Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source:

February 12, 2025 
No. 037Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a welcome luncheon on February 12 for a delegation from the Kingdom of Eswatini led by Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla. He thanked Eswatini for its staunch commitment to diplomatic alliance with Taiwan and for its firm support for Taiwan’s international participation over the years.
 
In his remarks at the event, Minister Lin also spoke about the heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in Eswatini that had seriously impacted the lives of people in some areas. He extended sympathies to those affected and recounted President Lai Ching-te’s instruction that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) must do its utmost to assist in the Eswatini government’s relief efforts and increase food donations so that the disaster victims could resume normal life as early as possible. 
 
Commenting on the close bilateral cooperation across various domains, Minister Lin stated that the strategic oil reserve project currently underway in Eswatini was the largest infrastructure project by the two countries since the establishment of diplomatic ties. He added that Taiwan and Eswatini had steadily strengthened collaboration in such areas as energy, agriculture, education, gender equality, and women’s empowerment. He noted that among the joint projects, the Women’s Business Start-Up Microfinance Revolving Fund established in 2023 with assistance from the Taiwan government had effectively provided start-up capital to female entrepreneurs in rural areas of Eswatini. Minister Lin affirmed that more than 500 women had benefited from the program and that a beneficiary family had named their newborn daughter Taiwan out of gratitude, highlighting the positive impact of the friendship between Taiwan and Eswatini on the people’s well-being. He further expressed that such developments were inspiring.
 
During the luncheon, Deputy Prime Minister Dladla thanked Taiwan for assisting in the national development of Eswatini. She reiterated that Eswatini would not falter in its support for Taiwan under any external pressure; that it would stand by Taiwan in the face of all challenges; and that it would continue to uphold Taiwan’s right to participate in all international organizations, including the United Nations. 
 
Deputy Prime Minister Dladla emphasized that Taiwan and Eswatini enjoyed deep and extensive cooperation, having built a partnership as strong as family ties. As an example, she cited Taiwan’s prompt evacuation assistance to Eswatini expatriates in Ukraine when the Russia-Ukraine war erupted as testament to the genuine friendship between Taiwan and Eswatini.
 
The luncheon was also attended by Deputy Minister of Health and Welfare Lue Jen-der, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chihchung Wu, Superintendent of Taipei Medical University Hospital Shih Chun-ming, and Board Chairperson of the Garden of Hope Foundation Pan Ay-woan. Participants exchanged views on healthcare, education, and energy collaboration between Taiwan and Eswatini; the creation of social safety nets; protection of vulnerable groups; and other issues.
 
Eswatini established diplomatic relations with Taiwan immediately after it gained independence in 1968. MOFA will maintain close cooperation with the government of Eswatini to steadily promote the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, foster a reciprocal and mutually beneficial partnership, enhance the well-being of the peoples of Taiwan and Eswatini, and further consolidate bilateral ties. (E) 

Source:

Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Estonian defense industry delegation

Date：2025-02-05
Data Source：Department of European Affairs

No. 032 
February 5, 2025 

Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a welcome luncheon on February 4 for an Estonian defense industry delegation led by Chair of the Estonia-Taiwan Support Group of the Parliament of Estonia Kristo Enn Vaga. The delegation included senior parliamentarian Kalle Laanet—who previously served as minister of defense, minister of the interior, and minister of justice—as well as representatives of the defense industry. During the event, the two sides exchanged views on cooperation in defense industry innovation, whole-of-society resilience, the Russia-Ukraine war, and other issues. 
 
Minister Lin noted that Taiwan and Estonia had both experienced authoritarian rule and therefore greatly cherished their hard-won freedoms and democracy. Commenting on authoritarian expansionism in recent years, he pointed out that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, China’s recurrent military exercises in the waters around Taiwan, and frequent incidents of sabotage of underwater cables in the Baltic Sea and the waters off Taiwan underscored the importance of enhancing collaboration among democratic nations. Minister Lin also spoke about having led a delegation of the Taiwanese drone industry to Lithuania last November to demonstrate Taiwan’s determination to build democratic supply chains together with like-minded nations. He welcomed this visit by the Estonian defense industry delegation, which, he said, would open up additional areas for cooperation. 
 
Chair Vaga stated that the democratic community had realized that if like-minded partners did not work together to establish supply chains, national security could become susceptible to potential threats. Observing that Taiwan and Estonia were both the targets of massive daily disinformation attacks and that underwater cables serving each had recently been damaged, Chair Vaga urged the democratic community to become more united against all manner of threats and challenges. He also pledged to steadily promote relations between Taiwan and Estonia.
 
At the luncheon, Minister Lin thanked the representatives of Motex Healthcare and Taiwan Comfort Champ Manufacturing for their joint donation of 1.11 million masks to Ukraine and Estonia during the Estonian delegation’s visit to Taiwan, adding that it highlighted the Taiwanese spirit of humanitarian assistance. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chihchung Wu witnessed the donation ceremony on behalf of Minister Lin. 
 
Deputy Minister Wu said that, since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, Taiwan had worked proactively with like-minded countries to support Ukraine. He stated that the Taipei Mission in the Republic of Latvia and the Estonian Centre for International Development had signed a partnership agreement last June, under which Taiwan would donate €1.1 million to support the construction of homes for orphans in Ukraine. Deputy Minister Wu expressed pleasure that Taiwanese companies had shown a commitment to corporate social responsibility and demonstrated that Taiwan could help and that Taiwan was helping. His views were echoed by Chairman of Motex Healthcare Y. C. Cheng and Chairman of Taiwan Comfort Champ Manufacturing Andy Chen, both of whom expressed a willingness to work with the government to assist Ukraine. (E)

Source:

As the Lunar New Year approaches, families gather around the dinner table, surrounded by the warmth of blessings and laughter. During this festive time, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI) reminds the public to pay attention to the safety of using “gas stoves” and “gas water heaters” (hereinafter referred to as “gas appliances”). Keeping good ventilation, making wise purchases, installing appliances properly, and scheduling regular inspections are essential steps to significantly reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and ensure a safe and joyful celebration.

To ensure the safe use of gas appliances, the BSMI urges the public to not only follow the user manuals and safety instructions, but also to pay particular attention to the following five points:
1.To purchase products bearing the compliance “mark” : the body of gas appliances must be affixed with the Commodity Inspection Mark (please see the attached graphic (Picture as attachment file) or (Picture as attachment file) ).

2.To choose the adequate “type” : the ventilation condition of the place where the appliance is to be installed and the type of gas (LPG, natural gas or liquefied natural gas) are important factors to make the right choice. Outdoor-type (RF) gas water heaters shall be installed outdoors with good ventilation. Indoor-type gas water heaters (such as FE and FF types) shall be installed with proper exhaust pipes.

3.To ensure “correct” installation: installation of gas appliances shall be done by a qualified technician, who shall install gas regulators and gas pipes that pass inspection of the BSMI.

4.To keep good “ventilation” : Hanging a large amount of clothes in the balcony where the gas water heater is installed could block ventilation. Never install an outdoor-type gas water heater indoor or in the balcony with windows. A forced exhaust type shall be used instead. If there is a gas leak during use, do not operate any electrical switches.

5.To schedule a regular “inspection” : gas appliances shall be inspected for their safety by a qualified technician or a technician from the original dealer/manufacturer on a regular basis. This is especially important for gas appliances that have been in use for over five years as aging parts increase the risk of accidents.

The BSMI urges the public to take extra precautions when using gas appliances, particularly during the colder months. Do not keep doors and windows tightly closed to keep out the cold, as inadequate ventilation can significantly increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Maintaining proper airflow in your home is essential to effectively prevent accidents and protect your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide.

Responsible Division: Inspection Administration Division
Contact Person: Cheng, Ching-Hong, Deputy Director
Tel. (O): +886-2343-1763
Email: ch.cheng@bsmi.gov.tw

Source:

According to the statistics, 2,221 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total amount of US$7,858,118,000 were approved from January to December 2024. This indicates a decrease of 3.85% in the number of cases, and a decrease of 30.18% in FDI amount compared to the same period of 2023.

With regard to inward investment from Mainland China, 36 cases were approved with an amount of US$297,223,000 from January to December 2024. This indicates an increase of 20% in the number of cases, and an increase of 901.04% in the FDI amount compared to the same period of 2023. From July 2009 to December 2024, 1,622 cases were approved with a total investment amount added up to US$2,893,168,000.

In terms of Taiwan’s outbound investment (excluding Mainland China), 782 projects were registered from January to December 2024 with a total amount of US$44,931,956,000, indicating an increase of 37.68% in the number of cases, and an increase of 90.57% in the amount, as compared to the same period of 2023.

As for Taiwan’s outward investment to Mainland China, 310 applications have been approved from January to December 2024, indicating a decrease of 5.49% compared to the same period of 2023. The approved investment amount is US$3,654,259,000, 20.33% more than the same period in 2023.

Source:

As Taiwan advances its energy conservation and carbon reduction goals, the adoption of renewable energy sources like solar power is on the rise. With this shift, lithium battery-based energy storage systems are becoming increasingly common in homes and communities. To safeguard consumer safety and ensure product reliability, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology, and Inspection (BSMI) announced on December 20, 2024, that “Residential Lithium Battery Energy Storage Appliances” and their associated “Power Conversion Systems” will be subject to mandatory inspection. This proactive measure underscores the BSMI’s commitment to protecting consumers by addressing the potential risks associated with these emerging technologies.

Lithium battery appliances, while critical to renewable energy solutions, carry higher safety risks if not properly designed or manufactured. Substandard products can lead to thermal runaway incidents, posing significant dangers to users. To address these concerns, the BSMI convened three briefing sessions with industry associations and manufacturers, receiving no objections to the proposed regulations. The new requirements mandate compliance with standards for electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility, grid connection safety, and, notably, thermal runaway propagation resistance. These measures aim to ensure that lithium batteries can withstand potential thermal events, significantly reducing risks.

The inspection requirements apply to “Residential lithium Battery Energy Storage Appliances” with a battery capacity of up to 20 kWh, and “Power Conversion Systems” with a capacity of up to 20 kW, including devices designed for bidirectional power transfer or integration with solar power systems. Starting July 1, 2026, these products must successfully complete the inspection process before being imported or released from production premises. Companies can apply for Registration of Product Certification upon announcement of the notice of adoption. Products that are certified will be permitted to display the “Commodity Inspection Mark” (example attached) before the official implementation date.

The BSMI urges companies to ensure the safety of products and correctness of labeling so as to protect consumer right and safety. On the other hand, consumers should only buy products bearing the Commodity Inspection Mark to guarantee safety and compliance. Moreover, the products should always be installed by a qualified electrical contractor approved by the companies.

For more information on the new regulations and inspection requirements, please visit the BSMI website at www.bsmi.gov.tw or contact the toll-free number at 0800-007123.

Responsible Division: Inspection Administration Division
Contact Person: Cheng, Ching-Hong, Deputy Director
Tel. (O):+886-2343-1763
Email:ch.cheng@bsmi.gov.tw

Source:

The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) convened the 3rd meeting of the Electricity Tariff Examination Council (the Council) on November 19, 2024. During the meeting, the Council applied “The Calculation Formula for Electricity Transmission and Distribution Tariff (the Formula)” to review costs associated with electricity transmission and distribution enterprises. Based on their review, the Council finalized the “electricity transmission and distribution tariffs” for 2025. These tariffs primarily cover power grid usage fees for green energy wheeling and direct supply by renewable energy enterprises, as well as self-use power generation equipment transmitting power for self-use. Electricity tariffs for the general public are unaffected. The Council also reviewed grid connection fees and examined the industrial classification adjustments for electricity tariffs implemented in October 2024.

The MOEA explained that, in accordance with the Formula, the “tariffs for electricity transmission and distribution enterprises” include: the average rate of ancillary service tariff, which reflects the adoption of energy storage systems, pumped-storage hydropower, and other quick-start and quick-stop resources to assist in stabilizing the power system; the average rate of electricity dispatch, which reflects the transmission loss incurred during the process; and the average rates of wheeling transmission and distribution, which reflect the shared costs of power lines and substations used during the electricity transmission. In recent years, Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) has increased investments to strengthen power grid resilience, leading to higher depreciation and maintenance costs. These four tariffs are reviewed and adjusted annually. During the Council meeting, members thoroughly discussed the cost data submitted by Taipower and resolved to adjust the total average rate from 0.7210 NTD/kWh to 0.8465 NTD/kWh. For the direct and wheeling supply of renewable energy with zero carbon emission, the total average rate is set at 0.2658 NTD/kWh. These rates will take effect from January 1 to December 31, 2025.

Regarding connection rates from 2025 to 2027, the MOEA stated that the majority of such tariffs are one-time charges for newly-built residences applying for electricity, or industry applying for higher power usage when expanding production capacity, thus, in order to reduce impacts on people’s livelihoods, the Meter Rate Lighting Service and Low Voltage Power Service users’ rates will remain unchanged, while the rates for High Voltage and Extra High Voltage users will be increased by 45%. This will result in an average increase of 24%. Users that receive impact will primarily be newly-built factories. The connection rates adjustments will come into effect on January 1st, 2025, and the costs not reflected will be discussed in the Council’s next annual meeting.

The MOEA stated that, for the October 2024 industrial classification adjustments for electricity tariffs, this meeting of the Council considered people’s livelihoods, and public interests, and thus determined the rate freeze on electricity tariffs increases for hospitals, clinics, and the hospitality industry in Hualien. The Council considered factors such as the relevance to the hospital and clinic industry and the consistency of the Hualien-Taitung region, and resolved to Electricity tariffs freeze for the Other Healthcare Industry (industry code 869) and that for the hospitality industry in Taitung. The rate freezes apply retroactively from October 16, 2024, onwards.

For full information disclosure, the MOEA will publish all the information discussed during the meeting on the website within 2 weeks from Nov. 19, including the meeting minutes, discussion materials, and information of Taipower’s costs. Starting from December 3rd, the public can access the Electricity Tariff website (https://www3.moeaea.gov.tw/ele102/; Chinese only) from the MOEA or Energy Administration’s main websites, to learn more about the information on the Council meeting and Taipower’s costs.

Spokesperson: Deputy Director General, Chun-Li Lee
Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Phone Numbers: (02) 2775-7700
Mobile: 0936-250-838
Email: chunlee@moeaea.gov.tw

Business Contact: Director, Ching-Sheng Chen
Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Phone Numbers: (02) 2775-7753
Mobile: 0983-499-890
Email: cschen@moeaea.gov.tw

Source:

In response to the growing popularity of rechargeable household appliances powered via USB connections, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology, and Inspection (BSMI) has expanded its safety inspection scope. On December 12, 2024, BSMI announced the proposal for inclusion of seven additional rechargeable items under mandatory inspection requirements to safeguard consumer rights. These items include: “Electric insect killers (including insect swatters),” “electric blankets,” “Electro-thermic warmers for personal use,” “Electric mattresses,” “Coffee mills/Coffee bean grinders,” “Electric shavers,” and “Electric hair clippers,”

This move follows growing concerns about the safety of lithium batteries in rechargeable appliances, prompted by recent incidents involving lithium battery fires. BSMI’s enhanced inspection protocols aim to address these concerns by introducing rigorous testing measures, including mandatory 168-hour charging tests for electrical products, mandatory discharging tests (battery installed in reverse), external short circuit tests for lithium batteries, drop tests, and other simulations to assess potential hazards.

In 2023, BSMI included seven commonly used rechargeable appliances, such as rechargeable fans, in its inspection program. This year, it intends to extend its focus to another seven high-demand items, including electric insect killers and electric hair clippers. This proactive approach underscores BSMI’s commitment to ensuring the safety and reliability of rechargeable products on the market. Manufacturers can begin the inspection process for the newly included items when the proposal is adopted. Products that successfully pass inspection will receive a “Commodity Inspection Mark” (see example attached), which can be displayed to assure consumers of their safety. The proposed implementation date for this measure is July 1, 2026. From that date onward, only products that have successfully completed the inspection process will be allowed for sale.

BSMI urges manufacturers to ensure the safety of their products and the accuracy of their labels to protect consumer rights. At the same time, it also reminds consumers to look for the “Commodity Inspection Mark” when purchasing rechargeable household appliances, as it signifies compliance with stringent safety standards.

For detailed information on the proposal, please visit the BSMI website (https://www.bsmi.gov.tw/wSite/mp?mp=2) under the “News” section, in “Regulatory Updates” > “Announcements of Adoption.”

Responsible Division: Inspection Administration Division
Contact Person: Cheng, Ching-Hong, Deputy Director
Tel. (O): +886-2343-1763
Email:ch.cheng@bsmi.gov.tw

Source:

The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) handled the environmental impact assessment of the New Materials Circular-Industrial Park establishment plan, which was made public online in October 2014. A second-phase public briefing session was held on December 27, 2024. The Minister of MOEA, Kuo Jyh-Huei, Deputy Minister, Ho Chin-Jsang, Legislator Lai Jui-Lung, and the Deputy Secretary-General of Kaohsiung City Government, Wang Chi-Chuan attended the briefing session, engaging with public concerns. The formal EIA process will proceed, aiming for the park’s final approval by the end of 2026.
The Minister of MOEA, Kou Jyh-Huei, said that the “New Materials Circular-Industrial Park” is a critical part of industrial transformation and concrete practice for the country to move towards sustainable development in the future. The initiative aims to create a model circular economy park that fosters regional economic prosperity while harmonizing development and ecological preservation. Achieving these goals requires collaboration between central and local governments and societal consensus.
Regarding the CPC Corporation’s Zhouji LNG Terminal Project and its long-term gas pipeline segment, MOEA will coordinate the park’s establishment process with CPC, ensuring the Dalinpu relocation timeline is considered to minimize impacts on residents’ lives and health. The MOEA will also communicate closely with the Ministry of Environment and the Kaohsiung City Government to expedite the park’s development.
Aligning with the Kaohsiung City Government’s relocation survey results, the MOEA is expediting the park’s establishment while collaborating with the Kaohsiung City Government and local units to resolve community concerns. This initiative will advance industrial innovation in Kaohsiung while preserving the region’s environmental quality.

Spokesman: Tseng, Chu-Fen (Deputy Director General, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-2-26558300 ext 9602, 0932556565
Email: cftseng@bip.gov.tw

Contact Person: Lin, Yi-Wun (Taipei Office, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-2-265-58300 ext 9501
Email: ywlin1@bip.gov.tw

Source:

In response to the growing global market demand, to enhance the global supply capacity of products and to strengthen Taiwan’s position as a key production hub for the Nitto Group in the Asia-Pacific region, Taiwan Nitto Denko Corporation has invested NT$4.483 billion in renovating outdated factory facilities within the Kaohsiung Cianjhen Technology Industrial Park. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on December 4, 2024, to a new factory, which includes a basement level and five above-ground levels for manufacturing, R&D, and administrative purposes. The new factory will cover a leased area of 10,214 square meters and will integrate existing facilities within the park to optimize operational and production efficiency.
Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs, Ho Chin-Tsang, emphasized that since its establishment in the Kaohsiung Export Processing Zone in 1969, Taiwan Nitto Denko Corporation has not only provided high-quality products and services to its customers but also created numerous job opportunities, contributing significantly to Taiwan’s economy. The additional investment underscores the company’s unwavering support for Taiwan. Deputy Minister Ho highlighted in addition to providing PVC tapes to the global semiconductor and automotive industries, Nitto Denko Corporation has strong technology research and development and patent capabilities, which could help facilitate Taiwan’s technological advancement. The new factory investment reflects the complementary relationship and mutual support between Taiwan and Japan in the semiconductor industry. Taiwan, Japan’s fourth-largest trade partner, recorded a trade value of USD 75.769 billion in 2023, demonstrating the robust industrial collaboration between the two countries. Under geopolitics, Taiwan plays a pivotal role in the development of the global semiconductor industry and the reorganization of the supply chain. The government encourages both Taiwanese and foreign enterprises to continue investing in Taiwan, leveraging its industrial advantages to expand into international markets and solidify Taiwan’s position on the global stage.
Taiwan Nitto Denko Corporation specializes in the production of high-performance PVC tapes and adhesive tapes for electronic components. With the steady rise in demand for electric vehicles and electronic products, the market for electrical insulation tapes continues to grow. The company is committed to improving product performance to meet market changes and maintain global leadership. In addition to PVC tapes, the company actively produces adhesive tapes for semiconductor manufacturing. Notable products include REVALPHA heat-release tape, which bonds strongly at room temperature and peels off easily upon heating. It is an ideal material to promote automated production and save manpower. Another innovative product, TEMISH acoustic membranes, features high breathability while effectively preventing moisture and dust ingress, making it ideal for electronic device protection.
The Bureau of Industrial Parks (BIPs) noted that Taiwan Nitto Denko Corporation’s new Kaohsiung factory symbolizes a milestone in its technological advancement and demonstrates its long-term commitment to Cianjhen Technology Industrial Park. The new factory will primarily produce PVC and electronic component adhesive tapes, enhancing Taiwan’s competitiveness in the global supply chain, driving regional economic growth, and boosting the development of Kaohsiung’s tech industries.

Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw

Contact Person: Yang, Hui-Ling (Kaohsiung-Pingtung Branch, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-7-8239313
Email: ling@bip.gov.tw

Source:

With the Lunar New Year around the corner, people are crowding traditional markets and Lunar New Year Fairs to purchase fresh produce for a nine-day vacation, one of the three most important family-gathering events in Taiwan. In anticipation of these heightened activities, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI) has initiated a nationwide inspection project to ensure the accuracy of weighing scales used in transactions. By safeguarding the integrity of these instruments, BSMI helps protect consumers’ rights, ensuring they receive fair value for their purchases and enhancing trust in the marketplace during this important festival.

The results of this comprehensive inspection show a compliance rate of 99.9%. Out of the 6,783 scales inspected across 142 food retailing spots, including traditional markets, supermarkets, and hypermarkets in various cities, only two scales failed to pass the inspection. The non-compliant scales were immediately labeled “Suspended” and are subject to follow-up monitoring. Vendors using the failed scales face fines ranging from NT$15,000 to NT$75,000 under the “Weights and Measures Act” if they continue their use.

The BSMI emphasized its commitment to ongoing vigilance by conducting year-round inspection projects to monitor the accuracy of weighing scales in transactions. Consumers are encouraged to report any scales that do not bear the verification mark [Picture as attachment file] or those they suspect of being inaccurate. Reports can be made by calling the BSMI at 02-23434567. Investigations will be carried out to protect the interests of both buyers and sellers, ensuring a fair and reliable marketplace.

This initiative made by the BSMI not only safeguards consumer rights but also promotes trust and transparency in the market during this significant cultural celebration.

Responsible Division: Metrology Technology Division
Contact Person: Chen, Horng-Lin, Deputy Director
Telephone No.: +886-2343-4585
Email: hl.chen@bsmi.gov.tw