作者： ellen

Results Summary- Total revenue increased by 8% to HK$2,800 million, among which the revenue from Hong Kong increased by 9% to HK$1,600 million while the revenue from Mainland China increased by 9% to HK$700 million – both markets recorded growths- Revenue from the jewellery segment increased markedly by 13% to HK$1,100 million, among which gold products accounted for over 75% of the revenue from the jewellery segment- Gross profit rose by 8% to HK$800 million; gross profit margin remained resilient at 30.1%- Adjusted EBITD1 increased to HK$300 million and net profit rose by 5% to HK$200 million- As at 30 June 2025, bank balances and cash on hand amounted to over HK$1,500 million (31 December 2024: HK$950 million), without any bank borrowings and was in a net cash position, hence its net gearing ratio was zero, indicating a very healthy financial position- Successfully partnered with Mr. Chan Sai Cheong, strives to expand the jewellery business in Mainland China under “Emperor Jewellery”, and has already drawn up a preliminary roadmap for store expansions, with an initial target of 600 stores in Mainland China in the next five years; enables the jewellery business to become its future growth driver under the solid foundation of its watch business- Opened a Patek Philippe flagship store at a prime location in Central, Hong Kong, strengthening its market positionHONG KONG, Aug 20, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Emperor Watch & Jewellery Limited (“Group” or “Emperor W&J”) (Stock code: 887), a leading retailer of European-made watches and jewellery products, announced its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2025 (“Period”).In spite of market uncertainties and challenging business environment, the Group’s total revenue grew by 7.6% to HK$2,794 million (2024: HK$2,597 million) during the Period. Revenue from Hong Kong increased by 8.8% to HK$1,594 million (2024: HK$1,465 million), accounting for 57.1% (2024: 56.4%) of the total revenue, and the revenue from Mainland China increased by 8.7% to HK$723 million (2024: HK$665 million), accounting for 25.9% (2024: 25.6%) of the total revenue. In terms of revenue by product segment, the revenue from the watch segment increased by 4.2% to HK$1,700 million (2024: HK$1,632 million), accounting for 60.8% (2024: 62.8%) of the total revenue, and the revenue from the jewellery segment increased markedly by 13.4% to HK$1,094 million (2024: HK$965 million), accounting for 39.2% (2024: 37.2%) of the total revenue, among which gold products accounted for 75.2% (2024: 77.0%) of the revenue from the jewellery segment.The Group’s gross profit increased by 7.7% to HK$840 million (2024: HK$780 million) with gross profit margin remained resilient at 30.1% (2024: 30.0%). The Group’s net profit increased by 4.9% to HK$194 million (2024: HK$185 million) during the Period. Basic earnings per share was HK2.73 cents (2024: HK2.72 cents). The Board declares an interim dividend of HK0.55 cent (2024: HK0.65 cent) per share.As at 30 June 2025, bank balances and cash on hand of the Group amounted to HK$1,508 million (31 December 2024: HK$950 million), without any bank borrowings (31 December 2024: zero) and was in a net cash position, hence its net gearing ratio was zero (31 December 2024: zero), indicating a healthy financial position.During the Period, the Group successfully partnered with Mr. Chan Sai Cheong (“Mr. Chan”), an influential and highly respected jewellery industry veteran with over 40 years of experience, regarding strategic development of the Group’s jewellery business in Mainland China. The Group has drawn up a preliminary roadmap for store expansions in Mainland China, with an initial target of 600 stores in the next five years, opening in phases. During the first phase, the focus will be on opening stores targeting mid-to-high-end market segments in established first-tier and new first-tier cities; this will be followed by an emphasis on stores in second-tier cities, targeting mid-market segment.As at 30 June 2025, the Group had a total of 73 stores in Hong Kong, Macau, Mainland China, Singapore and Malaysia. During the Period, the Group opened two new jewellery stores, in Hong Kong and Macau. Additionally, a Patek Philippe flagship store and a Tudor watch boutique were opened in Hong Kong and Chongqing in Mainland China, respectively. Subsequent to the Period, the Group opened a jewellery store in Hangzhou, Mainland China.Ms. Cindy Yeung, Chairperson of Emperor W&J, said, “With the ongoing pick-up in foot traffic after the resumption of the multiple-entry Individual Visit Scheme for Shenzhen permanent residents, and the tourism blueprint launched by the Hong Kong government, the Group is confident that the overall retail market will further regain its growth momentum. The Patek Philippe flagship store that was recently opened by the Group in Hong Kong will further enhance the Group’s competitive edge in the luxury watch retail market and strengthens its market leading position.”Ms. Yeung concluded, “The Group expects that gold jewellery, as an alternative form of investment, will continue being well received by Chinese consumers, given the volatile property and stock markets. The Group considers the establishment of the strategic partnership with Mr. Chan is a valuable opportunity for expanding its jewellery business in Mainland China. We will effectively expand its retail network footprint with diversified market segmentation strategies, thereby capturing a substantial share of the enormous opportunities in the Mainland China market.”Financial Highlights For the six months ended 30 JuneChanges2024HK$ million2025HK$ millionTotal revenue2,5972,794+ 7.6%Gross profit780840+ 7.7%Gross profit margin30.0%30.1%+ 0.1ppAdjusted EBITD [1]282297+ 5.3%Net profit185194+ 4.9%Basic earnings per shareHK2.72 centsHK2.73 cents+ 0.4%[1] Adjusted EBITD represents earnings before interest, tax and depreciation charge on the self-owned flagship store, which reflects the Group’s core operating performanceAbout Emperor Watch & Jewellery LimitedWith long establishment history of over 80 years in Hong Kong since 1942, Emperor W&J (887.HK) is a leading retailer principally engages in the sale of European-made internationally renowned watches, and jewellery products under its own brand, “Emperor Jewellery”. Through its comprehensive watch dealership, unique marketing campaigns and extensive retail network at prime locations in Hong Kong, Macau, Mainland China, Singapore and Malaysia, Emperor W&J established a strong brand image amongst its target customers ranging from middle to high income groups worldwide. In recognition of its efforts in investor relations communications, Emperor W&J was granted with “Best IR Company” (Small Cap), “Best IR Team” (Small Cap) and “Best Investor Presentation Material” (Small cap) in HKIRA Investor Relations Awards 2025 by the Hong Kong Investor Relations Association. For more information, please visit its website: www.EmperorWatchJewellery.com.Investor/Media EnquiriesAnna LukGroup Investor Relations DirectorTel: +852 2835 6783Email: annaluk@emperorgroup.comJanice AuGroup Investor Relations ManagerTel: +852 2835 6799Email: janiceau@emperorgroup.com Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Japan, August 20, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda) today announced the recent establishment of a new company in India, Honda Finance India Private Ltd., (“Honda Finance India”) that will offer customers retail sales financing services including loans and lease sales options for Honda products in India.In India, where further growth of the motorcycle and automobile markets is expected, the number of customers using loans to purchase motorcycles and cars is also expected to increase. Until now, retail sales financing services in the Indian market have mainly been provided by local financial institutions. However, in light of market trends, Honda will further strengthen its business in India by offering its own sales financing services through a local subsidiary in India.Honda Finance India Private Ltd. will apply for a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) license to conduct financial services business in India. After obtaining the license, the company will begin offering retail sales financing services to help customers finance their purchase of motorcycles, automobiles and services provided by Honda.Financial services business has been one of the main business areas of Honda, and the company has established local subsidiaries specializing in retail sales financing services in Japan and various countries in key regions such as North America, and Europe. With the establishment of the new company, India became the ninth country where Honda has a local subsidiary to offer financial services. Honda will work to establish long-term relationships with customers by offering flexible financial services tailored to the specific needs of customers in each region. Moreover, in anticipation of the global expansion of software-defined vehicle (SDV) sales in the future, Honda is looking into opportunities to offer new financial services designed to increase customer satisfaction and the value of the customer experience using various data from Honda SDVs. With such new services, Honda will further strengthen its financial services business not only in India but across the globe.  About the new companyName of the company:Honda Finance India Private Ltd.Established:August 1, 2025Location:Gurugram District, Haryana, IndiaCapital:280 million Indian rupee (INR)Capitalization ratio:100% Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Representative:Kei Yamada, President Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO & JAKARTA, Aug 20, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. (BNI) and PT JCB International Indonesia, a subsidiary of JCB International Co. Ltd., (JCB) proudly announce the launch of the BNI JCB Corporate Card in Indonesia. This premium credit card is thoughtfully designed to meet the diverse needs of Japanese corporations operating in Indonesia, supporting both their business operations and collaborations with local partners.Unveiled during BNI wondrX 2025, the card features an exclusive design inspired by the Tokyo cityscape. The launch event was attended by prominent figures including Masaki Yokawa, President & CEO of JCB International Co. Ltd.; Corina Leyla Karnalies, Consumer Banking Director of BNI; Abu Santosa Sudrajat, Treasury & International Banking Director of BNI; Rian Eriana Kaslan, Network & Retail Funding Director of BNI; and other board members.Masaki Yokawa, President & CEO of JCB International Co. Ltd., said: “The launch of our first corporate card product in Indonesia represents a significant milestone for JCB, as we aim to support the diverse business needs of Japanese companies and their local partners in the market. It also underscores our commitment to serving as a bridge between Japanese and Indonesian businesses, fostering stronger partnerships and enabling mutual growth through our financial services”.Corina Leyla Karnalies, Consumer Banking Director of BNI, added: “In line with the spirit of Be With You Every Step of the Way, corporate cardholders can enjoy various rewards that support their active and productive business activities, including complimentary access to executive lounge at five airports in Indonesia, green fee cashback at selected golf clubs, as well as special dining benefits at selected Japanese restaurants. Additional services include flexible credit limit adjustments, transaction notifications, 24/7 customer service, dedicated corporate PIC support, and assistance with corporate business travel needs through BNI TeleTravel.”As part of JCB's commitment to delivering valuable experiences for cardholders, particularly within the premium segment, BNI JCB Corporate cardholders also gain access to international airport lounges in Japan and other countries and territories. Additionally, they may enjoy exclusive benefits such as the Japan Dining Festival program in Indonesia. Looking ahead, JCB plans to introduce further programs and services designed to support the business growth of corporate cardholders.About BNI JCB Corporate CardThe card features a design inspired by the city of Tokyo, with a rising sun in the background symbolizing optimism and hope, reflecting a positive outlook for the future and a spirit of continuous growth.Companies can apply through the nearest BNI branch office, via the application link below, or a Relationship Manager via the Japan Desk.Application link: https://applycreditcard.bni.co.id/jcbcard?link_id=id_bni_jcbcard About JCBJCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 56 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 169 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: https://www.global.jcb/en/ContactAnna TakedaCorporate CommunicationsTel: +81-3-5778-8353Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Tokyo, Japan, August 20, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) — NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) today announced a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to strengthen collaborative development assistance in Africa, coinciding with the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). This will contribute to the aims of both parties to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through innovative and efficient technology-enabled assistance, particularly in the areas of agriculture and global health/nutrition.WFP Executive Director, Cindy McCain (left) and NEC Corporate Senior Executive Vice President and CGAO, Shigehiro Tanaka (right)WFP, established in 1961, is a humanitarian aid agency of the United Nations whose mission is to eradicate world hunger by providing emergency food aid and development assistance in response to natural disasters and conflicts. Its activities are financed by contributions from national governments and donations from private organizations and individuals, and in 2024 it delivered food to approximately 124 million people.In recent years, the number of those in need of assistance has been increasing due to issues that include international conflicts, disasters, and pandemics, which pose serious challenges to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). WFP is working globally to create a world without hunger, and in order to achieve this goal with limited resources, it is essential to capitalize on technology that enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of assistance.WFP and NEC have launched initiatives for the monitoring of farmland in Ethiopia and Zambia, using the agricultural ICT platform "CropScope" (*1), and also collaborated to improve maternal and child nutrition in Ghana through the use of a digital health checkup mobile application (*2).Now, through the conclusion of this MOC, the organizations will contribute to building a more resilient and inclusive society by strengthening their collaboration mainly in the fields of agriculture and global health/nutrition, enhancing the functionality of CropScope and the digital health checkup mobile application, and utilizing various technologies to ensure sustainable development and to achieve the SDGs in Africa.Moreover, NEC will participate in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) (*3) at Pacifico Yokohama in Yokohama, Japan, from August 20 (Wed.) to 22 (Fri.), 2025. During the event, NEC will hold seminars and exhibitions on agriculture and global health at the "TICAD Business Expo and Conference" and at the Japan Fair (*4)."We are pleased to strengthen our collaboration with WFP toward ensuring sustainable development in Africa. We are confident that, through this MOC, we can further create social value by co-creating with WFP and leveraging our expertise in technology."- Takayuki Morita, President and Chief Executive Officer, NEC(*1)Smart farming management | NEC(*2)Ajinomoto, Sysmex, and NEC improve maternal and child health and nutrition in Ghana: Press Releases | NEC(*3)The 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9)https://www.mofa.go.jp/region/africa/ticad/ticad9/index.html(*4)NEC to participate in "TICAD Business Expo and Conference" and thematic events for TICAD 9https://www.nec.com/en/press/202508/global_20250805_03.htmlAbout NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Aug 20, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - CENTRESTAGE, the annual gala event for the Asian fashion industry, takes place from 3 to 6 September 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Unveiling a grand celebration of style for its 10th anniversary edition, this year’s CENTRESTAGE sees a record participation of some 260 brands from 24 countries and regions. The programme features more than 40 events, including around 30 fashion shows and parades – another record for the event. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the four-day showcase is open to industry professionals and the public free of charge, welcoming visitors from Hong Kong, Mainland China and overseas to experience the charm and creativity of Asia’s fashion capital.Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “Over the past decade, CENTRESTAGE has become the perfect meeting point for fashion brands and designers from across the globe, and Asia in particular, to showcase their latest creations. As the event celebrates its 10th anniversary, we are truly privileged to welcome internationally acclaimed couturier Guo Pei to present a collection at CENTRESTAGE ELITES, marking her first solo couture show in Hong Kong. As the flagship fashion event for Asia, CENTRESTAGE not only celebrates virtuosity in design and craftsmanship, but also propels both local and international brands into the broader Asian market, supporting the vigorous development of the local fashion industry and reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a global fashion hub and world-class East-meets-West centre for cultural exchange.”This year’s CENTRESTAGE welcomes fashion brands from across the globe, including pavilions from the United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Japan and Thailand. The UK is participating for the first time as the "Partner Country" of CENTRESTAGE, showcasing unique creations from various British designers. Globally acclaimed fashion maestro Jimmy Choo will not only attend CENTRESTAGE in person but also spotlight his visionary initiative – the Jimmy Choo Academy – showcasing works by emerging designers nurtured by the Academy. The  Czechia pavilion will present personalised fashion labels that incorporate art-glass design; the Japan pavilion will spotlight emerging designers and brands, showcasing the creative force of Japan’s new generation; and the Thailand pavilion returns on an unprecedented scale, leading more than 40 brands to the show and expressing the rich diversity of Southeast Asian style. Brands from South Korea, Singapore and other countries will also exhibit their collections at the fair.CENTRESTAGE ELITES sees Guo Pei’s first solo couture show in Hong KongThe prestigious opening event, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, takes place on 1 September at M+ in the West Kowloon Cultural District, with internationally acclaimed couturier Guo Pei presenting her first solo couture show in Hong Kong. Guo Pei was the first Chinese designer invited to join the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM) while also consecutively presenting 10 showcase collections in Paris. She previously participated in HKTDC Hong Kong Fashion Week for Fall/Winter in 2010, closing the Hong Kong Fashion Extravaganza with a spectacular finale.For CENTRESTAGE ELITES, Guo will present 30 one-of-a-kind couture creations under the theme "Gilternity: An Everlasting Radiance", drawing inspiration from the dazzling, fleeting moment of flowing molten gold. Fusing traditional craftsmanship with modern art, the collection epitomises her unparalleled artistry and technical mastery. In a gesture that honours both tradition and innovation, Guo has invited students from Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) to collaborate on the opening piece for the show.This grand occasion will be livestreamed on the CENTRESTAGE website and Instagram, the HKTDC’s YouTube channel, Facebook and official pages, and across multiple platforms including ViuTV Facebook and Yahoo HK. On the second day of the event (4 September), Guo Pei will appear in person for a master sharing session, offering rare in-person insights into her creative journey and design philosophy.Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show celebrates designers’ creative journeyOn the evening of 3 September, the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show will take the stage under the theme "A Decade in Design: What is Seen' What is Felt'", exploring Hong Kong designers’ creative journeys. Four Hong Kong designer brands – ANGUS TSUI, ARTY:ACTIVE, IP AXIS INDUSTRIALSTUDIO and selfFab. – will showcase their innovative collections, merging visual impact and emotional narrative to spotlight the unique creativity of Hong Kong fashion design.Six thematic zones showcase sustainability and diversityCENTRESTAGE will be staged across six distinctive thematic zones, each offering its own unique appeal. The new Accessories Zone will present an array of fashion jewellery, handbags, footwear and other refined fashion accents, where style and function are seamlessly intertwined. The Athleisure Zone will champion activewear that unites aesthetics with practicality, reflecting the growing prominence of sports-inspired looks. The Craftsmanship Zone will showcase exquisite techniques and artisanal mastery that pay homage to heritage skills, while the Contemporary Zone will unveil forward‑thinking, avant‑garde creations from cutting‑edge designers. The Urban Zone will spotlight youth‑driven trends, including labels such as Petrolhead, helmed by artist Louis Cheung, which fuses motorcycle culture with a streetwear edge. Completing the lineup, the Circular Fashion Zone will advocate the possibilities presented by sustainable style, headlined by the 15th Redress Design Award Final at which the winning eco‑conscious collections will be showcased, promoting the industry’s focus on environmentally friendly design.The four-day fair will present a rich variety of happenings, including student showcases from PolyU’s School of Fashion and Textiles and the Hong Kong Design Institute, as well as an interdisciplinary exhibition from the Fashion Farm Foundation that combines music, art, product design and intangible cultural heritage, featuring traditional crafts such as gold-thread embroidery in bridal gowns and the making of Canton silk. A record-breaking total of 28 fashion shows will be held throughout CENTRESTAGE, featuring brands such as 112 mountainyam, CAMMIE CHAN CHEONGSAM, DorisKath, and KOWLOON CITY BOY that showcase the vibrant energy of the fashion industry.LOCAL POWER 2025, a cross-cultural project curated by Asian New Generation Creativity Design Association, will officially launch during CENTRESTAGE. This initiative will bring together designers from Hong Kong and Korea, presenting a thoughtfully curated exhibition and runway show that will help to foster cultural and creative exchanges between the two places. “THREAD OF CREATIVITY – Fashion Design Competition 2025" and Knitwear Innovation and Design Society Limited (KIDS) featuring the Young Knitwear Designers' Contest 2025 will also be held during the fair period.The HKTDC will continue to invite buyers from around the world to source at CENTRESTAGE, including major multi-brand stores such as WDLT 117 Apparel Inc. from Canada, Zalora from Indonesia, Sugar Srl from Italy and Hankyu Hanshin Department Stores from Japan.Spotlighting new talent at the YDCThe grand finale of CENTRESTAGE 2025 on Saturday, 6 September will be the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest (YDC), dedicated to discovering and nurturing new local talent. This year's competition will continue to promote a spirit of innovation and experimentation, allowing participants to fully showcase their creativity while injecting fresh talent into the industry. Charles Jeffrey, the designer behind the London label Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY, has been invited as guest judge, joining a panel of other industry professionals to select winners from the 10 finalists vying for four major awards: Champion, Excellence Award, Best Art Direction and My Favourite Collection. Members of the public are invited to participate by casting votes online (https://bit.ly/YDC2025_IG_Vote_Now) for their favourite collection. Designer brands JESSE LEE and gnastiy.com, both former participants in the YDC, will showcase their new season special collections alongside guest performers at this year's YDC finale.CENTRESTAGE will be staged in parallel with the HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TIME, with visitors able to view the latest products from some 400 watch and fashion brands at the same venue. The fairs will also feature the CENTRESTAGE x Watch & Clock Lucky Draw. The brand-new CENTRESTAGE Instagram account (@centrestage_hktdc) is now officially live and will be updated with the latest event information and fashion trends. Everyone is welcome to follow and stay closely connected with all the latest happenings at CENTRESTAGE.Photo download: https://bit.ly/47uYUFOSharing highlights of this year’s CENTRESTAGE at the August 18 press conference are Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC (second right); Katherine Fang, Chairman of the HKTDC Garment Advisory Committee (second left); Akoto Agyeman, Director of Trade & Investment, British Consulate-General Hong Kong (first right); and local fashion designer Angus Tsui (first left).The grand opening event, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, will be held on 1 September at M+ in the West Kowloon Cultural District. Internationally acclaimed couturier Guo Pei will present her first-ever couture show in Hong Kong. Her "Gilternity: An Everlasting Radiance" collection was previewed at today’s press conference.Akoto Agyeman, Director of Trade & Investment, British Consulate-General Hong Kong (left), and artist Marf Yau (right) wear creations from Patrick McDowell, a brand featuring at the UK Pavillion, at the CENTRESTAGE press conference.Websites- CENTRESTAGE: https://www.hktdc.com/event/centrestage/en- CENTRESTAGE ELITES: https://www.hktdc.com/event/centrestage/en/centrestage-elites- CENTRESTAGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centrestage_hktdc/?hl=en- Fashion Hong Kong: https://www.fashionhongkong.com.hk/en- Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC): www.fashionally.com/enMedia enquiriesBest Crew Public Relations & MarketingDiana Tang Tel: (852) 9199 6723 Email: diana.tang@bestcrewpr.comReni Kwok Tel: (852) 6291 4283 Email: reni.kwok@bestcrewpr.comHKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department:Sharon Ha Tel: (852) 2584 4575 Email: sharon.mt.ha@hktdc.orgKaty Wong Tel: (852) 2584 4524 Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgHKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout the HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan.CCIDA’s website: www.ccidahk.gov.hkDisclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, August 19th, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi High-Tech ("Hitachi High-Tech") is providing its MI Solutions using Materials Informatics ("MI") to the NOF Metal Coatings Group ("NOF"). We are working together to explore ways to improve the efficiency and sophistication of research and development operations. This has led to a more than 50% reduction in costs related to the number of experiments and time required, as well as to the discovery of new ideas that were difficult to achieve by our own know-how alone, thereby contributing to improved efficiency and sophistication in our research and development work.Background and OverviewNOF's high-performance thin layer coating technology is used to improve the durability and functionality of metals. NOF mainly develops and manufactures rust-proof materials that protect metals from rust, and provides them to a wide range of industries including the automotive and aviation industries, both in Japan and overseas. In recent years, there have been more and more demands regarding new value and product development, such as product safety and consideration for the environment. In addition, we have previously relied on the experience of experienced engineers for the advancement of research and development work, but as more experienced engineers are getting older and the number of young engineers increasing, we wanted to transform conventional methods and develop data-driven technologies in order to speed up our research and development process.Under these circumstances, Hitachi High-Tech provided its MI Solutions to NOF, aiming to accurately understand the current situation and identify key issues through repeated dialog, then provide continued support in solving these issues through MI and data analysis. As a result, NOF has managed to reduce the number and duration of experiments by more than 50% for research and development work of specific topics, compared to before using MI. They have also be enable to develop new ideas that could not be imagined using traditional methods, and have contributed to the development of more sophisticated and efficient products.The Specific Solution Offered by Hitachi High-TechMI, the core technology of Hitachi High-Tech's MI Solution, uses AI technology to predict physical properties and derive optimal conditions for manufacturing conditions and material blending ratios based on accumulated experimental data. Consulting support using MI and generative AI embodies the Lumada*1 3.0, which uses the Hitachi Group's domain knowledge and AI technology to transform data into value and resolve issues for customers and society.*1 Lumada: A collective term for solutions, services, and technologies based on Hitachi's advanced digital technologies for creating value from customers' data accelerating digital innovation.(1) Provision of a material data analysis environmentThey used Hitachi High-Tech's MI technology to analyze past study data for experimental candidates that can be expected to have the desired properties for development areas such as the anti-rust materials developed by NOF over many years. This led to a more than 50% reduction in costs related to the number of experiments and time required for specific research topics. It also led to new discoveries, which were difficult to achieve with conventional methods, demonstrating the effectiveness of data-driven development and contributing to the advancement of research and development.(2) Consulting support through customer successHitachi High-Tech directly provides customer support by data scientists and other people working on customer success at Hitachi High-Tech. This has enabled NOF to smoothly advance their use of MI even without in-house MI and data analysis experts. Also, by conducting thorough hearings with Hitachi High-Tech personnel, they were able to identify real issues in research and development work and propose appropriate approaches to resolve them, thereby improving efficiency and sophistication.Future OutlookHitachi High-Tech has been providing materials development solutions to a variety of domestic and overseas customers since 2021, focusing on materials and chemical manufacturers. NOF also has group companies overseas, and they are aiming to use MI technology at their overseas offices to further create value globally and increase adoption. The two companies will continue to work together to support the overseas expansion of NOF's use of MI technology, utilizing Hitachi High-Tech's expertise from providing solutions to a large number of customers. In addition, we will continue offering proposals and promoting collaborations aimed at improved efficiency and sophistication, such as further automation of research and development work, through seamless collaboration between MI and data generated from analysis equipment provided by Hitachi High-Tech, and through the use of AI technology and Hitachi Group assets.Going forward, Hitachi High-Tech will continue leveraging our capabilities of global frontline functions, domain knowledge, points of contact and technological capabilities to create solutions and business models that lead to solutions stemming from all forms of social issues, and to contribute to market growth in the industrial and social infrastructure fields.Related LinksMI Case study (NOF Metal Coatings)About MI SolutionsAbout Hitachi High-TechHitachi High-Tech provides cutting-edge technologies, products and services to society and customers with its corporate vision of "Changing the World and Future with the Power of Knowledge" to contribute to a sustainable global environment, healthy, safe and secure lives, and the sustained development of science and industry. We manufacture and sell clinical analyzers, biotechnology products and radiation therapy systems in the healthcare field, semiconductor manufacturing and inspection equipment in the semiconductor field, as well as analytical systems and electron microscopes used in environmental fields and materials research. We are also engaged in a wide range of business areas globally, providing high added-value solutions in battery, communication infrastructure, railway inspection, digital and other industrial and social infrastructure fields. We provide solutions through a deeper understanding of the issues facing society and our customers to contribute to realizing a sustainable society. The company's consolidated revenues for FY2024 were approx. JPY 756.5 billion. For further information, visit https://www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/en/Business ContactInformatics Promotion Dept.,Industrial & Social Infrastructure Business Group,Hitachi High-Tech CorporationInformatics.aj@hitachi-hightech.com  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Tokyo, Japan, August 19, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701), in collaboration with ClimateAi, a San Francisco-based startup that built the first climate resilience platform, has developed a conceptual model to estimate the effectiveness of climate change adaptation measures for cocoa and rice cultivation in Africa. In this project, ClimateAi’s long-term climate change forecasting technology, which models both the impact of climatic factors on agricultural production and the effectiveness of adaptation measures, was combined with NEC’s expertise in agricultural technology (agritech) to successfully quantify the impact of climate change on agriculture and clarify the return on investment for adaptation measures.This achievement will be showcased at the TICAD Business Expo & Conference (Japan Fair), one of the thematic events of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) to be held in Yokohama, Japan, in August 2025, conveying the significance of utilizing digital technology to address the challenges facing African agriculture (*1).Background and purposeGlobally, while greenhouse gas emission reductions and credit trading are actively being conducted to mitigate the effects of climate change, the implementation of adaptation measures to prevent or reduce damage caused by climate change has not yet progressed. This is due in part to the difficulties involved in assessing the investment cost-effectiveness of implementing adaptation measures.Notably, although the agricultural sector is an industry highly susceptible to climate change, estimating the return on investment for adaptation measures, such as the introduction of irrigation facilities or changes in crop varieties, has thus far proven difficult due to the wide range of factors affecting crop growth, including temperature, water, and soil.NEC and ClimateAi have developed a conceptual model that analyzes various factors affecting agricultural growth using AI and calculates the economic return on investment for adaptation measures. Utilizing this model enables the implementation of adaptation measures that focus on areas where positive effects are expected, promoting local agriculture efficiently and sustainably.OverviewThis newly developed conceptual model was used to analyze adaptation measures targeting the cultivation of cocoa and rice in various locations in Africa. Africa is the world’s largest cocoa producer, with agriculture being one of its major industries. However, due to the impacts of climate change, the cultivation environment for cocoa and rice is expected to change significantly in the coming decades. This initiative focused on the following three adaptation measures to examine their ability to maintain and enhance yields and create economic value in a changing climate.Introduction of irrigation facilitiesChanging to climate-adapted varietiesChanging of planting time for traditionally cultivated varietiesSome of the analysis results can be verified through interactive demonstrations. As an example of potential applications for this conceptual model, it is envisioned that international organizations and development banks providing local agricultural support will utilize it to explore farmland in recipient areas and estimate the effects of implementing adaptation measures.Beyond this example, the system is designed to cater to the needs of various stakeholders involved in agriculture, enabling them to make data-driven decisions.Results and future prospectsThe utilization of AI made it possible to analyze the cost-effectiveness of adaptation measures, such as the introduction of irrigation facilities and changes in cultivation varieties in rice farming across various regions, as well as effective adaptation strategies for cacao cultivation.Significant funding is required to advance climate change adaptation in agriculture. It has been pointed out that in addition to the need for financial support from international organizations, development banks, and governments, the mobilization of private investment is necessary. To provide continuous funding, it is essential to quantify the investment returns from adaptation measures and to conduct proper monitoring and intervention following their implementation.While exploring opportunities for collaborations with businesses that provide irrigation equipment and seedlings, NEC and ClimateAi aim to leverage digital technology use cases to promote financing for climate change adaptation and expand data-driven agritech businesses.Adaptation finance businessSupport for understanding risks to agricultural yields to reduce entry barriers for the private sector / Support for evaluating business feasibility for financingAgritech businessSupport for agricultural producers and managers of climate change adaptation / Support for climate change adaptation in the upstream (seed and agricultural material businesses) and downstream (processing businesses, etc.) of the agricultural supply chainOther businessSupport for climate change adaptation in the infrastructure industry and manufacturing supply chainsThe results of this initiative will be announced at the TICAD Business Expo & Conference (Japan Fair) and other events to gather feedback from the market and proceed with discussions toward commercialization. Going forward, NEC and ClimateAi will work together to scientifically assess the impact of climate change on agriculture and present concrete solutions to achieve sustainable agriculture and food security. Both companies will continue striving to solve global agricultural challenges through technological innovation and data utilization.NEC’s new business development, under the key message "The future is ours to shape," is advancing NEC Open Innovation (*2) through diverse co-creation with a wide range of startups and partner companies. NEC’s collaboration with ClimateAi is one such initiative. By uniting innovative technologies with cross-domain collaboration, NEC continues to create new social value and shape the future.(*1)NEC to participate in "TICAD Business Expo and Conference" and thematic events for TICAD 9 https://www.nec.com/en/press/202508/global_20250805_03.html(*2)NEC Open Innovation https://www.nec.com/en/global/innovation/index.htmlAbout ClimateAi, Inc.ClimateAi is a climate adaptation and resilience platform purpose-built for the agriculture, food, and consumer goods sectors. It combines AI-powered weather modeling with phenological and water-scarcity data to deliver highly localized, crop-specific agricultural impact insights across the short, medium, and long term. With deep expertise in climate–agriculture interactions and a client base that spans agricultural and consumer-goods multinationals as well as agricultural investors, ClimateAi turns complex climate data into actionable insights. For more information, visit ClimateAi at https://www.climate.aiAbout NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com.  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

KYOTO, August 19, 2025 - ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - The Value Research Center at Doshisha University proudly announces The Valuism Conference 2025, taking place August 28–29, 2025, in a hybrid format, both in-person in Kyoto and online. The conference will run daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM JSTA New Framework for Value CreationThis inaugural Valuism gathering aims to advance a novel integrative framework, Valuism, designed to address pressing challenges in sustainability, long-term resilience, and multi-stakeholder value creation. Attendees will explore how philosophical insight, cutting-edge technologies (e.g., AI, blockchain, big data), and cross-sector collaboration can foster transparency, ethical decision-making, and real-time measurement of value.Featuring keynote speeches, expert panels, and interactive sessions, The Valuism Conference 2025 will cover:- Philosophical foundations and real-world applications of Valuism Strategies for monetizing and scaling intangible assets - The role of emerging technologies in sustainable and ethical business practices- Cross-sector approaches that benefit companies, communities, shareholders, employees, and the environment.Registration and TicketingA range of ticket options accommodates different audiences:General Admission (in-person) - ¥15,000, Corporate Admission (for up to 3 participants) - ¥40,000, Online only Admission - ¥5,000, Student Admission - ¥3,000, Students from Kansai universities (Doshisha University, Osaka University, Kyoto University, Kobe University and Kansai University) can attend for free.The Valuism Conference 2025 offers a unique opportunity for leaders in academia, business, government, and civil society to shape a more holistic and responsible value paradigm for the 21st century.For full program details, speaker bios, and registration, visit: The Valuism Conference 2025 page on the Value Research Center site. https://www.valueresearchcenter.com/valuismconference2025 About the Value Research CenterFounded in November 2021, the Value Research Center (VRC) at Doshisha University is dedicated to developing frameworks, metrics, and reporting tools that capture value generated or lost across seven stakeholder domains: the organization, shareholders, customers, employees, partners, society, and the planet. https://www.valueresearchcenter.com Contact: Value Research Center, Doshisha University Email: psugai@mail.doshisha.ac.jp Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Kawasaki, Japan, August 19, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced the signing of a new licensing agreement with Palantir Technologies Japan for the Palantir Artificial Intelligence Platform (Palantir AIP), a software that supports the integration of generative AI into business operations. The agreement, signed on August 5, 2025, will allow Fujitsu to provide Palantir AIP to its customers in Japan, with global expansion expected during fiscal 2025. Fujitsu will also combine Palantir AIP with Fujitsu Uvance, its business model to solve societal issues, to facilitate business transformation for its customers in Japan and around the world. This agreement will further strengthen the strategic global partnership between Fujitsu and Palantir.Fujitsu and Palantir began their collaboration in 2020, focusing on data integration and digital transformation support in the Japanese market. In 2023, the two parties signed a global agreement, under which Palantir grants Fujitsu the right to market and distribute Palantir Foundry, a platform currently offered for integrated management of large-scale data dispersed across various systems.When combined with Palantir Foundry, Palantir AIP enables the rapid implementation of generative AI functionalities for data analysis and decision-making within enterprises. It can be used with a preferred large language model (LLM) within corporate networks and is adopted extensively in highly confidential sectors such as finance and defense. By leveraging Palantir AIP, customers can design and develop systems utilizing generative AI and AI agents in a fraction of the time of conventional methods, enabling faster optimization of supply chains, automation of business workflows, and to empower executive decision-making.Fujitsu currently offers solutions that combine its operational expertise with Palantir Foundry for data integration and analysis, optimizing operations in areas such as supply chain and engineering. The integration of Palantir AIP into Fujitsu Uvance will introduce unified support for generative and agentic AI tasks including scenario simulation, root cause analysis, and proposal generation and further optimize business processes. Furthermore, by linking with Fujitsu's AI services such as Takane and Fujitsu Kozuchi, Fujitsu will enhance Japanese language capabilities and business-specific functionalities, and facilitate the rapid implementation of agentic AI for customers with Japanese language requirements. This will contribute to the realization of data-driven autonomous decision-making workflows that transcend traditional visualization-centric analyses while retaining the indispensable oversight and expertise of human practitioners.In its internal trials using Palantir AIP, Fujitsu found that the platform can optimize human resource utilization, such as appropriate engineer placement and improved matching accuracy through skill analysis and produced results including reduced workload and faster decision-making. With the full-scale utilization of Palantir AIP within Fujitsu now possible, the company will integrate data from internal core systems and further advance management visualization and decision-making enhancement, including mechanisms for early detection and prediction of various risks related to its supply chain (i.e., natural disasters, financial, and compliance risks, etc.) and enabling rapid response.Through this partnership, Fujitsu aims to achieve sales of USD 100 million by the end of fiscal 2029 by providing high-value-added offerings and supporting advanced decision-making for customers across various industries, including manufacturing, retail, government, and finance. Palantir will provide the Palantir AIP platform and continuous functional enhancements, along with technical support for expanding use cases through collaboration with Fujitsu.Going forward, under Fujitsu Uvance, Fujitsu will leverage generative AI to provide foundational infrastructure for information sharing and data utilization that connects the workplaces and management in real-time, contributing to the realization of a more sustainable future.About FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers around the globe, our 113,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: AI, Computing, Networks, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.6 trillion yen (US$23 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: global.fujitsuPress ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiries  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Aug 18, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo, and Home Delights Expo successfully concluded today. Food Expo PRO and the Hong Kong International Tea Fair, which opened to both industry professionals and the public for the first time, wrapped up successfully on 16 August. The five exhibitions featured some 1,890 exhibitors and attracted over 500,000 visits. The bustling atmosphere resulted in a per capita spending of HK$1,630, once again demonstrating the appeal of this annual event and the public’s purchasing power. Over at Food Expo PRO and the Hong Kong International Tea Fair, there were some 18,500 buyers from 64 countries and regions. Apart from Hong Kong, buyers came from Mainland China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, as well as ASEAN countries, including Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, among others, highlighting Hong Kong's significant role as a key food trade hub globally. Additionally, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products, organised by the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association (MCMIA) together with the HKTDC and ten scientific research institutions, also concluded successfully on 15 August.Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, stated: "This year, the event featured five major themes across several exhibitions, complemented by a variety of exciting activities that encouraged people to spend locally. The atmosphere was vibrant, fully reflecting the public's enthusiasm for gourmet food and trendy products. Due to weather conditions on the first day, the opening hours of the public fairs from Friday to Sunday were extended to provide exhibitors with greater opportunities to maximise sales and enhance visitor experiences. The Hong Kong International Tea Fair, which opened to the public over all three days for the first time, attracted significant attention and praise.”Despite challenges from sluggish trade in traditional markets and geopolitical challenges, the HKTDC has consistently focused on driving innovation, helping small and medium-sized enterprises seize global development trends, and creating opportunities through innovative and flexible thinking.Ms Chong added: “At this year's Food Expo and Food Expo PRO, we specifically curated products and services related to halal food, the silver economy, and food technology to meet emerging market demands and capture more business opportunities for exhibitors. We are pleased to see that the five exhibitions successfully generated more business for exhibitors, and the public enjoyed the culinary and shopping experience fully."Per capita spending reached HK$1,630; increased interest in halal foodsDuring the exhibition, the organisers conducted a random sampling survey, interviewing some 1,440 visitors. The per capita spending reached HK$1,630. Over 58% of respondents reported spending HK$1,000 or more at the exhibition, and over 30% indicated that their actual spending exceeded their original budget, demonstrating a strong and thriving consumption atmosphere during the event. The survey results also showed respondents believe that health, green and organic food (48%), and nutritional supplements (36%) trends are worth paying attention to. Among the respondents who are aware that the exhibition has a halal food and beverage label, more than half of the respondents (52%) believe it helps promote the development of halal foods.Vibrant consumption at the exhibition: encouraging sales performanceAs a highly anticipated annual event in the city, the Food Expo is dedicated to highlighting exquisite delicacies and fine wines from around the world. Director of exhibitor Yick Cheong Ho (HK) Limited, Joan Chui, stated that the Flavours of Intangible Cultural Heritage theme day has drawn extra interest and expected revenue of approximately HK$900,000. Some exhibitors are further expanding their business through the Food Expo. Huaying Lei, the chairman of Mayang Blue Phoenix Agricultural Development Co., Ltd from Mainland China stated that the company had signed a RMB60 million contract with a Hong Kong client for agri-products including high-quality edible eggs. Lei believed the Food Expo offers a perfect platform to showcase their wide-ranging products from Hunan Province.The concurrently held Beauty & Wellness Expo offered visitors a diverse range of premium products, with brand Mars, a Taiwan whey protein brand, the brand marketing manager Roy Wong said, “This year, the visitor traffic exceeded our expectations and we expect our on-site sales will increase by 30% to HK$200,000.”The Home Delights Expo showcased a variety of trendy household items and furniture. Andy Tsang, the design director of Renovation Guide Consultant Limited - specialising in interior design and decoration and participating in the expo for the first time - said, “Such a large number of new customers visiting our booth went above and beyond our expectations. We provided quotations to over 20 new clients, and we estimate that sales turnover will be around HK$2-3 million."Trade exhibitions expand business networks; thriving opportunities in halal foodThe 3rd Food Expo PRO and the 35th Food Expo introduced halal food and beverage label last year to help exhibitors expand their market for halal products. This year, more than 120 food suppliers showcased halal products from around the world, a 20% increase compared to last year. Daniel Chan, Director of Hong Kong exhibitor, Koon Chun Hing Kee Soy & Sauce Factory Ltd., said the company had seen many buyers from different countries and regions and discussed cooperations with five Mainland China and local distributors and restaurants and also met a buyer from Indonesia through the Click2Match platform.The new "Coffee" zone also debuted this year, showcasing coffee products, accessories, and machines from various origins. Jin Lu, Operations Director of CSFA Holdings Shanghai Co. Ltd., stated that the company has engaged with nine exhibitors from Mainland China, the U.S., South Korea, and other regions. The company is interested in placing a coffee beans order of approximately 50 metric tons (worth around RMB3 million) from a Yunnan-based supplier, as well as a RMB700,000 order for premium hairtail fish from a Korea exhibitor.The highlight zone, "Food Science and Technology," brought alternative and future food to the attention of professional buyers. My Care Healthcare Limited, a manufacturer of modified soft diet products for the elderly. Founder Francis Ho said they had discussions with nearly 120 buyers on the first day. On the last day of the fair, HKTDC arranged specialised medical industry buyer tours of which there were two potential buyers and the company is in talks with two hospitals to discuss the potential of supplying soft meals to them.The Okinawa Prefectural Government Hong Kong Representative Office organised four Okinawan companies to participate in the Food Expo PRO and successfully connected with buyers from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and international markets. Director Yasutoshi Nohara stated the fair helps them generate around HK$4 million in orders every year. Mr Nohara said the expo has been instrumental in providing them with a great opportunity, particularly to introduce Okinawan products in the Greater Bay Area and expand beyond Hong Kong with items that have not been shown in other markets before, such as soft shell turtle and Motobu beef.Sichuan Sentaiyuan Biotechnology Co., Ltd. has participated in the Food Expo PRO for four consecutive years, promoting healthy products. The company’s CEO, Liu Lei shared, “On the first day of the Expo, we met a long-time Hong Kong client in person for the first time, leading to a successful deal worth over US$5 million. The HKTDC also introduced several potential buyers from Japan, Singapore, and other regions and we expect deals to be finalised soon.” Mr Lei also mentioned that through the hktdc.com Sourcing platform, the company received around 30 inquiries before the expo and arranged on-site meetings with several clients. The “EXHIBITION+” hybrid model has significantly boosted the company’s visibility and secure more business opportunities.The Hong Kong International Tea Fair opened to trade and public visitors on all three days for the first time. Yip Wing-chi, Founder of exhibitor, Lock Cha Tea House, welcomed this arrangement and noted that there was a significant increase in traffic, creating a lively atmosphere. The public participation has effectively boosted business. Mr Yip said this year's sales were three times higher than last year.Hybrid model connecting local and overseas opportunitiesThis year, both Food Expo PRO and the Hong Kong International Tea Fair continued to adopt the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, enabling global food and tea buyers to engage in business discussions through both physical exhibitions and online platforms. Until 23 August, exhibitors and buyers can still utilise the "Click2Match" smart matching platform for online discussion and to explore business opportunities.Chinese Medicine Conference Gathers Experts and Scholars to Promote Industry ExchangeThe International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products, organised by the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association in partnership with the HKTDC and ten scientific research institutions, has successfully concluded. The conference unveiled the latest professional information on traditional Chinese medicine and shared innovative achievements and development trends in the globalisation of Chinese medicine. Held concurrently with the Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo, Home Delights Expo, Food Expo PRO, and the Hong Kong International Tea Fair, the event covered diverse fields such as food, beauty, health, home products, and Chinese medicine, successfully creating a synergistic effect, providing a broad platform for industry exchange.Photo download: http://bit.ly/4mrgT4SThe Food Expo, Home Delights Expo, and Beauty & Wellness Expo, three public exhibitions organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, along with the Food Expo PRO and the Hong Kong International Tea Fair, have successfully concluded, attracting over 500,000 visits to attend and shopThe Food Expo PRO featured multiple pavilions showcasing unique culinary delights from different countries and regions, with exhibitors displaying halal food and beverage label gaining increasing attentionThe Federation of Hong Kong Industries and the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong launched the “Hong Kong Q-Mark Halal Scheme” at the Food Expo PRO, announcing their joint efforts to promote halal certification and its development, fostering the sustainable development of halal products and culture in Hong KongAt the Food Expo PRO, the HKTDC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with The Bank of Saga Ltd., to promote businesses in Saga, Fukuoka, and Nagasaki to further their development in Hong Kong and beyond, revitalising both the local economy and prosperity of the regionThe Hong Kong International Tea Fair opened to the public for the first time over its three-day exhibition period, drawing many visitors to explore a variety of tea beveragesThe five major theme days ran throughout the exhibition period, with the opening day (14 August) featuring "Shall We Tea'”, focusing on demonstrations of Northern and Southern dim sum and creative dim sum making, tea therapy workshops and other exciting activitiesOn 15 August, “Flavours of Intangible Cultural Heritage” featured hands-on experiences in making traditional Hakka “hand-pulled” noodles, as well as introductions to intangible cultural heritage steamer and bamboo craftmanship culture, along with steamer craft demonstrationsOn 17 August, “Body, Mind & Soul” responds to the business opportunities brought by the silver economy, with exhibitors launching a variety of products and services tailored for seniorsThe Beauty & Wellness Expo has introduced a new Polish pavilion this year, showcasing high-quality products such as caviar essence cream, pure natural essential oils, hair growth serums, and other products. The newly-established "Scentsation" zone focuses on perfumes and aromatherapy, featuring over 20 participating brandsThe Home Delights Expo's "Avenue of Delights" brand zone included more than 35 exhibitors, showcasing various lifestyle brandsThroughout the exhibitions, a series of highly popular and exciting events were held, including "Star Chef Cooking Demonstrations”, "Smart Bidding", and lucky drawsThe International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products presented the latest professional information on Chinese medicine. The conference, themed "The Latest Research Progress in the Prevention and Treatment of Tumours, Inflammation and Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases with Traditional Medicine", featured 21 prominent speakers, including experts from Hong Kong, mainland China, and overseas, sharing innovative achievements and development trends in the globalization of Chinese medicineTo learn more about the opinions of exhibitors and buyers, please visit:HKTDC Food Expo PROhttps://foodexpopro.hktdc.comHong Kong International Tea Fairhkteafair.hktdc.comHKTDC Food Expohkfoodexpo.hktdc.comHKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expohkbeautyexpo.hktdc.comHKTDC Home Delights Expohomedelights.hktdc.comThe International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM)icmcm.hktdc.com Media EnquiriesOgilvy Public Relations:Rex CheukTel: (852) 5618 9908email: rex.cheuk@ogilvy.comLeanne PokTel: (852) 9379 9694 email: leanne.pok@ogilvy.comDaisy LeungTel: (852) 9275 7704email: daisy.leung@ogilvy.comHKTDC’s Communications and Public Affairs Department:Stanley SoTel:(852) 2584 4049email: stanley.hp.so@hktdc.orgSerena CheungTel:(852) 2584 4272email: serena.hm.cheung@hktdc.orgClayton LauwTel:(852) 2584 4472email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgMedia Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.comAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, August 18, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced that Team Mitsubishi Ralliart, which receives technical support from the company, has won first place in the Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) 2025, held in Thailand from August 8 to 16. The team competed with the Triton1 pickup truck (T1 specification, or modified cross-country vehicle), covering a total distance of 2,316.32 kilometers (km), including 1,002.95 km of Special Stages (SS)2.Team Mitsubishi RalliartIn the overall standings, Chayapon Yotha secured first place with a total time of 16 hours, 15 minutes and 12 seconds; Katsuhiko Taguchi finished in fifth place; and Kazuto Koide placed 22nd overall. The team also earned the Team Award – given to teams with three or more finishers based on the combined time of their top two vehicles – for the second time, and the first in two years.This year’s AXCR kicked off with a ceremonial start at Walking Street, a well-known tourist spot in Pattaya, Thailand. The rally officially began the following day with Leg 1, traveling roughly 360 km northeast from Pattaya to Prachin Buri in eastern Thailand. This leg featured the rally’s longest SS, spanning 199.13 km.Leg 2 took competitors about 500 km north from Prachin Buri to Khao Yai. The SS included a mix of rocky terrain and high-speed sections through plantations, highlighting the diverse landscapes AXCR is known for. Leg 3 remained in the Khao Yai area, where the already demanding course was made even tougher by afternoon squalls that turned the roads muddy, causing many vehicles to struggle.Legs 4 and 6, originally planned to run within 50 km of the Cambodian border, were canceled due to safety concerns. Leg 5 proceeded as scheduled, returning to Prachin Buri for an SS near the city. Although the route followed the same path as SS1, the course had deteriorated significantly due to deep ruts left by vehicles in Leg 1 and fallen trees caused by continuous rain. Even top teams were caught in the mud, making it one of the most grueling days of the rally.In Leg 7, the rally returned to Pattaya, retracing parts of the SS1 and SS5 routes. This stage featured narrow paths through plantations, pothole-ridden roads, and river crossings. The final day, Leg 8, concluded at Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya.Team Mitsubishi Ralliart Driver HighlightsChayapon Yotha, the team’s ace driver, started in 12th position but quickly climbed the ranks with strong times in Leg 1, ending the first day in second place. Thanks to precise navigation by co-driver Peerapong Sombutwong and consistent driving that pushed for speed while minimizing mechanical strain, he took the overall lead in Leg 3. Despite getting stuck in deep mud during Leg 5, he maintained an aggressive pace and recorded the second fastest SS time in Leg 7. He held onto the lead and won the rally by a narrow margin of seven minutes, claiming his second overall AXCR victory – his first in three years.Katsuhiko Taguchi began in a strong fifth position and remained among the frontrunners in the early stages. However, in Leg 3, rough terrain damaged the front suspension and dropped him to 10th overall. In Leg 5, where many vehicles struggled with deep mud, he overtook 18 competitors and posted the fastest SS time, recovering to sixth overall. Despite damage to the under guard and rear suspension on the demanding Leg 7 course, his determined driving earned him a fifth place overall – the highest among Japanese pairs – concluding his third AXCR challenge.Kazuto Koide, competing in his second year as a corporate driver, faced early setbacks. On the first day, poor visibility from dust led to a collision with a suddenly stopped vehicle, resulting in a day retirement, and in Leg 5, he experienced rear brake failure. Despite these issues, he supported teammates dealing with mechanical troubles in Legs 3 and 8, fulfilling his role as a support vehicle. He improved on last year’s result, finishing 22nd overall.Comments from Team Mitsubishi RalliartHiroshi Masuoka, Team Director“Winning was our top priority this year, and I am thrilled we achieved it while showcasing the strength and audacity of Mitsubishi Motors-ness. Securing the team award is a testament to the collective effort and determination of everyone at Team Mitsubishi Ralliart. By refining the Triton’s core strengths – its stability on high-speed stages and agility on winding roads – we gained a competitive edge over rivals with larger-displacement engines. Looking ahead to next year, we will continue to enhance the vehicle to further boost our competitiveness.”Chayapon Yotha, Driver of Car #112“I am truly happy to have claimed overall victory once again, thanks to the entire team playing their part perfectly and delivering a flawless vehicle. This year’s rally was extremely demanding, with rocky sections, mud, and slippery terrain. Yet, the Triton’s durability and exceptional handling allowed me to stay in control through high-speed corners and technical muddy stretches, delivering top-tier performance. I will be back next year to defend the championship.”Katsuhiko Taguchi, Driver of Car #105“Although I finished fifth again this year, I can clearly see how much our crew has improved. We consistently posted competitive times against larger-displacement vehicles across all stages, even recording the fastest SS time in Leg 5. The Triton continues to evolve year after year, and its suspension and handling capabilities were crucial in tackling rough terrain and contributing to Chayapon’s victory. After the rally, we identified areas where we can gain more time, so with thorough testing to build on our strengths, I am confident we can achieve even better results next year.”Kazuto Koide, Driver of Car #118“Although the rally was mentally demanding, especially with a day retirement, it was an invaluable experience. The Triton I drove was equipped with an automatic transmission using standard production components, yet it proved remarkably resilient even under the harsh conditions of AXCR. The handling and maneuverability I experienced will provide valuable feedback for future vehicle development, and I look forward to applying these insights to the next generation of Mitsubishi models.”AXCR 2025 Auto Category – Overall Standings1.Chayapon Yotha (Mitsubishi Triton)16 h 15 m 12 s2.Mana Pornsiricherd (Toyota Hilux Revo)16 h 23 m 03 s3.Bailey Cole (Ford Raptor)17 h 08 m 29 s4.Ditsapong Maneein (Isuzu D-Max)17 h 09 m 32 s5.Katsuhiko Taguchi (Mitsubishi Triton)17 h 37 m 56 s6.Natthaphon Angritthanon (Toyota Hilux Revo)17 h 46 m 52 s…22.Kazuto Koide (Mitsubishi Triton)29 h 34 m 31 sRally reports are available on Ralliart’s official Instagram account. https://www.instagram.com/ralliart.official/AXCR Special Website:https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/brand/ralliart/axcr/axcr2025/1.Sold as L200 in some markets2.The actual distance was shortened due to course changes.About Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors Corporation (TSE:7211) — a member of the Alliance with Renault and Nissan — is a global automobile company based in Tokyo, Japan, which has about 28,000 employees and a global footprint with production facilities in Japan and the ASEAN region. Mitsubishi Motors has a competitive edge in SUVs, pickup trucks and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and appeals to ambitious drivers willing to challenge convention and embrace innovation. Since the production of our first veh icle more than a century ago, Mitsubishi Motors has been a leader in electrification — launched the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle in 2009, followed by the Outlander PHEV, the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV in 2013. With a target of increasing the sales ratio of electrified vehicles to 100% by 2035, Mitsubishi Motors will deliver models that embody Mitsubishi Motors-ness and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society. For more information on Mitsubishi Motors, please visit the company's website at https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/ Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Tokyo, Japan, August 18, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) — NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) (*1), which promotes activities to protect the health and rights of women and girls, to collaborate on the development of a beneficiary information management system.Both parties will promote digitization in the management of beneficiary information supported by the UNFPA and implement privacy-conscious operations, thereby contributing to the provision of rapid, safe, and secure support. This system will be implemented in Nigeria and Madagascar by the end of 2025, supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan and aiming to build on this partnership in other parts of the world.NEC Chief of Staff for the CDO and Head of the Marketing & Alliance Promotion Department, Mayuko Tatewaki (left), UNFPA Director, Division for External Relations, Ian McFarlane (center left), UNFPA Director, Information Technology Solution Office, Soren Thomassen (center right), and UNFPA Chief, Representation office in Tokyo, Japan, Eiko Narita (right)The UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. The UNFPA’s mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The agency began operating in 1969 and currently works with partners in more than 150 countries to provide access to a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services.In recent years, an increase in international conflicts, and natural disasters caused climate change have led to ongoing social and economic unrest around the world. Amidst this situation, it is imperative to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), including addressing gender-based violence (GBV) against women and girls.To address these challenges more rapidly and safely, the UNFPA and NEC will establish a beneficiary information management system based on an e-Voucher system, which is NEC's solution for the registration and management of beneficiary information, that digitizes and centrally manages information such as names, addresses, and details of the support provided for beneficiaries, which was previously managed on paper. This will enable the UNFPA to accurately identify the needs of beneficiaries, such as the kinds of support required for each region, and to develop support plans accordingly, thereby achieving swift and effective support delivery.Additionally, to appropriately handle beneficiary information containing sensitive content, the system will be designed to ensure the privacy of beneficiaries, and the UNFPA will receive NEC training on data literacy, ensuring safe and secure operations that prioritize privacy protection.Moreover, NEC will participate in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) (*2) at Pacifico Yokohama in Yokohama, Japan, from August 20 (Wed.) to 22 (Fri.), 2025. At this event, NEC will introduce its initiatives at the TICAD Business Expo and Conference exhibition hall (*3) and at the UNFPA-planned event stage (*4)."This is a great partnership opportunity that leverages resources from both public and private sectors for a greater impact on the ground, especially for women and girls to enjoy their ‘rights and choices’."Ian McFarlane, Director, Division for External Relations, UNFPA"We are pleased to contribute to the UNFPA's acceleration of its activities around the world by leveraging NEC's digital technology. We are confident that this collaboration will bring about digital transformation in the fields of humanitarian aid and global health."Mayuko Tatewaki, Chief of Staff for the CDO and Head of the Marketing & Alliance Promotion Department, NEC(*1)United Nations Population Fund https://www.unfpa.org/(*2)The 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) https://www.mofa.go.jp/region/africa/ticad/ticad9/index.html(*3)NEC to participate in "TICAD Business Expo and Conference" and thematic events for TICAD 9https://www.nec.com/en/press/202508/global_20250805_03.html(*4)Investing in Peace: Digital Transformation (DX) in Health for Adolescent Youth and Women https://tokyo.unfpa.org/ja/event/ticad9_thematic (scroll down the link for English)About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com.  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Aug 18, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Anime Tokyo Station, an exhibition center for Japanese anime operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Association of Japanese Animations, is a facility that promotes the appeal of Japanese anime to the world under the motto “Making ANIME more interesting, Bringing ANIME far into the future.” The facility has welcomed numerous visitors from Japan and overseas, and on August 3, 2025, the number of visitors surpassed 200,000.The 200,000th visitors were a group of three from Fukuoka and Kanagawa Prefectures, and they shared their surprise and delight: “Today we happened to pass by Anime Tokyo Station and decided to come in because we love anime. We didn’t know this facility existed. We’re surprised to be here at such a commemorative moment—celebrating the 200,000th visitor.” When asked about which exhibits left an impression on them, they commented, “We were amazed to see the anime production materials archive and the anime production process exhibits on the first basement floor. It really hit us that anime is something that is actually created by people. It’s incredible.”Anime Tokyo Station preserves approximately 50,000 valuable materials related to past anime production processes. The facility serves as a launch point into the world of anime,  where a variety of people such as travelers visiting Tokyo from all over the world can gather and enjoy discovering both past masterpieces and the latest popular series. Going forward, we will share the appeal of anime and Tokyo with a wide range of anime fans both in Japan and overseas.Venue Overview- Name: Anime Tokyo Station (also known as "Anime Tokyo")- Location: Floors B1 to 2F of Tokyu East 5 (2-25-5 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo)*4 minutes on foot from the East Exit of Ikebukuro Station- Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (last admission: 6:45 p.m. / Special exhibitions last admission: 6:30 p.m.)- Closed: Mondays*If Monday falls on a holiday, the venue will be open on Monday and closed on the following dayNew Year's holiday periodMay be closed on other daysPlease check the venue website before coming.- Admission fee: Free- Website: https://animetokyo.jp/en/- SNS:X | https://x.com/animetokyo_info (@animetokyo_info)Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/animetokyostation/ (@animetokyostation)YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@アニメ東京ステーションInquiries regarding this press releasePublic Relations Office of "Anime Tokyo Station" (Kyodo PR)Contact person: Miri YasudaE-mail: animetokyo-pr@kyodo-pr.co.jp Press release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20250818.pdf  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com