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South Korea’s consumer prices rose 2.2 per cent in March from a year earlier, quickening from 2.0 per cent in both January and February as higher energy costs fed through the economy and kept inflation above the Bank of Korea’s medium-term 2 per cent target. The increase was milder than market expectations for 2.4 per cent, but it still marked the fastest annual pace since December and underscored the strain created by elevated crude prices linked to conflict-driven instability in the Middle East.

On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose 0.3 per cent in March, matching February’s pace. Petroleum products were a major driver even after Seoul introduced emergency measures to curb the blow to households and businesses. Government controls on fuel prices helped limit the pass-through, yet petroleum product prices still rose sharply from the previous month, showing how external energy shocks are overpowering domestic stabilisation efforts.

The inflation print matters because it lands at a moment when policymakers are trying to balance stronger export-led growth against mounting imported price pressures. The Bank of Korea said in its February outlook that consumer-price inflation for 2026 was expected to average 2.2 per cent, slightly above its previous 2.1 per cent forecast. That projection was made before the latest oil surge intensified, leaving economists to question whether the central bank’s assumptions have already been overtaken by events.

Core inflation, which strips out volatile food and energy items, eased slightly to 2.2 per cent in March from 2.3 per cent in February. That suggests underlying domestic demand pressures remain contained, even as headline inflation is being pushed up by imported costs. Another closely watched measure, which excludes agricultural products and petroleum, had been running at 2.5 per cent in February, indicating that sticky service-sector and household spending components have not fully disappeared.

Food prices offered some relief. Agricultural product prices fell in March as supply conditions improved, helping offset part of the jump in fuel-linked costs. That softer food picture helped explain why the overall figure came in below forecasts despite the energy shock. Still, analysts say the cushion from better farm output may prove temporary if transport, fertiliser and logistics costs keep climbing with oil.

South Korea is especially exposed because of its dependence on imported energy. About 70 per cent of its crude oil imports come from the Middle East, leaving the country vulnerable whenever shipping routes or production in the region come under threat. The government has already floated wider demand-management steps, including possible driving curbs beyond the public sector if crude prices climb further, a sign of how seriously officials are treating the supply risk.

Seoul has also moved on the fiscal side. This week the government proposed a supplementary budget of 26.2 trillion won, or about $17.3 billion, aimed at cushioning the economy from the oil shock and supporting low-income households and affected businesses. Of that, 10.1 trillion won is earmarked for measures tied to surging oil prices, including support for refiners operating under the emergency pricing system. The package highlights concern that inflation and slower consumption could combine to weaken the broader recovery.

For the central bank, the March data complicate an already delicate policy setting. The Bank of Korea’s next rate decision is due on April 10. Policymakers had held rates steady in February, and the latest inflation reading, while lower than forecast, is unlikely to offer much comfort because upside risks remain tied to oil, the exchange rate and transport costs. At the same time, softer core inflation argues against an aggressive response unless the energy shock broadens into wages and services.

From 23-25 March, Lee Kum Kee brought together top chefs, diverse cultures and industry communities through a range of thoughtfully curated experiences, bringing authentic Asian flavours to the global stage. As well as reaffirming the brand’s Asian roots and international perspective, its involvement reflected an enduring commitment to preserving culinary heritage and driving gastronomic innovation.

“Asian Flavour Duet“: A Culinary Journey Through Heritage and Innovation

Helping to build momentums for this year’s awards, Lee Kum Kee collaborated with Vicky Cheng, the acclaimed Executive Chef and owner of WING, to co-create the “Asian Flavour Duet”, a Hong Kong-style late-night supper party on 24 March. Hosted at two Hong Kong culinary landmarks, the experience unfolded in two chapters – “Paying Tribute to Heritage” and “Innovative Fusion” – and invited guests to explore the limitless possibilities of Asian flavour.

The evening began at the century-old Lin Heung Lau teahouse, a space filled with nostalgia and memories for generations of Hong Kongers. Chef Vicky reinterpreted classic Hong Kong late-night dishes using signature Lee Kum Kee sauces, while guests were immersed in the warmth of the historic venue.

The celebration then moved to Medora, Chef Vicky’s Western dining space, where an “Innovative Fusion” was revealed. He showcased his modern culinary philosophy by incorporating Lee Kum Kee sauces with contemporary techniques to create bold, unexpected dishes. Guests also enjoyed specially crafted cocktails infused with Lee Kum Kee sauces, alongside a delightful yet refined sauce-inspired gelato, demonstrating a harmonious interweaving of savoury, umami, sweetness and spice.

The multisensory journey seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, exploring the future of cuisine while highlighting Lee Kum Kee’s role as a global gateway to Asian culinary culture.

At the event, Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs at Lee Kum Kee, commented, “Tonight, we are honoured to celebrate Hong Kong’s late‑night food culture with Chef Vicky and the global culinary community. From the legacy of Lin Heung Lau to the forward‑looking spirit of Medora, we are proud to be part of the creative journey and help showcase the depth of Asian flavours on the world stage.”

Celebrating a Gastronomic Brilliance with the Highest Climber Award Sponsored by Lee Kum Kee

During the awards ceremony on 25 March, Lee Kum Kee’s booth showcased a range of the brand’s acclaimed classic sauces and innovative products. Guests sampled specially crafted bites featuring Lee Kum Kee sauces, engaging directly with the flavours and techniques that have made the brand a trusted partner in both home and professional kitchens worldwide.

As part of the evening’s celebration of the region’s most exceptional culinary talents, the Highest Climber Award sponsored by Lee Kum Kee was presented to Lamdre in Beijing by Chef Park from Atomix (No.1 in North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025). Lambre was applauded for its pioneering plant-based dining space that promotes healthy, sustainable living while honouring Chinese biodiversity in its menus.

In addition, WING, led by Chef Vicky, achieved an impressive second place in 2026 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list. The restaurant had also previously ranked No. 11 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2025, underscoring its continued international acclaim.

Building the Future Together: Deepening Global Partnerships

With the success of this prestigious awards ceremony in Hong Kong, China, Lee Kum Kee looks forward to deepening its collaboration with leading talents in the global culinary community. By continuing to champion Asian flavours and foster meaningful dialogue and exchange, the brand will continue to bring the spirit of Asian cuisine to kitchens and dining tables around the world.
Hashtag: #LeeKumKee #LKK

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.

About Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants

Launched in 2013, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants aims to showcase the outstanding achievements and diverse culinary landscape of the region. The list is determined by the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, a panel of over 350 culinary experts from across Asia who vote independently based on their specialised knowledge of the local dining scene. The Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants series includes the awards ceremony and list announcement, creating a premier networking platform for restaurateurs, media, seasoned travelers and culinary connoisseurs to celebrate the exceptional service, passion and talent in the dining industry.

The Orange Dot Award is a benchmark of excellence in the pet industry, established by a panel of elite American experts, including the former president of the American Pet Products Association (APPA). It recognizes products that push the boundaries of safety, innovation, and nutritional science. This year, the spotlight shines on MR.VET’s commitment to “Precision Healthcare.”​

A Biotech Breakthrough: The T-Series Revolution​

The award-winning entry, MR.VET’s T-Series, represents a paradigm shift in how pet owners approach feline health. Unlike conventional dry kibble, the T-Series—comprising T1 (Intestinal Care), T2 (Skin and Coat Care), T3 (Urinary Health), and T4 (Indoor Cat)—is built on a foundation of advanced biotechnology.​

At the heart of this innovation is MR.VET’s Specialized Freeze-Drying Technology. While traditional high-heat processing often destroys delicate bioactive compounds, MR.VET utilizes low-temperature dehydration. This “Bioactive Retention” process locks in original nutrition, ensuring that proteins, fatty acids, and essential micronutrients remain intact for efficient absorption. By combining this technology with customized nutritional profiles, MR.VET offers a tailored solution to the most common health “pain points” faced by modern pet owners.​

Certified Market Dominance: The Number One Choice​

MR.VET’s scientific accolades are backed by staggering commercial success. According to a recent market position statement by the world-renowned consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, MR.VET has been officially certified as the “Ranked No. 1 in Southeast Asia by Sales Volume of Dry Cat Food in 2025.”​

Frost & Sullivan, a global leader in market research for over 60 years, conducted an exhaustive analysis of the Southeast Asian landscape, confirming MR.VET’s status as the undisputed market leader. Over the past year, the brand has witnessed an explosive growth trajectory across both digital and physical storefronts:​

1. Indonesia: Ranked #1 on both TikTok and Shopee.​
2. Vietnam: Ranked #1 on TikTok and #3 on Shopee.​
3. Thailand: Recognized as a Top 10 TikTok Trending Brand.​
4. Regional Reach: Rapidly becoming the preferred choice for consumers in Malaysia and the Philippines.​

Double Victory: Bite of Wild Sweeps Nutrition Category​

The Orange Dot Award ceremony also celebrated a second victory for the group, as sister brand Bite of Wild secured the award in the Nutrition Category for its 42 Series.​

The inspiration for Bite of Wild began with a personal mission by co-founder Steve Bui. As a devoted pet owner, Steve sought to create a diet that truly honored the “obligate carnivore” nature of his own pets. Dissatisfied with conventional options, he set out to develop a high-meat, biologically appropriate formula, which eventually evolved into the award-winning 42 Series.​

Designed to replicate the “Ancestral Blueprint” of wild felines, the Bite of Wild 42 Series (including the P42 High Meats, F42 6-Fish recipes, and K42 Kitten Formula) is engineered for the “Tiger Physique.” The series boasts industry-leading specifications:​

1. 92% Animal Raw Materials: Providing pure biological fuel.​
2. 42% High Crude Protein: The gold standard for lean muscle and vitality.​
3. 0% Grain & Pork: Eliminating common allergens to ensure peak digestive health.​

Bite of Wild caters to the “obligate carnivore” nature of cats, proving that high-performance nutrition can be both scientifically precise and naturally sourced.​

A New Era for the Pan-Asian Pet Market​

The success of MR.VET and Bite of Wild at the Global Pet Expo signals a broader revolution within the Asian pet market—a transition from “basic feeding” to “scientific nurturing.”​

“Winning two Orange Dot Awards in Biotech and Nutrition is a powerful validation of our commitment to elevating pet health standards across the Asian market,” said Steve Bui, co-founder of the brands, during the Orlando ceremony. “It proves that by merging global scientific breakthroughs with deep regional insights, we can lead the world in both market scale and technological sophistication.”​

As MR.VET continues to expand its footprint across the Pan-Asian region and beyond, its mission remains clear: to provide pets with “the right care made easy”—backed by science and proven by millions of satisfied owners. The revolution in pet health has arrived, led by the “Tiger Physique” of Bite of Wild and the biotech-driven precision of MR.VET.

Hashtag: #MRVET

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

By Dr. Gyan Pathak By modifying its own order on April 1, 2026, to allow new documents to be submitted before the Tribunals established to hear appeal against deletion of names from the Final Electoral Roll of West Bengal, the Supreme Court of India has brought a new hope to the people whose names have […]

The article New Supreme Court Order Brings Hope For Deleted Electors In West Bengal appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

The proposed tender offer price is ¥4,750 a share. That figure carries an unusual wrinkle: Reuters reported it stood 4.7% below Taiyo’s last closing price, reflecting how market speculation had already lifted the stock, while the joint company release framed the offer as carrying a steep premium to unaffected average prices before the bidding process became public and before activist-related filings stirred the shares. The contrast underlines how Japan’s take-private deals are increasingly playing out in markets already primed by rumour, activism and expectations of strategic change.

Taiyo is not a household consumer name, but it sits in businesses that have become more visible to global investors. The group is a leading producer of solder resist and other materials used in printed circuit boards and semiconductor packaging substrates, while also operating a medical and pharmaceutical arm that makes prescription drugs and provides contract development and manufacturing services. In its own long-term planning, Taiyo has pointed to growth opportunities from generative AI, data centres and communications infrastructure on the electronics side, alongside structural reform and expansion in contract manufacturing for pharmaceuticals.

That mix helps explain why KKR sees room for a private-market strategy. Taiyo said privatisation would allow it to pursue long-term investments and quicker decision-making with less pressure from the public market. The company’s “Beyond Imagination 2030” plan targets a rise in net sales to ¥180 billion by fiscal 2031 from ¥119 billion in fiscal 2025, while operating income is targeted to more than double to ¥47 billion from ¥22 billion. Management has also been trying to improve capital efficiency after sustained dialogue with shareholders, including a focus on profitability in the medical and pharmaceuticals unit and a review of portfolio positioning across the group.

For KKR, the Taiyo bid fits a broader pattern in Japan. The firm said it has been investing in the country for two decades and manages more than $20 billion there. Its existing investments span semiconductor equipment, pharmaceuticals, information technology and logistics, sectors where global funds have been seeking companies with specialised technology, export potential or scope for operational overhaul. Taiyo gives KKR exposure to electronics materials tied to advanced manufacturing as well as a pharmaceuticals platform that could benefit from demand for contract manufacturing and stable domestic drug supply.

The shareholder line-up behind the offer is also notable. DIC, Taiyo’s largest shareholder, and Kowa, which is affiliated with the founding family, have agreed to sell through a share consolidation and buyback process after the tender offer is completed. The founding family plans to reinvest in the KKR-managed vehicle that will own Taiyo after privatisation. Oasis Management, long known for active positions in Japan, has separately agreed to tender shares representing about 15.62% of the company. That combination reduces execution risk and suggests the deal has been designed to balance continuity with outside capital and governance pressure.

Still, the transaction comes with questions that investors and analysts will watch closely. A take-private at a headline valuation above ¥500 billion will invite scrutiny over whether minority holders are being offered enough upside after the stock’s sharp re-rating. The tender offer has yet to begin formally and remains subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals. Any delays or shifts in market conditions could test sentiment, especially at a time when deal financing and foreign buyouts in Japan are being judged against a higher bar on governance, transparency and shareholder treatment.

Taiyo’s business profile gives the story wider significance than a conventional chemicals buyout. Its electronics arm remains the core earnings driver, but the medical and pharmaceuticals business has been gaining attention as order volumes rise in contract manufacturing and as the group tries to lift margins. Taiyo’s own targets show electronics sales climbing to ¥128 billion by fiscal 2031 and medical and pharmaceuticals sales to ¥43 billion, with the latter expected to deliver a marked improvement in profitability. That combination of steady industrial demand and a healthcare growth angle is the sort of hybrid case private equity firms have been seeking across Japan’s listed mid-cap sector.

Responding to Hong Kong’s aging trend Extending “retirement planning” into “health capital management”

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – As one of the world‘s longest-living regions, Hong Kong is increasingly focused on how to plan for the second half of life and improve the quality of life for older adults. As artificial intelligence rapidly enters healthcare and elderly care, preventive medicine is becoming the next key issue for Hong Kong‘s aging society. LIVE4WELL will debut Hong Kong‘s most comprehensive AI health management experience zone at the “Smart Retirement Expo” (Booth: Hall 1E C01-2, 05-08), combining multiple clinical-grade technologies and generating personalized health reports in real time, allowing the public to experience first-hand how AI is reshaping “health capital management.”

The exhibition will be held grandly from 3 to 5 April 2026 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hall 1E, and is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors, offering the public one-stop retirement planning and healthy living solutions.

Medical-grade, non-invasive smart health checks
Professional consultants will explain reports on site

During the expo, LIVE4WELL will offer the most comprehensive AI health assessment experience in Hong Kong. Visitors may choose two free tests, each taking about 5 to 10 minutes:

• AI fondus analysis: Uses retinal imaging to analyze microvascular and nerve changes to predict cardiovascular and metabolic disease risk.
• 3D posture structure assessment: No wearable device required; AI motion-capture technology evaluates postural imbalance, muscle coordination, and pain triggers.
• Body composition analysis: Analyzes skeletal muscle mass, body fat percentage, and tendency toward sarcopenia.
• New: Medical-grade body measurement: Uses inflammation indicators to analyze bodily function and chronic risk status in depth.
• New: Electrical impedance tomography (special trial price): Assesses the risk index for chronic liver and kidney diseases.

After the tests, professional health consultants will explain the personalized health report on site, transforming complex medical data into simple, practical lifestyle advice, helping the public truly practice “prevention is better than cure.” LIVE4WELL recommends regular testing every three months to monitor health status; if any concerns arise, users can seek solutions from a professional medical team and receive treatment early. In addition, LIVE4WELL‘s partners include Chubb Life Hong Kong, Trinity Medical Centre, E-SENSE Innovative Technology Company, Clarity Eye Centre, KAM HearingHealth HK, and LINK2CARE‘s smart watch combining “Chinese prevention” and “Western treatment.” During the expo, they will offer limited-time discounts on products and services that support health protection.

Event details
Exhibition name: Smart Retirement Expo
Dates: 3–5 April 2026
Time:

• 3–4 April (Fri–Sat): 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• 5 April (Sun): 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai, Hall 1E
LIVE4WELL Booth: C01-2, 05-08 (54 sq. m.)
LIVE4WELL Seminar: AI Reveals Health Risks: 20 Minutes to Understand the Truth Behind Risk
Hall 1E Leisure Zone

3 April (Fri), 1:10–1:30 p.m.
Ms. Miranda Wong, Co-Founder

Media invitation
LIVE4WELL warmly invites media friends to visit the booth during the exhibition for coverage. Arrangements can include:

• Interviews with the founding team and technical experts
• Filming demonstrations of the AI testing process
• On-site interviews with members of the public experiencing the service
• Feature sharing on preventive medicine and senior health

Hashtag: #LIVE4WELL

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

About LIVE4WELL

LIVE4WELL is a health management platform driving a new era of preventive medicine for all through artificial intelligence. Using clinical-grade testing devices from multiple countries, AI data analysis, and a mobile app, it creates a complete health loop of “testing, understanding, action, tracking, reward.” LIVE4WELL‘s goal is not merely to build a health app, but to establish a technology-driven, people-centered, practical preventive healthcare ecosystem that creates a better future for public health.

01 | Three improvement solutions from smart diagnosis to action

Based on users‘ test results, risk assessment, and lifestyle, the platform provides practical improvement plans, including:

• Dietary adjustments: personalized meal suggestions adapted to local food culture
• Nutritional supplementation: data-driven guidance to avoid blind use of health supplements
• Exercise prescriptions: from walking and stretching to functional training, emphasizing safety and sustainability

02 | Data-driven intelligent interpretation as a “personalized health manual”

LIVE4WELL creates a customized, user-centered health report for each participant, integrating multi-source test results and presenting them visually with risk grading and plain-language explanations, becoming a truly actionable “personalized health manual.” The platform integrates large language models across multiple medical specialties, combining clinical literature and preventive medicine research, with professional input from medical experts and university scholars.

03 | Eight training systems and an all-day digital ecosystem

LIVE4WELL has uniquely developed eight training systems, covering:
cardiorespiratory endurance | muscular strength and endurance | balance and stability | flexibility and joint mobility | posture and spine health | metabolism and weight management | stress and sleep regulation | functional daily living training.

The mobile app turns offline testing into a 24-hour online nutritionist and fitness coach, integrating meal tracking, calorie tracking, step monitoring, and personalized tasks.

04 | Sweat Point™ rewards and social ecosystem

The platform features a Sweat Point™ wallet rewards system and the WELLShop™ healthy consumption platform. After completing health tasks, reaching step goals, or joining community activities, users can earn “exercise miles” to redeem health products. Social features also encourage families and friends to join challenges together, making health management a shared and encouraging social activity.

05 | Digital infrastructure for public policy

LIVE4WELL‘s vision is to become the next-generation digital infrastructure deeply integrated with public healthcare policy. Through anonymized health data, it can help decision-makers:

• Improve health education and public exercise policy
• Allocate medical resources more precisely
• Open new employee health management models for corporations and insurers

This makes “just move a little every day” not just a slogan, but a lifestyle path everyone can practice. When everyone takes responsibility for their own health, overall social well-being, productivity, and future competitiveness will also rise.

More information, please visit：www.live4well.io

The recognition marks the 17th consecutive year the same store has been included in the Michelin Guide—a milestone achieved during Tim Ho Wan’s first full year under the Jollibee Group following its acquisition in January 2025. Over the past year, the brand has focused on strengthening systems, chef training, and food quality, reinforcing the consistency that has long defined Tim Ho Wan in its home market.

“Tim Ho Wan’s recognition in the Michelin Guide is a reflection of the care and discipline behind the brand,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group Global President and CEO. “At the Jollibee Group, we are committed to growing brands like this in a way that stays true to their roots while allowing more people around the world to experience what makes them special.”

Founded in Hong Kong in 2009 by chefs Mak Kwai Pui and Leung Fai Keung, Tim Ho Wan quickly rose to prominence after earning a Michelin star within its first year. Its Sham Shui Po branch, opened in 2010, has since remained a consistent presence in the Michelin Guide, underscoring the brand’s enduring culinary standards.

Scaling a Heritage Brand Through Operational Discipline

Under the Jollibee Group, Tim Ho Wan has strengthened its operating model to support consistent execution and long-term growth across markets.

Ongoing investments in kitchen systems, chef training, menu development, and store operations have enhanced consistency across locations while preserving the craftsmanship rooted in its Hong Kong origins. The continued recognition in Hong Kong reinforces the market’s role as the brand’s culinary and operational benchmark.

“These capabilities allow us to stay true to what makes Tim Ho Wan special, while ensuring we can deliver that same experience consistently as we grow,” said Sheng Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Tim Ho Wan.

“This recognition reflects the discipline of our teams in delivering consistent quality day in and day out. We remain focused on elevating our craft through rigorous training, responsible sourcing, and thoughtful service so that high-quality meals remain welcoming to guests around the world,” Lee added.

A Distinct Concept for Global Expansion

Tim Ho Wan’s combination of quality and value positions it as a distinctive concept in the global restaurant landscape.

Supported by strengthened systems and operating discipline, the brand offers a compelling platform for growth across international markets—anchored on consistency in its home market and enabled by replicable operating standards.

A Global Brand Rooted in Hong Kong

From a 20-seat dim sum shop in Hong Kong to a globally recognized brand, Tim Ho Wan continues to demonstrate how culinary heritage and operational discipline can come together to create a strong and scalable business.

The latest Bib Gourmand recognition reinforces Tim Ho Wan’s position as a globally relevant dim sum brand—rooted in Hong Kong and supported by the Jollibee Group’s platform for sustained and disciplined growth.

Disciplined Growth Backed by the Jollibee Group

The continued recognition also reflects the Jollibee Group’s approach to scaling heritage brands through operational excellence and long-term stewardship.

“Tim Ho Wan’s sustained recognition reflects the strength of its heritage and the discipline behind its execution,” said Richard Shin, CEO of JFC International and Global Chief Financial and Risk Officer of the Jollibee Group. “At the Jollibee Group, we focus on strengthening the systems and platforms that allow brands like Tim Ho Wan to grow while preserving the authenticity and craftsmanship that made them successful.”

System-wide sales (SWS) expanded significantly from Php1.3 billion in 2024 to Php8.1 billion in 2025, highlighting the brand’s accelerating scale and growing contribution to the Group’s global operations.

In its home market, Tim Ho Wan has strengthened its core Hong Kong footprint, doubling its store network to 10 locations within approximately one year. Recent store openings have delivered attractive payback periods (circa 1.5 years) and profitability, reinforcing confidence in the brand’s unit economics and disciplined growth approach.

Growth has been broad-based across both company-operated and franchise markets. Sales performance strengthened across markets such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and China, while franchise markets, including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Japan, continue to build momentum, further validating the brand’s strong international resonance and scalability.

The brand also reached an important milestone in its global expansion with the opening of its first company-operated North America store in Irvine, California, marking a significant step in establishing a direct presence in one of the world’s largest consumer markets. This re-entry into North America reflects the transportability of the brand’s operating model and positions Tim How Wan for a new phase of long-term growth and further global brand development.

Hashtag: #JollibeeGroup

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

About Jollibee Group

Jollibee Foods Corporation (PSE: JFC) (the “Company”) is one of the world’s fastest-growing restaurant companies, driven by its purpose of spreading joy through superior taste. It manages and operates a portfolio that includes 19 brands (the “Jollibee Group”) with over 10,000 stores and cafés across 33 countries.

The Jollibee Group’s portfolio includes nine (9) wholly-owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger and Tim Ho Wan), five (5) franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, Yoshinoya, Common Man Coffee Roasters, and Tiong Bahru Bakery in the Philippines), and ownership stakes in other key brands like The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (80%), Compose Coffee (70%), SuperFoods Group that operates Highlands Coffee (60%), and bubble tea brand Milksha (51%). The Company also has membership interests in Tortazo, LLC, along with Chef Rick Bayless, for Tortazo in the U.S. and in Botrista, a leader in beverage technology.

The Jollibee Group’s global sustainability agenda, Joy for Tomorrow, underscores its commitment to sustainable business practices across food safety, employee welfare, community support, good governance, and environmental responsibility, among others. These focus areas are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

The Company has been recognized as the Philippines’ Most Admired Company by the Asian Wall Street Journal, named one of Asia’s Fab 50 Companies, and listed among Forbes’ World’s Best Employers and Top Female-Friendly Companies. The Company is also a four-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award recipient and featured in TIME’s World’s Best Companies and Fortune’s Southeast Asia 500 List.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

The mission is an extension of the 42-year relationship Ray Dalio has had with China and its people, and it is delivered in collaboration with the Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA), the Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO), and the China-U.S. Exchange Foundation (CUSEF). The mission’s goals are to promote high quality people-to-people exchanges between nations, advance ocean literacy and scientific understanding, and equip participants with the skills to communicate the importance of our shared ocean to broader audiences.

Expanding Access to Ocean Science and Education

The China 2026 program represents a milestone in OceanX’s global engagement efforts, creating new opportunities for students and researchers to access hands-on learning at sea. Participants from the United States and China will take part in a structured program designed to build practical knowledge, develop interpersonal connections, and strengthen individual capabilities in ocean science, operations, and communication.

“At this time of great conflict in the world, I believe more than ever in the power of people-to-people exchanges to create mutual understanding” said Ray Dalio, Founder of OceanX. “Understanding the ocean is a shared interest for both the U.S. and China—and for the scientists and students who are on this joint mission. It is a thrill to see them working together.”

Hands-On Learning Across Science, Operations, and Media

The program delivers a structured curriculum that combines lectures, workshops, and applied learning experiences across three focus areas:

• Marine Exploration: Ocean data collection methods, ecosystem observation, and introductions to oceanographic research tools
• Operations: Life aboard a research vessel, including equipment demonstrations such as ROV operations, water sampling, and microscopy
• Media & Communication: Science communication and media production training to support clearer public understanding of ocean issues

Participants will develop individual and small-group projects as part of the program, focused on applying knowledge gained throughout the voyage. They will also forge new connections and build mutual understanding with their peers.

“Understanding the ocean requires both scientific insight and the ability to communicate it clearly,” said Vincent Pieribone, Co-CEO and Chief Science Officer of OceanX. “This program is designed to give participants exposure to the tools, technologies, and storytelling approaches that are shaping how ocean science is conducted and shared.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Ocean Leaders

By combining advanced marine technology, scientific research, and immersive storytelling, OceanX is working to broaden access to ocean discovery and inspire future generations to engage with ocean science.

“A Shared Voyage: OceanX China 2026 represents an important opportunity to support ocean education and public awareness,” said Ms. Lyu Tin, director of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs, Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA).

“This initiative highlights the importance of continued investment in ocean science education and capacity building,” said Prof. Huang Wei, Chinese Chief Scientist for the mission and research at Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO).

A Shared Voyage: OceanX China 2026 supports OceanX’s mission to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential through science and education, while advancing ocean literacy and long-term stewardship.
Hashtag: #OceanX

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

About OceanX

OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we’re building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies. For more information, visit www.oceanx.org and follow OceanX on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.