ICRT

Posted on 2026-10-15 19:07:14

Incumbent Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an and DDP mayoral candidate Puma Shen will
hold their first televised debate on October 31st.

The debate will run from noon to 2 P-M, following a second round of
negotiations between representatives of both camps today.

Broadcasters T-V-B-S and SET-N are jointly organizing the event.

At their first meeting on Monday, representatives agreed to include
cross-examination in the debate ... with today's talks finalizing the date
and time.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-15 19:07:14

A Thai influencer's TikTok videos helped Taiwan's immigration authorities
track down 20 Thai nationals who had overstayed their visas and five people
suspected of illegally employing them.

The National Immigration Agency says the influencer was working illegally at
a remote farm in Kaohsiung and posting videos of her work and daily life.

She also used the videos to recruit other Thai nationals, with one clip
attracting more than 100-thousand views.

Investigators used clues in the footage to identify the farm, despite its
secluded location, before carrying out arrests.

The agency says employers who illegally hire foreign workers face fines of up
to 750-thousand NT.

Those who do so for profit can also face a prison sentence of up to three
years, as well as fines of up to $1.2 million NT.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-10-15 19:07:14

Airfares for the upcoming New Year holiday are expected to rise by more than
15 percent ... but that isn't stopping Taiwanese travelers from booking trips
overseas.

Online travel agency ezTravel says flight bookings for the Christmas and New
Year period are up 10 percent from a year earlier, despite higher fuel
surcharges and other travel fees.

Japan remains the most popular destination, with Tokyo topping the list and
Okinawa climbing from fifth to second place.

South Korea's Busan is also gaining popularity, with bookings for both Busan
and Okinawa jumping more than 40 percent year-on-year.

EzTravel says short flights, convenient transportation and good value for
money are helping make the two coastal destinations especially attractive.

Meanwhile, government figures show Taiwanese travelers made more than 14.5
million trips overseas in the first eight months of this year ... up 15
percent from a year earlier.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-15 19:07:14

The Health Promotion Administration is reminding adults in their 30s to get
their health checkups.

The HPA says government data showed over 355-thousand young adults took
advantage of subsidized health screenings after eligibility was lowered to
age 30 last year.

And results revealed that nearly 50 percent of participants aged 30 to 39
were overweight or obese, while nearly 20 percent had elevated blood lipids.

The administration is urging the public to take advantage of the government's
incentive program, which awards 800 Health Coins to citizens who complete
subsidized adult health checkups.

And officials say an additional 800 Health Coins are available for
individuals undergoing lifetime public screenings for hepatitis B and
hepatitis C.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-10-15 18:21:14

The Ministry of National Defense says it's closely monitoring China's
Liaoning aircraft carrier group ... which has entered the western Pacific,
raising concern among countries in the region.

The ministry says it has been tracking the carrier group's movements and
accuses Beijing of using propaganda to expand its cognitive warfare efforts
... calling such actions harmful to regional stability.

It also says it's watching for the possibility of large-scale Chinese
military exercises around Taiwan, as the traditional peak season for People's
Liberation Army drills approaches in November and December.

China staged its first large-scale exercises encircling Taiwan in 2022,
following then-U-S House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island ...

... and has held similar drills every year since 2023, although none have
taken place so far this year.

The MND says Taiwan's military will remain on high alert and take appropriate
measures in response to China's activities.

China's Defense Ministry, meanwhile, says the Liaoning group's deployment is
part of routine training and is not directed at any particular country or
target.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-15 18:21:14

Taiwan's first domestically built submarine, the Hai Kun, has begun its 25th
sea trial ... with a military expert saying the vessel is entering the final
stage of testing.

The submarine headed out to sea this morning for its 19th diving test.

The expert says upcoming trials are expected to become more demanding ...
with the submarine diving deeper and spending longer periods underwater.

He also points to earlier statements by shipbuilder CSBC, which says most of
the submarine's system integration problems have been resolved following
repeated adjustments and technical assistance from equipment manufacturers.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-15 18:21:14

A new tropical storm has formed in the western Pacific ... but forecasters
say it's too early to tell whether it will affect Taiwan.

The Central Weather Administration says Tropical Storm Champi developed from
a tropical depression east of Guam at 2 this afternoon.

The storm was moving west at around 24 kilometers per hour, with maximum
sustained winds of around 65 kilometers per hour near its center.

The weather administration expects Champi to move west-northwest in the
coming days ... and will continue to monitor the storm.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-15 18:21:14

Kuo Kuang Motor Company is facing a fine of up to 90-thousand NT under road
transport regulations ...

... after cancelling at least 65 intercity bus services without warning over
the past two days.

The cancellations today and yesterday affected several routes and were blamed
on a shortage of drivers.

The Taipei Motor Vehicles Office says the company failed to apply for
permission to reduce its services ... and has been ordered to address the
problem as soon as possible.

Kuo Kuang had said it would provide further details about the cancellations
later today.

The company also cancelled some services without warning in September because
drivers took leave.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-15 17:08:13

The Health Promotion Administration says an estimated 12-thousand-600
e-cigarettes have been collected through a new disposal program in its first
month.

And about 70 percent were collected in the six special municipalities.

The agency says 432 collection points have been set up nationwide since
September 8th ... allowing people to dispose of unwanted e-cigarettes
anonymously, without providing personal information.

The program comes as the government moves to tighten Taiwan's existing ban on
e-cigarettes.

Proposed amendments to the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act would also make
possession illegal ... with fines of up to 100-thousand NT after a grace
period.

The administration says the disposal program will continue through that grace
period, and more collection sites may be added depending on demand.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-15 17:08:13

A Taipei prosecutor has resigned after failing a drug test earlier this year.

The Taipei Prosecutors Office earlier this month initiated an investigation
into the prosecutor in question, surnamed Liu.

The results of the investigation show that Liu failed the urine test back in
Feburary, with meth detected in his system after he was stopped by police in
New Taipei's Luzhou.

Liu later admitted to using drugs, calling it a lapse in judgement, and
agreed to undergo addiction treatment.

Liu has been greanted deferred prosecution, during which he is required to
complete addiction treatment, undergo drug testing, and report to his
probation officer.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-15 17:08:13

showings

Kaohsiung Mayoral Candidate Lai Rui Long will be joined by green heavyweights
at a rally this Saturday as he faces fierce competition from the KMT's Ke Zhi
En.

The event celebrating Lai's campaign office's establishment will see former
president Tsai Ing-wen, vice president Hsiao Bi-khim, mayor Chen Chi-mai, and
former mayor Xie Chang ting all in attendance.

Lai's office says today that the event will aim to establish a sense of unity
and the passage of the baton from one mayor to the next.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-15 17:08:13

The DPP's Puma Shen says, he hopes to bring nature closer to the public if
elected mayor.

He says, those measures would include planning new hiking paths and improving
the transit infrastructure to those areas, as well as making them safer, and
making it easier to access necessary equipment.

Shen made the comments in Dazhi this morning, accompanied by several outdoors
NGOs.

Experts at the event emphasize that Taipei is particularly well-suited to
stretching city life further into the mountains...

as the transit infrastructure allows residents to quickly access nature.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-15 15:27:13

Taiwan’s hot spring season is heating up.

As the weather starts to cool, it’s a great time to plan a hot spring
getaway.

The 2026–2027 Taiwan Hot Spring and Fine-Cuisine Carnival is now underway,
bringing together 19 hot spring areas across the island.

This year’s campaign combines Taiwan’s mineral springs with local food,
hiking, culture and accommodation, giving travelers plenty of reasons to turn
a soak into a full getaway.
Chef Edward Lee, known from Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars, is also joining
the campaign as one of its hot spring travel guides.

And in Guguan, there’s even more to enjoy.

The Lishan-Guguan Light Art Festival is now on, so visitors can pair a
daytime soak with nighttime light displays through November 1st.

The nationwide hot spring campaign continues through June 30th next year.

Posted on 2026-10-15 15:27:13

The Central Weather Administration says wide fluctuations in day and night
temperatures are expected to continue through early next week.

Sunny to cloudy skies expected islandwide from tomorrow through Tuesday,

From tomorrow, daytime highs could exceed 30-degrees across Taiwan, with
temperatures in the center and south ranging from between 33 and 35 degrees.

The day-night temperature difference will be most pronounced in western parts
of the island - with lows of between 23 and 25-degrees.

However, the weather administration is warning that some parts of Taiwan
could see overnight lows of below 20 degrees due to radiative cooling.

Posted on 2026-10-15 14:51:13

The Overseas Community Affairs Council has formed a special team to
investigate allegations that former Minister Hsu Chia-ching (徐佳青) misused
overseas mission resources.

Acting Minister Yen-Hui Lee (李姸慧) told lawmakers the team was established on
October 13.

The allegations concern her husband's use of an official vehicle and her
son's participation in overseas visits as a "photography officer."

Lee says the council has never had that job title, and it does not appear on
the relevant personnel lists.

The foreign ministry says vehicle records show no irregularities, but the
council must investigate its actual use.

Lee says the council's internal checks so far have found compliance with
regulations.

Hsu has denied misusing public funds.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-15 14:51:13

An assistant to a Nantou County councilor has been detained over allegations
of buying votes for a council candidate.

Prosecutors say the assistant, surnamed Shen (沈), directed three local
campaign operatives to offer voters between 500 and 1-thousand N.T. per vote.

The court approved Shen's detention last night, with restrictions on outside
contact.

The three other suspects were each released on bail of 50-thousand N.T.

Investigators searched four locations and questioned 24 voters before
arresting Shen.

Authorities seized 320-thousand N.T., including alleged bribes returned by
voters.

Prosecutors say the investigation is continuing to establish who else may
have been involved.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-15 14:51:13

Taiwan Railway announced Thursday that the first phase of the Tainan Railway
Undergrounding project will open this Saturday, retiring surface tracks
across the city.

The 8.23-kilometer underground corridor includes the new underground Tainan
Station featuring modernized platform and safety infrastructure.

To mark the occasion, Taiwan Railway will sell 2,000 limited-edition
commemorative ticket sets Saturday morning at the new Tainan Station hall.

Yongkang Station will also release 10-thousand traditional hard-cardboard
"Yong Bao An Kang" commemorative train tickets priced at $31 NT each.

And officials say special collectible rubber stamps will be available at
Tainan Station to allow railway enthusiasts to mark the historic opening.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-10-15 14:15:14

Former CPC Executive Hsu Han has been handed another 2 years and 8 months in
prison for absconding after he was sentenced to jail time in a corruption
case previously.

He was convicted of severing his ankle monitor after being released on bail
and fleeing to Taitung, where he was later arrested.

The judgement says that Hsu and a man surnamed Lin conspired to evade
authorities, along with Hsu's girlfriend.

The Qiaotou District Court believes that they hatched the plan over several
months.

They sentenced Hsu's girlfriend to 6 months behind bars, commutable to a
fine, as she was not deeply involved in the crime and confessed.

They say that Lin, however, had a big hand in planning the whole thing, and
he has a previous criminal record as well.

He was sentenced to 1 year and 4 months.

All three sentences are subject to appeal.

Hsu was sentenced to 25 years in prison by the Qiaotou District Court in
March for allegedly violating the Anti-Corruption Act.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-15 14:15:14

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan An is seeking help from the central government to
carry out a reloction of the Songshan Airport.

He says that the airport should be moved in order to build an "AI park,"
which he says it critical to Taipei's economic future.

The Ministry of Transportation and Communications previously noted that, in
Chiang's nearly 4 year tenure as Taipei mayor, it hasn't been an issue he's
discussed or brought up at all...

even though Songshan is a critical node for international, cross-strait, and
outlying island travel and would require significant planning to move.

Pegatron chairman Tong Zi Xian also yesterday said that he did not approve of
the idea to relocate the airport.

Chiang says today that he's the first sitting mayor to propose moving the
airport and said that it would be a good opportunity for the Taipei and
central governments to collaborate.

When asked how moving the airport might affect medical travel into Taipei,
Chiang, citing his next engagement, did not answer.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-15 14:15:14

Taiwan shares fell sharply today, with the benchmark tai ex losing 1655
points to close the session at 46969.

The turnover was 1.319 trillion NT

Posted on 2026-10-15 12:25:13

in former OCAC minister case

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says vehicle records show nothing
particularly suspicious amid allegations involving former Overseas Community
Affairs Council Minister Hsu Chia-ching (徐佳青).

But Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) says the unit using the
vehicle must still investigate who actually used it.

Hsu resigned following allegations that her husband used an official vehicle
and her son accompanied overseas visits.

She has denied misusing public funds.

Chen says the vehicle was mainly used by the council's culture center in
Washington.

He says official duties and private matters must be kept separate.

The ministry is also investigating allegations concerning spending on Hsu's
hotel accommodation in Geneva.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-15 12:25:13

Chunghwa Post is set to increase its single-transaction ATM cash deposit
limit starting Nov. 12-th.

The deposit limit will rise from $60-thousand to $100-thousand NT for
customers depositing cash into their own account using a debit card.

Chunghwa Post says the new policy applies to cardholders depositing cash
directly into their corresponding postal or commercial bank accounts.

The maximum limit per transaction remains restricted to 100 banknotes, while
cardless deposits remain capped at $30-thousand NT daily.

Postal authorities stated the adjustment aims to reduce transaction
processing time and boost automated banking efficiency nationwide.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-10-15 12:25:13

A Taiwan university research project has become an international partner of
NASA's lunar research institute.

National Central University says the partnership will strengthen cooperation
on research supporting future exploration of the moon and Mars.

The Taiwan Universities Lunar Investigation Project is led by astronomy
professor Wing-Huen Ip.

Its work includes monitoring flashes caused by objects hitting the moon,
studying its thin atmosphere, and exploring how lunar resources could be
used.

The university says observations from its Lulin Observatory can complement
impact monitoring in the United States and Europe.

The project also aims to develop the scientific expertise and technical
skills needed for future lunar and Mars exploration.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-14 18:32:13

Pegatron Chairman Tung Tzu-hsien (童子賢) is opposing a proposal to relocate
Taipei's Songshan Airport ...

... saying a major capital city needs a convenient airport close to its
downtown area.

Tung points to Tokyo and Seoul, where airports near the city centers have
continued to expand to meet growing transportation needs.

He also warns that replacing Songshan Airport with more buildings could make
Taipei even more crowded.

Instead, Tung suggests developing an artificial intelligence industrial park
in Danhai New Town ... connecting it with Guandu (關渡) and the Beitou-Shilin
Technology Park.

He says the area could benefit from improved transportation links and
convenient power supplies if the Second Nuclear Power Plant is restarted.

Tung believes the plan would provide a better setting for AI industry
development while preserving Songshan Airport's transportation role.

*Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an has proposed moving the airport to make room for
an AI park, housing and green space.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-14 18:32:13

The Ministry of Agriculture is backing a proposal to make farmers eligible
for disaster relief when wild animals damage their crops.

Agriculture Minister Chen Chun-chi told lawmakers that the ministry supports
amending the Agricultural Development Act to include damage caused by
wildlife.

The move comes amid growing complaints about monkeys destroying crops ...
including mangoes, peaches and persimmons.

Chen warns that unless the problem is addressed, monkeys could spread into
more areas.

Under current rules, farmers can receive disaster assistance for certain
weather-related crop losses ... but damage caused by wild animals is not
covered.

Chen says agriculture and forestry agencies are assessing the extent of the
damage while working to drive monkeys away or remove them from affected
areas.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-10-14 18:32:13

The Taiwan Creative Content Agency is partnering with South Korea's B.A.
Entertainment to help bring more Taiwanese films and television productions
to international audiences.

TAI-C-C-A says the agreement will focus on talent development, financing,
co-productions and international distribution.

B.A. Entertainment is known for "The Roundup" film franchise and "The
Gangster, the Cop, the Devil."

The agreement was signed during the Busan International Film Festival, where
Taiwan also showcased more than 230 works at an industry market.

More than 100 Taiwanese companies took part in the event, while a reception
hosted by TAI-C-C-A attracted over 500 film industry professionals and
buyers.

A Taiwanese film project titled "Uncle" also won an award at the Asian
Project Market.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-10-14 18:32:13

The Taiwan Railway Corporation is announcing the latest operational schedule
for its Pokémon 30th Anniversary theme train.

The fully wrapped EMU800 commuter train features iconic Pokémon artwork,
Pokéball floor patterns, and fully evolved character graphics.

A total of 21 regular scheduled runs will operate across major regional rail
lines from today through Oct. 22nd.

Specialized weekend charter trains will also run on designated dates
connecting Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung.

The Pokémon themed train service will continue operating across the national
rail network through Dec. 13-th.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-10-14 17:12:13

CNA is reporting that a confidential source has indicated that recent
accusations against Taipei Mayoral Candidate Puma Shen's father are
fabricated by China's Taiwan Affairs Office.

That's after Hong Kong media outlets reports that Shen's father was doing
business with China.

The source says that the original report is the result of the TAO's
manuevering, and that those outlets forwarded the reports to Taiwanese media
outlets, who did not publish the stories.

That person says that, it was for this reason that the TAO held another press
conference today to push the narrative.

They also added that the Hong Kong media outlets, when forwarding the
information to the Taiwanese ones, intentionally attempted to broaden the
reach by having them be from Hong Kong outlets rather than Chinese ones.

However, it would appear that that was not successful, as only a handful of
fringe oulets and social media accounts reposted the reports.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-14 17:12:13

Tainan City has confirmed two new imported cases of dengue fever today.

The latest cases bring Tainan's total number of imported dengue fever
infections to 13 this year.

Officials say the patients contracted the virus during recent travel to
Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines.

Local health teams initiated emergency control measures, breeding site
inspections, and vector surveys around the patients' residences.

Authorities are urging residents returning from Southeast Asia to monitor
their health and report fever symptoms promptly to local clinics.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-10-14 17:12:13

Taiwanese-American baseball player Stuart Fairchild, who hit two home runs
for Taiwan at this year's World Baseball Classic, will visit Taiwan next
month.

His agency says the trip will give him a chance to experience the enthusiasm
of Taiwanese fans in person, although dates and other details have yet to be
announced.

Fairchild, nicknamed "Feizai" (費仔) by Taiwanese fans, hit a grand slam
against the Czech Republic and a two-run homer against South Korea, helping
Taiwan win both games.

He is also scheduled to receive a Taiwan Employment Gold Card at a public
ceremony in November, allowing him greater flexibility to work and live in
Taiwan.

Fairchild made his Major League Baseball debut in 2021 and has played for
several teams, including the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-10-14 14:56:13

Transport and defense officials say any relocation of Songshan Airport needs
careful assessment to protect air services and national defense.

It comes after Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an proposed moving the airport to make
room for an A-I park, housing and green space.

Deputy Transport Minister Lin Kuo-hsien (林國顯) says Songshan handles about
half of Taiwan's domestic passenger traffic.

He says it also provides important access to medical care for residents of
offshore islands and eastern Taiwan,...

...while Defense Minister Wellington Koo says the airport supports military
operations in both peacetime and wartime, along with emergency rescue
missions.

He says those functions would need effective replacements.

Both ministries say the proposal must be assessed from a national perspective.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-14 14:56:13

An independent candidate for Hualien mayor has been released on bail in an
investigation into potential violations of the Anti-Infiltration Act.

Zhang Rong Fa 張榮法 is suspected of taking money from a foreign adversary.

He was released on bail of 60,000 N-T this morning.

Zhang previously ran for Taipei City Councilor four times with the New Party
but is now running for Hualien mayor as an independent.

Prosecutors say that his campaign has received funding from China, making a
violation of the Anti-Infiltration Act.

Meanwhile, prosecutors have also detained a candidate running for city
councilor in Hualien.

Yang Wu Kong 楊悟空, also running as an independent, is suspected of
misappropriating public funds and has been detained.

He's accused of misappropriating donations from charities for election
purposes to the tune of several million N-T.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-14 14:17:13

Two bridges in Hualien's Fuli are being rebuilt after being damaged in a 2022
earthquake.

Fuli Township Chief Jiang Dong Cheng 江東成said that the Luntian bridge is
expected to be passable by the end of the month.

Meanwhile, he said that the long neglected Mingli bridge requires new support
beams anyway...

so some of the old pillars will be blown up as part of a military exercise;
two birds, one explosion.

Those drills will take place Tuesday.

Jiang notes that the repairs were delayed due to insufficient funding.

Fuli officials note that there will be safety measures in place on Tuesday,
and they're reminding the public to stay away from the Mingli bridge area and
riverbed.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-14 14:17:13

3 people suspected of vote buying in Tainan have now been released on bail.

That's after prosecutors announced investigations into borough chief
candidates in Jiali佳里, Liujia六甲, and Rende districts.

Tainan prosecutors say that, a candidate for borough chief in Jiali's Wenxin
held a banquet in September for the Moon Festival, where they handed out red
envelopes to attendees.

An investigation uncovered that each red envelope contained 2000 NT cash.

That candidate has been released on 120,000 NT bail.

Meanwhile, the candidate in Liujia's Qijia is accused of handing out free
breakfast and packaged rice to people at a group trip, with each item valued
at about 200 NT.

They were released on bail of 80,000 NT.

And, in Rende's Shanglun, a candidate and their spouse allegedly handed out
meal and haircut vouchers worth about 400 NT to voters.

The candidate's spouse was released, while the candidate is being held on
bail of 50,000 NT.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-14 14:17:13

Taiwan shares rose today, with the benchmark tai ex gaining 284 points to
close the session at 48625.

The turnover was 928.6 billion NT

Posted on 2026-10-14 12:29:13

More than 1-thousand-300 people have officially registered as Siraya Plains
Indigenous people following Cabinet recognition of the group in July.

The recognition followed decades of efforts by the Siraya to restore their
official Indigenous status.

The Council of Indigenous Peoples says 1-thousand-336 had completed
registration by the end of September.

And more than 12-thousand had applied to join the group's membership
register, a step required before registering their Indigenous status.

Applications opened in August under a law that took effect last October to
protect Plains Indigenous peoples' identity rights.

The council has received recognition applications from nine groups, including
the Siraya.

It says several other applications are being prepared for expert review, and
it will speed up recognition and registration procedures.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-14 12:29:13

New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih is calling for a full inspection of the Sanying
MRT Line after another power problem disrupted services this morning.

A train stopped at Yingge Station around 5:30.

Trains are operating between Dingpu and Taipei University, with shuttle buses
continuing to Yingtao Fude (鶯桃福德).

Hou says initial reports suggest a contact problem with the rail supplying
power to trains.

He has ordered quick repairs and checks of the line's electrical, mechanical
and structural systems.

The disruption follows another train power failure on October 7th.

The line opened in June and began charging fares in September.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-14 12:29:13

Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih (陳駿季) says the nationwide ban on feeding
pigs food waste will take effect January first as scheduled.

He says at least three companies are expected to supply manufactured feed
made from recycled food waste by the end of this year.

That would give farmers another option alongside conventional feed and
improved formulas developed by the government's livestock researchers.

The alternatives are particularly relevant to black pig farmers, many of whom
rely on food waste.

Some farms with monitoring equipment can continue using permitted food waste
during this year's transition period.

But that permission ends December 31st.

Chen says the government is helping feed producers and pig farmers prepare
for the change.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-14 07:02:13

Premier Zhu Rong-tai says the government will continue monitoring online
rumors that a pneumonic plague outbreak has spread from Russia into China.

Zhu says the government could take steps to strengthen existing quarantine
measures if the need arises.

Those rumors are sparking concerns because so many people from Taiwan travel
to China.

The premier told lawmakers that the Ministry of Health implemented border
quarantine measures after briefing the Cabinet on the issue two weeks ago.

The premier also stressed the government is "highly, highly concerned" and
authorities will continue to monitor online information from China about the
disease to identify any "suspicious" developments.

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang has said his agency has contacted the World
Health Organization to verify whether the October 2 death of a 28-year-old
laboratory worker at Russia's Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute was due
to pneumonic plague.

However, Shih told lawmakers that no tests of pathogens or other samples have
returned positive results to date, and the cause of death remains unclear.

Posted on 2026-10-14 07:02:13

The International Monetary Fund has raised its forecast for Taiwan's G-D-P
growth for this year to 10.7-per cent.

That's up from the I-M-F's previous forecast of 5.2-per cent growth made in
April,

That forecast is the highest projected rate in the Asia-Pacific region and
comes amid the ongoing artificial intelligence boom.

It also makes Taiwan the only economy worldwide projected to post
double-digit growth this year.

Taiwan's projected growth outpaces that of neighbors in the Asia-Pacific
region, including Japan at 0.7-per cent, South Korea at 3.3-per cent,
Singapore at 5-per cent and Hong Kong at 3.8-per cent.

China's economy is expected to grow 4.5-per cent in 2026, while the United
States is forecast to grow 2.3-per cent.

The I-M-F's latest forecast remains below the 11.05-per cent growth
projection released by the government in August.

Its also forecasting that Taiwan's consumer price index will rise by
2-per-cent in 2026, up from its April estimate of 1.5-per cent, while the
island's unemployment rate is projected to remain largely unchanged at
3.4-per cent.

Posted on 2026-10-14 07:02:13

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that one Taiwan national was
injured in one of the attacks targeting Khalid International Airport in Saudi
Arabia's capital last week.

The ministry has not disclosed the victim's identity, citing privacy concerns.

However, it has said the individual remains hospitalized in Saudi Arabia and
Taiwan's representative office there has sent officials to visit them.

In response, the government has raised its travel alert for Saudi Arabia's
border regions on Sunday, with Yemen now the "red," or highest level.

It's also raised the travel alert for the rest of Saudi Arabia to the
"orange," or second-highest level and is advising Taiwan nationals to avoid
unnecessary travel to the country.

Posted on 2026-10-14 07:02:14

The Water Resources Agency says it hopes to complete a network of water
supply pipelines within two to three years so water can be shifted between
regions during shortages.

Aagency Director-General Lin Yuan-peng noted that 11 of the 16 pipelines
under the Ministry of Economic Affairs' "String of Pearls" initiative have
been completed.

Lin says completing the remaining five pipes will improve water transfers
between northern, central and southern Taiwan and the goal is to give major
industrial parks and cities access to two water sources.

Lin told participants at the Taiwan International Water Forum that goal is
aimed at reducing disruption to households and businesses when one source is
constrained.

The Water Resources Agency head also said his office has been developing
alternative water sources, including artificial lakes, subsurface river
water, reclaimed water and desalinated seawater.

Posted on 2026-10-14 07:02:14

The High Court has upheld a life sentence handed down to a man who killed his
ex-girlfriend by stabbing her multiple times in public.

The ruling upheld a Shihlin District Court verdict finding Su Shih-hsin
guilty of homicide.

The case dates back to November 2024, when Su attacked his ex-girlfriend with
a knife on the street after going to her workplace to confront her.

He was disarmed by a passerby who called the police... who arrested Su at the
scene.

His ex-girlfriend was rushed to nearby hospital, but died of her injuries
that same day.

The High Court ruling can be appealed.

Posted on 2026-10-14 07:02:14

A plant compound may help repair damaged nerve cells and improve movement
after traumatic brain injury, offering a potential new approach to treatment.

A research team from the National Tsing Hua University says its been able to
isolate an extract from a type of Monstera plant, which improved recovery
from traumatic brain injuries in mice.

Research team head Chen Lin-yi, says the study found that the extract has the
potential to help damaged nerve projections grow back and created a better
environment for nerve repair.

Chen, who is dean of the university's College of Life Sciences and Medicine,
says the findings could provide a basis for future research into other
neurological injuries and inflammatory conditions... including stroke and
"brain fog" associated with COVID-19.

Posted on 2026-10-14 07:02:14

And,

Early-bird tickets are now on sale for the Taiwan International Travel Fair
which takes place in early November.

The annual exhibition was previously called the Taipei International Travel
Fair.

Tourism authorities from South Korea, the United States, Thailand, Malaysia,
France and the Czech Republic are expected to take part, as are 12 airlines,
including first-time exhibitors Etihad Airways and Sun PhuQuoc Airways.

Early-bird tickets cost 150 N-T and are available today through six sales
channels, including Klook, KKday and ibon.

Advance tickets will go one sale from tomorrow through November 5 for 180 N-T

The 2026 Taiwan International Travel Fair will take place at the Taipei
Nangang Exhibition Center from November 6 though 9.

Posted on 2026-10-13 19:25:13

Labor groups are urging the government to raise the mandatory employer
contribution rate under Taiwan's new labor pension system.

They also criticize authorities for failing to pursue legislative reform
despite repeated calls to improve workers' retirement benefits.

The May 1 Action Alliance, a coalition of labor unions and advocacy groups,
held protests outside the Executive Yuan and Legislative Yuan in Taipei
earlier today.

It said the mandatory employer contribution rate has remained unchanged at
6-percent for 21 years, and that it should be raised to at least 12-percent
due to soaring living costs.

The Alliance's representatives also remind President Lai Ching-te of his
campaign promise to encourage higher employer contributions through tax
incentives.

Around 8 million workers had contributions made to their accounts under the
new system as of July 2026.

(CNA JL)

Posted on 2026-10-13 19:25:13

Premier Cho Jung-tai says Taiwan is closely monitoring reported pneumonic
plague concerns in Russia and neighboring regions.

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang 石崇良 confirmed that Taiwan contacted the
World Health Organization, adding that no plague pathogens have been verified
in Russian laboratory tests to date.

Health officials warned that pneumonic plague spreads through airborne
droplets and carries a mortality rate of up to 60 percent.

In response to regional outbreak rumors, the premier ordered comprehensive
health screening across Mini Three Links travel routes with mainland China.

And the Mainland Affairs Council confirmed it is coordinating with health
agencies to update Taiwanese business owners and travelers across the region.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-10-13 17:09:13

The Water Resources Agency says, Taiwan will aim to complete a network of
water supply pipelines within the next few years.

Such a network would allow water to be moved between regions during
shortages.

The WRA says, 11 of the 16 pipelines under the Ministry of Economic Affairs'
so-called "String of Pearls" initiative have been completed.

Completing the remaining 5 would improve water transfers between northern,
central, and southern Taiwan...

thus giving major industrial parks and cities access to two water sources.

The WRA adds that, to reduce reliance on reservoirs, Taiwan has been
developing alternative water sources, including artificial lakes, subsurface
river water, reclaimed water and desalinated seawater.

Authorities also note that Taiwan faces increasingly volatile weather due to
climate change, noting that Pingtung and Kaohsiung received the equivalent of
70% of Taiwan's annual rainfall in just three days back in August.

(AH-CNA)

Posted on 2026-10-13 17:09:13

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan An is attempting to fight off accusations that he has
"no new ideas..."

pointing to plans for urban renewal in Nan Jichang (南機場) as evidence.

The mayor's comments come after Tainan DPP lawmaker Lin Jun Xian 林俊憲 remarked
that Chiang lacked new ideas of and only discussed his free milk policy and
the Taipei Dome.

Chiang attended a ceremonial signing this morning for an urban renewal plan
in Nan Jichang, and said that Lin should "be sure" of what he was saying, as
the project marks a milestone for urban renewal in the city.

The mayor also cited MRT construction on the yellow line and the reduction of
working hours for parents as original ideas of his.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-13 14:15:13

The Taiwan High Court has rejected an appeal from a man convicted of killing
his ex-girlfriend.

The Shilin District Court previously sentenced the man, surnamed Su 宿, to
life imprisonment for allegedly stabbing the woman 19 times, killing her.

According to the indictment, the two had been in a realtionship many years
ago, but later got back together in 2022.

The woman, surnamed Tsai, later broke up with Su again.

Su then proceeded to harass Tsai via LINE.

Prosecutors say that Su, in 2024, went to Tsai's workplace in Neihu, where
the two talked before Su took a switchblade from his pocket and stabbed her
several times.

Su continued attacking until passerby intervened.

Tsai was sent to the hospital but efforts to resuscitate her failed and she
died.

The sentence can still be appealed.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-13 14:15:17

New Taipei City is ordering an immediate halt to a construction project in
Zhonghe District Tuesday after a road collapse trapped an engineering truck.

The truck fell into a three-meter-deep sinkhole adjacent to a private
construction site around 10 a.m, rupturing an underground water pipe.

Emergency crews removed the trapped vehicle by noon and initiated concrete
backfilling to stabilize the roadbed.

Engineers determined that construction damaged a drainage structure, leading
to prolonged water erosion and soil loss.

City officials are requiring the developer to conduct ground-penetrating
radar inspections on surrounding roads before applying for work resumption.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-10-13 14:15:17

The Freeway Bureau says highway congestion during the National Day holiday
dropped 20 percent compared to last year.

Officials say daily traffic volume averaged nearly 104 million
vehicle-kilometers, with peak southbound travel recorded on the holiday's
opening day.

Traffic accidents averaged 100 incidents per day during the holiday,
representing a 9 percent increase over last year's figures.

But authorities noted that emergency response teams cleared traffic accidents
in an average of 16 minutes to minimize traffic delays.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-10-13 14:15:17

Asian shares are mostly down today, after South Korea's Kospi fell more than
7% on a selloff of chip shares.

Japan's Nikkei 225 is also trading lower.

Taiwan shares are down today as well, with the benchmark tai ex losing 960
points to close the session at 48341.

The turnover was 1.125 trillion NT

Posted on 2026-10-13 13:07:13

The Haikun Submarine prototype has undergone its 24th sea test.

That's as experts are advising the public to be patient, as safety can't be
rushed.

Military expert Ji Dong Yun notes that the Haikun is the first submarine that
has been planned and built in-country.

Therefore, he says, comparing the Haikun's progress to that of other
submarine models in Korea or Australia, for example, is like comparing apples
and oranges.

Ji also notes that Taiwan faces unique challenges in procuring materials
needed for the Haikun, intensifying the entire process.

He adds that the Haikun will continue to readjusted ahead of its handoff to
the military.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-13 13:07:14

The Ministry of the Environment is warning of poor air quality in central and
southern Taiwan as well as in Kinmen starting today.

They say, that's due to northeasterly winds bringing pollutants from abroad.

Officials say that, as of this morning, 11 monitoring stations across the
country were sitting at "orange alert" levels, most of which were located in
central Taiwan...

particulary in Taichung, Yunlin, and Changhua.

An "orange alert" indicates unhealthy air quality for sensitive groups.

Meanwhile the north and much of the south can expect "yellow alert" air
quality levels at this time...

indicating moderate air quality.

(AH)

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

In news from and about Taiwan this morning,

Defense Minister Wellington Koo says the military is closely monitoring
China's military exercises, but they are taking place off the coast of China
rather than near Taiwan.

However, Koo is stressing that the Ministry of National Defense is preparing
for various scenarios.

The statement comes after China's Maritime Safety Administration issued
no-sail notices late last week for five marine areas ahead of military
exercises scheduled for this week.

The five no-sail areas listed are in the Yellow Sea, the East China the Sea,
South China Sea and Bohai Sea, where China's military is carrying out
live-fire drills.

According to Koo, the military has assessed that the exercises will be held
near China's coastline and will involve only artillery units.

Beijing has not explicitly said whether or not the exercises are in response
to President Lai Ching-te's National Day address on Saturday, but has said
the drills are a deterrent to any move by Taiwan towards "independence."

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

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang is defending the government's drug
harm-reduction program against mounting political criticism, stressing that
it does not involve supplying illicit drugs in communities.

Shih is also calling for the privacy of people seeking addiction treatment to
be protected.

The calls come came as drug policy has become a flashpoint in the Taipei
mayoral race.

Methadone maintenance treatment and clean-needle distribution are at the
center of dispute between incumbent K-M-T Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an and the
D-P-P's mayoral candidate Puma Shen.

Speaking at a hearing of the Legislative Social Welfare and Environmental
Hygiene Committee, Shih said recent political rhetoric has distorted public
understanding of the drug harm-reduction program.

Shih stressed that the Ministry of Health does not support legalizing
cannabis and has no plans to adopt a model involving the direct provision of
illicit drugs in communities.

He also insisted that the health ministry's drug harm-reduction policy is
evidence-based and focuses on needle-exchange programs and methadone
treatment.

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

Tai-Power Chairman Tseng Wen-sheng says he believes the island's electricity
industry should be brought into technology-sector decision-making as soon as
possible.

According to Tseng, energy will become increasingly important to the tech
industry because computing power depends on electricity, while electricity
will also become a critical part of the supply chains of the semiconductor
and technology industries.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the 2026 Net-Zero Taiwan and Energy Taiwan
exhibitions, Tseng said Tai-Power needs to play a greater role in industrial
decision-making rather than simply providing electricity, as industrial power
supply and demand patterns evolve.

Tseng also said parts of Tai-Power's operations should take a more
industry-oriented approach, enabling the company to better understand the
technology sector's operating models, business challenges, financial
arrangements and supply chain partnerships.

He also stressed that as businesses' demand for renewable energy grows,
electricity suppliers and consumers should jointly discuss energy
procurement, the acquisition of renewable energy certificates and energy
storage.

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

In local election news

Kaohsiung's two major-party mayoral candidates have been outlining their
plans for developing the city's artificial intelligence industry.

The proposals range from an A-I industry cluster and closer industry-academia
ties to wider access to A-I education.

D-P-P candidate Lai Jui-lung says Kaohsiung was well positioned to become an
A-I industry hub due to its available land, power supply, talent pool and
established industrial ecosystem, and the Asia New Bay Area had the potential
to become such a hub.

Lai says former site of the now relocated 205th Arsenal military production
site, spans about 58 hectares and could provide additional space for
industrial development.

And K-M-T Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Ko Chih-en is proposing developing A-I
parks and the drone industry, including flight control and geospatial
information applications.

Ko's campaign office says she is also proposing expanding A-I education
through school programs, teacher training and digital learning opportunities
for workers, small and medium-sized businesses, and older adults, to make the
technology more accessible in everyday life.

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

Meanwhile,

Twelve candidates in the upcoming local government elections have signed
pledges to promote sustainable and resilient policies if elected.

The names of the 12 candidates who have signed the pledges were announced at
a press conference held by civic groups.

Those civic groups include the Green Citizens' Action Alliance and the Taiwan
Climate Action Network.

The groups invited candidates running for mayor in Taiwan's six special
municipalities to sign a pledge on 18 policies in the areas of renewable
energy, disaster preparedness and resilience, heat adaptation, flood
management, and sustainable transportation.

The 12 candidates who have signed the full pledge include K-M-T Taipei Mayor
Chiang Wan-an and D-P-P Taipei mayoral candidate Puma Shen.

Tainan mayoral candidate Hsieh Lung-chieh has signed it in part, while New
Taipei candidate Lee Shu-chuan and Taichung candidate Johnny Chiang have
declined to sign.

Posted on 2026-10-13 08:13:14

And finally in last night's Chinese Professional Baseball League play-offs
....

.. the C-T-B-C Brothers booked their spot in the Taiwan Series after beating
the Uni-President Lions 8-2 in the deciding Game 4 at the Intercontinental
Stadium in Taichung.

A second-half season champions, the Brothers entered the play-offs with a one
game advantage.

It's the third consecutive year the Brothers have made the finals and they
will now meet the first half season champion Wei Chuan Dragons.

The best-of-seven Taiwan Series will begin on October 17 at the Taipei Dome,
where the Dragons will host Games 1 and 2 and, if necessary, Games 5 through
7.

Games 3 and 4 are scheduled for October 20 and 21, and will also be played at
Taipei Dome.

The Brothers last won the Taiwan Series in 2024, while the Dragons most
recent C-P-B-L title was in 2023.

Posted on 2026-10-13 06:54:13

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is slamming China's decision to sanction two
ministers from Taiwan's diplomatic allies.

This, after China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described Belize's Foreign
Minister Francis Fonseca and Paraguay's Minister of Information Gustavo
Villate as "anti-China politicians" and barred them from entering China.

Beijing called the two officials "pawns" who have smeared Beijing... but did
not say why the two ministers were singled out.

Taipei's foreign ministry describes Beijing's sanctions as "preposterous" and
a "blatant interference in other countries' sovereignty and diplomacy."

It adds action is evidence of China's "futile attempt to deploy political
intimidation and transnational repression to coerce other countries into
submission to its political agenda."

The move is seen as symbolic, since ministers from Taiwan's diplomatic
allies generally don't travel to China

Posted on 2026-10-13 06:54:13

The Ministry of National Defense is proposing scrapping the maximum length of
service for the Air Force.

The Air Force is now experiencing a shortage of experienced pilots, since
many leave the military to fly for civilian airlines.

The ministry has cited defense needs in proposing to remove the cap, which it
says will apply to selected experienced pilots.

If the Cabinet approves the proposal and it takes effect, the defense
ministry aims to retain 74 pilots ranked lieutenant colonel or colonel in
service longer.

Under the law, pilots holding the rank of lieutenant colonel can currently
serve a maximum of 26 years and those ranked colonel a maximum of 30 years.

That means pilots at these ranks must leave military service at around 48 and
52 years of age, respectively.

Defense officials say as a result of that, many pilots leave the Air Force
before reaching their service limits so they can join civilian airlines
sooner.

Airline pilots can work until 65 and earn significantly higher salaries.

The defense ministry sent proposal to the Cabinet last month and it is still
awaiting approval.

Posted on 2026-10-13 06:54:13

The Taoyuan District Prosecutors' Office has detained two executives of drone
supplier Jiin Ming Industry over allegations the company used banned
China-made chips and camera lenses in drones supplied under recent military
contracts.

Officials raided Jiin Ming offices as well as those of its subsidiaries and
its suppliers last week.

The raids followed a report that the company had breached its procurement
contracts by putting the prohibited components into drones delivered to the
military

Prosecutors say Jiin Ming Vice Chairman and President Chien Hao-ting,
business manager Chen Yang-cheng and seven other people connected to the case
have been questioned.

Chien and Chen are believed to have violated the National Security Act by
knowingly supplying Chinese-made products under military procurement
contracts.

The two are also suspected of submitting falsified business records and of
aggravated fraud committed by three or more people under the Criminal Code.

The other suspects have all been released without bail.

Posted on 2026-10-13 06:54:13

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has resumed accepting visa applications from
Moroccan nationals.

The move ends a months-long suspension imposed after Morocco abruptly halted
visa applications from Taiwan nationals earlier in the summer.

The ministry says it made the decision after receiving official confirmation
that Morocco had resumed accepting visa applications from Taiwan nationals on
September 21.

MOFA has said it welcomes the Moroccan government's decision, ending a
dispute that began in July when the Moroccan Embassy in Japan suspended its
review of Visa Confirmation Letter applications from Taiwanese without saying
why.

In response, the foreign minister announced it would suspend processing visa
applications from Moroccan nationals effective July 31, except for applicants
involved in special projects approved by the Taiwan government.

Travel agencies here in Taiwan most frequently submit visa applications for
travelers heading to the North African country to the Moroccan Embassy in
Japan.

Posted on 2026-10-13 06:54:13

The Taipei District Prosecutors' Office says a man who admitted to reposting
a defamatory fake image of D-P-P Taipei mayoral candidate Puma Shen has been
granted deferred prosecution for two years.

Prosecutors say the ruling was made on the condition he regularly attends
legal education sessions.

The statement comes after the man reposted a fake photo on his Facebook page,
purporting to show Shen with a nude woman near a table littered with drug
paraphernalia on June 7.

Prosecutors says the fake image of Shen was first posted earlier in June on
an X account by a user named "Hsueh Ting-ting Returns," whose IP address had
been traced to China.

Shen filed a complaint with Ministry of Justice, saying that the fake photo
was defamatory because it falsely implied that he frequented disreputable
places, used drugs, and engaged in sexual activity with unidentified women.

Posted on 2026-10-13 06:54:13

Police in Taoyuan have arrested a 33-year-old man suspected of stabbing his
aunt to death in New Taipei's Xinzhuang District.

Police in New Taipei say they received a call Sunday evening about the
stabbing and found a 59-year-old woman dead in her kitchen after arriving a
the scene.

Authorities say the woman had suffered multiple stab wounds.

The victim's husband, found her when he returned home from work, told police
that their nephew had recently moved in with them and had quarreled with his
wife earlier that same day.

A preliminary investigation found the man to be unemployed and frequently
asked for money to buy alcohol and tobacco.

Posted on 2026-10-13 06:54:13

Lala Mountain in Taoyuan has been designated an Urban Night Sky Place by
DarkSky International.

This makes Lala Mountain has become the first site in Taiwan and only the
third in Asia to receive the recognition.

The Taoyuan City Government's Department of Tourism said it was notified of
the designation by the US-based nonprofit, which will formally announce it
tomorrow.

The nonprofit works to protect the nighttime environment.

An Urban Night Sky Place is a municipal park, open space, stargazing site or
similar property in or near a heavily urbanized area that promotes an
authentic nighttime experience despite significant artificial light.

The designation recognizes sites that educate the public about responsible
outdoor lighting that maintains public safety while reducing harm to the
nighttime environment.

DarkSky International currently lists 19 Urban Night Sky Places worldwide.

The other two in Asia are Minami-Rokuroshi in Japan's Fukui Prefecture and
Zhangwu Town in China's Zhejiang Province.

Posted on 2026-10-12 17:07:13

5 media platforms are inviting Taipei mayoral candidates Puma Shen and Chiang
Wan An to participate in a televised debate.

Those platforms include the Liberty Times newspaper and China Television
Company, among others.

A statement from the 5 platforms emphasized that Taipei residents have a
right to see both candidates' policy proposals and their ideas for how to
make these proposals happen.

The announcement added that the debate, should candidates accept the
invitation, would maintain neutrality and transparency...

emphasizing a return to "rational policy exchange" rather than virtue
signaling and political sloganeering.

The invitation comes as Shen and Chiang have already in principle agreed to a
debate hosted by TVBS and S-E-T News but have not nailed down dates or
format.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-12 17:07:13

Police have arrested a 33-year old man suspected of killing his aunt in New
Taipei's Xinzhuang District.

He was caught in Taoyuan District around noon today after officers used
surveillance footage to track his movements.

Police say the 59-year old woman was found dead with multiple knife wounds in
her kitchen on Yong'an Street.

Her husband discovered her body after returning from work yesterday evening
and called police.

Investigators say her nephew lived with her, had previously argued with her,
and could not be contacted after the incident.

Police are investigating the circumstances of her death.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-12 17:07:13

China has sanctioned Paraguay’s communications minister and Belize’s foreign
minister over ties with Taiwan.

China's Foreign Ministry said the sanctions against the two officials serve
to safeguard China’s interests.

Paraguay and Belize are 12 diplomatic allies of Taiwan.

The sanctions are mostly symbolic, as officials from countries that have ties
with Taiwan do not generally travel to China.

Countries including Nauru, Honduras and Nicaragua have switched allegiances
from Taiwan to Beijing in recent years.

Posted on 2026-10-12 17:07:13

A red panda from Taipei Zoo is settling well into his new home in Singapore.

Chi-Chi (奇奇), also known as Yaffa, moved to Singapore Zoo in June as part of
an international conservation program.

A keeper tells CNA he is eating and sleeping well, exploring his surroundings
and staying active.

Now on public display, he is also drawing visitors who have followed news of
his move.

Taipei Zoo says transfers between zoos help maintain genetic diversity and
reduce the risk of inbreeding among endangered red pandas.

The two zoos also hope to support healthy breeding through cooperation in
animal care and conservation research.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-12 16:38:13

The Air Force says some electronic warfare hardware is installed on Taiwan's
first two new F-16V Block 70 fighters.

But software development and system integration are still underway.

The jets arrived in Zhi-hang (志航) Air Base in eastern Taiwan from Hawaii, on
October 2nd, roughly one month later than initially expected.

Air Force Chief of Staff Lee Ching-jan (李慶然) says work on their Viper Shield
system is proceeding according to plan.

Defense Minister Wellington Koo says integration must meet the timetable set
for after delivery.

Koo hopes more fighters will arrive this month after passing acceptance
inspections.

But he says completing all 66 deliveries next year still requires
coordination with Washington.

The United States approved the sale of those fighter jets and related
equipment to Taiwan in 2019, and delivery was supposed to begin in 2023 and
be completed by 2026.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-10-12 14:20:13

Defense Minister Wellington Ku says, the Coast Guard is the primary law
enforcement unit for patroling Taiwan's territorial waters, while the Navy
can provide assistance.

He added that the Coast Guard should drive away Chinese maritime militia or
coast guard vessels if they cross into restricted waters.

The Defense Minister made the remarks when answering KMT lawmaker Huang
Jian-bin's question regarding a Reuters report that a Chinese militia vessel
was spotted in waters east of Taiwan in August.

It marked the first known appearance of such a vessel in the area.

Ku said Taiwan monitors Chinese militia vessels using databases maintained by
the Coast Guard and the military, along with joint intelligence, surveillance
and reconnaissance operations.

He said these resources allow authorities to closely track the movements of
those ships.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-10-12 14:20:13

Legislative Speaker Han Guo-yu has reiterated that no matter how hard the
ruling and opposition parties clash, they should follow the rules, compromise
and uphold moral standards.

Stumping for a TPP candidate in Keelung yesterday, Han said he often tells
foreign dignitaries that Taiwan has a mature and successful democracy...

but said that privately he feels uneasy due to the Cabinet's refusal to
countersign legislation and last year's recall campaign.

He described the situation as "anti-democratic," claiming that even
professors of constitutioanl law can no longer properly teach the subject.

The comments echoed his comments at Saturday's National Day ceremony, when he
called on President Lai Ching-te to resolve the current standoff between the
legislative and executive branches.

Han also said that people absolutely cannot allow the world to see Taiwan's
democracy as "a democracy in name, but a dictatorship in reality."

Meanwhile the Presidential office and DPP legislative caucus leaders called
Han's speech "embarrasing and inappropriate", saying Han fell short of the
standards expected of a Speaker.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-10-12 14:20:13

Taiwan shares closed slightly down today, with the benchmark tai ex losing 11
points to close the sessiont at 49301

The turnover was 843.9 billion NT

Posted on 2026-10-12 13:06:13

12 candidates in this year's local elections have signed on to a climate
resilience, energy and transportation policy pledge.

The pledge was put forward by civic groups including the Green Citizens'
Action Alliance and the Taiwan Climate Action Network, and asks candidates to
agree to 5 major policy directions, including adapting to extreme heat and
flood control.

Among the signees were both candidates for Taipei mayor, while KMT candidates
Li Si Chuan and Jiang Qi Chen in New Taipei and Taichung both refused to sign
on.

Advocates say that leaders of the six major municipalities should take the
initiative to assess how well-prepared schools and other public places are
for climate change...

adding that local governments should also integrate solar power and energy
storage into disaster preparedness centers in order to make them
self-sufficient.

They're calling for local leaders to incorporate the needs of vulnerable
groups into disaster prevention plans and drills as well.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-12 13:06:13

The Maritime Port Bureau says, fresh drills launched by China will not have
too much of an impact on shipping in waters around Taiwan.

China announced last week that it would be carrying out drills in the South
China, Yellow, East China, and Bohai Seas, with the drills kicking off today.

They're expected to continue through the end of the week.

The Maritime Port Bureau is emphasizing that the areas where China is
carrying out the drills are outside Taiwan's search and rescue area of
responsibility.

Although authorities say that shipping is running normally right now, the MPB
will continue to monitor Chinese military activity in the region.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-10-12 13:06:13

Taiwan's manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry said that the U.S.
International Trade Commission has launched an investigation into it under
Section 337 of the Tariff Act.

Hon Hai said the process began on Friday, and that it will actively respond
to the investigation through established legal procedures.

The tech company stressed that it respects intellectual property rights and
vowed to protect the interests of investors.

It also said that its operations remain unaffected.

Hon Hai is among 20 businesses, including German, US, and Chinese companies,
named in the U.S. trade investigations into alleged patent infringement.

Taiwan's Delta Electronics and Quanta Computer are on the list as well.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-10-12 08:16:13

In news from and about Taiwan this morning,

The U-S International Trade Commission has launched a Section 337
investigation naming several Taiwan tech companies as respondents.

Those companies include Hon Hai, Delta Electronics and Quanta Computer.

According to the U-S International Trade Commission, the investigation under
the U-S Tariff Act of 1930 stems from a complaint filed by
Massachusetts-based power technology company Vicor Corp.

It focuses on some vertical power delivery systems, related components and
computing devices incorporating such systems.

The commission says the investigation covers 20 companies from Taiwan, China,
Germany and the U-S.

Here in Taiwan, the Ministry of Economic Affairs says the probe involves
power delivery technology used in artificial intelligence servers and it's
ready to assist the effected companies if necessary

Posted on 2026-10-12 08:16:13

And finally

The Uni-President Lions are on the cusp of booking a spot in the Chinese
Professional Baseball League Taiwan Series -- after beating the C-T-B-C
Brothers 4-2 in Game 3 of the play-offs at the Intercontinental Stadium in
Taichung to take a 2-1 lead.

Game 4 is this evening also at the Intercontinental Stadium in Taichung.

And that game begins at 6:30.

The winner of the playoff series will meet the first half season champion Wei
Chuan Dragons in the Taiwan Series.

The best-of-seven Taiwan Series will begin on October 17 at the Taipei Dome.

Posted on 2026-10-12 07:00:14

D-P-P Taipei mayoral candidate Puma Shen is reiterating his call for four
debates, saying a single event would not allow enough time for detailed
discussions of individual policy issues.

He made the call as he held his first campaign motorcade in the capital.

Shen's motorcade event started in Datong District and drew thousands of
supporters, some of whom followed the procession on scooters, carrying
campaign banners.

This comes as incumbent K-M-T Mayor Chiang Wan-an called on Shen's camp to
discuss arrangements for a televised election debate or debates.

Chiang says the focus should be on actually holding debates, rather than
turning them into a campaign talking point... both camps have already agreed
in principle to T-V-B-S holding a televised debate or debates and signed
consent forms.

The broadcaster is scheduled to meet representatives of both parties later
today to discuss details of the possible televised election debates.

Posted on 2026-10-12 07:00:14

Eswatini's visiting King Mswati III thanked Taiwan for its donation of
military helicopters to the African kingdom as he visited an aviation
training center in Tainan.

King Mswati was accompanied by President Lai Ching-te during his tour of the
Army Aviation and Special Forces Command's Flight Training Command.

King Mswati and his wife were shown military helicopters on display in a
hangar during the visit... both also tried their hand at operating a military
helicopter flight simulator, while the king sat in the cockpit of a Black
Hawk helicopter.

Lai said Taiwan donated two retired UH-1H helicopters to Eswatini in 2020 and
between 2019 and 2020, the Tainan-based command also trained 11 Eswatini
pilots and maintenance personnel to operate and maintain the helicopters.

Lai also expressed his gratitude to the personnel involved in the mission for
their contributions to diplomatic ties between the two countries.

King Mswati arrived in Taiwan last Friday, primarily to attend the National
Day celebrations.

It's his 20th visit to Taiwan since he was crowned king in 1986.

Posted on 2026-10-12 07:00:14

Social and medical support groups have come out in support of drug
harm-reduction policies... amid a political debate fueled largely by Taipei's
mayoral candidates.

The Taiwan Association of Clinical Psychology and the Association of Taiwan
Clinical Psychologists expressed harm-reduction measures, including
clean-needle programs and methadone maintenance treatments.

The call comes amid similar statements issued by the Taiwan Medical
Association and the Taiwanese Society of Psychiatry on October 5, and the
Taiwan Society for Forensic Clinical Psychology on Saturday.

The Taiwan Union of Nurses Association also emphasised that harm-reduction
policies do not encourage drug use and is urging politicians to respect
professional expertise and avoid sending unclear messages that could deepen
social divisions.

The nursing association further called on the government to strengthen drug
prevention and addiction treatment systems, as it ensures that people with
addiction are treated with dignity.

Posted on 2026-10-12 07:00:14

Firefighters have been working to extinguish a fire at a Miaoli trash dump.

The Miaoli County Fire Bureau said the fire broke out at a trash dump in
Yuanli Township - burning an area of about 4,000 square meters.

No injuries have been been reported so far.

A total of 13 fire trucks and 29 firefighters from Yuanli and neighboring
townships were dispatched after the fire was reported.

The fire bureau says two drones, a disaster response robot and three
excavators were at the scene to assist with firefighting efforts.

Yuanli Township chief Liu Yu-yu says she notified the county's Environmental
Protection Bureau to monitor air quality.

Posted on 2026-10-12 07:00:14

And,

The Philippines has opened its largest overseas Filipino worker service
center in Taipei.

It's located in the same building as the Manila Economic and Cultural Office
in Taipei's Neihu District.

The O-F-W Global Center-Taipei is the third such facility worldwide,
following centers in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.

It is also the largest to date.

The country's Overseas Workers Welfare Administration called the Taipei
center a one-stop hub where Filipino migrant workers in Taiwan can access
government services, welfare assistance and training without returning to the
Philippines.

The facility includes training spaces, a cafe, a karaoke room and areas for
government services.

Planned activities include Mandarin classes, financial literacy programs,
computer and artificial intelligence training, and courses on content
creation and entrepreneurship.

Manila Economic and Cultural Office Chairperson Corazon Avecilla-Padiernos
says the new center reflects the Philippine government's commitment to
supporting its citizens overseas.

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