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Thousands of police and paramilitary personnel were deployed across the capital, with barricades, surveillance equipment and detention facilities positioned around Jantar Mantar, where the youth-led movement planned to assemble despite being denied permission.

Delhi Police strengthened checkpoints at major entry routes, restricted access to sensitive areas and warned that unauthorised gatherings would face action. Security arrangements included drones, closed-circuit television cameras, body-worn cameras and additional personnel assigned to monitor crowd movements.

The authorities prepared for approximately 7,000 demonstrators, although organisers have claimed substantially wider support. Police officials said their priority was maintaining public order while preventing confrontations between protesters and security personnel.

The Ministry of Home Affairs instructed police chiefs across states and Union Territories to remain vigilant, citing possible law-and-order consequences arising from the mobilisation. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan communicated the concerns after Delhi Police rejected the organisers’ application.

Police said the request had not complied with the prescribed ten-day advance notice requirement. Authorities also cited alleged failures to follow lawful instructions during an earlier demonstration and concerns about traffic disruption and public safety.

CJP representatives challenged the restrictions, arguing that peaceful assembly was a constitutional right. Founder Abhijeet Dipke maintained that the demonstration would proceed despite the security measures, accusing the government of attempting to suppress public opposition.

The planned protest centres on allegations that the Election Commission’s special intensive revision of electoral rolls has resulted in widespread exclusion of eligible voters. Organisers accuse the commission of conducting the exercise in a manner that benefits the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

The Election Commission and the BJP have rejected allegations of electoral manipulation. The dispute has nevertheless drawn opposition parties, student organisations and civil society campaigners into demonstrations demanding greater transparency and accountability.

The confrontation has intensified following claims by opposition groups that more than 130 million names were removed from electoral registers during the revision exercise. The figure remains politically contested, while the commission maintains that electoral roll verification follows established procedures.

Security officials said approximately 35,000 police and paramilitary personnel were available for deployment. Additional forces were mobilised from outside Delhi, while officers established multiple layers of security around government buildings, transport hubs and approaches to the proposed protest venue.

Preventive detentions began before the scheduled gathering. Police acknowledged detaining hundreds of people as part of security operations, while CJP leaders alleged that substantially larger numbers of supporters had been stopped or taken into custody across several states. The organisers’ figures could not be independently established.

Transport restrictions compounded the disruption. Delhi Metro authorities curtailed access to several stations, while railway services connecting the capital with neighbouring states faced cancellations and rescheduling. The restrictions affected commuters travelling for purposes unrelated to the demonstration.

Mobile internet access was also restricted in parts of central Delhi, alongside heightened monitoring of roads leading towards government offices. The measures attracted criticism from civil liberties campaigners concerned about their impact on communication and freedom of movement.

The Supreme Court’s intervention over the extent of transport restrictions prompted authorities to reconsider some closures, reflecting concerns about the consequences for ordinary passengers. Police nevertheless retained powers to regulate access to areas considered vulnerable to large gatherings.

Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory identifying 30 locations where diversions could be imposed from 6 am. These included Connaught Place, Mandi House, Dhaula Kuan, Patel Chowk and roads approaching Jantar Mantar.

Commuters were advised to allow additional travelling time, particularly when heading towards railway stations, interstate bus terminals and the airport. Traffic arrangements were to be adjusted according to conditions on the ground.

Joint Commissioner of Police Madhur Verma urged officers to exercise restraint and maintain professional standards while handling demonstrators. The instructions emphasised minimum force, discipline and the protection of public safety during crowd-control operations.

Student organisations supporting the CJP maintained that their campaign would remain peaceful. The All India Students’ Association and other groups joined calls for accountability over electoral roll changes, while organisers appealed to participants to avoid confrontation.

Police also sought information from authorities outside Delhi about planned journeys, accommodation arrangements and organisers coordinating the mobilisation. Intelligence-sharing arrangements covered railway stations, road transport routes and potential assembly points.

Hotels and guest houses around central Delhi were asked to restrict bookings where necessary, while security personnel monitored arrivals at transport terminals. Police established designated detention facilities to accommodate people taken into preventive custody.

The traffic advisory identified additional possible restrictions around Lodhi Road, Sardar Patel Marg, Moti Bagh and the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital roundabout, with diversions subject to operational assessments by traffic officers.

Jyotiraditya Scindia responded on Friday after Musk questioned billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s influence over the approval process, escalating a dispute over Starlink’s prolonged wait to begin commercial operations in one of the world’s largest telecommunications markets.

“India does not allow a monopoly in any sector,” Scindia told a media briefing, defending the government’s handling of satellite communications licences and its approach to competition.

The intervention followed Musk’s question on his social media platform X on Thursday: “Is Ambani the real boss of India?” Musk suggested that Starlink’s difficulties reflected the influence of established business interests but offered no evidence that Ambani had interfered with regulatory decisions.

The Ministry of Communications had already dismissed Musk’s earlier allegation that unnamed oligarchs were obstructing Starlink to protect their market position. It described the regulatory framework as fair and non-discriminatory and called suggestions of unequal treatment “baseless and misconceived”.

Officials said three licensed satellite communications operators were undergoing security assessments and remained at broadly comparable stages of the approval process. Those operators are Starlink, Reliance Jio’s satellite venture and Eutelsat OneWeb, which has links with Bharti Airtel.

Starlink has obtained a licence to provide satellite services, but that authorisation does not itself permit an immediate commercial launch. The company must satisfy security conditions before proceeding to spectrum assignment, another requirement for starting operations.

The distinction has become central to the disagreement. Musk has questioned why his company cannot begin serving customers after years of work to meet regulatory requirements, while the government maintains that obtaining a licence is only one stage of a process applicable to every provider.

Security scrutiny covers issues arising from satellite networks’ ability to deliver communications across borders and from the need for operators to comply with domestic interception, monitoring and other lawful requirements. The government has not announced a date for completing the assessments or assigning spectrum to Starlink.

Musk initially accused unnamed influential figures of seeking to preserve what he described as a monopolistic hold over connectivity. He argued that delays harmed people without adequate internet access, particularly communities that could benefit from satellite connections where terrestrial networks are difficult to extend.

His subsequent reference to Ambani made the dispute more personal. Reliance Jio, part of the conglomerate led by Ambani, is among the dominant providers of mobile connectivity in India, alongside Bharti Airtel. Neither the size of those businesses nor their presence in the satellite sector establishes the interference alleged by Musk.

Reliance Jio had not publicly answered the accusation by Friday. The absence of a response leaves Musk’s specific suggestion about Ambani unsupported, while the government’s explanation addresses the formal approval process rather than every concern raised about its duration.

The controversy has also drawn political attention. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi joined the exchanges on X, responding to Musk’s remarks with a pointed comment about the influence of powerful figures. His intervention widened a disagreement initially centred on satellite licensing into a debate about corporate power and government decision-making.

Starlink’s proposed service differs from conventional mobile broadband. Its network uses low-Earth-orbit satellites to connect customer terminals, potentially extending internet access to remote locations without the same dependence on ground-based fibre or mobile towers.

That potential has made the timing of market entry important for Starlink, although affordability, equipment costs and regulatory obligations will also shape the service’s commercial prospects. No confirmed nationwide launch date or final retail pricing has been announced for customers in India.

The regulatory dispute follows years of preparations by SpaceX to enter the market. Starlink has also explored distribution partnerships with established telecommunications companies, including Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, demonstrating that competition in satellite broadband can coexist with commercial cooperation.

India’s satellite spectrum framework envisages administrative assignment rather than conventional auctions, subject to prescribed charges and conditions. Operators still require individual approvals before they can activate services, and holding an authorisation does not remove obligations connected with network security.

The Ministry of Communications has said a licensee may move towards spectrum assignment once its security assessment is completed. That sequence applies to the three companies currently seeking to introduce satellite broadband services under the government’s approval framework.

Bringing together Thai heritage, contemporary creativity and digital connectivity, ONYX Hospitality Group is collaborating with ChaTraMue, Thailand’s iconic tea brand; internationally recognised Thai artist Benzilla; and Grab Thailand, a leading digital platform for mobility and everyday services. Each partnership adds a different dimension to the ONYX experience, spanning food and beverage, art, lifestyle and mobility, while connecting the Group’s Thai roots and hospitality expertise with the way people travel, dine and discover today.

Two Thai Brands, One Shared Heritage

ONYX Hospitality Group and ChaTraMue unite two Thai brands with longstanding legacies and generations of consumer recognition. With a tea-making heritage dating back to 1925, ChaTraMue contributes one of Thailand’s most familiar flavours, complemented by ONYX’s expertise in hospitality, dining and experience creation.

The collaboration will introduce new menus, beverages and guest experiences that give a much-loved part of Thai culture a fresh expression across ONYX hotels and restaurants. From a familiar cup of Thai tea to new interpretations created for different occasions, the partnership invites guests to experience more of a flavour they already know and love.

OZO Meets the Creative World of Benzilla

For OZO, Thai artist Benzilla brings the brand’s playful personality to life through a collection of four specially designed luggage stickers, turning the suitcase into a canvas for travel memories. Inspired by OZO’s lively, youthful spirit and interpreted through Benzilla’s bold contemporary style, the collection captures the fun and spontaneity at the heart of the brand. Designed to travel beyond the hotel, the stickers give guests a reminder of their journey while showing how Thai creative talent can translate OZO’s personality into something personal, expressive and shareable.

Connecting Travel and Discovery with Grab Thailand

ONYX Hospitality Group’s collaboration with Grab Thailand brings hospitality and digital convenience closer together, connecting Grab’s ecosystem and consumer reach with ONYX hotels, restaurants and lifestyle experiences. By integrating transport, dining and destination discovery, the partnership helps make the guest journey more seamless while allowing travellers to engage with ONYX through a platform already part of their everyday lives. It also creates new opportunities for the Group to reach digitally active consumers before, during and beyond their stay, making its brands, dining and destinations easier to access and enjoy.

Different Strengths, More to Experience

While each initiative is distinct, they share a common idea: combining ONYX’s hospitality expertise with the strengths of each partner to create meaningful value for today’s guests.

Pornthip Paothong, Vice President, Brand and Marketing, ONYX Hospitality Group said: “Our 60th anniversary celebrates our Thai roots and the hospitality experience we have built over the past six decades, while also looking at what guests value today. ‘More of What You Love‘ is about giving people more reasons to enjoy their time with us – from the hotels they stay in and the food they discover to the destinations they explore. Together, they allow us to create experiences that reflect how people live and travel today.”

The collaborations form part of ONYX Hospitality Group’s wider 60th anniversary campaign, creating new reasons for guests to engage with and return to its brands. Across Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence, ONYX Hospitality Group continues to develop experiences shaped around the distinct character of each brand, supported by its deep understanding of hospitality and destinations across Asia-Pacific.

As ONYX enters its seventh decade, the Group will continue to explore partnerships that connects its heritage with creativity and contemporary lifestyles, with further anniversary initiatives to be introduced throughout the year.

Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup

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

About ONYX Hospitality Group:

ONYX Hospitality Group is a leading hospitality management company in Asia-Pacific, with a complementary portfolio of brands comprising Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence. Together, these brands serve the diverse needs of business and leisure travellers across the region, where ONYX has deep market expertise. Beyond accommodation, the Group also operates spa and food and beverage businesses. Drawing on six decades of management experience, ONYX delivers innovative hospitality solutions across the region while upholding internationally recognised standards and maintaining operational agility. By building enduring relationships with like-minded business partners, ONYX Hospitality Group delivers distinctive experiences in a dynamic and competitive market, responding to the evolving needs of today’s travellers.

More information: www.onyx-hospitality.com

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Guided by the Central Passport, LANDMARK invites visitors to experience Central anew— from Louis Vuitton’s global spectacle to cultural, dining and seasonal celebrations.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 October 2026 – LANDMARK today unveils Destination CENTRAL, inviting local residents and international visitors to rediscover the many sides of Central through the collectible Central Passport. The programme celebrates the district’s long-standing role as Hong Kong’s gateway for arrival, exchange and discovery. Inspired by the spirit of travel, Destination CENTRAL connects experiences across Central, bringing together travel-inspired activations in partnership with Hong Kong Tramways and Asia Miles; district-wide dining privileges; a global spectacle by Louis Vuitton; and THE CHATER, an exclusive dining concept presented by LANDMARK.

Your Passport to Central

Created by LANDMARK, the luggage-inspired Central Passport is a collectible guide bringing together experiences both within LANDMARK and across the wider district into a seamless journey. Inside, a curated map is paired with personal stories and recommendations from people who know Central closely—from tram motormen, singers and public figures to athletes, celebrated chefs and bar founders—inviting visitors to uncover the area’s hidden character.

Available from collection points across the district, the Central Passport can be personalised with stamps from eight designated locations. Visitors who collect any three stamps can visit the Destination CENTRAL Redemption Counter on 2/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM to enter a lucky draw and unlock a surprise gift. Lucky winners stand a chance to receive up to 66,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to a round-trip business-class flight to Japan—alongside photobooth experiences, limited-edition keepsakes and dining vouchers. The Central Passport also includes exclusive dining privileges from more than 40 participating partners, including Lan Kwai Fong and The Murray.

Louis Vuitton at LANDMARK

Following iconic presentations on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, 57th Street in New York and ‘The Louis’ in Shanghai, Louis Vuitton brings the latest chapter of its global series to Hong Kong. Unveiling soon, the Maison will present a monumental mega-art installation at LANDMARK, reimagining its enduring “Spirit of Travel”. Complemented by the pop-up store currently at LANDMARK ATRIUM and the upcoming dedicated Basement Brand Exhibition , the experience offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Louis Vuitton—setting the stage for the highly anticipated Louis Vuitton Maison at LANDMARK.

Transit Through Central’s Changing Landscape

The travel narrative continues with the LANDMARK Tram Station and Heritage Route, created in partnership with Hong Kong Tramways. Together, they offer an interactive look at Central’s transport heritage and evolving urban landscape—from its early harbourfront and trading past to today’s connected city centre. The LANDMARK Tram Station recreates one of the city’s first-generation trams, fitted with authentic archive pieces from Hong Kong Tramways, including a traditional ticket punch, a coin box, driving console and “Dick, Kerr” controller.

A First Class Stop for Dining and Views

Taking the travel theme into hospitality, LANDMARK presents THE CHATER, an exclusive dining concept opening on 6 October, featuring an all-day menu curated by Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. Inspired by the elegance and anticipation of a grand station lounge, the new venue brings together Hong Kong and international flavours, with highlights including bubble tea and gourmet quick bites, alongside Pierre Hermé macarons and gelato set to be launched later in the season. The experience will extend to Platform 1889 on 3/F, a first-class railway carriage-inspired feature within THE CHATER’s terrace. Named for the year Sir Paul Chater co-founded Hongkong Land, Platform 1889 pays tribute to a defining moment in Central’s history while offering a prime view of Louis Vuitton’s monumental mega-art installation and the Central skyline.

Halloween Takes Over Central

From 17 to 31 October, Hongkong Land, supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and district partners, presents Halloween in Central—a heritage-led celebration that transforms Central’s iconic streetscape into a citywide Halloween playground.

At Statue Square Gardens, South, four large-scale installations set a striking scene: I Am Watching You, a giant eyeball rising over the fountain; The Awakening, a monumental gateway; the photo-ready Coffin Throne; and The Jail, a haunted reimagining of the pavilion.

On Chater Road, the programme begins with Boo-st Your Mood – Pickleball Day in partnership with Pick & Match on 17 October, a wellness-focused afternoon of active fun. This is followed by OPEN by HE.R – Halloween in Central Kick-Off Party on 18 October, bringing live music and high-energy celebrations to the street. Monster Mash Fest – Family Day arrives on 24 October with costumes, face painting, themed bouncy-castle sessions, performances and Halloween treats, before Halloween Day Unleashed closes the programme on 31 October, featuring cosplay, roving characters, themed performances and late-night festivities. Full details are available at https://www.halloweenincentral.com/

“As a key stakeholder deeply rooted in Central, Hongkong Land is delighted to bring Destination CENTRAL to life alongside our district partners, inviting the public to discover the extraordinary charm of Central anew,” said Olivia Luk, General Manager, Marketing, Hong Kong Central, Hongkong Land Limited. “Together with a rich programme of dining privileges and seasonal celebrations, we hope everyone—from daily office workers and local residents to visitors—can shape their own memorable story of Central.”

Exclusive Rewards and Privileges

Destination CENTRAL brings added benefits to every qualifying LANDMARK visit with HSBC-exclusive offers for BESPOKE members. From 28 September to 18 November 2026, eligible BESPOKE members paying with an HSBC Privé Mastercard® or HSBC Premier Mastercard® can receive up to HK$3,000 in BESPOKE Bonus Reward Vouchers, up to 135,000 Bonus BESPOKE Points, and Complimentary Beverage Passes to Platform 1889 at THE CHATER upon registration of cumulative same-day eligible spending.

Terms and conditions apply. For full programme and promotional details, including specific Central Passport mechanisms, please visit https://destinationcentral.hk.

@landmarkhk #LANDMARKHK #DestinationCENTRAL

APPENDIX

Please visit the Destination CENTRAL website at https://destinationcentral.hk for the latest programme details, terms and conditions.

Central Passport Collection & Reward Details (28 September – 18 November 2026)

Other Destination CENTRAL Activities At A Glance

Destination CENTRAL Redemption Gifts

• 66,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to one Cathay Pacific Business Class round-trip ticket to Japan*
• 26,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to one Cathay Pacific Economy Class round-trip ticket to Japan*
• Destination CENTRAL Tram Plush Charm
• Destination CENTRAL Magnet
• Destination CENTRAL Photobooth Experience
• Destination CENTRAL Mini Camera
• Ami Signature Beef Sando
• BaseHall HK$50 Gift Certificate
• THE CHATER HK$50 Gift Certificate

*Based on Cathay Flight Awards – Standard Awards as of 1 September 2026. Terms and conditions apply.

Hashtag: #LANDMARKHK

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

About LANDMARK

LANDMARK represents the epitome of top-tier luxury shopping and lifestyle experiences. Drawing from a rich heritage which began in 1904 – LANDMARK today is the luxury shopping destination of Hongkong Land’s Central portfolio including 4 iconic connected buildings, LANDMARK ATRIUM, LANDMARK ALEXANDRA, LANDMARK CHATER and LANDMARK PRINCE’S. LANDMARK offers approximately 208 of the finest stores and restaurants, all seamlessly linked by pedestrian bridges. From high fashion and accessories to watches and jewellery, from luxury living to beauty and grooming, from international cuisine to authentic gourmet dining, LANDMARK brings the ultimate shopping experience to the discerning customer.

About Hongkong Land

Hongkong Land is a major listed property investment, management and development group. The Group focuses on developing, owning and managing ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. Its mixed-use real estate footprint spans more than 850,000 sq. m., with flagship projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. The Group’s Hong Kong Central portfolio represents some 450,000 sq. m. of prime property. The Group has a further 165,000 sq. m. of prestigious office space in Singapore mainly held through joint ventures and five retail centres on the Chinese mainland, including a luxury retail centre at Wangfujing in Beijing. In Shanghai, the Group owns a 43% interest in a 1.1 million sq. m. mixed-use project in West Bund, which is due to be completed in 2028. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited is incorporated in Bermuda and has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Bermuda and Singapore. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.

First Win in the Pantry Staples Category

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 October 2026 – Lee Kum Kee Sauce (“Lee Kum Kee”), the global Asian sauces and condiments brand, has been named a winner in the Healthy Food Guide 2026 Awards in New Zealand for its Gluten Free Soy Sauce. This marks the first time the product has received this recognition. The win also comes as Lee Kum Kee Gluten Free Soy Sauce continues to grow its presence in Australian and New Zealand supermarkets.

Judged by a panel of qualified dietitians, the Healthy Food Guide Awards is one of New Zealand’s independent guides to healthy eating and nutritious supermarket products. Products are assessed by dietitians, based on nutritional profile, value for money and taste. Lee Kum Kee Gluten Free Soy Sauce was awarded Best Soy Sauce for its simple ingredients and gluten free formulation, enabling consumers with gluten sensitivities to enjoy authentic, flavourful meals with confidence.

“We’re proud to receive the Healthy Food Guide Awards, alongside reaching a decade of availability for our Gluten Free Soy Sauce in New Zealand” said Gary Hui, Business Development Director – Oceania of Lee Kum Kee Sauce. “This award validates our commitment to quality and to ensuring consumers with dietary requirements never have to compromise on flavour.”

Traditionally fermented using non-GM soybeans, Lee Kum Kee Gluten Free Soy Sauce contains no added colouring, flavouring or preservatives, and is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. It is designed for use across everyday cooking, from stir-fries and marinades to dipping sauces. It serves as a trusted pantry staple for home cooks seeking a gluten-free alternative that delivers the same depth of flavour and versatility expected from traditional soy sauce.

The product also carries the Coeliac New Zealand Crossed Grain logo — the nationally recognised symbol for tested and certified gluten-free products, giving shoppers reassurance at a glance. As a sponsor of Coeliac Awareness Week by Coeliac New Zealand and Coeliac Australia, Lee Kum Kee has been a keen supporter of the programme that helps raise awareness of coeliac disease across the country.

Meet us at the upcoming gluten-free events this October in Australia and New Zealand for cooking solutions with Lee Kum Kee Gluten Free Soy Sauce, food sampling and special offers. Stay tuned for more updates on the brand’s Instagram accounts:@leekumkeeaustralia, @leekumkeenz.

Melbourne Gluten Free Expo

Date: 17-18 October 2026 (Saturday: 9am-5pm; Sunday: 9am-4pm)
Booth and Venue location: Stand #30, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
Website: https://www.glutenfreeexpo.com.au/

Auckland Gluten Free Food Festival

Date: 31 October 2026 (9am-4pm)
Booth and Venue location: Stands H1 & H2, Due Drop Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau City, Auckland
Website: https://www.theglutenfreefoodfestival.co.nz/

Lee Kum Kee Gluten Free Soy Sauce is available nationwide at major supermarkets across New Zealand and Australia. Discover more about our recipes and serving inspiration featuring Lee Kum Kee Gluten Free Soy Sauce at: https://nz.lkk.com/en/products/gluten-free-soy-sauce.

Hashtag: #LeeKumKee

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

About Lee Kum Kee Sauce

Lee Kum Kee Sauce 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 Sauce’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 Sauce’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.

About Healthy Food Guide Awards

The Healthy Food Guide Awards is the credible and definitive guide to the most nutritious food products on supermarket shelves, brought by Healthy Food Guide magazine. Judged by qualified dietitians, the annual awards help consumers identify healthier food choices across a wide range of categories. For more information on this year’s award list in New Zealand, visit https://awards.healthyfood.com/winners/nz/.

DAVIS, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 October 2026 – BINGXUE, a mass-market tea beverage brand from Shandong, has opened its first U.S. store in Davis, California. After expanding into Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Africa, and other international markets, the brand has officially entered North America, marking another milestone in its global expansion. Backed by years of investment in supply chain capabilities, international compliance, and overseas store operations, BINGXUE is accelerating its international expansion and bringing Chinese tea beverages to consumers around the world.

On October 2, BINGXUE officially opened its first U.S. store in Davis, California, drawing strong foot traffic and sustained crowds throughout the day. From the moment the store opened, large numbers of local consumers gathered to explore the brand and line up for their favorite products. The line stretched more than 50 meters along the street, creating a striking new consumer destination in the neighborhood. Several signature soft serve and beverage products sold out within half a day, while customer traffic remained consistently high throughout the day, with staff working at full capacity to serve customers. According to store data, more than 1,000 beverages were sold on opening day, quickly generating strong consumer interest in the local market. The store quickly became a popular new destination in Davis, with many local residents sharing their visits on social media and generating widespread local buzz.

The grand opening also received significant attention and support from local government and business representatives. Davis Mayor Donna Neville attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony in person, joining the BINGXUE team to mark the official opening of the brand’s first North American store. Following the ceremony, Mayor Neville visited the store to learn more about BINGXUE’s ingredient standards, product portfolio, and global supply chain, and sampled several of the brand’s signature tea beverages. The beverages were well received for their quality and refreshing flavors, further strengthening BINGXUE’s connection with the local community and highlighting its growing presence in the market. The warm and engaging exchange throughout the event helped bring the brand closer to the local community and support its deeper integration into the North American market.

Representatives from the local chamber of commerce also attended the grand opening to congratulate the BINGXUE team and engaged in in-depth discussions with the brand on topics including localized operations, integration into the local business community, and opportunities for community collaboration. The recognition and welcome from the local business community provide a strong foundation for BINGXUE to establish a long-term presence in California.

This achievement reflects the brand’s long-term investment in supply chain development, compliance systems, and product localization. Although its first U.S. store opened only this year, BINGXUE began preparing for FDA requirements related to relevant ingredients three years ago, while its supply chain planning started even earlier. The company has spent years preparing its ingredients, certifications, production processes, and compliance systems for the U.S. market. The launch of its first store was therefore the result of long-term planning rather than a short-term market test.

Founded in Shandong in 2014, BINGXUE began its international expansion in 2023. In just three years, the brand has entered 18 countries and regions, with more than 5,000 contracted stores worldwide. Of these, more than 2,000 are overseas, with over 1,500 overseas stores already in operation, while the overseas store closure rate remains below 1%. From Southeast Asia to North America, BINGXUE continues to expand its global footprint.

BINGXUE’s global expansion strategy did not begin simply with opening stores overseas. It began with the long-term development of its brand, supply chain, and international compliance capabilities. BINGXUE is the first Shandong-based tea beverage brand to enter the U.S. market. Its ability to establish a presence in one of the world’s most competitive consumer markets, with stringent market-entry requirements, demonstrates the strength of its broader business and operational capabilities.

On the product side, BINGXUE offers a diversified portfolio spanning fresh fruit teas, milk teas, signature soft serve, yogurt smoothies, and other categories to cater to different tastes and consumption occasions. According to research by Champ Consulting, BINGXUE’s matcha soft serve ranks No. 1 globally in sales.

In terms of store experience, BINGXUE’s new 8.0 store format enhances customer engagement through a five-senses approach and premium aesthetics, while maintaining the same pricing structure and continuing its positioning of “premium experience at accessible prices.” The choice of Davis for its first U.S. store was not a simple replication of its domestic model, but a decision based on the city’s university ecosystem and young consumer base, supported by localized adjustments.

Many may ask why BINGXUE chose Davis rather than a major city such as Los Angeles or San Francisco for its first U.S. store. The answer lies in the character of the city itself.

Davis is one of the birthplaces of the U.S. “Farm-to-Fork” movement, where local ingredients and sustainable agriculture are deeply embedded in everyday life. UC Davis is consistently recognized as a leading institution in agriculture and food science. This strong emphasis on ingredients closely aligns with BINGXUE’s “Global Flavors Season” concept, which explores source regions and local flavors.

As a classic college town, Davis has a large student and university-affiliated population, while its diverse and open-minded community provides a strong audience for new-style tea beverages. Rather than competing for traffic in a major metropolitan market, BINGXUE positioned its first store close to consumers who value ingredients and are willing to try new products. In Davis’s competitive tea beverage market, the brand has also differentiated itself through accessible pricing and distinctive flavors that resonate with local consumers.

Successful international expansion for a tea beverage brand depends on far more than store operations. It requires an integrated system covering ingredients, production, certification, warehousing, logistics, and training. BINGXUE established its own factory as early as 2018. In August 2026, the BINGXUE Industrial Park officially opened in Qihe, Shandong, with a total investment of RMB 660 million, integrating manufacturing, R&D, training, and supply chain operations.

The industrial park includes production facilities covering key product categories such as powdered beverages, juices and jams, tea, and dairy products, supported by an R&D center and business training system. Together, these capabilities form an integrated chain spanning raw-material production, product development, staff training, warehousing, logistics, and store operations. More than 80% of BINGXUE’s raw materials are currently supplied by its own factories.

The company has also established a three-tier logistics network consisting of central warehouses, regional warehouses, and partner warehouses, supporting stores worldwide through domestic warehousing, overseas warehouses, and localized production.

Meanwhile, to meet food safety and production requirements across different countries and regions, BINGXUE has continued to strengthen its international compliance capabilities and has obtained six international certifications and related qualifications, including Halal, ISO 22000, HACCP, and FDA-related certifications and approvals. From factories to overseas warehouses, and from ingredient certification to store training, BINGXUE is gradually converting years of industrial investment into overseas operating capabilities.

For BINGXUE, international expansion also means building a supply chain capable of supporting operations across different markets. The company has taken a more asset-intensive approach, building the infrastructure and capabilities needed to support its expansion into the U.S. market.

The first U.S. store is only the beginning. A second U.S. location is already in development and is expected to open on Oxnard Boulevard in California. As Jiang Huabei, founder and general manager of BINGXUE, said, “The overseas market offers greater room for growth than the domestic market. If you decide to enter it, the goal should not be simply to test the waters, but to build for the long term, develop the market thoroughly, and meet unmet consumer needs.”

Going forward, BINGXUE will continue to build on its supply chain capabilities, focus on product development, and strengthen localized operations as it steadily advances toward its goal of reaching 10,000 stores worldwide within three years. With its entry into North America, BINGXUE is bringing Chinese tea beverages to more consumers around the world and opening a new chapter in the international expansion of Chinese tea culture.

Hashtag: #BINGXUE

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

The MICHELIN Key recognises hotels that offer exceptional stay experiences, assessed against five universal criteria: excellence in architecture and interior design; quality and consistency of service; individual personality and overall character; value for money; and a meaningful contribution to the experience of the surrounding neighbourhood or destination. Together, these criteria demonstrate that a memorable stay is shaped by far more than the beauty of a property alone; it is the result of different elements coming together to create an overall experience. At Oriental Residence Bangkok, this is expressed through a distinctive residential experience centred on elegance, privacy and intuitive care that responds to each guest’s individual needs.

Three Years of Recognition, Beyond the First Impression

Receiving One MICHELIN Key for the third consecutive year places Oriental Residence Bangkok among the hotels in Thailand recognised internationally for an exceptional stay experience. The achievement also reflects the dedication of the hotel team in maintaining consistently high standards of service.

Alongside its One MICHELIN Key distinction, Oriental Residence Bangkok is also a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), reflecting the hotel’s distinctive identity and thoughtful approach to service. Together, these recognitions reflect the strong foundation of quality on which the hotel continues to build and evolve its guest experience in response to changing traveller expectations.

For ONYX Hospitality Group, the recognition reflects a management approach that places equal importance on maintaining standards and preserving each brand’s individual character. Drawing on its experience and expertise, the Group develops services that respond to different guest needs, ensuring each journey is supported with the right level of care while maintaining a consistent quality of experience.

For travellers choosing a hotel for a relaxing break, whether for a weekend away, time with family or a stay that calls for added comfort and convenience, the choice may be about more than simply discovering a new place to stay. It is also about having confidence that the experience will meet their needs and make the time set aside for rest truly worthwhile. Consistent recognition therefore provides another meaningful point of reference when choosing where to stay.

One of the defining qualities of Oriental Residence Bangkok is the opportunity to unwind in a tranquil and private setting on Wireless Road while remaining in the heart of the city. Surrounded by embassies, lifestyle destinations, restaurants and key landmarks, guests can step out to experience Bangkok, meet the people who matter, or return to the calm of the hotel at their own pace. With spaces suited to both work and time together, complemented by service that respects privacy, the hotel is well suited to both short breaks and longer stays in Bangkok.

Building on Recognition, Shaping the Next Chapter of the Guest Experience

Over more than 60 years, ONYX Hospitality Group has continued to build on its hospitality expertise, bringing this foundation to Oriental Residence Bangkok through The Art of Intuitive Refinement. The concept places emphasis on elegance, privacy and care that understands each guest’s needs at different moments throughout their stay.

This experience also connects naturally with More of What You Love, ONYX Hospitality Group’s philosophy of giving guests more time for the things that matter to them, whether choosing how to spend their day, discovering the character of Bangkok, or returning to the tranquillity and privacy of the hotel.

Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup

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

About ONYX Hospitality Group:

ONYX Hospitality Group, a reputable force in the Asia-Pacific hospitality industry, operates a collection of comprehensive yet complementary brands – Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence – catering to the distinctive needs of discerning business and leisure travellers across the region where it has deep expertise. In addition to its brand portfolio, ONYX Hospitality Group also operates additional hospitality services across spa and food & beverage. With six decades of management experience, the company extends its innovative solutions throughout the region, upholding internationally recognised standards and ensuring optimal operational manoeuvrability. By fostering enduring relationships with like-minded business partners, ONYX Hospitality Group delivers unparalleled experiences in a dynamic and competitive market, meeting the ever-evolving demands of travellers.

More information: www.onyx-hospitality.com

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The successful field trial, conducted by QNu Labs, the Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) and IIT Gandhinagar, established a quantum communication channel between two facilities in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology announced the achievement on October 3, confirming that the experiment took place overnight on September 27–28. The system generated secure cryptographic keys at 230–260 bits per second while maintaining a quantum bit error rate below five per cent.

The participating institutions also demonstrated successful encryption and decryption of test messages using the generated keys, establishing that the experimental quantum channel could operate alongside conventional communications infrastructure.

The achievement represents India’s first publicly announced free-space quantum key distribution demonstration at this distance. Unlike fibre-based systems, the technology transmits quantum signals through the atmosphere, allowing secure key exchange without a continuous physical cable between communicating locations.

QNu Labs deployed its Armos quantum key distribution equipment alongside a pointing, acquisition and tracking system designed to maintain optical alignment between transmitting and receiving terminals.

The experiment used a 1,550-nanometre optical channel and a differential phase shift decoy protocol. Precise alignment was essential because atmospheric disturbances and small movements can disrupt the transmission of weak quantum signals across extended distances.

The reported error rate provided an important indication of transmission quality, while the secure key generation rate demonstrated the system’s ability to produce cryptographic material for practical encryption applications.

The generated keys were integrated into BISAG-N’s Vedic Kavach platform, which incorporates post-quantum cryptography and quantum random number generation. This arrangement combined hardware-based quantum key distribution with software-based cryptographic protection.

Researchers demonstrated the transmission of 256-bit encryption keys through an interface conforming to the ETSI GS QKD 014 specification, enabling a test message to be encrypted, transmitted and decrypted successfully.

The hybrid architecture is intended to maintain cryptographic protection when the quantum channel becomes temporarily unavailable. Post-quantum cryptography uses mathematical algorithms designed to resist attacks from sufficiently powerful quantum computers, while quantum key distribution relies on the properties of quantum states to reveal potential interception.

The two approaches address different security requirements and can operate together, although neither eliminates every vulnerability associated with communication networks, including compromised devices or implementation weaknesses.

Sunil Gupta, co-founder and chief executive of QNu Labs, said quantum security would become meaningful at scale only when technologies moved beyond controlled laboratories and operated across actual communications infrastructure.

He said the field trial demonstrated that quantum key distribution, supported by precise optical tracking, could function across a multi-kilometre atmospheric link while integrating with a post-quantum security layer.

Vinay Thakur, director-general of BISAG-N, highlighted the integration of Vedic Kavach with quantum key distribution as evidence that complementary security technologies could address evolving protection requirements.

The demonstration also has implications for India’s proposed satellite quantum communication capabilities. Satellite-to-ground systems require quantum signals to pass through atmospheric conditions, making terrestrial free-space experiments useful for evaluating optical transmission and tracking technologies.

However, the Gandhinagar experiment did not establish a satellite connection or demonstrate operational performance across orbital distances. Such applications require additional testing involving moving platforms, longer optical paths and changing atmospheric conditions.

The achievement contributes to technical work associated with India’s National Quantum Mission, which includes developing secure quantum communications and supporting technologies for terrestrial and space applications.

Manish Tripathi, who oversees the Interdisciplinary School of Technology and Future at IIT Gandhinagar, described the experiment as a valuable field environment bringing together academic research, domestic technology development and practical testing.

The participating organisations have not announced a timetable for commercial deployment or a subsequent satellite demonstration based on the trial.

The reported performance figures describe the conditions achieved during the September experiment rather than guaranteed operating rates under different weather conditions or across other locations.

BISAG-N contributed its Vedic Kavach encryption environment, IIT Gandhinagar provided the academic testing setting, and QNu Labs supplied the quantum distribution equipment and optical tracking technology used in the demonstration.

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