
in prison for bribery and other corruption offenses.

The Seoul Central District Court issued the sentence Monday against Han,
widow of church founder Sun Myung Moon.

Han was accused of ordering church officials to bribe the wife of former
conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol and a politician close to Yoon.

She was also charged with embezzling church funds and ordering the
destruction of evidence related to her gambling activities in the United
States.

Han was arrested last year and has denied the allegations.

Posted on 2026-08-31 18:13:13

With Taitung receiving the most rain islandwide today ....

The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency in Taitung has closed several
hiking trails and mountain lodges from 1 PM as a precaution.

They include the famous Zhi-ben (知本) National Forestry Area, the Lake
Jia-ming (嘉明) Lake trail and Xiang-yang (向陽) Mountain Lodge.

Officials say the affected sites will remain closed until further notice ...
with reopening dates to be announced once conditions improve.

The trails that have already been closed, including the Li-yu (鯉魚) Mountain
trail, for repair will remain so.

Tai-tung has received more than 230 millimeters of rainfall so far today and
more is expected to come tonight and tomorrow.

Officials are reminding people not to venture into mountainous areas when the
weather conditions are bad.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-08-31 18:13:13

Agricultural losses from heavy rain in southern Taiwan in late August have
risen to almost 230 million NT.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Kaohsiung has suffered the heaviest
losses at almost 60 million NT, followed by Yunlin at over 53 million NT.

Crop hardest hit include guava, green onions, papaya, sweet corn and peanuts.

The agricultural sector also reported over $48 million NT in fishery losses,
mainly involving milkfish, mullet and marbled gody.

Livestock losses totaled 2.8 million NT, mainly involving chickens, ducks and
pigs.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-08-31 18:13:13

If you're riding a YouBike in Taipei around mid-September, you could be
become the person who uses a YouBike for the 500 millionth time and receive
20-thousand NT in vouchers

The Department of Transportation estimates that could happen around September
14th.

And there are consolation prizes too — the five riders immediately before and
the five immediately after number 500 million will each get 1-thousand NT in
shopping vouchers.

Transportation officials said YouBike has grown to almost 1-thousand-800
stations across Taipei, with more than 27-thousand bicycles available,
including over 4-thousand electric-assist ones.

Officials are encouraging more people to ride bicycles instead of driving for
the purpose of cutting carbon emissions and traffic jams.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-08-31 18:13:13

This week on Taiwan Talk... ICRT's Tim Berge sits down with Saint Vincent and
the Grenadines Ambassador Kenton X. Chance...

Posted on 2026-08-31 16:17:13

A TSMC executive says the the next phase of artificial intelligence growth
will be driven by bigger and more powerful computing systems.

TSMC AI and high-performance computing director Li Xiang (李湘) said at SEMICON
Taiwan today that AI is moving beyond chatbots and into everyday business
operations.

She said companies will need to connect computing power, memory and data
systems to keep up with growing demand.

Li said the amount of data used to run AI has increased nearly 500-fold since
2022, as newer AI systems handle more complex tasks.

TSMC is developing new chip packaging and data-transfer technologies to meet
that demand.

Li said TSMC now needs to understand the entire AI supply chain, "from
silicon to the data center to the token".

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-08-31 16:17:14

In world news...

The United Arab Emirates’ air force has intercepted an Iranian drone over its
territorial waters.

The Defense Ministry says today's attack comes after the U.S. and Iran
exchanged fire on the weekend, the first action in a month.

The U-A-E Defense Ministry said it “dealt with” an Iranian drone that was
detected over its waters approaching from Iran.

There have been no immediate claims of responsibility from Tehran nor any
reports of damage.

The incident comes after U.S. forces on Sunday struck Iranian rocket
launchers on an Iranian island, breaking a lull in fighting in the war that
has lasted more than six months.

Iran responded by launching missiles at U.S. sites in Jordan.

Posted on 2026-08-31 16:17:14

A court in Seoul, South Korea, has sentenced Unification Church leader Hak Ja
Han, also known as 韓鶴子, to two years in prison.

The Seoul Central District Court on Monday issued the ruling against Han, who
was earlier charged with bribery and other corruption allegations.

Han is the widow of the church founder Sun Myung Moon.

She was arrested last year and charged with instructing church officials to
bribe the wife of conservative former President Yoon Suk Yeol and a
high-profile politician close to Yoon.

She also was charged with embezzling church funds and ordering the
destruction of evidence of her gambling activities in the United States.

Posted on 2026-08-31 14:37:13

Taiwan's manufacturing outlook reached its strongest category in more than
five years in July, helped by strong AI demand and signs of recovery in
traditional industries.

The Taiwan Institute of Economic Research says its manufacturing climate
index rose to 18.57 points, moving into the "red" range that signals strong
growth.

Nearly 46-percent of industries were classified in the red category, up
sharply from June.

But TIER says the outlook for the second half remains uncertain.

Export growth for information and communications products is slowing from a
high base, while it remains unclear whether the recovery in traditional
industries can continue.

The institute is also warning that higher energy prices and global borrowing
costs could add pressure to the economy.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 14:37:18

KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun says the party will not preselect a candidate or
tailor its nomination system for anyone ahead of the 2028 presidential
election.

Speaking to Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao, Cheng said her job is to establish a
fair process, nominate the strongest candidate and maintain cooperation with
the Taiwan People's Party.

Cheng also defended the KMT's push for cross-Strait dialogue, saying peace
remains possible through communication and exchanges.

She said her recent Beijing visit showed there is still room to reduce
hostility across the Strait.

Cheng also expects another U.S.-China leaders' meeting at the end of
September could bring further progress in relations.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 14:37:23

In international news,

In Nepal and Tibet, the total death toll in the catastrophic flooding has
climbed past 900 with more than 4,700 missing.

Multiple foreign teams were also assisting local rescuers to find an
estimated 90 workers trapped in hydropower tunnels.

Nepal’s disaster agency said Monday that 903 deaths had been counted there,
with 4,247 people, including 592 foreigners, missing.

As of Sunday, Chinese authorities reported 16 deaths and 546 missing.

Chinese state media said 261 of the missing were foreigners, including over a
hundred Nepalis.

Wednesday’s flash floods started after a glacial collapse high in the
Himalayan region.

The rocks and melted water then swelled the rivers in the valleys below,
causing a torrent of water that swept buildings, bridges and earth downstream
in Tibet and Nepal.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-08-31 14:37:28

In Palau, leaders from some of the world’s least populous states are
gathering for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.

The summit, which opens today, is set against a backdrop of geopolitical
tension between China, the U.S., Taiwan, and forum members Australia and New
Zealand.

Palau’s President Surangel (suh-RAN-jel) Whipps Jr. urges larger nations not
to interfere, focusing instead on issues like climate change and struggling
economies.

The forum faces challenges in reaching consensus, as seen in a recent failure
to criticize China’s missile launch.

The summit also highlights the strategic importance of small island nations
amid global tensions.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-08-31 14:37:23

The Ministry of National Defense says China's military threat against Taiwan
has not eased, with recent exercises increasingly focused on blockade
scenarios.

Its latest report on China's military power says PLA drills have centered on
cutting off Taiwan's external sea and air routes.

The MND says China has used military aircraft, warships, coast guard vessels
and maritime militia in those exercises to improve its ability to encircle
Taiwan.

The report also warns of espionage and disinformation campaigns aimed at
weakening public trust and internal unity.

The ministry says Taiwan will continue strengthening its defenses, reserve
mobilization and cooperation with security partners.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 14:37:28

In South Korea, a Seoul court has sentenced Unification Church leader Hak Ja
Han to two years in prison.

Yonhap news agency reports the Seoul Central District Court today issued the
ruling against Han, who was earlier charged with bribery and other corruption
allegations.

Han, 83, is the widow of the church’s founder, Sun Myung Moon.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-08-31 13:54:13

President Lai Ching-te says the government will provide 20-billion N.T. a
year starting in 2027 to help small and micro-sized businesses modernize and
improve their competitiveness.

The government is also drafting legislation aimed at making support for
smaller enterprises a permanent part of policy.

Lai says the measures are intended to help businesses of all sizes benefit
from Taiwan's economic growth and technological development.

He also highlighted the government's Ten Major AI Infrastructure Projects,
which focus on areas including quantum computing, silicon photonics and
robotics.

The initiative aims to help at least 1-million smaller businesses adopt
digital technologies and train 500-thousand people in AI applications by
2040.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 13:54:23

The Water Resources Agency has activated a Level 3 response team as stronger
southwesterly winds raise the risk of heavy rain.

The agency says short periods of intense rainfall are possible today and
Tuesday, especially in areas already affected by recent bad weather.

Local governments are being told to clear drainage systems, prepare pumping
equipment and monitor flood-prone roads, underpasses and low-lying areas.

Authorities may also lower water levels at major reservoirs in southern
Taiwan, including Tsengwen, Wushantou and Mudan, to create more storage
capacity if needed.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 13:54:23

Taiwan shares are down today, with the benchmark Tai-Ex losing 202.98 points
to close the session at 46,128.47.

The turnover was 1.2-trillion N.T.

Posted on 2026-08-31 13:54:18

Weather forecasters say while they're not ruling out the possibility of
issuing a sea warning for the number 20 tropical depression near Hai-nan
island tomorrow evening, the chances are low.

The Central Weather Administration says that's because the system is not
expected to get much stronger as the conditions are not favorable.

The CWA says TD 20 is currently 1,100 kilometers southwest of Taiwan and
moving at a northeasterly direction toward the Taiwan Strait.

It may strengthen a little as it moves northward, and brings even more rain
to Taiwan's south and east.

Forecasters say Taiwan is currently under the influence of a broad
low-pressure system, which has already brought over 200 millimeters of
rainfall to Tai-tung so far today.

Southern Taiwan and Hualian could see brief torrential downpours or heavy
rain as well, with prolonged torrential rain also possible today and
tomorrow.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-08-31 13:54:25

Washington Moves To Cut It Off Over Iran Sanctions Evasion

The UAE's Central Bank has ordered a special inspection of Egyptian bank
Banque Misr's branches after Washington moved to sever the bank from the US
financial system, accusing it of helping Tehran evade sanctions.

The economic pressure campaign is running alongside continued military action
— U.S. forces have struck Iranians accused of laying mines in the Strait of
Hormuz, breaking a period of calm during which the White House had said it
was focused on sanctions rather than force.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian (mah-SOOD peh-zesh-kee-AHN) has said the
country's exports have fallen by nearly thirty-five per cent under American
sanctions.

Posted on 2026-08-31 13:54:31

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the death toll from a Russian
strike on a warehouse west of Kyiv has risen to 38, with four people still
missing.

Authorities also said 52 people were injured.

The Friday night strike on the warehouse, which Ukraine said was storing
ammunition, sparked massive explosions and fires that swept through nearby
homes and buildings.

Russia's Defense Ministry says it is preparing to launch “massive strikes”
against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in response to attacks on Russian
online retailers and the country’s oil and gas sector.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-08-31 12:51:14

With reports that Taiwan's National Security Bureau hired a U.S. consulting
firm to provide advice on trade issues, the N-S-B stressed today that
legitimate consultations and lobbying have become common practice in
democratic countries.

The Bureau also noted that it follows local laws governing required
registration and disclosure.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice's disclosure under the Foreign
Agents Registration Act, the N-S-B hired the U.S. consulting firm ASG
Corporation to provide government relations and trade consultations between
April and September last year.

The contract also included arranging a high-level meeting with Kevin Hassett,
Director of the White House National Economic Council.

A-S-G utilized contacts within the Executive Office of the President to
arrange the meeting on July 8, 2025, between Taiwan’s N-S-B Director-General,
Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明彥), and Kevin Hassett.

The N-S-B paid ASG Corp. a total of $325-thousandＵ.S. dollars for trade and
government relations services.

Sources familiar with the matter said the Taiwan-U.S. tariff negotiations
have highlighted the need for the government to diversify its
intelligence-gathering channels when faced with major changes.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-08-31 12:51:22

Iceland's voters have rejected a referendum to restart negotiations to join
the European Union.

Opponents defeated the measure by a margin of 52.8% to 47.2%.

The result will put the issue to rest for the second time about a decade
after a euroskeptic government ended EU talks.

The referendum was held amid concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's
threats toward neighboring Greenland, prompting some voters to consider
European solidarity.

Opponents cited fishing rights and existing benefits from the EU's single
market, while supporters argued for economic stability and closer ties with
Europe.

Iceland’s left-leaning coalition government, elected in 2024, moved up the EU
referendum it had planned for next year after Trump mistakenly named Iceland
four times while speaking about his designs on Greenland.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-08-31 12:51:18

TSMC says silicon photonics is becoming the mainstream technology for optical
transceivers as AI pushes data-center networks toward their physical limits.

The company's Advanced Packaging Technology Development Vice President K.C.
Hsu says silicon photonics could take more than half of the market by 2027.

He says sales of optical transceivers rose 25-percent last year and are
expected to grow another 50-percent this year.

Hsu says the technology's next major step is co-packaged optics, or CPO, with
at least one company expected to begin mass production in the second half of
this year.

He says Taiwan's semiconductor ecosystem is well positioned for large-scale
production, but bottlenecks remain in lasers, optical fiber, connectors and
testing.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 10:42:13

The Central Weather Administration says former Typhoon Saudel could regain
typhoon strength within the next 24 hours.

The storm weakened after moving into China, but strengthened back into a
tropical depression at 8 a.m. today.

Saudel was centered about 1,050 kilometers west of Eluanbi and is forecast to
cross Hainan before turning toward Guangdong.

The CWA says the system would likely only reach the lower threshold of a mild
typhoon before weakening again over land.

A typhoon warning remains possible, but forecasters say the chances are low.

Meanwhile, central and southern Taiwan could see localized heavy or
torrential rain today, with wet conditions continuing into tomorrow and
Wednesday.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 10:42:13

The Ministry of National Defense says six Chinese warships and four
government vessels were detected around Taiwan over the latest 24-hour
period.

The MND also detected four Chinese military aircraft between 6 a.m. Sunday
and 6 a.m. today.

Three of the aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line and entered
airspace north of Taiwan.

The ministry says Taiwan's military used aircraft, naval vessels and
shore-based missile systems to closely monitor the activity and respond.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 10:42:13

Accusefive and Mayday bassist Masa brought JAM JAM ASIA to a close Saturday
night with a special collaboration at Taipei Music Center.

The one-off group rearranged several Accusefive songs and combined tracks by
Mayday and Accusefive into a new mashup.

Their final performance of Mayday's "Embrace" prompted a mass singalong.

The weekend festival also featured Faith Yang, Crowd Lu, ATARASHII GAKKO! and
Mavis Fan.

Japanese singer-songwriter Taeko Onuki also made her first Taiwan appearance
at the age of 72, performing several of her best-known songs.

Onuki was a longtime friend and collaborator of the late Japanese composer
Ryuichi Sakamoto.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-08-31 10:42:13

Pacific leaders are gathering in Palau for the annual Pacific Islands Forum,
although several heads of government will miss the meeting.

The prime ministers of Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and Solomon Islands, along with
Kiribati's president, will be represented by ministers or senior officials.

The forum, hosted by Palau President Surangel Whipps Junior through September
4, will focus on regional economic pressures, climate priorities, security
and possible reforms to the organization.

The U.S., China, Japan and Singapore are also returning as dialogue partners
after being excluded from last year's meeting.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is in Palau for meetings and side
events.

Posted on 2026-08-31 10:42:13

U.S. forces have struck two Iranian launchers on Larak Island, marking the
first known American attack on Iran since late July.

A U.S. official says Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces were preparing to
launch rockets carrying sea mines into the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran says the strike killed and wounded several soldiers and civilians, and
has vowed to respond.

A U.S. source cited by Fox News says Iran later launched missiles at American
forces in Jordan, with nearly all of them intercepted and no significant
damage reported.

The latest escalation comes six months into the Iran war, which has disrupted
shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and contributed to a blockade of a
route that previously carried about one-fifth of the world's oil supply.

Posted on 2026-08-31 10:42:13

Icelanders have voted against reopening membership talks with the European
Union, dealing a setback to the government's push for closer ties with
Brussels.

Official results show 52.8-percent voted against negotiations, while
47.2-percent supported them. Turnout was 82.5-percent.

The country's Prime Minister says Iceland will instead focus on strengthening
its existing relationship with the EU through the European Economic Area.

Fishing rights were a major issue in the campaign, with opponents warning EU
membership could weaken Iceland's control over its waters.

Supporters argued closer ties could help Iceland deal with trade tensions,
Arctic security concerns and high borrowing costs.

The government says the result will end the membership debate for as long as
the current coalition remains in power.

Username
Password
Lost your password