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The proposed deal centres on AMD’s latest data centre-grade accelerators, designed to rival dominant offerings in the global AI chip market. Upstage, known for its large language model development and enterprise AI services, is positioning the potential purchase as a step towards building sovereign computing capabilities within Korea, where demand for generative AI infrastructure is rising sharply across finance, manufacturing and public-sector applications.

People familiar with the discussions indicate that the scale of the planned acquisition reflects both immediate computational needs and longer-term ambitions to establish a domestic AI ecosystem capable of training and deploying advanced models without depending heavily on foreign cloud providers. The move aligns with broader efforts in several countries to localise AI infrastructure amid geopolitical concerns and supply chain constraints.

AMD has been expanding its footprint in AI hardware as companies seek alternatives to entrenched suppliers. Its latest accelerators, part of the MI300 series, are designed to handle large-scale model training and inference workloads with improved memory bandwidth and energy efficiency. Industry analysts view Upstage’s interest as a sign that AMD’s strategy of targeting hyperscalers and emerging AI players is gaining traction beyond North America.

Upstage has grown steadily since its founding, focusing on document processing, natural language understanding and enterprise automation. Its proprietary models have been deployed across industries including banking and legal services, where demand for domain-specific AI solutions continues to expand. Executives at the company have previously emphasised the need for greater control over computing resources, citing cost volatility and limited access to high-performance GPUs as barriers to scaling.

Securing a large volume of accelerators could enable Upstage to train more advanced models locally while offering competitive AI services to regional clients. It also positions the company to compete with larger global players that benefit from extensive infrastructure investments. Market observers note that access to compute power has become a defining factor in the AI race, with startups increasingly seeking direct hardware procurement rather than relying solely on cloud-based capacity.

The discussions come amid tightening supply conditions for AI chips, driven by surging demand from technology firms, research institutions and governments. Export controls and trade restrictions have further complicated access to advanced semiconductors, prompting countries in Asia and Europe to accelerate domestic capacity-building initiatives. Korea, home to major semiconductor manufacturers, has been exploring strategies to strengthen its position across the AI value chain.

Government-backed initiatives have aimed to support AI development through funding, talent programmes and infrastructure investments. The potential deal between Upstage and AMD reflects private-sector momentum complementing these policy efforts, as companies seek to capitalise on the growing importance of AI across economic sectors.

Competition in the AI hardware market has intensified as AMD, Intel and other players attempt to challenge established leaders. While Nvidia maintains a dominant position, particularly in training large language models, customers are increasingly evaluating alternative suppliers to diversify risk and manage costs. AMD’s recent partnerships with cloud providers and enterprise customers highlight a shift towards a more competitive landscape.

Analysts caution that large-scale procurement of accelerators involves significant logistical and operational challenges, including data centre readiness, energy consumption and integration with existing software frameworks. Upstage would need to invest in infrastructure and engineering capabilities to fully utilise the hardware, particularly if it aims to build a self-sufficient AI platform within Korea.

At the same time, the strategic implications extend beyond a single company. A successful deployment of large-scale compute resources by Upstage could encourage other regional players to pursue similar investments, contributing to a broader decentralisation of AI development. This trend could reshape how AI capabilities are distributed globally, reducing the concentration of computing power in a handful of technology hubs.

The vessels, loaded with LPG cargoes, are following a path similar to that taken by earlier ships that received clearance to transit the narrow waterway. Industry observers say hugging the Iranian side of the strait may reflect efforts to minimise exposure to potential risks amid heightened scrutiny of maritime movements in the region. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant share of global oil and gas exports passes, has long been vulnerable to disruption during periods of political friction.

Shipping analysts note that the altered routing strategy has become more visible as operators weigh safety considerations against the need to maintain steady energy flows. The decision to steer closer to Iran’s coast does not necessarily indicate a change in official navigation guidelines but highlights the adaptability of commercial shipping in response to perceived threats. Maritime insurers and charterers have been closely monitoring developments, with premiums and risk assessments adjusting in line with evolving conditions.

India’s reliance on imported LPG has grown steadily over the past decade, driven by expanding domestic consumption and government-backed programmes aimed at increasing access to cleaner cooking fuels. As a result, uninterrupted maritime supply chains are critical for meeting demand. The movement of Indian-flagged vessels through Hormuz carries added significance given the country’s position as a major energy importer and its exposure to volatility in global shipping lanes.

The route taken by these vessels follows earlier transits that were understood to have been cleared through established maritime coordination channels. While no formal restrictions have been imposed on passage through the strait, heightened alert levels in surrounding waters have prompted shipowners to adopt precautionary measures. These include adjustments to sailing speeds, increased onboard vigilance, and coordination with naval authorities in the region.

Tensions in West Asia have periodically raised concerns about the security of shipping through Hormuz. Episodes involving vessel seizures, drone activity, and naval manoeuvres have reinforced the strategic sensitivity of the waterway. Although large-scale disruptions have been avoided, even limited incidents can have ripple effects across global energy markets, influencing freight rates, insurance costs, and delivery schedules.

Market participants indicate that LPG shipments have remained largely uninterrupted, but logistical complexities have increased. Charter rates for gas carriers have shown signs of volatility, reflecting both demand dynamics and risk premiums associated with transiting high-risk zones. Traders and refiners are factoring in longer voyage times and potential delays when planning cargo movements.

Officials and industry executives emphasise that international maritime law guarantees freedom of navigation through straits used for international transit, including Hormuz. However, the practical execution of that principle often depends on the prevailing security environment. Naval patrols by regional and international forces continue to play a role in deterring threats and ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels.

Energy analysts point out that India sources LPG from multiple suppliers, including producers in West Asia and beyond, making the Hormuz route indispensable. Any sustained disruption could have implications for domestic supply chains, pricing, and inventory management. At the same time, diversification strategies, including alternative sourcing and storage capacity expansion, are being explored to mitigate potential risks.

The movement of the two LPG carriers also reflects broader trends in global shipping behaviour, where operators increasingly rely on real-time intelligence and data analytics to inform routing decisions. Advances in vessel tracking and communication technologies have enhanced situational awareness, enabling more responsive navigation strategies in sensitive regions.

Shipping companies have also strengthened coordination with flag states and port authorities to ensure compliance with safety advisories and regulatory requirements. Crew training and contingency planning have gained prominence, with a focus on preparedness for a range of scenarios, from mechanical issues to security incidents.

High-end resorts along the Andaman coast and landmark properties in Bangkok have introduced significant discounts, extended stay packages and exclusive local offers to offset a slowdown in foreign arrivals. Industry executives describe a shift in booking patterns, with cancellations rising in key long-haul markets and advance reservations thinning compared with earlier projections.

Tourism has long been central to Thailand’s economic model, contributing a substantial share of gross domestic product and supporting millions of jobs. The luxury segment, in particular, relies heavily on affluent visitors from Europe, the Middle East, China and North America, many of whom plan trips months in advance. Heightened regional tensions and broader global uncertainties have altered those patterns, prompting travellers to reconsider long-haul leisure plans.

Hotel operators report that destinations such as Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui—traditionally magnets for premium travellers—have experienced a noticeable drop in occupancy rates at the top end of the market. In Bangkok, riverside hotels and internationally branded properties are also seeing softer demand from overseas guests, especially in the high-spending segments that underpin profitability.

To cushion the impact, hotels have rolled out targeted campaigns aimed at residents and expatriates. Weekend staycation deals, dining credits, spa packages and family-oriented promotions have become more prominent. Some properties are offering discounts of 20 to 40 per cent compared with standard peak-season rates, while others are bundling experiences to maintain revenue per guest despite lower room prices.

Industry analysts say the strategy reflects both necessity and opportunity. While domestic travellers typically spend less than international tourists, their presence can help maintain occupancy levels, keep staff employed and sustain ancillary revenue streams such as food and beverage services. Hotels are also leveraging loyalty programmes and partnerships with local banks and airlines to attract repeat customers.

Executives within major hospitality groups indicate that flexibility has become essential. Pricing is being adjusted more frequently in response to shifting demand signals, and marketing efforts are increasingly focused on short-haul markets that may be less sensitive to geopolitical developments. Regional travellers from Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia are being courted alongside domestic guests.

The slowdown in foreign arrivals is not uniform across all markets. Some segments, including travellers from neighbouring countries, continue to show resilience, though not enough to fully offset declines from traditional long-haul sources. Chinese outbound tourism, a key driver before the pandemic, remains uneven, adding another layer of uncertainty for hotel operators.

Government agencies have sought to reassure visitors by emphasising safety measures and the country’s established tourism infrastructure. Promotional campaigns highlighting cultural attractions, wellness tourism and culinary experiences are being amplified to sustain Thailand’s global appeal. However, industry participants acknowledge that external factors—particularly geopolitical tensions—are largely beyond their control.

Airline capacity and flight connectivity also play a critical role. Any reduction in routes or frequency can quickly translate into fewer arrivals, affecting hotel bookings across the spectrum. Conversely, competitive airfares and improved connectivity could help stimulate demand once conditions stabilise.

Luxury hotel operators are also reassessing cost structures to preserve margins. Energy efficiency initiatives, staffing adjustments and renegotiation of supplier contracts are among the measures being implemented. At the same time, there is caution against excessive discounting that could dilute brand positioning in the long term.

Tourism experts note that Thailand has demonstrated resilience in past crises, including political unrest, natural disasters and global health emergencies. Recovery patterns have often been swift once external conditions improve, supported by strong brand recognition and diversified tourism offerings.

The current environment, however, underscores the vulnerability of high-end hospitality to global shocks. Dependence on international travellers exposes the sector to sudden demand fluctuations, prompting calls for a more balanced mix of domestic and regional tourism.

Hotel groups are increasingly investing in digital marketing and data analytics to better understand changing consumer behaviour. Personalised offers, dynamic pricing models and targeted advertising campaigns are being used to capture demand in a more competitive landscape.

This global change will mark a significant step in ML’s ongoing transformation, guided by the “Logisnext Vision 2035“. As part of this process, ML has formed a partnership with Japan Industrial Partners (JIP) as the new strategic partner to support sustainable growth and long-term value creation. Consequently, all group companies will adopt the new company name from 30^th of April.

Commitment to Customers
“While our name is changing, our commitment to customers and dealer partners remains unchanged,” said Yasumitsu Baba, Managing Director of Mitsubishi Logisnext Asia Pacific. “We will continue to provide reliable equipment, trusted services, and solutions that drive customer success, while further strengthening our global alignment.”

Global and Regional Strategy
Logisnext operates globally through four regional hubs: Japan, EAME (Europe, Africa, CIS, and Middle East), Americas, and APAC/C/SA (Asia Pacific, China and South Africa). This structure enables the group to reinforce its position as a leading solutions provider in the logistics industry answering to the local customers’ needs.

In line with the rebrand, the global Logisnext group will implement strategic changes to its brand portfolio in the coming years. These are tailored to the specific needs of each region, ensuring the best fit to serve regional markets. Starting with Japan, “Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks” product lines will rebrand to “Logisnext”.

APAC/C/SA Region Update
In the APAC/C/SA region, the “Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks” will transit to “Logisnext Forklifts” in the coming years as part of the rebranding initiative. During this period and beyond, we are committed to continue offering customers the same dependable engineering, innovative equipment and comprehensive solutions, delivered through our dealer partners. Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks is best known for its Reliability, Quality and Value for Money will continue to be with the “Logisnext Forklifts” brand, customers can expect same ownership experience and satisfaction.

Transition and Support
Throughout this transition, MLAP is prioritising stability and consistency for dealer partners and customers. All current support teams and service structures will remain in place, ensuring a seamless process for all stakeholders.

Hashtag: #MitsubishiLogisnextAsiaPacific #LogisnextAsiaPacific #MitsubishiForkliftTrucks #MitsubishiForklifts #LogisnextForklifts

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Mitsubishi Logisnext Asia Pacific

We are part of Mitsubishi Logisnext that operate globally, based in Kyoto, Japan with presence in Asia, EAME, the Americas, and the Pacific, the Group has a rich history of innovation and is now further strengthening its position as a leading provider of materials handling solutions.

Mitsubishi Logisnext Asia Pacific offers scalable solutions from material handling and extensive fleet support. Headquartered in Singapore, it offers a complete portfolio of advanced counterbalanced, warehouse and automation products and solutions. Other brands in the Mitsubishi Logisnext Asia Pacific portfolio include Cat^® Lift Trucks, TCM, UniCarriers and Nichiyu. All products are backed by an extensive dealer network of 98 dealer locations offering industry-leading customer service and product support.

For more information, visit https://www.logisnext.com.sg