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As a leading overseas payment service provider (PSP), PayerMax has integrated Rakuten Pay to enable international merchants to adopt this payment method in Japan. This integration marks a significant milestone in the technical collaboration, successfully supporting merchants in leveraging Rakuten Pay for their local operations.

The milestone not only enhances the localized payment experience for Last War players in Japan, but also demonstrates how international game publishers can leverage trusted local payment partnerships to accelerate market entry, strengthen localization and better engage Japanese consumers.

Connecting with Japanese Players Starts with Local Payments

As more global game publishers expand into Japan, localized payment experiences have become an increasingly important part of player acquisition, monetization and long-term growth.

As one of the flagship payment services within the Rakuten Ecosystem, Rakuten Pay plays a central role in Japan’s digital commerce landscape. The Rakuten Ecosystem connects more than 100 million registered members across e-commerce, financial services, travel, mobile and offline retail, and Rakuten Pay has become one of Japan’s most widely adopted local payment methods.

For international game publishers, integrating Rakuten Pay is about more than offering another payment option. It provides access to one of Japan’s most established consumer ecosystems, allowing games to deliver payment experiences aligned with local player preferences while building stronger engagement in one of the world’s most competitive gaming markets.

Supporting Last War Highlights PayerMax’s Local Payment Expertise in Japan

As one of the fastest-growing strategy games worldwide, Last War continues to expand its global footprint, with Japan representing one of its key strategic markets. As expectations for localized payment experiences continue to rise, enabling familiar and trusted local payment methods has become an important part of enhancing player experience and supporting sustainable growth.

With support from PayerMax, Last War successfully integrated Rakuten Pay, becoming a leading overseas game to support the payment method and offering Japanese players a more localized and seamless payment experience.

Designed to support international businesses entering Japan, PayerMax provides a unified payment solution that bridges the gap between global merchants and the local ecosystem. By leveraging PayerMax’s integration with Rakuten Pay, PayerMax serves as a gateway for international businesses to establish a strong presence in the Japanese market.

Faster Market Entry

Through PayerMax’s system integration with Rakuten Payment, eligible merchants benefit from a standardized integration pathway that shortens implementation timelines and accelerates go-to-market execution in Japan.

Reliable Compliance and Fund Management Enablement

Leveraging the established business relationships between PayerMax and Rakuten Pay, merchants are empowered to integrate Rakuten Pay through a streamlined, standardized pathway which is aligned with Japan’s local regulatory and operational requirements, thereby delivering a payment experience that resonates with the everyday spending habits of Japanese players. Furthermore, within this collaborative framework, PayerMax and Rakuten Pay facilitate the unified orchestration of critical processes including KYC, anti‑money laundering (AML) and fund management, effectively alleviating the operational complexities and associated costs of local payment execution. This enables merchants to refocus their resources on sustainable business growth and enriched player engagement.

Access to Japan’s Consumer Ecosystem

Through PayerMax, businesses can better engage local consumers, strengthen brand presence and build sustainable long-term growth in Japan.

The successful integration for Last War not only demonstrates the commercial value of the partnership between PayerMax and Rakuten Payment, but also provides a proven reference for more global game publishers and digital content companies expanding into Japan.

Executive Quotes

Hiroki Sogawa, Executive Officer, Rakuten Payment, said:

“We are pleased to partner with PayerMax and to see Last War, a leading title, successfully integrate Rakuten Pay as a payment option. Through this collaboration, we look forward to supporting more international businesses and digital content providers in delivering trusted, localized payment experiences for Japanese consumers.”

Will, APAC General Manager of PayerMax, said:

“Integrating with Rakuten Pay marks an important milestone in PayerMax’s expansion of local payment capabilities in Japan. The successful launch of Last War reflects the strength of our partnership and demonstrates our ability to help global game publishers and international businesses localize faster through trusted local payment infrastructure. Looking ahead, we will continue working with leading local payment partners worldwide to deliver secure, compliant and scalable payment solutions for global merchants.”

Strengthening Local Payment Infrastructure for Global Growth

The partnership with Rakuten Payment represents another important milestone in PayerMax’s strategy to strengthen local payment infrastructure across key global markets and further expand its local payment capabilities in Japan.

Today, PayerMax supports businesses across more than 150 markets and offers access to over 600 payment methods worldwide, backed by an extensive network of local payment partners spanning Japan, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and other high-growth regions.

Rather than simply aggregating payment methods, PayerMax focuses on connecting businesses with the local payment ecosystems that shape consumer behavior in each market. By combining enterprise-grade payment technology with trusted local partnerships, PayerMax enables international businesses to localize faster, operate more efficiently and achieve sustainable global growth.

Hashtag: #PayerMax #RakutenPay

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

2Q26 Business and Financial Highlights

• Bora delivered historically record-high quarterly revenues of NT$5,889 million in 2Q26, up 47.2% quarter-over-quarter driven by broad-based operational momentum, with basic EPS of NT$4.36.
• CDMO revenue growth and increased site utilization rates, along with strong growth in the rare disease business and a return to growth for generics business of the Pharma Sales operations lifted group profitability, with gross margin expanding to 41.3% from 36.0% and operating margin reaching 16.8% from 10.2% in 1Q26. Excluding one-time costs related to the Weider Global Nutrition transaction, operating margin was approximately 18%.
• CDMO’s strong backlog of US$317 million as of end of 2Q26, another historical high following a strong quarter, signals that Bora’s core business continued to perform with higher demand.
• Pharma Sales’ rare disease franchise continues to show double digit sequential growth and the increased demand from government channels during the quarter with stabilized pricing in DLS has lifted the generics business back to normal.
• Reflecting Bora’s recent increase in investment in Sunway Biotech, from 35.97% to 42.27% and subsequent acquisitions of Weider Global Nutrition’s, the Company has introduced “Consumer Healthcare (CHC)” as a new segment in its revenue mix disclosure beginning this quarter. In 2Q26, revenues from CHC were NT$824.76 million in 2Q26, a 354.4% increase QoQ and 234.3% YoY, and contributed to 14% of the Bora Groups consolidated revenues, an all-time high.
• Cash-on-hand reached an all-time high of NT$8,431 million as the Company was preparing for MacroGenics Inc.’s Rockville facility acquisition.
• The Company has kicked off a group-wide AI in Manufacturing, BORA AIM, program aimed at improving process efficiency across sites, spanning engineering, quality and production. Bora has also signed a partnership with Insilico Medicine for AI drug discovery. The first 6 months will focus on beta version testing of the Bora AIM agents and AI champions to drive process consolidation.
• Share capital increased 0.3% during the quarter from employee stock option exercise.

Mr. Bobby Sheng, Chairman of Bora Group, stated, “We are pleased to announce Bora Group’s return to strong operating profits and double to triple-digit growth on all key margins sequentially, as well as demonstrate that our soft 1Q26 performance was anomalous rather than structural. Our impressive sequential improvement was driven entirely by strong demand from both our CDMO and Pharma Sales businesses, with 2Q26 manufactured batches reaching 0.38 billion doses, led by increased commercial production in Maple Grove and Zhunan sites and a full quarter of operations in the Maryland injectable facility, while our flagship products DLS and VIGAFYDE® in Pharma Sales continues to secure leading market share.

Our focus right now is execution. CAPEX investments in our mature sites, including facilities in Taiwan and in Canada, continue to deliver operational leverage driven by gross margin expansion, and our recently acquired oral solid dose facility in Maple Grove continues to show stellar and impactful demand as we sign more projects. Our 12-month rolling backlog is at historic high in almost all our sites, despite projected manufacturing delays at our Maryland injectable facility as we diligently respond to FDA audit observations from a recent audit. Bora Group’s commitment to the fast-growing Biologics manufacturing industry took another big step as we look to integrate 12,000 liters of capacity, and 3 commercial products from our Rockville facility, as well as see revenue recognition from this acquisition starting Q3. As Bora’s CDMO footprint expands in the US, we continue to capture durable, high-value demand as customers increasingly prioritize supply security and onshore capacity.

In addition, we are seeing sustained growth and improved gross margins in the Vigabatrin franchise, our most important, rare disease franchise, thanks to renegotiations with our partner vendors. Accelerated state and government orders for generics products increased 2Q26 revenues and 6 new generics launches have also supported a more diversified generics portfolio. Together, the advancement in rare disease franchise and generics business has positioned Bora’s Pharma Sales business, operating under the name Upsher-Smith, in a far stronger state than it was just a quarter ago.

As announced in July, we are excited to be developing a group-wide AI in Manufacturing program, BORA AIM, aimed at improving process efficiency across sites, spanning engineering, quality and production. We also announced a partnership with Insilico Medicine to enhance our understanding of AI drug discovery and create more customized AI manufacturing platforms for AIDD small molecules. In the next 12 months, Bora Group will be ready to showcase some exciting AI-enabled CDMO platforms that will truly add value to our partners and sharpen the overall competitive advantages of Bora Group.

As our momentum carries Bora into the second half of the year, we expect margins of our flagship products in Pharma Sales and CHC businesses to hold steady on continuous revenue growth, and improved efficiencies in the CDMO business in addition to consolidation of new revenues from the Rockville facility.”

2Q26 Operational Achievements & 2026 Outlook

Global CDMO Operations

Revenues increased 30.3% year-over-year and 29.0% quarter-over-quarter including internal orders, and 33.0% and 40.2% external orders only, or NT$2,116.4 million. The growth was primarily driven by a strong rebound in injectables following the semi-annual maintenance in 1Q26 and same period last year, and demand acceleration overall as we continue to meet the increasing backlog.

CDMO business also signed a record high US$378.2 million in total external wins. Highlighted by a 10+2-year, multi product commercial contract in our Maple Grove facility with a new top-20 pharma company, and 14 new molecules from pre-commercial programs from multiple new customers. Bora is confident in its mid- to long-term growth trajectory as pharma and biotech companies continue to look for US based CDMOs as a part of their efforts to onshore US production and improve supply chain resilience.

During the quarter, 0.38 billion doses, or 109 molecules, were developed and manufactured. Contribution from the top 20 global pharmaceutical companies stood at roughly 30% and should increase drastically in the next 8 quarters.

Looking at 3Q26, the Company is highly optimistic, with our backlog having climbed to an unprecedented level even after a strong quarter of manufacturing output. We do anticipate some timing shifts in revenue recognition related to scheduled semi-annual maintenance at our Maryland injectable site, alongside targeted quality-enhancement activities in connection with observations on passive RABS (Restricted Access Barrier System) line received from an FDA audit that took place 2Q26. However, there has been no reduction in total commercial batch productions in 2026 as we speak and several existing clients have initiated transfers to the FlexPro isolator filling lines. RFP activity has risen, with the first GMP PPQ campaign starting in August. On the newest, isolator-based AST lines, factory acceptance testing (FAT) is planned for Q326, with qualification to follow in 2027, expanding our ability to onboard small-scale isolator programs, including tech transfers.

On biologics, Rockville facility revenue recognition started in the first month of 3Q26 and the site has confirmed that it is on track to deliver batch production volumes ahead of last year’s run rate of around 13 batches for the remainder of 2026. We anticipate one-time transaction costs from this acquisition of approximately 3% of the purchase price including legal and FA fee and transition related expenses as stated in the Transition Service Agreement. The Rockville acquisition expands biologics capacity and brings integrated drug substance (DS) and drug product (DP) capabilities under one roof, strengthening our end-to-end service offering and attracting more inbound opportunities and higher value conversion with cross selling opportunities for our injectable business.

For our strategic investment in Tanvex Biopharma, the main Bora Biologics platform company, although the business still operates at a loss, Tanvex has built a strong presence in international conferences, especially Bio International in the US in June. We have seen a positive uptick in pipeline from leading biotechs and heavy weight biopharmas, and stable demand for early-stage PD programs in Zhubei. The Rockville acquisition is expected to orchestrate and accelerate opportunities for Tanvex in the coming quarters.

Pharma Sales Operations

Revenues decreased 2.7% year-over-year and increased 30.4% quarter-over-quarter, arriving at NT$2,934.04 million in 2Q26. The year-over-year decrease was mainly due to a product rationalization program in 2025 that lead to the withdrawal of a basket of legacy generics products.

During the quarter, specialty and brand came in strongly, up 58.8% for the quarter QoQ and displayed almost 50% growth against 2025 run rate. The rare-disease Vigabatrin franchise demand is robust, and our continuous investment in the segment has resulted in much broader patient access compared to when we acquired Upsher-Smith 28 months ago. On coverage, we are on track to achieve year-end formulary goal of >50%, supported by more regional plans and strong physician adoption as they gain experience with VIGAFYDE®. The Company has also renegotiated contracts with suppliers, leading to improved gross margins for the franchise during the quarter and expects full economic contribution starting 3Q26. Simultaneously, the Company out-licensed its non-core assets, Stiripentol generics and 505(b)(2), during the quarter, fully capturing the economic value of these drug assets to enable fueled and renewed focus on core specialty and brand business.

The generics business returned to stability as Upsher-Smith successfully defended flagship product DLS. High value generics advanced 20.6% sequentially from downstream restocking, narrowing the year-to-date YoY decline against 2025 run rate to high teens.

Having executed our way through specialty and brand business growth and generics portfolio optimization, we have returned to the 2023–2024 peaks of Pharma Sales performance but with healthier and more resilient operating profits. As of now, Upsher-Smith sees 6 ANDA pending approval.

CHC Operations

Bora Group has increased holdings of Sunway Biotech to 42.27% through a private placement at $NT 596 million. Subsequently, Sunway completed the acquisition of Weider Global Nutrition (WGN), a global nutritional supplements company with offices in the US, Spain, and Germany and products sold in over 60 countries. Benefitting from the consolidation of WGN that started in May, Consumer Health business totaled NT$824.76 million in 2Q26, a 354.4% increase QoQ and 234.3% YoY. Focusing on longevity and sports nutrition, WGN’s distribution strength is expected to meaningfully contribute to the CHC business in 2026 and beyond and shall deliver vertical-integration synergies to Sunway’s existing ingredients’ manufacturing operations. Together, the WGN acquisition is expected to catapult Sunway Biotech into a leading global nutritional supplements company and substantially accelerate top and bottom-line improvements in the future.

Recent Investor Conference

Bora will host English online earnings call at 8:00 a.m. Taiwan time on Aug. 14^th, 2026. The event will cover the Company’s 2Q26 financial and business results and 2H26 outlook.

English Online Earnings Presentation Link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/225504163505748?p=UyyncWl1CnOzjBCNKD

Bora will participate in Goldman Sachs 2026 CDMO day in Singapore in Sept. For 1:1 meetings with management, please contact your GS representative.

Bora 2026 Earnings Schedule

Q3 2026: Expected in the 2^nd week of Nov 2026
Q4 2026: Expected in the 2^nd week of Mar 2027

Hashtag: #BoraGroup

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

About Bora

Founded in 2007, Bora Pharmaceuticals (“Bora” or “the Company”, 6472.TW and BORAY.OTCQX) is a leading pharmaceutical services company with a vision and goal of “Contributing to Better Health All Over the World”. Operating under a “Dual Engine” model that integrates CDMO and commercial expertise, we empower pharmaceutical and biotech partners to optimize product development, accelerate launches, and scale supply to meet global patient needs. At the same time, we actively broaden R&D and sales infrastructure, focusing on niche and rare disease markets to improve patients’ quality of life.

By investing in talent, infrastructure, and biologics expansion, Bora continues to transform operations and achieve sustainable growth. Committed to making success “certain,” Bora sets new standards in the pharmaceutical and CDMO industries.

For more, please visit:
https://www.bora-corp.com
https://www.boracdmo.com

Disclaimer:

This document and the accompanying information may contain forward-looking statements. All statements regarding the company’s future business operations, potential events, and prospects (including but not limited to forecasts, targets, estimates, and operational plans) are considered forward-looking statements unless they refer to factual occurrences. Forward-looking statements are subject to various factors and uncertainties that may cause significant differences from actual results, including but not limited to price fluctuations, actual demand, exchange rate variations, market share, competitive conditions, changes in the legal, financial, and regulatory framework, international economic and financial market conditions, political risks, cost estimates, and other risks and variables beyond the company’s control. These forward-looking statements are based on current predictions and assessments, and the company disclaims any responsibility for future updates.

• New 20,000 sqm facility will more than triple Kuehne+Nagel’s Container Freight Station capacity in Cambodia
• Strategic location strengthens cross-border connectivity between Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam
• Expanded facility supports customers in the consumer goods industry

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 August 2026 – Kuehne+Nagel has invested in a new Container Freight Station (CFS) in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Scheduled for completion in June 2027, the facility will provide more than 20,000 sqm of warehouse space, helping customers manage growing trade volumes and move goods more efficiently within Cambodia and across the region.

Cambodia continues to strengthen its trade infrastructure, with Phnom Penh Autonomous Port handling around 600,000 TEUs and Sihanoukville Autonomous Port approximately 1.3 million TEUs in 2025. Complementing this growth, the new CFS is strategically located near key transport gateways, including both ports, Phnom Penh International Airport and cross-border road links to Thailand and Vietnam, facilitating cargo movements across the country and supporting regional logistics operations.

David Roussiere, Managing Director, Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar, Kuehne+Nagel, said: “This investment will more than triple our CFS capacity in Cambodia and strengthen our logistics capabilities in the country. With direct access to key transportation gateways and regional trade corridors, the facility will support customers in the consumer good industry as they navigate evolving supply chains and growing trade opportunities across the region.”

Designed for cargo consolidation and handling operations, the new CFS will feature a raised-floor warehouse equipped with loading doors and dock levellers. It will offer a floor loading capacity of five tonnes per square metre and is expected to be certified to ISO 9001, ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 standards.

The facility will also incorporate sustainability features including solar panels, skylight roofing, LED lighting, battery-operated forklifts, water infiltration systems and rainwater management infrastructure.

The investment reflects Kuehne+Nagel’s continued focus on strengthening its logistics infrastructure in high-growth markets and supporting the expansion of regional and international trade.

Hashtag: #Kuehne+Nagel

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

About Kuehne+Nagel

With approximately 88,000 employees across over 1,300 sites in close to 100 countries, the Kuehne+Nagel Group is one of the world’s leading logistics providers. Headquartered in Switzerland and listed on the Zurich stock exchange, it is the global number one in Air and Sea Logistics and holds strong market positions in Road and Contract Logistics. Supporting around 400,000 customers worldwide, the Group draws on its global network, logistics expertise, and data-driven insights to deliver end-to-end supply chain solutions for global companies and industries.

Vinpearl has officially been named the strongest hotel brand globally in 2026 by Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy, with its brand value surging 86% to US$381 million. This marks the first time a Vietnamese brand has claimed the No. 1 position in global hotel brand strength and entered the Top 50 Most Valuable Hotel Brands in the World. Vinpearl’s remarkable breakthrough not only elevates the stature of the company, but also helps establish a new position for Vietnamese tourism on the international stage.

With a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 95.4/100 and an AAA+ rating, Vinpearl has surpassed a host of renowned hospitality names to rank No. 1 globally in hotel brand strength.

The Brand Strength Index (BSI) score reflects a brand’s overall strength, encompassing investment performance, customer and partner consideration, and its ability to generate business value.

The AAA+ rating is the highest level in Brand Finance’s brand strength rating system.

Alongside its No. 1 ranking, Vinpearl’s brand value also recorded a record increase of 86% to US$381 million year on year, enabling the company to enter the Top 50 Most Valuable Hotel Brands in the World for the first time.

Vinpearl’s position in brand strength has been driven by accelerated growth across all areas of its operations.

Specifically, in terms of financial strength, in 2026, VPL shares were included in the VN30 Index. Vinpearl also successfully raised US$255 million from SeaTown Holdings, Oman Investment Authority and Vietnam Oman Investment.

In terms of market development, Vinpearl has continued to expand its global connectivity in 2026, signing strategic cooperation agreements with leading international and regional partners, including Agoda, AirAsia MOVE, BeMyGuest, GlobalTix, Klook, CAITO, Thomas Cook India, SOTC Travel, MakeMyTrip, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International, among others. These partnerships aim to increase international visitor flows and enhance service quality across Vinpearl’s system.

In terms of products and services, Vinpearl has continued to expand its multi-segment tourism, hospitality and entertainment ecosystem in 2026. Key initiatives include the launch of Vinpearl Legendlux, a six-star ultra-luxury hotel brand; the introduction of VinFun, a new-generation hotel brand designed to cater to a broader range of guests; the development of Vin New Horizon, a wellness and senior living offering; the premiere of the spectacular stage production “The Grand Epic of Vietnam”; and the launch of The Vietnam Grand WeddX 2026, a new-generation platform for exhibitions and industry connections in Vietnam’s wedding sector.

The collective efforts of the entire ecosystem in 2026 have driven Vinpearl’s remarkable rise in rankings, from being the leading hotel brand in Southeast Asia to becoming the strongest hotel brand globally .

Beyond Brand Finance, the strength of the Vinpearl ecosystem has also been continuously recognized by leading global tourism organizations and platforms. In 2026, VinWonders Nha Trang became the only representative from Vietnam to be included in the Top 100 Global Best Family-Friendly Attractions; Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An received the ASEAN Green Hotel Award 2026; while Vinpearl’s hotels and resorts and VinWonders properties have continued to receive recognition from Booking.com, Agoda and Trip.com, among others, through rankings and awards.

Recognition from the world’s leading tourism rating organizations serves as an important source of motivation for Vinpearl to further elevate its ecosystem, bringing destinations and experiences imbued with Vietnamese identity closer to domestic and international travelers. The company is moving toward its goal of becoming a leading global tourism and hospitality brand, while contributing to elevating Vietnam’s position on the world tourism map.

Hashtag: #Vinpearl

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

About Brand Finance

Brand Finance Plc is the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy, founded in 1996 in London, United Kingdom. It is the only company with a brand valuation methodology that complies with the ISO 10668 international standard for brand valuation, with a presence in more than 20 countries worldwide. Brand Finance reports are used by numerous countries, governments and leading global corporations.

Every year, Brand Finance conducts valuations of more than 70,000 brands worldwide. This marks the 10th year that Vietnam has been included among the countries whose brands are valued by Brand Finance, with Brand Finance Asia-Pacific, headquartered in Singapore, responsible for publishing the rankings.

About Vinpearl

Established in 2003, Vinpearl is Vietnam’s leading brand in tourism, hospitality, entertainment and experiential travel. After more than two decades of development, Vinpearl currently operates 62 properties across 20 provinces and cities.

Its ecosystem comprises 35 five-star hotels and resorts with more than 17,500 rooms; 15 VinWonders theme parks featuring a diverse range of attractions suitable for guests of all ages; six world-class golf courses; and four international-standard VinPalace convention centers and theaters.

The ecosystem also includes two semi-wildlife animal conservation and care parks and one equestrian academy, among other offerings. Particularly notable are Vinpearl’s impressive and distinctive “million-dollar” live shows, staged at destinations including Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, which attract millions of visitors each year.

The yuan has gained about 3.6 per cent against the dollar this year, making it one of Asia’s strongest-performing currencies. The advance has persisted despite falling Chinese government bond yields and a widening yield disadvantage against US Treasuries, conditions that would normally encourage capital to favour the dollar. Strong export receipts and increased conversion of dollar earnings by exporters have instead provided sustained support for the currency.

Pressure intensified after the US and Japan intervened to strengthen the yen at the end of July. The operation marked the first coordinated action by Washington and Tokyo to support the Japanese currency since 1998, following a slide that took the yen to four-decade lows. US authorities had also alerted major banks to be prepared for possible intervention through the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, highlighting Washington’s concern about excessive currency volatility.

The yen subsequently surrendered roughly half of its initial gains, but the intervention had broader consequences across Asian foreign-exchange markets. South Korea’s won, the Singapore dollar and the Taiwan dollar have shown relatively high correlations with yen movements, while several other regional currencies have been less sensitive. The spillover has reinforced a wider trend towards appreciation in currencies exposed to North Asian trade and investment flows.

For Beijing, the stronger yuan presents a complicated policy trade-off. Appreciation reduces the local-currency cost of imported commodities and can provide some insulation against inflation generated by energy prices. It can also create more room for monetary easing because policymakers need to worry less about triggering capital outflows or destabilising depreciation.

The cost is greater pressure on exporters at a time when foreign demand has become an increasingly important support for economic activity. China’s export machine has remained resilient while household consumption, property investment and parts of the private economy have struggled to regain momentum. A rising yuan makes Chinese products more expensive abroad and reduces the value of exporters’ overseas earnings when converted back into local currency.

The People’s Bank of China has appeared increasingly willing to moderate the currency’s advance. Daily yuan reference rates have been set weaker than market expectations at times, signalling a preference for slowing appreciation rather than allowing the currency to rise unchecked. China operates a managed exchange-rate system in which the central bank establishes a daily midpoint and permits the onshore yuan to trade within a defined band around that fixing.

The yuan traded around 6.75 per dollar on Wednesday after strengthening through the 6.80 level earlier this year. Exporters have continued selling dollars when the US currency rises, while central-bank guidance has kept the appreciation gradual. Market forecasts generally point towards further controlled yuan strength rather than a rapid revaluation.

The currency’s resilience highlights an unusual divergence inside China’s economy. Long-term sovereign yields have declined as investors price weak domestic demand and subdued inflation, while the yuan has strengthened because of trade surpluses and exporter dollar conversions. China’s current-account surplus has expanded significantly as manufacturing exports have outpaced imports and domestic spending.

That divergence could influence the timing of the next monetary-policy move. One scenario would see the central bank reducing its benchmark policy rate by 10 basis points to 1.3 per cent before the end of the year, using currency strength as protection against depreciation pressure. Expectations remain divided, however, with many economists anticipating unchanged rates through 2026 as policymakers assess inflation, financial stability and the effectiveness of previous easing measures.

July inflation data strengthened the case for additional support. Consumer-price growth slowed to its weakest pace in six months, while producer-price pressures eased, renewing concerns that deflationary forces could return if domestic demand remains subdued. Higher energy costs had previously reduced expectations for further easing.

Currency policy is also becoming more closely tied to trade tensions. China’s expanding manufacturing surplus has generated demands among trading partners for a stronger yuan, particularly as exports of vehicles, machinery, electronics and clean-energy equipment increase. A materially stronger exchange rate would weaken some of that competitive advantage but could also reduce political pressure surrounding trade imbalances.

Multidisciplinary Tertiary Hospital with Comprehensive Surgical Capabilities

As a multidisciplinary tertiary hospital, Thomson offers minimally invasive surgery across a broad range of specialties through laparoscopic, thoracoscopic (VATS), endoscopic, arthroscopic, and microsurgical approaches.

Thomson has also further expanded to its wide range of surgical offerings with two advanced procedures: the Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA), a scarless thyroid surgery performed through the mouth that eliminates visible neck incisions, and laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis, a keyhole procedure that enables the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis through small incisions. Together, these procedures provide patients with more treatment options while supporting faster recovery where clinically appropriate.

Dr Savitha Dharan, Chief Executive Officer of Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara, explains, “Our aim is to provide patients with access to comprehensive, outcome driven surgical care under one roof. By continuously expanding our minimally invasive surgical capabilities, we empower our multidisciplinary teams to tailor the most appropriate treatment for every patient while delivering care that prioritises safety, precision and better patient outcomes.”

Advancing Surgical Care Through Technology

This next-generation integrated surgical energy platform brings multiple surgical energy technologies together on one platform, equipping surgeons with advanced technology that supports greater surgical precision and shorten overall procedure times. By combining tissue dissection and vessel sealing on a single platform, it enables more efficient surgical workflows targeted in reducing operating times, tissue trauma and recovery time where clinically appropriate.

“When investing in technology, Thomson’s main priority is delivering value-based care; we want better patient outcomes, operational efficiency and long-term value for both patients and our clinical team. This platform allows us to do just that – perform precise minimally invasive procedures and help deliver safe, effective care tailored to each patient’s clinical needs,” Dr Savitha expanded further.

Supported by experienced multidisciplinary teams and modern operating theatres, Thomson continues to invest in technologies that enhance surgical capabilities and improve the overall patient journey.

Supporting Sustainable Healthcare

Beyond its clinical benefits, this advanced integrated surgical energy platform aligns with Thomson’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments by reducing equipment redundancy and improving operating theatre efficiency. This enables the hospital to optimise resource utilisation while continuing to deliver high-quality patient care.

The introduction of the advanced integrated surgical energy platform marks another milestone in Thomson’s ongoing investment in advanced medical technologies, reinforcing its position as one of Malaysia’s leading private hospitals committed to innovation, clinical excellence and patient-centred care.

KKLIU 3218 / EXP 31.12.2028

Hashtag: #ThomsonHospital

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

About Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara

Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara (“Thomson”), the flagship hospital of TMC Life Sciences Berhad, is a multi-disciplinary tertiary care centre strategically located in the prime alcove of Kota Damansara, Selangor, established in 2008. Thomson holds a capacity for 554-beds including 25 critical care beds, and houses more than 160 consultant specialists across over 60 specialties and sub-specialties.

An award-winning institution, Thomson’s regional accolades include recognition by Newsweek and Statista as one of Asia’s Top Private Hospitals and Clinics 2026, awarded the Specialist Hospital of the Year, and Specialty Hospital of the Year – Malaysia in 2024 for paediatric services and in 2025 for pulmonology services.

Guided by its vision to be the “Premier Provider of Outstanding Value-Based Medical Services in Southeast Asia”, Thomson remains committed to clinical excellence and is poised for continued growth to meet evolving healthcare needs.

For more information, please visit thomsonhospitals.com or follow THKD on social media platforms @thomsonhospitalKD.

Hashtag: #AllianzCommercial

https://commercial.allianz.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allianz-commercial/

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

About Allianz Commercial

Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or film productions. Powered by the employees, financial strength, and network of the world’s #1 insurance brand, we work together to help our customers prepare for what’s ahead: They trust us in providing a wide range of traditional and alternative risk transfer solutions, outstanding risk consulting and Multinational services as well as seamless claims handling. Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either through our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2025, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated around €17.3 billion in gross premium globally. https://commercial.allianz.com/

Chief Sales Officer Visits Hong Kong, Partners with VSC Building Products Company Limited to Mark a New Chapter

Championing Design Excellence, Innovation and Sustainable Water Technologies

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 August 2026 – Hansgrohe Group, one of the world’s leading premium bathroom and kitchen brands, celebrates its 125th anniversary with an official visit to Hong Kong by Christophe Gourlan, Member of the Executive Board and Chief Sales Officer of Hansgrohe Group. As a key stop in the Group’s Asia anniversary programme, the visit reaffirms Hansgrohe’s long-term commitment to the Hong Kong market and formally introduces VSC Building Products Company Limited as the brand’s newly authorised distributor in Hong Kong, marking the beginning of a new phase of growth and collaboration.

The anniversary celebrations in Hong Kong also mark a significant milestone for the premium hansgrohe brand locally — the grand opening of a dedicated hansgrohe display at the VSC A&D Centre, located at 1/F, East Town Building, 41 Lockhart Road, Wanchai. The newly unveiled showroom showcases multiple award-winning collections and the latest innovations, offering architects, designers, developers and consumers an immersive experience of the brand philosophy: “Life is Waterful.”

125 Years of Heritage: Where Design Meets Innovation

Founded in 1901 in Schiltach, Germany, in the Black Forest, Hansgrohe has evolved from a small workshop into a globally renowned premium brand with a presence in over 150 countries. For 125 years, the company has been synonymous with German engineering excellence, technological innovation and award-winning design, earning prestigious international accolades including the iF Design Award, Red Dot Design Award and German Design Award.

Among its most iconic and celebrated product innovations are:

Raindance series, including the new Raindance Alive, redefining showering with distinctive spray technology and elegant aesthetics;
Rainfinity, offering a new dimension of immersive showering with ultra-soft PowderRain spray and avant-garde design;
Pulsify, a compact shower solution ideal for urban living, featuring water-saving PowderRain technology;
Finoris faucet collection, equipped with a pull-out spray and dual spray modes, combining flexibility with contemporary design;
Kitchen innovations such as Talis M54 and Metris M71, enhancing kitchen functionality with precision engineering and premium materials.

Hansgrohe’s pioneering technologies include Select technology, enabling intuitive control of water flow at the touch of a button, alongside sustainability-driven innovations such as EcoSmart, AirPower and CoolStart, significantly reducing water and energy consumption without compromising comfort.

Under its ambitious “ECO 2030” initiative, Hansgrohe aims to equip all products with water-saving technologies by 2030, embedding sustainability at the core of product development.

Today, approximately 200 employees worldwide are dedicated to research, development and innovation management. The Group operates innovation centres in the Black Forest and, since 2023, in Shanghai, strengthening localisation and responsiveness to the China and Asia-Pacific markets. Products launched within the past three years account for approximately 30% of the Group’s total revenue — a testament to its dynamic innovation pipeline and market competitiveness.

Deepening Presence in Hong Kong: A New Milestone with VSC

Looking ahead, the collaboration between Hansgrohe and VSC will focus on enhancing customer touchpoints and brand visibility across Hong Kong. Key initiatives include strengthening point-of-sale presentation, elevating experiential showroom displays, and supporting trade partners through comprehensive product training, marketing activations and after-sales excellence.

VSC has also outlined a strategic development plan encompassing showroom enhancements, PR and digital marketing campaigns, product portfolio alignment and sales team training, reinforcing the brand’s position in Hong Kong’s high-end residential and commercial project segments.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Christophe Gourlan, Member of the Executive Board and Chief Sales Officer of Hansgrohe Group, said:

“Hong Kong remains an important market for Hansgrohe, and our 125th anniversary is a meaningful moment to reaffirm our long-term commitment to the region. With VSC as our new authorised distributor for the hansgrohe brand, we are strengthening our ability to bring premium German quality, innovation and sustainable water experiences closer to customers, designers and trade professionals. We also deeply appreciate the continued support of our long-term partners, including H2O, as we build the next chapter of Hansgrohe’s growth in Hong Kong together.”

Hashtag: #HansgroheGroup

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About Hansgrohe

Founded in 1901 in the Black Forest, Germany, Hansgrohe stands for holistic bathroom and kitchen experiences that combine water- and energy-saving technologies, intelligent functionality and long-lasting quality. With timeless design and innovative premium products, the brand supports sustainable lifestyles and transforms everyday water routines into extraordinary experiences.

About VSC Building Products Company Limited

Established in 1997, VSC Building Products Company Limited specialises in supplying sanitary ware, fittings and kitchen cabinet solutions for commercial buildings, shopping malls, hotels, hospitals, residential developments and airports. The company provides free consultation and design services, logistics coordination, technical support and kitchen installation.

In April 2013, VSC opened its first Architectural & Design Centre in Hong Kong. The company has also recently introduced integrated Smart Toilet IoT solutions, enhancing both user experience and property management efficiency.

Enquiries:
VSC A&D Centre
1/F, East Town Building, 41 Lockhart Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2238 2628
Fax: (852) 2169 2980
Email: [email protected]

By Dr. Nilanjan Banik The protesters at Jantar Mantar, whose protest is now over for the time being, had good reason to be angry. The NEET paper leaks are one symptom; the deeper problem is youth unemployment. Young and educated Indians account for a significant share of the unemployed, while underemployment remains widespread. At a […]

The article Beyond Incentives: Why India’s MSMEs Need Stronger Ecosystems? appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

New DHL daily flight service on Boeing 767 freighter strengthens connections between China, Indochina, the Middle East and Europe

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 August 2026 – DHL Express has added a new direct flight between Shanghai and Bangkok, increasing capacity on a trade lane linking China and the rapidly growing economies of Indochina. The new flight route, Shanghai-Bangkok-Bahrain*-Brussels-Shanghai, significantly enhances connectivity among manufacturing, sourcing, and consumption markets across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

Operated by a DHL Boeing 767 freighter with a maximum payload of 50 tons, the new daily service demonstrates DHL Express’s ongoing investments in network capacity and infrastructure to strengthen connectivity for customers in high-growth markets. Equally, it also reflects DHL’s constant review of evolving trade patterns and swift action to adapt to those changes.

“This route is a direct response to how trade flows in Asia are shifting,” said Peter Bardens, Senior Vice President for Network Operations & Aviation – Asia Pacific, DHL Express. “We’re seeing increasing movement of goods between China and Southeast Asia, alongside continued demand from customers in Europe and the Middle East for products manufactured across the region. This new route boosts our network where customers need it most, providing additional capacity and more direct connections between key production and consumption markets.”

Bangkok serves as a strategic gateway to the Indochina region, while Bahrain and Brussels are key DHL Express hubs. The introduction of the Shanghai-Bangkok route enables DHL Express to efficiently consolidate shipments originating from China and Southeast Asia before connecting them to destinations across Europe and the Middle East.

The direct flight comes at a time when manufacturers and traders in markets such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos are sourcing more from China. For many customers, those shipments are part of production chains that stretch across multiple countries. As trade links between China and Southeast Asia deepen, DHL Express is improving speed, flexibility and network resilience for customers moving materials, components and finished products across Asia and onward to global markets. Last month, DHL Express also expanded its Shenzhen gateway, located at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport. The facility can handle 900 tons of cargo daily – approximately three times the original throughput – as it supports booming cross-border trade and e-commerce shipments in China.

At the same time, businesses in Europe and the Middle East continue to trade heavily with their peers in China and Southeast Asia for a wide range of products, from electronics and industrial components to consumer goods. As international business activity remains highly dispersed across global markets rather than concentrating within regions, the new route opens more trading opportunities for businesses while strengthening access for both regions.

As both intra-Asia and global trade flows continue to show resilience, DHL remains focused on investing in its dedicated air network. Another recent example includes the introduction of a new transpacific service by DHL Global Forwarding that connects Southeast Asia and the United States. These expansions seek to better connect businesses to global markets as well as build more agile supply chains.

*Note to editor: Due to the current conflict in Middle East, flights are tentatively diverted to other locations in the Middle East.
Hashtag: #DHLExpress #Globaltrade #Indochina

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DHL – The logistics company for the world

DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivaled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With approximately 389,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 82.9 billion euros in 2025. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

As the first full year following the island-wide special customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP), 2026 has been designated the “Marine Tourism Year,” with a strategic focus on ocean-themed cultural travel. Leveraging policy dividends such as visa-free access for citizens of 86 countries, expanded traffic rights, and offshore duty-free shopping, Hainan has consistently enhanced its openness to the world, fueling a surge in cultural tourism demand. In the first half of this year alone, the island recorded over 1 million inbound visits, a year-on-year increase of 48.8%, underscoring the robust growth momentum of the FTP’s tourism sector.

In Wanning’s Riyue Bay, the international media group experienced firsthand the rapid expansion of Hainan’s coastal sports industry. Renowned as a world-class surfing destination, the bay receives more than 500,000 visits annually, drawing travelers from as far as Australia and Southeast Asia. A major highlight was the nation’s first Olympic-standard artificial surf pool, which employs advanced wave-making technology to simulate 23 different wave types, enabling year-round, all-weather surfing regardless of natural conditions. Mr. Guney Isik Ganimgil, a contributor to Turkey’s Aydınlık newspaper, remarked that Hainan’s cultural tourism development has far exceeded expectations and holds tremendous investment potential.

Eco-empowered tourism and the protection of blue bays are the defining hallmarks of Hainan’s development. The Hainan Ocean Paradise Resort adheres strictly to a policy against capturing wild marine life; its rescue center has successfully rehabilitated and released over 200 rare marine creatures, including sea turtles and hawksbills, back into the wild. Meanwhile, Wuzhizhou Island has pioneered an innovative model of eco-tourism, partnering with universities to develop a tropical marine ranch. Through the strategic deployment of artificial reefs and the transplantation of tens of thousands of coral colonies, the island now offers visitors the opportunity to participate in coral transplantation—a hands-on experience that fosters a virtuous cycle between ecological conservation and tourism engagement, earning high praise from the attending media.

Deepening the integration of culture and tourism has also revitalized Hainan’s traditional maritime heritage. The Danjia fishing rafts continue to enrich their authentic marine-ethnic cultural offerings, continuously diversifying their “product portfolio”. Tianya Town, built around a century-old fishing village, has evolved into a coastal leisure landmark, now home to nearly a hundred boutique homestays and specialty cafés. The Sanya International Duty-Free Shopping Complex, housing over 1,000 international brands, has introduced cutting-edge “duty-free + technology” consumption scenarios. And the Sanya Yacht Tourism Center, with a complete industrial chain, recorded over 220,000 yacht outings in 2025, cementing its status as a premier destination for high-end coastal tourism.

After four days of in-depth exploration, the media delegation witnessed a Hainan that is open, green, and vibrantly dynamic. Today’s Hainan FTP has transcended the traditional model of seaside tourism, with policy as its backbone, ecology as its canvas, and culture as its soul. By continually energizing the blue economy, Hainan is presenting a compelling new vision of high-quality development to the world.

Hashtag: #HainanFreeTradePort

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By Nantoo Banerjee India’s eighth post-Independence census of 2027, coming after a gap of almost 16 years, assumes a great importance in the country’s political system as it will lift the long-standing freeze on redrawing Parliamentary boundaries. The census report will provide the official population data required under Article 82 of the Indian Constitution to […]

The article India’s 2027 Census Will Help Redraw Parliamentary Boundaries appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).