ITS 結果共728筆

The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) plans to repurpose an old railway dormitory in Taipei’s central area, marking its first land development project. The TRA intends to construct a hotel and residential tower on the 1.2-hectare site, with development expected to begin in the third quarter of 2024. The estimated development scale is NT$6.23 billion, with residential tower prices potentially exceeding NT$2 million per ping. The TRA is considering different development methods, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of lengthy renovation processes for greater volume rewards versus faster construction with commercial developers but less building area. The final decision on the development method will be made by the TRA’s board of directors, while the allocation of renovations or joint construction may be outsourced or managed under a lease agreement.

Taiwan’s investment in China has reached its lowest point in a decade, making up just over 10% of the island’s total overseas direct investment, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. Recent official data from Taiwan reveals that foreign direct investments surged by 87% to reach $257 billion through November this year. However, investments in China plummeted by 34% to only $29 billion, representing a mere 12% of the total. Since 2010, Taiwanese investments in China have been steadily declining and are projected to drop below the lowest point recorded since 1999. In contrast, investments in the United States have increased ninefold to $96 billion, accounting for around 37% of the total outbound direct investment. Additionally, Taiwan’s direct investment in Germany has soared 25-fold to $39 billion, largely driven by the operations of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Sun Ming-te, Director of the Business Development and Research Center at the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER), predicts that if tensions between the United States and China persist, Taiwan’s investment in China will continue to decline.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has stated that Beijing is working to isolate Taiwan globally in response to criticisms made by Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih regarding Taiwan’s stagnant free trade agreements (FTA). During a presidential policy presentation, Hou criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for its unsatisfactory economic performance and the lack of progress in bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. MOFA emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to global economic integration and bilateral economic cooperation, but highlighted the interference from China. MOFA believes that Taiwan’s ability to participate effectively in economic integration depends on its strength and global connections, especially as countries like the U.S. and European nations reassess their economic risks with China. MOFA urges all Taiwanese, regardless of political affiliation, to unite and enhance cooperation with like-minded nations in the face of external challenges.

Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for alleged autocracy, incompetence, and widespread corruption. He singles out DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te as a complicit beneficiary of the party’s corrupt structure. Hou proposes a ＂New Taiwan Political Reform Movement＂ focused on governing with peace, dignity, fairness, integrity, and diligence. He suggests that Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je could play a key role in this movement. Hou highlights the issues faced by the Taiwanese in the past eight years, such as fraud, corruption, democratic regression, and cross-strait tensions. He criticizes Lai for distancing himself from Taiwan’s independence and condemns the DPP over allegations of sexual harassment, corruption, and the new movement faction. Hou argues that the DPP’s disarray has eroded its trustworthiness among the Taiwanese. He outlines his aim of leading a clean governance team with capacity, courage, and fiscal propriety, in contrast to the DPP’s alleged autocracy. Hou asserts his capability and strength to form a coalition government, fulfilling the aspiration for an alternate ruling party.

Kuomintang’s presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih expressed his opposition to Taiwan’s independence and support for democratic freedom, rejecting ＂one country, two systems.＂ During a debate, he criticized Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate Lai Ching-te for his vague policy toward China and questioned his remarks about sharing bubble tea with China’s president Xi Jinping. Hou emphasized that any consensus between Taiwan and China should be based on Taiwan’s Constitution and the basic cross-strait framework, clarifying that the 1992 Consensus does not imply recognition of ＂one country, two systems.＂ He emphasized that the future of Taiwan should be decided by its 23 million citizens, engaging in dialogue under the constitutional framework to reduce risks. Hou also advocated for the development of Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities to maintain peace and suggested that cross-strait exchanges should start from the civil sector before moving to official government interactions to minimize risks.

Presidential candidate Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) expresses support for President Tsai Ing-wen’s foreign policy but rejects her domestic policy agenda. During a televised debate, Ko emphasizes the need for Taiwan to establish its own position amid the U.S.-China confrontation. He cites former U.S. President Trump’s efforts to distance from China and quotes U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s stance on China. Ko, accompanied by his spouse Chen Pei-chi, appears in a black suit with a purple polka dot tie, wearing a Republic of China national emblem and KP badge.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih challenges the effectiveness of President Tsai Ing-wen’s foreign policy, questioning its impact on Taiwan-China communication, severed relations with former allies, extended military service, and increased risk of Chinese fighter jets breaching Taiwan’s airspace. The three presidential contenders, including Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je, discuss U.S.-Taiwan relations and their stance on President Tsai’s policy. Hou questions DPP’s handling of tainted politics during their time in power and highlights his support for the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). He also addresses concerns over cross-strait flight operations and employment difficulties for Chinese students in Taiwan. Hou pledges to follow the Constitution of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and maintain administrative neutrality without relying on any side.

50 Lan, a renowned tea beverage chain in Taipei, is set to raise its prices in 2024 due to increased operational and sales costs. Influenced by ingredient costs and labor shortages, the hike marks a potential trend in Taiwan’s popular hand-shake beverage market.

The Taiwan Water Corporation (TWC) plans to fill 221 entry-level job vacancies to supplement its workforce. The recruitment, open to high school or vocational school graduates of any age or gender, offers a starting salary of over NT＄30,000. TWC President Lee Tin-lai stated that the selection process aims to hire 165 technical staff and 56 operational staff across eight categories. The process includes a written test and interview, with the testing date set for May 18, 2024.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has expressed concern over comments made by Ko Wen-je, Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidate, stating that they could potentially harm Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships and lead to misunderstandings. MOFA spokesperson Liu Yung-chien emphasized that there is no conflict between solidifying relations with allied countries and developing substantial relationships with non-allied nations. The foreign ministry’s approach is to contribute to both areas simultaneously, without prioritizing based on alliance status. Liu highlighted the vital support received from allies over the years, which has helped Taiwan participate in international organizations and advance its causes. He expressed gratitude for the moral courage and vocal support shown by these allies, and stated that any possible misunderstanding sparked by Ko’s remarks is not something the people of Taiwan wish to see. In a podcast interview, Ko remarked that the number of diplomatic allies had been misperceived, suggesting that Taiwan would still fare well even if the number went down to zero. Ko emphasized the importance of substantial relationships, citing Taiwan’s positive relationships with Japan and the U.S., despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture (MOC) has announced that the eligibility for its ＂culture points＂ system will be expanded starting in 2024. The age range will be widened to include individuals aged 16 to 22, compared to the current range of 18 to 21. These points can be redeemed for cultural activities and goods and will be distributed from January 20, 2024. Each person will be able to claim the points seven times in their lifetime, starting at age 16, and the points will remain valid until December 31, 2024. The culture points can be utilized for various cultural activities such as watching local films, performances, buying books, visiting museums, and engaging in other forms of creative cultural consumption. The uptake rate for the culture points in 2023 was 80%, and it is expected to become a regular policy incorporated into the MOC’s annual budget from 2024 onwards. The number of recipients for culture points is projected to increase significantly from one million to 1.5 million in 2024.

Yunlin County Commissioner Chang Li-shan denies allegations of political corruption made by DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te. Lai criticized the KMT for its connections with the Chang family, accusing the party of having ties to illicit ＂dark money.＂ Lai also mentioned other influential families within the KMT, including the ＂Lo＂s in Xindian District, Taipei, the ＂Yen＂s in Taichung, and the ＂Fu＂s in Hualien. The DPP previously exposed allegations against Hualien County commissioner Fu Kun-chi and his wife Hsu Chen-wei, claiming that public works projects were awarded to contractors involved with their mansion. Similar controversies surrounded KMT legislator Lo Ming-tsai and the Yen family in Taichung.

Taiwan is set to increase its minimum wage for 2024, benefiting approximately 2.39 million workers. Monthly basic wages will rise from NT$26,400 to NT$27,470, a 4.05% increase, benefiting 1.79 million workers. Hourly wages will also see a boost from NT$176 to NT$183, benefiting around 600,000 workers. The changes will affect labor insurance premiums, with employers bearing an extra cost of NT$2,307, workers contributing NT$659, and the government chipping in NT$329. This marks an increase of NT$89, NT$25, and NT$13, respectively, compared to the existing system. The adjustment will also impact the categorization of labor insurance premiums and retirement monthly contributions schedules. While the wage hike will increase labor costs, it provides an important boost for workers in challenging economic times.

Jen Mei-ling, wife of Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih, clarified that a building being claimed as their own is actually a legacy from her father and not part of Hou’s property. The building has become a topic of discussion in the upcoming 2024 elections due to its high rent and proximity to Chinese Culture University. Jen stated that the property has over 50 vacant houses, which will be used to provide rent subsidies for low-to-moderate-income families and young students through donations. After the leases expire in June 2026, the plan is to convert the property into social housing for the youth and communal accommodations for rent. Initially, the building was leased and managed by Shin-Kong Life Real Estate Service Co., Ltd., with rental prices determined by Shin Kong Life Insurance. Jen announced that the vacant apartments will be subsidized for young families with an annual income of less than NT$1.33 million and a per capita monthly income below NT$56,000. Existing tenants can also apply for the subsidy, with rates of NT$6,400 for single rooms and NT$7,000 for two-person rooms per month. In her public letter, Jen addressed the accusations, highlighting Hou’s integrity during the election process and apologizing for the family issue.

Q Burger, a restaurant chain in Taipei, is making waves with its generous end-of-year bonus of up to 27.8 months for staff. In addition, the company plans to increase salaries by 23.4% in 2024, aiming to break away from the low-paying norms of the industry. Newly hired employees can expect a high basic salary of up to NT＄35,000, while reserve executives start at NT＄37,000. To address regional differences in living costs, Q Burger is also offering a substantial regional subsidy, with store employees in Taipei receiving an extra NT＄4,000 per month. In a unique move to motivate employees, the company has introduced the ＂Dream Reward Plan,＂ which grants 20% of net profits to store chiefs. Q Burger’s success is evident, with its expansion to 340 stores across Taiwan and over one million app members in 2023.

Taiwan Taxi Company has clarified that all fees charged to its drivers comply with regulations and have been reported to the responsible authorities. The company defended itself against recent allegations of unlawfully collecting excessive profits from drivers. It stated that all charges are transparent and published on its website. Among the controversial charges are fees for corporate invoices, Easycard processing, and duties. Accusers also claimed that drivers are required to install televisions in their passenger seats to play advertisements, including those featuring actress Ruby Lin, on behalf of Thermage FLX, without receiving compensation. Taiwan Taxi stated that it is undergoing a digital transformation and developing new platforms, with the vehicles’ media players serving functions beyond playing advertisements. The company reassured its drivers that the digital transformation would not increase management costs for them, emphasizing that their monthly charge has not been raised in nearly 20 years.

A Formosan black bear accidentally trapped in Taichung was rescued and transported to a medical care station in Nantou’s Jiji Township by Taiwan’s Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency. The bear’s right forelimb was caught in a trap, and it was unable to free itself. A team of forest rangers hiked uphill for an hour to reach the bear, and with the assistance of a veterinarian, they successfully released it from the trap and treated its wounds. The incident may be related to the bears moving to lower altitudes due to sudden temperature drops. The agency encourages residents to report any bear intrusions or trapped bears and offers assistance with hunting tools for those in mountain villages facing threats to their crops from wild animals.

Taiwan’s R.O.C. Naval Fleet Command continues its search for three missing servicemen who fell overboard from the Hai Hu Submarine on December 21. Despite the 72-hour rescue window passing, the Navy has ordered an additional three-day search. The families of the missing servicemen will be transported to the accident spot on December 27. The wife of one of the missing crew members has made an emotional plea for assistance in the search. Families have suggested moving the search south based on sea current directions. President Tsai Ing-wen visited the recovered crew and comforted the families, vowing to continue the search. The search and rescue effort involves approximately 900 personnel, 80 aircraft, 76 ships, and 319 vehicles, covering an operational area from south of Kaohsiung Port to Hengchun and along the coast of Xiaoliuqiu.

Taipei (TVBS News) - Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai has announced that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is making progress on schedule with the construction of its first factory in Kaohsiung. The second factory has also received the necessary license, and administrative procedures are underway. The city government has ensured that Kaohsiung has ample water and electricity supply, as well as available land. Plans are in place for a reclaimed water plant and the promotion of green electricity. The government is fully committed to assisting in the development of the industrial park, including urban planning, transportation improvements, and collaborations in talent training. Kaohsiung City Government is closely cooperating with TSMC to expedite the realization of the company’s advanced processing facilities.

Former President Chen Shui-bian expresses nostalgia and regret as the popular Eslite Xinyi Store in Taipei closes its doors on Christmas Eve 2023. Reflecting on the closure of the world’s first 24-hour bookstore, Eslite Dunnan branch, Chen emphasizes the significance of Eslite in Taipei. He recalls the store’s relocation in 1995, which sparked the concept of 24-hour service and became a landmark in Taipei tourism. Chen expresses gratitude to the Shin Kong Group for their 25-year commitment to the Eslite Dunnan store. The closure of the Eslite Xinyi Store, where Chen has many youthful memories, weighs heavily on him.

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai has hinted that the large inflatable artwork ＂Rubber Duck＂ by Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman may be exhibited once again in Kaohsiung. The preparations are currently underway, and the exact details will be announced after completion. The Rubber Duck previously attracted over 3.9 million visitors during its 32-day exhibition at the Kaohsiung Glory Pier harbor in 2013, increasing Kaohsiung’s international visibility and sparking a nationwide ＂Rubber Duck＂ fever in Taiwan. The possible re-exhibition is the result of efforts by then-Deputy Mayor Lee Yung-te and Information Bureau Director Lai Jui-lung, among others.

Jaw Shaw-kong, the vice presidential candidate for the Kuomintang (KMT) party, reaffirmed his party’s anti-communist stance in response to criticism from Lai Ching-te, the presidential candidate for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Jaw highlighted his past support for the Tiananmen Square protests and the Hong Kong democracy movement to counter Lai’s accusations. During a policy presentation event, the presidential candidates from the KMT, DPP, and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) debated their platforms, with Lai accusing the KMT of leaning towards communism. Jaw refuted this claim, emphasizing his party’s opposition to communism. He emphasized that Taiwan’s defensive strength lies in its democratic system rather than military might. If elected, Jaw and KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih would not push for reunification negotiations with China, as the current conditions do not meet the prerequisites for such discussions. Instead, Jaw expressed a focus on creating a future where both sides of the Taiwan Strait can develop independently under their respective systems.

The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) is facing concerns over potential fare hikes as it transitions to a state-owned enterprise on its 137th anniversary. The TRA has not made any fare adjustments in the past 28 years, leading to speculation about its next move. While fare reviews are mandated every two years, public sentiment has prevented changes since 1995. Experts argue that fare scales should reflect the true cost. Hochen Tan, the former Minister of Transportation and Communications, supports the TRA’s corporatization and calls for an overhaul of its financial structure and gradual fare adjustments. Tu Wei, the current TRA Director-General and future chairman of the new corporation, mentioned plans to propose a fare adjustment scheme in Q1 2024. However, a subsequent press statement clarified that these were Tu’s preliminary thoughts, leaving the question of fare adjustments unanswered for now.

DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te has proposed a comprehensive national vision, emphasizing unity, safety, and cross-strait cooperation based on mutual respect if elected. Lai aims to establish a transparent government by combating corruption, including illegal drugs and arms dealing, fraud, and embezzlement. He also plans to boost Taiwan’s economy by supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises in high-tech industries. Lai is committed to education equity, with plans to waive high school and vocational school fees and provide financial aid to private university students. He also pledges to improve long-term care facilities and services through the implementation of Long-term Care 3.0. Lai and his running mate, Hsiao Bi-khim, are dedicated to caring for the people, protecting Taiwan’s security, and advancing its development.

The Alishan Forest Railways in Taiwan has introduced the Vivid Express, a train with a transparent cockpit, in celebration of its 111th anniversary. The train, modified from an existing model, features large-pane glass windows that offer passengers a 70-degree view, allowing them to see the track ahead and the driver’s seat. The design also includes 360-degree rotating seats for a comprehensive view. The upgrades aim to create comfortable and spacious conditions for passengers while significantly improving their views. The transparent compartments will be put up for tender and are expected to be operational by April, enhancing the visual experience for travelers exploring the scenic mountainous landscapes of Alishan.