EUPD Research is one of the most credible third-party research and certification bodies in the global photovoltaic and energy storage sector, with a research network spanning Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Launched to honor manufacturers that have made outstanding progress in driving energy transition and sustained innovation, the Top Innovation Award commends exceptional technical strength and breakthrough innovative achievements, and serves as a core benchmark for measuring the technological innovation excellence of new energy enterprises.

The award-winning 4S grid-forming energy storage technology, fully developed in-house by DoGo Power, is a key technical system built for new power systems. It deeply integrates four core components: the Energy Management System (EMS), Power Management System (PMS), Power Conversion System (PCS) and Battery Management System (BMS). By simulating the operating characteristics of synchronous generators through algorithms, the technology can independently establish grid voltage and frequency references, effectively addressing grid stability challenges brought by high-penetration renewable energy integration. Meanwhile, supported by AI-powered multi-source collaborative scheduling algorithms, it realizes adaptive optimization across PV-storage-diesel-grid operating scenarios and cost-efficient grid-tied and off-grid operation, strengthening grid support capacity while ensuring the economic efficiency of system operation.

Against the backdrop of accelerating global energy transition and faster construction of new power systems, DoGo Power will continue to deepen its focus on the smart grid-forming energy storage technology track. The company will drive industrial upgrading through technological innovation, work with global partners to advance the low-carbon transition of the energy mix, and fulfill its corporate mission of "Lighting Up the World".

Designed to address the unique challenges associated with sacral wound management, the dressing incorporates several features aimed at supporting both home-based and professional care settings, including long-term bed rest, pressure injury management, and post-operative recovery.

A key feature of the dressing is its 23% wider absorbent tail core, developed to better conform to sacral contours. The expanded coverage enhances fit and stability, helping reduce lifting or shifting during movement while providing reliable protection in challenging wound care areas.

The product also incorporates a pre-cut design that helps the dressing adapt more naturally to body contours. By improving flexibility and reducing tension around movement-prone areas, the design contributes to greater comfort during extended wear.

Consumer reviews highlight these benefits in real-world use. Following hip replacement surgery, one customer reported that the dressing remained secure in a constantly flexing area and "have not lost contact nor come off unless I wanted them to," adding that there was "No PAIN removing them either." The reviewer particularly recommended it for "odd locations needing flexibility."

Another distinguishing feature is the dressing's SAP absorbent core, which can absorb more than 20 times its own weight in exudate. The high-capacity absorption helps maintain a dry wound environment while reducing leakage risks and the need for frequent dressing changes.

Additional customer feedback highlights the dressing's protection and absorbency. One burn-care user described it as a "very high-quality product" that provided "wonderful protection" and was "as good as you would get at a doctor's office." Another customer recovering from stitches noted that it "kept the area clean while it healed," absorbed fluids well, and protected the wound while showering.

The product's strong sales performance and positive customer feedback highlight Dimora Medical's growing presence in the U.S. wound care market and rising demand for high-performance, user-friendly wound management solutions. Looking ahead, Dimora Medical remains focused on clinical care needs and user experience, refining product designs to support reliable care across home and professional settings.

For more information, please visit: https://dimoramedical.com/.

According to the report, global commercial cleaning robot shipments exceeded 50,000 units in 2025, with revenue surpassing $400 million. Pudu Robotics led the market across both key indicators, reflecting its technology capabilities, global deployment experience and growing recognition among commercial customers.

Global Market Leadership Validated by Industry Research

Counterpoint Research notes that the commercial cleaning robot market is entering a rapid-growth phase, with leading vendors beginning to build scale advantages. Pudu Robotics ranked first globally in both shipments and revenue, becoming the only company to lead across the two core market metrics.

This position reflects Pudu Robotics' long-term focus on commercial cleaning. Its cleaning robots have been deployed across large commercial complexes, office buildings, retail chains, convenience stores and industrial warehousing environments. Customers include global brands such as Walmart, Edeka and Denner, with adoption across major overseas markets including Europe, North America, Japan and South Korea.

Pudu Robotics' leadership has also been recognized by Frost & Sullivan, whose previous industry report ranked Pudu Robotics first in the commercial cleaning robot sector with approximately 29% global market revenue share.

The Counterpoint Research report was released one day after Pudu Robotics introduced PUDU ET1, an AI-native compact scrubber-dryer robot.

Designed for small commercial spaces of 100 to 800 square meters, ET1 brings fully automated, high-standard cleaning to environments such as convenience stores, pharmacies, chain restaurants and economy hotels. With a compact body and an 8-in-1 workstation, ET1 integrates sweeping, scrubbing, vacuuming and dust-mopping capabilities, while supporting automatic dust collection and 85℃ hot-water floor scrubbing. The launch further strengthens Pudu Robotics' cleaning robot portfolio for smaller, space-constrained commercial scenarios.

AI-Native Cleaning Moves Beyond Rule-Based Automation

Counterpoint Research highlights that large AI models, 3D perception and visual intelligence are pushing the industry from automation toward AI-Native Cleaning 2.0. Traditional cleaning robots often rely on preset routes and rule-based execution. AI-native cleaning robots can perceive real-world environments, make decisions and adjust cleaning actions based on changing conditions, moving from passive task execution toward autonomous, adaptive cleaning.

Pudu Robotics' Magic Cleaning AI Agent system reflects this shift. By integrating perception, decision-making and execution, the system creates an intelligent closed loop covering environmental perception, analysis, route planning, cleaning execution and continuous optimization. Supported by 360-degree VSLAM positioning and navigation technology, Pudu's cleaning robots can identify different types of debris, stains and floor materials, understand complex commercial environments and dynamically plan cleaning routes.

The robots can also generate cleaning heat maps, identify frequently soiled areas and perform targeted inspections, intelligent spot cleaning and zone-based deep cleaning, enabling a more proactive model of smart cleaning.

Counterpoint Research notes that AI-native vendors such as Pudu Robotics are redefining the underlying technology logic of commercial cleaning robots. Compared with traditional cleaning equipment companies that often rely on third-party intelligence platforms, AI-native robotics companies with full-stack in-house capabilities across algorithms, hardware and scenario adaptation are emerging as key drivers of industry growth.

Strong Growth Potential Through 2030

Counterpoint Research estimates that global commercial cleaning robot penetration remains below 10%, while global demand for commercial cleaning services is expected to reach $50 billion in 2026. By 2030, annual global shipments of commercial cleaning robots are projected to exceed 400,000 units, representing a compound annual growth rate of more than 50%.

As labor costs rise and cleaning service providers face persistent hiring challenges, intelligent automation is becoming an increasingly important part of commercial facility operations. Pudu Robotics is addressing this demand through a full-scenario product portfolio that spans the PUDU CC1 series, MT1 series, BG1 series, PUDU SH1 and the newly launched PUDU ET1, covering cleaning needs from small storefronts to large commercial and industrial spaces.

Guided by its "One brain, Multiple forms" technology strategy, Pudu Robotics is building a comprehensive service robotics portfolio across service delivery, commercial cleaning, industrial delivery and general embodied AI. In commercial cleaning, the company will continue to deepen its presence in real-world scenarios, advance AI-native robot intelligence and deliver adaptable, full-scenario solutions for customers worldwide.

The partnership embeds OpenAI frontier models like GPT-5.6 and products like Codex and ChatGPT Work into IBM Consulting Advantage, IBM's AI platform for delivering consulting services to clients, combining AI agents, industry assets, and cybersecurity capabilities to help organizations securely deploy AI at scale, drive business outcomes, and create new commercial models.

IBM will bring forward-deployed units of highly specialized engineers and consultants trained through the OpenAI Partner Network to work directly with clients to accelerate AI implementation across complex business workflows and highly regulated environments. IBM will also launch a dedicated OpenAI Practice, with thousands of consultants and engineers obtaining expert-level certifications under the OpenAI Partner Network.

Together, IBM and OpenAI aim to help organizations tackle one of the biggest barriers to scaling AI – turning decades of fragmented processes, legacy systems, and operational complexity into AI-driven operations that can be deployed even more safely and securely.

The partnership will focus on three key areas:

• Transforming legacy operations into AI-ready workflows
  IBM will embed OpenAI frontier models like GPT-5.6 and products like Codex and ChatGPT Work into IBM Consulting Advantage, to help organizations integrate AI into daily processes with business context and redesign workflows across finance, procurement, customer operations, and HR. The capabilities within IBM Consulting Advantage can analyze operating procedures and workflows to identify inefficiencies and help teams automate and streamline work using AI.
• Application modernization and product development
  The companies plan to help clients modernize legacy applications and accelerate software development by bringing together OpenAI Codex and ChatGPT Work with IBM's industry, technology and domain expertise, including integration with IBM Consulting Advantage. The collaboration is designed to help organizations simplify engineering processes and speed the delivery of new digital products and services.
• Cybersecurity and AI risk management
  IBM and OpenAI will expand their collaboration on cybersecurity following IBM's participation in the OpenAI Daybreak Cyber Partner Program by combining OpenAI frontier AI capabilities with IBM Autonomous Security — a multi-agent-powered service designed to deliver coordinated decision-making, response, and intelligence at machine speed. As AI-powered attacks grow more sophisticated, the partnership will help clients manage both cyber and AI model risk, including application-layer vulnerabilities, governance gaps, and operational risks that limits AI adoption.

"While enterprises are rapidly investing in AI, they are looking for practical ways to apply it across their core operations to deliver measurable business outcomes and create new commercial models," said Andy Baldwin, Global Senior Vice President, IBM Consulting. "The challenge is not access to AI technologies — it's integrating AI securely and at scale into complex enterprise environments and workflows. By embedding OpenAI's technology with IBM Consulting's AI assets, industry solutions, and cybersecurity capabilities, we can help clients accelerate secure, AI deployments at scale."

"The organizations pulling ahead with AI are the ones turning it into a trusted part of how their business operates," said Denise Dresser, Chief Revenue Officer at OpenAI. "IBM Consulting and OpenAI are helping organizations make that shift, combining deep transformation expertise to deploy AI that is secure, operational, and aligned with real business priorities."

As part of the collaboration, IBM will join OpenAI's Elite partner tier, reflecting the companies' shared focus on delivering secure, enterprise-ready AI at scale.

Statements regarding IBM's and OpenAI's future direction and intent are subject to change or withdrawal without notice, and represent goals and objectives only.

This acquisition marks a key milestone in IASO Bio's globalization strategy. By integrating MediSix's differentiated T-cell engineering platform, R&D pipeline, and international talent team with IASO Bio's cell therapy, manufacturing and commercialization capabilities, IASO Bio will further strengthen its global R&D and operational systems and accelerate the international development and commercialization of innovative cell therapy products.

Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Singapore, MediSix Therapeutics was established based on the research work of Professor Dario Campana, an internationally renowned translational immunology expert of the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore and a pioneer of 4-1BB (CD137) co-stimulatory domain CAR technology. MediSix has been backed by international institutional investors including ClavystBio, Lightstone Ventures, Osage University Partners, and EDBI (investment platform of Economic Development Board of Singapore and Enterprise Singapore, under SG Growth Capital). With their support, MediSix has built a robust R&D infrastructure, talent network, and international collaboration system.

MediSix's core technology focuses on addressing key challenges in cell therapy for T-cell malignancies. Its proprietary PEBL (Protein Expression Blocker) platform can specifically block the expression of target proteins on cell surfaces, effectively reducing fratricide among CAR-T cells. This enables targeting of antigens shared between T cells and target cells, and by combining ex vivo and in vivo CAR-T approaches, has established exclusive technological barriers and advantages for treating hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, and other diseases.

MediSix has also developed a differentiated pipeline addressing multiple unmet clinical needs. Its lead programme, IASO107 (formerly PCART7), is undergoing clinical evaluation in collaboration with leading international recognized research hospitals, and early clinical experience has shown promising efficacy and safety signals.

Zhang Jinhua, Founder, Chairwoman and CEO of IASO Bio, stated: "This acquisition represents a major milestone in the company's globalization strategy. MediSix has an outstanding scientific team and a differentiated PEBL technology platform with unique advantages in T-cell malignancies and AML that strongly complement IASO Bio's existing pipeline. Following this acquisition, MediSix will continue to develop follow-on products leveraging its unique platform, while harnessing IASO Bio's cost advantages and execution efficiency in CMC and clinical development to accelerate its international development. Furthermore, the addition of MediSix's international team will significantly enhance the company's R&D capabilities, talent attraction, and global collaboration network in the cell therapy field. We believe that through deep synergies between the two teams, we will accelerate the development of innovative cell therapy products and bring breakthrough therapies to more patients worldwide."

Mike Carusi, Chairman of MediSix and Managing Partner of Lightstone Ventures, stated: "On behalf of MediSix and its investors, we are delighted to see MediSix join forces with IASO Bio. IASO Bio brings a proven full-process platform, deep CMC and clinical development expertise, and a demonstrated track record of advancing a CAR-T therapy from the laboratory to commercial approval — a strong complement to MediSix's PEBL platform and T-cell engineering strengths. On this foundation, we expect MediSix's clinical programmes to accelerate, with the combined capabilities of both companies offering significant value over the long term."

KHOO Shih, CEO of ClavystBio, stated: "We see the strengths of MediSix and IASO Bio as highly complementary, with strong cross-border synergies, and believe the combined company can bring innovative cell therapies to patients around the world faster and at a greater scale."

Copper foil is a key material and component used extensively in batteries, copper clad laminate (CCL) and PCB applications. The company was the world's largest supplier of lithium-ion battery ("LiB") copper foil in terms of sales volume in 2025. As a leader in the global electrolytic copper foil market, Londian Wason has established a high-quality and diversified global customer base, serving top global manufacturers for batteries, CCL and PCB. Including LG Energy Solution, CATL, SK On, Samsung SDI, ATL, and Panasonic Industrial Materials.

Londian Wason is a manufacturer with a full-stack product coverage to different applications, including ultra-thin battery copper foil and PCB foil ranging from HTE to HVLP specifications.

Londian Wason is the only copper foil manufacturer in the world that chose to go public in the US.

WANG Guanran, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Londian Wason: "As an industry leader, we have consistently driven the evolution of products and solutions in the copper foil industry. With the successful IPO, we look forward to continuing to advance our strategy to scale-up our key product range with our ultra-thin and high tensile performance battery foil product ranges, as well as our VLP, RTF and HVLP copper foil solutions for high-end CCL and PCB customers."

"Our listing on the NYSE is a key milestone for us. We are also extremely proud to have the ability to present ourselves to the market, a global industry leader that has its origins from China, working with strong South Korean and Japanese shareholders and clients, and launching ourselves to the global capital markets space."

Harvest Global Capital Investments Limited, Hithium Global Pte. Ltd., are cornerstone investors in Londian Wason's IPO. The net proceeds from this IPO will be primarily used for investing in global production expansion and upgrades, research and development of advanced technologies, efficient manufacturing processes, broader product portfolios and applications, and general corporate purposes.

For the three months ended March 31, 2026, the Company recorded total revenue of RMB 4.07 billion (equivalent to US$582.4 million), representing a year-over-year surge of approximately 113.71%. The Company also swung from a net loss in the corresponding period of last year to a net profit of RMB 134.5 million (US$19.2 million) during the reporting quarter, marking a notable turnaround in profitability.

Allianz has been insuring electric vehicles since 2021, when it launched Allianz Electric Motor Protect — a motor insurance plan purpose-built for electric vehicle (EV) owners. Since then, EV policy volumes have tripled year-on-year as more drivers choose coverage designed around how they actually drive.

That early commitment to electric mobility led to a natural next step. In 2025, Allianz became the insurer of Singapore's first fully driverless autonomous vehicle, and has since provided coverage for the country's first autonomous public ride service. From EVs to autonomous vehicles — Allianz is insuring the future of how Singapore moves.

The same instinct — to protect Singaporeans against emerging risks — applies to the digital world.

Protecting Singaporeans Against Digital Fraud

Scam losses in Singapore reached S$913.1 million in 2025. Allianz Cyber Protect, launched through Allianz's bancassurance partner, was built to close that gap. The plan reimburses financial losses from phishing, smishing, and transactions made through stolen credentials or misuse of payment methods — with coverage of up to S$60,000 per year. It also includes Shopping Protection for online purchases that are undelivered, defective, or incorrect.

Recognising that all Singaporeans deserve access to this protection, Allianz developed Allianz Scam Protect — available at www.allianz.sg and through its distribution channels — offering similar comprehensive coverage, made more readily accessible to everyone.

The Leadership Behind It All

Raissi's Outstanding Leader award ties the story together. Under his leadership, Allianz Insurance Singapore has grown and diversified its portfolio to motor, commercial lines, and personal lines with a focus on innovation and emerging risks. He has done so by consistently leading his team in building solutions for emerging risks before they become mainstream.

"Our job is to stay ahead of the risks Singaporeans face — whether that's on the road, online, or in a driverless vehicle," said Hicham Raissi, CEO of Allianz Insurance Singapore. "These awards belong to the entire Allianz team — and there's more to come."

https://www.allianz.sg/

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

• Chubb Every Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan ("Chubb Every Care"): Designed for healthy individuals, with coverage for 146 illnesses and up to 800% protection².
• Chubb Cancer / Cardio / Diabetes Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan ("Chubb Cancer/ Cardio/ Diabetes Care"): Designed for cancer survivors, individuals with cardiovascular disease and those with well-controlled diabetes respectively with a simplified underwriting approach, offering up to 300% protection³ for up to 128 illnesses⁴.

• Flexible payout options: Offers a standby cash option for an additional 100% of the sum assured, or an ongoing protection option for continuing coverage up to 5 additional claims under Chubb Every Care.
• Reimbursement for out-of-pocket items⁶: Covers eligible self-financed drugs and/or privately purchased medical items⁷ for cancer, heart attack⁷, and stroke⁷.
• Post-recovery & advanced care⁶: Delivers extra 20% of the Sum Assured for appearance restoration and side-effects resulting from cancer and its treatments, plus an additional 20% of the Sum Assured if a condition progresses to advanced stage cancer, severe heart attack⁷ or severe stroke⁷.

1. The SIP Health Cost Index Global Ranking – 2025: https://www.sip.ch/service/sip-health-cost-index-2025/
2. Assume that payout for Minor Illness Benefit has reached 90% of the Sum Assured; Protection Revival Benefit and Extra Coverage Benefit have been paid with the Major Illness Benefit; Ongoing Protection Option was selected for the payment of Major Illness Benefit; Multiple Protection Major Illness Benefit has been paid five times; and the Out-of-Pocket Items Benefit, Appearance Care Benefit, and Embrace Life Benefit have all been paid out at respective maximum benefit payable.
3. Assume that payout for Minor Illness Benefit has reached 90% of the Sum Assured; Protection Revival Benefit has been paid with the Major Illness Benefit; Multiple Protection Major Illness Benefit has been paid; and the Out-of-Pocket Items Benefit, Appearance Care Benefit, and Embrace Life Benefit have all been paid out at respective maximum benefit payable.
4. Chubb Cardio Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan provides coverage for 43 Minor Illnesses and Major Illnesses, while Chubb Cancer / Diabetes Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan provides coverage for 128 Minor Illnesses and Major Illnesses.
5. It is based on a comparison with other participating critical illness protection plans offered by Composite and Long-Term Businesses as identified in the Register of Authorized Insurers by Insurance Authority as of 22 May 2026.
6. Upon our assessment that all relevant reports have been submitted to our satisfaction, the Out-of-Pocket Items Benefit, Appearance Care Benefit, Embrace Life Benefit and Multiple Protection Major Illness Benefit respectively will be unlocked from the corresponding Policy Anniversary. Please refer to the product brochure of respective insurance plan for details.
7. Subject to the terms and conditions. It is not applicable to Chubb Cardio Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan. Please refer to the product brochure of respective insurance plan for details.
8. Please refer to the "Chubb Care Critical Illness Series – Value-added Services Leaflet" for details and the applicable terms and conditions of the related services.

• Product Nature: Critical illness protection insurance series (with savings element)
• Target Segments:
• Chubb Every Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan ("Chubb Every Care"): Healthy individuals
• Chubb Cancer / Cardio / Diabetes Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan ("Chubb Cancer/ Cardio/ Diabetes Care"): Customers with medical histories (i.e. cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes histories)
• Four plan options under the series:

1. Assume that payout for Minor Illness Benefit has reached 90% of the Sum Assured; Protection Revival Benefit and Extra Coverage Benefit have been paid with the Major Illness Benefit; Ongoing Protection Option was selected for the payment of Major Illness Benefit; Multiple Protection Major Illness Benefit has been paid five times; and the Out-of-Pocket Items Benefit, Appearance Care Benefit, and Embrace Life Benefit have all been paid out at respective maximum benefit payable.
2. It is based on a comparison with other participating critical illness protection plans offered by Composite and Long-Term Businesses as identified in the Register of Authorized Insurers by Insurance Authority as of 22 May 2026.
3. Assume that payout for Minor Illness Benefit has reached 90% of the Sum Assured; Protection Revival Benefit has been paid with the Major Illness Benefit; Multiple Protection Major Illness Benefit has been paid; and the Out-of-Pocket Items Benefit, Appearance Care Benefit, and Embrace Life Benefit have all been paid out at respective maximum benefit payable.
4. Chubb Cardio Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan provides coverage for 43 Minor Illnesses and Major Illnesses, while Chubb Cancer / Diabetes Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan provides coverage for 128 Minor Illnesses and Major Illnesses.
5. Subject to the provisions of Coverage Unlock Privilege.
6. For Chubb Cancer Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan, this is subject to Cancer Lien. Please refer to the product brochure of respective insurance plan for details.
7. Subject to the terms and conditions. It is not applicable to Chubb Cardio Care Critical Illness Insurance Plan. Please refer to the product brochure of respective insurance plan for details.
8. For the avoidance of doubt, Coverage Unlock Privilege and any unlocked benefits are subject to the terms and conditions of the Policy, including provisions relating to lapse and reinstatement.

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

Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com.

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

As one of the world's largest professional accounting bodies, CPA Australia has today submitted to the government a comprehensive series of policy recommendations under the following themes:

1. Strengthening Hong Kong's position as a leading international financial centre
2. Developing the Northern Metropolis as a key engine of economic growth and innovation
3. Reinforcing Hong Kong's role as an international trade hub
4. Establishing leadership in sustainable finance and transition finance
5. Building a future-ready workforce and innovation-driven economy

Macro vision and strategic positioning

Cyrus Cheung, President of CPA Australia Greater China Division, emphasised the importance of long-term planning to support Hong Kong's future competitiveness; "Hong Kong is entering an important period of economic development. The formulation of Hong Kong's first Five-Year Plan alongside China's 15^th Five-Year Plan and the 2026 Policy Address provides an opportunity to leverage the city's unique strengths, support innovation and sustainable investment, and strengthen its long-term competitiveness."

Cheung said Hong Kong should build on its role as a "super-connector" and "super-value-adder" by broadening its strategic focus beyond traditional trade and financial flows. "We recommend positioning Hong Kong as a comprehensive capital markets hub encompassing commodities, precious metals, carbon products, digital assets and RMB-denominated products. Given its strong financial, regulatory and legal foundations, Hong Kong should set a long-term ambition to become Asia's leading centre for gold trading, clearing, settlement, financing and risk management."

He added that Hong Kong is well placed to play a larger role in supporting the international expansion of Chinese enterprises.

CPA Australia's recent research on Chinese enterprises going global found that over 3,000 A-share listed companies generated RMB 4.90 trillion in overseas revenue in the first half of 2025 alone. As Chinese enterprises continue to expand into ASEAN, the Middle East, Africa and other international markets, Hong Kong should position itself as the leading provider of professional services to support their global growth.

Enhancing Hong Kong's capital market ecosystem

Kelvin Leung, Deputy President of CPA Australia's Greater China Division, highlighted key priorities for enhancing Hong Kong's capital market ecosystem; "Hong Kong's long-term success will depend on its ability to evolve beyond a traditional IPO fundraising centre into a comprehensive capital formation centre, positioning the city's financial sector at the heart of international capital flows between entrepreneurs, investors, institutions and global markets."

Leung said this evolution should be supported by the continued development of areas such as digital finance, asset tokenisation, offshore RMB business, wealth management and family offices. "To support Hong Kong's long-term development, the government should leverage the Hong Kong Investment Corporation (HKIC) to catalyse private sector investment in strategic industries. To further strengthen the economy, we encourage the government to develop a Capital Formation Strategy in close collaboration with Mainland regulators."

Leung added that maintaining Hong Kong's tax competitiveness will be critical to preserving its status as a leading international financial centre. "We suggest a comprehensive review of Hong Kong's tax system, potentially structured as a series of interconnected reviews covering key sectors including family offices, funds, corporate treasury centres, insurance, and private credit. Led by the Advisory Committee on Tax Policy, these reviews should focus on reducing administrative burdens, assessing substance requirements and safeguarding the city's international investment appeal."

Accelerating Northern Metropolis growth and technology commercialisation

Dr Albert Wong, a divisional councillor on CPA Australia's Greater China Division, outlined a potential roadmap to support Hong Kong's technological transformation: "The Northern Metropolis should be positioned as an internationally connected engine of growth and innovation, serving as a strategic platform bringing together world-class universities, research institutions, multinational corporations, investors and technology enterprises to accelerate the development and commercialisation of new technologies."

Dr Wong said stronger support is needed to help innovative ideas move more efficiently from research laboratories to commercial markets. "To strengthen Hong Kong's innovation ecosystem, we recommend establishing a 'Government-as-First-Customer' procurement program to support local tech firms. We also recommend leveraging the HKIC as an anchor investor, where appropriate, to help attract private capital into locally developed technologies, alongside the creation of a University Commercialisation Acceleration Fund, to expedite the translation of research into commercial outcomes."

He added that Hong Kong should further strengthen support for business adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. "To align with the national 'AI+' initiative and enhance business competitiveness, Hong Kong should expand support for AI adoption through measures such as an AI Adoption Support Scheme for SMEs and a Cross-Border Data Exchange Sandbox with the GBA.

Dr Wong emphasised that realising the full benefits of AI requires significant investment in education, workforce development and talent attraction. "Capturing the opportunities presented by AI requires a fundamental transformation in education and workforce skills. Hong Kong should aim for higher levels of digital literacy, critical thinking, communication and human-AI collaboration across all levels of education and training,"

Leadership in sustainable and transition finance

Highlighting long-term economic resilience and sustainable growth, Mr Cyrus Cheung added that said Hong Kong is well positioned to play a leading role in financing Asia's transition to a lower-carbon economy. "Building on its strengths as a leading centre of finance and professional services, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to become Asia's leading centre for financing the transition to low emissions technologies and serve as a bridge between the Chinese Mainland's carbon markets and international investors. The Five-Year Plan should include a clear ambition to develop a comprehensive ecosystem for sustainable finance, transition finance, carbon trading, climate-related reporting, assurance and advisory services."

Cheung said Hong Kong has a unique opportunity to leverage its access to both Mainland and international capital to support the region's decarbonisation efforts. "By adopting international sustainability standards and leveraging its access to Mainland and global capital, Hong Kong can play a leading role in mobilising investment for Asia's decarbonisation transition. The Northern Metropolis should also be positioned as a demonstration zone for sustainable urban development and green infrastructure."

CPA Australia believes that aligning near-term policy initiatives with a clear five-year strategic framework will help Hong Kong strengthen its competitiveness and accelerate its development into a more diversified, innovative and resilient economy.

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

More at cpaaustralia.com.au

Photo: NIC

The forum focused on cooperation areas that can quickly move beyond resource connections towards research, testing, training, and the implementation of specific technology projects.

Hoang Trung Hieu, deputy director of the National Innovation Centre (NIC), said the centre has worked closely with Japanese partners, research institutes, and universities.

Cooperation has expanded across semiconductors, startups, innovation, and investment connectivity. Semiconductor cooperation in particular is becoming more targeted, with the participation of METI, the ASEAN-Japan Economic and Industrial Cooperation Committee, the Embassy of Japan, and the Japanese business community.

"NIC will continue expanding its network into energy, finance, robotic,s and other strategic technologies, while bringing more Japanese partners into Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem," Hieu said.

As part of this cooperation, the Vietnam-Japan Innovation Hub is expected to be launched at NIC Hoa Lac campus under a project supported by the Japanese government and implemented in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

“We expect this to become a platform for substantive Vietnam-Japan technology cooperation, where businesses, research institutes, universities and experts from both countries can jointly conduct research, testing and training, support incubation and connect investment, thereby developing concrete research and development programmes and technology projects,” Hieu said.

NIC will continue working with Vietnamese government agencies, organisations, research institutes, universities, businesses and Japanese investors to connect resources and generate new value, he added.

“NIC also hopes to continue receiving the attention, support and partnership of the Japanese government and the Embassy of Japan in Vietnam so that more practical and meaningful cooperation programmes and projects can be implemented at NIC, turning cooperation commitments into concrete, long-term and far-reaching results,” Hieu said.

Vietnam-Japan Innovation Forum. Photo: NIC

Ramla Khalidi, UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam, said that to sustain high economic growth, innovation needs to remain a strong priority. She called on startups, researchers, investors and businesses to make effective use of available infrastructure while investing in suitable personnel to strengthen Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem and deepen cooperation with Japan.

According to a representative of the Mitsubishi Research Institute, the development of the Vietnam-Japan Innovation Hub and UAV Lab at HHTIP involves connecting partners with needs, testing technologies in real-world environments, and scaling solutions that demonstrate their effectiveness.

The approach positions HHTIP as a test bed and co-creation space, where businesses, startups, universities and international partners can jointly develop and validate technologies before moving towards commercialisation.

NIC has signed MoUs with four partners. Photo: NIC

The forum also reached agreement on plans to establish a Vietnam-Japan working group on semiconductor human resources development, with NIC serving as the national focal point and the participation of four major technology universities: Hanoi University of Science and Technology, VNU University of Engineering and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, and the University of Science and Technology at the University of Danang.

The working group will assess semiconductor workforce supply and demand, connect businesses’ skills needs with universities’ training and research capacity, and promote joint programmes for semiconductor talent development and connectivity between Vietnam and Japan.

August also marks the first anniversary of the establishment and operation of Vietnamese innovation and expert networks in strategic technology fields, including UAVs, quantum technology, and cybersecurity. The networks have brought together experts, scientists, and businesses from Vietnam and abroad, creating platforms to connect knowledge and resources for technology development.

JBIC pledges to advance $20 billion investment in Vietnam The Japan Bank for International Cooperation has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing 15 projects worth around $20 billion in Vietnam while expanding investment into strategic sectors including energy, semiconductors, AI and data centres.

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.

Vietnam’s GDP growth accelerated to 8.5 per cent on-year in the second quarter, from 7.9 per cent in Q1. The stronger-than-expected performance prompted Citi to raise its full-year forecast back to around 8 per cent, after previously lowering it to the 7 per cent range following an energy-price shock in March.

Minh Ngo, Citi Vietnam’s country officer and banking head for Vietnam. Photo: Citi

In light of the report, Vietnam’s export performance has remained more resilient than initially anticipated. The United States accounts for approximately 30 per cent of Vietnam’s exports, with electronics playing an increasingly important role amid strong global investment in AI and digital infrastructure.

Although growth in exports to the United States has moderated from its 2025 peak, it remains elevated.

Two-way trade with China has also strengthened. Vietnam’s exports of electronics and components to China have accelerated, while imports of electronic inputs, energy and chemical products from China have increased, reflecting the country’s deeper integration into regional manufacturing and electronics supply chains.

Domestic demand has helped cushion the external and energy-related headwinds. Real retail sales weakened in early Q2 as fuel prices rose, but recovered relatively quickly as prices stabilised. Public infrastructure investment has continued at a high level, while production of construction materials maintained double-digit growth despite some moderation from Q1. .

Inflationary pressure remains a key concern. Vietnam’s consumer price inflation stood at 4.7 per cent on-year in June. Citi believes inflation has probably passed its peak following the decline in oil prices and government measures to stabilise domestic fuel costs, although it may remain above the 4.5 per cent target in the near term.

Minh Ngo, Citi Vietnam’s country officer and banking head for Vietnam, said Vietnam continues to demonstrate impressive resilience in a volatile global environment.

"Its expanding trade relationships, deeper participation in global supply chains and sustained investment in infrastructure provide a strong foundation for long-term growth," Ngo said. “Through Citi’s global network and local capabilities, we remain committed to helping clients navigate changing market conditions, access international capital and capture new cross-border opportunities.”

Key downside risks to Vietnam’s economic outlook include renewed energy-price volatility, weaker global demand, changing international trade conditions, and possible disruption to hydropower generation associated with El Niño.

Nevertheless, Citi expects exports, investment and domestic demand to continue supporting Vietnam’s economic growth through the remainder of 2026.

Citi Vietnam named Best Sustainable Bank by FinanceAsia Citi Vietnam has been named Best Sustainable Bank in Vietnam at the FinanceAsia Awards 2026, reinforcing the bank’s role in supporting clients and the country’s long-term sustainable development agenda. The award ceremony took place in Hong Kong on June 25.

Citi Vietnam marks Global Community Day 2026 in Phu Tho and Lam Dong Citi Vietnam marked Global Community Day 2026 with two meaningful community initiatives aimed at supporting local schools and creating better learning environments for children in Phu Tho and Lam Dong provinces.

Citi Vietnam hosts AI Day to equip staff with digital skills Citi Vietnam has hosted an AI Day to equip employees with practical skills for working in an increasingly AI-enabled environment.

Citi: Vietnam’s economy remains resilient in 2026 Vietnam’s economy is expected to maintain solid momentum in the second half of 2026, according to Citi economists.

The company was founded in 2020 in Hanoi by Duong Thi Hong Nhung, alongside Do Ngoc Tuan and Ho Hai Phong.

N2TP focuses on scientific research and building an intellectual property portfolio in strategic technology fields such as AI infrastructure, biomedicine and biotechnology. Its core technology is the AI4Science platform, built with the goal of supporting the speed-up of individual research stages, directly participating in the discovery, validation, and development of new scientific knowledge under human oversight.

Beyond shortening timelines, AI4Science also carries out the steps that follow after a new hypothesis has been validated through simulation: designing experiments, carrying them out and taking measurements, and collecting new data.

The value of the technology has already been proven. In the past 12 months, it has achieved 12 research papers accepted, presented, or published at leading global research conferences and forums, together with three scientific papers published in Q1 journals.

At the same time, N2TP has seven patent applications filed in Vietnam or internationally in the fields of foundational AI, biomedicine, and biotechnology.

This pace is at least four times faster than N2TP’s own results under a traditional research model. These figures reflect research productivity, research and development (R&D) organisational capability, and the effort to convert knowledge into protectable assets or applicable products.

Nhung, the CEO of N2TP, said the funds raised are expected to be prioritised for two groups of activities: selectively developing the patent portfolio in strategic technology fields such as AI infrastructure, biomedicine and biotechnology; and progressively completing the research loop and increasing integration with automated laboratory processes and equipment.

“Scientists are still the ones who ask the questions, set the standards, and bear responsibility for important decisions. What N2TP aims to build is infrastructure that more tightly connects hypothesis, reasoning, simulation, and experimentation, thereby helping research teams focus on directions with a stronger basis and convert suitable results into technology, products, or intellectual property assets.” said Nhung.

For Touchstone Partners, partnering with N2TP continues the direction the fund has pursued since its founding in 2021: seeking out and investing in AI and deep tech teams in Vietnam.

From its early days, Touchstone has backed notable AI and deep tech names such as Alpha Asimov, Eureka Robotics, Forte, and Prep. The fund's portfolio spans multiple sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, and education, as well as climate tech projects through the Net Zero Challenge initiative.

Applying AI to bioscience is an especially difficult but high-potential problem. N2TP's progress in gradually solving this problem reflects the founding team's strong R&D capabilities, and reinforces Touchstone's confidence in technologies that create real value for society.

This deal also reflects Touchstone's desire to support Vietnamese startups building technological self-reliance. Rather than settling for surface-level applications, Touchstone looks for teams capable of creating foundational IP. By combining practical medical and pharmaceutical knowledge with computational capability, N2TP is building a platform to support rigorous research. Early results, from publications in reputable international journals to patent applications, show that with the right AI tools, domestic research teams are fully capable of developing highly competitive technologies.

Ngo Thuy Ngoc Tu, director of Touchstone Partners, said, "N2TP shows that Vietnamese researchers are fully capable of building core technology that meets international standards, even in as demanding a field as biomedicine. We believe that AI infrastructure for scientific research will be a critical piece of Vietnam's technological development in the years ahead."

Bundle secures $5.5 million to back its launch in Vietnam, Singapore and Philippines UAE-based rewards startup Bundle announced on July 30 that it had raised $5.5 million in a pre-seed funding round to support its expansion into Vietnam, Singapore, and the Philippines.

New programme addresses changing startup landscape A new startup incubation programme will select up to 10 startups from at least 100 applications, with three advancing to testbed and fundraising stages.

Beanstalk AgTech launches Monsoon Ventures for Southeast Asian agtech push Beanstalk AgTech has launched Monsoon Ventures, a new venture studio targeting Vietnam and five other Southeast Asian markets to commercialise agtech solutions.

With more than 20 years of experience in the financial services and insurance industry, Claudia brings extensive expertise across finance, strategic planning, risk management, mergers and acquisitions, investor relations and auditing. Her career spans both the public and private sectors, including experience at the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and senior leadership roles within the insurance industry.

During her tenure at Etiqa, Claudia has helped build on the company's strong momentum by supporting its growth agenda while advancing new initiatives. Her collaborative leadership approach and focus on long-term value creation have contributed to strengthening Etiqa's capabilities for the future. She has also been an advocate for transforming the finance function from a traditional support role into a strategic business partner that helps create stronger outcomes for customers, employees and stakeholders.

"We are delighted to formally appoint Claudia Soh as CEO of Etiqa Insurance Singapore," said Kamaludin, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etiqa Insurance and Takaful. "Claudia has demonstrated strong leadership, strategic clarity, operational excellence and resilience. Her ability to drive innovation, build strong teams and adapt to changing customer needs will continue to strengthen our market position in Singapore to deliver long-tern value for our customers, employees and stakeholders"

On her appointment, Claudia said, "I am honoured to undertake the role of CEO at Etiqa Insurance Singapore at a time of significant change for our industry. As customer expectations continue to evolve, we must remain agile, innovative and focused on delivering purposeful value. By combining digital innovation, data-driven insights and strong partnerships, we will continue to enhance the customer experience and help more individuals and businesses build financial confidence and resilience."

Deepening Partnerships and Empowering Financial Readiness

As a leading composite insurer, Etiqa Insurance Singapore will continue to deepen its distribution capabilities and ecosystem partnerships to make protection more accessible and relevant to customers. Beyond its longstanding bancassurance partnership, Etiqa will work closely with Maybank to deliver more integrated financial and protection solutions, leveraging the strength of the Maybank network and customer ecosystem. Etiqa will also continue collaborating with partners across Singapore to develop innovative solutions that support customers' evolving protection, savings and financial wellness needs.

https://www.etiqa.com.sg/

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

The collection comprises three gift sets: The Enchanted Peony, The Petals of Grace, and The Moonbloom Reverie, conveying heartfelt wishes for peace and enduring joy.

In the rich depth of Eastern culture, the word for osmanthus - ‘Quế’ - shares a homophonous resonance with ‘Quý’ - representing nobility and splendour. This elegant blossom glows with even greater brilliance when paired with the peony, the emblem of grandeur and prosperity, together painting a picture of harmonious autumn reunion.

The magnificent moonlit garden is exquisitely re-created through every intricate box design, seamlessly bridging traditional heritage with contemporary flair, highlighted by graceful gilded lines and time-honoured lacquer craftsmanship.

The serenity of early autumn finds its form in the delicate artistry adorning the Enchanted Peony box - where the full moon shines gently beyond the window, embracing the regal splendour of the peony and the elegant osmanthus branch. Featuring four refined mooncake flavours, this is a heartfelt blessing for an auspicious beginning and abundant good fortune.

Continuing this autumnal journey, the warmth of the moonlit evening deepens in The Petals of Grace. Inspired by a treasure chest preserving the essence of autumn, the gift set showcases golden osmanthus blossoms delicately set against a royal emerald backdrop. Complemented by an elegant handle, it gracefully houses eight signature mooncake flavours, symbolising prosperity and enduring success.

The final strokes of this autumnal tableau find perfect harmony in The Moonbloom Reverie. Framed by a regal emerald lacquer backdrop, delicate osmanthus branches gracefully encircle The Reverie Saigon's engraved logo at the centre of the lid.

The gift box presents a selection of six distinctive mooncake flavours, paired with premium tea, to honour the refined Vietnamese tradition of gathering under the full moon. It embodies heartfelt wishes for a harmonious reunion and a prosperous future.

Beyond its refined presentation, The Moonlit Blossoms collection reflects The Reverie Saigon's dedication to craftsmanship in every mooncake. Time-honoured recipes are paired with contemporary flavours, from beloved classics such as roasted chicken and assorted delights with sakura shrimp to the rich notes of tiramisu, the velvety richness of black sesame lava paste, and the bold character of mocha hazelnut. Each flavour is carefully composed to offer a refreshing interpretation of tradition while honouring the enduring essence of Asian culinary heritage.

Pan Pacific launches 2026 mooncake collection Pan Pacific is delighted to introduce the 2026 Mooncake Collection, “Huong Moc Luu Nien” (The timeless fragrance of memory) – a new signature that continues preserving the spirit of Mid-Autumn through the years.

Muong Thanh group launches 2026 mooncake collection Joining the joyful atmosphere of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Muong Thanh Group officially introduces its 2026 premium mooncake collection, "Heritage sound - Embracing affection."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2Q26 Operational Achievements & 2026 Outlook

Global CDMO Operations

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pharma Sales Operations

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

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

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

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

CHC Operations

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

Recent Investor Conference

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

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

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

Bora 2026 Earnings Schedule

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

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

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

A New Standard for Compact Commercial Cleaning

As cleaning automation expands from large facilities to smaller commercial locations, businesses need robots that can navigate tight spaces without compromising performance or autonomy. Larger robots can be difficult to deploy in compact stores, while smaller machines often require more manual intervention. PUDU ET1 addresses this gap by combining compact mobility with commercial-grade cleaning and full-process automation for small-format businesses.

Powerful Cleaning in One Pass

ET1 integrates scrubbing, sweeping, vacuuming and dust-mopping in one robot. Its front-sweep, rear-scrub structure handles dry debris and wet stains in a single pass, helping stores improve cleaning efficiency without repeated manual work.

For deeper stain removal, ET1 combines a scrubbing roller speed of up to 800 rpm with 20 kPa suction to remove grease, footprints and stubborn stains while efficiently recovering dirt and wastewater. For sticky stains commonly found in restaurants, convenience stores and retail spaces, ET1 supports 85°C hot scrubbing, with hot water supplied by the docking station and maintained by the robot during operation.

ET1 also features real-time roller mop self-cleaning, continuously refreshing the roller to reduce dirt buildup and help prevent secondary contamination. Its streak-free cleaning design quickly recovers dirty water, leaving floors dry with minimal residual moisture and helping reduce slip risks in customer-facing spaces.

Automation That Extends Beyond Cleaning

ET1 is paired with a fully automated 8-in-1 docking station, covering automatic charging, clean water refilling, wastewater drainage, detergent dispensing, roller mop rinsing, squeegee rinsing, roller spin-drying and water heating. After each task, ET1 automatically returns to the station to complete a self-cleaning cycle, reducing daily manual intervention for store teams.

ET1 also features auto dust collection, transferring dust, hair and debris after cleaning tasks to further reduce routine upkeep. This end-to-end automation allows small commercial spaces to move beyond robot-assisted cleaning toward a more hands-free operating model.

AI Magic Cleaning for Adaptive Operations

ET1 continues PUDU Cleaning's AI-native technology roadmap with AI Magic Cleaning, integrating perception, motion control and cleaning systems into a unified intelligent workflow. It supports autonomous mapping, automatic stain recognition, cleaning heatmaps and AI adaptive cleaning, continuously optimizing each task based on real-time floor conditions.

With AI floor surface and stain recognition, ET1 can detect carpet edges and lift the scrubbing roller to keep carpets dry, or lift the sweeping brush and side brush over liquid spills to prevent spreading mess and secondary contamination. For stubborn stains, AI Adaptive Scrubbing automatically lowers cruise speed, increases roller speed and boosts water output for deeper cleaning.

Built for Easy Deployment and Chain-Scale Use

For chain brands, ET1 is designed for easy deployment, operation and maintenance.

With Auto Mapping and One-click Start, store teams can begin cleaning without complex setup or manual mapping, lowering deployment barriers and enabling faster in-store demonstrations.

The robot also features an intuitive operating system with dedicated modes for managers and daily operators, built-in guidance and proactive maintenance reminders.

Its modular cleaning components are designed for quick removal and washing, helping teams maintain the robot more easily while reducing long-term operating costs.

Built for Narrow Aisles and Busy Stores

Built for real-world small business environments, ET1 can navigate spaces with a minimum clearance of 50 cm in width and 60 cm in height, allowing it to move through narrow aisles, shelf gaps and low-clearance areas in convenience stores, drugstores and restaurants. It can operate during business hours while reducing disruption to customers and staff, making all-day cleaning more practical in dynamic commercial spaces.

Its edge cleaning capability also helps improve coverage along walls, shelves and corners, addressing areas often missed in routine cleaning.

More Than a Cleaner

For retail scenarios, ET1 can be equipped with an optional 21.5-inch advertising display, enabling stores to show promotions, product campaigns and brand content. With cloud-based content management and customizable body wraps, the robot can also serve as a mobile in-store marketing touchpoint, creating additional value beyond cleaning.

As the first product in the PUDU E Series, ET1 marks a strategic expansion of PUDU's commercial cleaning portfolio. Together with the PUDU CC1 Series, MT1 Series and BG1 Series, ET1 enables PUDU to provide cleaning solutions across different commercial space sizes, from small stores to large commercial complexes, supermarkets, office buildings, warehouses and logistics facilities.

According to Frost & Sullivan's 2025 Global Embodied Intelligence and Commercial Service Robotics Independent Market Research Report, Pudu Robotics ranks No. 1 globally in commercial cleaning robotics revenue with a 29% market share. The launch of ET1 further strengthens PUDU's leadership in commercial cleaning robotics and reflects the company's long-term commitment to real-world commercial scenarios, AI-native innovation and scalable robotic solutions.

The effort builds on more than a decade of Vitamin Angels' work in Indonesia. Since 2015, the organization has supported vitamin A supplementation and deworming (VAS+D) through local nongovernmental organizations across the country. This expanded collaboration with the Ministry of Health marks a new milestone in Vitamin Angels' long-standing commitment to improving child nutrition and supporting government-led nutrition programs across the country.

Every February and August, the Ministry of Health of Indonesia leads a nationwide vitamin A supplementation campaign, providing vitamin A to children ages 6 to 59 months to support healthy vision, immune function, growth, and development. Vitamin A is proven to reduce child mortality by up to 24% in populations at risk of vitamin A deficiency, making effective implementation critical. According to the 2023 National Health Survey (Survei Kesehatan Indonesia), 21.5% of children under age five were stunted and 8.5% experienced wasting, underscoring the importance of delivering proven nutrition interventions that support healthy child growth and development. Despite the program's scale, ensuring every eligible child receives the recommended two doses each year remains an ongoing challenge. The same survey reported that 49.9% of eligible children received one dose of vitamin A, while only 32.2% received the recommended two doses, highlighting opportunities to strengthen implementation nationwide.

To support those efforts, Vitamin Angels worked alongside the Ministry of Health to strengthen multiple aspects of program implementation including review of existing information, education, and communication materials, helped develop updated communication strategies and behavior change resources, pre-tested campaign materials, strengthened monitoring and evaluation activities, trained frontline health workers, and helped ensure vitamin A supplies were available for the August campaign.

"The greatest impact comes when governments lead and partners strengthen what's already working," said Otte Santika, Indonesia Country Advisor, Vitamin Angels. "Supporting the Ministry of Health's national campaign for the first time marks an important milestone in our work to improve child health in Indonesia. We're proud to contribute our technical expertise and experience to help strengthen a program that reaches millions of children across the country and continues to improve with each campaign."

One of the campaign's largest initiatives focused on strengthening the capacity of frontline health workers responsible for delivering vitamin A services across the country. Vitamin Angels supported a national webinar led by the Ministry of Health featuring ministry leaders, pediatric nutrition experts, and communication specialists. The live training reached 3,755 participants from across Indonesia. Within a few days of its release on the Ministry of Health's digital learning platform, the recorded webinar had been viewed by an additional 17,995 participants (as of August 11, 2026), demonstrating strong demand for practical guidance and professional development among health workers nationwide.

"Indonesia's National Vitamin A Supplementation Program plays a critical role in protecting the health and development of children across the country," said Dr. Lovely Daisy, MKM, Director of Family Health Services, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, during the vitamin A webinar on July 27, 2026. "We appreciate Vitamin Angels' support in strengthening health worker capacity, improving communication strategies, supporting monitoring and evaluation, and helping ensure vitamin A was available for this campaign. Together, we are building an even stronger program that will benefit more children in the years ahead."

In addition to technical support, Vitamin Angels responded to an urgent request from the Ministry to help secure vitamin A capsules ahead of the August campaign. Working with local manufacturer Kimia Farma and Ministry officials, the organization coordinated procurement and delivery of 870,000 vitamin A capsules. The rapid response helped ensure uninterrupted implementation of the nationwide campaign and timely distribution to children throughout Indonesia.

The August campaign also laid the foundation for continued improvements. Following implementation, Vitamin Angels will continue supporting the Ministry's monitoring and evaluation activities, refinement of communication strategies and educational materials, and planning for the February 2027 Vitamin A Supplementation Month. Lessons learned from this campaign will help strengthen future implementation and support the Ministry's efforts to reach more children with essential nutrition services.

To learn more, visit vitaminangels.org.

Insta360 currently holds 71% value share (US$) of the global panoramic camera (360 camera) market (according to IDC's Worldwide Quarterly Handheld Smart Camera Tracker Report, 26Q1). X6 is built to extend that lead by making one camera enough.

"X6 is the camera we always wanted to build. It captures everything around you, in any light, and hands you a finished edit before you even reach for your phone," shares JK Liu, Founder of Insta360.

X6 is available in Australia from August 12 through the Insta360 Official Store, Amazon, and a broad network of leading national and specialist retailers, including JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, The Good Guys, Camera House and Costco, priced from AU$1,049.99.

Additional bundles are also available exclusively through the Insta360 Official Store, including the Essentials Bundle at AU$1,159.99. Customers who purchase and activate X6 before September 30, 2026, will receive one year of Insta360+ Premium cloud storage at 500GB, plus three months of Moments Pro (two clips per month) at no extra cost.

Image Quality: Superior Detail, Day and Night

X6 sees more light than any X camera before it. Custom dual Sony 1/1.1" square sensors deliver full 1-inch equivalent 360 imaging, 33% more sensor area than X5 and around four times the light intake per frame.

Behind the sensors sits a triple AI chip: one 8-core 3.3GHz 4nm flagship processor paired with two dedicated imaging chips. Together they bring 500% more computing power than X5, a 106% faster clock speed, and 35% lower power draw. A new low-light mode adds two ambient light sensors to cut flicker and pull more out of night scenes, while AdaptiveTone 2.0 meters each lens on its own and captures two exposures per frame for wider dynamic range.

X6 is also the first 360 camera with native in-camera Dolby Vision. Paired with 10-bit color and more than 1.07 billion recordable colors, X6 delivers a professional color profile straight out of the camera.

The 3-in-1 Camera Ecosystem

X6 is a 360 camera, a subject-tracking gimbal camera, and a single-lens action cam, and it switches between all three in a tap.

Shoot first, frame later. Hit record and stay in the moment. X6 captures everything around you at native 8K50fps, so you come back later and pull the best angles from any direction.

Flat 4K straight from the camera. InstaFrame 2.0 locks onto subjects instantly and tracks people, pets, and objects across the frame, giving you clean flat 4K video with no editing step. Pair X6 with the new Foldable Selfie Stick Remote Kit and its joystick control turns that tracking into gimbal-style shooting. Add the POV Head Tracker and framing follows your eyeline instead, so the camera captures whatever you turn to look at.

A classic action cam when you want one. Switch to single-lens and shoot like a traditional action camera at up to 5K60fps, wide-angle up to 170 degrees (at 5K30fps), or 4K120fps for slow motion that earns the replay.

Flagship Hardware Built for Adventure

X6 features a 2.32-inch OLED display with up to 1200 nits of peak brightness, designed for improved visibility outdoors.

Its new 2600mAh Xtreme Battery delivers up to 140 minutes of 8K30fps 360 recording and supports fast charging to 80% in approximately 24 minutes. It is also designed to perform reliably in temperatures as low as -20°C.

X6 introduces Replaceable Lens 2.0, offering improved scratch resistance while making damaged lenses easier and more affordable to replace.

X6 is waterproof to 20 metres without a case, or up to 60 metres with the Invisible Dive Case Pro. It also includes built-in storage, allowing users to start recording even without a microSD card installed.

An upgraded four-microphone system improves wind reduction, while a new Hidden Engine Mic is designed specifically to capture cleaner motorcycle engine sound at speed.

X6 also supports more than 100 accessories across Insta360's magnetic mounting ecosystem, with compatibility extending across existing X5, X4 Air and Ace Series mounts.

Zero-Edit: A Finished Video While You Charge

X6 edits for you, and Insta360 PanoMind is what makes it possible. Built in-house and trained on more than 10,000 hours of footage across 30-plus scenarios including travel, daily life, winter sports, motorcycling, diving, and cycling, PanoMind is the first 360-native AI model to understand a full spherical scene rather than a flat frame.

Plug X6 in to charge and AI Director, the auto-edit engine inside PanoMind, builds a highlight edit from the footage on the camera and delivers the finished clips to the Insta360 app. Analysis runs on the camera itself rather than in the cloud, and the feature can be switched off at any time.

When you want to shape a clip yourself, Auto Edit 2.0 turns one clip or many into a complete edit in a single tap: framing, camera movement, cuts, music, and transitions.

Follow us on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/insta360

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/insta360

Mr. Ma Huateng, Chairman and CEO of Tencent, said, "As we entered into the third quarter of the year, we are making substantial progress towards building a new, AI-empowered Tencent in terms of intelligence, applications, and infrastructure. At the intelligence level, Hy3's production version provides users a widely used model with strong cost-performance metrics, and serves as a stepping-stone toward the Hy family of models attaining state-of-the-art capabilities in the future. At the application level, our WorkBuddy AI office productivity service and CodeBuddy AI coding tool are achieving breakout user growth and are the clear leaders in their fields in China today^[1]. At the infrastructure level, we substantially stepped up our procurement of compute, which will enable us to convert usage of our applications and models into revenue going forward. At the same time, we continue to enhance our existing services, with sustained marketing services revenue growth, several successful recently released games, and rapidly increasing video views on Weixin Video Accounts."

2Q2026 Financial Highlights

Revenues: +11% YoY, gross profit: +13% YoY, non-IFRS operating profit: +9% YoY

• Total revenues were RMB204.8 billion, up 11% over the second quarter of 2025 ("YoY").
• Gross profit was RMB118.4 billion, up 13% YoY.
• On a non-IFRS basis, which is intended to reflect core earnings by excluding certain one-time and/or non-cash items:
  • Operating profit was RMB75.6 billion, up 9% YoY. Operating margin decreased to 37% from 38% last year.
  • Operating profit excluding New AI Products^[2] was RMB86.1 billion, increased by 19% YoY. Operating margin excluding new AI products contributions increased to 42% from 39% last year.
  • Net profit was RMB 70.6 billion, up 9% YoY.
  • Net profit attributable to equity holders of the Company was RMB68.4 billion, up 9% YoY.
  • Basic earnings per share were RMB7.581. Diluted earnings per share were RMB7.433.
• On an IFRS basis:
  • Operating profit was RMB67.3 billion, up 12% YoY. Operating margin was stable at 33%.
  • Net profit was RMB58.0 billion, up 3% YoY.
  • Net profit attributable to equity holders of the Company was RMB56.0 billion, up 0.7% YoY.
  • Basic earnings per share were RMB6.207. Diluted earnings per share were RMB6.104.
• Capital expenditure was RMB52.8 billion, up 176% YoY.
• Total cash was RMB511.2 billion, up 9% YoY. Net cash position totalled RMB58.2 billion, down 22% YoY.
• We recorded negative free cash flow of RMB13.8 billion for 2Q2026, as net cash generated from operating activities of RMB52.7 billion was more than offset by capital expenditure payments of RMB59.3 billion, media content payments of RMB5.0 billion and lease liability payments of RMB2.2 billion. Included in our operating cash flow were large AI-related prepayments to provide infrastructure to support our Hy model enhancements, WorkBuddy and CodeBuddy inference needs, Weixin AI initiatives, and development of AI capabilities across our products and services, as well as to meet growing external demand for our cloud services. Excluding the prepayments for compute procurement, our free cash flow would have been RMB37.6 billion.
• The fair value of our shareholdings^[3] inlisted investee companies (excluding subsidiaries) totalled RMB487.2 billion as at 30 June 2026, compared with RMB547.1 billion as at 31 March 2026. The carrying book value of our shareholdings inunlisted investee companies (excluding subsidiaries) was RMB387.9 billion as at 30 June 2026, compared with RMB365.1 billion as at 31 March 2026.
• During 2Q2026, the Company repurchased approximately 37.4 million shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for an aggregate consideration of approximately HKD16.9 billion.

2Q2026 Management Discussion and Analysis

Revenues from VAS increased by 8% year-on-year to RMB98.4 billion for 2Q2026. Domestic Games revenues were RMB47.3 billion, up 17% year-on-year, driven by growth from most of our major games, with notable contributions from Delta Force, VALORANT PC and MOBILE, and Roco Kingdom: World. International Games revenues were RMB18.6 billion, down 0.8% year-on-year due to foreign currency movements, or up 4% year-on-year in constant currency terms, as higher revenues from Wuthering Waves and VALORANT PC were offset by lower revenues from certain Supercell games. Social Networks revenues increased by 0.8% year-on-year to RMB32.5 billion.

Revenues from Marketing Services were RMB43.6 billion for 2Q2026, up 22% year-on-year, supported by enhancements to our AI-driven ad recommendation model (which determines the ad shown to each user for each impression), upgrades to our automated campaign management solution AIM+ (which helps advertisers purchase performant impressions), and integration of closed-loop marketing capabilities within the Weixin ecosystem (which facilitates Weixin-integrated services, such as Mini Games and Mini Shops, to advertise more effectively on Tencent-managed ad properties). Most major industry categories increased marketing spending on our platforms during the quarter.

Revenues from FinTech and Business Services rose by 9% year-on-year to RMB60.3 billion for 2Q2026. FinTech Services revenue growth was mainly due to higher revenues from commercial payment, wealth management and consumer loan services. Business Services revenue growth was primarily driven by increased revenues from our cloud services, underpinned by greater demand for AI-related services, ongoing international expansion, and a more favourable pricing environment.

Operating Metrics

Business Review and Outlook

• We released the full Hy3 production version in July 2026, which delivered a substantial step-up in performance versus the Hy3 preview version, and significantly outperforms most similar-sized models. Since its launch, Hy3 has consistently ranked among the top 3 models globally in terms of token consumption on OpenRouter^[5].
• WorkBuddy is achieving rapid user growth and healthy user retention rates, with high user willingness to pay for tokens via subscriptions and top-ups. WorkBuddy's market leadership is underpinned by its robust harness engineering, wide range of model availability, and industry-leading Skills library.
• In recent weeks, we have begun a small-scale prototype test for Xiaowei, the agentic AI inside Weixin. Xiaowei is powered by a customised model, WeLM, built for user privacy, Weixin-specific use cases and inference efficiency.
• Video Accounts' total time spent grew more than 20% year-on-year in 2Q2026, benefitting from enriched content for younger users, upgraded interactive features and a new multi-variable content ranking system.
• Our domestic evergreen games^[6], Delta Force and VALORANT PC, achieved lifetime highs in average DAU in 2Q2026. Our new game, Roco Kingdom: World, ranked first by average DAU^[7] and by gross receipts^[8] among all new mobile titles released in China year-to-date.
• Miniclip attained breakout success in international markets as Arrows – Puzzle Escape became the most downloaded mobile game globally in 2Q2026^[9], generating robust in-app advertising revenues.
• We upgraded our automated campaign management solution, AIM+, with AI-powered end-to-end execution capabilities for mini shop and mini drama advertisers.

For other detailed disclosure, please refer to our website https://www.tencent.com/en-us/investors.html, or follow us via Weixin Official Account (Weixin ID: TencentGlobal).

The agreement was signed by Abraham Mose, President Director of PT GARAM, and Tim Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of PT Acwa Power Indonesia, at Danantara's office in Jakarta and witnessed by H.E. Rosan Roeslani, Chief Executive Officer of Danantara and Minister of Investment of the Republic of Indonesia. Planned for Manyar in Gresik, East Java, and valued at approximately USD 400 million, the facility will combine a seawater reverse-osmosis (SWRO) plant with an integrated salt production line, producing around 62,500 cubic meters of desalinated water per day and approximately 500,000 tons of high-purity industrial salt a year.

Dr. Samir J. Serhan, Chief Executive Officer of Acwa, said: "Indonesia is an important growth market for Acwa, and this agreement represents another step in our commitment to supporting the country's long-term water and industrial needs. By combining our expertise in large-scale seawater desalination with the production of high-purity industrial salt, we have an opportunity to deliver an integrated solution that strengthens water security while supporting Indonesia's ambition to increase domestic salt production. We look forward to working closely with PT GARAM and Danantara to advance this important project."

The project is designed on a Build-Own-Operate basis and will be developed through a project company established in Indonesia, using a limited or non-recourse project financing structure anchored in the project's own cash flows. Indonesia currently imports more than 4 million tons of industrial salt a year, with demand expected to rise to more than 7.7 million tons by 2028. By recovering high-purity salt as a co-product of the desalination brine-management process, the Gresik facility is designed to increase domestic salt supply while providing a reliable source of desalinated water for industrial use. The project also creates the potential, subject to feasibility, to recover additional marine minerals from the same process.

Abraham Mose, President Director of PT GARAM, said: "The signing of this Joint Development Agreement marks a significant milestone for PT GARAM in building a salt industry that is more modern, efficient, and competitive. This enables Indonesia to increase salt production capacity while also building an industrial ecosystem that integrates desalination technology, industrial salt production, energy efficiency, and the potential for developing other marine minerals. Technology and knowledge transfer are central to this collaboration, and our aim is to ensure that Indonesia has world-scale production facilities alongside the workforce capable of operating and developing them sustainably."

Tim Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of PT Acwa Power Indonesia, said: "This is a strong foundation for developing an integrated solution tailored to Indonesia's needs. Combining desalinated water and high-purity industrial salt production within a single facility creates the potential to address two important national priorities at once. Our focus will now be on working closely with PT GARAM to progress the project responsibly and establish the foundations for its successful long-term development."

Under the agreement, Acwa will contribute its experience in desalination project development, technology selection, technical design, financing structure, engineering, procurement, and construction, as well as long-term operations and maintenance. The collaboration also includes knowledge and technology transfer, training, and the sharing of operating protocols with personnel from PT GARAM and the project company. PT GARAM will lead site readiness and project access, permitting, and stakeholder coordination in Indonesia, and the development of markets and commercial channels for the facility's output.

Acwa holds more than 98 GW of global power capacity, including more than 52 GW of renewable energy, and is the world's largest private water desalination company. Its global experience in developing, financing, constructing, and operating large-scale water and power infrastructure, together with its growing presence in Indonesia, positions the company to support the country's long-term demand for reliable and sustainable water solutions.

Learn more: www.acwapower.com

The capital made forays into 35 countries and territories. Laos ranked first, receiving more than $638.2 million, equal to 27 per cent of total capital, followed by Cambodia with more than $449.8 million (19 per cent), and Indonesia with more than $308.6 million (13.1 per cent).

The capital was injected into 15 sectors. Transport and warehousing enticed the largest amount, with total registered investment capital of more than $601.6 million, equal to 25.5 per cent of total capital.

Viettel is one of local firms with substantial outbound investment. Photo: baodautu.vn

Electricity and gas production and distribution ranked second, with more than $585.8 million, equal to 24.8 per cent.

Agriculture, forestry and fisheries ranked third, with total registered investment capital of more than $487.3 million, equal to 20.6 per cent.

As of the end of July 2026, according to FIA, Vietnam had 2,075 valid overseas investment projects with total overseas investment capital of more than $26.1 billion.

Of this amount, investment was concentrated mainly in mining, surpassing $7 billion, accounting for 27 per cent of total capital; agriculture, forestry and fisheries with more than $3.8 billion, accounting for 15 per cent; and information and communications with more than $2.9 billion, accounting for 11 per cent.

By destination, Vietnamese businesses have invested in 88 countries and territories. The destinations receiving the largest amounts of Vietnamese investment were Laos with more than $7 billion, accounting for 26.9 per cent of total capital; Cambodia came second alluring more than $3.3 billion, accounting for 12.9 per cent; and Venezuela ranked third courting more than $1.8 billion, accounting for 7 per cent, among others.

Part of outbound investment has also been directed to Russia, Australia, Myanmar and Singapore.

Regarding outbound investment activities, in a study released in late June, the United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) noted that the trend of moving production activities to geographically closer markets, or nearshoring, was gaining momentum.

About one-third of surveyed Vietnamese businesses (226 businesses, including large and medium-sized entities nationwide) planned to establish or expand manufacturing operations domestically, while many businesses were also considering expansion into ASEAN (43 per cent), further reinforcing the region's role as a key manufacturing and supply chain hub.

According to UOB, this shift is driving a strong wave of international expansion. Seven in 10 Vietnamese businesses expanded their overseas operations in 2025, while nine in 10 planned to continue expanding over the next three years.

Similarly, 80 per cent of Vietnamese businesses planned to invest overseas within the next two years, with the average planned investment expected to exceed $28 million.

ASEAN remained the top preferred destination, selected by 65 per cent of surveyed firms for their expansion plans, with Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia being the markets of greatest interest.

“Vietnamese businesses are demonstrating impressive adaptability and resilience in an increasingly volatile global environment,” said Pham Nhu Anh, head of Wholesale Banking at UOB Vietnam.

According to Nhu Anh, UOB was seeing a clear transformation, moving beyond mere recovery towards a more profound shift, as businesses stepped up investment in digital capabilities, strengthened supply chains and expanded across ASEAN to capture long-term growth opportunities.

Vietnam steps up overseas investment Vietnam’s total outbound investment reached $540.2 million in the first two months of 2026, up 2.3 times on-year, marking a significant expansion of Vietnamese firms’ overseas activities.

Vingroup explores $6.5 billion investment in India Vingroup is mulling $6.5 billion investment in the Indian state of Maharashtra across key ventures, including urban development, electric mobility, energy, and social and public infrastructure.

Vietnam records huge increase in outbound investment in first five months Vietnam’s outbound investment totalled $794.6 million in the first five months of 2026, 2.5 times higher than the same period last year.

Vietnamese groups expand their footprint across Southeast Asia Vietnamese businesses are actively extending their reach into neighbouring countries as part of their regional expansion strategies.