On August 5, Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV), the investor and operator of Long Thanh International Airport, said it had recently hosted a number of international airlines seeking to assess the infrastructure and explore potential operations at the airport.

On August 3, a delegation from All Nippon Airways (ANA), led by Hiroyuki Masuda, vice president of ANA for Japan, Southeast Asia and Oceania, conducted a survey of the initiative, including viewing the project model and visiting Runway 23L and the passenger terminal.

The runway was previously used by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, and Bamboo Airways during the airport’s technical opening in December 2025.

According to ACV, the visit reflected ANA’s interest in Long Thanh’s operating capacity and development potential. The two sides also discussed potential cooperation once the airport becomes operational.

Earlier, on July 20, Choi Jung Ho, executive vice president of Korean Air, surveyed the passenger terminal, immigration and customs facilities, and cargo terminal. Korean Air is assessing the infrastructure as it prepares to launch passenger and cargo services between Incheon International Airport and Long Thanh.

Kyoung Hee Kang, country manager of Korean Air in Vietnam, said the airline was closely monitoring the project’s progress and working with authorities to prepare for operations.

“We see Long Thanh as having the potential to become a major aviation and logistics hub in the region,” she said.

Korean Air currently operates services to five destinations in Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Danang, Cam Ranh, and Phu Quoc.

According to ACV, it is working with a number of international partners to utilise 21 new routes that currently have no direct services to Ho Chi Minh City for 2025-2030.

Target markets include China including Taiwan, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Thailand, Europe, and the United States. The routes are expected to help generate an initial passenger base and strengthen Long Thanh’s role as a regional transit hub.

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Under the draft, an SEZ would be established in strategically important locations, organised under a distinctive governance model, and operated with exceptional mechanisms to boost the socioeconomic development of the locality, the region, and the country.

The government would decide on the establishment of an SEZ after obtaining opinions from the National Assembly Standing Committee.

Photo: baodautu.vn

The draft outlines two options for determining the establishment criteria. Under the first option, an SEZ must be a coastal EZ already established by the prime minister, with a population of at least 50,000, a minimum area of 500 square km, an international airport or a Class I seaport, a relatively independent geographical space, and designation as a strategic area to be developed into a new growth pole.

The second option authorises the government to issue detailed criteria, providing greater flexibility during implementation.

Beyond expanding the scale of development or offering investment incentives, one of the draft's most notable features is its proposal for a new governance model.

Under this framework, each SEZ would have its own administrative authority established by the provincial government. The chairperson of the SEZ People's Committee would be granted broader powers over personnel management and organisational structure. Customs operations would also be organised under a unified mechanism within the zone to shorten customs clearance times and improve administrative efficiency.

According to experts, the proposal reflects a significant shift in the development mindset for economic zones, moving toward the creation of an integrated development space rather than the overlapping administrative procedures that currently exist.

In central Vietnam, after nearly three decades of development, coastal EZs such as Chu Lai, Dung Quat, Van Phong, Nghi Son, and Chan May-Lang Co have become key growth engines.

These zones have played an important role in attracting investment, promoting industrial development, logistics, and exports, while driving economic growth across many localities.

However, the reality is that after nearly 30 years, there remain significant disparities in the level of development and operational efficiency among the country's economic zones, with many still unable to attract globally significant strategic investors.

Pham Ho Hoang Long, general director of Vinh Hung Energy Investment JSC, revealed that alongside the ongoing review and amendment of several laws, including the Land Law, the study of a SEZ model demonstrates the government's determination to remove institutional delays and create innovative reforms to encourage economic growth and development.

“For central Vietnam, this represents a significant opportunity and marks the beginning of a new approach to the development of coastal economic zones,” he said.

According to Long, after many years of development, the greatest obstacle is no longer land availability or investment incentives, as most economic zones nationwide already offer broadly similar policies on tax exemptions and reductions, land rental incentives, and investment support.

Meanwhile, large-scale projects still have to navigate multiple administrative procedures relating to investment approval, construction, land, environmental compliance, and sector-specific regulations. This would lengthen project preparation time and increases opportunity costs for businesses.

"In the race to entice global investment, the speed of decision-making and the ability to facilitate rapid and effective project implementation are often just as important as tax and financial incentives," Long said.

"Studying the SEZ model should be viewed as a step towards creating a new institutional space where administrative procedures are streamlined, authority is more strongly decentralised, and governance mechanisms become more flexible. Under such a model, competitive advantages will stem from governance capacity and the overall quality of the investment environment, as much as from tax incentives or land rental costs," he added.

Experts noted that central Vietnam's coastal economic zones possess numerous advantages, including deep-water seaports, extensive land reserves for industrial development, strategic connectivity along the East-West Economic Corridor, and their role as emerging hubs for energy, logistics, and processing industries.

However, to transform these natural advantages into genuine competitive strengths, the region requires a sufficiently differentiated institutional framework capable of narrowing the gap with leading investment destinations across the region.

The competitive edge of coastal economic zones will increasingly depend on tax incentives, land availability, institutional quality, governance capacity, and the speed of project implementation.

Carlsberg Vietnam brings joy to 7,500 Central Vietnam households As the Lunar New Year approaches, Carlsberg Vietnam and Huda are continuing their annual tradition of giving back to the community.

Danang positioned as crucial economic hub for Central Vietnam A new development space combined with an international financial hub and free trade zone, supported by special mechanisms, is expected to become a powerful launchpad shaping the central city of Danang into a future megacity.

EU and AFD help North-central Vietnam strengthen resilience to climate threats On May 15, the "Climate Resilient Urban Infrastructure in North-central Vietnam" project concluded its Technical Assistance phase, marking a shift from planning to lasting community empowerment.

Vietnam approves PPP study for $1 billion expressway for Central Vietnam The Ministry of Construction has approved Khanh Hoa province to study a nearly $1 billion expressway linking Nha Trang and Dalat, a project expected to strengthen connectivity and drive regional economic growth.

GreenNode said cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated as attackers harness AI to enhance their capabilities.

“Technology risk is no longer an internal IT issue, but a critical business risk. The insurance industry needs to shift its mindset from passive defence towards resilience, where systems can recover autonomously and maintain business continuity even in the face of a crisis,” said Mai Hai Duong, AI Product Manager at GreenNode.

To build this resilience, Duong said the key question for business leaders is how to use AI reliably.

“Insurance is one of the industries with the largest and most complex volumes of documents, paperwork and records, and every minute of processing delays directly affects the policyholder experience,” Duong said.

“For GreenNode, AI creates real value when it is deployed on infrastructure that is secure, compliant and stable enough to process sensitive data at scale. This is why we developed GreenNode IDP, an advanced evolution of conventional OCR tools and a comprehensive automated document processing platform designed to adapt to the diversity and unstructured nature of insurance records in real-world operations.”

Source: tinnhanhchungkhoan.vn

Thai Huy Chuong, head of Software Development Department at BAOVIET IT Centre, BAOVIET Holdings said that rather than replacing existing systems, BAOVIET has adopted a Hybrid AI approach.

“Claims that can be handled efficiently through rule engines continue to follow the traditional automated process, while exception cases are routed to Agentic AI for deeper analysis and decision support. For high-value claims, AI serves only as an advisory tool, with final decisions remaining the responsibility of claims professionals,” Chuong said. “We also believe that deploying Agentic AI must go hand in hand with a robust AI governance framework. This includes explainability, complete audit trails covering the entire reasoning process, human oversight over key decisions, and strict standards for data privacy and security. Only when these governance mechanisms are in place can AI be deployed responsibly and generate sustainable value for the insurance industry.”

Nguyen Ngoc Tu, chief customer and digital officer of Chubb Life Vietnam. Photo: IEC Group

In an interview with VIR, Nguyen Ngoc Tu, chief customer and digital officer of Chubb Life Vietnam, identified three values that technology will struggle to replace and that life insurers need to preserve to build lasting customer trust: clarity, consistency and care.

“Technology will continue to develop rapidly, from supporting advisory services and data analysis to digitising transactions end-to-end. However, life insurance remains fundamentally a business built on trust,” he said. “In the digital era, customers can access more information than ever, but trust comes from understanding the products they purchase. Insurers therefore need to be transparent about benefits, costs, terms and conditions, and the claims settlement process.”

“Technology can speed up processes, but trust is built when insurers consistently deliver on their commitments. Life insurance is a decades-long commitment, and trust is tested throughout the policy lifecycle, particularly when customers need to make a claim, receive post-sale support or seek assistance during difficult times,” Tu said.

Tu highlighted care, or human empathy, as the final key element.

“However far technology advances, life insurance remains closely connected to everyday decisions about protecting families, preparing for the future and dealing with unexpected events. At such moments, customers need accurate answers as well as someone they trust to listen, empathise and provide advice,” he said.

Bach Ngoc An Deputy CEO of Technology, OPES Insurance From our experience implementing AI in insurance, the most important criterion for deciding whether an AI application is worth investing in and scaling is its ability to create tangible business value. Insurers should not adopt AI simply because it is the latest trend. Every project must be evaluated carefully before investment. AI must first demonstrate clear advantages over existing approaches. In insurance, this can be seen in applications such as intelligent document processing for claims classification and processing, or AI-powered quality assurance that enables managers to focus on high-risk cases instead of conducting random reviews. Data is equally critical. AI models can only perform effectively when trained on sufficient volumes of high-quality data. Insurers should avoid an 'AI first, data later' approach. For example, vehicle recognition and damage assessment models require tens of thousands of training samples before they are ready for production. Finally, AI must be supported by strong governance. Because AI is inherently non-deterministic, insurers need clear risk management frameworks, contingency plans and human oversight. For high-impact decisions such as automated claims rejection or policy approval, AI should support, not replace, human judgment, with appropriate human-in-the-loop controls to ensure accountability.

Ho Quoc Thang Data and AI solutions consultant, SVTECH Before deploying any AI model, insurers should ask four fundamental questions: whether premiums truly reflect underlying risks, whether emerging risks can be predicted early, whether AI models are integrated into daily operations rather than remaining proof-of-concept projects, and whether business users trust model outputs enough to incorporate them into decision-making. Insurance data is typically scattered across core systems, claims databases, customer records, distribution channels and external sources such as weather and public datasets. Individually, these data sources solve only isolated problems. Real value emerges when they are connected to provide a comprehensive view of risk. Data utilisation should be built as a continuous cycle. Every AI model should support a clearly defined business decision rather than simply demonstrating technological capability. Technology alone, however, is not enough. Successful AI adoption requires a strong trust layer comprising data governance, model validation, explainability, continuous monitoring and human oversight. Insurers should start with high-value use cases, implement them on a manageable scale, while designing data architecture and AI models that can scale over time.

Vietnam's life insurance industry to surpass $7 billion by 2030 Vietnam's life insurance industry is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.9 per cent, increasing from $6 billion in 2026 to $7.2 billion by 2030 in terms of gross written premium, according to a report by GlobalData on April 15.

Igloo expands into life insurance with Chubb Life partnership in Vietnam On June 2, Igloo, Southeast Asia’s only full-stack AI insurtech company, announced a strategic partnership with Chubb Life Insurance Vietnam Co., Ltd. and PT Chubb Life Insurance Indonesia, to distribute insurance solutions across Vietnam and Indonesia through Ignite by Igloo, its insurance sales intermediary platform.

Mai Viet Hung Tran, general director, PwC Vietnam

As AI reshapes business, PwC is exploring the leadership priorities that increasingly define success, from enterprise transformation and workforce readiness to governance, trust, and data foundations. The starting point is perhaps the most fundamental: turning AI pilots into measurable enterprise value.

Why many AI programmes stall at pilot stage

The explanation lies in the way AI is currently being approached. Across many organisations, AI adoption remains fragmented, with individual use cases developed in isolation from core business priorities. These efforts often deliver incremental gains, efficiency improvements and faster processing, but rarely scale to transform how the business operates.

At the same time, the market is beginning to draw a sharper distinction between those who are succeeding and those who are not. PwC’s 2026 AI Performance Study finds that approximately 20 per cent of organisations are capturing nearly 74 per cent of AI-driven value, creating a widening gap between a small group of leaders and a much larger group that remains stuck in experimentation mode.

This divergence reflects not a technology gap, but an execution gap. For those that can scale AI effectively, the difference is substantial: our research shows that the most “AI‑fit” companies deliver AI‑driven financial performance more than seven times higher than their peers, underlining how quickly advantage can compound once AI is embedded across the business.

Many organisations have essentially optimised for experimentation rather than transformation. As a result, AI remains adjacent to the business, rather than integral to it. The challenge is therefore one of integration.

From experimentation to reinvention

By contrast, organisations that are realising meaningful returns from AI are shifting from incremental improvement to business reinvention. They are not treating AI as a set of tools layered onto existing processes, but as a catalyst for rethinking how those processes should work in the first place.

Our research highlights this distinction clearly. Leading organisations are significantly more likely to use AI to drive growth, redesign workflows and pursue new revenue opportunities, rather than focusing solely on productivity gains. This is consistent with PwC’s broader concept of the “AI-native enterprise”, in which AI becomes part of core operations rather than a collection of standalone initiatives.

The implications are profound. When AI is embedded in this way, it does not merely accelerate existing processes; it reshapes them. It changes how decisions are made, how customers are served, and how organisations compete. It also creates the conditions for sustained advantage, rather than one-off gains.

For the AI-driven performance leaders, AI improves a wide range of factors that drive superior financial results Q. To what extent has your company’s full AI portfolio improved the following outcomes? Showing only “To a very large extent” and “To a large extent” responses. Source: PwC’s AI performance study

What Vietnamese businesses must do next

For Vietnam, the opportunity is immense. Encouragingly, leaders in Vietnam are already demonstrating a strong understanding of AI’s role in shaping business outcomes, particularly in areas such as growth, customer experience and operational efficiency. The next phase of the journey must therefore shift from exploration to execution. This transition cannot be delivered through technology alone. Enterprise-wide value requires reliable data, clear governance and a deliberate effort to build AI fluency across the workforce.

Data needs to be viewed as a strategic asset rather than a technical input. Scaling AI depends not only on the volume of data available, but on how consistently it is structured, shared and used across the organisation. As AI moves closer to decision-making, the ability to connect data across functions becomes a defining advantage.

Governance is evolving from a compliance requirement into an enabler of scale. As AI becomes embedded in business processes, organisations that establish clear ownership, decision frameworks and risk boundaries early can move faster with greater confidence. In this context, governance supports progress rather than slowing it down.

Equally important is how work itself is changing. Organisations that are seeing sustained impact are not simply introducing new tools but embedding AI into everyday workflows and decision-making. This requires moving beyond pockets of expertise and ensuring that teams across the business can use AI effectively and consistently as part of their roles.

AI will not transform organisations simply because they adopt it. It will transform those that embed it at the core of how they operate and compete. For Vietnamese businesses, in this next phase, success will depend not just on how quickly organisations adopt AI, but on how effectively they build the foundations that allow it to scale with trust and consistency. In the end, AI is an enterprise transformation and leadership story. And those who treat it as such will define the next era of growth.

Keppel ventures integrate residential areas with commercial activities in a suitable urban environment

It pioneered the city’s Grade A office segment with International Centre and Vietcombank Tower, while also developing the premium serviced residence, Sedona Suites Hanoi. These three projects cemented Keppel’s position as an early mover in Hanoi’s high-end commercial real estate market.

Decades after those pioneering developments, Keppel is embarking on a new phase of growth in the capital with a broader and more integrated investment strategy, with Hanoi Centre serving as a defining milestone.

The newly opened Hanoi Centre is also the first retail development that Keppel directly manages and operates in the capital, building on the company’s proven track record with Saigon Centre, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most successful integrated commercial developments.

Offering more than 41,000 square metres of premium retail space and nearly 200 brands across fashion, beauty, dining, and entertainment, including several flagship and first-in-Hanoi concepts, Hanoi Centre has been designed to blend contemporary commercial facilities with Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage.

Located near the Temple of Literature, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and the Old Quarter, Hanoi Centre preserved a more than 140-year-old banyan tree on the historic Mint House site, and a former coin minting facility dating back to the French Indochina era, creating a unique architectural focal point within the project.

At the official opening ceremony of Hanoi Centre on July 2, Rajpal Singh, Singapore’s Ambassador to Vietnam, commended Keppel for bringing the expertise and operational capabilities demonstrated at Saigon Centre, one of the company’s flagships and most successful developments, to its latest retail project in Hanoi.

“Hanoi Centre is the latest example of Keppel’s increasing presence and investments in Vietnam,” Ambassador Singh said.

A vibrant residential community

Alongside Hanoi Centre, Keppel is further strengthening its presence in Hanoi through the Estiva Charm residential project, developed in partnership with Phu Long within the Mailand Hanoi City township.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of Estiva Charm on July 2, Nguyen Van Sinh, Vice Minister of Construction, stated that the groundbreaking was in line with the Party and state’s policy on urban development and the real estate market towards sustainability, synchronisation, and placing residents’ quality of life at the centre.

Sinh expressed hope that Estiva Charm would be implemented on schedule and to a high standard of quality, contributing to realising Hanoi’s vision for green, civilised, and sustainable urban development.

Meanwhile, Mailand Hanoi City is a nearly 300-hectare integrated township in western Hanoi, developed by Phu Long. The project is master-planned as a mixed-use urban development comprising residential, commercial, service, and community facilities.

Within Mailand Hanoi City, Keppel and Phu Long are jointly developing the more than 14ha Estiva residential development, with Estiva Charm representing its first phase.

The project also marks Keppel’s first residential development in Hanoi, expanding the company’s investment portfolio in the capital beyond commercial real estate while further strengthening its longstanding partnership with Phu Long following the success of CELESTA City in Ho Chi Minh City.

The first phase spans 2.86ha and comprises 109 dual-frontage shophouses complemented by more than 20 on-site amenities. Designed to foster a vibrant community, the development integrates residential living with commercial activities in a well-planned urban environment.

The partnership between Keppel and Phu Long reflects both companies’ long-term commitment to developing internationally benchmarked integrated urban communities, creating value for residents while contributing to the long-term development of Vietnam’s real estate market.

Beyond real estate

During recent engagements with Party General Secretary and State President To Lam, and Tran Duc Thang, Secretary of Hanoi Party Committee, Keppel reaffirmed the company’s longstanding commitment to Vietnam and confidence in the country’s continued growth.

According to Joseph Low, Keppel’s chief representative for Vietnam and president for Vietnam Real Estate, the company’s expanding investments in Hanoi reflect not only its confidence in the capital’s long-term growth potential but also its broader strategy for Vietnam.

Through the Keppel Vietnam Fund, the company is mobilising capital from global institutional investors to develop high-quality real estate projects across the country.

When fully leveraged and invested, the fund, including co-investment capital, will potentially have funds under management of approximately S$1 billion (around $773.6 million).

Beyond property investment, Keppel is expanding into businesses that complement its asset management strategy, including sustainable urban renewal, energy-as-a-service, clean energy, and digital connectivity infrastructure. These sectors are expected to offer significant growth opportunities as Vietnam accelerates its green and digital transformation.

According to Joseph Low, its real estate developments are incorporating energy efficiency, green building standards, and thoughtful designs that reduce environmental impact. “More broadly, Keppel is also bringing our infrastructure and energy transition expertise to Vietnam, helping businesses and cities manage the shift towards cleaner, more efficient energy systems. Vietnam has ambitious climate commitments, and we see a real opportunity to meaningfully contribute to this journey,” he said.

With 29 projects and over S$5 billion (around $3.86 billion) in registered investment capital in Vietnam, Keppel said it will continue expanding its footprint in the country. The company will focus on commercial real estate and the “affordable luxury” residential segment, while strengthening its presence in infrastructure, energy, and technology.

From a developer of landmark projects in Vietnam, Keppel continues to strengthen its position as a global asset manager and operator in the country. Its expanding presence in Hanoi, spanning Hanoi Centre, Estiva Charm, future developments in partnership with OSI Holdings, and initiatives in energy, digital infrastructure, and asset management, reflects the company’s strategy of building an integrated urban ecosystem that supports Vietnam’s development journey.

Vaniva is a new-generation solution and is the only product in Vietnam classified in the dual mode-of-action group, registered for the control of both nematodes and Fusarium. Photo: Syngenta Vietnam

Fusarium - a persistent, global threat

Fusarium spp.-induced yellowing and root rot are among the most difficult soil-borne diseases to manage across a wide range of crops. The fungus can persist in the soil for many years and often goes undetected until the root system has been severely damaged. By the time above-ground symptoms appear - such as yellowing leaves and widespread leaf drop - the disease is extremely difficult, and sometimes impossible, to control

Globally, a soil-borne fungal strain known as Fusarium Tropical Race 4 (TR4) - the cause of so-called "Panama disease" in bananas - is projected to affect up to 17 per cent of the world’s banana-growing area by 2040.

Without effective control, this could result in losses of approximately 36 million tonnes of bananas, representing more than $10 billion in losses to the global banana industry as a whole. FAO has also warned that the spread of TR4 could reduce global banana production by approximately 2 per cent by 2028 and affect around 240,000 jobs across the banana value chain.

In Vietnam, Fusarium spp. are also major pathogens responsible for yellowing and root rot in several economically important crops. According to studies by WASI and VAAS, the combined presence of Fusarium spp. and root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) is a major cause of reduced growth and yield in coffee plantations in the Central Highlands.

In durian, black pepper and citrus, Fusarium - together with other soil-borne fungi - often forms part of a disease complex that weakens plants and may ultimately cause plant death if an appropriate control strategy is not implemented from the outset.

Nguyen Hac Hien, director of the Dak Lak Sub-Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection, said, “Yellow-leaf root rot has become one of the most pressing challenges in the province’s key crop-growing areas, directly affecting yields, the productive lifespan of orchards and farmers’ incomes. One of the greatest difficulties is that the disease develops below ground; by the time visible symptoms appear, the root system has often already suffered severe damage."

"We therefore encourage farmers to take early preventive action, maintain soil health and adopt science-based integrated crop protection measures, while using crop protection products safely, effectively and strictly in accordance with label instructions. The availability of new solutions with advanced modes of action will provide valuable support for pest and disease management efforts across the province.”

Representatives of Syngenta Vietnam and WASI at the Vaniva® 450SC press conference. Photo: Syngenta Vietnam

Breakthrough solution from Syngenta

Powered by TYMIRIUM technology and featuring the active ingredient cyclobutrifluram, Vaniva 450SC provides effective control of plant-parasitic nematodes and key soil-borne diseases, particularly Fusarium spp., helping protect root systems and establish a strong foundation for healthy crop growth from the earliest stages.

Developed through more than 15 years of Syngenta research and innovation, TYMIRIUM technology is designed to address some of the most challenging below-ground pests and diseases while protecting soil and root health.

Vaniva is a new-generation solution and is currently the only product in Vietnam classified in the dual mode-of-action group, registered for the control of both nematodes and Fusarium.

By safeguarding root systems early in the crop cycle, Vaniva 450SC helps improve water and nutrient uptake, supports vigorous crop establishment, and enhances plant resilience under challenging growing conditions. Beyond delivering effective crop protection, TYMIRIUM technology reflects Syngenta's commitment to advancing sustainable and regenerative agriculture by developing innovative solutions that help farmers increase productivity while reducing environmental impact.

According to Syngenta, solutions powered by TYMIRIUM technology are being introduced across more than 100 crops in over 60 countries, demonstrating the company's continued commitment to innovation that enables farmers to produce more while caring for the health of their soils and the future of agriculture.

Syngenta Vietnam and WASI sign a cooperation agreement for a joint programme to develop and transfer crop protection solutions. Photo: Syngenta Vietnam

Safe for people and crops

Vaniva 450SC delivers superior efficacy at low active-ingredient rates - only 1/2 to 1/10 of some other solutions - meaning significantly less active ingredient enters the environment, reducing environmental impact and better protecting beneficial organisms. In the soil, the product does not affect earthworms or the beneficial microorganisms essential to soil fertility.

By conserving soil biodiversity and increasing root biomass, it supports soil health and a sustainable agricultural ecosystem - reflecting Syngenta's direction of developing solutions that protect soil health, support regenerative agriculture and reduce environmental impact.

The launch of Vaniva 450SC reflects Syngenta's long-term commitment, guided by its purpose of "Breakthroughs for farmers, in every field.”

What sets Syngenta apart is not only its innovative products, but also its integrated approach - combining world-leading research and innovation with close partnerships with farmers through technical knowledge transfer, safe crop protection stewardship training, field days, and on-farm demonstration trials conducted directly in farming communities.

Tran Thanh Vu, managing director of Syngenta Vietnam, said, “With Vaniva 450SC we complete a comprehensive root-protection solution for farmers - from nematodes to fungal disease, including Fusarium, for which no truly effective solution previously existed. This is the result of many years of research, and it reflects Syngenta's commitment: bringing the most advanced technologies, safer for people and the environment, to Vietnam's fields.”

ASEAN steps up digital push for agriculture MSMEs to boost competitiveness

USDA opens applications for agribusiness trade mission to Vietnam

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According to the announcement on August 7, the strategic expansion aims to bridge Vietnam’s rapidly maturing digital economy with broader ASEAN markets, targeting the growing wave of domestic enterprises seeking international scale. The Vietnam office will be led by Livio Grossi, who joins as chief creative officer and managing partner.

The agency’s entry coincides with a fundamental structural shift in Vietnam’s economy, transitioning from a consumption-heavy market to one driven by domestic wealth creation and regional capital investment. With a GDP growth rate reaching 8.18 per cent in the first half of 2026 (among the top in ASEAN) and a digital economy valued at over $39 billion in 2025, with the e-commerce sector valued at $25 billion, Vietnam is positioning itself as a dominant regional player.

Moonfolks wants to play the role of a catalyst in this transformation. Earlier this year, the Vietnamese government introduced the “Go Global” Programme (2026-2030), seeking to develop 1,000 globally capable enterprises.

According to the UOB Business Outlook Study 2026, over 80 per cent of Vietnamese businesses plan to expand internationally within the next two years, with ASEAN as the primary destination. This intent is backed by capital, as Vietnamese outbound investments surged 2.5 times in early 2026 alone.

“Vietnam’s economy has matured significantly over the last decade. With its strong digital adoption and highly capable workforce, the country has built a solid foundation for local businesses to compete on a regional scale," said Anish Daryani, founder and CEO of Moonfolks.

“As local brands look toward regional expansion, particularly into massive consumer markets like Indonesia, they require strategic frameworks that navigate complex cultural, regulatory, and digital moats. Our goal is to serve as the catalyst for that cross-border growth”.

To facilitate this cross-border expansion, Moonfolks is introducing its proprietary “Audacious Growth” model to the Vietnam market, leveraging its established network and experience across the region. While the framework provides comprehensive end-to-end capabilities – integrating branding, digital and social media, public relations, and shopper activations into a cohesive commerce engine – its ultimate goal is to help Vietnamese brands move beyond the "Made in Vietnam" cost advantages. Instead, the agency focuses on helping clients export intellectual property, design excellence, and compelling brand narratives.

Moonfolks is entering the Vietnamese market with an ecosystem approach and the objective of raising the bar for creativity in Vietnam, and contribute to the country’s creative economy. The agency has already established a collaborative network with communities, creators and industry partners like Rice Content, IDM, and Pmax, among others.

“Moonfolks wants to leverage our regional presence to provide accelerated growth to ambitious Vietnamese brands, in-market and beyond. Our proprietary Audacious Commerce model of combining content, creators, communities and culture to create commerce for brands will go a long way in redefining Vietnamese brands. We aim to do this by providing cultural fluency across markets, that will shape the commercial landscape of our region over the next decade," Daryani said.

German leading adtech firm adjoe expands to APAC region Hamburg-based adjoe, a global leader in mobile advertising, has announced its expansion into the APAC region, with new offices established in Singapore and Tokyo.

Moloco poised to redefine Vietnam’s digital advertising market Vietnam is now a key player in the global app economy, generating over 5.6 billion app downloads annually, ranking among the top three countries in the world. Paul D'Arcy, chief marketing officer of Moloco, spoke with VIR’s Thanh Van about the company’s journey to tap into this lucrative market by offering advanced marketing technologies.

SnP celebrates 10th anniversary with new brand identity SnP, a strategic agency partner to major domestic and international brands, celebrated its 10th anniversary on January 29.

Co‑financed by the EU and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, and jointly implemented by the Vietnam Forestry Administration (VNFOREST) and the German Development Agency (GIZ), the programme will contribute to sustainable and green growth, strengthening climate change mitigation and adaptation, safeguarding biodiversity, and advancing climate-sensitive forest-based value chains that ensure fair and inclusive participation of stakeholders across the Northwest and Central Highlands.

Implemented in Son La, Dien Bien, Quang Ngai, Gia Lai and Dak Lak provinces, the project will strengthen climate‑sensitive natural forest conservation, restoration and management, including digital biodiversity monitoring and community‑based protection.

In addition, it will boost environmentally sustainable, inclusive forest-based value chains that provide fair, gender‑balanced economic opportunities, and build capacities and support for regulatory frameworks to scale nature‑positive solutions nationwide.

This project, to which the EU contributes with €20 million, will complement the “Protection and management of protected areas with diverse eco-systems" project that started implementation early this year, with a €7.5 million contribution from Germany.

The launch of the Forestry Support Programme underlines the long‑term support of Team Europe to Vietnam’s green and climate‑resilient development. The event brought together around 110 representatives from national and provincial authorities, forest management authorities, development partners, research institutions, NGOs, INGOs, and forest management communities. Participants underlined a shared commitment among partners to advance sustainable forestry and climate adaptation in Vietnam.

Speaking at the event, Tran Quang Bao, director general of VNFOREST, said: "The programme underscores our shared commitment to protect Vietnam’s natural forests and drive sustainable, inclusive development. By strengthening the restoration of natural forests and promoting sustainable and climate-sensitive forest management and livelihoods, it supports Vietnam's forestry sector’s goals. We value our long‑standing partnership with the EU and Germany in advancing sustainable forestry."

Kristina Buende, head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Vietnam, said, “The country’s forests are vital for climate action, water and soil protection, and the livelihoods of 25 million people engaged in forest activities, while serving as major natural carbon sinks. And yet climate impact, forest degradation and biodiversity loss threaten these ecosystems. Through a Team Europe approach, encompassing the EU and EU member states, we stand with Vietnam to protect and restore forests for people, nature and a resilient, low‑carbon future.”

Michael Lehmann, deputy head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Germany, said, “The programme builds upon this global experience while responding to Vietnam's priorities and ambitions, emphasising locally owned, scientifically informed solutions through long-term partnerships. Over the next five years, we will work closely with local, provincial, and national partners to boost sustainable forest management. The results from these pilot projects can inform national policies and capacity building and support Vietnam’s commitment to reach Net Zero by 2050."

"Under the Team Europe approach and additional co-financing through the programme, Germany will further strengthen forest governance, enhance climate resilience and foster sustainable, inclusive forest‑based value chains. Building on Germany’s cooperation in Vietnam, this project advances climate‑sensitive, sustainable forest management by, among others, piloting innovations, using digital tools and building capacities to drive green growth and reduce climate vulnerability,” Lehmann said.

Vietnam forest protection initiative launched Vietnam’s Forestry Administration and German Development Agency, on February 6 held a kick-off meeting for the “Management and Protection of Protected Areas with Diverse Ecosystems in Vietnam” project.

Agro-forestry and fisheries exports jump nearly 30 per cent in January Vietnam’s agro-forestry and fisheries export turnover reached an estimated $6.51 billion in January 2026, up 29.5 per cent year-on-year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

Agro-forestry-fishery exports exceed $23 billion in first four months Vietnam’s agro-forestry-fishery exports reached more than $23 billion in the first four months of 2026, up 5.4 per cent on-year, with Asia remaining the largest export market.

Vietnam's agro-forestry-aquatic exports soar in first five months Vietnam’s agro-forestry-aquatic sector acquired $30.69 billion in the first five months, up 9.2 per cent on-year, maintaining positive growth momentum, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

IGEV chief on turning forestry waste into high-value exports Idemitsu Green Energy Vietnam's black pellet manufacturing plant has reached a major milestone with its first commercial shipment to Japan. Hiroto Ono, the firm's general director, discusses the project's development and the company's strategy to tap into rising demand for black pellets with VIR's Thanh Van.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister Nguyen Danh Huy stated that the Vietnamese government identifies modern and synchronised infrastructure as one of its strategic breakthroughs. Over the years, Vietnam has invested heavily in expressways, airports, seaports, and logistics infrastructure. In urban areas, Vietnam considers urban rail a strategic solution. This type of transportation can provide high-volume public transport services, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and support more sustainable growth.

Deputy Minister Nguyen Danh Huy. Photo: MoC

The deputy minister said Vietnam hopes to strengthen cooperation with Russia and international partners in research, technology transfer, digital transformation, green transport, human resource training, and investment attraction. Vietnam welcomes businesses, financial institutions, and investors to continue working with the country in building a modern transport system and sustainable cities. Vietnam aspires to remain a reliable investment destination and an active partner in sharing experience, developing technology, and building transport solutions tailored to each country's conditions.

During the event, the delegation from the Ministry of Construction (MoC) participated in thematic discussions on the development of urban railway systems, modern passenger transport services, and traffic navigation, and also joined technical surveys of several key transport infrastructure projects in Moscow.

The MoC delegation also held meetings with Russian State Secretary and Deputy Transport Minister Dmitry Zverev on transport cooperation.

In the aviation sector, both sides have promoted the connection of direct flights between the two countries based on the Aviation Agreement between Vietnam and the Russian Federation. To date, eight airlines, including two Vietnamese and six Russian airlines, operate Vietnam-Russia routes.

In the first six months of 2026, air transport between the two countries experienced impressive growth, reaching approximately 1.07 million passengers, a 32 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2025.

Photo: MoC

To further facilitate the opening of more flight destinations and increased flight frequencies, both sides agreed to promote exchanges, finalise negotiations, and proceed with the signing of a new agreement between the two governments and a new MoU between the civil aviation authorities of the two countries to create the most favourable conditions for the operations of airlines from both countries.

In the maritime sector, both sides highly appreciate the signing of the Protocol amending the 1993 Commercial Maritime Agreement in April 2026. To date, both sides have also completed the ratification procedures for the Protocol to enter into force.

Regarding railway cooperation, Vietnam and the Russia are active members of the Organisation for Cooperation between Railways. The two sides have reached many important agreements, such as increasing transport volume; establishing an inter-ministerial working group between Vietnam, China, and Russia; and maintaining the permanent cooperation mechanism between Vietnam Railways and Russian Railways.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to encourage the signing of an MoU on cooperation in training and developing human resources for transportation and a joint MoU on transportation in 2026, and to soon hold the second meeting of the Russia-Vietnam working group on cooperation in transportation and logistics.

Russia-Vietnam bilateral trade grows 6 per cent in 2025 Bilateral trade between Russia and Vietnam rose by 6 per cent in 2025, highlighting the continued growth of their economic partnership.

Delo Group, VIMC sign deal to develop Russia-Vietnam maritime transport Russia's Delo Group and Vietnam Maritime Corporation signed an MoU on the sidelines of the Vietnam-Russia Business Forum in Moscow on March 24.

Vietnam-Russia energy cooperation: a strategic pillar in global transition Amid a rapidly restructuring global economy shaped by geopolitical shifts, economic cooperation between Vietnam and Russia is entering a new phase with significant potential for both depth and scale.

AWE has an exciting line-up of events in the months ahead. Following the successful conclusion of the Kerry Fencing World Championships 2026 Hong Kong, China, more than 16 concerts are scheduled to take place in August and September. Together with international conventions, exhibitions and other large-scale events, these are expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors from Hong Kong, Mainland China and around the world.

The Ticket Stub Offer further leverages AWE's strength in bringing together world-class events and diverse visitor audiences. The first eligible event is the "The 16th Worldwide Chinese Life Insurance Congress & 2026 IDA Annual Conference", taking place at AWE over four consecutive days from 7 August. The event is expected to welcome more than 10,000 insurance professionals from around the world. Following a series of major concerts, the globally renowned "Jewellery & Gem WORLD" will be held from 14 to 18 September and is expected to attract more than 55,000 buyers from over 140 countries and regions.

Large-scale conventions and exhibitions typically run over several days, with exhibitors, buyers and delegates often extending their stay in Hong Kong. This generates economic benefits across a wide range of sectors, including hotels, food and beverage, retail, transport and tourism. By extending the Ticket Stub Offer to cover both the days before and after an event, AWE encourages business travellers to explore Hong Kong beyond their meeting, networking and sourcing itineraries, supporting the growth of bleisure travel.

The partnership also highlights AWE's strategic location adjacent to Hong Kong International Airport, enabling visitors to enjoy dining privileges conveniently throughout their journey, from arrival and event participation to departure, while delivering a seamless "Touring upon arrival; Mega events upon arrival" experience.

AWE is connected to the airport by a covered walkway, with the journey taking approximately 15 minutes on foot. Located in the public area of the Departures Hall in Terminal 1, Lin Heung Lau (HKIA) operates around the clock, making it particularly well suited to concertgoers as well as travellers departing on flights at different times of the day. Through this collaboration, AWE extends the economic impact of international events beyond the venue to the airport and neighbouring businesses, while giving overseas visitors the opportunity to experience Hong Kong's authentic Dim Sum dining culture.

Looking ahead, AWE will continue to strengthen partnerships with neighbouring businesses, the tourism sector and other stakeholders to explore more cross-sector collaborations. By connecting concerts, conventions, exhibitions, dining, retail and tourism experiences, AWE aims to encourage both leisure and business visitors to stay longer and further unlock the wider economic benefits generated by world-class events.

Download hi-res photo: https://www2.asiaworld-expo.com/2026/PressRelease/AWExLHL.zip

AsiaWorld-Expo x Lin Heung Lau (HKIA) - Ticket Stub Offer

Major Events at AWE in August and September

The investment aims to meet the growing demand for Automated Positioning Stages, key components used in the manufacturing equipment for optical transceiver modules supporting data centres, as generative AI continues to be adopted worldwide. MISUMI will also expand production capacity for components serving high-growth industries, including humanoid robotics.

According to the company, generative AI is accelerating global investment in data centre infrastructure by leading technology companies. As investment in data centres continues to expand, demand for optical component manufacturing equipment and high-precision mechanical parts is increasing accordingly.

At the same time, ongoing industrial automation and labour shortages in many countries are creating significant opportunities for the humanoid robotics industry, which is expected to become one of the key growth drivers of the manufacturing sector over the next decade.

To address these emerging market needs, MISUMI plans to expand its production capacity significantly to ensure a stable global supply for customers. Upon completion of the investment, the company's production capacity for Automated Positioning Stages is expected to increase to approximately three times the level of fiscal year 2025.

Notably, Vietnam has been selected as one of the key locations for this investment. The expansion not only strengthens MISUMI's global manufacturing network but also highlights Vietnam's increasingly important role in the high-tech industrial supply chain.

The rapid advancement of AI is reshaping the manufacturing industry. The company believes that investing in expanded production capacity will enable MISUMI to better meet customers' future needs while contributing to the sustainable development of the manufacturing industry.

In addition to expanding manufacturing capacity, MISUMI continues to advance its Digital MODEL Shift strategy to improve customer productivity. Since 2000, the company has been a pioneer in introducing online ordering platforms within the manufacturing industry. Today, its AI-powered meviy platform automatically generates quotations directly from 3D CAD data, significantly reducing the lead time from design to production while streamlining the procurement process.

According to MISUMI, the company's mission extends beyond supplying components. It aims to eliminate repetitive engineering and procurement tasks, enabling customers to focus more on innovation while improving productivity and overall competitiveness.

Vietnam and Aichi expand cooperation from manufacturing to innovation Vietnam is seeking to attract higher-quality Japanese investment and expand cooperation in innovation and startup ecosystems, Minister of Finance Ngo Van Tuan told Aichi Governor Hideaki Ohmura during talks in Hanoi.

Vietnam seeks Japanese expertise on financial reform On July 14, a delegation from Vietnam's Ministry of Finance, led by Deputy Minister Nguyen Duc Chi, held working sessions with Japan's Financial Services Agency and the Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission in Tokyo to exchange experience in capital market development, financial innovation and securities regulation.

Japanese investors see growing opportunities in Vietnam's startup ecosystem Japanese venture capital firms and investors are deepening their engagement with Vietnam's startup ecosystem. Miki Takahiro, director of the Japan External Trade Organization in Ho Chi Minh City spoke with VIR's Thanh Van about the latest investment trends and startup opportunities.

Previously Announced Recent Business Highlights

Business Development

• Successful demonstration of a high-power 9.5Ah pouch cell designed for industrial and military drone applications. The prototype delivered exceptional power stability, retaining approximately 95% of its capacity at a 10C discharge rate, a significant improvement over typical market pouch cells, which average 78% retention at 5C. Solidion expects to make the pouch cell commercially available in Q2 2026. Solidion is working toward commercial availability of the pouch cell and will provide updates as development progresses.

• The Company unveiled its new PEAK Series, an advanced UPS battery system engineered specifically for AI data centers, leveraging the Company's high-performance 5500 silicon-carbon anode cell. The system delivers up to 30% space savings, significantly lower total cost of ownership, and up to three times longer life than conventional backup solutions. Commercial availability is expected in 2026, with Solidion currently working with select data center partners on early integration and testing.

Technological Advancements, Business Development and Corporate Updates:

• $35 Million Private Placement (June 7, 2026): Solidion announced a securities purchase agreement with a new institutional investor for 750,000 shares of common stock and pre-funded warrants to purchase 1,583,000 shares in a private placement priced above market under Nasdaq rules, generating $35 million in gross proceeds and closing on June 9, 2026. Net proceeds are earmarked to accelerate commercialization of the Company's patented Extreme-Climate Battery technology, fulfill customer demand, expand inventory, advance prototype development, and support general working capital needs, with Titan Partners, a division of American Capital Partners, serving as sole placement agent.

• Gen-ECB / Space Battery Technology (June 4, 2026): Solidion unveiled its patented Generation Extreme-Climate Battery (Gen-ECB) platform, engineered to power satellites, LEO-based AI data centers, crewed spacecraft, and future lunar infrastructure as commercial space activity accelerates. The technology leverages graphene's thermal conductivity and radiation resistance to actively manage cell temperature, enabling reliable operation from −80°C to +60°C and demonstrating over 500 charge cycles at −40°C — a key durability benchmark for missions like NASA's Artemis program. Paired with the Company's silicon-rich solid-state, anode-less lithium metal, and lithium-sulfur chemistries (targeting 380+ Wh/kg), the platform positions Solidion — backed by its 385+ patent portfolio — to supply high-reliability, domestically sourced power storage for satellites, Starship operations, and lunar surface systems, diversifying its revenue opportunity alongside its existing EV and AI data center UPS markets.

• The Company previously announced that it has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with an entity that manufactures and distributes energy storage systems.

• The Company has been awarded a grant to advance research and development of Electrochemical Manufacturing of High-Performance Graphite Based on Biomass-Derived Carbon. This award is one of the projects funded by ARPA-E, the Advanced Research Projects Agency, from their highly competitive OPEN program.

• The Company has been awarded a grant to scale up the synthesis of a carbon-nanosphere material that will be used as an anti-corrosive additive in molten-salts-based heat transfer fluids for advanced molten salt nuclear reactors from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

• The Company has been awarded a grant to develop an advanced fiber-based electronic battery system built on a coaxial carbon nanotube (CNT) yarn architecture from the U.S. Department of War/Army STTR Program.

• Solidion Technology completed a major restructuring of its August 2024 equity financing, eliminating all Series C and D Pre-Funded Warrants, along with the corresponding derivative liability, significantly strengthening the balance sheet and reducing future dilution risk. Long-term investors Madison Bond LLC and Bayside Project LLC converted their entire warrant allocation into common stock, and agreed to lock-up restrictions on those shares, subject to certain exceptions, which supports shareholder alignment and Solidion's long-term growth strategy.

CEO Statement:

"Solidion's much improved balance sheet reflects the commitment of long term shareholders and reaffirms the strategy of building an organization that can compete revenue wise," said Jaymes Winters, Chief Executive Officer of Solidion Technology.

Q2 2026 Financial Highlights

• $27.7 million in cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2026, compared to $0.2 million at December 31, 2025. Following the completion of the private placement, the substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern previously disclosed has been alleviated.

• $124,914 in revenue from government grants and delivery of Solidion's proprietary silicon anode products.

• $1.4 million loss from continuing operations, reflecting decreased spending on professional services and other public company expenses.

• Net Loss of $2.9 million, or $0.35 per basic share, including a non-cash loss of $0.9 million related to change in fair value of derivatives.

See below for additional information on Solidion's operational results:

Summary of Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2026 and 2025

Net Sales

Net sales increased by $120,914 for the three months ended June 30, 2026, to $124,914, compared to $4,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025. The increase was primarily attributable to government grant revenue recognized during the period.

Operating Expenses

Operating expenses decreased by $296,546 for the three months ended June 30, 2026. This decrease was primarily driven by lower general and administrative costs, including reduced personnel and professional services expenses. Additionally, there were decreased research and development costs, including personnel expenses associated with the commercialization of our battery cell products and third-party validation testing of our proprietary silicon anode.

Other Income (Expense)

Other expense increased by $1,192,684 for the three months ended June 30, 2026. This increase was largely driven by a loss of $917,780 due to a change in the fair value of derivative liabilities related to the Forward Purchase Agreement and warrants related to the March private placement financing, compared to a loss of $216,150 in the three months ended June 30, 2025. Other expense for the quarter also included a $549,915 non-cash write-off of deferred offering costs associated with a registration statement the Company withdrew in June 2026, and interest expense of $153,597 primarily related to the Company's short-term notes.

About Solidion Technology, Inc.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas with pilot production facilities in Dayton, Ohio, Solidion's (NASDAQ: STI) core business includes manufacturing of battery materials and components, as well as development and production of next-generation batteries for energy storage systems, including UPS systems serving the artificial intelligence (AI) data center market and electric vehicles for ground, aerospace, and sea transportation. Solidion holds a portfolio of over 385 patents, covering innovations such as high-capacity, silane gas free and graphene-enabled silicon anodes, biomass-based graphite, advanced lithium-sulfur and lithium-metal technologies.

For more information, please visit www.solidiontech.com or contact Investor Relations.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Solidion Technology Inc., (NASDAQ: STI) (the "Company," "Solidion," "we," "our" or "us") desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words "forecasts" "believe," "may," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "should," "plan," "could," "target," "potential," "is likely," "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

The partnership brings together FC Bayern, record champions of German football with fans on every continent, and LONGi, the world's No.1 solar module manufacturer (Wood Mackenzie, 2026). It is also LONGi's second major move into global sport this year, following its partnership with the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026, and deepens a long-term commitment to the region at the heart of the global energy transition.

The partnership was launched on stage by Zhong Baoshen, Chairman and General Manager of LONGi; Rouven Kasper, Board Member for Marketing & Sales, FC Bayern; Charles Jiang, Vice President of LONGi, President of the PV Product Management Center; and FC Bayern legend Roy Makaay.

"POWER ON, GAME ON" is more than the slogan of a launch day. It gives the two partners a simple shared language: POWER ON carries LONGi's side, clean energy for power plants, businesses and homes; GAME ON carries FC Bayern's, the passion of the game and fans across the world. Going forward, "POWER ON, GAME ON" will serve as the unifying message across the partnership's joint campaigns, content and fan engagement, a shared expression of what LONGi and FC Bayern set out to achieve together.

The world's No.1 solar module maker meets football's record champions

Founded in 1900, FC Bayern has grown into one of the most successful and widely followed clubs in world football, defined by its "Mia san Mia" identity and a standard of performance sustained across more than a century. Founded in 2000, LONGi has spent more than 26 years holding solar technology to the same standard. Its crystalline silicon-perovskite tandem solar cell holds the world record for conversion efficiency at 35.5%, and it has retained PV Tech's highest "AAA" bankability rating for 26 consecutive quarters.

The partnership pairs that record of technology leadership with a sport built on emotion, loyalty and everyday relevance. Solar advances through lab results and decimal points; football lives in rituals, rivalries and weekend afternoons. Where the two meet, LONGi's engineering finds a place in daily life, and the game finds a partner building the future its fans will live in.

Behind the theme stands the full breadth of LONGi's business, with solutions spanning utility-scale power plants, commercial and industrial projects, and residential systems. Energy reaches people wherever they live and work, much as football reaches fans wherever they are. That connection to people is what LONGi's mission and FC Bayern's spirit have in common, and what this partnership is built on.

"FC Bayern and LONGi come from different worlds, but we are driven by the same instinct: keep improving, keep challenging ourselves, and never treat one achievement as the end. Football connects millions of people, and energy touches every one of them."_said Zhong Baoshen, Chairman and General Manager of LONGi.

"FC Bayern is synonymous with excellence on the pitch. Alongside LONGi, we're united by a shared drive for excellence and a genuine commitment to building a more sustainable future. We look forward to partnering with this global industry leader to keep renewable energy firmly in the spotlight."_said Rouven Kasper, Board Member for Marketing & Sales, FC Bayern.

That drive runs through everything LONGi makes.

From world records to everyday products

LONGi's portfolio spans the full range of solar applications, from utility-scale power plants to businesses and homes. Every product is held to the standard that set those records, engineered to be dependable in everyday use.

"Every LONGi product starts from the same question: how to turn the best solar technology into something customers can rely on every day. That discipline runs through the whole portfolio, from the modules powering the world's largest solar plants to EcoLife, our home energy series. Products are where our technology keeps its promises."_said Charles Jiang, Vice President of LONGi, President of the PV Product Management Center.

Beyond performance and products, the two are united by a commitment to sustainability.

From "Mia san Mia" to "Solar for Solar"

Through its "Solar for Solar" concept, LONGi is advancing toward net-zero emissions by 2050 and accelerating the clean energy transition. FC Bayern, through its "Mitnand" strategy, integrates environmental and social responsibility across the club. The partners will explore opportunities to bring LONGi's solar solutions into the club's own sustainability efforts, with potential applications across training facilities and stadium infrastructure.

Details of joint initiatives and fan-facing activities will be announced in due course.

From the dosing of the first participant in the RAG-17 Phase II trial on January 13, 2026, to the completion of enrollment and first dosing of all participants today, this rapid progression across all five sites underscores both the strength of physician and patient engagement in the SOD1-ALS community and the operational execution of Ractigen's clinical team. With all participants now having received their initial dose, the study advances into the critical evaluation period, during which safety, biomarker, and functional data will continue to accumulate ahead of key regulatory interactions.

RAG-17 is developed using Ractigen's proprietary SCAD™ (Smart Chemistry-Aided Delivery) platform, with positive First-in-Human (FIH) Phase 1 clinical data recently published in Nature Medicine.

"Completing enrollment and first-dose administration in our Phase II MAD trial marks a pivotal achievement for Ractigen as we advance RAG-17 along a defined, accelerated regulatory pathway," said Long-Cheng Li, M.D., Founder and CEO of Ractigen Therapeutics. "Building upon robust Phase I SAD data that demonstrated remarkable CSF SOD1 protein suppression and plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL) reduction, this milestone brings us one step closer to delivering a transformative therapy to SOD1-ALS patients. We remain fully focused on executing our clinical strategy and engaging with regulatory authorities to accelerate the development of this meaningful treatment."

RAG-17 Phase II

This Phase II trial (NCT06556394) is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple ascending dose (MAD) study designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and preliminary efficacy of repeated intrathecal injections of RAG-17 in patients with SOD1 mutations. The participating sites include Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University (led by Dr. Yi-Long Wang), The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (led by Dr. Zhi-Ying Wu), West China Hospital of Sichuan University (led by Dr. Hui-Fang Shang), Fujian Medical University Union Hospital (led by Dr. Zhan-Yu Zou) and the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University (led by Dr. Jing-Sheng Zeng).

RAG-17

RAG-17 is an investigational siRNA therapeutic candidate designed using Ractigen's proprietary SCAD™ delivery platform technology to specifically target and silence the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene mRNA. Mutations in the SOD1 gene cause a toxic gain-of-function and are a known cause of familial ALS. By reducing the production of the toxic mutant SOD1 protein, RAG-17 aims to slow or halt the progression of SOD1-ALS.

RAG-17 has obtained Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and been selected for the CARE Program of the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE), National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), which facilitates the accelerated development of rare disease therapies.

For more information, visit www.ractigen.com

CLASSYS continues to recruit and develop world-class talent while bolstering its capabilities across technology, business and global operations to support its global expansion. The appointment of Dr. Taek-Soo Kim as CTO reflects the company's commitment to strengthening its global technology leadership and preparing for its next phase of growth.

Last month, CLASSYS launched its "Next Stage" growth strategy with the appointment of Jun-oh Yoon, former Executive Vice President of Samsung Electronics, as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With Dr. Kim joining to execute that strategy within the R&D organization, the company plans to accelerate technological innovation and the development of next-generation products centered on AI, software, and data.

Dr. Kim plans to combine CLASSYS's established energy-based device (EBD) technologies with its extensive clinical and procedural data, applying AI to drive development of next-generation products designed to reshape the market. In particular, he will systematically incorporate feedback from clinicians and key opinion leaders (KOLs) across major global markets into the R&D process. This approach will enhance treatment efficacy, usability, safety, and the overall user experience, enabling CLASSYS to lead the global market with differentiated medical aesthetics technologies and solutions that meet market and customer expectations.

Furthermore, Dr. Kim's track record of leading large-scale R&D transformation initiatives at leading global technology organizations is expected to accelerate the implementation of CEO Yoon's global-standard management systems across the R&D organization. Through rigorous risk management and agile execution, CLASSYS will continue building a more agile and efficient R&D culture.

A CLASSYS spokesperson said, "While CEO Jun-oh Yoon combined an engineer's deep technical expertise with a strategist's global perspective to help drive Samsung's growth, CTO Taek-Soo Kim helped lead R&D transformation and technology innovation at Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology (SAIT), the company's premier advanced research organization. Together, their strengths are expected to help CLASSYS redefine the global medical aesthetics industry and establish itself as a top-tier global company."

View Full Article: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/classys-appoints-former-samsung-electronics-and-vuno-executive-dr-taek-soo-kim-as-chief-technology-officer-accelerating-its-evolution-into-a-global-medical-aesthetics-technology-company-302844406.html

Unikeyic Electronics Ranked No. 19 on Supply Chain Connect’s 2026 Top 50 Global Electronics Distributors List

For us, this is more than a ranking. It is a strong signal that the capabilities we continue to build for engineers, purchasers, and manufacturers around the world are creating real value in a fast-changing supply environment.

The full ranking was published by Supply Chain Connect on May 15 2026. See: https://www.supplychainconnect.com/rankings-research/article/55376775/2026-top-50-global-electronics-distributors-list . Supply Chain Connect is a publication of Endeavor Business Media covering the global electronics supply chain.

As a Singapore-headquartered electronic components online distributor, Unikeyic serves global engineering and procurement teams through unikeyic.com. We effectively support high-mix, low-volume sourcing requirements. Our core capabilities include:

• Scale & Breadth: Offering 300,000+ SKUs and working directly with 200+ authorized brands.
• Uncompromising Quality: Our in-house testing laboratory is CNAS-accredited and ILAC MRA-recognized, with test reports recognized in 100+ economies, helping customers source authentic, quality-assured components with confidence.
• Agile Fulfillment: Providing same-business-day dispatch for in-stock items, helping customers shorten lead times and reduce supply risks.
• Digital Integration: Offering BOM tools, RFQ support, and enterprise API integration for real-time inventory access, pricing visibility, and seamless ERP connectivity.

Unikeyic is backed by a listed parent company with more than 20 years of supply chain infrastructure, giving us a strong foundation in procurement reliability, transaction security, and operational stability. Today, we serve customers across 100+ countries and regions, offering flexible payment options and dedicated support to R&D teams and manufacturers worldwide.

We would like to thank our customers, suppliers, and partners for the trust and support they have shown us over the past year. This recognition would not have been possible without your continued collaboration.

Looking ahead, we will keep investing in inventory depth, brand coverage, quality assurance, digital procurement capabilities, and global service efficiency. Entering the global top 20 is an important milestone, but more importantly, it strengthens our commitment to helping customers source with greater speed, confidence, and flexibility.

More Stock. More Brands. Trusted by More. That's the Unikeyic standard.

Commencing operations in 2023, Attovia develops next‑generation biotherapeutics for immune‑mediated diseases with high unmet medical needs. All of Attovia's product candidates are discovered on its ATTOBODY biologics platform, which is licensed under an exclusive worldwide license from Alamar Biosciences, also a portfolio company of Qiming Venture Partners. Leveraging an evolution‑based high‑throughput workflow, the platform enables rapid discovery of highly diverse candidates that can be assembled into monospecific, bispecific and trispecific biologics.

Leveraging the ATTOBODY platform, Attovia has nominated three product candidates: ATTO‑1310, ATTO‑2306 and ATTO‑1091. As disclosed in the prospectus, proceeds from this IPO will mainly be used to advance the clinical development of ATTO‑1310, ATTO‑2306 and the research pipeline including ATTO‑1091, among other purposes.

Dr. Kan Chen, Partner and Healthcare Co-Lead at Qiming Venture Partners, commented: "Immune‑mediated diseases affect large patient populations worldwide and substantial unmet clinical needs persist with current standard‑of‑care therapies. Attovia's differentiated ATTOBODY platform, in‑licensed from Alamar Biosciences, provides a powerful engine for engineering complex multi‑specific biologics. Qiming Venture Partners maintains a long‑term focus on investing in pioneering‑innovation biotech companies. We backed Attovia at its early stage and witnessed the team advance platform technology into clinical‑stage assets. Proceeds from this Nasdaq IPO will strongly support further advancement of its core pipeline. We look forward to Attovia delivering novel therapeutics to benefit patients globally."

Qiming Venture Partners

Qiming Venture Partners was founded in 2006. Currently, Qiming Venture Partners manages eleven US Dollar funds and seven RMB funds with $9.5 billion in capital raised. Since our establishment, we have invested in outstanding companies in the Technology and Healthcare industries at the early and growth stages.

Since our debut, we have backed over 580 fast-growing and innovative companies. Over 210 of our portfolio companies have achieved exits through IPOs at the NYSE, NASDAQ, HKEX, Shanghai Stock Exchange, or Shenzhen Stock Exchange, or through M&A or other means. There are also over 80 portfolio companies that have achieved unicorn or super unicorn status.

Many of our portfolio companies are today's most influential firms in their respective sectors, including Xiaomi, Meituan, Bilibili, Zhihu, Roborock, Hesai Technology, UBTech, WeRide, HyperStrong, Insta360, Unisound, Biren Technology, Z.ai, Gan & Lee Pharmaceuticals, Tigermed, Zai Lab, CanSino Biologics, Schrödinger, APT Medical, Sanyou Medical, AmoyDx, SinocellTech, Insilico Medicine, AusperBio, Yuanxin Technology, Medilink Therapeutics, LaNova Medicines, StepFun, among many others.

The three-year private placement note was issued on July 15, 2026, with a coupon rate of 2.50% per annum. The offering was oversubscribed by Chinese onshore and international investors with a book coverage ratio of 2.3 times.

The transaction is a significant milestone for Seaspan as the first international ship owner and operator to successfully access the Panda Bond market.

Beyond establishing a new funding channel, the transaction supports Seaspan's strategy to diversify its sources of capital and broaden its access to unsecured debt, strengthening the company's ability to invest in its fleet, pursue growth opportunities, and create long-term value for customers and stakeholders.

"The issuance demonstrates the confidence that investors have in Seaspan's credit quality, business model, strong financial profile, and sustainable growth strategy," said Andreas Brauch, Chief Financial Officer. "Expanding our access to China's domestic capital markets further diversifies our funding sources and improves our access to cost-efficient capital, enhancing our long-term growth objectives to support our customers with one of the world's largest and most modern fleets."

The Panda Bond issuance marks an important highpoint in Seaspan's participation in Chinese capital markets, where the company has strategic partnerships across the maritime ecosystem, including chartering, shipbuilding, financing, and maritime services.

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

A Growing Secondary Market and the Case for Regulated Dealers

The Bloomberg Subdial Watch Index, which tracks the 50 most-traded references by transaction value, recorded its best half-year performance since early 2022 in the first half of 2025, reflecting a broader shift in buyer preference towards the secondary channel.

The growth of the pre-owned segment has been driven by a combination of factors, including tighter supply of popular references at authorised dealers, record gold prices lifting new watch retail costs, and a shift among buyers towards immediate availability and market-reflective pricing.

Founded in 2020, Times Avenue has grown alongside this trend, transacting more than 3,000 authenticated timepieces from its Beach Road boutique over its first five years of operation. The boutique's inventory is weighted towards luxury Swiss timepieces including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Tudor and Cartier, with a focus on sought-after references that are typically subject to long waiting lists in the primary market.

At the same time, authentication and fraud risks in the secondary channel have drawn public attention, including the recent prosecution of an Italian national who attempted to trade a "fake" Rolex GMT Saru at a Singapore retailer. Both developments underline the importance of sourcing from licensed, regulated dealers.

Licensed secondhand goods dealers like Times Avenue operate under frameworks that impose customer due diligence, transaction reporting, record-keeping, and stock movement obligations. Exempted by the Singapore Police Force and a fully regulated dealer under the Ministry of Law, Times Avenue ensures that every watch sold undergoes rigorous in-house authentication before it reaches the client, and each piece is covered by an in-house warranty, giving buyers assurance of authenticity for every transaction.

Times Avenue also offers in-person buying from the public, trade-ins, consignment, and authentication, alongside retail, covering both the acquisition and resale ends of the secondary market.

Clients and prospective buyers can view current inventory, arrange private viewings, or request a sourcing consultation at https://horologymaison.com/contact-us/.

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

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

“Its rapid industrialisation, growing manufacturing capabilities, and investment in high-value industries make it one of the most exciting growth markets in Asia-Pacific,” Lee said.

LAPP Vietnam launched on August 6 in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: LAPP

"As Vietnam moves towards more advanced manufacturing, greater automation, and sustainable industrial development, reliable connectivity becomes increasingly important. Behind every automated production line, every robotic system, and every piece of critical equipment is dependable connection technology. That is where LAPP brings value, delivering the German-engineered reliability needed to power the region's next wave of sustainable growth," Lee added.

Although he did not directly answer whether LAPP plans to establish a manufacturing facility in Vietnam, he said any such decision would ultimately depend on the market's long-term growth potential.

"Vietnam is home to more than 400 industrial parks nationwide. Assuming each industrial park accommodates around 100 factories, there are roughly 40,000 manufacturing facilities currently in operation. When evaluating an investment opportunity, we look beyond market size. We closely monitor the number of active customers, the frequency of repeat purchases, and the long-term growth prospects of key industrial sectors," he said.

According to Danny Lai, managing director of LAPP Asia-Pacific, Vietnam has been one of the company's fastest-growing markets in the region over the past five years. "Sustained double-digit growth, coupled with rising foreign investment, has made Vietnam a strategic market for us," Lai said.

He added that another key advantage is that many of LAPP's customers from Europe, Japan, South Korea, and China are investing in or expanding their manufacturing operations in Vietnam.

"Through our global presence, we can support customers seamlessly across multiple markets, enabling them to maintain consistent technical standards when implementing projects in Vietnam," he said.

Looking ahead, LAPP plans to further expand its presence in Vietnam's key industrial hubs.

"Bac Ninh is a particularly important market due to its high concentration of manufacturing facilities and foreign-invested enterprises. Central Vietnam is also an area of strategic interest as we pursue our next phase of expansion," Lai said.

LAPP currently operates six manufacturing facilities across Asia, producing a wide range of products. In addition to industrial cables, the company manufactures connectivity components such as industrial connectors, USB connectors, plugs, and integrated connectivity solutions for customers in the manufacturing, industrial automation, and high-tech sectors.

Globally, LAPP is focusing on several high-growth industries with strong demand for advanced connectivity solutions, including semiconductors and high-tech electronics, data centres, intralogistics (smart warehousing), and the automotive industry.

JJ-LAPP was an equal-share joint venture originally founded in 2004 with Jebsen & Jessen Group. Following its acquisition of JJ-LAPP in 2025, the German family-owned company is now bringing its regional operations under the unified LAPP brand.

The acquisition comes at a time when Vietnam is seeing significant investment in AI-driven data centres, automated manufacturing facilities, and renewable energy infrastructure. These developments are creating growing demand for specialised cable and connection solutions that can support high-performance applications while withstanding the region’s challenging tropical environments.

Asia-Pacific is already LAPP’s fastest growing region, with a strong double-digit growth rate in fiscal year 2025. To drive this growth, LAPP will leverage Indonesia as a core regional manufacturing hub to shorten lead times, alongside Vietnam as a key commercial hub.

Thai Stark Corporation PCL swallows Vietnamese cable manufacturers for $240 million Stark Corporation PCL of Thailand has completed the purchase of 100 per cent equity in Thinh Phat Cables JSC (Thipha) and Dong Viet Non-Ferrous & Plastic JSC for $240 million.

The 2026 Sustainable Development Dialogue took place on August 6 at Nestlé Vietnam's Bong Sen Factory in Hung Yen province, discussing how stronger collaboration between enterprises, local governments, and the state can accelerate Vietnam's transition towards a greener, more resilient economy.

Nguyen Quang Vinh, vice chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said 2026 marks a turning point in the country's development journey.

"In the past, discussions on sustainable development often began with environmental protection, social responsibility, or corporate governance. Today, the more important question is how sustainable development can become an integral part of competitiveness and a new engine of growth," he said.

"Sustainability is no longer solely the responsibility of ESG or sustainability departments. It has become a shared agenda for business leaders, investors, employees, supply chains, local governments and the entire economy," he added.

He noted that global uncertainties have made resilience an essential business capability. Companies today must manage costs and markets alongside their ability to withstand disruptions. Meanwhile, the green transition has evolved beyond an environmental programme into a competition for technology, capital, energy, markets, and production capabilities.

Vinh said Vietnam is entering a new development phase with increasingly coherent policy directions. Recent major policy resolutions collectively promote growth driven by science, technology and innovation, improve the quality of investment attraction, and encourage a greener, smarter and more resilient growth model.

He called on businesses to lead innovation, digital and green transformation, responsible investment and workforce development. Local governments, he said, should create transparent, efficient and predictable investment environments while strengthening infrastructure, talent and innovation ecosystems. At the national level, continued institutional reforms, fair competition and more effective resource allocation will be critical to enhancing Vietnam's competitiveness.

"If these four forces move in the same direction, I believe rapid growth and sustainable development will not conflict with each other. They can become two complementary pillars of Vietnam's new development model," he said.

Photo: Quoc Tuan

Nguyen Hoa Cuong, vice president of the Institute of Policy and Strategy Studies, cited the UOB Business Outlook 2025 survey, which found that 90 per cent of Vietnamese businesses recognise the importance of sustainable development, while 75 per cent have already begun implementing sustainability initiatives.

He said integrating sustainability into product development, supply chain management and customer engagement can create long-term strategic advantages. "Sustainability reporting is no longer just a communications document – it is a management tool. Environmental, social, and governance standards are not the final destination but the starting point of a data-driven governance model," Cuong said.

To maximise the value of sustainability reporting, he recommended that businesses integrate reporting into their governance systems rather than treating it as a standalone exercise, build reliable datasets, particularly emissions data, and use those data to support strategic decision-making instead of simply meeting disclosure requirements.

Photo: Nestlé

Nestlé Vietnam's Bong Sen Factory manager Dau Van Hoan shared how the company is combining digital transformation with sustainability, shifting from smart factory operations to broader local development.

According to Hoan, the factory is pursuing Nestlé's vision of becoming a globally connected company with strong local roots through three strategic pillars: digital transformation and consumer-focused operations, sustainable development, and innovation centred on people.

The factory has adopted advanced technologies including AI-powered quality inspection systems, real-time data monitoring and automated process controls to improve efficiency and minimise waste. Between 2018 and 2025, these initiatives reduced paper consumption by 80 per cent, increased labour productivity per hour by 52 per cent, saved 11,800 gigajoules of energy and conserved 38,700 cubic metres of water.

Automation has also expanded through the deployment of robots for spare-parts delivery and cleaning, smart ventilation systems, automated sampling, 3D printing, CNC machining, automated warehouses and robotic palletising systems.

As a result, the factory has generated 3,000 hours for continuous improvement activities, achieved annual savings of VND22 billion ($850,000), added 6,000 pallet storage positions and shortened spare-parts procurement time from seven days to just eight hours, while improving employee engagement.

Hoan stressed that sustainable growth begins with investing in people. "Technology does not replace people; it empowers people, many factory operators have developed into multi-skilled specialists, technical experts and managers within Nestlé's global network."

The company has also partnered with Hung Yen University of Technology and Education to develop a workforce equipped for digital transformation.

Drawing from the factory's experience, Nestlé identified four key lessons: digital transformation is the foundation rather than the destination; digitalisation accelerates the green transition; people must lead technology adoption; and sustainable value is created by extending innovation to local communities.

"Technology can be acquired, but an empowered digital mindset with human-centric creates lasting value," Hoan said.

Photo: Nestlé

Binu Jacob, CEO of Nestlé Vietnam and co-chair of the Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development, said Bong Sen Factory demonstrates how digital and green transformation can be implemented simultaneously with people at the centre.

"Bong Sen is more than a factory. It is one of Nestlé's most modern, technology-driven sites, a place where digital and green transformation come to life every single day. When we talk about 'human-centric dual transformation', this is where those words become machines, processes, and most importantly - people," he said.

Jacob believes Nestlé deliberately chose Hung Yen for its investment because of the province's remarkable improvements in the business environment. Between 2020 and 2024, Hung Yen's Provincial Competitiveness Index ranking rose from 53rd place to the country's top 10, reflecting strong cooperation between local authorities and businesses.

"Nestlé's investment in Hung Yen demonstrates the value that can be created when businesses and local governments build trust and grow together," he added.

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