Stories from Taipei · Taiwan

A US Secretary of State said that the Taiwan issue represents the largest risk between the United States and China. Any restriction of semiconductor flows by the United States or China would cause a global financial and economic shock. Countries face challenges in preparing for such a disruption. Taiwan has officially regained recognition from the World Health Organization (WHO) for its pork exports. This follows a period of intensive defense efforts conducted over the past year. The achievement marks Taiwan's return to status as a major player in managing infectious disease sources in Asia. The announcement was framed as a moment of national pride for the territory. Taiwan's contributions to global economic and social welfare were highlighted, with a report in the United Daily News detailing fourteen major areas of impact.

The Kuomintang (KMT) party in Taiwan is facing internal division over two competing policy versions, the 380 billion TWD version and the 800 billion TWD version. Internal factional tensions remain unresolved according to the report.

The Trump administration's trade war with China has faced setbacks due to Chinese countermeasures, including restrictions on rare earth exports. Taiwanese legislators are debating new budget proposals, including a 550 billion TWD allocation for water management.

This status allows Taiwan to re-enter the Asian market for pork exports. This recognition was achieved after a year of intensive efforts and inspections. This achievement marks Taiwan's return to being one of the few countries in Asia free from three major animal diseases. This achievement means Taiwan is once again considered free of three major animal epidemic diseases. Taiwan has officially regained its status as one of Asia's top three disease-free countries. The broadcast also touched on the arms industry and its influence, suggesting that military contractors profit from conflict and push for global arms sales. It mentioned a potential 25-year business deal worth 200,000 units, implying military trade. This follows a formal recognition process completed last year.

The Taiwan military has commenced its annual Han Kuang 42 computer-based military exercises. The exercises are expected to continue until April 24 and will simulate People's Liberation Army gray-zone harassment and postal station disruptions.

A discussion in Taiwan highlighted concerns regarding missile range capabilities compared to the People's Liberation Army. Taiwan is evaluating its ability to manufacture missile components domestically, including nose cones and propulsion rockets.

Taiwan's economy grew at its fastest pace in almost four decades driven by the AI and tech boom. Manufacturers in the region forecast a 0.7% decline in output for the current month. A government survey indicates consumer confidence fell in April as households face higher living costs. The economy remains sensitive to inflation and import reliance. Taiwan's GDP for the quarter ending reached $80.2 billion. Shipments rose 62% year-on-year, nearly doubling previous estimates. The growth is largely attributed to TSMC, which recorded a 35% jump in quarterly revenue year-on-year. Taiwan's stock market rose to 6th place globally, overtaking the UK and Canada in the last three weeks. The Economic Daily reported on its front page that the rescue is a 'resurrection,' with Taiwan's chip industry expected to recover.

Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung met with a delegation of Japanese lawmakers to discuss economic partnership agreements.

A new book has been developed to categorize Taipei's cultural landmarks, natural landscapes, historical sites, and lifestyle aspects into 48 distinct themes.

The Immigration Bureau responded to protests from civil groups regarding the lack of political asylum for Myanmar nationals in Taiwan.