Auto China 2026 closed in Beijing on Sunday after setting new benchmarks for scale, attendance and vehicle premieres, reinforcing China’s position as the central battleground for electric vehicles, intelligent driving and next-generation automotive supply chains.
The 19th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, held from April 24 to May 3, brought together nearly 1,000 companies from 26 countries and regions across two venues for the first time. Its 380,000 square metres of exhibition space, spread across 17 halls at the China International Exhibition Center in Shunyi and the Capital International Convention and Exhibition Center, made it the largest edition in the event’s history.
Organisers recorded 1.28 million visitors, including about 65,000 overseas attendees, underlining the show’s growing appeal beyond China’s domestic market. A total of 1,451 vehicles were displayed, including 181 world premieres and 71 concept cars, placing the event among the most active global platforms for new model launches.
The numbers told only part of the story. Auto China 2026 was dominated by a clear shift from conventional vehicle launches to software-defined mobility, artificial intelligence, battery breakthroughs and advanced driver assistance. Carmakers used the show not merely to present new models, but to demonstrate how quickly vehicles are becoming technology platforms.
China’s home-grown manufacturers were at the centre of the exhibition’s momentum. BYD, XPeng, Nio, Geely, Chery, Dongfeng and Huawei-linked brands showcased vehicles and systems aimed at defending their lead in the world’s largest car market while accelerating overseas expansion. Their focus was sharply aligned with consumer demand for longer range, faster charging, smarter cabins and more automated driving functions.
BYD highlighted fast-charging and low-temperature battery performance, including technology designed to charge under conditions as cold as minus 30 degrees Celsius. CATL drew attention with new battery systems promising ultra-fast charging and longer driving ranges, including a version of its Shenxing battery that can charge from 10 per cent to 98 per cent in about six and a half minutes. These advances added further pressure on global rivals still working to close gaps in battery cost, charging speed and supply-chain depth.
Huawei’s presence illustrated the growing power of technology suppliers inside the automotive ecosystem. Its intelligent driving systems, HarmonyOS cockpit technology and vehicle partnerships featured prominently across several brands. The company’s Qiankun advanced driving system was presented as part of a broader push into AI-assisted mobility, with claims of stronger collision avoidance and more natural in-car interaction.
XPeng used the event to promote intelligent driving features that can detect when a driver is unable to control the vehicle, pull over automatically and alert emergency services. Nio displayed its three brands, Nio, Onvo and Firefly, together at the same booth, signalling a wider product strategy covering premium, family and mass-market electric segments.
Foreign automakers also used Beijing to reset their China strategies. Volkswagen introduced China-focused electric models and AI-driven cockpit features developed with local partners, including XPeng and Horizon Robotics. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota presented products tailored to a market where customers increasingly expect high-end digital functions even in mid-priced vehicles.
The competitive pressure remains intense. China’s passenger car sales fell sharply in the first quarter from a year earlier, reflecting weaker subsidy support, cautious consumers and price competition across the sector. Exports, however, continued to expand strongly as China-made vehicles gained ground in Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin America and other growth markets.
That divergence shaped much of the discussion around the exhibition. Domestic demand is tougher, margins are thinner and consolidation risks are rising, yet China’s automakers and suppliers are moving faster on product cycles than many overseas competitors. More than 80 new models were launched in China in March alone, a pace that underscores the speed of iteration in the market.
Auto China 2026 also showed that global expansion is entering a new phase. Chinese manufacturers are no longer relying only on exports. Several are building or planning overseas production bases to reduce tariff exposure, ease regulatory concerns and strengthen local market access. Hungary, Turkey, Southeast Asia and Latin America have emerged as important destinations for investment.
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US$8 billion ultra-premium integrated commercial property debuts new lifestyle destination located along Shanghai’s iconic Huangpu River waterfront
New “Enjoy Life” brand theme highlights premium tenant mix of designer retail and lifestyle brands
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2026 – Hongkong Land Holdings Limited (“Hongkong Land” or the “Company”) marked a key milestone with the opening of Phase Two at Westbund Central, its flagship ultra-premium integrated commercial property in Shanghai’s Xuhui District that is one of the largest mixed-use developments in the world. This stage of the US$8 billion project’s rollout is complemented by its new “Enjoy Life” brand theme, reinforcing the district’s role as a dynamic environment for work, living and leisure.
Photo 1: (From left to right) Mr. Raymond Wong, Director & Head of Property Development, Westbund Central; Mr. John Simpkins, General Counsel, Hongkong Land; Ms. Alfreda Zeng, Chief Operating Officer, Ping An Real Estate; Mr. Stuart Grant, Chief Executive, Westbund Central; Ms. Gan Jin, Vice Chairman, Shanghai West Bund Development Group; Mr. Craig Beattie, Chief Financial Officer, Hongkong Land and Ms. Vera Wu, Director & Head of Commercial Property, Westbund Central.
The Phase Two commercial launch introduces a diverse mix of global first stores, designer labels, and flagship concepts that reinforce Westbund Central’s position as a new downtown in Shanghai. New tenants include international icons such as Issey Miyake, the multi-brand boutique SND, Leica Store & Gallery, artisanal Swiss chocolatier House of Läderach, and design houses HAY and Paulmann.
With a planned total gross floor area of more than 1.7 million square metres, Westbund Central is the Company’s largest-ever single investment and brings together a diversified commercial mix that includes more than 600 international retail and lifestyle brands, 180 food and beverage operators, more than 50,000 square metres dedicated to cultural and art facilities, as well as 650,000 square metres of premium Grade A offices that will house occupiers including globally renowned companies such as adidas and lululemon.
While Phase One centred on food and beverage, cafes, and sports and leisure facilities, Phase Two enhances the district’s prestige by focusing on designer lifestyle brands. Looking ahead, Phase Three will introduce a cluster of global luxury maison flagships to further boost the district’s international appeal. Around 12,000 square metres of retail space is already open, with an additional 30,000 square metres opening within this year.
Michael T. Smith, Group Chief Executive of Hongkong Land, said: “Westbund Central is a fresh and dynamic example of our strategic focus to develop ultra-premium, integrated commercial districts in Asia’s leading gateway cities. As Hongkong Land’s largest single investment to date and our flagship China property, Westbund Central is one of the most significant projects in the company’s portfolio and designed to deliver sustained long-term value.”
Stuart Grant, Chief Executive of Westbund Central, said: “Westbund Central is being shaped as Shanghai’s new downtown and we are incredibly proud to build one of the largest mixed-use properties in the world that redefines modern urban living. We are creating a globally renowned ‘city within a city’ where the finest quality office, retail, residential and hospitality components converge in a single vibrant destination where people can truly enjoy life.”
As further phases are delivered, Westbund Central will continue to reinforce its position as one of Shanghai’s most significant integrated commercial districts and a cornerstone of the company’s long-term growth strategy in its portfolio. Hashtag: #HongkongLand
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Westbund Central
Hongkong Land’s Westbund Central is the Group’s largest-ever single investment. Scheduled to complete in phases up until 2028, it is an US$8 billion development encompassing approximately more than 1.7 million sq. m. of prime mixed-use property strategically located at Shanghai’s Xuhui Waterfront. It is a flagship development of Hongkong Land’s prime commercial properties’ CENTRAL Series. The ultra-premium integrated commercial property includes 240,000 sq. m of retail space, 650,000 sq. m. of premium Grade A offices, 160,000 sq. m. of high-end waterfront luxury residences, two hotels (55,000 sq. m.) and over 50,000 sq. m. of cultural and art venues.
Hongkong Land
Hongkong Land is a major listed property development, investment and management group. It focuses on developing, owning and managing premium and ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. With over US$50 billion in assets under management, Hongkong Land’s ultra-premium mixed-use real estate footprint spans over 1.97 million sq. m. lettable area in operation and 1.43 million sq. m. lettable area under development, with flagship mixed-use projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. Established in 1889, Hongkong Land takes a long-term view, investing significantly alongside its capital partners and concentrating its portfolio where it can create the most value for tenants, customers and investors. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Singapore and Bermuda. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.
India’s electronics manufacturing drive has gained fresh momentum after Ashwini Vaishnaw said the country was positioned to become a trusted global value chain and supply chain partner, placing semiconductors, mobile phones, artificial intelligence infrastructure and component manufacturing at the centre of its industrial strategy.
The Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Railways and Information and Broadcasting made the remarks at the ground-breaking ceremony of the Google Cloud India AI Hub in Visakhapatnam, a project carrying an estimated investment of $15 billion. The facility, planned with Adani ConneX and Airtel Nxtra, will include a 1GW hyperscale AI data centre, with about 600 acres allocated across Turluvada, Rambilli and Adavivaram in Andhra Pradesh.
Vaishnaw’s comments reflect a broader policy effort to shift India’s role from assembly-led electronics manufacturing to deeper participation in global technology supply chains. The government is seeking to build domestic capability across finished devices, modules, sub-modules, components, raw materials, tools and manufacturing machinery, a progression seen as essential for reducing import dependence and gaining a larger share of global production.
Mobile phones remain the strongest evidence of that transition. Electronics production has risen from about ₹1.9 lakh crore in 2014-15 to about ₹11.3 lakh crore in 2024-25, while electronics exports climbed from about ₹38,000 crore to about ₹3.3 lakh crore over the same period. Mobile phone production expanded from about ₹18,000 crore to roughly ₹5.5 lakh crore, and mobile phone exports rose from about ₹1,500 crore to nearly ₹2 lakh crore, making the category one of the country’s most visible export successes.
Smartphones have become a leading export product, with Apple, Samsung, Tata Electronics, Foxconn, Dixon Technologies and other manufacturers playing prominent roles in the production ecosystem. The shift has been supported by the Production Linked Incentive scheme for large-scale electronics manufacturing, which helped attract global brands and contract manufacturers to expand capacity. The sector’s next phase, however, will depend less on assembly incentives and more on the availability of components, precision engineering, skilled labour, predictable taxation and faster logistics.
The Google Cloud project adds a digital infrastructure dimension to this manufacturing agenda. Vaishnaw urged global technology companies, including Google, to consider manufacturing servers, GPUs and chips in the country, arguing that the domestic data centre boom could create demand for high-value electronics and advanced computing hardware. Visakhapatnam is being positioned as an artificial intelligence hub, with subsea cable links expected to improve global connectivity through routes connecting Australia, the Middle East, Europe, Africa and the United States.
Semiconductors are the most strategic part of the plan. The India Semiconductor Mission has already helped draw investment into assembly, testing, marking and packaging facilities, chip design centres and fabrication proposals. Approved projects across several states include packaging units, display driver chip capacity and compound semiconductor facilities. The sector remains capital-intensive and technologically demanding, and India is entering a field dominated by Taiwan, South Korea, the United States, Japan, the Netherlands and China. Timelines, execution quality and ecosystem depth will determine whether the country can move beyond packaging and design services into higher-value production.
The government’s target of building a $500 billion domestic electronics ecosystem by 2030-31 is ambitious. It requires not only export-led growth but also a domestic supplier base for printed circuit boards, camera modules, batteries, displays, sensors, connectors, power electronics and semiconductor materials. Without local component depth, headline export gains can mask high import content, limiting value addition and leaving manufacturers exposed to currency swings and global supply disruptions.
Industry executives have generally welcomed the policy focus but continue to point to operational challenges. High logistics costs, customs procedures, dependence on imported inputs, limited component clusters, power quality, land acquisition delays and uneven state-level implementation remain constraints. Global companies also compare India with Vietnam, Mexico, Malaysia and Thailand when allocating production, making policy certainty and execution speed critical.
Labour availability is one of India’s advantages. Electronics manufacturing has generated large-scale employment, including substantial hiring of young women in assembly lines and component facilities. This has helped states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat compete for investment. Yet sustained growth will require improvements in industrial training, factory housing, transport, safety standards and career progression, particularly as production moves from assembly to precision manufacturing.
Geopolitics has created an opening. Companies are diversifying supply chains because of trade tensions, tariff risks, pandemic-era disruptions and concerns over concentration in China. India’s democratic institutions, large market, engineering talent and improving infrastructure make it a credible candidate for “China plus one” strategies. The challenge is to convert interest into anchored manufacturing networks that include suppliers, tooling companies, testing labs, logistics providers and research partnerships.
Building upon its expertise in Europe, Rhenus is expanding its road freight solutions in Asia Pacific
The strategic move will see dedicated expertise and resources to better support the region’s demand for fast and reliable freight transportation options
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2026 – With demand for road freight services across Asia Pacific rising, leading global logistics provider Rhenus Group has announced plans to further expand its road freight operations in the region. As part of its broader regional growth strategy, the company is strengthening cross-border trucking across Southeast Asia and key corridors between Greater China and Southeast Asia. Building on this, it is continuously integrating road with air and ocean freight, while scaling local distribution, sourcing and leveraging existing free trade zone warehousing capabilities.
As part of this expansion, Rhenus is investing in local capabilities to support individual market needs including the recent establishment of its Bukit Kayu Hitam Border Office in Malaysia, with full customs capabilities to support smoother cross-border movements.
Prem Anand Anandaverl, Regional Director of Cross Border Trucking Asia, Rhenus Logistics notes, “Our goal is to provide a seamless connectivity to the global network by reinforcing a comprehensive road freight service and continue to help businesses to move their goods across Asia efficiently and compliantly. Road Freight is playing an increasingly important role in building a resilient supply chain especially in this region.”
Asia Pacific to see high demand for road freight services
The global freight trucking market size [1] is projected to be valued at US$2.74 Tn in 2025 and is set to reach US$3.70 Tn by 2032, growing at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 3.9%. Asia Pacific remains a key growth driver, supported by expanding industrial output, a large consumer base, and rapidly developing logistics infrastructure enabling both domestic and cross-border trade.
Achieving Sustainable Growth through Road Freight: Consistency, Scalability and Increasing Customer Value
With more than 150 owned and partner road freight locations in Europe, Rhenus currently operates in over 15 countries through a well-established network. The expansion of road freight services in Asia Pacific will enable the company to further integrate its’ end-to-end supply chain solutions, combining road freight solutions with air and ocean services to deliver more flexible and customized logistics solutions globally.
Ongoing investments in multilingual local teams, dedicated border infrastructure, and best practice transport management systems will support seamless cross-border operations, stronger customs and regulatory expertise across markets.
Leveraging its rail connections between Greater China and Europe, alongside a robust multimodal network spanning sea, land, and rail, the company aims to provide customers with greater flexibility and scalability in response to evolving supply chain demands. The company is also working with partners to improve CO₂ tracking and explore alternative fuel options, supporting more sustainable road freight operations.
[1] Based on analysis by Persistence Market Research
Hashtag: #Rhenus
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Rhenus
The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 8.2 billion. 39,000 employees work at 1,300 business sites in more than 70 countries and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.
Asian equities advanced sharply on Monday as artificial intelligence-linked chipmakers in South Korea and Taiwan drove regional benchmarks back towards record territory, erasing the losses triggered by the Iran war and restoring investor appetite for technology-heavy markets.
The MSCI Asia Pacific Index rose as much as 2.3 per cent on May 4, its strongest intraday gain since April 8, while the MSCI Asia Pacific excluding Japan Index climbed as much as 2.9 per cent. Benchmarks in South Korea and Taiwan, both heavily exposed to the semiconductor supply chain, gained more than 4 per cent each as investors moved back into companies seen as central to the global AI build-out.
The rally was led by the region’s dominant AI hardware suppliers, including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. These companies sit at crucial points of the AI infrastructure chain, from advanced foundry production to high-bandwidth memory chips used in data centres and graphics processors. Strong earnings from US technology groups have reinforced expectations that capital spending on AI servers, accelerators and cloud infrastructure will remain elevated through 2026.
TSMC has become the clearest symbol of that shift. The world’s largest contract chipmaker posted a 58 per cent jump in first-quarter net profit to a record level, supported by demand for AI processors, and guided second-quarter revenue to $39 billion to $40.2 billion. Its first-quarter revenue rose 35 per cent from a year earlier to about $35.7 billion, underlining the scale of orders tied to advanced computing.
Samsung’s semiconductor division also delivered a major earnings rebound, reporting 53.7 trillion won in operating profit for the first quarter on 81.7 trillion won in revenue. The group said memory sales were lifted by AI-related demand and tight supply, even as its mobile and display businesses faced margin pressure from higher component costs.
SK Hynix has benefited from its strong position in high-bandwidth memory, a category that has become central to AI accelerator performance. Demand from data centre operators and chip designers has pushed memory makers into long-term supply arrangements, with shortages expected to extend into 2027 as customers reserve capacity years ahead.
Taiwan’s broader market has also gained from the AI trade. The island’s economy expanded 13.69 per cent in the first quarter, its fastest annual pace in nearly four decades, supported by a surge in exports tied to AI hardware. Taiwan has overtaken Canada to become the world’s sixth-largest stock market by value, helped by TSMC’s rise and investor demand for companies embedded in advanced chip manufacturing.
Investor confidence has been strengthened by Nvidia’s expanding Asian supply chain. Its partners now span foundries, memory suppliers, electronics assemblers and companies linked to robotics and so-called physical AI. The shift has widened the rally beyond a handful of chip names, lifting component makers and specialist suppliers that provide substrates, packaging, power management and memory-related technologies.
The rebound also reflects a broader reassessment of geopolitical risk. The Iran war initially prompted investors to cut exposure to export-oriented and energy-importing markets, particularly those vulnerable to shipping disruptions and higher fuel costs. Yet the scale of AI-related earnings growth has helped offset those concerns, with funds favouring economies that are directly tied to semiconductor demand and less dependent on domestic consumption.
South Korea’s Kospi has been one of the year’s standout performers, supported by Samsung, SK Hynix and other technology exporters. Taiwan’s Taiex has also outperformed as investors price in continued demand for advanced nodes, AI servers and high-performance computing. The concentration of gains, however, has increased concerns that regional indices are becoming more dependent on a narrow set of semiconductor companies.
Valuations remain a key risk. Share prices in several AI-linked companies have risen faster than earnings forecasts, leaving markets exposed to any slowdown in capital expenditure by US cloud providers or delays in chip production. Memory supply shortages may support pricing in the near term, but they could also raise costs for downstream electronics makers and intensify competition among suppliers expanding capacity.
Currency movements have added another layer to the market response. A weaker won has supported earnings translation for South Korean exporters, while Taiwan’s market has drawn stronger foreign inflows on expectations that AI-linked exports will keep growth elevated. Japan’s yen strengthened during Monday’s regional trading, reflecting a mix of safe-haven demand and shifting expectations around monetary policy.
Laying the Foundation for Long‑Term Growth in Japan Through Seamless Customer Experiences and Trusted Local Expertise
TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2026 – Arrow Electronics (NYSE: ARW), a global technology solutions provider, today announced the integration of Chip One Stop’s e‑commerce capabilities into arrow.com, strengthening its omnichannel customer engagement in Japan. By bringing together Arrow’s global resources, supplier network, and digital tools with Chip One Stop’s trusted local expertise, the integration delivers a more seamless and consistent customer experience while laying a strong foundation for long‑term growth.
Through the integration on arrow.com, customers in Japan gain access to a single, scalable destination that continues to offer Japanese‑language support and local services, while expanding their access to Arrow’s broader ecosystem. Arrow’s Yokohama warehouse will continue to operate as an important logistics facility in Japan, supporting stable and efficient fulfilment. Eligible orders can typically be delivered within 24 hours in Japan and in many South Asian markets, with delivery timelines in other Asia‑Pacific countries varying by destination.
Electronic components and technology solutions are foundational to Japan’s manufacturing, innovation, and technology ecosystems. On arrow.com, customers can access an integrated interface that supports discovery, evaluation, transaction, and related services.
Arrow’s omnichannel engagement approach enables customers to seamlessly manage design, engineering, supply chain services, and fulfillment—helping speed time‑to‑market. Customers benefit from access to engineering expertise, reference designs, bill of materials (BOM) optimization, lifecycle management, and integration support to move from concept to production more efficiently. At the same time, real‑time pricing, inventory visibility, cost‑optimization tools, and advanced analytics enable smarter supply‑chain decisions, risk mitigation, and compliance for critical applications. A more agile digital foundation also supports faster response to urgent needs and evolving market conditions.
“This transition builds on the trusted relationships our customers value in Japan while expanding how we support them,” said Aiden Mitchell, Arrow’s chief growth officer, global semiconductor. “By combining strong local execution with Arrow’s global platform, we are well positioned as a trusted solution provider—supporting customers and suppliers from product inception through supply chain and go‑to‑market execution.”
As part of the integration, chip1stop.com has been retired, with e‑commerce operations now available on arrow.com as of May 4, 2026. Chip One Stop’s operations and services will be integrated into Arrow, with existing services continuing without interruption.
For more information, visit www.arrow.com. Hashtag: #ArrowElectronics
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Arrow Electronics
Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW) sources and engineers technology solutions for thousands of leading manufacturers and service providers. With 2025 sales of $31 billion, Arrow’s portfolio enables technology across major industries and markets. Learn more at arrow.com.
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NEW DELHI, INDIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 May 2026 – The Indo-Pacific region continues to be the focal point of global growth dynamics and strategic competition, and relations between Vietnam and India are facing new opportunities to develop in a deeper, more substantive, and more sustainable manner. Building on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2016, cooperation in the fields of economy, science and technology, and environment has increasingly been identified by both sides as key pillars.
In 2024, the two sides adopted an Action Plan to implement the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for the 2024-2028 period. This document not only consolidates traditional areas of cooperation but also expands into new domains such as science and technology, innovation, digital transformation, energy and sustainable development.
Economy continues to be a bright spot in bilateral cooperation
Over the past decade, Vietnam-India economic cooperation has recorded significant positive developments. Bilateral trade turnover has maintained steady growth, increasing from over USD 14 billion in 2023 to nearly USD 16.5 billion in 2025, reflecting the increasingly close integration between the two dynamic Asian economies.
The structure of two-way trade has increasingly demonstrated complementarity. Vietnam has strengthened its exports of electronics, machinery, processed agricultural products, wood, and seafood, while India serves as an important supplier of steel, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and textiles to Vietnam.
Amid the ongoing restructuring of global supply chains, both Vietnam and India are intensifying efforts to diversify their partners and reduce dependency risks. This creates significant room for the two countries to promote supply chain linkages in areas such as processing and manufacturing industries, supporting industries, logistics, and high-tech agriculture. Vietnam, with its strategic location in Southeast Asia, can serve as a gateway for Indian enterprises to expand their presence deeper into ASEAN, while India represents a vast market with rapidly increasing consumer demand.
Science and technology: a new driver for deeper cooperation
Scientific and technological cooperation has seen remarkable development recently, gradually shifting from exchanges to more substantive collaboration, tied to specific products and developmental needs. Priority areas of cooperation include information technology, biotechnology, clean energy, and digital transformation.
Several representative projects, such as the Satellite Data Receiving Station and Satellite Image Processing Center, the Vietnam-India Nuclear Science Center (Da Lat), the Army Software Park (Nha Trang), and the Center of Excellence in Software Development and Training (CESDT), have been contributing to enhancing Vietnam’s technological capacity. Notably, the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program continues to be an effective channel for human resource training, helping Vietnamese officials and experts access modern management knowledge and experience.
Against the backdrop of the vigorous Fourth Industrial Revolution, the potential for cooperation between the two countries remains vast. The two sides can expand their cooperation into emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, cybersecurity, fintech, and biotechnology, aiming for the goals of co-development and co-innovation.
Environmental cooperation and sustainable development are gradually expanding
In the context of increasingly complex climate change, environmental cooperation between Vietnam and India is becoming an important component of the bilateral agenda. Areas such as renewable energy, water resource management, circular economy, and disaster-resilient infrastructure are receiving growing attention and promotion from both sides.
Cooperation agreements in marine science, along with Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) supporting communities, such as clean water supply, drought mitigation, and saline intrusion prevention in the Mekong Delta, have delivered practical results. Vietnam’s participation in the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), initiated by India, also opens up opportunities to strengthen cooperation in sustainable infrastructure and climate change adaptation.
In the coming period, areas encompassing solar energy, energy storage, waste management, marine pollution monitoring, and early warning systems for natural disasters are considered promising directions for cooperation.
Prospects for cooperation
The prospects for cooperation in the coming period are assessed as positive. With the economic and scientific-technological complementarity, along with strong political will from both sides, Vietnam-India relations have many favorable conditions to grow more strongly, particularly in areas such as the digital economy, green economy, innovation.
Orientations for promoting cooperation in the coming period
With a foundation of excellent relations and significant room for cooperation, the two countries have the basis to elevate the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to a new height, making it increasingly substantive and effective in the new phase, particularly in the context of the two countries heading towards new high-level engagements with the state visit of General Secretary and President To Lam to India in May 2026.
To effectively capitalize on opportunities, both sides need to continue maintaining high-level exchanges, intergovernmental mechanisms and specialized dialogues, and further translate strategic commitments into cooperation programs and projects with clear roadmaps and resources.
In the economic field, efforts should be intensified to remove trade barriers, improve logistics connectivity, and promote the review and upgrading of the ASEAN – India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA); strengthen the development of large-scale investment projects in priority areas such as pharmaceuticals, the marine economy, renewable energy, and supporting industries.
In the field of science and technology, establishing joint research cooperation mechanisms, strengthening linkages between research institutes, universities, enterprises, as well as promoting expert exchanges, technology transfer, and human resource training will play an important role.
In the environmental field, efforts should be directed toward building a comprehensive green cooperation framework, focusing on water management, marine science, plastic pollution reduction, clean energy, and disaster-resilient infrastructure, while also effectively leveraging regional initiatives such as the CDRI.
Hashtag: #MAE
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 May 2026 – Building on its remarkable success in Singapore and Indonesia, Petite Fleur is thrilled to announce its expansion into Malaysia with the launch of Petite Fleur KL.
Petite Fleur KL Team
This strategic growth marks a significant milestone in the company’s long-term vision to establish itself as the leading florist in the Asia-Pacific region. By bringing its renowned craftsmanship, unique floral designs, and premium floral arrangements to customers in Kuala Lumpur, Petite Fleur is poised to deliver the same quality service that has made it a trusted name in Singapore and Indonesia.
Petite Fleur KL aims to captivate customers in Malaysia with its signature floral artistry, featuring luxury flower arrangements, preserved flowers, and balloon flower bouquets. Specially curated to suit local preferences, the collection combines an enchanting blend of tradition and contemporary elegance in Kuala Lumpur. This expansion reflects the brand’s mission to spread joy through flowers while strengthening its reputation as a leading online florist in Singapore and beyond.
Filling a Gap in the Market
Market research has highlighted a growing demand for premium, same-day flower delivery services in Kuala Lumpur. With this valuable insight, Petite Fleur KL is committed to providing fresh, handcrafted floral arrangements tailored to every occasion, from celebrations and anniversaries to heartfelt gestures. With a seamless online experience, the brand extends its hallmark reliability and quality—renowned in Singapore and Indonesia—to customers in Malaysia. By doing so, the brand sets a new standard for premium floral services in the region.
A Vision for the Future
Patricia, the visionary owner of Petite Fleur, sees this expansion as a pivotal step toward becoming the leading florist in Asia Pacific. “Our goal is to create everlasting memories with every bouquet we deliver,” Patricia shared. “With fresh flower gifts and bespoke floral arrangements, tapping into Malaysia’s market allows us to reach more customers while deepening our connection to diverse cultures and preferences.”
This expansion allows the brand to better serve its international corporate clients, who can now place orders with the same trusted florist in Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia. Employees also benefit from the company’s growth, gaining valuable experience by working with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds. This fosters an inclusive and dynamic workplace.
Although still in its early stages, Patricia is confident in the brand’s potential. She plans to expand into more markets within the next two years. This regional approach sets Petite Fleur apart from competitors focused on a single market, ensuring continued success across Southeast Asia. Hashtag: #petitefleurmy #petitefleurkl #floristkl #floristsg #flowerdeliverykl #flowerdeliverymalaysia
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Petite Fleur KL
Petite Fleur is a trusted name in Singapore, known for its premium flower bouquets and fast, reliable same-day flower delivery services.
With a keen eye for detail and a deep passion for spreading love, Petite Fleur crafts unique floral arrangements that captivate and inspire, turning every occasion into a memorable moment.
The brand continues expanding its reach and now offers exceptional services across Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Discover more about their exquisite offerings at Petite Fleur now!
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 May 2026 – Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), led the National Innovation Agency (Public Organization) or NIA, along with Thai Union Group PCL, Mahidol University, and leading corporate partners including Thai Beverage PLC, Nestlé (Thai) Ltd., and new partner Foodland Ventures from Taiwan, to launch “SPACE-F Year 7”. This is Thailand’s first global foodtech startup incubator and accelerator program, continuing the success of solving food industry challenges through sustainable innovation.
SPACE-F Batch 7
Prof. Dr. Yodchanan spoke about elevating “SPACE-F Batch 7” to the policy level and building awareness, stating that MHESI aims to present food innovation products from the startups in this batch at the upcoming Cabinet meeting. This will allow the Prime Minister to taste them, raising awareness that FoodTech is the nation’s new future. The products will be presented to the Cabinet in the next two weeks.
Regarding the core concept of combining technology with “Thai taste,” Prof. Dr. Yodchanan emphasized that no matter how advanced the technology is, it must maintain the “Nice taste of Thailand.” He cited a “high-tech omelet” he previously tasted as an example, noting that there is still room for improvement to make it taste closer to an authentic Thai omelet so that the technology can truly win over consumers’ hearts.
The MHESI Minister continued that regarding food innovation under the Wellness Economy, this year focuses on using the Wellness Economy as a New Growth Engine. This is not limited strictly to food but includes AI, ICT, and software, aiming to push Thailand into a global Wellness Tourism Hub with support from the BOI in connecting investment opportunities.
Prof. Dr. Yodchanan further stated that regarding the use of biodiversity and quality ingredients (Biodiversity & GI), startups will be encouraged to utilize Thailand’s rich biodiversity and GI products as substitutes for imported raw materials. This will help reduce costs and create a unique identity.
“As for connecting the ‘Thinker’ with the ‘Doer,’ this program emphasizes linking startups with large industrial corporations and investors. This helps startups in the Accelerator group advance toward Series A or B funding, while helping the Incubator group learn business and pitching experiences from their seniors to cross the business ‘Death Valley.’ Furthermore, regarding food and nutrition security in the era of war: in the current global conditions facing wartime situations, Food Security and Nutrition Security are vital. This program is an opportunity for startups to create innovations that help solve problems for the whole world, with the government working closely with SPACE-F to create new services and products,” the MHESI Minister said.
However, “SPACE-F Batch 7” features 20 participating startups from 10 countries, focusing on the Proof of Concept (POC) strategy to ensure they can tangibly grow toward commercialization on an international scale.
Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (NIA), stated that NIA aims to strengthen the potential of startups and innovative entrepreneurs to overcome business crises and grow commercially in a tangible way. Over the past 6 years, the SPACE-F program has concretely reinforced its role as a regional food innovation hub by incubating and accelerating over 100 startups from 18 countries worldwide, generating a total funding value of over 5.1 billion THB. For the SPACE-F Year 7 program, it marks another major milestone of leapfrog growth, setting a new international record with an all-time high of 204 applicants, continuously increasing from 156 in Cohort 6 and 148 in Cohort 2, reflecting the confidence of global startups in the program’s potential. Concurrently, the program has significantly expanded its international reach, with applicants from 57 countries worldwide, up from 34 countries in the previous cohort, affirming that SPACE-F is a truly global platform connecting and driving world food innovation.
“The SPACE-F program is considered a vital mechanism in driving the development of a strong and comprehensive foodtech startup ecosystem by systematically connecting knowledge, technology, and the industrial sector together. Particularly, it provides opportunities for startups to co-develop and test real products (Proof of Concept: POC) with large corporate partners, as well as access expert networks and world-class infrastructure. This includes testing protein innovations focused on appearance, freshness, and taste with Thai Union; developing modern health and nutrition solutions with ThaiBev and Nestlé; utilizing deep-tech research laboratories from Mahidol University; and enhancing fundraising capabilities from Foodland Ventures, which plays a crucial role in reducing business risks and effectively increasing the chances of commercialization. For SPACE-F Year 7, it aims to elevate startup development through 2 main programs: the Incubator Program, which focuses on laying business foundations and developing prototypes into market-ready products, and the Accelerator Program, which focuses on accelerating business expansion through connections with strategic partners and investors. This covers 7 key areas of the food industry: 1) Personalized Nutrition, 2) Future Protein, 3) Circular Food Systems, 4) Smart Manufacturing, 5) Sustainable Production, 6) Food Safety, and 7) Novel Consumer Experience, to build high-potential startups capable of developing quality new products that directly meet market demands, ready to compete and grow sustainably on the global stage.”
Ms. Sirichit Jiraruangkiat, Senior Director – Group Innovation at Thai Union Group PCL, revealed, “As a co-founding partner of the SPACE-F program, Thai Union Group PCL continues to drive the development of Thailand’s foodtech startup ecosystem. We aim to support breakthrough growth by promoting the development and testing of innovations at the industrial level, particularly through the Proof of Concept (POC) process, to elevate the standards of future protein products to compete internationally. Thai Union prioritizes the application of modern food production and preservation technologies, covering everything from maintaining product quality and freshness and developing appealing appearances to sensory research to create textures and flavors that effectively meet the demands of global consumers. Simultaneously, the SPACE-F program remains committed to a ‘No Equity Taken’ approach, allowing startups to retain full ownership of their innovations, maintain business agility, and grow independently and sustainably in the long term.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pasit Pakawatpanurut, Deputy Dean for Research and Innovation, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, further added, “With expertise in food science, nutrition, biotechnology, and related fields, Mahidol University serves as an academic powerhouse and innovation infrastructure, providing startups with access to advanced laboratories, pilot plants, and modern research equipment. They also receive in-depth consultation from a team of expert researchers to successfully transition research into products that truly meet global market demands (Lab-to-Market). This collaboration is therefore a key mechanism in driving sustainable food innovation and enhancing Thailand’s competitiveness as a global foodtech hub. Mahidol University’s involvement in the SPACE-F program also plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s foodtech startup ecosystem in the long run.”
In addition, another key partner is Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, which places great importance on continuous research and development, believing it to be essential for startups. As a sponsor of the SPACE-F program, they are pleased to be part of an ecosystem that enhances the potential of foodtech startups and provides business and technological guidance to help startups discover solutions that truly meet the needs of the global food market.
Ms. Jenica Conde Cruz, Business Manager – Cereal Partners Worldwide & Incubator at Nestlé (Thai) Ltd., also stated, “Nestlé, a global leader in food and beverages, plays a vital role as a strategic partner of the SPACE-F program. We aim to elevate foodtech startups through the transfer of Research & Development (R&D) knowledge and product development experience under the ‘Good food, Good life’ concept. Nestlé also provides in-depth consultation to support the development of products that meet Nutrition, Health, and Wellness needs, while promoting the use of innovation to tackle global food industry challenges. In parallel, Nestlé also drives the development of innovations that align with sustainability goals by opening opportunities for startups to learn together with experts from our global research center network, in areas of food preservation technology, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible sourcing.”
Victor Chen, CEO of Foodland Ventures Co. closed with, “Foodland Ventures, a leading Venture Capital firm and Accelerator from Taiwan, has joined as a strategic partner in the SPACE-F program to push foodtech startups to expand their businesses into international markets. We aim to act as a bridge connecting innovation from Taiwan with food industry networks in Thailand and Southeast Asia. With expertise in key technologies such as Restaurant Automation, Alternative Protein, and Smart Supply Chain, Foodland Ventures is ready to support startups through access to the Taiwanese market and resources, providing investment and business strategy consultation, and connecting them with the industrial sector to test solutions in real-world environments. This collaboration marks a significant step in building a ‘FoodTech Corridor’ between Thailand and Taiwan to elevate startup potential and drive the food industry toward a sustainable global future.”
The “SPACE-F Year 7” program also introduced 20 startups from 10 countries worldwide: South Korea, Spain, Canada, USA/Argentina, Australia, Singapore, UK, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, and Thailand, selected for this year’s program. All will have the opportunity to co-develop and test real innovations with leading industry partners, covering product development, industrial-level testing, and commercialization in the real market
Such collaboration is a key highlight of the program, providing startups the opportunity to test technology and innovations in real-world environments, reducing development limitations, and increasing the chances of creating business models that accurately meet market demands.
10 FoodTech Startups Joining the Accelerator Program
Terra Bioindustries Inc (Canada): Upcycles agricultural and food industry waste into high-value ingredients such as sugar, protein, and fiber for use in the food, biotech, and chemical industries.
Nucaps (Spain): Develops functional protein ingredients using microencapsulation technology to wrap active substances and probiotics, enhancing nutritional value, reducing costs, and improving taste to effectively promote consumer health.
BeNatureBioLab (South Korea): Develops functional ingredients using nano and microencapsulation technology from natural proteins to wrap active substances and probiotics, increasing the stability, absorption, and efficiency of substances in food, supplements, and health products.
Kinava (South Korea): Converts food waste into biofertilizer, biochar, and biogas within hours using HydroThermal Carbonization (HTC) technology, which reduces odor, energy use, and emissions.
ComexSoft (Spain): A near real-time market intelligence platform that collects and organizes retail data, matching similar products specifically developed for accurate decision-making.
PROTINOS (Thailand): High-protein noodles made from egg whites and soybeans containing complete essential amino acids, created using enzyme incubation techniques, serving as food to help care for and protect health.
SicPama (South Korea): A QR ordering and payment platform with a CRM system that links social media with actual service usage and repeat visits, helping restaurants measure returns and increase revenue.
Nourish Ingredients (Australia): High-performance animal-free fats created via precision fermentation to solve the taste and texture issues of plant-based alternative foods by mimicking the key fats found in meat and dairy products.
Kresko RNAtech (USA/Argentina): Nutrients from biological RNA found in natural foods, developed by AI and biotechnology to be more stable and better absorbed, for use in dietary supplements and health products.
Agrifreeze (Singapore): Develops freezing technology using Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) to control the formation of small ice crystals, reducing food damage and maintaining quality close to fresh products.
10 FoodTech Startups Joining the Incubator Program
Eatwellconcept (Thailand): An AI-powered personalized therapeutic diet platform for NCD patients, offering real-time nutritional guidance by dietitians to improve health and quality of life.
AmaranthLab (UK): Protein ingredients from amaranth for GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) nutrition to control blood sugar levels and satiety, for use in various functional food products.
Openfarming (Saudi Arabia): An AI operating system for food distributors that converts orders from multiple channels into real-time data, enabling automated demand forecasting and dynamic inventory management without changing existing workflows.
Zuppar Reborn (Thailand): Biodegradable fruit and bakery stickers made from pineapple waste, replacing plastic labels with an alternative that can decompose into fertilizer.
VeriPura (Thailand/Singapore): An AI and Blockchain platform for automated document management and product traceability, making food exports to Europe easier and more compliant with regulations (EU).
YiXingYuan (Taiwan): A modular small-scale fruit processing factory (Factory-in-a-box) utilizing High Voltage Electric Field (HVEF) technology to process fruits directly at the source, preserving product quality while reducing energy use, costs, and spoilage.
JOLA (Thailand): Vitamin-infused jelly pet food that develops DIY treat products, such as jellies for dogs and cats, focusing on natural ingredients, good nutrition, and creating a shared experience between owners and pets.
UPLI (UK): A precision fermentation platform to create functional proteins with characteristics similar to human breast milk, used to increase nutritional value in food at an industrial scale.
Emerald Plast (Thailand): Biodegradable food materials and packaging made from starch and bioplastics to replace traditional plastics, reducing environmental impact and enhancing sustainability image.
Squizify (Thailand): A digital food safety platform integrating software and IoT devices to automatically track, monitor, and manage food business standards, complete with real-time data analysis.
NEGERI SEMBILAN, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 May 2026 – Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) has formalised a strategic collaboration with MILA University through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), marking a significant step in enhancing academic progression pathways for students.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting diploma graduates in continuing their studies at degree level, while ensuring a smoother and more structured transition into higher education.
A Strategic Collaboration for Student Progression
The agreement was formalised by Dr. Chua Ping Yong, Chief Executive Officer of MCKL, and Mr. Cao Qi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MILA University, in the presence of representatives from both institutions.
Through this collaboration, a clear articulation pathway is established for MCKL students to continue their academic journey at MILA University, enabling a smoother transition into undergraduate studies with greater confidence and direction.
Expanding Opportunities Through Articulation Pathways
As part of this collaboration, students from selected MCKL diploma programmes have the opportunity to progress into MILA University’s bachelor’s degree programmes in Computer Science and Business Management.
The pathway covers diploma fields such as Computer Science, Information Technology, Digital Business, Digital Marketing, and Financial Technology, ensuring that students from diverse academic backgrounds have access to relevant progression pathways.
Strengthening Industry-Relevant Education Through Collaboration
Beyond academic progression, this collaboration underscores a mutual commitment to delivering industry-relevant education that equips students with practical skills and real-world competencies. By aligning curriculum pathways and fostering closer engagement between both institutions, MCKL and MILA University aim to ensure that graduates are not only academically prepared but also adaptable to evolving industry demands. This partnership creates opportunities for enhanced learning experiences, bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and professional application, and ultimately empowering students to thrive in a competitive global workforce.
For over four decades, MCKL has built a strong reputation for nurturing students who not only excel academically but also develop the values, character, and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. With a student-centred approach, the college emphasises holistic education, balancing academic rigour with personal growth, leadership development, and community engagement, so that graduates are well-prepared for both university and life beyond the classroom.
MCKL provides prospective students and parents with valuable opportunities to explore its diverse programmes, interact with lecturers, and gain insights into campus life and progression pathways. Whether students are seeking a strong academic foundation, clear progression routes, or a supportive learning environment, MCKL continues to position itself as a trusted launchpad for future success. To learn more, visit mckl.edu.my or connect with the MCKL team at upcoming events.
Original Source: MILA University Original Article: MILA University Strengthens Academic Pathways Through Collaboration with MCKL Website: https://www.mila.edu.my
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL)
Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) was founded by the Methodist Council of Education in 1983, its campus sitting in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and branch campus in Pykett, Penang, known as the MCKL College (Penang, Pykett Campus). MCKL is now an QA Approved Centre delivering Advanced Diplomas focusing on Business and Computing: Software Development. It also offers programmes in the pre-university pathway for subjects including Cambridge A-Level, Australian Matriculation; the American Degree Transfer, Diploma courses Digital Business, Digital Marketing, IT (Internet of Things Focused), Computer Science (data science focused), Early Childhood Education, Social Work, and Financial Technology. Over the years, MCKL has been highly recognised for its track record and gold standard achievements of its pre-university programmes and its overseas degree pathways.
Oil at $80 would once have been considered elevated. Now it would be interpreted as stability, and that shift alone reveals how fundamentally the market has changed. Brent crude moving beyond $120 this week is widely being described as a spike driven by geopolitical tension. That interpretation is too narrow. Price action reflects something deeper and more consequential: a structural reset in how energy is priced, traded, […]
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Japan’s yen rallied sharply against the dollar on Friday as traders braced for further official action from Tokyo after suspected currency intervention jolted global markets during a packed week of central bank decisions.
The dollar fell to around 155.60 yen at one point in London trading, before recovering part of the move to trade near 156.40. The rebound in the yen followed a dramatic reversal on Thursday, when the Japanese currency strengthened by about 3 per cent after the dollar briefly climbed above 160 yen, a level widely viewed in markets as politically sensitive for Tokyo.
Japan’s top currency official Atsushi Mimura said authorities remained concerned about speculative moves and were watching markets closely. Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama had already warned that Tokyo was ready to take decisive action if currency movements became disorderly. The comments reinforced market expectations that further intervention could follow, particularly during Japan’s Golden Week holiday period, when thinner trading conditions can magnify exchange-rate swings.
Bank of Japan money-market data suggested authorities may have spent about 5.48 trillion yen, or roughly $35 billion, to support the currency on Thursday. The scale would be close to the size of Japan’s July 2024 intervention, when authorities moved after the yen weakened to a 38-year low near 162 per dollar. Tokyo typically does not confirm intervention immediately, preferring to disclose monthly figures later, but unusually large projected fund flows at the central bank often provide an early signal of official activity.
The pressure on the yen has been building for months as the interest-rate gap between Japan and the United States remains wide. The Bank of Japan kept its policy rate at around 0.75 per cent this week, although three board members dissented and argued for a rise to 1 per cent. That split underlined growing concern inside the central bank that imported inflation, higher energy costs and yen weakness could feed into domestic prices.
The Federal Reserve also left rates unchanged, keeping its target range at 3.5 to 3.75 per cent. The gap between US and Japanese yields continues to encourage carry trades, in which investors borrow cheaply in yen and invest in higher-yielding dollar assets. Such positioning has made the yen vulnerable whenever markets believe Tokyo’s warnings lack force.
The intervention threat gained urgency after oil prices climbed on concerns over disruption linked to the Iran conflict and risks around the Strait of Hormuz. Japan, heavily dependent on imported energy, faces a double blow from higher crude prices and a weaker currency, which raises the local cost of fuel, food and raw materials. That dynamic complicates the Bank of Japan’s effort to normalise policy gradually without damaging a fragile recovery.
The broader central bank backdrop added to volatility. The European Central Bank kept its deposit rate at 2 per cent while signalling that inflation risks had intensified. The Bank of England held Bank Rate at 3.75 per cent in an 8-1 vote, with one policymaker favouring an increase. Across major economies, policymakers are balancing weaker growth signals against renewed price pressures from energy and supply disruptions.
Currency traders said Japan’s challenge is that intervention can slow a slide but rarely reverses a trend unless supported by monetary policy or a shift in global rates. A one-off operation may force investors to cut speculative positions, but renewed dollar strength can quickly restore pressure on the yen if US yields remain elevated and the Bank of Japan moves cautiously.
The timing of the suspected intervention was also significant. With European markets partly thinned by the May Day holiday and Japan heading into an extended holiday stretch, liquidity conditions were expected to remain fragile. Authorities have often chosen moments of thin trading to maximise the impact of currency operations, but such moves also increase the risk of sudden reversals when full market participation returns.
For households and companies in Japan, the exchange-rate battle has direct economic consequences. A weaker yen benefits exporters by raising the value of overseas earnings, but it also lifts import bills and squeezes consumers through higher costs. Large manufacturers have been able to absorb some of the pressure, while smaller businesses reliant on imported inputs face tighter margins.
MILAN, ITALY – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 May 2026 – As the dynamic interplay of light and shadow along the Putuo District section of Suzhou Creek in Shanghai, known as the “Half Marathon Suzhou Creek,” met the artistic atmosphere of Milan Cathedral, a spring dialogue spanning continents opened warmly as part of the “Shanghai in My Mind · Spring Shanghai” pop-up event series in Milan. On April 25, the “Putuo Day” themed event was held at a newsstand in Largo Augusto, Milan. Centered on the theme “Half Marathon Suzhou Creek · Garden of Light,” the event offered local residents an immersive experience of the distinctive charm of Shanghai’s Putuo District.
Light as a Bridge: A Garden of Light in Miniature
Centered on the theme of “Garden of Light,” the pop-up event blended Putuo’s cultural heritage with Milan’s artistic aesthetic, transforming the compact newsstand into four themed spaces: the Light of Development, the Light of Vitality, the Light of Warmth and the Light of Craftsmanship. Together, they created a refined and richly layered exhibition of urban aesthetics.
The Garden Walk zone conveyed the “Light of Vitality,” with artificial greenery recreating the energy of the Suzhou Creek waterfront. Cultural and creative products from the “Half Marathon Suzhou Creek” collection, including sand-art magnets, liquid-motion coasters and custom scarves, added to the lively atmosphere. The Interactive Experience zone embodied the “Light of Warmth,” linking stamp collecting, message sharing and film screenings to create a welcoming space where every visitor could take part in the cross-cultural exchange. The Craftsmanship Heritage zone interpreted the “Light of Craftsmanship,” featuring century-old Hero pens, intangible cultural heritage bamboo weaving and pieces from the Shanghai Mint, highlighting the brilliance of Eastern craftsmanship through light and shadow. The Light and Shadow Window zone represented the “Light of Development.” Warm light passed through suspended golden bookmarks, casting colorful reflections across the walls and floor, echoing the stained-glass windows of Milan Cathedral.
At the event, local residents and visitors posed for photos with light-and-shadow bookmarks, wrote heartfelt messages on postcards, and captured joyful moments with instant cameras. They collected commemorative stamps as keepsakes, experienced the elegance of Eastern writing with Hero pens, and watched the VR film “HI, This Is Half Marathon Suzhou Creek” for an immersive introduction to Putuo. The pop-up event transcended barriers of language and distance, bringing the urban charm of Putuo to people in Milan through experiences that were tangible, engaging and memorable.
Spring Echoes: Suzhou Creek’s Story Continues in Light
The “Spring Shanghai” themed pop-up was not only a city showcase in Milan, but also a dialogue between two cities across Europe and Asia. To extend the memory of this celebration of light, Putuo has created a “Garden of Light” themed corner at the Half Marathon Suzhou Creek Café & Cultural Creative Store, allowing cultural exchanges between the two places to continue to grow.
Inside the store, white magnolias and azaleas feature throughout the décor, symbolizing friendship and dialogue between the two cities. Decorative decals inspired by the stained-glass windows of Milan Cathedral cast colorful patterns of light across the floor, creating an aesthetic connection between Shanghai and Milan. Messages from visitors collected during the Milan event, handwritten postcards and instant photos will be displayed in artistic installations, including a corridor of greetings and a light-and-shadow photo wall reflecting a blend of Chinese and Italian culture. Limited-edition light-and-shadow bookmarks and other themed merchandise will also be introduced, while messages written by Shanghai residents in response will be compiled into a collection, creating a two-way bond of mutual goodwill.
From Milan to Suzhou Creek, Putuo used light as a bridge to continue the friendship between China and Italy across the two cities, while enabling more people to see and understand the story of “Half Marathon Suzhou Creek.”
Vibrant Putuo: Half Marathon Suzhou Creek in Full Flow
Putuo District is actively participating in China’s Yangtze River Delta integration strategy. It supports the development of the Shanghai–Nanjing Industrial Innovation Belt, advances the “one belt, one core, one city” framework, and promotes a vision of a coordinated innovation zone and a high-quality Half Marathon Suzhou Creek area. A digital-driven upgrade of the bulk commodity trade supply chain is currently taking shape. Along the Suzhou Creek waterfront, ecological landscapes are increasingly being transformed into spaces for industrial development. The Zhenru sub-center is speeding up its digital transformation, combining heritage with modern urban functions and integrating cultural and commercial activity. Taopu Smart City is emerging as a hub for R&D and advanced manufacturing, as it moves toward becoming a model for integrated urban-industrial development. Together, these developments are helping drive Putuo’s high-quality growth.
Industrial growth brings urban vitality, and a vibrant city improves people’s quality of life. Building on a solid foundation of high-quality development, Putuo is shaping a livable and business-friendly district defined by energy and human warmth. It is both a hub for sports and an appealing place to live. Major events such as the Suzhou Creek Half Marathon, dragon boat races, the 10km Elite Race and the National Curling Championships showcase the district’s dynamism and competitive spirit. Daily life offers a different rhythm. TOP Central Park provides expansive green space, the RV Music Festival draws crowds with live performances, M50 Creative Park remains a center for arts and culture, and Hong Shou Fang blends Shanghai-style charm with the atmosphere of neighborhood street life. Putuo is working to build a district-wide “15-minute community living circle,” giving residents convenient access to education, healthcare, eldercare and retail services. It is advancing child-friendly urban development, expanding the silver economy to better serve seniors, and creating homes and support services for the city’s builders and frontline workers. Through these efforts, openness, inclusiveness and warmth have become defining features of the district.
America’s four largest AI spenders are pushing capital outlays towards a record level this year, betting that demand for computing power will justify one of the most expensive investment cycles in corporate history. Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet and Meta are preparing to spend roughly $680 billion to more than $700 billion on data centres, chips, servers, networking equipment and related infrastructure in 2026, after quarterly earnings showed […]
Australia’s data centre industry is moving from rapid expansion to sharper scrutiny as new forecasting shows a widening gap between announced projects and capacity likely to be delivered by 2030. A joint market intelligence initiative by Data Centres Australia and DC Byte has put operational IT capacity at about 1.4 gigawatts at the end of 2025, with the market projected to reach 3.1GW to 3.2GW by 2030. […]
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