ICRT

Posted on 2026-04-15 14:16:13

The Minister of Health and Welfare says, local governments should increase
the frequency of food safety inspections...

as there's been a noticeable rise in mass food poisioning cases recently.

Minister Shi Chong Liang says that his ministry will assist local governments
to hire more personnel to conduct such checks.

He said that future subsidies to local governments will require them to
increase manpower.

Shi added that there are 3 lines of defense when it comes to food safety,
with inspections being the third...

describing the other two as internal management, and the second as
third-party certifications.

The minister's statements come as there have been mass food poisoning
incidents recently in Taoyuan, New Taipei, and Kaohsiung, among others.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-15 14:16:13

Authorities in Taoyuan are reporting a growing number of suspected food
poisoning cases linked to a local bento restaurant.

The city's Department of Public Health says a total of 104 people have
reported symptoms as of noon, with most seeking medical treatment.

Officials say the affected individuals began feeling unwell after eating
meals from the restaurant on Monday.

The business has been ordered to suspend operations while food and
environmental samples are tested.

Preliminary lab results could be available later this week.

If violations are confirmed, the operator could face fines up to 200 million
NT, and possible legal action..

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-15 14:16:13

The Civial Aviation Administration says airlines in Taiwan are planning to
cancel at least 52 international flights per week starting in May, that's
1.7-percent of total flights.

That's a big increase compared with April, when 7 flights per week were
canceled.

According to the International Air Transport Association data, the global
average price of jet fuel reached 209 U.S. dollars per barrel early this
month, up sharply from 99 dollars per barrel in late Feburary.

The Transport Ministry said fuel supplies from C-P-C and Formosa
Petrochemical remain stable, although some airports in countries such as
Myanmar, Vietnam, and the Philippines have begun limiting fuel volumes.

The C-A-A says it will communicate with airlines in the hope that they won't
cut flights during summer peak travel season.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-15 14:16:13

Taiwan shares are up today, with the benchmark tai ex closing at another
record high of 36722 after gaining 426 points

the turnover was 982 billion NT

Posted on 2026-04-15 13:06:14

Former Taoyuan Mayor Zheng Wen-can has gone on trial over alleged corruption
tied to land development in the Hwa Ya Technology Park.

The court session focused on whether a 5-million NT payment was a bribe or a
political donation.

Zheng was indicted in August 2024 and facing a maximum prison term of 12
years.

After more than a year of preparations, the Taoyuan District Court yesterday
conducted the first trial of Zheng and former Formosa Plastics Management
Director Yang Zhao-lin (楊兆麟).

Yang is allegedly the mastermind behind the bribery case.

According to prosecutors, the 5-million-NT cash was delivered to Zheng’s
residence in 2017 by a cooperating witness surnamed Liao to change a
development project from zone expropriation to self-initiated urban land
readjustment.

A year later, Liao was told to deliver another 6 million NT to Zheng as he
was running for a 2nd term.

But Zheng later returned the full 11 million NT in cash to Liao, reportedly
after suspecting he was under surveillance.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-15 13:06:16

The Central Election Commission says it has received official notice from the
Legislative Yuan canceling former TPP lawmaker Lee Chen-hsiu's legislator
status.

Lee's lost her seat after the TPP Central Review Committee decided to revoke
her party membership on Monday.

The C-E-C says it'll proceed with a replacement in accordance with the Civil
Servants Election and Recall Act.

Under the law, the Commission must announce a replacement within 15 days of
receiving the official notice from the legislature.

The C-E-C says it will formally approve the replacement at a meeting later
on, as it currently has only four commissioners, short of the required
majority of five.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-15 13:06:16

Matsu Blue Tears is a seasonal phenomenon in which blue fluorescent lights
shimmer in the waters around Matsu.

Visitors can see them after 8 p.m. from April to September in a variety of
ways.

Popular viewing spots include Qinbi Beach in Beigan, Fuzheng Beach in Dongju,
and Jinsha Beach, where visitors can watch the glowing algae in the water.

They can also take a night rowing boat ride or join a fishing boat tour.

The glow comes from bioluminescent algae that emit blue light when disturbed.

Visit the Matsu National Scenic Area Headquarters for more information.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-15 12:16:14

Transport Minister Chen Shi-kai says he hopes China will not use tourism as a
political precondition.

The statement came as Chen was preparing to attend a meeting of the
Legislative Transportation Committee earlier this morning and was asked about
China's proposed 10 measures for Taiwan.

The measures were outlined by Beijing following K-M-T Chairwoman Cheng
Li-wun's recent trip to China and included cross-strait tourism.

According to the transport minister, there are currently 10 direct
cross-strait routes, with a planned 420 flights per week, but only 310
flights are actually operating, which indicates that demand is not that high.

Chen says there are still 13 destinations in China open for charter flights,
but no operators have applied for them.

The transport minister went on to say Taiwan's tourism market has seen stable
growth in recent years, and the government doesn't want to return to relying
on a single market to boost tourism numbers.

However, Chen added he welcomes constructive discussions on tourism aimed at
restoring healthy and sustainable cross-strait tourism exchanges.

Posted on 2026-04-15 12:16:14

Hongtai Group Chairman Lin Hung-nan has been released on bail of 10-million
N-T as part of an investigation into allegations the group's life insurance
unit violated the Securities and Exchange Act.

According to the Taipei District Prosecutors' Office, the company allegedly
engaged in irregular trading during the auction of a plot of land in the
Tamsui area in 2019.

Lin was released on bail after being questioned overnight following raids on
12 locations.

Those locations included Lin's residences, the residence of a former Hongtai
Life Insurance chairman and the insurance company's main office.

The former Hongtai Life Insurance chairman was released on 8-million N-T
bail, a company manager was released on bail of 5-million N-T, while Lin's
wife and seven other people were released on bail of 300,000 N-T.

Hongtai Life Insurance has issued a statement saying it strictly adheres to
all related laws and regulations and continuously strengthens its corporate
governance and risk control mechanisms.

Posted on 2026-04-15 12:16:14

Nikkei Asia is reporting that Japan's PayPay will make its QR code-based
mobile payment services available here in Taiwan.

The company says it will be rolling out the services at some 400,000
convenience stores, restaurants and other businesses islandwide at the end of
this month.

Taiwan will become the company's second overseas market after PayPay expanded
into South Korea last September.

Nikkei Asia says PayPay is anticipating strong use by travelers from Japan to
Taiwan.

Payments will use the international network Hivex and money transfers between
PayPay users also will be possible.

Posted on 2026-04-15 12:16:14

Finally in sports new and last night's Chinese Professional Baseball League.

The third place Fubon Guardians beat the league leading Wei Chuan Dragons 4-3
at the Xinzhuang Stadium in New Taipei.

While the T-S-G Hawks moved into second place in the standings after beating
the bottom of the table C-T-B-C Brothers 8-4 at the Intercontinental Stadium
in Taichung.

In this evening's games.

The Dragons and the Guardians meet again in New Taipei.

The Brothers and the Hawks play again in Taichung.

While the Rakuten Monkeys meet the Uni-President Lions at the Rakuten Stadium
in Taoyuan.

All three games begin at 6:30.

Posted on 2026-04-15 11:06:14

Taipei MRT says, service on the brown line has returned to normal after an
issue with a train caused massive crowds.

The incident took place this morning just past 8am as the train left Muzha
station.

Officials add that a preliminary analysis suggests that the problem
originated in the train door's detection circuit.

The train is currently undergoing repairs, and brown line operations have
returned to normal.

Threads users said that the northbound train stopped at Wanfang Hospital when
an announcement came over the intercom saying that there was an issue with
the train...

and that it returned to normal about 6 minutes later.

The issue caused huge crowds at Zhongxiao Fuxing and Nanjing Fuxing, and the
roughly 50 passengers on board the train at the time were forced to disembark
and get on the next train.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-15 11:06:15

The Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum is holding a new
interactive exhibit celebrating the Year of the Horse.

Galloping Radiance combined light and shadow technology with interactive
installations to create a multisensory environment.

The museum says, the exhibit plays on Giuseppe Castiglione's "One Hundred
Horses" to project the energy and rhythm of the horse.

From now through mid May, visitors can view the exhibit for free in the first
floor lobby of the Chiayi Palace Museum.

Posted on 2026-04-15 08:13:13

concessions

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will maintain a retaliatory measure
against Seoul, despite South Korea's move to no longer show Taiwan as part of
China on its electronic arrival card system dropdown menu.

According to ministry spokesman Hsiao Kuang-wei, South Korean nationals will
continue to be listed as from "South Korea" on their A-R-Cs based on the
principle of reciprocity.

Speaking to reporters, Hsiao failed to explain why the Lai administration has
chosen to take such action ...

... despite South Korea last week removed the "previous departure place" and
"next destination" fields with the questionable dropdown menus from its
e-arrival card system.

However, sources are being cited as saying Seoul has listed Taiwan nationals'
nationality on its residency cards as "China (Taiwan)" for more than a
decade, and the government has persistently protested against that ...

... but the South Korean government has failed to respond to those protests.

Posted on 2026-04-15 08:13:13

The Taipei District Court has sentenced former D-P-P lawmaker Chen Ou-po to
16 years in prison after finding him guilty of corruption and embezzlement.

The court also found Chen's wife, Hsu Hui-yu guilty of similar charges and
sentenced her to four years and six months in prison.

Prosecutors had been seeking a combined 24-year sentence for Chen.

Chen, his wife and 14 other suspects were indicted by the Taipei District
Prosecutors' Office in August of last year on corruption and embezzlement
charges.

Prosecutors say Chen accepted bribes from United Logistics International
totaling 4.63-million N-T, took bribes, including a 500,000 N-T payoff from
Rentcar Quality Assurance Association and inflated the salaries of multiple
publicly funded assistants.

Chen served as a lawmaker from 2012 to 2024.

The district court ruling can be appealed.

Posted on 2026-04-15 08:13:13

The Ministry of Labor is reminding Alien Permanent Resident Certificate
holders covered by changes introduced at the turn of the year to make sure
their employer has enrolled them in employment insurance.

Prior to the changes, only Taiwan citizens and foreign spouses married to
Taiwan nationals were covered by employment insurance.

Other foreign nationals could not enroll.

However, three categories of foreign professionals in Taiwan with permanent
residency are now required to enroll in employment insurance, which will
entitle them to certain benefits.

The three groups are classified as "foreign professionals," "foreign
specialist professionals" and "foreign senior professionals."

According to the labor ministry's Department of Labor Insurance, the change
is part of the government's efforts to "recruit the professional talent
needed for national economic development."

Posted on 2026-04-15 08:13:14

The Taoyuan City Department of Health says 61 people have now reported
falling ill after eating food from the Shang Ye barbecue rice lunchbox
store's Neili branch.

According to city health officials, all 61 customers sought medical treatment
for vomiting, diarrhea and stomachache after purchasing food from the branch.

Most of those sickened had purchased a boxed lunch or dinner from the store
on Monday.

The store hase been ordered the suspend operations and health officials have
inspected its food preparation processes, work environment, staff hygiene,
and food storage conditions.

Health officials have also taken environmental samples and samples of
high-risk food items for testing.

Those tests will take between three and five weeks.

The shop is facing a possible fine of up to 200-million N-T under the Act
Governing Food Safety and Sanitation.

Posted on 2026-04-15 08:13:14

The Food and Drug Administration has seized batch of truffle cheese imported
from Italy after tests found excessive levels of E. coli.

According to the F-D-A, five samples from the 2.87-kilogram shipment
contained between 23 and 93 most probable number per gram.

Under regulations, no more than two out of five samples may contain between
10 and 100 most probable number per gram of E. coli, while no sample may
exceed 100 most probable number per gram of E. coli.

The F-D-A says the importer will now be subject to an increased inspection
rate of between 20 and 50-per cent.

Posted on 2026-04-15 08:13:14

And finally,

Authorities say an explosion that split a section of pavement in New Taipei's
Banqiao District - sending debris into the air - was caused by termites
biting through a high-voltage cable.

The explosion occurred at just afternoon yesterday at an intersection near
the Huacui Bridge to Taipei.

No injuries were reported.

The New Taipei Public Works Department says it called Tai-Power and the
natural gas distributor to inspect the site, and later confirmed that the
blast was caused by damage to a 20,000-volt underground cable.

According to an initial investigation by Tai-Power, termites are believed to
have chewed through a cable connector, causing the cable to short circuit and
trigger a blast of air that ripped through the pavement, leaving a
2-square-meter hole.

The explosion caused a brief power outage that affected 4,726 households.

Posted on 2026-04-15 07:30:13

Lawmakers have passed the Childcare Services Act.

The Act stipulates that any childcare provider who abuses or sexually
assaults children under the age of 2 faces fines of up to 600,000 N-T.

It stipulates that the name of such offenders and the childcare institutions
involved will be publicly disclosed and requires childcare providers and
facilities to upload CCTV footage to government-designated data platforms,
with mandatory retention of at least 30 days.

The Cabinet proposed the law following a 2023 childcare abuse case involving
two certified home-based nurses - who abused a one-year-old child who later
died while in their care.

Childcare services are currently regulated under the Child and Juvenile
Welfare and Rights Protection Act and other related regulations.

The act covers a wide range of matters concerning children and youths.

However, only five out of 118 provisions regulate home-based childcare
services.

Under the new law, the Ministry of Health will be responsible for formulating
national childcare policy, conducting regular assessments of childcare needs,
and compiling nationwide data on services.

The date of implementation will now be set by the Cabinet.

Posted on 2026-04-15 07:30:16

Lawmakers are slated to hold further negotiations on the central government's
2026 general budget and the Cabinet's special defense bill later today.

Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu is set to host the cross-party caucus meeting.

Today's talks will be taking place after the K-M-T failed to show up to a
previously planned cross-party caucus meeting as party chair Cheng Li-wen was
still visiting China.

The D-P-P legislative caucus says it's optimistic that the Cabinet's
1.25-trillion N-T defense bill will pass.

The talks are reportedly set to begin at 3 o'clock this afternoon.

Posted on 2026-04-15 07:30:20

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has held talks with Lithuania's new trade
representative to Taiwan.

Speaking during the meeting with Karolis Pilip-auskas, Lin pledged the Lai
administration's willingness to promote closer bilateral ties with the Baltic
state.

The foreign minister also said he hopes the two sides will continue to
collaborate in semiconductor development, artificial intelligence, green
energy, and drone technology to jointly enhance democratic supply chain
resilience.

The meeting comes a week after reports by Lithuanian media said Lithuania's
Foreign Ministry had outlined priority economic sectors and potential
projects aimed at strengthening cooperation with Taiwan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs here in Taiwan later confirmed that it
received a proposal last month calling for increased Taiwan investment in
Lithuania and the plan is currently under review.

Pilipauskas took up his post as Lithuania's trade representative to Taiwan
earlier this year.

The foreign ministry says Taiwan has invested more than 16.8-million euros in
Lithuania since 2021.

Posted on 2026-04-15 07:30:20

The D-P-P has named Deputy Justice Minister Huang Shih-chieh as its candidate
for the Taoyuan mayoral election.

According to the party's Election Strategy Committee, it opted to choose
Huang for the race due to his strong ties to Taoyuan and his expertise in
local policy.

Huang will be running against incumbent K-M-T Taoyuan City Mayor - Simon
Zhang.

The D-P-P has also nominated former lawmaker Zhuang Ching-cheng as its
candidate for the Hsinchu City mayoral race - saying his experience in
technology and engineering make him the best choice for the city.

Both nominations will now be submitted to the D-P-P's Central Executive
Committee for approval.

Posted on 2026-04-15 07:30:21

China

The Kaohsiung Ciaotou District Prosecutors' Office has indicted nine active
and former military officers and an alleged accomplice on suspicion of
leaking military intelligence to China.

According to the prosecutors' office, the nine active and discharged
personnel include officers from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.

They had ranks as high as major.

The case centers allegations that the alleged accomplice was recruited by
Chinese intelligence and paid to open a private bank account for bribes and
loans for military officers in need of money.

Prosecutors says those who borrowed money from the man were later coerced
into making videos in which they vowed to "switch their allegiance" to China.

The accused serving and former military personnel also allegedly collected
and handed videos of base activity as well as photographs of sensitive
documents in exchange for money.

All of the suspects have been charged with violating the National Security
Act, the Classified National Security Information Protection Act, the
Anti-Corruption Act and the Money Laundering Control Act.

Posted on 2026-04-15 07:30:21

The Centers for Disease Control says a foreign woman in her 60s has tested
positive for menin-gococcal meningitis.

It's the fifth case of the bacterial infection that affects membranes
surrounding the brain and spinal cord to have been reported by the C-D-C
this year.

According to C-D-C Deputy Director-General Tseng Shu-hui, a total of 21
people have been identified as contacts of the woman and they include travel
companions and hospital staff.

All of them are being monitored through tomorrow.

Three of them have been classified as close contacts and have been given
preventive medication.

The C-D-C says none of them have shown any symptoms so far.

Meningococcal meningitis is mainly transmitted through saliva and respiratory
secretions, but the C-D-C says it has a relatively low infectivity and
typically requires prolonged close contact for transmission.

Posted on 2026-04-15 07:30:21

The Dajia Matsu pilgrimage is set to begin this Friday.

The annual pilgrimage will pass through Taichung, Changhua, Yunlin and Chiayi
before returning to the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple on April 26.

The Dajia Jenn Lann Temple has said the theme of this year's pilgrimage is
"kindness" and the annual procession will be showcasing the "best things" in
Taiwan.

People along the over 300 kilometer route will be offering snacks, water,
massage services and medical assistance.

The Taichung City Police Department has said it plans to use drones and a
mobile imaging alert system this year to provide real-time video coverage
along the route.

The Dajia Jenn Lann Temple says an estimated 600,000 devotees gathered
outside the temple on the first day of the pilgrimage last year.

Posted on 2026-04-15 07:30:21

And finally,

Taipei's Songshan Airport is now offering the "One ID" facial recognition
system for international flights - as part of efforts to reduce waiting times
for passengers.

The "One ID" system was launched earlier this month and allows passengers to
pass seamlessly from arrival at the airport to boarding.

Passengers can complete the registration process either at a check-in desk or
a self-check-in kiosk.

The airport operator says registered passengers can then use One ID facial
recognition to check in, check their luggage, pass through customs, enter
airport lounges, and board their flights.

However, passengers will still need to go through the standard immigration
and passport inspection procedures.

The airport has set up 18 One ID-enabled self-check-in kiosks, 12 kiosks for
self-checking luggage, six for the e-Gate immigration system, and two at each
of the six international departure gates.

Figures show Taipei Songshan Airport handles around 2.8 million international
passengers a year.

Posted on 2026-04-14 19:49:13

TPP Chairman Huang Kuo-chang says the party's decision to dismiss former
lawmaker Li Zhen-hsiu had nothing to do with her nationality.

He says Li had asked the party to continue paying her salary and benefits for
the remainder of her term in exchange for stepping down.

Huang says he was shocked by the request and that it was impossible for the
party to accept.

His comments come after the TPP's Central Review Committee revoked Li's
membership yesterday.

Li says she accepts the decision, but insists she will not take a single
dollar from the party and is not seeking any position.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-14 19:49:13

New Taipei Metro is launching a commemorative light rail day pass to mark the
upcoming completion and opening of the Tamsui River Bridge.

The limited-edition pass will go on sale this Thursday, celebrating what
officials call a new international landmark spanning the Tamsui River
estuary.

Two special designs will be available — one capturing the bridge at sunrise,
and another highlighting Tamsui's famous sunset views.

The pass will cost 50 NT and allows unlimited rides on the Danhai Light Rail
for one day.

It will be available at Hongshulin Station and Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf
Station.

Officials say the pass will give visitors an easy way to travel to the area
and view the new bridge.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-14 18:24:13

The Ciaotou District Prosecutors Office has indicted ten people for allegedly
leaking sensitive information to China.

Those charged include active and former military personnel, with ranks as
high as major across the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.

Prosecutors say the case centers on a civilian suspect accused of working
with Chinese intelligence, recruiting financially vulnerable officers and
arranging payments.

Authorities say some personnel were pressured into pledging allegiance to
China after taking loans, while others provided videos of military facilities
and sensitive documents in exchange for money.

The suspects face multiple charges, including violations of national security
and anti-corruption laws, with prosecutors seeking the harshest penalties.

The case will also mark Taiwan's first national security trial to involve
citizen judges.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-04-14 18:24:13

Officials have stopped a shipment of imported truffle cheese from Italy ...
after it tested positive for excessive levels of E. coli bacteria.

The Food and Drug Administration says multiple samples from the batch
exceeded allowable limits, and the shipment will be returned or destroyed.

The importer will also face stricter inspection requirements on future
imports.

In a separate case, two shipments of asparagus from Thailand were found to
contain pesticide residues above legal limits.

Authorities say the importer will now face 100 percent inspection on future
shipments.

Officials say asparagus imports from Thailand remain subject to enhanced
inspection rates of 20 to 50 percent until mid-May.

The food watchdog also flagged other non-compliant imports, including
products from Indonesia, Chile, China, Vietnam and Egypt.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-04-14 18:24:13

Tainan is one step closer to launching its first-ever MRT line .... as the
city's Blue Line project enters its final review stage.

Officials say the central government has begun on-site inspections and design
reviews, with hopes of awarding construction contracts by the end of this
year.

The first phase of the line will span about 8.5 kilometers, featuring 10
elevated stations and a depot, connecting key districts across the city.

Authorities say the project is a major step forward for Tainan's public
transportation development, with future extensions planned to link with
high-speed rail and neighboring transit systems.

If approved on schedule, construction is expected to take around six years to
complete.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-14 17:07:13

The DPP is urging calm following concerns from the general public over the
possibility of Taiwan opening to some Indian migrant workers later this year.

DPP Legislative Caucus leader Fan Yun said they would strictly supervise any
future developments and added that they're hoping the public would not
discriminate against any one people or country.

The Ministry of Labor previously said that the first batch of migrant workers
from India may arrive this year.

Minister Hong Shen Han also reiterated that opening up to Indian migrant
workers has bipartisan support...

and said that these workers must both fill a need by local businesses and
also be properly vetted by New Delhi.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-14 17:07:13

Activists of Nantou's Mingjian township today showed up at another
environmental impact assessment meeting to propose alternatives to the
contentious incinerator project.

The Mingjian Township Anti-Incinerator Self-Help Group said that they believe
the county governemtn should do more to find alternative means of dealing
with waste in a sustainable means rather than relying on just an incinerator.

At today's meeting, activists and other Mingjian residents said that there
should be more emphasis on sorting and reducing waste as well as regional
cooperation...

echoing an earlier proposal made by DPP magisterial candidate Wen Shi Zheng.

Activists voiced their concerns over how the incinerator may impact fruit and
tea crops in a township that is significantly economically reliant on
agriculture.

Meanwhile New Power Party Chair Claire Wang accused the Nantou County
government of becoming an "incinerator public relations company" and
attempting to prevent citizens from participating in public affairs.

County officials say they have advanced cooperation with other municipalities
but it hasn't been enough to combat the waste problem.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-14 17:07:13

Doctors are warning that cutting calories alone may not be an effective or
healthy way to lose weight.

Medical experts say many people focus too much on the number on the scale,
while ignoring body composition.

They caution that extreme dieting can lead to muscle loss, causing weight to
drop while body fat remains high.

Doctors say this can lead to fatigue, hair loss, brittle nails and other
health issues, as well as rapid weight regain once normal eating resumes.

Instead, experts recommend combining a balanced diet with regular exercise,
along with sufficient protein intake to help maintain muscle mass.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-14 16:14:13

The DPP Election Strategy Committee has announced that it plans to nominate
Huang Shi-jie 黃世杰, the deputy Justice Minister, to run for Taoyuan mayor
and Zhuang Jing-cheng 莊競程 for Hsin-chu city.

DPP spokesperson Wu Zheng said that Huang, a former lawmaker is deeply rooted
in Taoyuan, with experience primarily in legal affairs.

He'll face incumbent KMT's Simon Zhang.

Meanwhile Zhuang Jing-cheng, also a former lawmaker, comes from an academic
background with experience in technology and engineering, making him
especially fit for Hsinchu city.

He will be pitted against Gao Hong An, who's an independent.

The DPP is yet to decide on a name to run the capital city.

Meanwhile in Hsinchu County, it is understood that, although calls have been
rising for Zhubei Mayor Zheng Chao Fang to run, he is still considering.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-14 16:14:13

Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu is set to host negotiations tomorrow on the
proposed special defense budget and the central government budget.

The DPP legislative caucus says, they're optimistic, but still say they hope
their KMT counterparts will step up to the plate.

DPP Caucus leaders Fan Yun and Chen Pei yu noted that KMT lawmakers recently
did not show up for talks at the Legislative Defense and Foreign Affairs
committee over the budget.

Meanwhile, Han is planning to lead a cross-party delegation to Europe next
month at the invitation of France and the U.K., and the DPP caucus says it
will encourage its lawmakers to join.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-14 16:14:13

Taiwan Railway is urging passengers to be extra careful with power banks ...
after one exploded on a commuter train this morning ... filling the carriage
with smoke.

The incident happened just after 6:30 AM at Hsinchu Station.

Station staff and police quickly extinguished the flames and evacuated
passengers onto the platform.

No injuries were reported.

However, the blast caused a 32-minute delay on the Nei-wan Line as forensic
teams collected evidence ... and the affected train was replaced.

Officials remind travelers to only use certified power banks.

They also warn against charging devices inside bags where air cannot
circulate, as poor ventilation can lead to dangerous overheating ...

... and to avoid using phones while they are plugged into a power bank to
prevent overheating.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-14 15:07:13

Tai-nan city officials are looking forward to awarding the contract of
building the city's first MRT line by the end of this year.

According to the city’s Transportation Bureau, the 8.5-kilometer line will
run through Yong-kang (永康), East District, and Ren-de (仁德), forming a
Y-shaped route with 10 elevated stations.

The line will eventually connect to extensions reaching the high-speed rail's
Tai-nan station and link with other metro lines, with future integration into
Kaohsiung’s MRT system.

The Public Construction Commission today conducted an on-site inspection and
review of the first-phase Blue Line.

According to the Executive Yuan–approved plan for the project, the total
cost is estimated at $32.7 billion NT.

Of that, $19 billion will be funded by the central government, with the
Tainan City government covering the remaining $13 billion NT.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-14 15:07:13

The New Taipei Reading Festival is set to kick off this weekend, moving
outdoors for the first time with a lively reading market party in
San-chong.

Organized by the New Taipei City Library, this year’s festival runs under
the theme “Hear the Joy of Reading,” with main events taking place on April
18th and 19th at Sunflower Plaza, and activities continuing through the end
of May.

Visitors can enjoy six hours of non-stop music, including live jazz bands,
vinyl DJ sets, swing dance sessions, and unplugged performances.

There will also be a stamp-collecting challenge across 25 booths and winners
can join a lucky draw to win iPad or Bluetooth speakers.

There are fun activities designed for children as well, with registrations
starting at noontime tomorrow.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-14 15:07:13

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has pledged to deepen ties with Lithuania, as
the Baltic nation calls for increased Taiwanese investment.

Lin met Lithuania’s new trade representative, Karolis Pili-pauskas, in
Taipei this week, saying Taiwan is ready to expand cooperation in key areas
such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, green energy, and drone
technology.

The move follows a Lithuanian proposal aimed at boosting Taiwanese
investment, building on growing ties since both sides opened representative
offices in 2021 and 2022.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-14 14:06:13

The management committee of the National Financial Stabilization Fund has
decided not to step in to support Taiwan's stock market despite disruptions
caused by ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The Ministry of Finance said there's no such need due to Taiwan's sound
economic fundamentals and the government's price-stabilization measures.

The MOF also said Taiwan's exports remained strong and many listed companies
continued to report growth in sales and earnings.

The fund, worth 500 billion NT, withdrew from the market earlier this year on
Jan. 12 after an intervention period lasting 279 days to limit volatility
caused by the Trump administration's tariff policies.

Finance officials said the benchmark Taiex had risen about 16 percent as of
Monday, indicating the fund's withdrawal did not affect the market.

In the first quarter of this year, the stabilization fund disposed of some of
the shares it bought and cleared a net profit of $8 billion NT.

(CNA-JL)

Posted on 2026-04-14 14:06:13

The DPP is calling for Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu to "put his money where
his mouth is" and act to expedite review of the 2026 central government
budget.

Spokesperson Lin Chu Yin noted that its now been over 200 days since the
budget was handed off to the legislature for examination.

She accused the KMT of intentionally delaying review of the budget due to the
meeting between the leaders of the KMT and Chinese Communist Party.

She added that the failure to examine the budget proposal does not only
affect internal government operations but also is a blow to public welfare in
the form of birth subsidies as well as disaster preparation measures.

Han and deputy speaker Jiang Qi Chen expressed their intention earlier this
month for the Legislature to review the budget as quickly as possible.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-14 14:06:13

Taiwan shares are up today, with the benchmark tai ex closing at 36296, a new
record high, after gaining 838 points.

The turnover was 971.7 billion NT

Posted on 2026-04-14 13:07:13

Former DPP lawmaker Chen Ou Po 陳歐珀 has been sentenced to 16 years in
prison on corruption charges.

Chen is accused of taking bribes and embezzling assistant fees, earning 8.7
million NT in illegal profits... according to Taipei prosecutors.

Prosecutors sought 24 years for Chen, but the Taipei District Court sentenced
him to 16 years with 6 years' deprivation of civil rights.

Prosecutors say that, from 2012 to 2023, Chen not only used his position as a
lawmaker to provie special benefits to private companies but also took
millions in fraudulent assistant fees together with his wife.

She was sentenced to 4 and half years in the same case.

The ruling may still be appealed.

Menawhile the DPP says it will discuss next week whether or not to strip Chen
of his party membership.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-14 13:07:16

Many pilgrims taking part in the Bai-sha-tun Mazu Pilgrimage, which set off
from Miao-li on Sunday, have been treated for exhaustion, dehydration, and
muscle cramps.

Da-jia (大甲) Lee’s General Hospital says 12 pilgrims in their 20s to 50s
sought treatment at its emergency room yesterday alone when the procession
reached Taichung.

Doctors said one patient was diagnosed with Influenza A, which is highly
contagious.

Doctors said some pilgrims collapsed after walking through the night or being
exposed to the sun for too long.

They remind people that drinking too little water can result in heat
exhaustion, while more severe cases may develop into rhabdomyolysis, a
serious, potentially fatal syndrome caused by rapid skeletal muscle
breakdown.

Doctors are urging the public to drink plenty of water and rest when tired,
and not to push themselves too hard.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-14 13:07:17

A senior Belizean education official is in Taiwan this week for a visit aimed
at deepening academic and educational ties.

Belize Deputy Minister of Education Dian Maheia is leading a four-person
delegation that includes University of Belize President Vincent Palacio.

The group is in Taiwan from Sunday through Wednesday.

Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi hosted a luncheon for the delegation
yesterday, calling education a key pillar of the bilateral relationship, and
expressing hope that the visit would open new avenues for cooperation and
further strengthen the partnership.

Maheia previously visited Taiwan in May 2024, accompanying Belizean Prime
Minister John Briceno to attend the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te
and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-14 11:07:14

Southern Taiwan is under heat advisories again today, with parts of Tainan
and Pingtung at risk of temperatures hitting 36 degrees Celsius or above for
extended periods.

The Central Weather Administration has issued a heat warning, with Tainan and
Pingtung under an orange alert, meaning sustained highs of 36 degrees or
above are possible throughout the day.

Kaohsiung is under a yellow alert, with temperatures also expected to reach
36 degrees.

Independent meteorologist Wu Der-rong says a strong southern air mass is
keeping skies clear and hot across the island today.

But Wu says a weak front drifting near northern Taiwan on Wednesday and
Thursday will bring slightly cooler temperatures to the north along with
occasional brief showers, while the rest of the island stays warm.

Another weak front expected on Friday and Saturday will bring intermittent
showers to the north and east, with central and southern areas staying partly
cloudy.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-14 11:07:14

The Mao-kong Gondola system will be halted for annual maintenance work
between April 20 and 24, as well as between June 8 and 28.

Taipei Metro Recreation Company, which operates the system, says the
gondola's cable has gradually elongated over time due to its own weight and
the load from cabins and passengers.

The company says in accordance with the manufacturer’s manual, a
second-stage cable shortening needs to be carried out.

The annual maintenance work also includes overhauls and testing of key
equipment such as gearbox and main motor.

Opened in July, 2007,the gondola system stretches 4 kilometers and includes
four stations: Taipei Zoo, Taipei Zoo South, Zhi-nan (指南) Temple, and
Maokong.

The system was designed to ease weekend traffic congestion in the Maokong
area, while also boosting the local tea industry and tourism.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-13 20:08:13

Taiwan stocks closed at a record high today, bucking a broader regional
downturn.

The benchmark Tai-ex rose 39 points to close at 35,457, with turnover topping
780 billion NT.

Most Asian markets fell and oil prices climbed after the U-S threatened to
blockade the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route amid tensions with
Iran.

Concerns over energy supplies weighed on sentiment earlier in the session.

However, dealers said that late-session buying helped lift the index, with
T-S-M-C leading the rebound.

Analysts say investor confidence remains strong, with hopes tensions could
ease and optimism ahead of upcoming tech sector outlooks.

Posted on 2026-04-13 20:08:13

The Taiwan People's Party (TPP) voted to expel China-born lawmaker Li
Chen-hsiu (???) from the party on Monday over repeated disciplinary
violations, which means she will also be removed from the Legislature.

In a statement, the TPP said an investigation by its Central Review Committee
found that Li had made numerous statements and actions that harmed the
party's reputation and damaged party unity.

The statement went on to say that Li showed a "disregard for public office"
by telling TPP officials on April 7 that she would only resign from her seat
in the Legislature in return for money.

The decision to expel Li from the party means that she will also lose her
seat in the Legislature and be replaced by National Cheng Kung University law
professor Hsu Chung-hsin (???), the next person on the TPP's party list.

Posted on 2026-04-13 18:37:13

Taiwan's machinery industry is seeing strong momentum, with exports in March
reaching nearly 2.97 billion U-S dollars.

That's a jump of about 28 percent from February, and marks 14 consecutive
months of growth.

The Taiwan Association of Machinery Industry says demand for semiconductor
and AI-related equipment continues to drive exports, particularly in
electronic equipment.

Despite disruptions caused by the U-S-Israel war on Iran .... including
shipping delays and higher energy costs, officials say the impact on March
exports has been limited.

Electronic equipment exports saw strong gains, rising more than 70 percent
year-on-year, helping boost overall industry performance.

However, the association warns that global uncertainty remains, and a
relatively strong Taiwan dollar compared with weaker regional currencies
could continue to weigh on export competitiveness.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-13 18:37:13

The National Development Fund says it has no plans to sell its holdings in
TSMC, even as the contract chipmaker's stock reaches record highs.

Deputy chair Kao Shien-quey (高仙桂) says after years of stock and cash
dividends, the government's cost basis for its TSMC shares is now almost
zero.

The fund currently holds around a 6.5 percent stake in the company, making it
one of the largest shareholders.

Officials say TSMC remains a core strategic asset, given its key role in the
global semiconductor supply chain.

They add that no shares have been sold in recent years, and there are no
short-term plans to do so.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-13 17:14:13

The CPC Corporation says the first of four oil tankers carrying crude oil
from the Middle East is expected to arrive in Taiwan in early May.

The shipment comes as the U-S-Iran conflict continues to disrupt transport
routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The state-run utility says it has coordinated alternative shipping routes,
with tankers now traveling via the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Officials say the remaining three tankers are scheduled to arrive at a rate
of one per month.

The shipments, totaling about 8 million barrels of crude oil, are expected to
help ease pressure on Taiwan's energy supply.

Authorities add that current oil and natural gas reserves remain above legal
safety thresholds, and operations have not been seriously affected so far.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-13 17:14:13

A group of KMT lawmakers are aiming to push for a referendum on the
introduction of caning as punishment for serious crimes including sexual
assault, child abuse, and large-scale scamming.

Hong Mong Kai (洪孟楷) and others announced today that they aim to respond to
what he called the public's hopes for safety and protection.

Hong and several opposition lawmakers said the measure aims to deter those
serious crimes.

They stressed that the proposal follows the Referendum Act by putting a major
policy direction to a public vote, so as to establish a clear, legitimate,
and democratically grounded mandate from the people.

They also claimed that most respondents in polls support introducing caning
as a punishment for crimes such as sexual assault and child abuse.

They said that, in the process of the referendum, the public can debate
"whether the human rights of criminals are more important than the well-being
of the general public."

Posted on 2026-04-13 14:07:13

Drivers on two wheels in Kaohsiung will soon begin noticing it's getting
easier to turn left.

ICRT's Southern Taiwan reporter Michael Smith has more:

Posted on 2026-04-13 14:07:13

New Taipei City says the new Sanying MRT line is targeting a June opening,
though the timeline remains up in the air.

The new line will connect with the Taipei Metro’s Ban-nan Line at Ding-pu
頂埔 and the under-construction Tao-yuan Metro Green Line, cutting travel
time between the Sanxia/Yingge area and central Taipei city by about 20
minutes.

Mayor Hou You-yi says dynamic testing has been completed, and the system has
been submitted for initial inspection.

The next step will be a final inspection by the Ministry of Transportation
and Communications before the line can open to passengers.

He said the Sanying line is expected to boost development in the
San-xia/Ying-ge (鶯歌) area to the tune of nearly 49 million NT in
investment.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-13 14:07:13

Taiwan shares are up today, with the benchmark tai ex gaining 39 points to
close the session at 35457.

The turnover was 778.7 billion NT

Posted on 2026-04-13 13:07:13

President Lai Ching-te will travel to Eswatini later this month for a state
visit marking twin milestone celebrations in the African kingdom.

The Presidential Office announced today that Lai is scheduled to visit from
April 22nd to 27th.

Officials say the president is set to hold bilateral talks with King Mswati,
sign a joint communique, and witness the signing of a customs cooperation
agreement between the two countries' foreign ministers.

The trip comes as Taiwan and Eswatini mark 58 years of diplomatic relations,
and as the kingdom holds a series of celebrations for King Mswati the Third's
40th anniversary on the throne and his 58th birthday.

The Presidential Office says the visit reflects the two countries'
partnership at a significant moment and their commitment to deepening
cooperation.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-13 13:07:13

Two of Taiwan's largest petrochemical companies say a shortage of raw
materials caused by the U.S.-Iran conflict and the blockade of the Strait of
Hormuz could accelerate a recovery for Asia's petrochemical industry

Formosa Plastics says the conflict has dealt severe blows to energy
production infrastructure across the Middle East, and even after the conflict
ends, energy and petrochemical raw material supplies will remain tight,
benefiting Asian producers as global supply contracts.

Formosa Chemical and Fiber Corporation says the supply shortage will likely
last through year end, and the company will prioritize domestic customers for
now, encouraging them to stock up while supplies are available.

The company says it will keep inventories lean in the second quarter to avoid
exposure to high raw material prices.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-13 13:07:13

TPP Chair Huang Kuo-chang says, at-large lawmaker Li Zhen Xiu has failed to
meet supporters' expectations.

This comes as the China-born lawmaker has been embroiled in controversy over
her qualifications to hold office.

Li recently said on a live broadcast that Hsinchu Mayor Gao Hong-an, formerly
of the TPP, had accepted 7 million NT from founder Ke Wen Zhe, leading Li to
be referred to the party's Central Review Committee.

Huang says that at-large lawmakers- of which all TPP lawmakers are- are meant
to respond to the hopes of those that voted for them, rather than advocating
for their own person gain.

He added that the case was ultimately up to the TPP's Central Review
Committee to decide.

Huang emphasized that it was not to do with Li's citizenship status, rather
said that her performance as a lawmaker was the issue at hand.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-13 11:07:13

Wu An-qi, a veteran anchor woman at TVBS, has confirmed that she was laid off
by the local cable company.

Wu, who's 57, said the media landscape is rapidly changing, with many demands
and approaches now differing from those of traditional media.

TVBS issued a brief announcement saying it will continue to move forward with
adjustments in a prudent and pragmatic manner.

TVBS, a leading TV news network in Taiwan, is reportedly undergoing
restructuring as traditional TV advertising revenue declines.

Layoffs have extended to senior staff and management, with speculation that
more veteran anchors could be affected in the next round.

Those already let go include some field-based and technical personnel, and
they said reporters are now being asked to use AI tools themselves, raising
concerns among staff about professionalism and quality.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-13 11:07:13

Taiwan's three major international airlines are all aggressively expanding
their fleets and route networks, with a particular focus on new openings in
North America.

From the second half of 2025 to the present, China Airlines has added Phoenix
as a new destination, EVA Air has expanded into Dallas and will soon launch a
new Washington, D.C. route, while Starlux Airlines has moved into Ontario,
California and Phoenix.

These routes will add around 20 direct flights per week between Taiwan and
the United States, a market in which Taiwanese carriers have also worked out
codeshare agreements with domestic U.S. airlines.

Analysts say the aim of those three carriers is to find new sources of
customers as they are now relying more on transit passengers.

They say Taiwan's aging population is bound to contrain future growth in the
outbound tourism market, and while a surge in travel to Japan and South Korea
pushed that number to nearly 19 million last year, it did not change the
underlying trends.

Taiwan's geographic location positions it as a natural transit hub linking
North America and Southeast Asia

(CNA)

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