Strong Earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan: President Lai Calls for Industry Donations and Confirms Taiwan's Search and Rescue Team is Ready

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto, Japan, prompting President Lai Qingde to address the public during his attendance at the '2026 Taiwan Culinary Expo Opening Ceremony' on the 31st. He stated that Taiwan and Japan have always supported each other during natural disasters, and Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already established a donation account. President Lai encouraged industries, businesses, and citizens to contribute generously.

Lai emphasized that Taiwan has received significant care and aid from Japan during past disasters, and now, as Japan faces hardship, Taiwan stands ready to reciprocate. This mutual assistance reflects the deep, enduring friendship between Taiwan and Japan, strengthened in times of crisis.

He noted that during previous earthquakes in Taiwan, Japan provided substantial support, and Taiwan responded similarly when Japan was affected. He reaffirmed that both nations consistently assist each other during calamities. Not only himself, but also Vice President萧美琴, Premier卓荣泰, and Vice Premier郑丽文 will personally donate NT$200,000. Many county and city mayors have also expressed their willingness to contribute.

President Lai called on the industrial and business sectors, as well as fellow citizens, to respond collectively within their means, uniting Taiwan's compassion to help Kumamoto's victims overcome this crisis. The Ministry of the Interior has coordinated with all county and city governments to complete preparations. Taiwan's search and rescue team is ready to deploy immediately upon Japan's request, demonstrating Taiwan's strong support for Japan during this earthquake.