Month: August 2026

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On the morning of August 4, President Lai Ching-te met with a study delegation from the Youth Division of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). In remarks, President Lai thanked the Japanese government for its continued support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and emphasized that to address China’s continuous gray-zone aggression and maritime coercion against neighboring countries, Taiwan and Japan should deepen cooperation, solidarity, and mutual aid to jointly protect democracy, freedom, peace, and prosperity.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
Last week, an earthquake struck Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture, and on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I once again want to express our most sincere condolences. I hope that the reconstruction efforts will proceed safely and smoothly, and that those affected by the disaster can resume their normal lives as soon as possible. This delegation originally included three distinguished guests from Kumamoto, but they were unable to come due to the earthquake. We sincerely hope that they, and their relatives and friends, are all well. Taiwan is also ready to provide assistance at any time if needed. I myself, the government, and many Taiwanese citizens, enterprises, and civil society groups all hope to do our part through donations to help those affected by the disaster get through this difficult time, rebuild their homes, and return to normal life soon.
I firmly believe that this is the best, most natural, and most genuine expression of Taiwan-Japan relations. As good friends who stand together through thick and thin, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other in the face of natural disasters, the pandemic, and many other challenges. After the Hualien earthquake two years ago, the LDP Youth Division also initiated fundraising efforts to assist Taiwan significantly, for which we were deeply grateful and moved.
I welcome the LDP Youth Division to continue sending large delegations to Taiwan for study and visits, enhancing friendly Taiwan-Japan relations. House of Representatives Member Hiranuma Shojiro, who is joining us today, maintains close ties with Taiwan, and was the guest from abroad I met with most frequently last year. We are also very grateful to Representative Hiranuma for promptly and publicly expressing his support after my visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini in April was delayed due to external interference.
I want to thank the Japanese government once again for reaffirming the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait on numerous occasions at international venues, highlighting Japan’s firm commitment to regional peace. I have always believed that without unity, there is no freedom, and that without strength, there is no peace. The greatest threat to Taiwan and Japan is not typhoons, earthquakes, or infectious diseases, but China’s continuous gray-zone aggression and maritime coercion against neighboring countries. Last month, China even implemented a law facilitating transnational repression, intending to extend its political jurisdiction and governance by fear to Taiwan, Japan, and democratic countries around the world. Therefore, only through unity and cooperation can Taiwan and Japan jointly safeguard democracy, freedom, peace, and prosperity.
In closing, I hope to continue deepening the Taiwan-Japan partnership, and wish the delegation a smooth and rewarding trip.
Representative Hiranuma then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for taking time out of his busy schedule to meet an overseas study delegation with over 80 members. He then stated that the members of this year’s delegation, like similar delegations in the past, come from local youth divisions and student divisions from various regions. He said that he hopes to cultivate the next generation who will shoulder the future development of Taiwan-Japan relations and carry on the spirit of the Taiwan-Japan friendship.
Representative Hiranuma then mentioned the recent Kumamoto earthquake, thanking President Lai and the governments of Taiwan’s various counties and cities, as well as civil society groups and enterprises, for their heartfelt assistance after the disaster. He also said that Taiwan and Japan are both facing the threat of natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes, and so disaster prevention is an important issue for both countries. Currently, he said, one of the important missions of Japan’s newly established Disaster Management Agency is to promote international cooperation in that field. Representative Hiranuma said that he looks forward to deepening cooperation and exchanges related to disaster prevention with Taiwan in the future.
Representative Hiranuma noted that the international landscape is becoming increasingly tense and complex, with regions around the world, such as the Middle East, facing many challenges. Taiwan and Japan, who share the same values, should strengthen their cooperative relationship to promote regional peace and stability, he said. The representative added that Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae is actively promoting cooperation between the government and the private sector to foster industrial development in 17 strategic sectors including semiconductors, AI, and drones. He stated that he firmly believes that deepening Taiwan-Japan relations will also contribute to industrial development in both countries, including strengthening supply chain resilience, reducing dependence on a single market, and cultivating talent.
Representative Hiranuma stated that the Youth Division and Taiwan have maintained friendly relations for over half a century, and that he hopes this visit will create more opportunities for exchanges and further deepen bilateral ties. In the future, he said, he will continue to promote cooperation and exchanges between Taiwan and Japan, fostering an even more amicable relationship.
The delegation also included Japanese House of Representatives Members Takami Yasuhiro, Kusama Tsuyoshi, and Sakamoto Ryutaro, as well as Aichi Prefectural Assembly Member Tanaka Yasuhiko. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki. 

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On the afternoon of August 4, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Prime Minister Russell Dlamini of the Kingdom of Eswatini. In remarks, President Lai thanked Eswatini for voicing support at international venues for Taiwan’s international participation, demonstrating its staunch backing for Taiwan. The president stated that both countries will continue to expand exchanges and cooperation in such fields as energy, public health, talent cultivation, and industrial development. He expressed hope that Taiwan and Eswatini can steadily advance ties through creating more mutually beneficial outcomes.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
To begin, I would like to warmly welcome our distinguished guests to Taiwan and to the Presidential Office. This morning, I attended the Ketagalan Forum with Prime Minister Dlamini. I am glad to have this opportunity for further exchanges with your delegation. At the forum, Prime Minister Dlamini delivered a keynote speech on behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III, sharing Eswatini’s perspective and observations on international affairs, democratic governance, and sustainable development. The speech brought valuable insights to this year’s forum and pointed out directions for Taiwan and Eswatini to explore for future cooperation.
I would like to thank His Majesty King Mswati III of Eswatini for staunchly supporting Taiwan. Earlier this year, my visit to your country was temporarily postponed due to external interference. Shortly afterwards, thanks to help from His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Queen Mother, I successfully visited Eswatini in early May. The visit was very fruitful, and it allowed the international community to witness the unwavering friendship between Taiwan and the Kingdom of Eswatini. I especially thank Prime Minister Dlamini for personally receiving me and seeing me off at the airport, demonstrating Eswatini’s high regard for Taiwan. Now, three months later, you have led a delegation to Taiwan at our invitation, further reaffirming the strong ties between our nations.
Taiwan and Eswatini have long supported each other over the years. We continue to expand exchanges and cooperation in such fields as energy, public health, talent cultivation, and industrial development. Major projects including the strategic oil reserve facility, the Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park, and the Royal Science and Technology Park are fruits of our collaboration that advance national development and create greater well-being for our peoples.
I once again thank Eswatini for staunchly backing Taiwan’s international participation. At last year’s United Nations General Assembly, His Majesty King Mswati III urged the international community to correctly interpret UNGA resolution 2758 and include Taiwan in international affairs. And last year, during the COP30 Leaders’ Summit, Prime Minister Dlamini spoke up for Taiwan’s participation in global climate governance. The people of Taiwan will always remember these meaningful actions with heartfelt gratitude.
Facing a rapidly changing international landscape, as well as opportunities and challenges brought about by technological development, Taiwan will continue to build upon our current foundation of cooperation in implementing the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project. We will deepen exchanges in industry, public health, and digital transformation with Eswatini to help it realize its vision of development. Through creating more mutually beneficial outcomes, we will steadily advance the ties between our two nations. In closing, I wish you a smooth and successful visit. I also kindly ask Prime Minister Dlamini to convey sincerest greetings from Taiwan to His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Queen Mother.
Prime Minister Dlamini then delivered remarks, first expressing sincere gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to the delegation since their arrival in Taiwan last night. He said it is indeed a pleasure to be back in what they proudly regard as their second home. He conveyed to President Lai and the people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) greetings and best wishes from His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Queen Mother. He said that President Lai’s successful visit to Eswatini and safe return home reaffirmed the enduring friendship between our two nations, strengthened our long-standing partnership, and demonstrated to the international community the depth and resilience of our bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Dlamini then reaffirmed that the government and the people of the Kingdom of Eswatini greatly value the steadfast friendship and cooperation they continue to enjoy with the government and people of Taiwan. Over the years, he continued, the partnership has delivered meaningful and tangible benefits to their people, noting that Taiwan’s support through scholarships, technical cooperation, and capacity-building initiatives has contributed significantly to the advancement of their health, agriculture, education, and energy sectors, amongst others. He expressed particular appreciation for Taiwan’s contributions towards expanding access to electricity in Eswatini, which continues to improve livelihoods and stimulate economic development.
Prime Minister Dlamini stated that His Majesty King Mswati III is committed to nurturing this special relationship, and is encouraged by the progress we have made together. Our shared aspiration, he said, is not only to preserve our long-standing friendship, but to elevate it into a modern strategic partnership that is politically resilient, economically transformative, technologically innovative, and visibly beneficial to the people of both our nations.
Prime Minister Dlamini pointed out that as trusted partners, we are well positioned to expand cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, innovation, digital transformation, healthcare, education, agriculture, renewable energy, and youth empowerment. He expressed confidence that by building our shared values of democracy, peace, mutual respect, and sustainable development, our partnership will continue to flourish for generations to come.
Prime Minister Dlamini mentioned that he enjoyed the session at the Ketagalan Forum this morning, adding that he learned much and that Eswatini will be better positioned to support Taiwan in future as a result of their participation in the forum. In closing, he thanked the Taiwan government once again for its generous invitation and warm hospitality, and said that he looks forward to fruitful discussions and to the continued strengthening of the excellent relations between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
The delegation also included Minister of Natural Resources and Energy His Royal Highness Prince Lonkhokhela, Economic Planning and Development Minister Dr. Thambo Gina, and Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Charge d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Eswatini Sithembiso M. Gama.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced today (August 5) that Commune, a leading bar-restaurant chain from the Mainland, has opened its first store in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in its global expansion. The brand will establish its regional headquarters in the city to steer overseas growth. Located at Lee Garden Three in Causeway Bay, the store serves as the group’s flagship location in Hong Kong.

     Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion Mr Arnold Lau said, “Hong Kong has always been the perfect launchpad for brands to test new ideas, connect with an international audience, and grow across the region. Commune’s decision to open its first store here highlights the city’s key advantages: a sophisticated consumer market, a vibrant dining scene, and its role as a gateway to Southeast Asia and beyond. We are delighted to support the brand in setting up in Hong Kong and look forward to seeing it flourish throughout the region.”

     The Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer of Commune, Ms Fan Xiameng, said, “Hong Kong is the first step in Commune’s global journey. The city’s international clientele, excellent business environment, and robust legal framework provide the ideal foundation for us to build our brand and expand across Southeast Asia. We are deeply committed to Hong Kong, with plans to open additional store locations over the next 12 months.”

     Commune is an all-day directly-managed bar-restaurant chain that combines craft brewers, curated dishes and spacious social areas to create a relaxed and comfortable gathering setting for customers. Operating in over 100 locations across the Chinese Mainland, Commune has ranked first among bar-restaurant brands in the market by revenue for three consecutive years since 2022.

     Throughout the setup process, InvestHK provided end-to-end strategic guidance, including licensing regulation and visa facilitation, location advisory, and industry ecosystem networking, ensuring a seamless launch for the brand’s regional expansion out of Hong Kong.

     For more information about Commune, please visit www.jiwusiwei.com (Chinese only).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     In connection with a murder case happened in Tsim Sha Tsui on July 26, Police further arrested four local men. 

     Police arrested four local men, aged between 26 and 33, for murder yesterday (August 4) in various districts.

     Investigation revealed that the four arrestees were in suspected connection with the aforementioned murder case, in which a 32-year-old local man died.

     Each of the four arrestees will be laid a holding charge with one count of murder and the case will be mentioned at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (August 6) morning. 

     Concerning the case, Police earlier arrested nine men and three women, aged between 24 and 52. Eight of the arrestees have been laid holding charges with murder and assisting offenders respectively. The cases were mentioned at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts from July 30 and August 3. The remaining arrestees have been released on bail and are required to report back to the Police in late August.

     Active investigation by the Regional Anti-triad Unit of Kowloon West is under way.      

     Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 8361.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs conducted an enforcement operation with Mainland and Macao Customs from July 20 to 31, during which inspections of goods across the three places and destined for countries in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia were stepped up, with a view to combating cross-boundary and transshipment counterfeiting activities.

Through intelligence analysis and detailed investigations, Hong Kong Customs in the operation detected 23 related cases at a number of local express couriers and logistics companies, seizing a total of about 38 000 suspected counterfeit goods, including watches, mobile phones, bags, clothing and footwear, with a total estimated market value of about $15 million. 

Hong Kong Customs will continue to work closely with the Mainland Customs, Macao Customs and overseas law enforcement agencies to vigorously combat cross-boundary counterfeit goods transshipping activities through intelligence exchanges and joint enforcement actions.

Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who imports or exports any goods to which a forged trademark is applied commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.

Members of the public may report any suspected counterfeiting activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs detected a suspected smuggling case involving a river trade vessel on July 27. Large batches of suspected smuggled goods with a total estimated market value of about $4 million were seized.

Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, a river trade vessel departing from Hong Kong for Macao was selected for inspection on the abovementioned date. Upon examination, Customs officers aboard the vessel found large batches of suspected smuggled goods, including suspected pharmaceutical products, cosmetic injection vials, tobacco products, and suspected dried geckos. 

Investigations are ongoing. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.

Being a government department primarily responsible for tackling smuggling activities, Customs has long been combating various smuggling activities on all fronts. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to resolutely combat sea smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to crack down on relevant crimes.

Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.

Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The 2026 FUN FOOD TAIWAN Awards Ceremony, organized by the Industrial Development Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs (IDA) and implemented by the Food Industry Research and Development Institute (FIRDI), took place on June 24 at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 2. This year’s competition drew 107 companies with 235 entries across bakery, prepared foods and specialty food categories. Following a rigorous review by experts from industry, academia and the marketplace, 89 products were recognized, including 17 recipients of the program’s highest honor, the FUN FOOD TAIWAN Award. Together, these award-winning products reflect the Taiwan food industry’s continued commitment to product innovation, sustainability and enhanced consumer experiences.

As food manufacturers respond to shifting global supply chains, the transition toward net-zero emissions and rapidly changing consumer preferences, companies are placing greater emphasis on innovation to remain competitive. To help companies adapt, the IDA launched FUN FOOD TAIWAN, encouraging companies to innovate, embrace sustainable practices and build brands that stand out in international markets.

Since its launch in 2020, FUN FOOD TAIWAN has continued to identify and promote products with strong market potential while encouraging the industry to move toward higher-value and more differentiated development. During its first phase (2020-2024), the initiative focused on three themes – Clean Label & High Value, Design & Experience, and Convenience & Sustainability – and attracted 1,049 entries, with 384 products receiving awards.

In 2025, the program entered a new stage with the launch of FUN FOOD TAIWAN 2.0, shifting its focus to Product Evolution, Carbon Reduction, and Enhanced Consumer Experience. The updated framework encourages companies to respond to evolving market trends by advancing product innovation, sustainable manufacturing, and consumer-centered design.

This year’s award-winning products clearly reflect the three core values of FUN FOOD TAIWAN 2.0. In the bakery category, Joy Joy Golden’s Gold Award-winning “Assorted Rice Cracker Gift Tin” reimagines Taiwan’s rice culture through contemporary design, creating a distinctive consumer experience. Lady Dou’s Gold Award-winning “Roasted Protein Lump – Soy Sauce” demonstrates how innovative, protein-rich products are meeting growing consumer demand for healthier diets while reflecting the industry’s continued strength in research and development (R&D). Meanwhile, Sooko’s Gold Award-winning “Sooko Peeled Citrus Crisps (100% Real Fruit)” combines energy-efficient drying technology with thoughtful brand design, demonstrating how product innovation, sustainable technology, and brand building can work together to create greater market value.

Over the past several years, FUN FOOD TAIWAN has evolved into an important platform for helping Taiwan’s food industry upgrade its capabilities and expand internationally. By supporting award-winning and participating companies at major international exhibitions, including FOODEX JAPAN and Anuga, the program has helped businesses strengthen brand visibility, expand their international distribution channels, and expand into markets across Northern Europe, Southeast Asia, North America, and Australia. Some participating companies have also reported domestic sales growth of 10 to 20 percent, demonstrating the program’s tangible impact on both industrial competitiveness and international market expansion.

Looking ahead, the IDA will continue to build on the success of FUN FOOD TAIWAN by strengthening connections across the food industry, distribution channels and international markets. Through this initiative, the IDA will support companies in creating higher-value products, building stronger brands and expanding their global reach, further strengthening the global competitiveness of Taiwan’s food industry.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     To celebrate its 25th anniversary, the Hong Kong Film Archive (HKFA) presents three editions of the programme series “Close Encounters with Master Filmmakers: Movie Talks” in 2026. The second edition will screen six pivotal films selected by director Andrew Lau from his own career at the Cinema of the HKFA on September 5 and 6. Andrew Lau will also attend post-screening talks with film critic Thomas Shin or director Benny Lau to look back on his legendary filmmaking journey with audiences.
 
     Joining the Shaw Brothers in 1981 as a production assistant, Andrew Lau constantly observed different directors at work on set, studying lighting design and cinematography techniques. At the same time, he watched large quantities of film rushes, read books on cinematography. He continuously introduced and experimented with new shooting methods and techniques, thus rose in a short period to become a widely recognised outstanding cinematographer in the industry. In 1990, Andrew Lau directed his first feature film, formally establishing his dual identity as both director and cinematographer. He cemented his status as a leading commercial film director with the “Young and Dangerous” series in the late 1990s. Thereafter, he actively expanded into markets beyond Hong Kong, directing films such as “Daisy” (2006) in Korea and “The Founding of an Army” (2017) on the Chinese Mainland, continuing to create popular works with exceptional craftsmanship and innovative spirit.
 
     “Legendary Weapons of China” (1982), the first film in which Andrew Lau participated in its production, was directed and written by Lau Kar-leung. In the film, the three factions supported by the Boxers often battle one another, with its action sequences interspersed with numerous fantastical combat scenes. The main character, Lui Gung, played by Lau Kar-leung, is hunted by the Boxers and has to fight against his brother Lui Yung in a showdown in which they wield different kinds of Chinese weapons, and defeats all opponents with his authentic kung fu in the end.
 
     The classic kung fu comedy “Mr. Vampire” (1985) was Andrew Lau’s breakthrough work as a cinematographer. The story follows a Taoist priest in repeated fierce battles against a vampire while his apprentice falls in love with a female ghost. In the scene where the female ghost floats from a sedan chair onto the young man’s bicycle, Andrew Lau used over a hundred lights to illuminate the entire forest, combined with slow-motion photography and wire work, to visually create a beautiful and romantic atmosphere for this human-ghost romance.
 
     “City On Fire” (1987) tells the story of an undercover cop played by Chow Yun-fat who infiltrates a criminal gang and, in the process, develops a subtle bond of mutual respect with a gangster, played by Danny Lee. The film was directed by Ringo Lam, who, determined to innovate, clicked perfectly with Andrew Lau’s unconventional approach to cinematography. From street shoots that tested their improvisation skills and extensive handheld camera work, to capturing colourful neon lights on high-speed film, Andrew Lau used his technique and sheer grit to inject a raw, urban vitality into the film.
 
     Directed by Wong Kar-wai, “As Tears Go By” (1988) tells the story of triad member Wah, played by Andy Lau, who, in order to save his sworn brother Fly, played by Jacky Cheung, is ultimately unable to end up with Ngor, played by Maggie Cheung. As cinematographer, Andrew Lau employed a more mature style and more layered imagery, capturing vividly the atmosphere of killing amid the city’s neon lights, and the tranquil and romantic moments shared by Wah and Ngor away from the chaos of the outside world.
 
     Directed by Andrew Lau, “Young and Dangerous 3” (1996) is the third instalment in the film franchise. While the central plot revolves around triad rivalries, as the protagonist Chan Ho-nam inherits the territory of his predecessor, the story deliberately weaves in moral parables, reaffirming values such as respect for hierarchy and the triad codes of honour. Andrew Lau demonstrated highly efficient on-set direction when making the third instalment, deftly managing large group scenes and the dramatic tension of major set pieces at the same time, showing that his directorial skills had reached a high level of maturity.  
 
     Adapted from a comic series, “The Stormriders” (1998) chronicles the grievances and ultimate showdown between Wind, played by Ekin Cheng, Cloud, played by Aaron Kwok, and their master Lord Conqueror. The film marked Andrew Lau’s first use of computer-generated imagery as a director. While exploring the technology, he repeatedly discussed character and scene designs with animation technicians, personally handling every detail. Drawing on his deep experience as a cinematographer, Andrew Lau successfully used computer-generated imagery to elevate the visuals of the original comic, establishing an important milestone for Hong Kong special-effects cinema.

     Tickets priced at $60 will be available from August 7 (Friday) at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. For programme details, please call 2739 2139 or visit the HKFA website at www.filmarchive.gov.hk/en/web/hkfa/2026/andrew-lau-wai-keung/pe-event-2026-andrew-lau-wai-keung.html.