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The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) demanded an apology from Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) chairman Ko Wen-je for his corruption allegations against the government in producing face masks. The MOEA refuted Ko’s claims, stating the lack of evidence and emphasizing the need for public servants to ensure mask supply during the pandemic. Ko made the accusations during a campaign event, implicating the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in corruption cases involving masks, the Medigen COVID-19 vaccine, and egg imports. The MOEA referred to a previous incident where former Minister of the Interior Lee Hong-yuan apologized for baseless accusations and urged Ko to do the same.

Taiwan’s major contract manufacturer, Quanta Computer, has announced that it will adjust its employee salary structure in response to inflation and talent retention. Starting in December, the salary adjustments will be based on job grades, with employees in the 8th job grade receiving an increase of NT＄3,000. According to the Taiwan Stock Exchange’s corporate employee salary information from June, the average annual salary for non-supervisory full-time employees at Quanta in 2022 reached NT＄1.501 million. This marks the third consecutive year that Quanta has raised salaries, with structural pay adjustments also made in 2021 and 2022. The company has clarified that the current restructuring will not affect the annual raises based on performance and division alignment. Additionally, Quanta plans to implement a flexible working hours system, reinstating the flexible work hour system adopted during the pandemic period at its headquarters in Taiwan. This will allow employees to start their day between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and leave between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Taiwan’s Minister of National Defense, Chiu Kuo-cheng, stated that the Ministry will not interfere with general aviation enthusiasts taking photographs, but any behavior involving scaling walls to capture military installations will be considered reconnaissance activities. This announcement was made during a review of the draft ＂Military Base Security Maintenance Regulations＂ bill at the Legislative Yuan’s Foreign and National Defense Committee. According to the draft bill, unauthorized reconnaissance activities directed at military camp areas, such as measurement, filming, photography, depiction, or description, can result in fines ranging from NT＄30,000 to NT＄150,000 if they compromise national security. The committee discussed potential issues related to dash cameras unintentionally filming the area or residents of high-rise buildings next to a base. Deputy Chief of Combat Planning, Chen Wen-Hsing, clarified that the draft bill mainly targets harmful reconnaissance activities, while general photography activities remain unaffected. Minister Chiu emphasized that unauthorized photography in restricted areas is considered reconnaissance. Kuomintang legislator Chen I-hsin raised concerns about possible conflicts between existing ＂Vital Area Regulations＂ and the proposed new law, suggesting the incorporation of maintaining military base security into existing regulations as a specific chapter.

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Zhu Fenglian, has called on the people of Taiwan and China to support the 1992 Consensus and oppose Taiwanese independence in order to restore peaceful development in cross-Strait relations. This statement was made during a regular press conference on Wednesday morning. Zhu also mentioned the potential Blue-White Coalition in the upcoming Taiwanese presidential election, emphasizing that peace, development, and cooperation represent the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan. Zhu further stated that mainland residents will only be able to travel to Taiwan when cross-Strait relations are on the correct track of peaceful development. This communication reflects China’s consistent stance on Taiwan, reaffirming its commitment to the 1992 Consensus and strong opposition to Taiwan’s independence. It is evident that China is closely monitoring Taiwan’s political dynamics in light of the upcoming election.

The Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) in Taiwan has announced that starting in January next year, food service businesses will only receive rewards up to NT $14 per serving if they agree to use organic or traceable agricultural products for 12 varieties of fast-growing vegetables, including bok choy and water spinach. However, the catering industry has expressed concerns about potential price increases during typhoon seasons or cold weather, which could make certified and organic products even more expensive. In response, MOA officials have confirmed that subsidies will be offered to mitigate the impact of vegetable price hikes, with school lunch allowances per serving potentially increasing from NT $3.5 to NT$10, and remote schools eligible for an allowance of up to NT $14 per serving. Chen Mig-hsin, Director of Taiwan’s Food Catering Association, has called for the approval of integrating QR-code usage for verified products during natural disasters, emphasizing the need for additional reward systems to better prepare domestic food suppliers for weather disturbances. Agriculture and Food Agency (AFA) Deputy Director Su Mao-hsiang has acknowledged the efforts made by catering businesses to support the MOA’s goals of promoting healthy and affordable school lunches. Currently, over half of the 3,800 tons of vegetables purchased weekly are organic and traceable products, and Su anticipates that the expanded purchase of healthy agricultural foods will further incentivize farmers to produce them.

Taiwan’s Minister of Labor, Hsu Ming-chun, has pledged to propose a plan within the next three months to support the 330,000 women in Taiwan who have left the workforce to care for their families. During a legislative interpellation, a Democratic Progressive Party legislator pointed out the government’s oversight of this potential source of manpower, considering the country’s need for more workers. Hsu acknowledged the relatively high number of women who have quit their jobs due to family care duties and stated that the Ministry of Labor is actively promoting measures to help women balance their work and family responsibilities. Suggestions were made to make the parental leave system more flexible and introduce family care leave. Hsu admitted that finding a solution is challenging but expressed her eagerness to address the issue. The Ministry of Labor has commissioned studies to inform their improvement plan, which will be developed in the next three months.

The story discusses the statements made by John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council, regarding the United States’ stance on Taiwan’s independence and the desire to avoid conflict over the island. Kirby emphasized that the U.S. does not support Taiwan’s independence and does not want to see a unilateral change in Taiwan’s status quo, particularly through the use of force. He expressed hope that President Joe Biden would continue to convey to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the U.S. will adhere to the Taiwan Relations Act and assist Taiwan in maintaining its self-defense capabilities. The article also mentions that Biden and Xi held bilateral talks, their second face-to-face meeting since November, and that Biden would discuss concerns about China’s non-interference in Taiwanese elections. It remains unclear whether Biden will meet with Taiwanese APEC representative Morris Chang at the summit.

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) minister has stated that multiple channels have been used to raise awareness of the ＂Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China.＂ The system was implemented in January 2023 to improve emergency assistance services for travelers. However, out of over one million Taiwanese nationals who visited China from January to September, only around 2,000 registered with the system, resulting in a usage rate of just 0.19%. MAC Minister Chiu Tai-san acknowledged the low uptake and stated that efforts have been made to promote the system, including engaging travel agencies. Legislator Chuang Jui-hsiung highlighted that in August alone, over 200,000 people traveled from Taiwan to China, but only 554 registrations were made. Minister Chiu explained that registration is voluntary, and if citizens do not anticipate encountering problems in mainland China, it is challenging for the ministry to enforce it. In response to calls for increased promotion, Chiu promised that MAC colleagues would intensify efforts to raise awareness about the registration system.

Taiwan’s most common cancer has shifted from colorectal cancer to lung cancer, according to the Health Promotion Administration (HPA). This change was observed in 2021, ending a 15-year record held by colorectal cancer. The HPA’s report listed the top 10 cancers, with lung and colorectal cancers being the most common. Other cancers on the list include breast, liver, oral, prostate, thyroid, stomach, skin, and pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer notably made the list for the first time. Dr. Chen Jin-shing, chief of surgery at National Taiwan University Hospital, explained that the shift is not surprising as lung cancer has been the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for the past decade. The HPA’s Cancer Prevention and Control Division director, Lin Li-ju, highlighted an increase in early lung cancer detection following the introduction of low dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening in 2022. In 2021, there were 121,762 new cases of cancer registered in Taiwan, marking the first decline in new patient numbers. On average, a person was diagnosed with cancer every 4 minutes and 19 seconds. HPA Director-General Wu Chao-chun urged individuals to reduce their risk factors and recommended regular screenings for early detection and treatment, especially for those at high risk.

Representative Hsiao Bi-khim missed an overseas community event in the United States due to poor health and rumors have circulated that she may return to Taiwan for a possible election campaign. Hsiao was scheduled to attend a Thanksgiving dinner with AIT Chair Laura Rosenberger but cited discomfort from a recent COVID-19 vaccine booster. Speculation has arisen that Hsiao may become Democratic Progressive Party presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s running mate in the 2024 presidential election. Lai has remained tight-lipped about the vice presidential candidate, stating that the consideration is almost complete and an announcement will be made at the appropriate time. The presidential election registration in Taiwan is scheduled from November 20 to 24.

Taiwan’s Minister of Health and Welfare, Hsueh Jui-yuan, confirms planned amendments to the ＂Assisted Reproduction Act＂ will include changes to surrogacy policies, extending coverage to same-sex partners, single women, and surrogate mothers. The draft law will be made public early next year and reviewed by the Executive Yuan by the year’s end. Presidential candidates have called for surrogacy policy consideration, with Ko Wen-je inviting a long-term surrogacy policy advocate for discussion. The amendments are not influenced by Ko’s political platform. The ongoing effort to amend the law has been ongoing for two-and-a-half years, with a preliminary draft of 42 articles finalized and 13 expert meetings held. The revision aims to protect children’s rights while addressing same-sex marriage, single women, and surrogacy issues. Surrogacy services will require professional consultation and legal contracts to outline rights and obligations for both parties.

Presidential candidates in Taiwan have unveiled energy policies that prioritize renewable energy and low-carbon gas as bridging fuels. Taipower, the national power company, has announced plans to accelerate the construction of gas turbine units across the country. The Hsieh-Ho Power Plant, which supplies electricity to the northern region, is currently undergoing an environmental impact assessment. Shifting from oil to gas can reduce air pollution by 96% and greenhouse gas emissions by 52%. In recent years, the government, private sector, and Taipower have made significant efforts to increase the capacity of renewable energy devices. As of September this year, the cumulative capacity of photovoltaic installations exceeded 11.55 million kilowatts, and wind power reached 2,583,000 kilowatts. By prioritizing green energy and using gas, Taipower has reduced air pollution emissions from thermal power plants by 60%, dropping from approximately 107,000 metric tons in 2016 to about 42,000 metric tons in 2022.

Taiwan’s tourism industry is facing a significant labor shortage, prompting the government to consider introducing migrant workers into the hospitality sector. However, no specific timeline has been set for this proposal. Scholars and citizens have expressed concerns about potential job displacement and the negative impact on wages for local workers. Calls have been made for more efficient solutions to alleviate employee workload, rather than solely relying on wage increases. Professor Cheng Chih-yu of National Chengchi University (NCCU) emphasized that even with higher wages, the demanding nature and long hours associated with hospitality work may not attract job seekers. Similarly, Associate Professor Hsin Ping-lung of National Taiwan University (NTU) noted that the labor shortage has intensified workload in the hospitality industry, yet it has not attracted more workers. Professor Cheng suggested a cautious approach to the introduction of migrant workers, considering it as a last resort after exhausting all other means to address the problem. He expressed concerns that if the policy is relaxed, companies may opt for cheaper foreign labor, leading to the displacement of local workers and wage suppression. Additionally, the labor market for older workers and women seeking a second career could be affected.

Apple’s iPhone 15 has propelled the company to the top of the smartphone market, capturing a commanding 47.7 percent market share in 2023. This surge in sales has come at the expense of competitors such as Samsung, which now holds a 22.9 percent market share, and OPPO, which stands at 10.3 percent. Even in China, where Vivo and Redmi are strong players, Apple has made an impact, with each holding a 5.2 percent share. Apple’s total sales have seen a significant increase, with over 160 thousand units sold upon its release, more than double the previous month.

Premier Chen Chien-jen reaffirms Taiwan’s commitment to freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, emphasizing that any citizen who abides by legal requirements can run for public office. He made these remarks in response to inquiries about the Taiwan People’s Party potentially nominating Xu Chunying, the president of Taiwan New Immigrant Development Association and a mainland spouse, for at-large legislative elections. Chen clarified that political parties have the right to nominate suitable candidates for government positions but urged them to provide transparent information about their nominees’ background and proposals to enable informed choices by the public.

President Tsai Ing-wen has been invited by Hiroyasu Izumi, Chief Representative of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office, to deliver a speech in Japan. Tsai, Taiwan’s first female president, has garnered attention in Japan and is expected to receive a warm welcome. The invitation comes after Tsai awarded Izumi the ＂Order of Brilliant Star＂ for his contributions to Taiwan-Japan relations. During the award ceremony, Tsai emphasized the progress made by both nations over the past four years and highlighted their shared values of democracy and freedom. Izumi described Taiwan-Japan relations as inseparable, emphasizing Japan’s unwavering support for Taiwan.

Terry Gou, an independent presidential candidate in Taiwan, is calling for public support in the upcoming election. With only six days left to collect enough signatures to secure a spot on the ballot, Gou has been absent from the public eye for six consecutive days. In a Facebook post, he outlined his political philosophy centered on ＂peace,＂ ＂prosperity,＂ and ＂integrity,＂ claiming to embody the spirit of a venture entrepreneur who values professionalism, organization, and fearlessness. Gou aims to build a Republic of China representing these principles and warns of potential chaos if no changes are made to the current power structure. He has set up signature collection stations across Taiwan and encourages the public to share his posts and invite friends to endorse his campaign.

Taiwan Semiconductor Industry Association Chair Cliff Hou has made four key suggestions to the government in a proposal, emphasizing the need to prepare for significant changes in the global semiconductor industry due to the rise of AI.

Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Joseph Wu emphasizes the importance of seeking support from other countries for Taiwan’s leading political figures when visiting abroad. Wu’s comments were made in response to former president Ma Ying-jeou’s criticisms of Robert O’Brien and some Americans for ＂weaponizing＂ Taiwan. Wu expressed regret over Ma’s remarks and stressed the need for international backing in the face of pressure from China. His message suggests that Taiwanese leaders should unite with supportive forces overseas rather than create discord.

Taiwan’s independent presidential candidate, Terry Gou, has made his move ahead of the impending 2024 presidential race, proposing the notion of a ＂two-round voting system＂ on Tuesday evening (Oct. 17). In a Facebook post, the Foxconn founder expressed the need for constitutional reform in the existing system, criticizing the divide of power and responsibility between the president and the Premier. He advocates for reform to a ’double-leadership’ structure, aligning both power and responsibility with the position of president.

Taiwan has launched its first domestically produced submarine, the ’Narwhal,’ marking a significant step in strengthening its naval capabilities. The vessel can be equipped with U.S.-made Mk-48 torpedoes, enhancing Taiwan’s direct threat potential against the Chinese navy.

Former NBA star Dwight Howard hints at a surprise return to Taiwan, expressing his love for fans and teasing potential participation in basketball events. Despite rumors of an NBA comeback or signing with the Golden State Warriors, Howard has not made any official announcements. The new seasons of Taiwan’s basketball leagues are set to begin in November, but there is no confirmation of Howard’s involvement.

Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen announced the successful launch of Taiwan’s first domestically-produced weather satellite, the Triton. The satellite, completely ＂Made in Taiwan,＂ signifies Taiwan’s advancement in the global space industry. President Tsai emphasized the government’s commitment to investing TWD 25.1 billion over the next decade to promote the space industry chain and cultivate talent in space technology. The Triton will enhance typhoon forecasting and facilitate scientific research in atmosphere, ocean, and terrestrial hydrometeorology. Its data collection is expected to revolutionize global meteorological observation and forecasting. President Tsai expressed her aspirations for Taiwanese manufacturing to expand towards space.

Taiwan’s first self-made weather satellite, Triton, successfully launched from the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana on Arianespace’s Vega VV23 flight. Equipped with a locally developed Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R), Triton’s main task is to calculate wind speeds by receiving signals reflected off the sea surface. It utilizes GNSS-R, a new scientific technology, to observe conditions at all times and improve typhoon intensity and route predictions. Triton’s observational range covers the low-latitude bands of the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans, regions known for severe weather.

Taiwan celebrates a historic moment with the launch of its domestically manufactured submarine, Hai Kun. This development strengthens the nation’s national defense capabilities and underscores its commitment to self-reliance. Learn more about Taiwan’s submarine milestone.