Stories from Taipei · Taiwan

Taiwan's high-speed rail service plans to introduce new trains based on Japan's N700S model by the second half of 2027. The N700C trains will weigh approximately 13 tonnes less than current models and improve overall efficiency by about 7%. The design features a streamlined shape to reduce wind resistance, noise, and sonic booms when entering tunnels. Additionally, the new trains aim to reduce noise by 3 decibels and shorten emergency braking distances by approximately 20%. The announcement was made by reporter Chang Po-tsung in Taipei. New rolling stock for the Taiwan High Speed Rail is scheduled to enter official operation in the second half of 2027. This upgrade aims to enhance the existing rail network. Taiwan is enhancing its drone industry by strengthening cross-ministry coordination and leveraging the domestic market to drive commercial and military drone development.

Mainland Affairs Council spokesperson Liang Wen-chieh noted that policies allowing mainland enterprises to invest in Taiwan were intended to facilitate families bringing adult children for care. Education Minister Cheng Ying is expected to address dormitory management, noting that not all universities enforce curfews. National Development Council official Yeh Chun-hsien indicated that the presidential and executive offices are preparing major announcements regarding state-supported childcare. The proposed measures may cover children from ages 0 to 6 and potentially up to 18. Specific policy directions mentioned include expanding male parental leave benefits. The announcement is expected to be coordinated by the next presidential administration's executive team. The proposed policies aim to support children from ages 0 to 18 through a 'state-supported upbringing' framework.

Taiwanese electricity users will face a 9.34% rate increase to reflect rising power generation costs. Taiwanese government officials announced that electricity rates for residential and industrial users will not be adjusted in May to stabilize domestic prices. Electricity prices in Taiwan may increase during the second half of the year due to high international natural gas spot market prices. Tensions in the Middle East have kept these prices at elevated levels. The source noted that while industrial and residential gas prices will not change in May, the electricity sector is expected to see adjustments. The price of industrial natural gas rose by 9.34% in May.

Taiwan has been rated as the world's most economically happy economy for 2025, according to a report with a 2.1 pain index score.

The possibility of the Trump administration using Taiwan as a bargaining chip in negotiations with China has increased, according to analyst Feng Cun. During a meeting in Washington D.C. A report indicates the US may use the Taiwan issue as a lever in leadership talks with China to strengthen its negotiating position. This follows discussions between officials in Washington D.C. and Taiwanese representatives regarding historical US-China negotiations. Tensions between Japan and China at the UN Security Council may influence US-China leadership talks, with potential for the US to use the Taiwan issue as a negotiation lever. Taiwan Legislative Yuan Speaker Han Kuo-yu has scheduled a fourth round of negotiations for Wednesday, May 6.

The Taipei District Prosecutors Office filed an appeal on the final day of the deadline regarding the sentencing of former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je. The Taipei District Prosecutors' Office appealed the 17-year prison sentence handed to Taiwan People's Party founder Ko Wen-je. Prosecutors are seeking a heavier sentence following the initial verdict. Prosecutors had previously sought a sentence of 28 years and 6 months. The Taipei District Prosecutors Office stated they needed to study the reasoning behind the first-instance judgment before filing. The appeal comes amid public criticism from Chen Pei-chi, who compared the case to President Lai Ching-te's pet dog. Investigators had originally sought a sentence of 28 years and six months.

Starlux Airlines announced a partnership for its second-quarter in-flight catering services.

Political tension has emerged within Taiwan's Kuomintang (KMT) party regarding voting protocols and recent remarks by legislator Ji Ling-lien.

Conflict erupted during a review meeting for the Shizidao development project in Taipei. Residents claim 615 families' petitions were refused acceptance and protested restrictions on speaking during the development project review. More than 6,000 people marched through the streets of Taipei to demand reform policies. Protesters expressed concerns regarding Taiwan's aging population. Labour groups also called for equal treatment for foreign workers. Mews stated the gatherings demonstrate efforts toward respect and mutual growth.

Taiwanese legislative leader Han Kuo-yu held his third round of consultations regarding a special military construction bill. Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng stated that specific details regarding the US arms sales letter cannot be disclosed due to security classifications. The Taiwan Legislative Yuan has postponed consultations regarding military legislation, according to reports from Taiwanese media.