Hello, everyone. Welcome to the headline news!
As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, the National Immigration Agency urges new immigrants not to bring meat products into Taiwan to prevent African Swine Fever.
The Ministry of Labor takes multiple measures to build a friendly workplace and support women in balancing work and family.
Wearing wooden clogs and enjoying wild amaranth, the Dragon Boat Festival celebration in Nantun kicks off with great excitement.
The hydrangea season at Zhuzihu is in full bloom—step into a sea of colorful flowers and explore the charity market.
Let’s take a look at the following report.
With the Dragon Boat Festival approaching, the National Immigration Agency urges new immigrants not to bring meat products into Taiwan to prevent African Swine Fever.
Currently, 74 countries around the world are affected by African Swine Fever. Taiwan and Japan are the only two countries in Asia that have not yet experienced an outbreak. The agency reminds new immigrants and migrant workers not to carry or mail meat products from their home countries during the festival. They should also avoid taking meat meals on airplanes or cruise ships, as doing so may result in penalties. So far this year, there have been 53 violations, mostly involving tourists or those visiting relatives. One traveler was even denied entry for bringing a ham sandwich off a ship. The agency urges travelers to dispose of any meat products in designated bins and not attempt to bypass inspections, as violators may face fines of up to NT$1 million. Let's work together to protect Taiwan’s livestock industry.
Creating a Friendly Workplace: Ministry of Labor Helps Women Balance Work and Family
To help working women balance their careers and family life, the Ministry of Labor continues to promote several women-friendly employment policies, including parental leave allowances, childcare subsidies, gender equality protections, and re-employment support. Regarding childbirth, labor insurance provides two months of benefits, with additional payments for multiple births. Maternity and paternity leave have been extended from 5 to 7 days, with subsidies available for the extended portion. Under the Gender Equality in Employment Act, both parents can take unpaid parental leave simultaneously, which also applies to same-sex couples. Up to six months of allowances and subsidies are available during this period. In terms of childcare, the government has increased subsidies for childcare facilities and home-based care, and offers consultation services for companies establishing childcare setups. Additionally, the Ministry has strengthened sexual harassment prevention and maternal health protection, and promotes measures to support women’s re-employment and entrepreneurship, enabling women to confidently develop their careers at every stage.
Clogs and Herb Soup: Festive Dragon Boat Celebration Lights Up Nantun
Taichung’s most distinctive Dragon Boat Festival event, the "2025 Nantun Clog-Wearing Carp Jump Parade," will take place on May 31. The celebration spans the square in front of Wanhe Temple and the surrounding old streets in Nantun District. People are invited to wear traditional wooden clogs, enjoy sticky rice dumplings with herb soup, and experience the lively Taiwanese festive spirit. Blending a century-old tradition with innovative elements, the event features performances by the CTBC Brothers cheerleading squad and international troupes. Family-friendly activities include egg-balancing, four-person clog-walking, and fun competitions. Over 2,000 servings of Taiwanese snacks and limited-edition gifts will be offered on-site. Attendees can also join a raffle to win prizes like a 70-inch LCD TV. The Nantun District Office hopes this vibrant and cultural event will bring everyone together to joyfully celebrate the festival and welcome good fortune.
Zhuzihu Hydrangea Festival Begins: Step into a Dreamy Floral Wonderland and Charity Market
As the calla lily season ends, vibrant hydrangeas quietly bloom in Zhuzihu. The 2025 Zhuzihu Hydrangea Festival runs from May 23 to June 22, inviting visitors to step into Yangmingshan’s mountain forests for a perfect day of flower viewing and photography. This year, eight local farms have teamed up to create an “Instagram Hotspot Floral Art Exhibition,” combining natural fields and artistic installations for dreamy photo ops. From May 31 to June 1, the limited-time “Ba-Dao Grandma’s Market” will feature local agricultural creations, family-friendly DIY activities, and charity sales. There will also be free instant photo prints and egg waffle giveaways for those who fill out a survey — quantities limited daily. This summer, visit Zhuzihu to enjoy hydrangeas, savor local delicacies, and experience handmade fun while creating your most beautiful summer memories!
