ICRT

Posted on 2026-09-26 13:47:13

Legislature begins a new session Tuesday, with the three major parties
setting out different priorities for the months ahead.

The KMT says it will focus on the central government budget and proposals for
larger cash handouts.

The DPP is prioritizing more than 40 bills covering business support, family
policies and social welfare.

Meanwhile, the TPP plans to push measures including expanded parental leave,
tax breaks for renters and parents, and increased support for elderly
farmers.

The party also wants to legalize surrogacy and euthanasia.

Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) is scheduled to deliver a policy report when the
new session opens on Tuesday.

The Executive Yuan confirms the session begins September 29th and says the
2026 supplementary budget and 2027 central government budget will be major
items for consideration.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-26 13:47:13

KMT Chairwoman Cheng Li-wun (鄭麗文) is calling on President Lai Ching-te (賴清德)
to seek the resumption of dialogue with Beijing following this week's
Trump-Xi summit.

Cheng says the meeting showed Washington and Beijing can maintain
communication despite major economic and geopolitical differences.

She says Taiwan should similarly pursue dialogue to reduce cross-strait
tensions, while continuing to strengthen its defenses and security ties with
the United States.

The DPP responded by saying Taiwan remains open to dialogue based on equality
and mutual respect, but accused Beijing of refusing such exchanges and
increasing military and other pressure on Taiwan.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-26 13:47:13

Authorities are investigating a suspected case of illegal coral harvesting in
Kenting National Park.
The park's management office says a diving instructor filmed a diver
apparently removing coral near the Hejie (合界) diving site in Hengchun (恆春) on
Wednesday.

However, officials say the video does not clearly establish whether coral was
actually taken.

The footage and other information have been turned over to police for
investigation.

The park office says it will also increase patrols and work with local diving
operators to report suspected illegal harvesting.

Violations of conservation restrictions under the Fisheries Act can carry up
to three years in prison and a fine of up to 150-thousand N.T.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-26 11:01:13

The Cabinet is preparing to push about 40 priority bills when the Legislature
begins its new session on Tuesday.

The proposals include measures to support families with children, small
businesses and startups, as well as changes to food safety, disaster
prevention and social welfare laws.

The Cabinet is also seeking quick approval of this year's supplementary
budget and the 2027 central government budget.

The 2027 proposal sets spending and revenue at about 3.93-trillion N.T., with
overall defense spending exceeding one-trillion N.T. for the first time.

The budget also includes funding for planned cash payments and pay
adjustments for military personnel, civil servants and teachers.

Premier Cho Jung-tai is scheduled to present the government's policy report
when the new legislative session opens Tuesday.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-26 11:01:13

Taiwan picked up another gold and five bronze medals at the Asian Games in
Japan on Friday.

Swimmer Wang Kuan-hung (王冠閎) won the men's 200-meter butterfly in one minute,
55.05 seconds, becoming Taiwan's first male swimmer to win Asian Games gold.

Weightlifters Kuo Hsing-chun (郭婞淳) and Chen Guan-ling (陳冠伶) both took bronze,
while Taiwan added another bronze in canoe sprint and two in kabaddi.

Meanwhile, Taiwan's baseball team beat China 9-1, keeping it in contention
for a place in the gold medal game.

Taiwan now faces host Japan tonight in its final super round game, with a
place in the gold medal game on the line.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-26 11:01:13

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is rejecting comments on Taiwan made by
Chinese President Xi Jinping during his state visit to the United States.

China's Foreign Ministry says Xi told U.S. President Donald Trump that
Washington should oppose Taiwan independence and handle the Taiwan issue with
caution during their White House meeting Thursday.

MOFA responded Friday, accusing Beijing of "distorting facts" to promote its
own position.

The ministry reiterated that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each
other, and said Taiwan's future can only be decided democratically by its
people.

Xi's three-day U.S. state visit concluded Friday.

The White House has released video and other material from the visit, but I
have not found a U.S. readout detailing Trump's response to Xi's comments on
Taiwan.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-09-25 18:00:13

U-S President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have remained
silent on whether Taiwan was discussed during their White House meeting in
Washington.

China's state-run Xinhua News Agency says Xi urged Washington to oppose
"Taiwan independence" and handle the Taiwan issue cautiously.

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Beijing is distorting the facts to
promote its own position, stressing that Taiwan's sovereignty belongs to its
people.

The ministry says Taiwan will continue working with the U-S and other
partners to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun says Taiwan should put its own security and interests
first, while strengthening its defenses and keeping the door open to dialogue
with Beijing.

The rulling DPP says Taiwan has never closed the door to dialogue, but argues
that Beijing must engage with Taiwan on an equal and mutually respectful
basis.

Posted on 2026-09-25 17:20:13

The DPP is pushing back against KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun's call for President
Lai Ching-te to reopen cross-strait dialogue following this week's Trump-Xi
summit in Washington.

The DPP says Taiwan's door to dialogue with the world has never been closed
... but Beijing has refused to engage Taiwan on what the party describes as
an equal and mutually respectful basis.

It says Beijing has instead increased military and other forms of pressure on
Taiwan and the region.

The DPP says if Beijing can sit down with Washington despite major
disagreements ... it should also be willing to engage Taiwan through
dialogue.

The party is calling on Beijing to return to a rules-based international
order ... saying cross-strait dialogue is possible if it is based on equality
and mutual respect.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 17:20:13

Labor representatives expressed disappointment while major business groups
called for relief measures following yesterday's decision to raise Taiwan's
minimum wage.

The representatives said the 4.7-percent hike fell short of their
expectations, after they had called for a nearly 8-percent increase to give
workers a greater share of Taiwan's economic growth.

Business groups, meanwhile, warned that higher wages would add to costs for
labor-intensive industries and smaller businesses.

They called on the government to provide more support, including help with
insurance costs and funding for businesses seeking to upgrade and improve
productivity.

The new minimum wage - of 30 thousand 900 NT per month or 205 NT per hour -
is expected to take effect in January, pending Cabinet approval.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 17:20:13

A high school student injured in a scissors attack in New Taipei's Ruifang
District is showing stable vital signs after undergoing surgery.

Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital says the 16-year-old remains in
intensive care for further treatment and observation.

The attack happened Thursday afternoon when two students got into a
confrontation off campus.

Police say the alleged attacker, a junior high school student at the same
private school, used a pair of scissors to stab the victim in the neck before
turning himself in.

The suspect told police the victim had mocked and provoked him.

The school said the two students were not well acquainted and had no reported
history of bullying.

A juvenile court has ordered the suspect detained.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 16:15:13

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is rejecting Beijing's comments about Taiwan
.... off the heels of talks between U-S President Donald Trump and Chinese
leader Xi Jinping in Washington.

China's Foreign Ministry says Xi urged the U-S to oppose Taiwan independence
... and handle the Taiwan issue cautiously.

MOFA says Beijing is once again distorting the facts to promote its own
position ...

... saying Taiwan's sovereignty belongs to its people ... and the Chinese
Communist government has no right to represent Taiwan.

The ministry says Taiwan will continue working with the U-S and other
partners to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

It also points to recent statements from the U-S, Japan and South Korea ...
and other countries ...

.... stressing the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and
opposing unilateral changes to the status quo.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 16:15:13

In similar news,

KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun says Taiwan should put its own security and interests
first ... following the talks between Trump and Xi.

Cheng says Taiwan does not need to choose between being closer to the U-S or
China ... and should instead find its own path amid growing competition
between the two powers.

She says Taiwan should strengthen its defenses while keeping the door open to
dialogue ... arguing that deterrence and efforts to reduce tensions can go
hand in hand.

Cheng is also calling on President Lai Ching-te to explain the government's
assessment of the latest U-S-China developments ... and propose concrete
steps to reduce risks in the Taiwan Strait.

She says the government should reopen cross-strait dialogue ... while
protecting Taiwan's security, democracy, prosperity and peace.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 16:15:13

Taoyuan has confirmed its first case of H5N1 bird flu in more than eight
years ... after birds at a farm in Dayuan District began dying unexpectedly.

Authorities culled about 2,500 guinea fowl ... and disinfected the farm and
nearby roads after tests confirmed the virus.

Officials say authorities responded within two hours of the farm reporting
unusual deaths on the afternoon of the 23rd ... taking samples and
restricting movement in and out of the the site.

Officials are also checking other poultry farms in the surrounding area.

They say this is currently the only confirmed case ... and there has been no
impact on local poultry supplies.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 15:06:13

Heavy traffic is slowing parts of major freeways across Taiwan as the
Mid-Autumn and Teachers' Day long weekend gets underway.

Currently ... on National Freeway 3 southbound from Huandong to Nangang,
traffic speeds have slowed to just 4 kilometers per hour on ...

... while northbound lanes between Xindian and the Muzha Service Station have
slowed to around 17 kilometers per hour.

On National Freeway 1, southbound lanes in the Hsinchu area are seeing the
heaviest congestion ... with traffic crawling at around 16 kilometers per
hour from the Hukou Service Area all to the way to Hsinchu and beyond ...

And if your heading to Yilan or Hualien from Taipei ...

... National Freeway 5 southbound from the Pinling System Interchange to
Toucheng ... is also expected to see heavy congestion this afternoon ... so
drivers are being advised to wait until after 5 PM before heading out.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 15:06:13

A retired U-S Navy admiral is urging Washington to move ahead with arms sale
notifications for Taiwan following U-S President Donald Trump's summit with
Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Mark Montgomery said Friday that the summit had delayed proposed arms sales
and urged the U-S to avoid further delays.

He said notifying Congress of a sale is separate from delivering the weapons,
and argued that delivery constraints should not prevent the notifications.

Montgomery suggested a proposed $14 billion U-S dollar arms package, stalled
since early this year, could be divided into smaller packages.

The White House has not said whether Taiwan was discussed at the summit,
while China's state-run Xinhua News Agency said Xi urged Washington to oppose
"Taiwan independence."

Montgomery also called for greater military cooperation through training and
exercises.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 15:06:13

Doctors are urging people to take extra care when barbecuing over the
Mid-Autumn Festival ... as emergency room visits typically rise by 20 to 30
percent around the holiday period.

Taichung Hospital says stomach and respiratory infections are among the main
reasons for the increase.

Doctors say many stomach illnesses are linked to undercooked meat and seafood
... or using the same utensils for raw and cooked food.

They recommend keeping raw and cooked food separate ... washing hands
regularly and making sure meat and seafood are thoroughly cooked.

Nationwide, about 126-thousand people sought treatment for stomach-related
illnesses last week ... the highest level in around five years.

Norovirus was the most commonly detected cause.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 13:07:14

U-S President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping did not respond
to questions yesterday about whether Taiwan was discussed during their
meeting at the White House.

Trump described the talks as "great" but did not answer questions about
Taiwan, artificial intelligence or jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai.

Xi also declined to respond when reporters asked about Taiwan after the
meeting.

However, China's state-run Xinhua News Agency reported that Xi raised the
Taiwan issue, saying Beijing's position on "national unification and
territorial integrity" was clear.

Xinhua said Xi urged Washington to oppose "Taiwan independence" and
"prudently handle the Taiwan question."

The White House had not released its own readout of the meeting as of
Thursday night.

The talks marked Xi's first visit to the White House in 11 years and his
second meeting with Trump this year.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-09-25 13:07:14

Holiday travel is getting off to a smooth start at Taoyuan International
Airport ... despite nearly 143-thousand passengers expected today.

The airport about 74-thousand passengers were expected to depart this morning
... with the busiest period between 8 and 10.

Many travelers arrived about three hours early ... while airport agencies
added staff to handle the holiday crowds.

The airport expects about 930-thousand passengers during the six-day holiday
travel period through September 29th.

The busiest departure days are expected to be yesterday and today ... while
arrivals are expected to peak on Monday, September 28th.

Passengers are being advised to arrive three hours before their flights ...
and use self-service check-in and baggage-drop facilities.

(IG)

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.

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