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For 12 days, the Spring Fair transformed VEC into a walkable map of 34 provinces, blending cuisine, culture and commerce inside Southeast Asia’s largest exhibition complex.

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2026 – For nearly two weeks, the Spring Fair 2026 turned the Vietnam Exhibition Center into something few destinations manage to become: a condensed, high-definition portrait of an entire country.

As the fair drew to a close, what remains is not simply a tally of booths or sales figures, but the impression of a place that allowed visitors to move ‘through Vietnam’ at remarkable speed. Within a single afternoon, one could travel from the northern mountains to the Mekong Delta without leaving a 90-hectare venue on the outskirts of Hanoi.

Framed as “A Marketplace of 34 Provinces,” the event gathered regional economies, culinary traditions and cultural performances under one monumental roof. For many international visitors in Hanoi this spring, it became a defining stop on the city’s New Year cultural calendar.

A Country in One Afternoon

The scale was unapologetically large. More than 3,000 standard booths. Around 2,500 enterprises. Participation from 34 provinces and cities across Vietnam. Over 12 continuous days, the fair aimed for direct revenue of 1,000 billion VND and operated at a pace that rarely slowed.

Inside, the exhibition floor was organized into thematic zones such as “Vietnamese Cultural Essence” and “Vietnamese Agricultural Products – Connecting Spring”. The layout encouraged visitors to drift geographically. One moment, they stood in the northern region. Minutes later, they were tasting specialties from the south.

In the section representing Bắc Ninh, trays of bánh phu thê (sticky rice cake filled with mung bean paste, traditionally served at weddings) glowed under warm light. Nearby, vendors rolled out bánh cuốn Mao Điền (thin rice sheets wrapped around seasoned minced pork and wood ear mushrooms), the steam rising gently into the air. Nem chua (fermented pork sausage) was sliced into neat portions, while bundles of mì gạo chũ (sun-dried rice noodles from Bắc Giang) were arranged in pale, orderly stacks.

Further along, the scent shifted. At a booth from Sơn La, strips of thịt trâu gác bếp (smoked buffalo meat) were cut from darkened slabs and dipped into a dense sauce flecked with mắc khén (wild mountain pepper with a citrusy heat). The taste was smoky, slightly sweet and sharply spiced. At another stand, mắm tôm chua (fermented shrimp paste with chili and garlic) from Huế was wrapped with boiled pork belly and green banana slices, layered with fresh herbs to soften its tang.

In the southern cluster, bánh pía (flaky pastry filled with mung bean, salted egg yolk and durian) from Sóc Trăng were sliced while still warm, their layered crust collapsing delicately to reveal a rich interior. The aroma of durian lingered in the air, unmistakable and confident.

“I really liked how the space was designed according to each province’s characteristic… not only products, but also culture – music, people, traditional dress. It clearly shows very thoughtful experiential design,” said an American visitor during the event.

For business delegations, the appeal went beyond atmosphere.

“We came here to find Vietnamese partners for cashew nuts, cacao and coffee,” said Mandel V. Panizares, representative of Green Agricultural Products Trading in the Philippines. “Seeing the products directly and discussing at the booth; this ‘see and touch’ approach helps us evaluate quality and production capacity more clearly than just looking at profiles or images.”

Cultural performance threaded through the marketplace. Visitors found themselves mesmerized watching more than 50 performers in restored Nguyễn-era garments entered the main corridor for the “Hundred Flower Parade”. Gold embroidered nhật bình (formal imperial robes) shimmered beneath the hall’s lights. Ceremonial horses stepped carefully across polished floors as shoppers paused mid-conversation to watch.

“The parade is not just a performance, but a living cultural experience, where traditional Vietnamese attire, rituals, aesthetics and people exist together within the flow of daily life and commerce,” said Nguyen Thanh Nam, a member of the project team.

Across the 12 days, more than 40 cultural programs and hundreds of performances unfolded, including shows by the Vietnam Circus Federation and the Vietnam Puppet Theatre. Music, acrobatics and folk art existed in easy proximity to contract discussions and product demonstrations.

By the final weekend, it was clear that the Spring Fair had evolved into something more than an exhibition. It functioned as a temporary indoor festival city, layered with sound, flavor and movement.

The Platform Powering the Experience

The intensity of the experience was made possible by the Vietnam Exhibition Center itself.

Spanning 90 hectares, VEC is the largest exhibition complex in Southeast Asia and ranks among the top ten globally. At its core stands the Kim Quy Exhibition Hall, a 130,000 square meter column-free structure that provides uninterrupted interior space on a scale rarely seen in the region.

Built in just 10 months by Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate, and officially opened on August 19, 2025, the center welcomed 1.2 million visitors within its first three days of operation. Managing that volume required advanced crowd coordination, robust security systems and integrated logistics capable of operating at metropolitan scale.

The infrastructure extends well beyond the main hall. An 18-hectare parking area accommodates more than 10,000 vehicles. Nearly 1,200 electric vehicle charging ports form the largest EV charging station in Vietnam. Integrated storage zones, transport logistics and modern electronic payment systems allowed thousands of booths to operate simultaneously without visible strain.

VEC is also a member of the Bureau International des Expositions and serves as Vietnam’s official representative at global exhibition events, positioning it within the international exhibition circuit.

“We believe that, building upon this foundation, VEC will continue to thrive and evolve into a premier hub for major regional and international events. When operated at its full potential, VEC will emerge as a new symbol of a connected, prosperous, integrated, innovative, and sustainable Vietnam, thereby elevating our national standing in the country’s new era of ascent.”, said Mr. Tran Le Phuong, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Vietnam Exhibition Fair Center Joint Stock Company (VEFAC JSC).

During the Spring Fair, that capacity was visible in every operational detail. Corridors remained fluid at peak hours. Multiple stages operated without acoustic conflict. International delegations moved seamlessly between provincial booths.

“I highly appreciate the handicraft products of Hue and high-tech agricultural products of Thanh Hoa and Dong Thap,” said Ozasa Haruhiko, Chief Representative of JETRO Hanoi. “The diversity and quality here strengthen my confidence in Japan-Vietnam trade potential.”

As the 2026 edition concludes, the Spring Fair leaves behind more than transactions and photographs. It has demonstrated that Vietnam can stage large-scale exhibitions with cultural depth and operational precision inside world-class infrastructure.

Hashtag: #VEC #Vingroup

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First-Ever Attack-Defence Simulation Aligns with Real Corporate Needs Setting a New Benchmark for Local Cybersecurity Competitions

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – As cyberattacks grow increasingly complex, cybersecurity has become a critical domain of global concern and a talent shortage. According to the latest “Hong Kong Cybersecurity Outlook 2026” released by the Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre (HKCERT) under the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC), nearly 30% of the 622 surveyed enterprises still lack dedicated cybersecurity staff. Specifically, only 26% of SMEs have a dedicated cybersecurity role, significantly lower than the 59% of large enterprises, reflecting a gap in resource allocation and technology adoption among SMEs.

To cultivate practical talent for the cybersecurity sector, the sixth “HKCERT Capture The Flag Challenge 2025” (HKCERT CTF Challenge) was successfully organised by the Digital Policy Office (DPO), HKPC, and HKCERT. This year’s competition was elevated to the first-ever adoption of an attack–defence mode, closely replicating the network setup of real enterprises. Participants experienced first-hand hacking techniques, system vulnerability analysis, threat intelligence gathering, and coordinated response in a simulated real-world environment. Through completing multiple tasks within a limited time, the competition also allowed them to break through the traditional classroom theoretical framework, gain practical experience and build confidence. The event attracted around 1,940 young contestants, an increase of nearly 40% from last year’s 1,385 participants, reaching a record high for the competition. Contestants included teams from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Asia, and Europe, fostering cross-regional exchange and collaboration. In the finals, three local teams and one overseas team were awarded gold prizes in the Secondary School, Tertiary Institution, Open Category, and International Category respectively, while Sing Yin Secondary School received the “Best School Award”. The full list of awardees is available on the event website.

Participants Share Practical Experience Integrating AI into Attack and Defence
The competition was well received by contestants for its innovative format and realistic offensive and defensive environment, offering a valuable platform for learning and exchange. The winning team in the International Category, W&M, commented, “Our members are from Shanxi, Guangdong and Beijing. This was our first time competing together in the HKCERT CTF Challenge. The atmosphere and experience of the finals were excellent. The tasks were centred on an attack‑defence simulation, requiring us to find all vulnerabilities while patching our own systems and attacking other teams at the same time. Some vulnerabilities were discovered and exploited by other teams first, which kept the scores very close and made the competition incredibly tense and exciting”.

They added, “During the competition, we also applied lots of AI techniques for assistance, such as applying AI to analyse vulnerabilities and refine attack methods. In the future, AI may play a deeper role in areas like vulnerability detection and code analysis, but for now it cannot be fully relied upon—human oversight is still essential”.

HKCERT CTF Challenge has now been held for six consecutive years, with its scale expanding annually and participants showing continuous growth. Many secondary school students gain their first hands‑on exposure to cybersecurity through the competition and connect with university mentors, helping them shape their academic and career paths. Several past participants have gone on to compete in local and international events, committing to a future in the cybersecurity field. Beyond attracting overseas talent to exchange ideas in Hong Kong, HKCERT continues to build connections between cybersecurity professionals in Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland. Top‑performing teams can gain direct entry into equivalent finals in Chinese Mainland. For example, participants from the previous HKCERT CTF Challenge 2024 advanced directly to the finals of the “Greater Bay Area Cup Cybersecurity Challenge”, where they secured the top four places in the Hong Kong and Macao category. This also provided local contestants with access to world‑class cybersecurity techniques, effectively promoting cross‑regional elite collaboration and talent development.

Finals Format Upgraded: Attack-Defence Mode Mirrors Real Enterprise Operations
The finals were comprehensively upgraded this year. In addition to increase the overall technical difficulty, the competition introduced an attack‑defence format for the first time that closely mirrors real enterprise cybersecurity operations. Teams played dual roles—both attackers and defenders—in an environment created with reference to the real-world systems. The tasks simulated incident response and live attack-defence scenarios commonly encountered in the cybersecurity field. Within a limited timeframe, participants had to do penetration testing, exploit vulnerabilities and attack, while patching their own systems and monitoring threats in real time against attacks from other teams. This parallel attack‑defence setup reflects actual workflow patterns in the industry, effectively training participants’ analytical abilities and adaptability under pressure. Through hands‑on practice in a likely enterprise environment, contestants developed multifaceted, industry‑aligned capabilities—laying a solid foundation for their future careers in cybersecurity.

Ms Candy CHAN, Assistant Commissioner (Project Governance and Cybersecurity) of the DPO, highlighted the DPO’s commitment to enhancing Hong Kong’s cyber resilience, with one of its key initiatives being the nurturing of the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. She emphasised that the DPO has been collaborating closely with academia and industry partners to foster a robust talent pipeline and build a safer digital environment in Hong Kong. She noted that this year marks the sixth edition of the HKCERT CTF Challenge, which has grown into one of Hong Kong’s most respected and anticipated cybersecurity competitions over the years. Beyond being a contest of technical prowess, the Challenge serves as a dynamic platform for networking, knowledge exchange and community building among the new generation of cybersecurity experts.

Ir Samson SUEN, General Manager of Digital Trust and Transformation Division of HKPC, stated, “HKCERT CTF Challenge has consistently aimed to build an international platform for technical exchange. Through high-intensity simulated contests, we enhance participants’ cyber defence skills and promote cross-regional interaction among emerging cybersecurity talents. This cultivates a new generation of globally competitive professionals in Hong Kong and strengthens the local talent pipeline. This year’s finals first introduced a simulation of real-world cybersecurity operations, enabling teams to experience both offensive and defensive roles in a recent cybersecurity team. This hands-on approach is crucial for developing practical skills and incident response capabilities”.

Fostering Cybersecurity Awareness Across All Sectors of Society
To further enhance cybersecurity awareness across the community, HKCERT has partnered with the DPO and the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau of The Hong Kong Police Force, to launch the “Building a Secure Cyberspace 2026” campaign to promote cybersecurity awareness. The initiative includes various educational activities, such as an “AI-Generated Four-Panel Comic”contest, which encourages the public to make good use of AI tools while strengthening their understanding of cybersecurity. At the corporate governance level, HKCERT will publish a series of practical guidelines addressing emerging risks —such as AI applications and supply chain security—highlighted in the “Hong Kong Cybersecurity Outlook 2026”, to support business in establishing a robust protection framework. In particular for AI governance, the guidelines will offer actionable recommendations covering AI system security assessments, compliance rules for employees using public AI platforms, controls over sensitive data input, and methods for monitoring and defending against AI‑assisted attacks. These resources aim to help enterprises systematically enhance their cyber resilience across governance, technology, and awareness.

As Hong Kong accelerates the development of innovation and technology and advances its digital economy, strengthening cyber defence capabilities has become a key talent need. HKCERT will continue to support businesses and the public through incident response, security guidance, and cybersecurity awareness programmes. The HKCERT CTF Challenge continues to play a vital role in nurturing local talent, fostering cross-regional collaboration, and advancing public education. By enhancing the overall level of protection, the competition contributes to the sustainable development of the digital economy and reinforces Hong Kong’s long‑term competitiveness.

The seventh edition of HKCERT CTF Challenge will be held in November 2026, featuring more innovative attack-defence challenges and continuing to set up an international category to provide local contestants with a platform for technical exchange with top teams from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, and overseas. Registration opens in September 2026, with finalists competing in the live finals in February 2027.

Hashtag: #HKCERT

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About Hong Kong Productivity Council

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries.

HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.

To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.

HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical , assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.

For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.

New Delhi has approved a proposal worth about $39 billion to expand the country’s fleet of Rafale fighter aircraft, marking one of the largest defence procurement decisions in its history and signalling a further shift towards advanced Western platforms in its combat air strategy.

The clearance by the defence ministry paves the way for negotiations with France’s Dassault Aviation for additional Rafale jets, building on an earlier $8.7 billion contract for 36 aircraft for the Air Force, deliveries of which were completed in 2024. A separate agreement has also been signed for 26 Rafale-M naval variants intended for deployment aboard aircraft carriers, underscoring a broader push to strengthen maritime air power.

New Delhi pushes major Rafale fleet expansion as it seeks to address concerns over squadron strength and ageing aircraft. The Air Force’s sanctioned strength stands at 42 squadrons, yet operational numbers have hovered well below that benchmark for years, raising debate within strategic circles over preparedness along contested borders with China and Pakistan.

Officials familiar with the procurement process say the new proposal reflects both operational requirements and long-term modernisation goals. India’s fleet still includes a significant number of Soviet-era MiG-21s and other legacy platforms, many of which are due for phased retirement. The Rafale, a 4.5-generation multirole fighter equipped with advanced avionics, electronic warfare systems and long-range precision weapons, has been positioned as a key element in bridging capability gaps.

The initial induction of 36 Rafales was widely viewed as a stopgap measure after the earlier Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft tender was scrapped amid cost and contractual disputes. Since their deployment at Ambala and Hasimara air bases, the aircraft have been integrated with India-specific enhancements, including advanced radar and electronic countermeasures. Defence planners argue that expanding the Rafale fleet would provide logistical and training efficiencies compared with diversifying further across multiple foreign platforms.

The naval variant, Rafale-M, has been selected to operate from the INS Vikrant, the country’s first domestically built aircraft carrier, and potentially from INS Vikramaditya. Naval aviation officials have indicated that the twin-engine aircraft meets requirements for carrier-based operations, including ski-jump take-offs and arrested landings, following evaluation trials against competitors such as Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.

Strategic analysts view the combined air force and naval acquisitions as part of a wider recalibration of procurement policy. Over the past decade, New Delhi has sought to balance self-reliance initiatives with the need for timely capability upgrades. Programmes under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” framework aim to boost domestic manufacturing, yet complex fighter development remains a long-term endeavour. The Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, has entered service and secured additional orders, but it is not seen as a direct substitute for heavier multirole platforms like the Rafale.

Financial implications are significant. A $39 billion outlay would rank among the largest defence capital expenditures, at a time when the government is managing competing demands from infrastructure, welfare and economic stimulus. Officials have indicated that staggered payments and potential technology transfers could form part of negotiations, with an emphasis on local industry participation.

Previous Rafale contracts were accompanied by offset obligations requiring Dassault and its partners to invest in the domestic aerospace ecosystem. Whether similar provisions will apply to the expanded deal remains a subject of scrutiny, particularly as policymakers seek to deepen supply-chain integration and reduce long-term import dependence.

Diplomatically, the move reinforces defence ties with France, which has emerged as a key security partner in the Indo-Pacific. Bilateral cooperation spans joint exercises, maritime surveillance and submarine technology. Paris has consistently supported India’s strategic autonomy, a factor often cited by policymakers as attractive compared with other major arms suppliers.

Political debate is likely to accompany the procurement, as the earlier Rafale deal became a focal point of parliamentary contestation over pricing and process transparency. Government representatives have maintained that all procedures were followed in accordance with defence acquisition rules, and that operational urgency justified the intergovernmental route adopted at the time.

Air power specialists argue that a larger Rafale fleet would enhance interoperability and deterrence. The aircraft’s ability to carry Meteor beyond-visual-range missiles and SCALP cruise missiles has been highlighted as a force multiplier. Integration with indigenous weapons and network-centric warfare systems is also under way, reflecting a hybrid approach that blends imported hardware with domestic innovation.

Beyond immediate operational considerations, the proposal signals continuity in defence planning that spans successive administrations. India remains among the world’s largest arms importers, yet officials have reiterated ambitions to transition towards greater domestic production capacity over the coming decade. Achieving that balance, while sustaining readiness across land, sea and air domains, presents both fiscal and industrial challenges.

The Panty That Earned Its Place in Every Drawer

In an industry where trends come and go, a decade of consistent customer trust says something. XIXILI’s seamless panties have built a loyal following through one simple promise: comfort that just works. The design eliminates visible panty lines, sits smoothly under any outfit, and feels light enough to wear all day without a second thought.

“These are the panties our customers reach for every day,” says Grace Tan, Senior Marketing Executive at XIXILI. “Once they find a style that works, they tend to stay with it. We often hear from women who have been buying the same design for years.”

The seamless construction removes irritating seams and edges, while the boyleg cut offers fuller coverage that stays comfortably in place. It is the kind of understated comfort that fits quietly into daily life.

Designed for Every Body, Loved by Everyone

Among XIXILI’s top favourite panties are the Full Coverage Mid Rise Knitted Boyleg Panty and Full Coverage High-Waist Knitted Boyleg Panty, two basic styles that have become wardrobe staples.

The Mid Rise option offers moderate coverage with a relaxed fit, ideal for all-day comfort. The High Waist option sits higher on the waist with gentle tummy smoothing, a go-to for wearing under fitted dresses and trousers.

The Lightweight Seamless Microfiber Panty is the star of the range, a bestseller for ten consecutive years. It sits flat against the body for an invisible, second-skin finish under even the tightest clothing. Now available in fresh new colours, this enduring staple continues to deliver the reliability women have come to trust.

Comfort That Starts from Within

Good underwear is the foundation of every outfit. It’s the little detail that helps women move through their day with ease, whether heading to work, running errands, or enjoying time with loved ones.

With the Chinese New Year around the corner, refreshing the essentials feels timely. XIXILI’s latest seamless panties colours offer a simple way to start fresh from the inside out, while staying with a style that has earned its place over the past ten years.

All styles are available online and at XIXILI boutiques nationwide. To explore the whole collection, visit www.xixili-intimates.com.

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About XIXILI

A homegrown Malaysian brand, XIXILI offers beautiful fashion lingerie and shapewear in Malaysia that prioritises fit and comfort. With an extensive range of bra sizes from A to I and bands 65 to 110cm, XIXILI caters to women of all shapes and sizes. Expert fitters are dedicated to helping each customer find the perfect bra, boosting confidence and enhancing silhouettes.

XIXILI became the first Malaysian lingerie brand to introduce a Try-On in 3D avatar tool, allowing customers to virtually try on XIXILI lingerie using a 3D avatar tailored to their specific body type and measurements. Whether for everyday wear or something special, XIXILI ensures women always look and feel amazing.

By Dr. Gyan Pathak India witnessed on Thursday February 12 the most intensified of all India general strike of workers in the country so far in which over 30 crores workers were estimated to have participated in about 600 districts of the country, surpassing the record of July 9, 2025 general strike in which over […]

The article General Strike Of Workers Spread And Intensify Creating History appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

In December 2024, the Spring Festival was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Khaled El-Enany, Director‑General of UNESCO, stated that the Spring Festival has become a globally shared cultural event, and its inscription highlights the global influence of Chinese culture. Yang Xinyu, Ambassador of China’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, praised Nanjing, calling this “City of Literature” a city that brings the charm and warmth of the Spring Festival to Paris, showcasing the profound heritage and contemporary value of Chinese culture.

Nanjing is home to the Nanjing City Wall, the largest existing ancient city wall in the world, and its Yunjin brocade weaving technique has been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. At the event, the 2026 Spring Festival Temple Fair, hosted by China’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, kicked off with great excitement. Inside the headquarters hall, the Nanjing Cultural Symbols Exhibition drew large crowds: Fuma lanterns and Yulong lanterns glittered with brilliance, while Yunjin brocade and velvet flower crafts dazzled with their exquisite artistry. At the interactive area titled “Rubbing to Transmit Cultural Heritage,” guests personally took rubbings of inscriptions from Nanjing City Wall bricks.

In Nanjing itself, the Qinhuai Lantern Fair, with a history of over 1,700 years, illuminates the Confucius Temple; around the Ming City Wall, people “climb the city wall to walk off ailments,” visit temple fairs, and attend exhibitions, making the stories of the city wall a bond connecting the world.

During the event, Nanjing intangible cultural heritage inheritors, design scholars, and world‑leading designers gathered at the Manufacture Nationale de France for a dialogue titled “Reshaping and Interweaving Heritage.” Nanjing upholds the principles of “living heritage and two‑way empowerment,” through authentic restoration, international exchanges, and artistic co‑creation, allowing millennia‑old craftsmanship wisdom to serve the present, and enabling the world to appreciate the charm of Chinese New Year and the enduring power of Chinese civilization.

Hashtag: #Nanjing

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This year’s ranking honors 500 outstanding companies that are elevating the Asia-Pacific region’s role on the global economic map under the title ASIA-PACIFIC’S BEST COMPANIES OF 2026. Vingroup achieved a total score of 89.68, ranking 57th. Vinhomes ranked 352nd with a score of 80.69.

The results are based on a rigorous and transparent evaluation process conducted by TIME in collaboration with Statista. The assessment draws on comprehensive data collection and in-depth analysis across three key criteria: Financial Performance, Sustainability Transparency (ESG), and Employee Satisfaction.

Under the Financial Performance criterion, Vingroup received high recognition from TIME, recording consolidated net revenue of VND 332.77 trillion in 2025, up 76% year-on-year, the highest in the Group’s history. This exceptional performance was driven by the simultaneous launch of large-scale real estate mega-projects nationwide, alongside strong breakthroughs in its technology and industrial segments.

Vinhomes reported consolidated net revenue of VND 154.102 trillion in 2025. Its total consolidated net revenue (adjusted) reached VND 183.923 trillion, while consolidated profit after tax amounted to VND 42.111 trillion, representing year-on-year increases of 30% and 20%, respectively, compared to 2024. These figures not only exceeded business targets but also set new records, securing Vinhomes’ place among the region’s most prestigious Top 500 companies.

Under Sustainability Transparency (ESG), Vingroup continued to demonstrate meaningful contributions across environmental, governance, and social dimensions. ESG principles are integrated across all of the Group’s operations, from advancing green industrial development and building a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem centered on VinFast, to developing Vinhomes’ large-scale urban projects based on sustainable planning standards from inception.

A standout example is Vinhomes’ mega-project, Vinhomes Green Paradise, located in Can Gio. The project aims to achieve international certifications including BREEAM Communities and ISO 37122. Beyond merely adhering to global standards, Vinhomes Green Paradise pioneers an upgraded ESG++ urban model built upon five pillars: Environment – Social – Governance – Regeneration – Climate Change Adaptation. This ESG++ framework is set to become the benchmark for all future Vinhomes developments.

With a forward-looking vision, Vinhomes Green Paradise has also become the first Official Participant in the “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign initiated by New7Wonders, affirming its global aspiration in shaping a model city of the future.

Under the Employee Satisfaction criterion, Vingroup ranked 55th globally, while Vinhomes placed 335th, reflecting a dynamic working environment that fosters creativity, dedication, and continuous personal development.

In Vietnam, Vingroup and Vinhomes have consistently led national rankings of “Best Workplaces” announced by independent organizations, reinforcing their human capital strategy as a core foundation for sustainable, long-term growth.

This marks the third consecutive year that Vingroup and its subsidiaries have been honored by TIME in prestigious global rankings. Previously, VinFast was named among the world’s Most Influential Companies 2024 and included in ASIA-PACIFIC’S BEST COMPANIES OF 2025. Also in 2025, Vingroup became the first and only Vietnamese company to be honored among the World’s Best Companies 2025.

The continued recognition of Vingroup and its ecosystem companies by TIME underscores the rising strength and expanding global influence of Vietnamese enterprises.

TIME, headquartered in New York, USA, is one of the world’s most respected publications, with a history spanning 103 years and a broad international presence. Its annual rankings are widely regarded for their objectivity, rigorous evaluation methodology, and comprehensive criteria, earning strong credibility within the global business community.

Hashtag: #Vingroup #Vinhomes

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Mr. Lawrence Ho, Chairman & CEO, Melco, said, “We are deeply honored to have Melco recognized as the world’s leading integrated resort company by Forbes Travel Guide in 2026. Attaining the most Five-Star awards globally among integrated resort operators is a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence. We are thankful to our Colleagues as such achievements would not be possible without their incredible efforts. These results highlight our dedication to operating world-class integrated resorts that offer superlative design and guest experiences. We look forward to welcoming guests to our properties and further strengthening our portfolio of luxury hospitality and entertainment offerings.”

The 19 Five-Star awards presented to Melco properties and facilities in 2026 FTG are listed below:

Hashtag: #melco #forbes #forbestravelguide #cityofdreamsmacau #studiocity #altiramacau #cityofdreamsmanila

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Wechat: 新濠博亚娱乐

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About Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited

Melco, with its American depositary shares listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (Nasdaq: MLCO), is a developer, owner and operator of integrated resort facilities in Asia and Europe. The Company currently operates City of Dreams (www.cityofdreamsmacau.com) and Altira Macau (www.altiramacau.com), integrated resorts located in Cotai and Taipa, Macau, respectively. In addition, the Company operates Studio City (www.studiocity-macau.com), a cinematically-themed integrated resort in Cotai, Macau. In the Philippines, the Company operates and manages City of Dreams Manila (www.cityofdreamsmanila.com), an integrated resort in the Entertainment City complex in Manila. In Europe, the Company operates City of Dreams Mediterranean, an integrated resort in Limassol, in the Republic of Cyprus (www.cityofdreamsmed.com.cy). In South Asia, the Company manages the Nüwa hotel at City of Dreams Sri Lanka (www.cityofdreamssrilanka.com), an integrated resort in Colombo, Sri Lanka. For more information about the Company, please visitwww.melco-resorts.com.

Melco is majority owned by Melco International Development Limited, a company listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, which is in turn majority owned and led by Mr. Lawrence Ho, who is the Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

Gold purchases across Hong Kong have gathered pace as households and small investors stock up on bullion and coins ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations, with dealers reporting brisk trade while global prices hover close to historic highs.

Retail counters in districts such as Sheung Wan, Mong Kok and Causeway Bay have seen steady queues for small bars and commemorative coins traditionally exchanged as gifts during the festive season. Traders say customers are focusing on one-tael bars and smaller denominations that are easier to present in red packets, reflecting a blend of cultural practice and financial caution.

International gold prices have been supported by expectations of looser monetary policy in major economies, persistent geopolitical tensions and sustained central bank buying. Spot prices have traded near record levels in recent weeks, reinforcing bullion’s appeal as a store of value. Silver has also drawn interest, though gold remains the dominant choice for gift-giving in Hong Kong.

Local jewellers and bullion dealers describe a noticeable shift in purchasing patterns compared with previous years marked by pandemic restrictions and subdued retail activity. Cross-border travel between Hong Kong and mainland cities has normalised, reviving tourist flows that are critical for the territory’s jewellery trade. Shop owners say visitors from across the boundary are contributing to higher volumes, particularly in high-purity investment-grade products.

Industry data from the Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department show that jewellery, watches and clocks sales have rebounded since border controls were lifted, though monthly figures remain sensitive to price swings. Analysts note that high gold prices can dampen jewellery demand, yet investment-led buying often offsets this when households view bullion as a hedge against currency volatility or equity market fluctuations.

The Lunar New Year period is traditionally one of the busiest seasons for precious metals across Chinese communities worldwide. Gold symbolises prosperity and good fortune, and gifting bullion is considered auspicious. Dealers in Hong Kong say that beyond cultural motivations, clients are also reacting to global uncertainties, including conflicts in the Middle East and Europe and uneven economic growth in major markets.

Bank wealth managers in the city report increased inquiries about gold-backed exchange-traded funds and structured products linked to precious metals. While retail investors still favour physical holdings for gifting, more sophisticated clients are diversifying through financial instruments. Analysts at several global banks have projected that gold could remain supported if the US Federal Reserve begins cutting interest rates later this year, reducing the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets.

At the same time, some economists caution that demand could moderate if prices extend gains too rapidly. Jewellery manufacturers operate on tight margins, and elevated bullion costs can squeeze profitability or prompt consumers to reduce the weight of items purchased. Silver, which trades at a lower price point, has benefited from substitution among price-sensitive buyers, though its cultural resonance is weaker than gold’s.

Central bank purchases have emerged as a significant structural driver in the global market. Data from the World Gold Council indicate that official sector buying has reached multi-decade highs, led by emerging market institutions seeking to diversify reserves. This trend has added a floor to prices even as speculative positioning fluctuates on futures exchanges in New York and Shanghai.

Hong Kong’s role as a conduit for precious metals into mainland markets remains important, despite structural shifts in trade flows over the past decade. The territory’s free-port status and established refining and logistics infrastructure continue to attract regional trading activity. Market participants say that any sustained premium between onshore and offshore prices can influence cross-border arbitrage and inventory movements.

Currency dynamics also play a role. The Hong Kong dollar’s peg to the US dollar means local bullion prices closely track movements in the greenback. A softer US currency typically supports higher gold prices globally, while a stronger dollar can temper gains. For residents holding savings in local currency, gold’s performance is effectively tied to broader US monetary policy.

Retailers note that beyond bars and coins, demand for lightweight jewellery pieces suitable for gifting children has risen. Designers are incorporating zodiac motifs for the coming year, adding a seasonal dimension to sales. Some shops have introduced limited-edition products to capitalise on festive sentiment, combining craftsmanship with investment appeal.