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Prof. Dr. Yodchanan spoke about elevating “SPACE-F Batch 7” to the policy level and building awareness, stating that MHESI aims to present food innovation products from the startups in this batch at the upcoming Cabinet meeting. This will allow the Prime Minister to taste them, raising awareness that FoodTech is the nation’s new future. The products will be presented to the Cabinet in the next two weeks.

Regarding the core concept of combining technology with “Thai taste,” Prof. Dr. Yodchanan emphasized that no matter how advanced the technology is, it must maintain the “Nice taste of Thailand.” He cited a “high-tech omelet” he previously tasted as an example, noting that there is still room for improvement to make it taste closer to an authentic Thai omelet so that the technology can truly win over consumers’ hearts.

The MHESI Minister continued that regarding food innovation under the Wellness Economy, this year focuses on using the Wellness Economy as a New Growth Engine. This is not limited strictly to food but includes AI, ICT, and software, aiming to push Thailand into a global Wellness Tourism Hub with support from the BOI in connecting investment opportunities.

Prof. Dr. Yodchanan further stated that regarding the use of biodiversity and quality ingredients (Biodiversity & GI), startups will be encouraged to utilize Thailand’s rich biodiversity and GI products as substitutes for imported raw materials. This will help reduce costs and create a unique identity.

“As for connecting the ‘Thinker’ with the ‘Doer,’ this program emphasizes linking startups with large industrial corporations and investors. This helps startups in the Accelerator group advance toward Series A or B funding, while helping the Incubator group learn business and pitching experiences from their seniors to cross the business ‘Death Valley.’ Furthermore, regarding food and nutrition security in the era of war: in the current global conditions facing wartime situations, Food Security and Nutrition Security are vital. This program is an opportunity for startups to create innovations that help solve problems for the whole world, with the government working closely with SPACE-F to create new services and products,” the MHESI Minister said.

However, “SPACE-F Batch 7” features 20 participating startups from 10 countries, focusing on the Proof of Concept (POC) strategy to ensure they can tangibly grow toward commercialization on an international scale.

Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (NIA), stated that NIA aims to strengthen the potential of startups and innovative entrepreneurs to overcome business crises and grow commercially in a tangible way. Over the past 6 years, the SPACE-F program has concretely reinforced its role as a regional food innovation hub by incubating and accelerating over 100 startups from 18 countries worldwide, generating a total funding value of over 5.1 billion THB. For the SPACE-F Year 7 program, it marks another major milestone of leapfrog growth, setting a new international record with an all-time high of 204 applicants, continuously increasing from 156 in Cohort 6 and 148 in Cohort 2, reflecting the confidence of global startups in the program’s potential. Concurrently, the program has significantly expanded its international reach, with applicants from 57 countries worldwide, up from 34 countries in the previous cohort, affirming that SPACE-F is a truly global platform connecting and driving world food innovation.

“The SPACE-F program is considered a vital mechanism in driving the development of a strong and comprehensive foodtech startup ecosystem by systematically connecting knowledge, technology, and the industrial sector together. Particularly, it provides opportunities for startups to co-develop and test real products (Proof of Concept: POC) with large corporate partners, as well as access expert networks and world-class infrastructure. This includes testing protein innovations focused on appearance, freshness, and taste with Thai Union; developing modern health and nutrition solutions with ThaiBev and Nestlé; utilizing deep-tech research laboratories from Mahidol University; and enhancing fundraising capabilities from Foodland Ventures, which plays a crucial role in reducing business risks and effectively increasing the chances of commercialization. For SPACE-F Year 7, it aims to elevate startup development through 2 main programs: the Incubator Program, which focuses on laying business foundations and developing prototypes into market-ready products, and the Accelerator Program, which focuses on accelerating business expansion through connections with strategic partners and investors. This covers 7 key areas of the food industry: 1) Personalized Nutrition, 2) Future Protein, 3) Circular Food Systems, 4) Smart Manufacturing, 5) Sustainable Production, 6) Food Safety, and 7) Novel Consumer Experience, to build high-potential startups capable of developing quality new products that directly meet market demands, ready to compete and grow sustainably on the global stage.”

Ms. Sirichit Jiraruangkiat, Senior Director – Group Innovation at Thai Union Group PCL, revealed, “As a co-founding partner of the SPACE-F program, Thai Union Group PCL continues to drive the development of Thailand’s foodtech startup ecosystem. We aim to support breakthrough growth by promoting the development and testing of innovations at the industrial level, particularly through the Proof of Concept (POC) process, to elevate the standards of future protein products to compete internationally. Thai Union prioritizes the application of modern food production and preservation technologies, covering everything from maintaining product quality and freshness and developing appealing appearances to sensory research to create textures and flavors that effectively meet the demands of global consumers. Simultaneously, the SPACE-F program remains committed to a ‘No Equity Taken’ approach, allowing startups to retain full ownership of their innovations, maintain business agility, and grow independently and sustainably in the long term.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pasit Pakawatpanurut, Deputy Dean for Research and Innovation, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, further added, “With expertise in food science, nutrition, biotechnology, and related fields, Mahidol University serves as an academic powerhouse and innovation infrastructure, providing startups with access to advanced laboratories, pilot plants, and modern research equipment. They also receive in-depth consultation from a team of expert researchers to successfully transition research into products that truly meet global market demands (Lab-to-Market). This collaboration is therefore a key mechanism in driving sustainable food innovation and enhancing Thailand’s competitiveness as a global foodtech hub. Mahidol University’s involvement in the SPACE-F program also plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s foodtech startup ecosystem in the long run.”

In addition, another key partner is Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, which places great importance on continuous research and development, believing it to be essential for startups. As a sponsor of the SPACE-F program, they are pleased to be part of an ecosystem that enhances the potential of foodtech startups and provides business and technological guidance to help startups discover solutions that truly meet the needs of the global food market.

Ms. Jenica Conde Cruz, Business Manager – Cereal Partners Worldwide & Incubator at Nestlé (Thai) Ltd., also stated, “Nestlé, a global leader in food and beverages, plays a vital role as a strategic partner of the SPACE-F program. We aim to elevate foodtech startups through the transfer of Research & Development (R&D) knowledge and product development experience under the ‘Good food, Good life’ concept. Nestlé also provides in-depth consultation to support the development of products that meet Nutrition, Health, and Wellness needs, while promoting the use of innovation to tackle global food industry challenges. In parallel, Nestlé also drives the development of innovations that align with sustainability goals by opening opportunities for startups to learn together with experts from our global research center network, in areas of food preservation technology, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible sourcing.”

Victor Chen, CEO of Foodland Ventures Co. closed with, “Foodland Ventures, a leading Venture Capital firm and Accelerator from Taiwan, has joined as a strategic partner in the SPACE-F program to push foodtech startups to expand their businesses into international markets. We aim to act as a bridge connecting innovation from Taiwan with food industry networks in Thailand and Southeast Asia. With expertise in key technologies such as Restaurant Automation, Alternative Protein, and Smart Supply Chain, Foodland Ventures is ready to support startups through access to the Taiwanese market and resources, providing investment and business strategy consultation, and connecting them with the industrial sector to test solutions in real-world environments. This collaboration marks a significant step in building a ‘FoodTech Corridor’ between Thailand and Taiwan to elevate startup potential and drive the food industry toward a sustainable global future.”

The “SPACE-F Year 7” program also introduced 20 startups from 10 countries worldwide: South Korea, Spain, Canada, USA/Argentina, Australia, Singapore, UK, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, and Thailand, selected for this year’s program. All will have the opportunity to co-develop and test real innovations with leading industry partners, covering product development, industrial-level testing, and commercialization in the real market

Such collaboration is a key highlight of the program, providing startups the opportunity to test technology and innovations in real-world environments, reducing development limitations, and increasing the chances of creating business models that accurately meet market demands.

10 FoodTech Startups Joining the Accelerator Program

1. Terra Bioindustries Inc (Canada): Upcycles agricultural and food industry waste into high-value ingredients such as sugar, protein, and fiber for use in the food, biotech, and chemical industries.
2. Nucaps (Spain): Develops functional protein ingredients using microencapsulation technology to wrap active substances and probiotics, enhancing nutritional value, reducing costs, and improving taste to effectively promote consumer health.
3. BeNatureBioLab (South Korea): Develops functional ingredients using nano and microencapsulation technology from natural proteins to wrap active substances and probiotics, increasing the stability, absorption, and efficiency of substances in food, supplements, and health products.
4. Kinava (South Korea): Converts food waste into biofertilizer, biochar, and biogas within hours using HydroThermal Carbonization (HTC) technology, which reduces odor, energy use, and emissions.
5. ComexSoft (Spain): A near real-time market intelligence platform that collects and organizes retail data, matching similar products specifically developed for accurate decision-making.
6. PROTINOS (Thailand): High-protein noodles made from egg whites and soybeans containing complete essential amino acids, created using enzyme incubation techniques, serving as food to help care for and protect health.
7. SicPama (South Korea): A QR ordering and payment platform with a CRM system that links social media with actual service usage and repeat visits, helping restaurants measure returns and increase revenue.
8. Nourish Ingredients (Australia): High-performance animal-free fats created via precision fermentation to solve the taste and texture issues of plant-based alternative foods by mimicking the key fats found in meat and dairy products.
9. Kresko RNAtech (USA/Argentina): Nutrients from biological RNA found in natural foods, developed by AI and biotechnology to be more stable and better absorbed, for use in dietary supplements and health products.
10. Agrifreeze (Singapore): Develops freezing technology using Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) to control the formation of small ice crystals, reducing food damage and maintaining quality close to fresh products.

10 FoodTech Startups Joining the Incubator Program

1. Eatwellconcept (Thailand): An AI-powered personalized therapeutic diet platform for NCD patients, offering real-time nutritional guidance by dietitians to improve health and quality of life.
2. AmaranthLab (UK): Protein ingredients from amaranth for GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) nutrition to control blood sugar levels and satiety, for use in various functional food products.
3. Openfarming (Saudi Arabia): An AI operating system for food distributors that converts orders from multiple channels into real-time data, enabling automated demand forecasting and dynamic inventory management without changing existing workflows.
4. Zuppar Reborn (Thailand): Biodegradable fruit and bakery stickers made from pineapple waste, replacing plastic labels with an alternative that can decompose into fertilizer.
5. VeriPura (Thailand/Singapore): An AI and Blockchain platform for automated document management and product traceability, making food exports to Europe easier and more compliant with regulations (EU).
6. YiXingYuan (Taiwan): A modular small-scale fruit processing factory (Factory-in-a-box) utilizing High Voltage Electric Field (HVEF) technology to process fruits directly at the source, preserving product quality while reducing energy use, costs, and spoilage.
7. JOLA (Thailand): Vitamin-infused jelly pet food that develops DIY treat products, such as jellies for dogs and cats, focusing on natural ingredients, good nutrition, and creating a shared experience between owners and pets.
8. UPLI (UK): A precision fermentation platform to create functional proteins with characteristics similar to human breast milk, used to increase nutritional value in food at an industrial scale.
9. Emerald Plast (Thailand): Biodegradable food materials and packaging made from starch and bioplastics to replace traditional plastics, reducing environmental impact and enhancing sustainability image.
10. Squizify (Thailand): A digital food safety platform integrating software and IoT devices to automatically track, monitor, and manage food business standards, complete with real-time data analysis.

Hashtag: #NIA #NationalInnovationAgency

https://www.nia.or.th/

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Opening remarks were delivered by Yuan Lin, Executive Assistant to the President of the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies, and Wang Donghai, Associate Director of NUS Enterprise. Keynote speeches were delivered by Cai Yiyu, Professor at Nanyang Technological University; Director of the Computer-Aided Engineering Labs and The Strategic Research Program on Virtual Reality; Co-President of Association of Global Technomics Education and Exchange; Cui Kai, Director of the Digital Culture Promotion Department, Center for International Cultural Communication, China International Communications Group (CICG); and Yang Jianwei, Visiting Professor at the National University of Singapore.

Yuan Lin stated that the rapid development of artificial intelligence technology has injected new momentum into China-Singapore cultural exchanges. He stressed the importance of innovating cultural expression forms empowered by digital intelligence, upholding a correct value orientation in technological application, deepening people-to-people exchanges enabled by smart technologies, and actively exploring the profound value of intelligent technologies in advancing cross-cultural understanding.

Wang Donghai pointed out that it is essential to prioritize the integration of technological applications with social needs. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence to build bridges for civilizational exchange helps enhance cross-cultural understanding, enabling technology to better serve humanity and drive social progress.

Cai Yiyu noted that Singapore is forging ahead in cutting-edge fields including semiconductors, aerospace and artificial intelligence, opening up broad prospects for bilateral cooperation between China and Singapore. He emphasized that digital and intelligent technologies can be harnessed to revitalize and inherit traditional culture via youthful, trendy formats, thereby further deepening scientific, technological and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

Cui Kai stated that intelligent imaging technology is profoundly reshaping the logic of cross-cultural narrative. Digital content creation is not merely about keeping pace with technological advancement; more importantly, it should take emotional resonance as the bond to break down cultural barriers, foster in-depth empathy, mutual learning and appreciation among global civilizations, and enable more outstanding civilizational achievements to be seen, understood and respected worldwide.

Yang Jianwei noted that artificial intelligence is becoming an important vehicle for inter-civilizational mutual learning, while cultural differences remain a core obstacle to cross-cultural communication. He advocated for the innovative and rational use of artificial intelligence in the future to eliminate prejudices and enhance civilizational understanding through technological power.

In the Case Sharing Session, guest speakers included Lisa Meng, Head of Singapore of Tencent Cloud International; Koh Chin Yee, Managing Director of Singapore Eye; Bai Yu, Director and Partner of LAiPIC; Hu Chengchen, Founder & CEO of ClariPpi (Singapore); Jane Zhao, SVP and Head of Global Business at Mininglamp Technology; and Jerry Tuo, AI Technology Director of Red Fun Planet. They delivered insightful presentations on the application prospects of artificial intelligence in content production as well as inter-civilizational mutual learning and exchange.

The participating guests agreed that artificial intelligence has brought revolutionary changes to the intelligent production, targeted communication and immersive presentation of cultural content. China and Singapore boast strong complementarity in digital infrastructure and cultural resources. Going forward, the two sides may deepen cooperation in joint research and development and scenario-based application, develop benchmark cultural-technology products and integrated solutions tailored for Southeast Asia, and jointly advance the high-quality development of the digital cultural industry.

This event was jointly hosted by the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies and the Center for International Cultural Communication,CICG, with Nanyang Technological University and other cultural and business exchange institutions participating as supporting partners.

Hashtag: #ACCWS

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Porsche Design Tower Bangkok has intensified competition in Southeast Asia’s branded residence market after being presented to global yacht collectors at the Singapore Yachting Festival 2026 as a limited-edition property aimed at ultra-high-net-worth buyers seeking design pedigree, privacy and collectible real estate.

The 21-storey tower, rising 95 metres on Sukhumvit 38 in Bangkok’s Thonglor district, is being developed through a collaboration between Porsche Design and Ananda Development. It is the first Porsche Design Tower in Asia and the third worldwide after projects linked to Miami and Stuttgart, placing Bangkok within a small group of cities being used by luxury lifestyle brands to extend their reach beyond products and into residential property.

The project will comprise only 22 duplex and quadplex Sky Villas, with residences ranging from about 525 to 1,135 square metres. Prices have been positioned from about $15 million to $40 million, making the development one of the most expensive residential offerings in Thailand’s capital. Construction is scheduled to begin before completion targeted for the end of 2028, while the show suite in Bangkok is available by private appointment.

The presentation in Singapore marked a sharper effort to reach buyers whose interests overlap with luxury mobility, yachting, design and private collections. Rather than selling the tower as a conventional condominium, the marketing places it in the category of a scarce lifestyle asset. That approach reflects a wider shift in luxury property, where affluent buyers are increasingly drawn to homes that combine brand identity, service standards, security and membership-like exclusivity.

A defining feature of the Bangkok tower is the “Passion Space” concept, a private garage and display area attached to each residence. These spaces are designed for car collections, private gatherings or personal pursuits, and are accessed through a central spiral car ramp known as “The Loop”. The arrangement gives the building its most distinctive automotive link, turning the owner’s vehicle collection into part of the residential experience rather than a separate amenity.

The tower’s design also draws on Porsche cues. Its automated terrace system is inspired by the movement of the Porsche 911 Targa roof, while the exposed “X-Frame” structure takes references from the Mission R concept car. A lit crown at the top of the building is intended to create a night-time signature on Bangkok’s skyline. The interior proposition includes private lifts, large entertainment areas, wellness zones, pools and high-end kitchen and bathroom fittings.

Chanond Ruangkritya, president and chief executive of Ananda Development, has positioned the tower as a project that embeds Porsche’s design language into the structure rather than merely attaching a name to a luxury address. The developer is betting that a small pool of regional and international buyers will pay a premium for scarcity, brand association and the ability to personalise large-scale residences in a prime district.

Bangkok provides a strong setting for that strategy. Thonglor remains one of the capital’s most established luxury neighbourhoods, with restaurants, retail, wellness services and transport links that appeal to wealthy local residents, expatriates and regional buyers. The city has also become an important hub for branded residences, helped by tourism, medical services, international schools and its role as a base for high-net-worth families across Asia.

The project arrives as Thailand’s luxury property market shows a split trend. Mass-market condominium developers have faced weaker purchasing power, tighter lending and slower absorption, while the highest end of the market has remained more resilient because buyers are less dependent on mortgages. Limited freehold land in central Bangkok, rising construction costs and demand for larger, service-rich homes have supported pricing in prime locations.

The ultra-luxury segment, however, is not without risk. A 22-unit tower reduces supply pressure but also narrows the buyer base sharply. Sales depend on a small number of wealthy purchasers who must accept not only high upfront prices but also long-term maintenance costs associated with specialised amenities, private garages and brand-level service expectations. Foreign ownership limits for condominiums in Thailand also restrict the share available to non-Thai buyers.

Having led 100+ Hong Kong tech firms to SE Asia over the past year, accelerating global expansion through strategic collaboration

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation continues to deepen its innovation and technology (I&T) collaboration with Southeast Asia, actively playing an orchestrating role in supporting Hong Kong’s tech firms go global. HKSTP debuted as an official exhibitor at Southeast Asia’s largest public safety conference, Milipol TechX Summit 2026 (MTX 2026). Under the theme “Supercharging Innovation for Our Safer Tomorrow”, MTX 2026 is a strategic platform to advance business opportunities through government-backed collaboration. HKSTP showcased 10 park companies presenting breakthrough public safety solutions and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore’s TechX Ventures (TechX, a private subsidiary by the HTX – Home Team Science and Technology Agency of Singapore) — HKSTP’s first MoU signed with an organization in Southeast Asia — establishing a structured framework to advance cross-border innovation partnerships focused on practical applications in public safety.

Singapore and Hong Kong share a substantive relationship, grounded in regular high-level engagement. These include the Prime Minister of Singapore’s official visit to Hong Kong last month, during which he met with the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and visited the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (the Hong Kong Park in the Loop). The I&T connection also features HKSTP-led delegations to Singapore platforms such as Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH) and SLINGSHOT 2025, etc. Over the past year, more than 100 HKSTP park companies explored Southeast Asian opportunities, securing over HK$25 million in confirmed business deals with additional potential contracts exceeding HK$20 million directly supported by HKSTP.

Eric Or, Chief Ecosystem Development Officer, HKSTP, said, “At HKSTP, we enable innovators to solve real public safety challenges where trust and demonstrated results matter most. Collaborating with TechX and Singapore’s Public Safety ecosystem gives ventures faster access to decision-makers, enables solution testing in operational environments, and supports scaling validated technologies across Asia.”

Eric Chua, Chief Executive Officer, TechX Ventures said: “SPINN District was designed to be more than a startup village — it is a proving ground where bold founders showcase innovations that matter. Seeing HKSTP’s park companies engage meaningfully with the global public safety ecosystem at MTX 2026 reflects exactly the kind of cross-border momentum we built this platform for. This MoU marks the beginning of something lasting: a structured pipeline that turns innovation into operational impact, as we work together to build a safer world.”

The collaboration between HKSTP and TechX is aimed to establish a comprehensive framework to identify, co-create, and validate operational public safety solutions. Under the partnership, HKSTP and its counterparts will move from identified needs to real deployment through annual solution scouting visits to Hong Kong Science Park, funding of around HK$600,000 (S$100,000) per company for proof-of-concept trials with Singapore Public Safety experts, and an ongoing exchange of challenges and insights. This demand-led model accelerates problem-solution fit and reinforces HKSTP’s leadership in regional safety technology collaboration.

The HKSTP Pavilion, themed “Hong Kong’s Technology for Public Safety and Security — Global Application and Global Impact,” featured 10 park companies showcasing solutions proven in deployments across Hong Kong enforcement departments, the Greater Bay Area, and Singapore-related projects. Cutting-edge public safety technologies were showcased across AI-Driven & Robotics, Network & Communications Infrastructure, and Drones, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) & Low-altitude Economy (LAE). MTX is the largest public safety conference in Southeast Asia, the HKSTP pavilion is strategically positioned within the startup-centric SPINN District, effectively facilitated targeted engagements, secured curated matching opportunities with Singapore government agencies for each participating company, and advanced pilot projects and partnerships.

Park companies eSIX and Weitu AI participated in the signature global innovation challenge Dimension X Cohort 6 and the inaugural cohort of the In-Beta tech verification capability programme organized by Hatch, the innovation centre of Singapore’s HTX, achieving significant success. These companies were the only Hong Kong representatives selected for the programmes, underscoring the global competitiveness and real-world impact of Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem. eSIX, which delivers patented high-speed networking for Industrial IoT and 5G-enabled remote machine control, was awarded a place at Dimension X. The company received S$100,000 in prize money to complete a four-month proof-of-concept and was invited to showcase its solutions. Weitu AI, which provides world-leading multimodal video understanding for fast, accurate analysis across industries was awarded a place at In-Beta, received S$30,000 in prize money with opportunities to verify their promising tech through rapid experimentation and onsite demo.

Building on existing engagement across the region, HKSTP will continue to strengthen collaboration with regional partners, expand support for park companies, and promote technology‑driven solutions that enhance safety and resilience. The initiative reflects HKSTP’s ongoing commitment to fostering sustained innovation and regional cooperation.

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), established in 2001, has built a thriving innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem in Hong Kong, supporting 12 unicorns, nurturing over 17,000 research talents, and hosting more than 2,500 technology companies from 26 countries and regions specializing in biomedicine, AI and robotics, fintech, and smart city development. HKSTP is dedicated to positioning Hong Kong as an international I&T hub.

To align with Hong Kong’s future development, HKSTP is committed to attracting and cultivating I&T talent, accelerating the commercialization of innovative outcomes, and providing comprehensive support for technology companies and professionals on their innovation journey. Its vibrant I&T ecosystem continues to grow, encompassing Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong, and three InnoParks in Tai Po, Yuen Long, and Tseung Kwan O. These facilities drive advancements in applied technology, focusing on industries such as advanced manufacturing, micro- electronics, and biotechnology, steering Hong Kong toward new industrialization.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch, located in Futian, Shenzhen, leverages the strategic advantage of “support of the Motherland, connecting to the world.” It serves as a bridge for “bringing in and going global,” actively fostering cross-border I&T collaboration. The Shenzhen Branch supports global technology companies and professionals by providing research and collaboration spaces, with a focus on enterprises in seven key sectors: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech, and sustainable development.

HKSTP is dedicated to advancing Hong Kong’s I&T development by providing research infrastructure, startup and enterprise support services, professional investment and business expertise, fostering partnership networks, and attracting top talent. These efforts drive innovation as a new engine for economic growth for Hong Kong.

More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.

About TechX Ventures

TechX Ventures is a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore’s Home Team Science & Technology Agency (HTX) that operates at the intersection of government mandate and entrepreneurial drive. TechX serves as the engine behind a thriving innovation ecosystem where cutting-edge science and technology are put to work protecting people.

At the heart of it, TechX is established to connect global innovators and partners in advancing public safety innovation. Guided by our Safer World philosophy — the belief that progress means nothing if it doesn’t safeguard public safety — TechX approaches safety not as a sector, but as a shared mission. This conviction shapes every partnership forged, every programme designed, and every measure of success. Safety, at TechX, is our purpose.

TechX delivers its mission through two core areas of expertise: to build and to connect. TechX designs and develops innovation initiatives and programmes alongside partners from across the globe, including flagship platforms such as HTX’s Innovation Centre, Hatch — a structured innovation centre that gives frontier deep-tech a clear pathway to validate and deploy solutions for real public safety challenges. TechX also bridges industry, startups, and government agencies into a global network, producing landmark events such as Millipol TechX, and bringing international communities like DEF CON® to Singapore for the first time.

With active partnerships spanning over 30 ecosystems globally — from Hong Kong to South Korea, and the United States, TechX sits at the heart of a growing worldwide alliance united by one ambition: Bringing Together a Safer World.

• New strategy highlights synergy among Global Payment, Global Account and Inclusive and Embedded Finance services built on progress in AI and interoperability.
• As a foundation to the business, Ant International’s global payment services support over 300 payment methods, including more than 10 national QR systems and 50 digital wallets and bank apps, and exceed 20 million daily transactions on average.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2026 – Ant International now connects over 150 million global merchants with more than 2 billion user accounts globally, the company disclosed at its flagship MoMents 2026 fintech executive forum in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Ant International is a leading global digital payment, digitisation and financial technology provider. The company now supports 300+ payment methods in over 220 markets, including all card schemes, 50 mobile payment partners and more than 10 national QR systems, including Singapore’s SGQR, Malaysia’s DuitNow, South Korea’s ZeroPay, Thailand’s PromptPay, Indonesia’s QRIS, Sri Lanka’s LankaPay, and more. It recently onboarded more leading global e-wallets and bank apps such as iFAST Global Bank from the UK, KBank and SCB from Thailand, barq from Saudi Arabia and ShopeePay from Southeast Asia.

With an average of over 20 million transactions daily, Ant International is building broader market reach through new licenses and partnerships in Asia, Latin America and EMEA. In Vietnam, it partners with NAPAS and Vietcombank to roll out cross-border QR payment service, and is also working with the Ho Chi Minh City government on the development of an international financial centre. In Latin America, it formed a strategic partnership with Mexican fintech company R2 in late 2025, supporting the expansion of SME lending across the region. In the Middle East, Ant International collaborates with the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) and national payment network mada, with plans to introduce Alipay+ cross-border QR payments in 2026. Its recent initiatives also include plans to roll out Islamic finance programs in Southeast Asia and other emerging markets.

While serving businesses in their global expansion, Ant International also ranks in first place in terms of the number of global accounts it has been managing for businesses, particularly SMEs, engaged in cross-border commerce.

“New models of financial interoperability and AI commerce give us powerful tools to help global giants as well as mom-and-pop shops to increase resilience and expand revenue streams,” said Peng Yang, CEO, Ant International. “A broader and deeper network means we can work with more partners on more levels to deliver more innovative, trusted, and high ROI fintech solutions in the world’s fastest growing markets.”

Layered solutions for enterprises, SMEs and emerging markets to achieve inclusive growth

Yang underlined a strategy to combine the forces of its four main businesses – Alipay+, Antom, Bettr and WorldFirst – to offer more connected growth solutions for businesses of all sizes.

• Global payment: Making payments a growth engine for businesses of all sizes to thrive in the global digital economy.
• Global account: Enabling AI-powered borderless global accounts for businesses of all sizes, and serving as the ticket to digital trade and commerce. This makes ‘born global’ a reality for all businesses from day one.
• Strategic value boosters: Leveraging innovation and technology to deliver embedded financing, credit and treasury solutions that power inclusive growth.
• Innovation and technology leadership: Grounded in extensive expertise in supporting global payments and businesses of all sizes, Ant International’s leading AI and blockchain solutions are co-developed with customers, partners and regulators to deliver real impact while ensuring security and compliance.

Go-to-market FinAI solutions for real-world problem solving

Working with top LLMs, card schemes and other fintechs, Ant International builds out FinAI capacities and solutions for merchants and financial institutions to tackle real-world growth and security challenges. Key examples include:

Agentic Mobile Protocol (AMP)

At MoMents 2026, Ant International has introduced the open-sourced AMP – the world’s first agentic payment framework designed for mobile interfaces – to help drive AI commerce. The protocol enables secure, AIOps-native agentic payment connection to mobile services including digital wallets, banking apps, super apps, and mobile portals from phones to wearable devices.

AI-as-a-Service Platform

Ant International’s AI-as-a-Service platform GenAI Cockpit equips fintech partners with tools to build a wide range of agentic solutions, from customer-service assistants to sales copilots. Malaysia’s leading e-wallet TNG eWallet, and easypaisa, Pakistan’s first digital bank, are using the platform to deliver better customer experiences with AI.

AI SHIELD

Ant International’s 3-in-1 risk management transformer maintains trust in the ecosystem by providing a robust security layer underpinning all transactions processed by the company. The model is supported by over 7 billion parameters, and combines graph, sequential and tabular data to identify high-risk transactions with over 95% precision, while improving payment success rates by up to 13.5%.

Falcon TST AI FX model

The industry-first MoE-based AI FX model makes long-term forecasts with prediction accuracy of up to 93%, leveraging over 8.5 billion parameters. Deployed internally at Ant International to manage cashflow and FX exposure on an hourly, daily and weekly basis, Falcon TST has helped to cut the company’s FX costs by up to 60%. The model was open-sourced in 2025 to expand access to its capabilities and invite collaboration to advance time-series learning.

EPOS360

A pioneering AI-powered SME app, EPOS360 integrates practical AI tools with POS system, payments, banking, financing and growth operations for small businesses. The suite of AI-powered tools and payment capabilities was launched in Singapore, and is also available to merchants in Malaysia as a mini-programme via TNG eWallet.

Antom Copilot

Antom Copilot provides automation and assistance for merchants based on learnings from real-world cases, improving efficiency of services such as chargeback dispute handling by up to 46%. Within a year of its launch, 72% of Antom-onboarded merchants completed self-service payment integration with the copilot.

At the MoMents 2026 fintech executive forum held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, executives from global payment networks, banks, fintechs, tech companies, and governors came together to discuss the future of financial services in the era of AI commerce. Conversations focused on new forms of payment transformation, multi-layer global interoperability, super app evolution with AI-native tech, innovation of Islamic financing and initiatives around trust and security.

Ant International launched its Digital Business Center in Kuala Lumpur in 2024.
Hashtag: #AntInternational

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

About Ant International

Ant International is a leading global digital payment, digitisation and financial technology provider. Through collaboration across the private and public sectors, our unified techfin platform supports financial institutions and merchants of all sizes to achieve inclusive growth through a comprehensive range of cutting-edge digital payment and financial services solutions. To learn more, please visit https://www.ant-intl.com/

Built on the belief that university life extends far beyond lectures and examinations, Project 1095 represents SIM GE’s vision of a fully integrated student experience where academic learning is complemented by co-curricular engagement leadership development and personal growth. At the heart of this initiative lies a vibrant ecosystem of student clubs which play a pivotal role in shaping a meaningful and transformative university experience.

With more than 80 student led clubs across sports arts culture special interest groups and student governance SIM GE provides students with diverse opportunities to explore their passions, build communities and develop essential life skills.

A Structured Approach to Holistic Education

Project 1095 named after the 1095 days that make up a typical three-year university programme offers a structured framework that encourages students to make the most of their time on campus. Rather than viewing student life as supplementary, SIM GE positions it as an integral part of the educational journey.

Through this framework student clubs serve as practical platforms for experiential learning, enabling students to apply classroom knowledge in real world settings. Whether organising large scale campus events, leading committees or collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds, students gain hands on experience that fosters confidence, adaptability and resilience.

Fostering Belonging in a Diverse Campus Community

Beyond skills development, student clubs are instrumental in cultivating a strong sense of belonging among SIM GE’s diverse student population. With a wide range of international cultural and interest-based groups, students can connect with like-minded peers while also broadening their perspectives through cross cultural interaction.

Project 1095 emphasises this aspect of community building, recognising that a supportive and engaging campus environment contributes significantly to overall student wellbeing and success. By participating in club activities students are encouraged to form meaningful relationships and create lasting memories throughout their university journey in SIM.

Preparing Future Ready Graduates

As employers increasingly seek graduates with strong interpersonal and leadership skills, SIM GE’s focus on co-curricular engagement aligns closely with industry expectations. Through its student clubs and Project 1095 framework, students actively take on roles such as organising campus wide events, leading club committees, managing projects and collaborating with peers across diverse backgrounds. These hands-on experiences enable students to develop critical competencies including leadership, communication, teamwork and problem solving in real world settings. For instance, students gain practical exposure by planning large scale events, coordinating with stakeholders and taking ownership of initiatives, allowing them to translate classroom knowledge into actionable skills.

Through Project 1095, SIM GE aims to produce well rounded graduates who are not only academically prepared but also equipped with confidence and global outlook needed to thrive in an evolving workforce.

Making Everyday Count

Project 1095 underscores SIM GE’s belief that university is more than earning a degree, it is about making every one of the 1095 days meaningful. By embedding student clubs and co-curricular experiences into the student journey, SIM GE delivers a holistic education that goes beyond the classroom. Through these experiences, students are empowered to grow, build connections and develop the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic global environment.

References

1. Life at SIM CCA – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/co-curricular-activities
2. SIM Global Education – https://www.sim.edu.sg
3. Project 1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg
4. Building Leadership Through CCAs Enhancing the SIM Experience – https://regional.simge.edu.sg/en/building-leadership-through-ccas-enhancing-the-sim-experience/

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

https://www.sim.edu.sg/

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg

Modern Platform Enhances Business Travel Within Energy, Marine, Mining and Other Complex Sectors

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 April 2026 – Direct Travel today announced the expansion of Avenir, its global travel platform, across its specialty market divisions, including Energy, Marine and Mining. Delivered through ATPI’s specialist businesses, Avenir provides a single global platform and unified service model for executive and project-based business travel, complementing the company’s established sector specific logistics and workforce mobility solutions.

With this expansion, organizations operating in complex and logistically demanding environments will benefit from a more consistent and scalable approach to business travel, bringing modern infrastructure to corporate travel while continuing to rely on proven specialist solutions for crew and workforce logistics.

A Comprehensive Approach to Specialty Travel
Industries such as energy, marine and mining manage multiple types of travel simultaneously, from large scale workforce and crew movements to executive, commercial and project travel. These needs are fundamentally different and require distinct solutions.

Avenir is designed to support traditional business travel within these sectors, bringing structure and consistency to:

• Executive leadership travel
• Commercial and client facing teams
• Project based and technical specialists

This sits alongside ATPI’s established specialist services, which continue to manage:

• Crew and workforce mobility
• Offshore and rotational travel
• Highly customized logistics to remote and complex destinations

Together, this creates a more coordinated and complete travel framework.

Strengthening Sector Expertise with a Modern Business Travel Platform
Avenir enhances ATPI’s specialist offerings by introducing a consistent global foundation for business travel, while preserving the depth and specialization of existing solutions.

“Our long-standing leadership in specialty travel is built on deep sector expertise and a strong focus on our customers, and we remain committed to strengthening how we serve these markets,” said Christal Bemont, Chief Executive Officer of Direct Travel. “As travel becomes more complex, that foundation becomes even more important. Avenir is an important step forward, giving our customers a more consistent approach to global business travel, combined with the specialized solutions they rely on to support their operations.”

Energy
With decades of experience supporting global energy organizations, ATPI delivers specialized travel solutions across offshore, project and executive travel. From complex international operations to high risk environments, the focus is on operational continuity, cost control and the safety and wellbeing of traveling personnel.

Marine
With a long history in maritime travel, ATPI supports global shipping and offshore organizations with highly coordinated travel services. Expertise in crew movements, vessel rotations and global logistics ensures reliable, efficient operations across ports and regions worldwide.

Mining and Other Specialty Markets
In mining and similarly complex sectors, ATPI provides tailored travel management solutions designed for remote operations and workforce mobility. This includes managing fly in fly out schedules, navigating challenging destinations and supporting safe, efficient travel for workers and project teams globally.

Specialist Technology and Capabilities
These sector specific services are supported by ATPI’s specialist technology and service capabilities, including Crewhub and Crewlink, which are designed to manage workforce mobility and crew travel at scale.

Improving Visibility and Consistency for Business Travel
While workforce and crew travel remain highly specialized, business travel within these sectors is often managed across fragmented regional systems.

Avenir brings greater consistency by enabling:

• One global platform for business travel across regions
• Centralized visibility and governance for travel and finance teams
• Standardized policies with controlled local flexibility
• A consistent traveler experience for employees worldwide

The result is better oversight, improved efficiency and a more streamlined experience for business travelers operating within complex global organizations.
Hashtag: #atpi #directravel #avenir #globaltravelplatform

https://www.dt.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/directtravelinc

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

About Direct Travel, Inc

Direct Travel is one of the world’s largest travel management companies, focused on delivering exceptional, innovative solutions to every client and traveler. With a long history of proven market expertise, we blend advanced technology, superior service and expert insight to drive tangible value and meaningful savings across Corporate Travel, Leisure Travel, Meetings & Events and specialty travel businesses.

Through Avenir, our next-generation platform developed with leading technology partners, we provide the industry’s broadest inventory and a modern, real-time shopping experience that empowers travelers and simplifies program management. What truly sets us apart is the human care behind the technology, delivered by an experienced, passionate team dedicated to anticipating needs and delivering exceptional service at every step.

For more information about Direct Travel, visit www.dt.com

For more information about Energy, Marine, and Mining specialty travel, visit: https://www.atpi.com/energy-travel/, https://www.atpi.com/marine-travel/ and https://www.atpi.com/mining-travel/

The city’s merchandise trade gap widened to HK$89.1 billion in March 2026, equal to 12.6 per cent of the value of imports. Total exports rose 35.8 per cent year on year to HK$618.4 billion, while imports jumped 41.2 per cent to HK$707.5 billion, underscoring the unusual scale of the surge in cross-border goods flows through one of Asia’s main trading hubs.

The figures point to a mixed signal for Hong Kong’s externally oriented economy. Export growth was the strongest since early 2021, reflecting robust global demand for electronic components, telecommunications equipment, semiconductors and related supply-chain goods. Yet the sharper rise in imports left the city with a deficit larger than any monthly gap recorded over more than seven decades, highlighting the pressure created by front-loaded purchases, supply-chain repositioning and higher input costs.

For the first quarter of 2026, total exports climbed 32 per cent from a year earlier, while imports increased 37 per cent. The visible trade deficit for the quarter reached HK$168.4 billion, equivalent to 9.8 per cent of imports. On a seasonally adjusted basis, exports rose 18.4 per cent from the previous quarter, while imports advanced 20 per cent.

The most striking gains came from technology-linked categories. Exports of electrical machinery, apparatus, appliances and related parts rose by HK$99.8 billion, or 47.9 per cent, in March from a year earlier. Telecommunications and sound recording equipment exports increased by HK$40.2 billion, or 94.7 per cent, while non-ferrous metals shipments rose by HK$10.2 billion, or 175.9 per cent.

Imports showed a similar pattern, but with larger absolute increases in several categories. Purchases of electrical machinery and related parts grew by HK$106.2 billion, or 49.5 per cent. Telecommunications and sound recording equipment imports rose by HK$45.3 billion, or 93 per cent. Non-ferrous metals imports surged by HK$30.4 billion, a rise of more than 400 per cent, suggesting strong demand for materials used in electronics, data-centre infrastructure and advanced manufacturing supply chains.

The widening deficit also reflects Hong Kong’s role as a re-export centre rather than a conventional manufacturing economy. Goods imported into the city often move onwards to mainland China, Southeast Asia, the United States and Europe after financing, logistics, testing, repackaging or redistribution. During periods of strong global technology demand, import values can rise faster than exports if companies build inventories, reroute shipments or accelerate procurement to avoid transport delays.

Geopolitical tensions have added another layer of volatility. The war in the Middle East has pushed up energy prices, raised shipping risks and complicated trade routes linking Asia with Europe and the Gulf. Higher freight and insurance costs can lift the recorded value of imports, while uncertainty over maritime routes may encourage companies to bring forward shipments or diversify logistics channels. Hong Kong, with its deep financial links and dense regional supply-chain networks, is exposed to those shifts even when final demand originates elsewhere.

The export destination data showed broad-based strength across Asia and beyond. Shipments to Singapore more than doubled, while exports to Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan and mainland China recorded strong gains. Exports to the United States also rose sharply, reflecting resilient demand for electronics and technology-linked goods despite continuing trade friction and tariff risks. Shipments to the United Kingdom declined, indicating uneven demand across advanced markets.

On the import side, increases were recorded from most major suppliers. Purchases from the United Kingdom, Korea, India, Vietnam, the United States and mainland China all rose substantially, underlining the geographically diverse nature of the procurement surge. Mainland China remained central to the city’s trade flows, both as a supplier and destination, while Southeast Asian economies continued to gain prominence in electronics and component supply chains.

The data suggest that Hong Kong is benefiting from the global investment race in artificial intelligence, cloud computing and advanced electronics, but the gains come with greater exposure to external shocks. Demand for AI servers, chips, networking equipment and related components has lifted trade volumes across Asia, while higher energy prices and shipping uncertainty are adding costs and complicating timing decisions for importers.

The certification, valid for two years, was formally presented during a ceremony held at SESC – Casa do Comércio in Salvador – in March. With this achievement, Bracell joins 111 companies and organisations recognised in the 2026 edition, reinforcing its role in fostering a fairer, safer and more inclusive work environment for women.

Bracell’s recognition reflects a structured, long-term strategy anchored in its Bracell 2030 sustainability plan, which includes a commitment to achieving 30% female representation in leadership roles by the end of the decade. The company has implemented a range of targeted initiatives to support this goal, focusing on talent attraction, development and retention.

“Promoting gender equality is directly connected to our sustainability strategy,” said Angela Ribeiro, Sustainability Manager at Bracell Bahia, who represented the company at the ceremony. “Attracting and retaining female talent is a key pillar of Bracell 2030, and we are committed to building pathways for women to grow and lead within our organisation.”

Among the company’s flagship initiatives is the Development Path for Women under the Cultivating Potential programme, which combines technical training, career acceleration and support policies. Bracell also offers exclusive English-language training for senior analysts and above, supporting continuous professional development.

The company’s Diversity Programme further strengthens inclusion through a Gender Affinity Group composed of employee volunteers who propose and help implement initiatives in collaboration with Human Resources. Notable actions include the establishment of breastfeeding support rooms and the extension of maternity leave from 120 to 180 days.

Bracell, a member of the RGE group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, has also expanded access to employment opportunities through its Acelera Programme, which targets local community talent with no prior experience and reserves positions for women. In recruitment, the company recommends including at least one female candidate in final selection stages for analyst-level roles and above. By 2025, women accounted for 33% of new hires at Bracell’s Bahia operations.

To ensure fairness in career progression, Bracell conducts regular salary equity analyses aimed at maintaining equal compensation and advancement opportunities for men and women. The company also actively engages male leaders in diversity and inclusion efforts through training on inclusive leadership and unconscious bias, as well as ongoing awareness initiatives.

“The Lilac Seal recognises not only the progress we have made but also our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality,” said Lorena Brasil, Human Resources (Organisational Human Development) Manager at Bracell Bahia. “Our strategic initiatives strengthen the attraction, development, and retention of female talent, reinforcing diversity and inclusion as priorities across all areas of the organisation.”
Hashtag: #RGE #Bracell #Bracell2030 #Brazil #award #genderequality #sustainability

https://www.bracell.com/

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

About Bracell

Bracell is a global leader in the production of dissolving pulp and specialty cellulose with two main mill operations in Brazil in Bahia and São Paulo. In addition to its operations in Brazil, Bracell has a management office in Singapore and sales offices in Asia, Europe and the U.S.

Please visit Bracell’s website for more information.

• Rhenus Group acquires remaining 49 percent of LBH Group, achieving full ownership
• Partnership further strengthens global maritime and port logistics network
• LBH continues operating under its renowned brand while maintaining its recognized service quality

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 April 2026 – Rhenus Group announced the successful closing of the acquisition of the remaining 49 percent stake in LBH Global Agencies Inc. LBH Group is a globally active port agency with business sites in 24 countries worldwide. As an international maritime shipping agency, LBH Group manages incoming and outgoing vessels handling bulk goods, liquid cargo, containers, and general cargo. With the acquisition of the remaining shares from the Lagendijk family, the company is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Rhenus – a strategic step that has been pursued since the two companies joined forces in 2023. For many years, both parties have fostered a close and trustful relationship based on a shared goal.

Joined expertise for strong international customer service

The partnership between Rhenus and LBH Group was initially established with the shared objective of combining LBH’s global reach in port agency services with the international logistics network of Rhenus. Since then, the collaboration has strengthened both companies’ capabilities, enabling the development of more comprehensive service offerings and supporting customers with increasingly customized, resilient, and efficient supply chain solutions. Uniting two highly skilled and specialized teams marks another milestone in the Rhenus Group’s strategic growth plan in global trade, aiming to expand its network and foster supply chains worldwide.

Under full ownership, LBH Group will remain a central pillar of the maritime strategy of Rhenus. The company will continue to operate under its established brand, maintaining its market presence and well-recognized service quality. Inspired by the vision of expanding global logistics operations as one global team, the acquisition underscores the importance of reliable partnerships that continue to pave the way for the Rhenus Group’s growth trajectory.

Hashtag: #Rhenus

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

About Rhenus

The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 8.2 billion. 39,000 employees work at 1,300 business sites in more than 70 countries and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.

SINGAPORE – Media Outreach Newswire – 29 April 2026 – Singapore’s SMEs experienced their first easing in borrowing costs in three years, with average unsecured lending rates falling to 8.18% per annum in 2025 from a multi-year high of 8.47% in 2024, according to Linkflow Capital’s latest SME Financing Accessibility Survey. Larger loan approvals above $500,000, which had disappeared entirely in 2024, also returned to form 5% of approvals in 2025.

The recovery, however, was uneven. Bank loan processing times stretched to 33 days on average, up from 22 days in 2024, while non-bank funders disbursed approved cases in just 7 days. The widening gap reshaped lender competition through the year.

Key findings from the 2025 survey:

• Borrowing costs eased modestly: Average SME loan interest rate fell 29 basis points to 8.18% per annum but remain stubbornly high against the backdrop of a significant decline in benchmark 3-month SORA rate throughout 2025.
• Larger loans returned: Approvals above $500K returned to 5% of approved loan dollar volume in 2025 after disappearing entirely in 2024. Loans in the $300K–$500K bracket also expanded from 3% to 7%.
• Loan approval rate recovered to 74%, up from 70% in 2024 (a 5-year low).
• Foreign banks extended their market share of loan origination within our platform: Foreign lenders grew their share of approved loan dollar volume to 38% in 2025, up from 26% in 2024 and 19% in 2023, while local banks fell to 46% (from 59%). Digital banks recovered modestly to 11% (from 8%).
• Credit-related rejections nearly tripled: Among unsuccessful applicants, those rejected due to adverse personal credit records jumped from 3% in 2024 to 11% in 2025, signalling rising personal credit stress among SME owners.

“2025 was the year SME credit conditions began to thaw after the 2024 squeeze, but the recovery was uneven,” said Benjamin Teo, spokesperson for Linkflow Capital. “Banks gradually reopened to larger loans, yet took meaningfully longer to process applications. Some SMEs facing immediate cash flow pressure turned to non-bank funders for speed, even at higher costs.”

A new and more severe headwind for 2026

Linkflow Capital flagged the Middle East conflict which began in February 2026 as the most consequential macroeconomic event facing Singapore SMEs in the year ahead. The conflict has elevated freight, energy and shipping costs through Iran’s intermittent disruption of the Strait of Hormuz.

“Singapore SMEs entered 2026 facing a potential macro shock with the Middle East conflict,” Teo said. “The inflationary price pressures feed directly into SME operating costs through fuel, freight, and energy. We expect credit conditions to re-tighten, and the modest 2025 thaw could partially reverse if the conflict escalates.”

The full survey findings and detailed charts are available at: https://smeloan.sg/blog/2025-sme-finance-accessibility-survey/

Website: smeloan.sg
LinkedIn: sg.linkedin.com/company/linkflow-capital-pte-ltd
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LinkflowSG/
Hashtag: #LinkflowCapital #SMEFinancing #SMELoan #SingaporeSME #BusinessLoan #SMEBanking #SMECredit

https://smeloan.sg/
https://sg.linkedin.com/company/linkflow-capital-pte-ltd
https://www.facebook.com/LinkflowSG/
https://www.instagram.com/linkflow_capital/

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

Linkflow Capital

Founded in 2012, Linkflow Capital is a leading SME loan consultancy in Singapore. Through its loan comparison portal and advisory services, Linkflow Capital assists SMEs in navigating the financing landscape and securing funding solutions from an extensive network of banks and financial institutions.

This year’s AGM saw members returning to Singapore to attend in person, alongside strong participation from those joining virtually.

A year of reset and strategic investment

In 2025, ISCA recorded its first operating deficit in a decade. This was the result of a deliberate decision to invest in areas that will strengthen the Institute’s long-term value to members and the profession. ISCA continues to maintain a strong financial position, with healthy reserves and a resilient balance sheet.

Rather than maintaining the status quo, ISCA undertook a year of reset and renewal, with spending focused on building stronger capabilities, growing the talent pipeline, expanding into new markets and building new growth engines.

ISCA emphasised that these investments were not made for growth alone, but more importantly, to better support members and provide greater member value in a rapidly evolving business and professional landscape.

Looking ahead, ISCA’s priorities remain clear: to deliver a better member experience, strengthen the talent pipeline and enhance its regional relevance. In 2026, the focus will be on ensuring that these investments translate into tangible and visible outcomes for members.

Expanding opportunities through internationalisation

At the AGM, ISCA Council and management addressed members’ questions on the institute’s plans to expand internationally. ISCA’s regional efforts are aimed at making it easier for members to access opportunities beyond Singapore. For members based in Singapore, this means more job opportunities, potential clients and partnerships across the region. For members based overseas, it means stronger local support and a more connected ISCA network where they live and work. ISCA CEO Ms Fann Kor cited an example of a member who had spent over 20 years building his career in China and was looking to return to Singapore. Through ISCA’s network, he was connected to a listed company seeking deep China experience, creating an opportunity that would otherwise have been difficult to access.

Progress across key areas

Despite being an investment year, ISCA reported progress across several areas:

• Membership grew to 43,500, with 11% growth and a 98.3% renewal rate
• ISCA House recorded 30,000 visits, with member satisfaction at 94%
• Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ) candidate numbers grew by 37%, including 400 overseas candidates
• ISCA expanded its regional footprint to 12 overseas chapters across 9 countries, with 6 overseas offices and 3 Professional Services Centres
• Chartered Accountants Lab (CA Lab) readership reached 39,000, across more than 30 countries
• ISCA developed 8 AI agents and implemented 180 system enhancements to improve access and member experience
• ISCA Academy delivered close to 199,000 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours, while reducing average cost per hour by 6% to $37.70
• ISCA Cares marked its 10-year milestone, disbursing $1.5 million and supporting nearly 500 students
• For the first time, SCAQ is being promoted beyond Singapore, making ISCA the first professional body in Asia to promote our national CA qualification overseas
• The SCAQ was embedded in an overseas university for the first time, at Nanjing University of Finance and Economics

2026 ISCA Council Lineup

The newly-elected Council Members are:

• Mr Alan Chang Chi Hsung, Managing Director, OA Assurance PAC
• Ms Chua Siew Hwi, Senior Vice President, Changi Airport Group
• Mr Quah Zheng Wei, CEO, Accredify Pte Ltd
• Ms Tan Aik Na, Senior Vice President (Administration), Nanyang Technological University
• Ms Yong Zen Yun, Partner, General Assurance Leader, Pricewaterhousecoopers LLP

The re-elected Council Members are:

• Ms Jocelyn Goh Chern Ni, Audit & Assurance Partner, BDO LLP
• Mr Koh Wee Kwang, Director, Nexia Singapore PAC
• Mr Lee Boon Teck, Regional Managing Partner, Audit & Assurance, Deloitte & Touche LLP

The Council also appointed Ms Juliet Teo Juet Sim, Joint Head, Portfolio Development Group and Head, Ecosystem Enablement, Temasek Singapore Pte Ltd. Ms Teo was appointed for her expertise on how the finance profession is evolving in response to changing business models, sustainability priorities and global economic trends.

Office bearers

At the first Council meeting following the AGM, the ISCA office bearers were appointed. Mr Teo Ser Luck, immediate past president, was also appointed as ISCA Adviser.

President: Mr Lee Boon Teck

Vice Presidents:

• Ms Ang Suat Ching
• Ms Jocelyn Goh

Treasurer: Mr Song Yeow Chung

Secretary: Ms Judy Ng

Leadership perspectives

The newly elected ISCA President, Mr Lee Boon Teck, said: “The investments we have made over the past year lay the groundwork for a stronger, more connected profession. Our focus now is to ensure that every member, whether they are starting their career, leading an organisation, or building a practice overseas, can see and feel the difference ISCA makes. I am honoured to lead ISCA at this pivotal moment, and I look forward to working with the Council and our members to build on the strong foundations we have in place.”

ISCA Adviser and immediate past President Mr Teo Ser Luck said: “It has been a great privilege to serve ISCA, our members, and the accountancy sector over the past four years. This journey has been one of the most fulfilling I have ever embarked on. None of it would have been possible without an exceptional Council, a dedicated management team, and members who believed in what we were building together. My sincere appreciation to ISCA and our members for the opportunity to serve.”

ISCA CEO Ms Fann Kor said: “2025 was a year of deliberate investment to strengthen what matters most to our members and to the profession. We invested in the talent pipeline, member support, digital capability and regional connectivity so that ISCA can continue to stay relevant and useful in a changing environment. I would also like to thank Mr Teo Ser Luck for his leadership and contributions over the past four years. Under his stewardship, ISCA made meaningful progress in strengthening the profession, growing the Singapore CA Qualification and expanding our regional footprint. Management looks forward to working closely with the new Council to turn these investments into stronger outcomes and clearer value for members.

For the biographies of the elected office bearers, new and re-elected Council Members, please click here.
Hashtag: #DifferenceMakers #Accountancy #ISCACouncil #AGM

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

Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore. Established in 1963, ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the designated entity by the Singapore Ministry of Finance to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore [CA (Singapore)] designation.

ISCA supports over 43,000 members across industries in Singapore and globally, with members in more than 40 countries. With a growing international presence, ISCA has 12 overseas chapters, 7 offices across 10 countries and a network of over 150 strategic partners, strengthening professional connections and opportunities across borders. ISCA is also a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global network representing more than 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students across over 190 countries.

ISCA advances professional development and lifelong learning through ISCA Academy, its training arm and drives community impact through ISCA Cares, its charity arm.

For more information, visit www.isca.org.sg.

A research paper done by higher education academia indicates transition, particularly after a break from formal education, can influence students’ academic performance, particularly as they rebuild study habits and self-directed learning.

A National Transition with Growing Relevance

As Singapore continues to emphasise lifelong learning and workforce readiness, the NS-to-university transition is increasingly viewed as a critical phase in the education journey. National policies allow some flexibility, such as disruption schemes that enable eligible servicemen to begin university alongside their academic cohort. However, most students still enter university after completing NS, requiring them to re-engage with academic learning after a prolonged hiatus. This has prompted educators to call for stronger institutional support to help students bridge the gap effectively.

Supporting NS Returnees: SIM’s Student-Centric Approach

Recognising the challenges faced by students transitioning from National Service back into academic life, the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) provides a range of structured academic and student support services to facilitate reintegration. Through refresher workshop and learning support initiatives, students are introduced to university expectations, including academic writing, study strategies, and independent learning skills.

The SIM Student Learning Centre provides academic support and enriching learning experiences for all students. It is staffed by a dedicated team of senior students with strong proficiency in academic writing, who regularly conduct workshops on study skills and university life, sharing practical insights with their juniors. In addition, the Peer‑Assisted Learning (PAL) Programme, established in 2013, continues to run today. Under this programme, high‑performing students are trained as subject leaders to facilitate group learning sessions, supporting collaborative learning and helping participants improve their academic performance.

In addition, SIM provides holistic student support through its Student Wellness Centre and Student Care services, which offer counselling, stress management programmes, and peer support initiatives to help students adjust to academic and personal challenges. These services are designed to support students in managing the transition to university life and maintaining overall well-being.

Complementing its academic and personal support structures, SIM promotes a vibrant campus culture through student communities and peer networks that strengthen social integration and contribute to student resilience and success. The institution further supports employability by providing facilities and career-related resources that help students build connections and prepare for the workforce.

Together, these initiatives form a comprehensive support ecosystem that helps students returning from NS rebuild academic confidence, adapt to self-directed learning, and progress successfully in their higher education journey.

Preparing Students for Academic and Career Readiness

The transition from NS to university involves not only academic adjustment but also broader behavioural and social adaptation. By combining structured support, flexible learning pathways and applied education, SIM aims to support students in rebuilding academic confidence and sustaining long-term learning success. As Singapore continues to strengthen its education to employment pathways, supporting students through key transition phases such as NS to higher education will remain an important focus for institutions and policymakers alike.

Reference:

1. Study Habits, Skills, and Attitudes: The Third Pillar Supporting Collegiate Academic Performance – https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1111/j.1745-6924.2008.00089.x
2. LifeSG (Ministry of Defence). Managing NS and Your Studies – https://www.life.gov.sg/guides/pe/managing-ns-studies
3. Central Manpower Base (CMPB). Disruption for Further Studies – https://www.cmpb.gov.sg/before-ns/disruption-for-further-studies/
4. Richardson, M., Abraham, C., & Bond, R. (2012). Psychological correlates of university students’ academic performance: A systematic review. Psychological Bulletin. – https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/a0026838
5. SIM Learning Support – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/learning-support
6. SIM Student Care – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/student-care

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

https://www.sim.edu.sg/

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg

The company recently marked its eighth consecutive participation at Indo Intertex Expo in Jakarta, where it showcased new opportunities for viscose and lyocell fibres and strengthened relationships across the textile value chain. The exhibition brought together suppliers and buyers seeking new product ideas and business opportunities, giving APR a platform to deepen collaboration and expand market connections.

Central to APR’s Jakarta presence was a showcase featuring seven partner companies spanning spinning, weaving, knitting and garment manufacturing. By presenting these partners together, APR, a member of the RGE group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, demonstrated the interconnected ecosystem underpinning Indonesia’s textile sector and the shared value created through close collaboration between fibre producers and downstream manufacturers.

A highlight of the showcase was a dedicated display of lyocell fabrics designed for batik applications. Batik, the wax-resist dyeing craft recognised by UNESCO as part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage, remains central to the nation’s textile identity. Lyocell’s compatibility with traditional dyeing methods offers artisans the opportunity to combine heritage craftsmanship with modern fibre innovation.

Building on this momentum, APR continued its engagement in India through participation in the Fibers & Yarns Expo in Mumbai, one of India’s premier textile trade fairs and a vital networking platform for the country’s extensive supply chain. The event enabled APR to deepen market engagement, forge new partnerships and reconnect with a rapidly expanding customer base.

At the Mumbai exhibition, APR introduced BVF, a finer denier viscose engineered for fine count spinning applications and targeting premium segments such as high-end fashion, athleisure, intimate apparel and home textiles. The Indian market continues to present significant growth potential as manufacturers seek reliable fibre supply, consistent product quality and proactive technical support to meet evolving consumer demands both domestically and internationally.

Sachin Malik, Commercial Head, Asia Pacific Rayon, said: “In the current market scenario, success is not a solo pursuit. It is about how effectively we integrate into our customers’ reality. Our strategy in Indonesia and India demonstrates that fibre producers must align their growth with the success of customers and the wider textile value chain.”

As regional supply chains face increasing pressure to become more resilient, APR’s exhibition strategy underscores a clear message: in textiles, competitive advantage is built not through scale alone, but through trusted partnerships that deliver stability, technical expertise and shared progress.
Hashtag: #RGE #APR #viscose #rayon #Indonesia #India

https://www.aprayon.com

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

About Asia Pacific Rayon

Asia Pacific Rayon (APR), based in Indonesia, is Asia’s first fully integrated viscose rayon producer, from plantation to fibre. APR, which has a capacity of 325,000 tons per year, is located in Pangkalan Kerinci, Riau Province, Indonesia. APR is committed to becoming a leading viscose staple fibre producer with the principles of sustainability, transparency and operational excellence, and serving the interests of the community, country and climate, while providing value to customers. APR is part of the RGE group of companies.

• Singapore car buyers still lack confidence due to unclear pricing and inconsistent information, even after weeks of research.
• Consumers spend up to four weeks researching before visiting a dealership, yet gaps in consumer trust persist.
• Buyers are up to 3 times more likely to return to the same dealership when pricing is clearly itemised.
• Trust is becoming a stronger decision driver than price when comparing similar vehicles.

“Consumers are encouraged to look out for CaseTrust-accredited motoring businesses when making a purchase,” said Mr Melvin Yong, president of CASE. “These accredited dealers are required to adopt clear agreements and maintain safeguards that provide an added layer of protection for consumers.”

A market at an inflection point

The findings suggest that Singapore’s used car market is entering a more mature phase – where informed, cautious buyers expect greater transparency, consistency, and accountability.

As expectations continue to rise, the ability to provide clear information and build trust will increasingly define both consumer confidence and long-term competitiveness in the market.

For a deeper look into the factors and data which shapes today’s car-buying decisions, please access the full Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026 for more information on the used car landscape.

Download the Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026: link
Hashtag: #Motorist #Automotive

https://www.motorist.sg/?utm_source=newswire&utm_medium=org&utm_campaign=media-outreach-smartbuy-guide-2026
https://sg.linkedin.com/company/motoristsg?utm_source=newswire&utm_medium=org&utm_campaign=media-outreach-smartbuy-guide-2026
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https://www.youtube.com/@MotoristSg?utm_source=newswire&utm_medium=org&utm_campaign=media-outreach-smartbuy-guide-2026
https://t.me/motoristcommunity?utm_source=newswire&utm_medium=org&utm_campaign=media-outreach-smartbuy-guide-2026

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

Motorist

Motorist is a Singapore-based automotive platform dedicated to help drivers manage vehicle ownership through services such as buying and selling cars, insurance comparison, and financing tools. The Motorist Super App provides a comprehensive range of services, catering to all aspects of vehicle ownership and management.

Held from 21-24 April 2026 at Singapore EXPO, the competition attracted over 180 young culinary talents from Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, the UAE and the USA to show their ingenuity and determination in shaping the future of foodservice.

As Official Sauces and Condiments Partner, Lee Kum Kee sponsored its signature sauces throughout the competition, including Premium Brand Oyster Sauce, Supreme Authentic First Draw Soy Sauce, Seafood XO Sauce and Premium Mushroom Powder, enabling contestants to refine their seasoning and create dishes with exceptional flavour profiles.

The competition was a collaboration between FHA, the Singapore Chefs Association and the Singapore Junior Chefs Club, and was endorsed by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies. As well as being a test of traditional cooking skills, it provided a globally recognised platform that challenged participants to demonstrate creativity, adaptability and culinary confidence in a realistic foodservice environment.

During the competition, young chefs who participated in either the Team Challenge or the Skills and Innovation Challenge showcased their technique and creativity under time constraints. The Grand Prix reached its climax with the Team Challenge Finals, with the top eight teams from an initial field of 14 presenting an intense lunch service for invited guests that required contestants to prepare a three-course menu using mystery basket ingredients. Judges evaluated their performances based on Worldchefs Judging Criteria, underscoring the competition’s high standards of excellence and professionalism. Korea Cooking Art Academy was crowned Champion of the Team Challenge Finals.

As part of its participation at FHA, Lee Kum Kee presented its signature products at a dedicated booth, featuring a range of offerings designed for professional chefs, HoReCa practitioners and industry players. Daily tastings of specially crafted dishes made with Lee Kum Kee sauces were offered to visitors during the exhibition, which invited them to appreciate the quality of the products.

Vincent Wong, President – APAC of Lee Kum Kee Sauce, said: “Supporting the Young Chefs Grand Prix at FHA 2026 underscores our commitment to nurturing future culinary professionals. The event went beyond competition, helping to inspire enduring interest in Asian cuisine and showcasing Lee Kum Kee’s product excellence to the next generation.”
Hashtag: #LeeKumKee, #LKK

https://www.LKK.com

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

About Lee Kum Kee

Lee Kum Kee is the global gateway to Asian culinary culture, dedicated to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide. Since 1888, it has brought people together over joyful reunions, shared traditions and memorable meals. Beloved by consumers and chefs alike, Lee Kum Kee’s range of more than 300 sauces and condiments sparks creativity in kitchens everywhere, inspiring professional and home chefs to experiment, create and delight. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China, and serving over 100 countries and regions, Lee Kum Kee’s rich heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable practices and “Constant Entrepreneurship” combine to enable superior experiences through Asian cuisine for people worldwide. For more information, please visit www.LKK.com.

Arriving not merely as a residential property, but as a collectible, design-led, ultra-luxury real estate project, Porsche Design Tower Bangkok presents a once-in-a-generation offering. Amidst a spectacular showcase of the world’s finest superyachts, the festival offers Asia’s most discerning yacht owners and collectors a rare opportunity to discover a masterclass in structural originality and absolute privacy. The goal is to connect directly with a global audience of yacht owners and collectors, aligning perfectly with the project’s target group of collectors of exceptional assets.

The centerpiece of this regional showcase is a highly exclusive, invitation-only gathering held within the festival’s newly introduced Spotlight Zone. On Sunday, 26 April, from 2:45 PM to 4:00 PM, an intimate group limited to just 50 guests will be immersed in a bespoke narrative titled “Porsche Design: Shaping Performance, Designing the Future.”

For invited guests, this truly unique experience is meticulously crafted as a curated and intimate occasion. Attendees will be invited into a sophisticated and comfortable setting, designed to facilitate meaningful connections within an exclusive global community of like-minded collectors, prominent thought leaders, and Luminaries

During this intimate afternoon, guests will discover how the philosophy behind Porsche’s legendary sports cars has been seamlessly translated into an outstanding living environment limited to just 22 units. The discourse will highlight the ingenuity behind the tower’s defining architectural features and qualities—revealing how engineering marvels like ‘The Loop’ spiral vehicle ramp and ‘The Passion Space’ elevate automotive ownership into a refined collector’s ritual.

For the region’s exclusive global clientele, this debut represents an exclusive invitation to experience the future of automotive-inspired residences, reinforcing Porsche Design Tower Bangkok’s status as a highly sought-after masterpiece and the definitive reference point in global architectural design.

For discerning individuals wishing to experience this architectural masterpiece in person, the Show Suite based in Bangkok welcomes guests by private appointment only. To inquire about a private viewing, please contact [email protected] or visit pdtowerbangkok.com.

Hashtag: #Ananda #PorcheDesign

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

About Porsche Design Tower Bangkok

The Porsche Design Tower Bangkok sets a new standard for ultra luxury living with its limited offering of just 22 exclusive residences. Located on Sukhumvit 38, one of Bangkok’s most prestigious addresses, this groundbreaking project is the first of its kind in Asia and the third globally, following Miami and Stuttgart. Designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking unparalleled exclusivity, the tower offers residents the perfect blend of serene living in the coveted Thonglor neighborhood, with easy access to the city’s most vibrant attractions and amenities. Among its standout features are the customizable “Passion Spaces”—private, in-unit garages that allow residents to showcase their prized car collections, creating a truly unique living experience.

The survey shows that 68 per cent of Hong Kong SMEs recorded growth in 2025, up from 65 per cent in 2024 and marking the highest result on record. This positive momentum is expected to continue this year, with 71 per cent of SMEs expecting their businesses to grow and 76 per cent anticipating growth in the local economy — both at record highs. Customer loyalty and a strong workforce were identified as key drivers behind SMEs’ solid performance last year.

Mr Cliff Ip, Councillor of CPA Australia’s Greater China Divisional Council, said Hong Kong’s improving business environment played a critical role in supporting SME growth. “Hong Kong’s business confidence and economic growth strengthened last year, supported by robust capital markets, a recovery in tourism and consumption, and signs of stabilisation in the property market,” said Mr Ip. “Against this stable and supportive backdrop, small businesses not only benefited from increased business activity, but were also able to expand in a healthy and sustainable manner.”

Looking ahead, Mr Ip noted that while global geopolitical tensions and external uncertainties pose rising challenges, Hong Kong’s underlying strengths remain a key advantage for SMEs. “Rising geopolitical risks are likely to create headwinds for many sectors such as trade and logistics through higher fuel costs and supply chain disruptions. However, I remain confident about Hong Kong’s overall business outlook this year,” he said. “As many regions become more unpredictable or less secure, Hong Kong’s stable and consistent business environment, together with supportive policy settings including the city’s low and simple tax regime stand out as important advantages in attracting international companies and investors.”

Mr Ip added that these developments also present new opportunities for local SMEs, particularly as increased international interest creates scope to build partnerships, expand networks and tap into new markets. “This environment also creates favourable conditions for younger entrepreneurs to explore emerging markets and pursue new business opportunities,” he said.

Improved business performance has strengthened the solvency of many local SMEs. The share of businesses reporting difficulty paying debts fell sharply from 22 per cent in 2024 to just 3 per cent in 2025, while only 4 per cent expect to face difficulties this year, down markedly from 26 per cent previously. As a result, Hong Kong small businesses are now the least likely among the surveyed businesses to report solvency concerns.

Mr Ip said, “The solvency of many SMEs has notably improved, driven by stronger cash flow from improved business growth, a robust capital market and a recovering property market over the past year. This healthier cashflow has both supported easier access to external finance and reduced the need for such finance.”

Hong Kong SMEs have also strengthened their capability to invest in technology that delivers rapid improvements in profitability. In 2025, 64 per cent of SMEs reported that their technology investment in that year helped improve profitability, up from 59 per cent in 2024. Two in five Hong Kong SMEs invested in artificial intelligence (AI) last year, making it the leading technology investment among local SMEs, followed by customer relationship management (CRM) software.

At the same time, cyber protection has improved, with the share of Hong Kong businesses reporting losses from cyber incidents falling sharply from 72 per cent in 2024 to 43 per cent in 2025. However, as digitalisation accelerates, cyber risks remain elevated, with nearly three in five SMEs expecting to face cyber threats this year, above the survey average 42 per cent.

Mr Davy Leung, Deputy Chairperson of CPA Australia’s SME and Entrepreneurship Committee of Greater China, said the growing maturity and availability of AI tools is helping SMEs enhance productivity, reduce operating costs and improve customer experience.

“However, rising digital fraud, wider AI adoption and SMEs’ increasing reliance on digital banking have prompted the Hong Kong Government to significantly strengthen banking security and cybersecurity resilience over the past year. This includes the rollout of low-cost and practical initiatives such as the Cybersec One Programme and the continued implementation of the ‘9+5’ SME support measures. The decline of cyberattack-related losses reported in the survey in part reflects the effectiveness of these measures.

“As cybersecurity threats and digital fraud risks continue to escalate, SMEs should make better use of these available resources, including free website risk assessments and vulnerability identification services, to strengthen their defence capabilities and safeguard business operations.”

Mr Leung also suggested that the Government consider revamping the Technology Voucher Programme to support broader digitalisation efforts, including the adoption of both AI and non-AI technologies. He added that enhanced training support would help SMEs identify and implement modern tools to drive innovation, improve efficiency and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

Rising costs remain a key challenge for Hong Kong SMEs in 2025, with 29 per cent reporting it having a negative impact on their business. However, this was the second‑lowest level among all surveyed markets, underscoring Hong Kong’s relatively low inflationary environment last year. Notably, the share of SMEs citing staff costs as a negative factor rose from 35 per cent to 42 per cent, making it the most significant cost pressure for Hong Kong businesses in 2025. This increase may help explain why the proportion of SMEs hiring additional staff declined from 42 per cent to 38 per cent last year.

Mr Leung said, “Increasing costs remain a significant barrier for many SMEs across Asia‑Pacific region, but Hong Kong’s relatively low inflation has helped cushion the impact on local small businesses,” Mr Leung said.

Mr Leung added that while headcount growth has moderated, overall staff costs have continued to rise as businesses invest in higher‑value talent. “Greater digitalisation and automation have helped ease labour constraints in Hong Kong. When SMEs do add staff, they are increasingly recruiting employees with digital and AI capabilities, or creating new roles to support business transformation. These positions typically command higher salaries, which has contributed to higher overall staff costs despite slower hiring growth.”

The annual survey collected the views of 4,166 small businesses across 11 Asia-Pacific markets, including Singapore, the Chinese Mainland, and Australia, with 305 respondents from Hong Kong.
Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is Australia’s leading professional accounting body and one of the largest in the world. We have more than 176,000 members in over 100 countries and regions. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. A CPA is a Certified Practising Accountant. More at cpaaustralia.com.au

Allianz Trade and DBS Hong Kong brief businesses on evolving geopolitical trade risks and the critical need for granular liquidity visibility.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – One year after the US Liberation Day, tariffs continue to disrupt global trade and supply chains while many economies and corporates still struggle to find their footing. The broke out of the Middle East conflict has compounded on the effect by driving lower global GDP growth (+2.6% in 2026), higher global inflation (4.3% in 2026) and stronger fiscal pressure. Amid such highly uncertain times, Allianz Trade in Hong Kong partnered with DBS for an exclusive session where industry experts and thought leaders dissected into today’s shifting geopolitical landscape and heightened credit risks, and offered their views on trade opportunities in an increasingly fragmented world.

“The Middle East conflict has added a new layer of shocks to an already fragile environment shaped by tariffs, weakening demand and declining consumer confidence. The good news is that firms have taken operational steps to adapt since the trade war began, with the most common strategies including inventory building, market diversification, sourcing from new suppliers and rerouting through third markets. Asia Pacific has emerged as the clear structural beneficiary of supply chain realignment. Hong Kong, as a major trading and financing hub in the region, continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating trade and investment flows. Together with DBS, we are here to offer our combined intelligence and support to help companies achieve customer and market diversification, better risk selection, and providing them with confidence to trade and grow safely,” states Hassan Omaish, CEO for Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan at Allianz Trade.

Jolynn Wong, Managing Director and Head of Global Transaction Services, DBS Hong Kong, says, “We are witnessing a lengthening of cash collection cycles across sectors impacted by trade route and inventory disruptions, leading to a growing proportion of receivables held at extended tenors. In this climate of heightened volatility, the role of trade finance extends beyond mere credit extension; it must now assure corporates of timely critical cash flow realisation and enable strategic suppliers to maintain production amidst disruptions. Leveraging DBS Hong Kong’s robust capital and liquidity, we provide clients with the necessary extended tenors and contingent liquidity to navigate prolonged inventory and shipping cycles, thereby fortifying their resilience. By integrating guarantees, letters of credit, credit insurance, and treasury hedging into a unified architecture through our digital platforms, we empower clients to transform volatile receivables into reliable cash flows and turn disruptions into investable growth opportunities.”

Notes to editors:
To gauge how global exporters fared through tariffs and the Middle East conflict, Allianz Trade recently published its flagship Global Survey, where 6,000 exporters across 13 countries were polled on their export performances over the past year, as well as outlook and coping strategies for the short- to medium-term. The Survey revealed that 75% of exporters expect positive export growth in 2026, which was much more optimistic than the 2025 tariff shock where expectations dropped by -40pp.

“For now, the impact of the Middle East conflict seems moderate, but such level of optimism remains fragile and could quickly fade if the conflict drags on. Allianz Trade’s Global Survey revealed that geopolitical and political risks are the leading threat globally for corporates (65%), while supply-related issues, such as bankruptcy of suppliers and shortage of inputs, came at second place (57%). The Middle East conflict has also tightened trade finance conditions. Not only payment cycles are lengthening, 43% of companies expect payment terms to deteriorate further. Pharmaceuticals, construction and computers/telecom are the most exposed sectors, while larger companies face disproportionately longer payment cycles,” says Ana Boata, Head of Economic Research at Allianz Trade.

Hashtag: #allianztrade #dbshongkong

https://www.allianz-trade.com/en_HK.html
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allianz-trade-apac/

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

About Allianz Trade

Allianz Trade is the global leader in trade credit insurance and a recognized specialist in the areas of surety, collections, structured trade credit and political risk. Our proprietary intelligence network is based on instant access to data of 289 million corporates. We give companies the confidence to trade by securing their payments. We compensate your company in the event of a bad debt, but more importantly, we help you avoid bad debt in the first place. Whenever we provide trade credit insurance or other finance solutions, our priority is predictive protection. But, when the unexpected arrives, our AA credit rating means we have the resources, backed by Allianz to provide compensation to maintain your business. Headquartered in Paris, Allianz Trade is present in over 40 countries with 5,900 employees. In 2025, our consolidated turnover was EUR4 billion and insured global business transactions represented EUR1,400 billion in exposure. For more information, please visit allianz-trade.com.

About DBS

DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia. The bank’s “AA-” and “Aa1” credit ratings are among the highest in the world.

Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named World’s Best Bank by Global Finance, World’s Best Bank by Euromoney and Global Bank of the Year by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named World’s Best Digital Bank by Euromoney and the world’s Most Innovative in Digital Banking by The Banker. In addition, DBS has been accorded the Safest Bank in Asia award by Global Finance for 17 consecutive years from 2009 to 2025.

DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets.

DBS is committed to building lasting relationships with customers, as it banks the Asian way. Through the DBS Foundation, the bank creates impact beyond banking by uplifting lives and livelihoods of those in need. It provides essential needs to the underprivileged, and fosters inclusion by equipping the underserved with financial and digital literacy skills. It also nurtures innovative social enterprises that create positive impact.

With its extensive network of operations in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exciting career opportunities. For more information, please visit www.dbs.com.