ICRT

Posted on 2026-09-24 19:58:13

The Ministry of Transportation and Communications is announcing plans to
expand scooter driver training starting next year.

Officials say the changes will add five hours of practical training for light
and standard heavy scooter driving courses starting January 1st, 2027.

The expanded curriculum includes two hours of specialized track maneuvering
and three hours of live road driving instruction.

Authorities also plan to trial actual on-road driving tests for motorcycle
license applicants starting in October 2027.

Officials say training subsidies up to $2-thousand-500 NT will remain
available, emphasizing that practical road experience will better equip new
riders to recognize traffic hazards and navigate complex street environments.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-24 19:58:13

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an is urging politicians to base claims on facts,
after reports of possible food poisoning at a local junior high school.

A city councilor claimed that multiple teachers and students at Jinhua Junior
High fell ill after consuming a school lunch featuring squid on Sept. 4-th.

But the city's Department of Education clarified that only one student
experienced diarrhea alongside two unrelated cases of mild discomfort,
confirming no mass food poisoning occurred.

Chiang emphasized that any accusations must be supported by facts, backing
the department's rejection of a reported food poisoning outbreak.

The mayor also defended condolence funds provided to students affected by an
earlier, separate food poisoning case at another school, stressing that
officials immediately fined the vendor and terminated its contract, while
also launching citywide lunch inspections.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-24 19:58:13

Three of Taiwan's diplomatic allies made a push Wednesday for Taiwan's
inclusion in the United Nations, when their leaders addressed the 81st
session of the U.N. General Assembly.

Paraguayan President Santiago Peña said in his speech that Taiwan's exclusion
is "a stain on the United Nations", reaffirming Paraguay's support for the
full and meaningful participation of Taiwan in the U.N. and its specialized
agencies.

In a similar vein, Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. notes that the U.N.
Charter begins with the commitment, "We the peoples", and says the U.N.
"marginalizes Taiwan's 23 million people, disregarding that foundational
purpose."

Meanwhile, King Mswati III of the African kingdom of Eswatini also expressed
support for Taiwan, which he said plays a vital role in global supply chains.

The 81st session of the U.N. General Assembly opened on Sept. 8, with the
high-level General Debate running from Sept. 22 to Sept. 28.

(CNA -NS)

Posted on 2026-09-24 18:48:13

Taiwan's minimum wage will rise for an 11th consecutive year, with the
monthly rate increasing to NT$30,900 and the hourly rate to NT$205.

The Ministry of Labor's Minimum Wage Review Committee approved the increases
today, up from NT$29,500 and NT$196 respectively.

The new rates will take effect next year, pending approval by the Executive
Yuan.

Economic Affairs Minister Kung Ming-hsin says the government is also
considering subsidies for service businesses and traditional manufacturers
that face greater pressure from higher labor costs.

He says the Economics Ministry will work with the Labor Ministry to develop
support measures for businesses that may struggle after the wage increase.

Kung says similar subsidies were previously provided to manufacturers
affected by U.S. tariffs, but this time the support could be expanded to
include service businesses.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-24 18:48:13

The Executive Yuan approved a three-year $3.6 billion NT initiative Thursday
to expand campus safety personnel in junior high schools.

The Ministry of Education says the program will increase dedicated school
safety officers nationwide from 620 to 2,000 starting in October.

Running through 2029, the initiative will provide up to 90 percent in
government subsidies to help over 900 junior high schools recruit trained
staff.

The staff will assist teachers by responding to classroom conflicts,
conducting security patrols, and handling emergency situations.

And the ministry says training programs for the safety personnel will cover
campus bullying response, drug abuse prevention, emergency protocols, and
legal practices for youth safety.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-24 18:48:13

Jazz is helping bring Taipei's Dadaocheng district to life as the
Tua-Tiu-Tiann International Festival of Arts returns.

This year's theme is "Cute Power," and its Music Global program puts a
spotlight on musicians from Taiwan and Poland.

Polish trumpeter Piotr Wojtasik leads a workshop tonight. Then on Saturday,
singer Anna Maria Jopek's quartet joins him and Taiwanese musicians for an
opening jazz concert.

The music continues October 3rd with a jazz and hip-hop performance featuring
vinyl artist Hubert Tas.

And on October 17th, a costume-filled arts parade will bring theater, music
and circus acts into Dadaocheng's streets.

Posted on 2026-09-24 12:42:13

Paraguayan President Santiago Peña says his country stands with Taiwan and is
calling for Taiwan's "full and meaningful participation" in the United
Nations.

Speaking at the U.N. General Assembly, Peña warned that a conflict in the
Taiwan Strait would have consequences far beyond the region.

He said it could affect Japan, East and Southeast Asia, the global economy
and the supply of semiconductors used in industry, defense and artificial
intelligence.

Peña said Paraguay's support for Taiwan is based on shared values including
democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

He also described Taiwan's exclusion from the U.N. system as "a stain on the
United Nations."

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-24 12:42:13

Taiwan's computer exports have overtaken integrated circuits to become the
country's biggest export category amid strong demand linked to artificial
intelligence.

The Ministry of Finance says computers and related units accounted for
33.5-percent of total exports in the first eight months of the year.

Integrated circuits were close behind at 33.1-percent, with the two
categories together making up about two-thirds of all exports.

Taiwan's exports have also become increasingly concentrated.

The country's 10 biggest product categories accounted for 80.5-percent of
total exports during the period.

The United States bought more than 60-percent of Taiwan's computer exports,
while nearly half of its integrated circuit exports went to China and Hong
Kong.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-24 12:42:13

Thirty-four animals tested positive for rabies in Taiwan during the first
half of this year, with nearly all of the cases involving ferret-badgers.

The Veterinary Research Institute says 854 animals were tested, with rabies
detected in 33 ferret-badgers and one masked palm civet.

The figures were released ahead of World Rabies Day on September 28, which
aims to raise awareness about rabies prevention.

Areas with positive cases cover 100 townships and districts across 10 cities
and counties.

Officials are reminding people not to touch or capture wild animals, and to
keep dogs and cats up to date on rabies vaccinations.

Anyone who sees a wild animal behaving unusually is advised to contact their
local animal disease control authority rather than approaching it.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-24 11:07:13

The Central Weather Administration says, Tropical Storm Surigae has formed
and is expected to strengthen into a typhoon as early as tomorrow.

The storm is currently located near Guam and is expected to continue moving
northwest before turning northeast towards Japan's Ryukyu Islands.

It's not yet clear the extent of the impact on Taiwan that the storm will
have, but the likelihood of a sea warning being issued is low.

The CWA says it will continuing observing the storm as its path becomes more
definite.

Meanwhile, the CWA says we can expect partly cloudy to sunny conditions
through Sunday with clear conditions across most the country for moon-gazing
tomorrow...

but the north can expect some rain starting Monday, as Surigae, which is
likely to have become a typhoon by that point, may bring some inclement
weather to the island.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-24 11:07:13

A DDP candidate for township councilor in Hualien County has died after
collapsing onstage at a Moon Festival event.

Chiu Feng-ing (邱鳳英) was singing at the event in Xincheng Township earlier
this week when she suddenly collapsed.

She was taken to hospital after suffering cardiac arrest but medical staff
were unable to save her.

Chiu was a longtime DPP member and had previously worked as a councilor's
aide.

She moved to Xincheng Township eight years ago and decided to run for office
for the first time this year.

The Hualien County Election Commission says three candidates had registered
in her constituency and that it will consult the Central Election Commission
on how to proceed following her death.

The DPP's Hualien chapter says it will continue working for local residents
in honor of Chiu's commitment to the area.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-24 07:27:13

The leaders of the US and China are expected to discuss trade, artificial
intelligence, and Taiwan at a summit starting today.

Scholars say the talks will also aim to manage compeitition between the two
countries.

Chinese experts say, the talks are expected to build on their agreement to
establish a "constructive relationship of strategic stability."

They note the two sides have made progress in implementing agreements reached
earlier this year, including China's purchases of US agricultural products...

and they say Xi Jinping is also expected to raise the issue of arms sales to
Taiwan with his US counterpart.

Taiwanese scholars, though, say that trade and AI are likely to dominate the
agenda, with Taiwan taking more of a secondary role.

They say that Trump is likely to seek ways to boost Republican prospects
ahead of US midterm elections this fall...

while Xi is aiming to show Chinese foreign policy stability ahead of the
CCP's National Congress next year.

They say that, while Taiwan is likely to be a topic of discussion, it is not
likely to figure in more than it did when the two met in May.

Posted on 2026-09-24 07:27:13

The Ministry of National Defense has given its first live-fire demonstration
of the 205 mm mobile gun system.

That's a domestically developed and produced armored vehicle that is set to
enter mass production next year.

During a demonstration, the vehicle hit moving and stationary targets at
ranges of about 1 kilometer away.

Officials say, the demonstration shows that the vehcile can provide
continuous firepower against multiple targets.

The second round of ammunition initially failed to fire, with crews waiting
two mintutes, as stipulated by safety procedures, before reloading, after
which the vehicle fired normally.

Officials say they will investigate the cause of the apparent misfire.

Military officers said the vehicle is expected to receive further upgrades
when it enters mass production, including capabilities intended to counter
drones.

The military also displayed ammunition developed specifically for the
vehicle, including armor-piercing, anti-personnel and practice rounds.

Posted on 2026-09-24 07:27:13

Labor Minister Hong Shen-han (洪申翰) says it's highly likely that the minimum
wage will be raised next year and that the monthly rate could exceed
$30-thousand NT.

The Ministry of Labor will convene its Minimum Wage Review Committee
tomorrow, with labor and business groups calling for different levels of
increase.

The current minimum wage stands at $29,500 per month and $196 NT per hour.

Business groups say an increase of around 3 percent would be reasonable,
while labor groups are calling for an increase of more than 7-percent.

Labor representatives said the increase should fully reflect inflation, plus
half of the economic growth rate forecast by the central bank.

But Hong says it'll be up to the committee to make the final call.

Under the Minimum Wage Act, the ministry is required to convene the committee
during the third quarter of each year.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-09-24 07:27:13

The Ministry of Economic Affairs says Taiwan's drone production is expanding
faster than previously forecast.

Economics minister Kung Ming-hsin says Taiwan's drone industry output will
surpass $50 billion by 2030, exceeding previous growth targets.

The ministry says Taiwan is currently self-sufficient in producing 70 percent
of small drones, 60 percent for medium drones, and 30 percent for large
models.

And the island aims to elevate domestic production capabilities for key
components across all drone classes to 90 percent by 2030.

Officials emphasized that establishing domestic mass production will
strengthen national security and position Taiwan as a regional drone
manufacturing center.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-24 07:27:13

Taiwan's industrial electricity use hit a record high in August ... as strong
AI demand drove activity across the semiconductor industry and its supply
chain.

The Taiwan Institute of Economic Research says industrial power consumption
topped 16-billion kilowatt-hours for the first time ... up 0.82 percent from
a year earlier.

The institute says electricity demand in the semiconductor industry rebounded
strongly ... while power use by the machinery and steel industries also
continued to grow.

However, electricity use remained weaker in some traditional industries ...
falling almost 12 percent in textiles and around 5 percent in chemical
materials.

The institute expects continued growth in AI applications and related
investment to support Taiwan's industrial activity and overall economic
growth.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-24 07:27:13

Taiwan set up its first-ever national pavilion at a major global rail
transportation trade fair in Berlin...

showcasing its railway technology and seeking international partners.

The Railway Bureau says the pavilion highlights Taiwan's expertise in smart
rail systems, including 5G, AI, and other digital technologies.

Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai says Taiwan's century-long experience
in railways, high-speed rail and urban transit has created a strong
foundation for further developing the industry.

The Taiwan Pavilion at InnoTrans brings together 14 companies and
organizations, including Taiwan High Speed Rail, universities, and research
institutes.

Another 26 Taiwanese companies are also taking part in the Berlin trade fair
independently.

Posted on 2026-09-24 07:27:13

The Central Weather Administration says, Taiwan can expect mostly stable
weather over the upcoming long weekend.

They say, there will be favorable conditions for moon-gazing during the
Mid-Autumn Festival tomorrow.

CWA says, the mon will be visible for those in the western half of the
country tomorrow...

while those in the east will have a smaller but still decent chance at seeing
the moon.

Saturday and Sunday will have the most stable weather of the weekend, with a
chance of some afternoon rain in mountainous areas.

But on Monday and Tuesday, the outer bands of a passing tropical storm may
bring scattered showers to the north.

Posted on 2026-09-24 07:27:13

Taiwan has taken part in the opening of the WorldSkills Competition in
China's Shanghai, with the Taiwanese delegation flying the Olympic flag.

Taiwan sent 53 competitiors to the event to compete in 47 skill categories at
the event, described as the "Olympics of skills."

The event runs through Sunday.

The WorldSkills Competition brings together young skilled workers from around
the world to compete in fields like aircraft maintenance, refrigeration,
baking, and hairdressing,

Event organizers note that most competitions are open to contestants aged 22
or younger, while the age limit is extended to 25 for several skills that
require longer periods of training and experience.

This year's competition features 64 skill categories and 1,385 competitors
from 68 countries and regions.

Taiwan placed fourth overall at the 2024 edition in France, winning two gold,
three silver and 10 bronze medals.

Posted on 2026-09-23 19:07:14

Taiwan's military has demonstrated a new domestically developed
105-millimeter mobile gun system in a live-fire exercise for the first time.

The armored vehicle hit moving and stationary targets during the
demonstration at an Army training area in Tainan.

The Ministry of National Defense says the system is designed to provide
continuous firepower against multiple targets and could be used against
amphibious vehicles.

One round initially failed to fire during the demonstration, but the crew
followed safety procedures and the system later fired normally.

Arsenal 202, which developed the vehicle's gun and ammunition, says 178
vehicles are planned, with mass production scheduled to begin in 2027.

The vehicle has been redesigned to make it shorter and more maneuverable,
which officials say makes it better suited to Taiwan's urban areas and
difficult terrain.

The military also plans to add anti-drone capabilities before mass production.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 19:07:14

HSBC says Taiwan's economy is expected to remain strong ... driven by global
demand for AI and data centers.

The bank says Taiwan's exports are likely to accelerate in the fourth quarter
... as AI data-center development continues to support corporate earnings and
investment.

HSBC says Taiwan's strong economic growth in recent quarters has also been
supported by a rebound in business investment and household consumption.

The bank expects the U-S Federal Reserve to raise interest rates by another
quarter-point in December ... citing persistent inflation and stronger
economic growth.

HSBC says the global economy and corporate earnings have remained stronger
than widely expected ... despite risks from geopolitical tensions, oil-price
volatility and uncertainty over inflation and interest rates.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 19:07:14

Taiwanese cement maker TCC Group Holdings plans to acquire a Ukrainian cement
company and three related businesses for up to 750 million euros.

TCC says its Dutch subsidiary will acquire a 100 percent stake in
Ivano-Frankivskcement {ee-VAH-noh franh-KEEFSM suh-MENT} ....

.... along with companies producing roofing materials, gypsum products and
dry-mix mortar.

The deal is still subject to regulatory approval in Taiwan, Ukraine and other
jurisdictions.

TCC says the acquisition will expand its European cement operations into
Eastern Europe and position the company to take part in Ukraine's
reconstruction after the war.

Ivano-Frankivskcement has about 36 percent of Ukraine's cement market and has
continued production since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.

TCC says it also plans to introduce its low-carbon cement technology to the
Ukrainian businesses.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 18:32:13

Police are investigating the cause of a truck crash on National Freeway 3 in
Tainan this afternoon ...

... which affected 13 vehicles ... and left four people hospitalized.

National Highway Police say the truck hit the inner guardrail around noon
near the Xinhua System Interchange while traveling northbound.

The truck was carrying bottled beer and rice wine ... which spilled across
both the northbound and southbound lanes.

The southbound lanes were temporarily closed ... causing traffic to back up
for about one kilometer.

Police say the driver was not under the influence of alcohol ... and may have
become distracted before hitting the guardrail.

One lane has since reopened in each direction ... while crews continue
clearing the spilled cargo.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 18:32:13

The Asian Development Bank has raised its forecast for Taiwan's economic
growth this year to 11 percent, citing a surge in exports linked to
artificial intelligence.

The new forecast is 1.5 percentage points higher than the bank's previous
estimate in July.

The ADB says Taiwan's economy grew 14 percent in the first half of the year,
the fastest first-half growth in 50 years.

Technology exports jumped 65 percent in U-S dollar terms during the first
half, as global demand for AI-related products continued to grow.

The bank expects technology exports and investment in AI infrastructure to
remain the main drivers of growth.

However, the ADB expects growth to slow to 5 percent next year as investment
growth moderates after companies expand their production capacity.

The bank says Taiwan's outlook remains closely tied to the strength of the
global AI investment cycle.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 18:32:13

A five-day tour from Taitung to Thailand's Chiang Mai will launch on December
29th ... featuring a direct charter flight that allows local residents to
travel there without making a connection.

The Taitung County Government says registration is now open ... with the
itinerary including Chiang Mai's historic sites, art villages, markets and
natural attractions.

The county is also inviting Thai tourism operators to Taitung for a
three-day, two-night visit ... aimed at introducing them to attractions they
could promote to Thai travelers.

Their itinerary includes the Amis Folk Culture Center and Donghe Old Street
... highlighting Taitung's Indigenous culture and local life.

Taitung officials say they paln to continue expanding international charter
flights and direct air links.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 17:47:13

Taiwan's industrial electricity use hit a record high in August ... as strong
AI demand drove activity across the semiconductor industry and its supply
chain.

The Taiwan Institute of Economic Research says industrial power consumption
topped 16-billion kilowatt-hours for the first time ... up 0.82 percent from
a year earlier.

The institute says electricity demand in the semiconductor industry rebounded
strongly ... while power use by the machinery and steel industries also
continued to grow.

However, electricity use remained weaker in some traditional industries ...
falling almost 12 percent in textiles and around 5 percent in chemical
materials.

The institute expects continued growth in AI applications and related
investment to support Taiwan's industrial activity and overall economic
growth.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 17:47:13

Taiwan set up its first-ever national pavilion at a major global rail
transportation trade fair in Berlin ...

.... showcasing its railway technology and seeking international partners.

The Railway Bureau says the pavilion highlights Taiwan's expertise in smart
rail systems, including 5G, artificial intelligence and other digital
technologies.

Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai says Taiwan's century-long experience
in railways, high-speed rail and urban transit has created a strong
foundation for further developing the industry.

The Taiwan Pavilion at InnoTrans brings together 14 companies and
organizations, including Taiwan High Speed Rail, universities and research
institutes.

Another 26 Taiwanese companies are also taking part in the Berlin trade fair
independently.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 16:14:13

Taipei police have arrested a man for allegedly fabricating a terror threat
against the Taipei Metro system.

Police say the suspect used a public telephone at Jiantan Metro Station to
report that a terror attack was being coordinated in an online chat group.

Over 20 armed officers secured the MRT station and surrounding transit areas
while investigators used surveillance footage to track the suspect to
Keelung.

Police confirmed that the suspect’s claims of an online attack plot were
entirely false after examining his mobile device.

The case has been referred to prosecutors under charges of intimidating the
public, as authorities warn that false threats to public safety will be
prosecuted strictly.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-23 16:14:13

New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih says the proportion of the Tamsui River affected
by serious pollution has fallen sharply ... from six percent eight years ago
to just 0.3 percent today.

Hou says the city aims to reduce the length classified as seriously polluted
to zero by 2030.

He says New Taipei is also working toward its 2050 net-zero emissions goal
... including introducing zero-carbon designs in major development projects.

Hou says Bali District will be developed as a net-zero demonstration area.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 16:14:13

The first-ever Taiwan International Children and Youth Festival opened today
at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center for a five-day event.

Culture Minister Li Yuan says the festival combines a book fair, live
theater, and an international youth film festival, with France as this year's
featured nation.

French Office in Taipei Director Frédéric Laplanche said several French
creators traveled to Taiwan to participate in cultural discussions with young
readers.

Festival highlights include a youth film section featuring 106 international
films from 45 countries alongside interactive book exhibits and live
performances.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-23 15:19:13

A DDP candidate for township councilor in Hualien County has died after
collapsing onstage at a Moon Festival event.

Chiu Feng-ing (邱鳳英) was singing at the event in Xincheng Township on Tuesday
night when she suddenly collapsed.

She was taken to hospital after suffering cardiac arrest but could not be
revived.

Chiu was a longtime DPP member and had previously worked as a councilor's
aide.

She moved to Xincheng Township eight years ago and decided to run for office
for the first time this year.

The Hualien County Election Commission says three candidates had registered
in her constituency and that it will consult the Central Election Commission
on how to proceed following her death.

The DPP's Hualien chapter says it will continue working for local residents
in honor of Chiu's commitment to the area.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 15:19:13

Taipei prosecutors indicted the head of the defunct "Grand Tour Travel
Company" over a high-profile tour dispute in Croatia.

The move follows an October 2024 incident where 27 Taiwanese tourists were
stranded in Croatia after local operators reported unpaid bills.

Tour members paid out-of-pocket to continue their trip before filing legal
complaints against the travel agency.

A Tourism Administration investigation found that the travel agency was under
financial strain and the head of the agency, surnamed Shih, forged two bank
transfer slips totaling $60-thousand euros.

Shih faces forgery charges for sending photos of the fake bank documents to
the group's tour leader during the incident, but prosecutors declined to
pursue fraud charges, citing that financial hardship rather than deliberate
deception led to the unpaid balances.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-23 15:19:13

The Ministry of Economic Affairs says Taiwan's drone production is expanding
faster than previously forecast.

Economics minister Kung Ming-hsin says Taiwan's drone industry output will
surpass $50 billion by 2030, exceeding previous growth targets.

The ministry says Taiwan is currently self-sufficient in producing 70 percent
of small drones, 60 percent for medium drones, and 30 percent for large
models.

And the island aims to elevate domestic production capabilities for key
components across all drone classes to 90 percent by 2030.

Officials emphasized that establishing domestic mass production will
strengthen national security and position Taiwan as a regional drone
manufacturing center.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-23 09:10:13

Taiwan's unemployment rate rose slightly in August ... partly as new
graduates entered the job market.

The Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics says the
unemployment rate stood at 3.41 percent ... up 0.02 percentage points from
July.

That marked the third consecutive monthly increase.

However, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate edged down to 3.32 percent.

The number of unemployed people rose by 2-thousand to 411-thousand ... mainly
as more new graduates began looking for their first jobs.

Compared with the same month last year, the number of unemployed people fell
by about 4-thousand.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-23 08:07:13

US scholars say, Chinese president Xi Jin Ping is expected to raise the
"Taiwan issue" during his upcoming meeting with his US counterpart.

Bonnie Glaser of the German Mashall Fund says that Xi is likely bring up the
issue with a focus on US arms sales to Taiwan.

She said that, from Xi's perspective, the two leaders have an understanding
that their countries' relationship should be based on constructive strategic
stability...

and that the US should avoid actions that undermine such an understanding.

She added that Xi would classify arms sales to Taiwan as undermining that
"understanding."

Meanwhile, Dennis Wilder, formerly of the US National Security Council, said
that Trump is unlikely to raise the issue himself.

But Glaser says that Trump should remind Xi that the US operates under its
own laws, meaning Washington is required by law to provide defensive arms to
Taiwna.

Wilder says that that Japan may be even more anxious about the meeting than
Taiwan, as the relationship between Beijing and Tokyo at the moment is quite
strained.

He says, Xi may allege that Japan is increasingly militaristic.

But Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is scheduled to meet Trump in New
York next week.

Posted on 2026-09-23 08:07:13

The Minister of Labor says that Taiwan was not subjected to any "downgrading"
at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation ministerial meeting in China.

That as Minister Hong Shen Han has just returned from the meeting in Nanjing.

Hong says, Taiwan was granted the same rights as other members.

His visit marks the first to China by a ministry head of the Lai
administration.

Hong said that the Chinese side granted his delegation rights equal to those
of other members in accordance wih APEC rules...

due to Taiwan's continues insistence and with the assistance of APEC
organizers.

According to Hong, the treatment was consistent with Taiwan's insistence on
"reciprocal dignity," a principle that the minister had laid out before
departing for China.

Hong also confirmed that he did not use a "Taiwan compatriot permit" for the
trip.

He said that his group followed the usual practice, entering China using an
invitation letter.

Posted on 2026-09-23 08:07:13

The Army has unveiled simulators for US-made Stinger missile systems,
highlighting their use in training personnel to engage airborne targets like
drones.

That took place at an open house for local and foreign media.

Reports indicate that Taiwan received "a few dozen" man-portable Stinger
missile systems from the US Biden administration.

The simulators for the systems were also included in the US military
assistance package back in 2023.

Army officials say physical strength and balance are key aspects of training,
as the system weighs nearly 16 kilograms.

The simulators connect to a screen displaying a simulation of Pingtung's
Jiupeng Bay, allowing trainees to track and lock on to airborne targets while
communicating through intercoms.

Officials say, trainees undergo one to one and a half months of training to
acquire necessary skills.

The U.S. approved the first batch of 250 man-portable Stinger missiles in
2015 and a second batch of the same size in 2019. '

Taiwan expects to receive them in phases beginning at the end of this year.

Posted on 2026-09-23 07:31:13

11 workers remain hospitalized after an accident at a Taipower plant in
Kaohsiung yesterday.

One of them has now regained consciousness after falling into a hydrochloric
acid tank.

Taipower says, the incident took place yesterday morning, when a contractor
and workers were doing maintenance on a hydrochloric acid tank used in the
plant's seawater electrolysis process.

One of the workers was reportedly transferring hydrochloric acid from the
tank when he climbed to the top using a safety harness and protective cage.

But Taipower says he fell into the tank after stepping through a metal
covering.

Local media said the tank's cover showed cracks before the worker fell
through it.

The company said that worker suffered burns and lost consciousness, while the
other 10 people who helped with rescue operations reportedly felt unwell
after possibly inhaling hydrochloric acid fumes.

Taipower says, they're investigating the cause of the accident.

Posted on 2026-09-23 07:31:13

The Ministry of Labor has confirmed that it will appeal a ruling that voided
its dismissal of a former branch chief whose bullying was linked to a
worker's suicide.

That's after the Taipei High Administrative Court ruled that the MOL's
disciplinary proceedings against former Workforce Development Agency branch
chair Xie Yi Rong had violated due process and made incorrect factual
findings.

The court said that Xie's challenge to her dismissal was well-founded.

Xie was accused of workplace bullying following the suicide of an employee in
his office in New Taipei nearly 2 years ago.

The MOL issued two demerits to Xie at a performance review, resulting in her
immediate dismissal.

Mirror Media published parts of a survey the MOL put out as part of an
investigation, indicating that many employees knew of Xie's behavior.

The MOL says that it will appeal the ruling to the Supreme Administrative
Court.

The ministry also notes that Xie was found guilty of corruption, so she won't
be reinstated at this time regardless

Posted on 2026-09-23 07:31:13

A vessel donated by Taiwan has reportedly been handed over to the Philippine
Coast Guard.

CNA reports that the decommissioned 500-tonne Kinmen-class patrol vessel was
transferred to Manila at a ceremony.

The Coast Guard Administration confirmed the planned donation last week
following a report of a Philippine law enforcement vessel setting sail from
Kaohsiung port which the United Daily News identified as a disarmed and
repainted CGA 500-tonne-class patrol vessel.

That marked a rare transfer of a retired ship to a non-diplomatic ally.

Posted on 2026-09-23 07:31:13

President Lai Ching-te is calling for deeper cooperation between Taiwan and
Eswatini.

That's as he also thanked the country's deputy prime minister for helping to
ensure that his visit there in May proceeded smoothly.

Meeting with the deputy prime minister yesterday, Lai said he hoped the two
countries would deepen cooperation in disaster management, public health, and
other fields.

The deputy PM is in town after attending the weekend inauguration of the
World Alliance for Disaster Management, founded by Taiwan.

Lai says, the organization aims to share disaster prevention tech, disaster
response, and rescue experience with allies.

Lai added that the deputy prime minister personally accompanied his
delegation to and from Eswatini back in May in order to ensure the smooth
procession of the trip.

Posted on 2026-09-23 07:31:13

The Ministry of Finance says, 6 10 million NT prizes remain unclaimed in the
May and June receipt lottery.

One of those lucky people spent only 10 NT on an Uber Eats delivery order,
while two others bought a Google Play app and paid their monthly phone bill.

There are also 7 2 million NT grand prizes that still haven't been claimed.

The MOF reminds the public that those winners need to claim their prizes
before November 5th.

This reminder comes as the MOF prepares to announce the July/August winning
numbers, winners of which can claim their prizes as soon as the beginning of
next month.

Posted on 2026-09-23 07:31:13

Award-winning photos by migrant workers are now on display in an exhibition
at the National Theater and Concert Hall gallery in Taipei.

The exhibition is titled "Sundays Unseen" and brings together winning entries
from the Migrant International Photography Awards.

The awards have been organized since 2019 by One-Forty, an NGO dedicated to
empowering migrant workers.

One-Forty says, the photographs offer glimpses into migrant workers' everyday
lives, from factory floors, dormitories and caregiving to moments of rest,
faith and homesickness...

as well as their personal dreams and creative expression.

Organizers say, the exhibition aims to encourage greater understanding and
empathy among people from different cultural backgrounds.

The free exhibition runs through November 29.

Posted on 2026-09-22 19:56:14

A worker has regained consciousness after falling into a hydrochloric acid
tank at a power plant in Kaohsiung, while 10 others remain hospitalized.

TaiPower says the accident happened this morning at the Nanpu Power Plant
while contractor workers were carrying out maintenance on a hydrochloric acid
tank.

The worker fell through the tank's metal covering and suffered chemical burns.

Five TaiPower employees and five contractor workers who helped with the
rescue also became unwell after possibly inhaling hydrochloric acid fumes.

All 11 people were taken to hospital.

The injured worker was in stable condition after regaining consciousness,
while the other 10 remained hospitalized.

The Kaohsiung Labor Affairs Bureau says the contractor violated occupational
safety rules and could face a fine of up to $3 million NT.

TaiPower says the accident did not affect power generation at the plant.

Posted on 2026-09-22 19:56:14

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an is outlining plans to revitalize parts of Wanhua
... with the aim of encouraging more young people to visit and experience
Bangka.

Chiang says the plans include revitalizing the Xinfu Cultural Market and Dong
San Shui Market ... along with the first phase of the Wanda MRT Line, which
is expected to open next year.

Meanwhile, Chiang has responded to criticism from DPP Taipei mayoral
candidate Puma Shen and others over the city government's handling of
kindergarten child-abuse cases.

Chiang says the city has increased the frequency of inspections ... set up a
special task force for serious child-abuse cases ... and strengthened
reporting and coordination between city departments.

He says the city government is willing to consider further suggestions and
will continue strengthening its child-protection system.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-22 17:26:13

More than one in three people in Taiwan aged 15 to 64 are now using
generative AI tools such as ChatGPT ...

... moving Taiwan up to 19th place globally in their use ... in Microsoft's
latest Global AI Diffusion Report.

The report tracks generative AI use across 147 economies, taking into account
factors including internet access, device use and population structure.

Microsoft's AI Economy Institute says the rate among people in Taiwan aged 15
to 64 increased by two percentage points from the previous quarter.

Taiwan's adoption rate was also slightly higher than the United States, which
stood at 33 percent ...

... while the global average was around 19 percent.

The United Arab Emirates had the highest adoption rate at over 73 percent,
followed by Singapore at 64 percent.

Microsoft says AI use is growing faster in developed economies than in
emerging ones ... partly because of better access to electricity, internet
infrastructure and digital skills.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-22 17:26:13

The Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office has indicted a 36-year-old man
accused of growing cannabis inside a rented townhouse for three years.

Prosecutors say the man, who works in the frozen seafood wholesale business,
obtained cannabis seeds in 2023 ... and used information found online to grow
and harvest the plants.

Police and prosecutors searched the property mid-July and seized 82 cannabis
plants, 15 bags of cannabis leaves and equipment used to grow and process the
drug.

The seized cannabis was estimated to be worth more than 20-million NT.

Prosecutors say the plants and cannabis leaves were destroyed before the
indictment after samples were taken as evidence.

He faces charges of manufacturing a Category 2 drug under the Narcotics
Hazard Prevention Act.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-22 17:26:13

National Taiwan University Hospital has opened a new 14-story Health Building
... after more than 20 years of planning.

The hospital says the new facility will expand medical capacity, ease
pressure on emergency services ... and allow its historic west-site building
to get some much-needed rest.

The new building is designed to accommodate 330 general beds, 10 intensive
care beds and 16 operating rooms ... along with consultation rooms and
chemotherapy facilities.

Several departments, including ENT, urology, and others, are also moving into
the new building.

The hospital says the move will free up existing ward space ... allowing it
to add another ward for patients transferred from the emergency department
(and help reduce congestion).

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-22 14:14:13

The government's Health Coin rewards program will officially launch on Oct.
1st, to reward citizens for participating in preventive healthcare
activities.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare says National Health Insurance cardholders
aged 18 and older can earn digital points by receiving adult health checks,
cancer screenings, or eligible vaccinations.

Officials say points can be redeemed starting in December for healthy food,
gym discounts, and medical products.

And the ministry says those who complete registration before the end of
November, qualify for weekly digital gift card raffles and a grand prize draw
in December.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-22 14:14:13

A borough chief candidate in New Taipei's Ruifang has posted bail after being
questioned on vote buying charges.

The candidate, surnamed Huang, is accused of handing out fans worth nearly
800 NT and other items to voters at an event in June.

Prosecutors believe Huang, his friend, his mother, and his wife are guilty of
violating the Public Officials Election and Recall Act...

but their detention was deemed unnecessary.

Huang was released on bail of 150000 NT, while the others were released on
between 5 and 10,000 NT each.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-22 14:14:13

fine

The Transport Ministry is warning that unauthorized climbing, graffiti or
damage to the Danjiang (淡江) Bridge could result in fines of up to
300-thousand NT.

The restrictions apply throughout the bridge area ... including the main
bridge, approach roads, pedestrian paths and bicycle lanes.

The Ministry says authorities will work with police and use surveillance
cameras to step up enforcement.

The bridge connecting New Taipei's Tamsui and Bali districts has quickly
become a popular landmark and photo spot ... since officially opening in May.

The bureau is urging visitors to enjoy the landmark responsibly and avoid
damaging public property.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-22 14:14:13

Taiwan shares are up today, with the benchmark tai ex gaining 81 points to
close the session at 47800.

The turnover was 1.021 trillion NT

Posted on 2026-09-22 13:08:13

10 people have been hospitalized following an accident at the Nanpu power
plant in Kaohsiung today.

They are believed to have suffered inhalation injuries in a workplace
accident.

Taipower says that one of those injured is in serious condition.

The company adds that the accident occurred around 9:30 AM while workers were
carrying out maintenance on a hydrochloric acid storage tank of the gas-fired
power plant.

An investigation into the accident is underway, and Taipower says the unit is
operating normally.

(AH_CNA)

Posted on 2026-09-22 13:08:13

Residents of Nantou's Ming-jian township today experienced an unexpected
power outage, with traffic lights out and hospitals and municipal offices
dark.

Taipower says, it's looking into the cause of the issue, but they note that
the outage affected over 35,000 households.

They say the issue began just past 9:15 and that power was fully restored
nearly half an hour later.

KMT County Councilor Lin Ru-yang 林儒暘said that construction work had severed a
power line, causing the outage.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-22 13:08:13

Taipei prosecutors have indicted a man accused of sending threatening emails
to KMT lawmaker Weng Xiao Ling 翁曉玲。

The case began in July, when Weng received an email threatening to hit her
with a car or stab her with a knife.

Prosecutors were able to trace the emails to a Taipei man surnamed Chen...

who they've now indicted on charges of intimidation.

Prosecutors believe that Chen was dissatisfied with Weng's performance as a
lawmaker, leading him to search for her email online .

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-22 13:08:13

The Central Weather Administration says, most of Taiwan can expect partly
cloudy to sunny skies through the holiday weekend...

with clear skies expected for the Mid Autumn Festival on Friday.

However, they note that some areas can still expect localized showers.

Tomorrow and thursday, though, the northern coast and the Greater Taipei Area
can also expect some rain.

Meanwhile, the CWA notes that a newly-minted tropical depression has the
potential to become a tropical storm that could affect Taiwan's weather
starting Monday.

However, the storm's path is still largely uncertain.

(AH-CNA）

Posted on 2026-09-22 11:06:14

The Tai-Ex surged in early trading this morning to hit a new record high.

The main board added 880 points, to reach a fresh historic high of 48,601.

The rise came as major market heavyweights soared on the back of the
Philadelphia Semiconductor Index gaining 4.29-per cent overnight - which saw
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing's American depository receipts climbing by
2.41-per cent.

T-S-M-C's share price rose 30 N-T on the Tai-Ex this morning to reach 2,510
N-T and Delta Electronics added 55 to reach 1,930 N-T.

While MediaTek climbed to new record highs, as its share price added 7-per
cent.

Market watchers say investors were buoyed positive news regarding US-China
trade negotiations and a drop in international oil prices, which drove a
massive influx of capital back into tech sector.

Posted on 2026-09-22 11:06:14

The Ministry of National Defense is reporting four Chinese air sorties
operating near Taiwan between 6AM Monday and 6AM today.

Of those sorties, all four aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan
Strait and entered Taiwan's central and southwestern air defense
identification zones.

Those aircraft included support planes and helicopters.

Six Chinese Navy vessel and three official maritime patrol ships were also
spotted operating in Taiwan Strait over the same 24-hour period.

Posted on 2026-09-22 11:06:14

And,

The Central Weather Administration says we can expect mostly stable weather
conditions - with partly cloudy to sunny skies - across much of the island
through the end of this week and into the weekend.

According to the administration's forecast center, there will be some
localized brief afternoon showers - primarily in the south as well as
mountainous areas in the center and north.

However, a low-pressure system currently near Guam is expected to develop
into a tropical depression in the coming couple of days.

The weather administration says it may strengthen into a tropical storm by
Friday and could threaten to the east coast of Taiwan by next Monday.

The administration is stressing that weather simulations are currently mixed
and to whether it directly impact Taiwan and it will continue to monitor the
weather pattern.

Posted on 2026-09-22 08:16:13

In news from and about Taiwan this morning,

The Ministry of Labor says minister Hung Sun-han's participation in an
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation ministerial meeting in China went
"smoothly."

According to the ministry, China adhered to APEC practices and rules and made
all relevant arrangements for Hung and other members of Taiwan's delegation.

Hung attended the eighth APEC Human Resources Development Ministerial Meeting
in in Nanjing after arriving in the Chinese city on Sunday.

The trip made Hung the first ministry head to travel to China since President
Lai Ching-te took office in May 2024.

The key topics up for discussion at the meeting included the promotion of
high-quality and sufficient employment across the Asia-Pacific region;
examining how A-I is impacting labor markets; and strengthening regional
social security systems.

Hung said workers' rights and social protections should keep pace with
changes in labor markets, demographics and technology.

He also called for called for guidelines and risk-management rules to promote
"responsible A-I" and "human-centered" governance to prevent workers' rights
from being undermined.

Hung is expected to return to Taiwan no later than Thursday, when the Minimum
Wage Deliberation Committee is scheduled to meet to discuss next year's
minimum wage level.

Posted on 2026-09-22 08:16:13

The Ministry of Justice says law enforcement agencies are stepping up
campaigns to trace and remove all election-related deepfake content ahead of
November's local elections.

According to the Ministry, authorities are strengthening intelligence sharing
and coordinatioin with national security agencies, digital platforms and
messaging services to respond more quickly to fake AI-generated content.

Officials say those caught producing or knowingly spreading content intended
to damage a candidate's election campaign will investigated and held
accountable under the Civil Servants Election and Recall Act.

Those found guilty of violating that can face up to seven years in prison.

Candidates who believe they have been targeted can request police forensic
verification.

The justice ministry says once a deepfake is verified, broadcasters and
online platforms can be formally asked to remove or restrict the content
within two days.

The Central Election Commission last month established a task force to work
with the Criminal Investigation Bureau and Ministry of Digital Affairs to
combat the spread of deepfake content ahead of the elections.

Posted on 2026-09-22 08:16:13

The New Zealand Defense Force says two of its naval ships transited the
Taiwan Strait late last week.

Defense officials in Wellington says the September 18 transits, by the naval
frigate "Te Mana" and the replenishment oiler "Aotearoa," were part of a
three-month deployment in the Indo-Pacific.

According to a spokesperson, the "New Zealand Defense Force deployments to
the region demonstrate" a "continued interest and commitment to the region."

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is calling it "a routine activity" and says
he's not expecting any backlash from China.

Luxon says it was conducted in a safe and professional way. It was conducted
under international law and it was in international waters.

Here in Taiwan the Ministry of National Defense hasn't directly commented on
the transit by the New Zealand vessels.

However, it has released a statement saying as the strait is an international
waterway, all countries enjoy freedom of navigation and it "will not
proactively disclose the activities of friendly allied nations' aircraft and
vessels."

Posted on 2026-09-22 08:16:13

month

Reports are saying shipbuilder C-S-B-C clould deliver its first domestically
built submarine to the Navy as early as next month.

The reports come as the Narwhal was seen leaving Kaohsiung Harbor yesterday
for its 21st round of sea trials.

The submarine is also believed to have undergone its 15th submerged test.

C-S-B-C has been accumulating daily fines since missing an initial November
2025 deadline for handing the submarine over to the Navy.

However, C-S-B-C Chairman Chen Jeng-horng in June told local media that the
submarine is on track for delivery in the second half of this year.

Speaking at the time, Chen said submarine has not encountered any major
technical obstacles during sea trials and is undergoing detailed fine-tuning
and functional verification

Posted on 2026-09-22 08:16:13

October 1

Tai-Power is reiterating that electricity rates will remain unchanged from
October 1, despite higher fuel costs putting more pressure on the state-owned
company's finances.

The statement comes amid claims being made online that electricity prices are
set to rise by 12-per cent.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs announced last Friday that the Electricity
Price Review Committee voted to freeze average electricity rates at 3.78 per
kilowatt-hour through December of this year.

That figue is unchanged from the level set at its previous review in March.

The committee also voted to prioritize efforts to secure 71.1-billion N-T in
government funding for Tai-Power.

The economics ministry says that funding has been requested by Tai-Power in
order to offset a possible 12.83-per cent rate adjustment, mainly because of
higher fuel prices.

The Electricity Price Review Committee is next slated to meet in December.

Posted on 2026-09-22 08:16:13

And finally,

Yu Kai-wen and Huang Shih-yuan have added to Taiwan's medals tally at the
2026 Asian Games in Japan - by winning gold in the soft tennis mixed doubles.

They beat a Japanese pair in a closely contested match to secure Taiwan's
first gold medal at this year's Games.

The victory gave Taiwan its first Asian Games gold in soft tennis mixed
doubles since 2018.

Taiwan's men's and women's soft tennis teams won silver medals Sunday after
losing to Japan in their respective finals.

Wushu athlete Johnny Sun won silver in the men's taijiquan-taijijian,
securing Taiwan's first wushu medal at this year's Games.

However, Taiwan wasn't so luck on the field on Monday, a the men's baseball
team lost 5-0 to South Korea in its opening game at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya
Asian Games.

The team managed just two hits against South Korea's pitchers.

Taiwan play Thailand today before completing its Group B schedule against
Hong Kong tomorrow.

The top two teams in the group will advance to the next round.

Taiwan is now seventh in the overall medals table with one gold, three silver
and two bronze and is sitting between Hong Kong in sixth place and Macau in
eighth place.

Posted on 2026-09-22 06:55:13

summit

The United States, ‌Japan and South Korea have expressed support for Taiwan
ahead of a summit later this week between U-S leader Donald Trump and China's
Xi Jinping.

This, after a meeting between U-S Secretary of State Marco Rubio, South
Korea's Cho Hyun and Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi in New York.

They issued a joint statement vowing to stand firm "against economic coercion
and non-market policies and practices" and "arbitrary export restrictions
that disrupt supply chains."

The top diplomats also reaffirmed their commitment to a robust security
cooperation and the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the
Taiwan Strait.

They further "expressed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in
appropriate international organizations."

Posted on 2026-09-22 06:55:13

President Lai Ching-te says Kaohsiung's Baipu Industrial Park will help
strengthen Taiwan's semiconductor ecosystem, balance north-south development,
and boost the country's global competitiveness.

During the park's groundbreaking ceremony, Lai predicted the creation of more
than 4,000 jobs and 300-billion N-T in annual production value, and a new
milestone for Taiwan's semiconductor industry.

Lai said the park expects to draw on cooperation among the Ministry of
Economic Affairs, the Kaohsiung City Government and major semiconductor
companies, including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing ..

.. and he hopes it will become Taiwan's first semiconductor base focused on
developing, testing and certifying critical semiconductor equipment and raw
materials.

The president added the development is expected to shorten the time needed to
introduce new technologies and help Taiwan companies establish a foothold in
the global supply chain.

T-S-M-C earlier this month announced plans to develop a 3-hectare site in the
industrial park.

Posted on 2026-09-22 06:55:13

The Philippine government has reaffirmed its one China policy, but says that
position does not prevent Manila from pursuing relations with Taipei.

Manila's Department of Foreign Affairs said its policy is consistent and
clear... and remained in accordance with the 1975 Joint Communiqué between
the Philippines and China.

At the same time, the deparment says its policy "does not preclude the
Philippines from pursuing economic, cultural and functional cooperation with
Taiwan."

It also cited a recent comment by Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos
Jr., the D-F-A says the Philippines and Taiwan are close neighbors with a
long history of doing business together.

The statement was released after a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson last
week urged Manila to adhere to its one-China stance.

Posted on 2026-09-22 06:55:13

The Food and Drug Administration says its re-evaluating the safety of
contraceptive medications that contain desogestrel and etonogestrel... these
are two synthetic hormones used primarily in female contraceptive
medications.

There are six approved contraceptive medications that contain desogestrel,
and two that contain etonogestrel on the market in Taiwan.

The statement comes after the European Medicines Agency warned of a small
increased risk of meningioma associated with their prolonged use.

Meningiomas are tumors that develop in the tissue surrounding the brain and
spinal cord.

However, the F-D-A says there have been no reports in Taiwan of meningioma
associated with the use of desogestrel or etonogestrel over the past decade.

Posted on 2026-09-22 06:55:13

Police in Taipei say an investigation in ongoing into a stabbing at a Fubon
Life office building.

Authorities say a male Fubon Life employee working in its communications
department was stabbed by a man who entered the building located in the
city's Zhongshan District.

The intruder then stabbed himself.

Both men were unconscious with knife wounds when police and emgergency
service personnal arrived at the scene.

They were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.

Police say a preliminary investigation shows the suspect is believed to have
used another person's ID to enter the office and appeared to randomly attack
the Fubon Life employee.

Posted on 2026-09-22 06:55:13

Six Tang Prize laureates gathered at Taipei Bio-innovation Park over the
weekend to discuss major global challenges.

During the event, Rule of Law winner Bruce Ackerman spoke of the United
States, saying democracy there cannot simply return to the way it was before
Donald Trump.

The Yale professor has spent decades studying constitutional change and
proposing reforms to strengthen public participation in the democratic
process.

Asked what the United States should do after the Trump era, Ackerman said
reform proposals must be grounded in political reality.

Ackerman pointed to the Trump administration’s treatment of senior military
leaders as a reminder of the threat presidential actions can pose to the rule
of law and independent institutions.

He said the priority should be identifying reforms that are both important
and achievable.

Ackerman's argument carries a broader message for Taiwan and other
democracies: defending the rule of law requires recognizing institutional
threats and building realistic support for reform.

Posted on 2026-09-22 06:55:13

And,

The Tourism Administration says Matsu is this year's top spot for Mid-Autumn
Festival long weekend holiday getaways - with the outlying island's hotel
booking rate averaging 72-per cent.

That's followed by Tainan with an average hotel booking rate over the
four-day holiday weekend of 63-per cent and Penghu with a 62-per cent rate.

Tourism officials say travel preferences have changed since last year's
holiday - and have shifted away from the north this year.

Data shows that Taipei, New Taipei, and Miaoli recorded the highest booking
rates during last year’s Mid-Autumn Festival holiday.

However, Taipei and New Taipei both still have average hotel booking rates
above the national average of 54-per cent this year.

Yunlin, Chiayi, Yilan, Hualien, Taitung, and Kinmen also have booking rates
above the national average.

The Tourism Administration says hotel operators are still taking bookings and
final occupancy numbers are expected to rise as we get closer to the long
weekend.

Posted on 2026-09-21 20:11:14

A man stabbed an employee at a Fubon Life office in Taipei this morning
before apparently turning the knife on himself.

Police say both men were found unconscious and were taken to hospital for
emergency treatment.

The attack happened just after 11 AM at the company's offices on Jianguo
North Road in Zhongshan District.

Fubon Life says the injured employee works in its communications department
and was attacked by an intruder.

Police say the suspect may have used another person's ID to enter the
building before attacking the employee, apparently at random.

The suspect was initially misidentified because he was carrying the other
person's ID.

Police are investigating the suspect's identity and possible motive.

The conditions of both men were not immediately known.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-21 20:11:14

The magic of Harry Potter helped Taoyuan's dragon dance team win gold at the
Citizens Sports Games on Sunday.

The team scored 9.17 points with a freestyle routine inspired by the popular
franchise ... turning the dragon ball into a magical prop.

Performers used complex formations and movements to tell the story through
the dragon dance ... while incorporating Hogwarts elements into their
costumes and props.

The team says it repeatedly adjusted the dragon's movements, timing and
formations to better match the story and characters.

The victory gives Taoyuan its second consecutive title in the event ...
following its win at the 2024 Citizens Sports Games.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-21 20:11:14

In news from the world of sport...

Taiwanese karate athlete Shih Cheng-chung (石政中) has won bronze in the men's
under-67-kilogram kumite at the Asian Games in Nagoya.

The 26-year-old defeated Vietnam's Khuat Hai Nam 9-3 in the match to claim
his first Asian Games medal ....

.... and Taiwan's second karate medal at the meet.

Shih had missed out on a medal at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, losing in
the bronze-medal bout.

He said he briefly worried history might repeat itself when he found himself
fighting for bronze again in Nagoya.

But Shih said his coach's confidence helped him stay focused and compete
without hesitation.

Shih says he hopes to return at the next Asian Games and upgrade his bronze
to gold.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-21 18:07:13

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim says Taiwan will not compromise its freedoms or
democracy in response to growing pressure from China.

In an interview with Britain's Sky News today, Hsiao said Taiwan would not
provoke China, but would also not give in to threats or military pressure.

Her comments came ahead of this week's meeting between U-S President Donald
Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Sky News reported that Chinese Coast Guard activity near Taiwan reached
record levels this summer, with the average daily number of vessels up 37.5
percent from a year earlier.

A Taiwanese Coast Guard captain said Chinese vessels were appearing on almost
every mission and increasingly resembled warships.

China's Foreign Ministry says its patrols are legitimate exercises of
jurisdiction aimed at maintaining maritime order and regional stability.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-21 18:07:13

The Taoyuan Airport MRT will add extra services to handle an expected
increase in passengers during the Taiwan Design Expo ... which runs from
September 24th to October 11th.

The Taoyuan Metro Corporation says eight additional trains per hour in total
will operate in both directions between stations A12 Airport Terminal 1 and
A21 Huanbei during peak periods.

The extra services will run from 4 to 8 PM Monday through Thursday ... and
from 11 AM to 10 PM Friday through Sunday and on the upcoming public
holidays.

Passengers using the additional trains who are traveling towards Taipei ...
or to A22 Laojie River Station ... will need to transfer to a regular
service.

Visitors can take the Airport MRT directly to the expo's main exhibition area
in Qingpu ... while those heading to the Zhongli exhibition area can transfer
to a shuttle bus at Huanbei Station.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-21 18:07:13

Chunghwa Post says most post offices across Taiwan will be closed during the
upcoming four-day Mid-Autumn Festival and Teachers' Day holiday from
September 25th to 28th.

The only regular post office counter open to the public will be the National
Palace Museum Post Office in Taipei ... offering foreign currency exchange
and sales of stamps and other postal products.

Regular mail and parcels will not be collected or delivered during the
holiday.

However, express mail deliveries will continue as usual ... with designated
postal facilities accepting domestic and international express mail.

Some international express shipments requiring electronic customs information
will have to be mailed on regular business days.

Self-service facilities, including iPost boxes, ATMs and self-service post
offices, will remain available throughout the holiday.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-21 16:30:14

Local tribes in Hualien's Guangfu say, post-flooding reconstruction in the
area should be decided and guided by tribes there.

That's as Guangfu, in addition to neighboring Wanrong and Fenglin, marks the
one year anniversary of the Matai'an floods that killed at least 19 people,
while others remain missing.

Youth tribal representatives headed to the Executive Yuan to call for more
decision-making power to be handed over to tribal authorities directly in
accordance with the Indigenous Peoples Basic Law.

They say that local tribes were not only primarily traumatized by the floods
themselves, but they are secondarily harmed by the fragmented information
environment which has excluded tribal residents from decisions about
reconstruction.

The group of tribes has urged the Executive Yuan to make the county
governemnt develop a comprehensive plann, and to consider relocation as a
last result.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-21 16:30:14

DPP candidate for Yilan magistrate Lin Guo Zhang is pushing back on KMT
lawmakers' comments attacking his record as a lawyer.

Wang Hong Wei and Lin Pei Xiang have both come after Lin Guo Zhang in recent
days over claims that he defended people accused of sexual assault or scams
as a lawyer.

Lin Pei Xiang questioned if Lin Guo Zhang would be able to bring the hammer
down on scammers as magistrate if he spent time in court defending them.

But the DPP candidate's campaign team and legal counsel today emphasized
defendants' right to counsel, saying that the KMT lawmakers appeared to be
blatantly ignorant of this fact.

His lawyers added that Lin has handled over 1000 cases in his practice of
law, many assigned by the Legal Aid Foundation...

adding that, without legal aid, court proceedings would stall and justice for
victims would become nothing more than a pipe dream.

They accused Wang and Lin Pei Xiang of smearing Taiwan's judicial system for
political gain.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-21 16:30:14

The Tourism Administration says the Matsu Islands lead the nation in domestic
hotel booking rates for the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival and Teachers' Day
holiday.

Officials say Lienchiang County recorded an average booking rate of 72
percent for the first three days of the long weekend.

Tainan City and Penghu County took second and third place, as 11
administrative areas surpassed the national average of 54 percent.

Officials noted that travel preferences shifted away from last year's
northern focus toward offshore islands and southern destinations.

The agency added that hotel operators are still taking bookings, with final
occupancy numbers expected to rise closer to the weekend.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-09-21 14:55:13

Taiwan's first domestically built submarine, the Hai Kun, has returned to sea
for another round of submerged testing.

A military expert says the testing program appears to be entering its final
stages after the submarine spent more than a month in dry dock for
adjustments.

He says an October delivery to the Navy is possible if the remaining tests
proceed safely and smoothly.

However, he stressed that delivery would not mean the submarine is
immediately combat-ready.

The Hai Kun would still need further integrated testing and crew training
after delivery, a process 96 the expert says take several months or even more
than a year.

The Navy has not announced an official delivery date.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-21 14:55:13

A woman escaped serious injury after falling onto the tracks at Taiwan High
Speed Rail's Tainan Station just as a northbound train was approaching.

Railway police say the 38-year-old apparently became unwell and tripped while
waiting on the platform shortly after 8 a.m.

Station staff quickly activated the emergency stop system, and Train 612
stopped before reaching her.

The woman was able to return to the platform with only minor redness and
swelling to her knee.

Police say the case will be referred to prosecutors for investigation under a
law covering negligent acts that endanger rail traffic.

The incident delayed Train 612, and affected passengers delayed by at least
30 minutes will receive a 10-percent fare refund.

THSR says platform doors are being installed network-wide, with completion
expected in early 2028.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-21 14:55:13

Two Taiwanese chefs have brought the flavors of home to Buenos Aires as part
of an international Taiwanese cuisine tour.

Chefs Tsai Kun-cheng (蔡坤城) and Lin Yen-chao (林彥兆) demonstrated four dishes,
including peanut mochi and shrimp balls, for members of the local Taiwanese
community.

Tsai says the tour is not only about teaching people how to make Taiwanese
food, but also helping those who have lived abroad reconnect with flavors
they remember from childhood.

The Overseas Community Affairs Council is organizing the program, which
includes 115 events across 18 countries this year.

The Central and South America leg has also taken the chefs through Ecuador,
Paraguay and Brazil.

Organizers say the tour uses food to promote Taiwanese culture and strengthen
connections with overseas communities.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-21 14:18:13

The Philippines is emphaizing that it has the right to cooperate with
Taiwan...

following protests from Beijing over a new Taiwanese diplomatic office in
Cebu.

That's as Manila reaffirmed its recognition of the "One-China Policy."

Officials say that the policy remains consistent but added that it does not
mean Manila and Taipei cannot work with one another.

This comes after Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung announced last week that
Taiwan was preparing to open a second representative office in the
Philippines.

The day after the announcement, Chinese officials said that the plan to open
a new office was "doomed to fail."

(AH-CNA)

Posted on 2026-09-21 14:18:13

The DPP's Puma Shen is encouraging residents to remain civil in expressing
political support.

That's after the son of the owner of restaurant chain Formosa Chang's
expressed his support for incumbent mayor Chiang Wan An.

Shen emphasized that store owners were free to support whoever they wanted...

Adding that it is everyone's right to express their political views, as long
as they do not go so far as to leave negative comments for a restaurant over
politics or to physically attack someone.

He said that he hoped to return to city affairs rather than discussing who a
particular businessperson supports or doesn't.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-09-21 14:18:13

Asian shares were mostly up today, as investors look to this week's expected
meeting between the leaders of the US and China.

Korea's Kospi gained 1.8% while Japanese markets are closed for a holiday.

Here in Taiwan, the benchmark tai ex also made gains, picking up 538 points
to close the session at 47718

The turnover was 820 billion NT

Posted on 2026-09-21 12:30:14

Market analysts are closely watching developments ahead of Thursday's meeting
between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the
White House.

Trade, artificial intelligence and rare-earth supplies are expected to be key
issues, including whether the two sides extend their current tariff truce.

U.S. and Chinese economic officials reportedly held preparatory talks in New
York over the weekend.

For Taiwan equities, futures analysts say attention will be on whether
trading turnover can remain above 1-trillion N.T. ahead of the Mid-Autumn
Festival holiday, and whether major electronics stocks can maintain their
recent momentum.

Elevated oil prices amid continuing Middle East tensions are another factor
being watched.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-21 12:30:14

Nearly eight in 10 respondents to a Cathay Financial survey expect Taiwan's
inflation rate to remain above 2 percent a year from now.

The September survey found 35 percent expect inflation to be above 3 percent,
while another 15 percent expect it to be between 1 and 2 percent.

Everyday expenses appear to be shaping those expectations.

Thirty-five percent of respondents said prices for dining out, groceries and
household necessities were the main factor influencing their outlook, while
29 percent pointed to imported raw materials such as oil and steel.

Respondents expect inflation to average 2.51 percent this year.

That's higher than the government's latest forecast of 2.07 percent.

The survey also showed broader economic confidence improving, while optimism
toward Taiwan stocks rebounded.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-21 12:30:14

Thirty works have been shortlisted for this year's Taiwan Literature Awards
Golden Book Award, highlighting a wide range of languages, genres and
subjects in contemporary Taiwan literature.

The National Museum of Taiwan Literature says 276 works entered the
competition, with the finalists including 16 works of fiction, six poetry
collections and four each in essays and nonfiction.

Judges noted a strong showing from works written in Taiwanese Taigi, Hakka
and Indigenous languages, as more writers turn to their mother tongues for
literary creation.

The 30 finalists will compete for the Annual Golden Grand Laurel Award, worth
1-million N.T., as well as seven Golden Book Awards and three New Bud Awards.

The winners are expected to be announced in early November, with the awards
ceremony set for November 15 in Taipei.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-21 11:06:13

The Tai-Ex made solid gains in early trading this morning.

The main board added 548-points to reach a high of 47,728.

The rise came as tech stocks moved higher from Friday.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing saw its share price opened up 15 N-T to
hit at 2,475 N-T.

MediaTek rose over 3-per cent and A-S-E Technology surged more than 5-per
cent, while Delta Electronics, Hon Hai, and U-M-C were all trading in
positive territory.

Analysts say market momentum and investor confidence will continue to
recover, as companies in the A-I supply chain continues to benefit from
growing demand for AI computing and inference capabilities.

Posted on 2026-09-21 11:06:13

The Ministry of National Defense is reporting four Chinese air sorties
operating near Taiwan between 6AM Sunday and 6AM today.

Of those sorties, three aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait
and entered Taiwan's southwestern and eastern air defense identification
zones.

Those aircraft included support planes, helicopters and UAVs.

Seven Chinese Navy vessel and four official maritime patrol ships were also
spotted operating in Taiwan Strait over the same 24-hour period.

Posted on 2026-09-21 08:05:13

In news from and about Taiwan this morning,

Labor Minister Hung Sun-han arrived at Nanjing's Lukou International Airport
at around 8 o'clock last night to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic
Cooperation ministerial meeting.

Hung's trip to Nanjing means he has become the first Cabinet official in
President Lai Ching-te's administration to have visited China.

APEC staff were present on Hung's arrival and escorted the labor minister
through the airport via the courtesy channel.

He's slated to attend the APEC Human Resources Development Ministerial
Meeting later today.

Posted on 2026-09-21 08:05:13

The government will be holding earthquake and tsunami warning drills today.

The drill are part of National Disaster Prevention Day.

The Central Weather Administration will send a nationwide earthquake early
warning test to mobile phones at 9:21AM

While a tsunami warning test will be issued at 9:30AM for coastal townships
and cities, followed by an all-clear test 30-minutes later.

The government is stressing that all of today's test messages will clearly
identify themselves as part of the 2026 National Disaster Prevention Day
exercise.

Posted on 2026-09-21 08:05:13

CPC has left gasoline and diesel prices unchanged for this week despite
higher crude oil purchasing costs.

It means the price of 92 octane unleaded remains at 31.2 N-T per liter and
the price of premium diesel sits at 29.9 N-T per liter.

C-P-C says the decision not to raise prices at was made despite crude oil
prices jumping higher last week after Saudi pipelines were attacked, is an
effort to curb local inflationary pressures and keep domestic fuel prices
lower than in neighboring markets.

Under state-refiner's floating price mechanism, the average international
crude oil price rose from 115 U-S dollars per barrel to 125 U-S dollars per
barrel over the past week.

Posted on 2026-09-21 08:05:13

And,

Chien Hui-hsuan won Taiwan's first medal at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan
after taking bronze in the women's individual kata event in karate

It was Chien's first Asian Games medal and came after she beat her Iranian
opponent 4-1 in the bronze medal bout.

Meanwhile, Taiwan's men's and women's teams both lost to their Japanese
opponents in the team soft tennis finals to take silver.

The silver medal finish tied the women's soft tennis team's best-ever
performance at the Asian Games.

Taiwan is ninth in the overall medals table - between Kuwait and Hong Kong.

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