MADE 結果共383筆

The escalating Red Sea crisis prompts shipping companies to reroute, with ten shipping routes from Taipei and Kaohsiung passing through the Red Sea. The Houthi movement, favoring Iran, targets ships in the Red Sea, leading international and local shippers to prioritize safety by announcing delays or re-routing around the Cape of Good Hope. Shipping companies opt to navigate around the Cape or temporarily suspend services, expecting disruptions in ship schedules. The situation mainly affects regional operations and does not yet have global consequences, resulting in no congested ports like during the pandemic. National shipping lines have temporarily ceased accepting cargo for ports in Israel, with further assessments on route adjustments to be made.

Discover a unique tourist attraction in Thailand’s Chiang Rai province - paddy field art featuring intricately cultivated cat figures made from different rice varieties. Farmer Tanyapong Jaikham and his team have creatively brought the Thai proverb ＂There is fish in the water and rice in the fields＂ to life through these artistic depictions. With GPS precision, the rice seedlings are strategically placed to form the charming feline poses. This innovative endeavor is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors, inspiring the younger generation to explore the intersection of art, technology, and agriculture.

Tensions between management and unionized workers at Chunghwa Express (CHEX) continue as the company’s chairman announces a board meeting to address the issue of performance bonuses. The employees’ union, which has organized industrial actions over wages and bonuses, has been engaged in negotiations for over a year with no consensus reached. The union claims that negotiations have made no progress and is preparing for a strike vote. The union is urging the government to take the issues seriously and address the grievances of grassroots workers.

The number of approved overseas Chinese and foreign investments in Taiwan decreased by 8.89% to 2,102 cases in the first 11 months of 2023 compared to the same period last year. However, the investment amount from these sources reached US$10.79 billion (NT$323.7 billion), the second-highest in the past 15 years, with significant contributions from the offshore wind power sector. French company TotalEnergies Renewables SAS and British firm OSW Investments Taiwan JVCO 2 Limited increased their capital in Haiding Two International Investment Co., Ltd. by NT$5.03 billion. New companies established during this period amounted to 1,124 cases, with an investment value of US$680 million (NT$20.37 billion). Investments from Southeast Asian countries increased notably, with 609 cases, a 41.3% year-on-year increase, and a monetary surge of 25.2% to US$2.52 billion (NT$75.68 billion), mainly from Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. However, Chinese investments in Taiwan declined, with only 24 approved cases, a 45.45% decrease from the previous year, and investment figures dropping by 21.65% to US$27.38 million (NT$820 million). On the other hand, overseas investments from Taiwan increased, with a moderate rise in approved cases by 2.44% to 504 and a substantial annual increase of 145.61% in investment total to US$22.81 billion (NT$684.42 billion). Key overseas investments included TSMC’s US$8 billion capital injection into its Arizona subsidiary and a €3.5 billion investment in Germany’s ESMC GmbH. Foxconn Technology Group also made a significant investment of US$8 billion in its Singapore subsidiary, and Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp. invested a similar amount in Singapore-based Yang Ming (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.

DPP Chairman Lai Ching-te addressed the disputes surrounding his illegally constructed family property in Wanli, emphasizing that houses like his can apply for retroactive legalization through proper procedures. Lai argued that the house in question was built in 1958, before the implementing of the Mining Act in 1963 and the Regional Plan Act in 1981, making it legally established. He criticized the government’s mishandling of responsibilities following the cessation of mining rights, which made it difficult for residents in mining areas to repair their homes. Lai believes that the property can undergo procedural rectification to attain legal status. He compared his property to other high-profile constructions to clarify its scale and value. Lai expressed his commitment to transparency and rallied unity within the DPP, expressing confidence in their victory in the upcoming elections.

FamilyMart, a leading convenience store chain in Taiwan, has experienced significant growth in its fresh food sales, with an annual increase of at least 10% over the past three years. In 2022 alone, revenue from fresh foods reached NT$25 billion, accounting for over 30% of the company’s total revenue. Huang Cheng-tien, FamilyMart’s Fresh Foods Operations Manager, considers fresh foods a crucial strategic asset and has launched branded products targeting various market segments and trending categories. The focused brands, such as ’uno pasta’ for Italian pasta and ’minimore’ for desserts, have yielded impressive results, with pasta sales growing by 20% annually and dessert sales in 2022 skyrocketing by over 40%. FamilyMart has also made significant efforts to cater to health-conscious consumers, implementing structural reforms since 2016 that encompass ingredients, equipment, packaging, and processes. These reforms have contributed to the success of products like the tuna onigiri, which saw a 19% sales growth in 2022. Additionally, FamilyMart has collaborated with renowned restaurants and chefs, including Din Tai Fung, resulting in the sale of over 20 million co-branded items. These collaborations aim to create differentiated products by incorporating key ingredients from partners, such as a spicy sauce by Din Tai Fung used in unique offerings like grilled rice balls and fried noodles. In the first half of this year, FamilyMart’s fresh food revenue grew by an impressive 20%. The company’s General Manager, Hsueh Tung-tu, strives to attract more customers by offering unique products, following the motto ＂What others don’t have, we have; what others have, we excel in.＂

Taiwan’s Minister of Health and Welfare, Hsueh Jui-yuan, has announced significant increases in subsidies for dedicated pediatricians starting in 2024. The ＂2023 Plan to Optimize Pediatric Medical Care＂ aims to improve the quality of pediatric care and attract more young practitioners to the field. The subsidy for physicians specializing in the care of each young child will double from NT$500 to NT$1,000. The optimization plan, with a total budget of NT$2.8 billion, will run from 2021 to 2024, with NT$2 billion allocated for 2024 alone. The implementation of the dedicated pediatrician system across the nation underscores the investment made in this critical healthcare sector. Currently, 22 counties and municipalities have implemented the dedicated pediatrician system for children aged 0 to 3, and since November, it has expanded to include newborns. There are currently 1,882 dedicated pediatricians serving over 184,000 young children across 1,048 medical institutions, bringing the national coverage rate to 40.5%.

The TVBS Charity Foundation organized a fundraising dinner in Taipei, inviting social welfare agencies and disadvantaged households to participate. The event is part of a series of fundraising dinners in collaboration with municipal government teams, churches, and social welfare charities. Over 12,000 disadvantaged families have already been assisted through these events. New Taipei Acting Mayor Liu Ho-jan emphasized the beauty of Taiwanese society and the contributions made by individuals in improving the land. Through public-private partnerships, vulnerable families are receiving warmth and care before Christmas.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expressed ＂confusion and regret＂ five times in a statement regarding comments made by Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) vice presidential candidate Cynthia Wu. The MOFA highlighted that Wu’s proactive analysis and attendance at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) conferences could jeopardize Taiwan’s interests. Following her participation in the 28th United Nations Climate Change conference (COP28) in Dubai, Wu criticized the event’s low standards, stating it was a disservice to taxpayers. MOFA responded to Wu’s criticism, indicating that her conspicuous announcement to attend COP28 provided China with an opportunity to repress Taiwan’s participation, hindering the entire delegation and damaging Taiwan’s future international engagement, as well as the nation’s dignity. Wu’s office released a statement asserting that MOFA had not informed her of the risks of Chinese suppression. When asked about MOFA’s response, Wu declined to comment further. The MOFA expressed regret over the limitations imposed on Wu’s candidacy due to Chinese pressure, directly countering her doubts. MOFA emphasized that condemnation should be directed at China for obstructing Taiwan’s participation. The MOFA expressed bewilderment and regret that Wu criticized domestic institutions but failed to condemn China, the true suppressor of Taiwan’s international voice.

The Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) is considering a potential fare increase, with a plan to review the proposal in the first quarter of next year and a possible implementation in the latter half of the year if approved. The decision on fare adjustments will be made by the board of directors of the newly formed TRA company, which will be established on January 1. The board will determine the necessity, method, and extent of any price changes before submitting their proposal to the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC). Despite submitting several versions of fare increase proposals to the MOTC earlier this year, substantive discussions have not yet taken place. MOTC Minister Wang Kwo-tsai supports respecting the independent decisions of the company’s board of directors regarding fare adjustments. The transition to a company structure will decrease the direct impact of fare adjustments on TRA’s operations, and any losses incurred due to policy factors will be subsidized by the government under the provisions of corporatization. Former MOTC Minister Tan Ho-chen also supports increasing TRA’s ticket prices, arguing that it will help the railway understand its genuine operational costs and develop effective pricing strategies.

U.S. senators met in an unusual weekend session to amend border security policies, aiming to resolve the deadlock over assistance plans for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Democratic centrist Senator Joe Manchin expressed optimism about the progress being made, stating that bipartisan negotiators and representatives from the White House recognize the seriousness of border issues and the need for repair. Independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema, Democrat Chris Murphy, Republican James Lankford, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and other senior officials engaged in discussions to seek a compromise on border security policy revisions. While progress was reported, details were not disclosed. The crafting of the bill’s comprehensive text requires time for deliberation before the voting process can proceed.

On ＂Super Saturday＂ in Taichung, three groups of candidates rallied to support their respective parties’ legislative contenders ahead of Taiwan’s 2024 presidential and legislative elections. Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim campaigned tirelessly for her party’s legislative candidates, while Kuomintang (KMT) vice-presidential hopeful Jaw Shaw-Kong attended back-to-back events supporting Chiang Chi-chen and Yen Kuan-heng. The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) also made a strong showing, with Tsai Pi-ru, TPP’s first district legislative candidate in Taichung, gathering an impressive lineup of supporters including Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-ye, former Kaohsiung Mayor Han Kuo-yu, and TPP’s presidential candidate Ko Wen-je.

Taiwan’s state-run power company, Taipower, has been recognized at the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ ＂2023 Buying Power Small and Medium Enterprise and Startup Administration Awards＂ for its collaboration with the Maria Social Welfare Foundation. The award was given in appreciation of Taipower’s efforts in procuring socks made from recycled PET bottles, an eco-friendly initiative that catered to the demand for memorabilia at its annual shareholder meeting in 2023. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Taipower has received the top honor, making it the sole state-owned enterprise to be recognized this year. The company expressed pride in this achievement and highlighted its commitment not just to providing stable electricity but also to supporting environmentally friendly products. Taipower plans to sustain its responsible procurement practices and continue focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues.

The Yomiuri Giants, a Japanese professional baseball team, will be playing two exhibition games in Taiwan next March. They will face off against two Taiwanese teams, the CTBC Brothers on March 2 and the Rakuten Monkeys on March 3, at the Taipei Dome. Tsukasa Imamura, the president of the Giants, emphasized the importance of promoting baseball culture in Asia and expressed his hope for more Taiwanese players to join the team in the future. He mentioned that the Giants’ scouts have a high regard for Taiwanese high school players but have noticed a perceived stagnation in their skills after reaching college. Imamura hopes that Taiwan can produce more legendary players like Kuo Tai-yuan and Kuo Yuen-chih, who have already made a name for themselves in Japanese baseball. Throughout the years, 10 Taiwanese players, excluding the iconic Sadaharu Oh, have played for the Giants in Japan’s professional leagues, highlighting the ongoing baseball exchange between the two neighboring countries.

Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan expresses optimism about trade talks with the United States, citing U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai’s positive stance on advancing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with key trading partners. The discussions between Taiwan and the United States have made significant progress, with the US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade already reaching five agreements. Second-phase talks, including agriculture, are currently underway. The possibility of addressing tariffs in the negotiations is not ruled out. Additionally, the U.S. House of Representatives has proposed mutual tax exemption to alleviate taxation burdens, a development that could spare corporations and individuals from double taxation issues. Cheng emphasizes the need for diligent and concerted effort in deepening economic ties between Taiwan and the United States.

Former Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-pyng, in an effort to strengthen support within the Kuomintang (KMT), highlighted the importance of unity and expressed his desire for the return of Foxconn Founder Terry Gou to the party. Wang also announced his commitment to serve as the national campaign chairman for KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih. These statements were made during a luncheon held in Taipei to gather resources from the pro-Gou faction in support of Hou and his running mate. Former KMT Vice Chairman Hau Lung-bin and former party Secretary-General Lee Chien-lung were also present, showing their support for Wang’s initiative. Wang emphasized that KMT chairpersons are now more united than ever, with all past grievances resolved.

The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Management Office has announced a comprehensive smoking ban and the elimination of designated smoking areas in order to maintain the integrity of the park’s recreational environment. This decision comes after Taiwanese entertainer Tai Chih-yuan criticized the memorial’s park administration for cutting down trees to establish a smoking zone, which he deemed harmful to the environment. However, the office clarified that the smoking area was established in 2009 and had no connection to the removal of the trees, which were infested with brown root rot disease. The decision to cut down the trees was made to ensure public safety and prevent the spread of the disease to other trees in the area, according to a statement from the office. Once the condition of the trees was confirmed by the Ministry of Agriculture’s Forestry Research Institute, the office promptly provided public notice and carried out necessary operations.

The renowned Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Band, also known as the ＂Orange Devils,＂ has returned to Taiwan in December after gaining a fervent fan base. Known for their vibrant and smile-filled performance style, the band made a memorable mark during last year’s National Day celebrations. The ’Orange Devils’ have planned flash mob events and are scheduled to hold their premiere concert at the National Concert Hall in Taipei. The band expressed their happiness about visiting Taiwan and their anticipation of meeting with the Taiwanese audience again. The visit aims to fortify cultural exchanges between Taiwan and Japan, as expressed by Huang Chun-chieh, the General Manager of a Taiwanese food brand. To enhance the band members’ experience in Taiwan, arrangements have been made for them to tour distinctive local scenic spots. Upon their arrival on the evening of December 9, the Kyoto Tachibana High School Band immediately showcased their signature enthusiasm and energy. The visit is expected to entertain their Taiwanese fans and continue strengthening the cultural bridges between the two nations.

Discover the groundbreaking ＂Taiwan as a Pioneer＂ (TAP) project, a four-year research initiative by Trier University, Bochum University, and Tuebingen University, aimed at elevating Taiwan studies in Europe. Supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the project has already made significant progress, including workshops, fieldwork in Green Island, and funding for scholars’ trips to Taiwan. With a budget of approximately NT＄68 million, TAP seeks to enhance the profile of Taiwan research, while a handbook on Taiwan research methodologies is set to be published by 2025, marking a milestone in European academia.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yi-ih and his running mate Chao Shao-kang held a rally in Hualien, drawing a crowd of thousands. Former President Ma Ying-jeou also made an appearance. The event, organized by KMT Legislator Fu Kun-chi, saw around 50,000 participants. Hou emphasized his plans to improve local infrastructure and criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim for opposing the island-wide rapid broadband project. KMT Chairman Eric Chu praised the unity displayed in Hualien. The collaboration between Fu and Ma at the rally signifies a reconciled front leading up to the election.

The Kuomintang’s (KMT) legislative head of the Taipei City branch, Huang Lu Chin-ju, confidently stated that the KMT is poised to win five out of the eight constituencies in the upcoming legislative elections in Taipei City. Huang believes that the KMT’s strong standing in the elections could boost support for KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih. Huang also discussed the competitive race in the Shilin-Beitou constituency, highlighting the close contest between KMT candidate Chang Szu-kang and Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) Rosalia Wu. Huang noted that the inclusion of Taipei City Councillor Hou Han-ting in the race could create a two-strong and one-weak scenario. Huang also mentioned the situation in the Datong-Shilin district, where KMT candidate Yu Shu-hui has made a remarkable comeback in polling. While Huang expressed confidence in securing five seats, the ultimate goal is to win all eight seats in Taipei City.

The Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School marching band, known as the ＂Orange Devils,＂ arrived in Taiwan to a warm welcome at Taoyuan International Airport. Their visit is a testament to the strong ties between Taiwan and Japan, which were first sparked during their performance at the 2022 Taiwan National Day celebration. The band’s invitation this year, alongside Taipei First Girls High School, is an effort to further strengthen cultural bonds, as they are set to participate in the upcoming celebration of TGH’s 120th Anniversary. The visit has been made possible through corporate support, including an invitation from the Kaohsiung City Government for school exchanges and performances. Over the next five days, the Tachibana SHS band will showcase their talent at prestigious venues such as Kaohsiung’s Time Avenue, TAI Urban Resort, New Taipei’s Fuji Grand Hotel, Ximending, and the National Theater & Concert Hall.

Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je’s wife, Peggy Chen, openly challenged the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on December 9th, expressing her willingness to face legal consequences if sued. Chen’s challenge followed her questioning the integrity of the Premier and the Minister of the Interior on Facebook, alleging their deliberate obstruction of the approval process for the Taipei Dome project during Ko’s tenure as Taipei City Mayor in October of the previous year. During an event in Taichung City’s Dali District, Chen boldly stated, ＂If the DPP wants to sue, then sue me!＂ She emphasized that her information came directly from Ko himself and assured that she had made efforts to verify the claims. When asked about the recent decline in Ko’s support according to polls, Chen simply responded, ＂Just keep working hard.＂

The Ministry of the Interior in Taiwan has announced that it will allocate NT＄10 million for the implementation of the Provisional Act Governing Religious Groups Registering Real Estate in the Name of a Natural Person. This legislation aims to address issues surrounding properties acquired by religious groups but registered under individual names. Minister Lin Yu-chang made the announcement during a visit to Bali Zihuang Tianyi Zhenqing temple, emphasizing the outreach to temples across Taiwan to communicate the details of the Act. In addition, the Ministry plans to increase government subsidies for temple activities, committing an additional NT＄15 million to support these communities, a significant increase from the previous annual subsidy of NT＄420,000. The Department of Religious and Ceremonial Affairs, established last year, will administer these initiatives, with the new budget allocations facilitated through local governments to ensure a seamless implementation and the preservation of Taiwan’s religious landscape.

Taiwanese entertainer Aaron Yan has been cleared of charges related to sexual offenses, including secret photography and assault, according to the Shilin District Prosecutors Office. The allegations were made by internet celebrity Chiu Yao-le in June, leading to the suspension of Yan’s entertainment career and side business. Prosecutors found that Yan had shared private videos of Chiu with friends, a violation of the Child and Youth Sexual Exploitation Prevention Act. Yan will only be indicted on charges related to filming and possessing videos depicting the sexual conduct of a minor. The case is scheduled to be heard behind closed doors on December 21.