China dairy giant Yili’s West Coast-based New Zealand operations have delivered record revenue and profits, driven by a strategic shift into higher-value dairy products.

The group – which includes Westland Milk Products, Oceania Dairy and EasiYo – reported revenue of $1.58 billion in 2025, up 14 percent, while pre-tax profit jumped more than three-fold to $58.4 million.

Yili entered the New Zealand dairy sector in 2013 with its Oceania Dairy investment in South Canterbury, later expanding its footprint with the purchase of Westland Milk Products in 2019.

The companies, operating collectively as the Yili Oceania Group, undertook a major business transformation in 2025, increasing collaboration between Westland Milk Products and Oceania Dairy, which it said has accelerated earnings growth.

It says this helped accelerate earnings growth despite the farmgate milk price rising 30 percent to $10.16 per kilogram of milk solids.

Executive director of Yili Oceania, Zhiqiang Li, said the structural upgrade and capability enhancement programme has delivered solid, higher-quality growth, shifting the business from a volume-driven model to one focused on value.

“By accelerating the shift towards value-added products, we achieved record-high revenue and profit, while also making tangible progress in capacity expansion, operational efficiency and global channel development,” he said.

The company has also strengthened its leadership team over the past year, including the appointment of Alex Turnbull as chief executive in February.

Li thanked staff and said the company had worked to build strong partnerships with New Zealand dairy farmers and other partners.

“Over the past decade of investment in New Zealand, we have worked hard to build fair, transparent and sustainable relationships, ensuring that value is shared across the supply chain,” he said.

Chief executive Alex Turnbull said the group remains focused on its role as an economic cornerstone of the West Coast, adding the results would allow continued investment in the business and workforce.

He said strong pricing, a greater focus on higher-value products, and foreign exchange management supported the result.

“The business is now well-placed to build further on the value-over-volume strategy,” Turnbull said.

The group has expanded production capacity with a third butter line at Hokitika to boost output of Westgold butter, and commissioned a second lactoferrin plant at the site, making it one of the largest lactoferrin production facilities in the world.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

The Auckland Travel Show is taking place for the second time this weekend, but it’s the first time the event will be held at the new New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC).

The show is taking place during a period of global uncertainty as airlines increase airfares to deal with the skyrocketing cost of fuel.

Rob Eliott, founder of Lemongrass Productions, the company behind the show says Kiwis reputation to travel has attracted exhibitors from around the world to showcase their destinations and services.

“I was talking to one of our suppliers, Wendy Wu, who said they just released a new China 10-day tour, and it has gone great-guns. And of course, by the time you get there your dollar goes a bit further in some of these places.”

He says post-Covid, Kiwis are prioritising travel, but they’re doing it differently.

“There’s strong demand for destinations across Asia including China, Malaysia and Sri Lanka, with people looking for deeper cultural experiences and more meaningful connections with the places they visit,” he told Morning Report.

“We’re also seeing a shift away from rushed, jam-packed itineraries toward slower, more immersive travel. Multi-generational travel continues to grow, alongside strong interest in cruising and small group tours, as people look for experiences that feel more personal, social and worthwhile.

“Travel doesn’t seem to have fallen off people’s radar. I put that largely down to a reprioritisation after Covid, when we couldn’t travel.

“People really felt they were missing out a lot.

“So truly, people, having spent quite a lot of time thinking about it, have taken the view that, well, you know, life is short, you have to get out there and experience it.”

He said the travel show aimed to get people face-to-face talking about their travel dreams, in a world dominated by digital inspiration.

The event will also feature destination panels, cultural showcases and a mix of international cuisines.

The travel industry suffered another setback this year, due to uncertainty in the Middle East and increasing fuel prices forcing airlines including Air New Zealand to cut flights and increase airfares.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

New Zealand is exporting much of its premium product – and then importing cheaper options for New Zealand shoppers, economists say.

Pak’nSave’s move to sell United States butter more cheaply than local butter has prompted conversations about how it is possible for imported items can be offered at a lower price than those produced in the country.

But trade data shows that butter is far from the only item that has a higher price when it’s made in New Zealand.

Cat and dog food was cheaper when imported. Dog biscuits – most imported from Australia, Canada, and China – were 87.6 percent cheaper than the export price of New Zealand products.

Water with added flavouring was also 25 percent cheaper when brought in from countries like the United States than the local product was exported.

Jams and marmalades were 21.9 percent cheaper when imported – often from Chile and Poland.

We also import cheaper wine than we export – among still wines, imported products were 25 percent cheaper. Australian wines were 54 percent of imports.

Confectionary, including white chocolate, was 37.8 percent cheaper when imported, mostly from Australia and China. Sweet biscuits were 64.4 percent cheaper imported, usually from Australia,

Some beef and lamb cuts imported for New Zealand consumers were also cheaper than those exported.

“We’re quite often exporting premium products to a premium market segment, whereas we’re importing the commodity stuff for the mass market,” economist Shamubeel Eaqub said.

“It’s picking up that difference in what we export versus what we consume. But it still begs the question, if we’re so good at making these things, why is it that we can’t have some of those other products, as well? Why is it that we’re reliant on imports? It’s not necessarily a good or bad thing, it’s just a question.

“I think to me it raises the question of is it really not possible to produce pet food for our pets in New Zealand given all the bobby calves we have? The fact we’re importing beef from Aussie and lamb from Aussie… I’m driving through Southland at the moment and seeing a lot of cows and sheep.”

He said there was a “spaghetti junction” of food going out and food coming in to meet different needs.

Westpac chief economist Kelly Eckhold said it was probably driven by economies of scale.

“It could be that these things are being manufactured in large facilities in Australia or up in Asia. They just have that economy of scale, perhaps reflecting lower input costs as well if these are energy-intensive products.

“Canned vegetables, fruit juice things like that… you wouldn’t automatically think that these would be energy-intensive processes but they kind of are. Countries like China are quite competitive because their costs of production are lower.”

He said New Zealand wine would be more of a premium product than much of the product that was being imported more cheaply.

“If you had it broken down by colour, I bet you would find that if we export red wine it’s probably pinot noir, but it would be more expensive than the typical red wine that would be imported into this country.

“In some of these industries if we’re exporting it’s because we’re a niche or premium end of the market.”

ANZ economist Matt Dilly said it would help to think of how competitive New Zealand was in various products. “I’d say most of our wine exports are in a category that I’d call affordable luxury. A typical bottle maybe $20 a bottle, maybe a bit less, maybe a bit more. But we do import a lot of cheaper wine from Australia. I think that’s a situation where we have a competitive advantage. We make excellent wine and export a lot of it but that doesn’t mean there are zero imports.

“We do import beef and lamb even though we’re really great at that. We import some cheese and some of those varieties we don’t make ourselves, especially European varieties.

“This framework about what we’re competitive in and what’s easily traded, there’s always going to be exceptions.”

“We import a lot of wheat, a lot of pork, vegetable oil. So these are things that are really tradable that, we don’t have a great competitive advantage in like we do for dairy and some of our other large products.

“Then there’s those other things that are naturally very difficult to trade, especially from an island country. So we make really good eggs, but we don’t export them because they’re fragile and perishable… have a (pretty robust two-way trade with Australia, going in both directions across the Tasman and, and that’s a function of our shared food safety system. So that’s something that’s really good for processed food products rather than the raw materials.”

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Costa Rica has become the thirteenth member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, with New Zealand exports to the Central American nation set to benefit from next year.

It becomes the second nation to accede to the CPTPP outside the original membership, following the United Kingdom.

Entry isn’t expected until the second half of 2027, but trade minister Todd McClay said it meant over 94 percent of New Zealand’s exports to Costa Rica would be duty-free from day one, and 99 percent within ten years.

“The continued expansion of the CPTPP is important for growing New Zealand’s preferential access to markets, as well as in response to increased challenges to the rules-based trade system,” he said.

Along with New Zealand, the other members of the agreement are Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam.

Australian trade minister Don Farrell said members of the CPTPP demonstrated they could “meet, implement and adhere to the rules and standards of the Agreement, and have a demonstrated track record of complying with trade commitments.”

China, Taiwan, Ecuador, Uruguay, Ukraine, Indonesia, Philippines, United Arab Emirates, and Cambodia have all applied to join the agreement.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

An Auckland couple have been sentenced for importing and selling thousands of illegal weapons and drug paraphernalia.

The pair were sentenced in the Auckland District Court on Tuesday, with a 50-year-old man given eight months home detention, and a 49-year-old woman ordered to pay $1200.

Their East Tamaki importing company, Kai Yuan 365 Limited, was given a $45,000 fine and convicted on four charges of importing prohibited goods, as well as a charge of selling prohibited goods.

Customs said investigators in June 2025 searched the couple’s home, business, and a storage facility, discovering large numbers of

flick knives, butterfly knives, and throwing knives, alongside knuckle-dusters and military style airguns.

The goods sourced from China arrived in multiple sea freight consignments, it said, with thousands of prohibited items seized between October 2022 and February 2025 including knives, bayonets, and utensils for methamphetamine.

Acting chief Customs officer for fraud and prohibition Kylie Campbell said it was evident the couple knew they were breaking the law.

“Many people may not realise that certain types of knives, knuckledusters, bayonets and airguns are classified as prohibited or offensive weapons, which makes them illegal to import into New Zealand the couple knew they were breaking the law,” she said.

“Knife crime is a serious threat to public safety, and it is prohibited to import offensive weapons without police consent.”

Campbell urged anyone who knew or suspected someone of smuggling prohibited weapons to contact Customs.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Hundreds visited Auckland Art Gallery over the weekend to view more than 60 works by 42 Chinese artists that included photography, sculptures, installations, moving images and new media.

Titled Forever Tomorrow: Chinese Art Now, the exhibition is the first major survey of Chinese contemporary art displayed in Auckland on this scale.

The exhibition features work by some of China’s best-known contemporary artists, including Ai Weiwei, Xu Zhen, Xiao Lu and Cao Fei, alongside artists exhibiting in New Zealand for the first time.

Among the key works is Ai Weiwei’s Dropping a Han Dynasty Urn, a photographic series capturing an act of deliberate destruction that raises questions about history and cultural memory.

Also on view is a striking sculptural work by multimedia artist Xu Zhen.

Standing 7.5 metres tall and weighing 3 tonnes, the work brings together a Buddhist figure associated with China’s Tianlongshan Grottoes and the sweeping form of Greek sculpture Winged Victory of Samothrace.

Another featured work is a robotic Corinthian column that stands nearly 4m tall and occupies an 8m x 8m footprint, giving a classical symbol of Western civilization an unsettling – almost living – presence.

The exhibition opened to the public on Saturday, attracting visitors from all walks of life for a first look.

Troy Zhou, who has lived in New Zealand for about a decade, said he felt proud as a Chinese New Zealander to see such a large-scale presentation of Chinese contemporary art.

He said the exhibition offered people from different backgrounds an opportunity to better understand Chinese culture.

“I think it is a window for the world to understand China,” he said.

“Artistic expressions are diverse. Through the work of these artists, visitors from different countries and ethnic groups can find resonance with their own cultures.

“They can learn more about Chinese culture through these artworks.”

Heather Cunningham, who has previously visited China with her daughter, said she was struck by some of the political elements in the exhibition and by the courage of some Chinese artists in questioning and challenging history.

She said the exhibition also gave her a new perspective on Chinese contemporary art, including its use of technology.

“This is very technologically advanced in terms of the video,” she said.

“The layered look, how the videos are used, how the photographs are used, how they are presented, the subject matter. It is very new to me, which is so exciting.”

Clara Curtice, who visited Beijing and Shanghai about a decade ago, said she was also struck by the political elements represented in the exhibition.

“I am really enjoying considering that there is still a strong political element to what these artists are trying to say, and that they use old types of Chinese art to express modern political ideas,” she said.

Curtice was impressed by the way the exhibition reflected China’s rapid transformation and the enormous disruption experienced by its people over a short period of time.

“It reminds me that this is a significant population, and there are a multitude of different ways of seeing the world,” she said. “It is a really interesting space.”

Hutch Wilco, exhibition project manager at Auckland Art Gallery, said Auckland’s Chinese community had grown rapidly over the past 15 years and that New Zealanders’ interest in contemporary Chinese culture and art had also increased.

Wilco said the exhibition highlighted the breadth of contemporary Chinese art.

Spanning the period from China’s reforms and the introduction of an “open door” policy in 1978 to the present day, the show reflects the country’s dramatic transformation over more than four decades, he said.

“There’s this sense of speed in the development in China,” he said.

“That is something we are all feeling globally, particularly since Covid, with changes to society, changes to global politics … and the impact of artificial intelligence.

“I think we can learn from the experience that has really sort of preceded us in the experience of China and Chinese artists.”

Pu Yingwei, a Beijing-based artist, has two paintings on display in the exhibition – one titled Purple King Kong: Red and Blue Entangled in Space and the other Chinacapital 1978.

Pu said his artworks explored the complexities of China’s rapid development, its rise as a global power and the ways that transformation had shaped the country’s relationship with the wider world.

“Chinacapital 1978 tells the story of China’s reform and opening up, and the emergence of a completely new China,” he said.

“It looks at the impact that transformation had on the world, as well as the changes within China itself.”

Pu said his second work, Purple King Kong, examined the entangled relationship between red and blue.

“Red represents China and blue represents Western ideology,” he said.

“The purple figure, formed from a mixture of red and blue, is a metaphor for China’s reform and opening up.”

Pu said the exhibition had also given him an opportunity to see works by other Chinese artists, some for the first time.

“I think this exhibition will provide both New Zealand and Chinese audiences with new insights into contemporary Chinese art,” he said.

Chen Wei, another Chinese artist who travelled to Auckland for the opening of the exhibition, has a photographic work titled Today Is Unsuitable for Shooting on display.

The image, made from a carefully constructed set assembled in his studio, reflects the difficulty of accurately capturing Beijing’s smog.

Chen said the exhibition of contemporary art gave visiting Chinese artists a chance to catch a glimpse of New Zealand’s artistic and cultural landscape.

“When we come here, we can also learn about local culture. At the same time, we invite local audiences to walk into a period of our history,” he said.

“All history is connected. China’s development is closely related to the development of the world.”

Wang Ziquan, a Shanghai-based cross-media artist, has a sculptural work titled Compromise on display in Auckland.

Wang said his practice focused on creating sculptures without relying on traditional sculpting methods.

He hoped audiences could sense the rapid changes taking place in Chinese contemporary art in his work.

“Even things that might once have barely been considered art are now becoming artistic [in China],” he said, noting that internet memes could now be considered a form of contemporary art.

“The shift is enormous,” he said. “Contemporary art today does not necessarily need to be about profound social issues or grand themes. It can also be about small things hidden in the details.”

Wilco agreed, saying the exhibition explored globalization, its effects and the ways different cultures come into contact with one another.

He hoped every visitor would find something in the show that resonated with them.

The exhibition is supported by the Auckland Art Gallery Foundation and the New Zealand government’s Events Boost Fund. It runs through 23 August.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

How can food products that travel into New Zealand from other countries end up being cheaper than those produced locally?

It’s a question some shoppers have been asking because US butter Burtfield’s & Co is being sold at Pak’n Save supermarkets for $6.99 a block, compared to $8.39 for the Pam’s product.

But it’s not the only imported product that is available more cheaply than locally produced options.

The cheapest frozen spinach this week, for example, was packed in Belgium from local and imported spinach. Frozen baby carrots were also imported.

Simplicity chief economist Shamubeel Eaqub said imported butter had been cheaper than export prices for the past two years.

“The main thing is the US has a record dairy herd. They’ve had some problems in terms of exporting to China because of the trade wars, they have a bit of a glut locally. It’s not normal for us to have import prices that are less than export prices.”

But he said the amount of butter being imported was “tiny”.

“Four percent of our consumption in the last 12 months, so a really small amount. It comes with all the issues of logistics, of transporting a bulk commodity around the world.”

‘… some things we don’t have a competitive advantage in’

Westpac chief economist Kelly Eckhold said people often thought of transport as being the main factor in the cost of a food product but it was not always. Things like the cost of energy could affect the price of products that were energy-intensive to make, like fruit juice, he said.

The cheapest one-litre bottle of fruit juice at Woolworths on Tuesday was a Keri juice product made from imported ingredients.

He said about a third of fruit and vegetables were imported. “That reflects the fact that fruit and vegetable supply is seasonal.”

ANZ agricultural economist Matt Dilly said there had been an increase in frozen vegetable imports that was creating competition for the local growers.

“New Zealand doesn’t really have the cost-of-labour advantage or the cost-of-energy advantage. There’s also a lot of tropical fruits and whatnot that we don’t do a very good job of growing ourselves.

“That’s the counterpoint to all the great agricultural exports we have – some things we don’t have a competitive advantage in and we do import them.”

Dilly said the US butter being cheaper would be a short-lived phenomenon.

“It’s pretty unusual right now, where butter prices in the US are at a significant discount to butter prices in New Zealand and Europe. All those things do have a tendency to even out over time.

“While it seems unusual on its face, it is something that can be good for consumers to give them that choice of a lower-priced product, especially when there’s cost of living concerns for a lot of New Zealanders at this point in time.”

Price of agricultural land a factor

Otago University senior lecturer Robert Hamlin said food had become progressively more expensive over the past 30 or 40 years.

“And the primary driver of that has been the building up within this country of the value of agricultural land. Now, the trouble with that is if you end up paying 10 times as much for your land as you used to 30 years ago, it puts the land under pressure. It obviously puts the farm operation under pressure because that’s not actually doing anything to help you produce the product. It’s simply making it more expensive.”

He said while New Zealanders were often told that the price they had to pay was influenced by global price of food, in most places the majority of food was produced and consumed within the region.

“So although we describe Fonterra as a titan of the international dairy trade, which it is, the fact is that the international dairy trade is a very small pond and Fonterra is a big fish in that pond, but it is a very small fish in global terms.

“And this means that you’ve got the majority of food being bought and sold in individual jurisdictions, you’ve got a small percentage of food swilling around internationally.

“New Zealand is really rather unusual in that it has such a very large proportion of its agricultural production is going into this international market for food, which is highly volatile because you’ve got people coming into the market to sell food that they’ve got too much of and then coming into the market to buy food because they haven’t got enough and that food, that means the international price gyrates around more or less continuously.

“But what it boils down to is that we are a high cost producer and we are a higher cost producer than an awful lot of the major producers around the world and therefore you will find out from time to time that food that is produced in this country can be accessed for a considerably lower price overseas than it can be accessed here. And that’s pretty much what’s happened here.”

He said it potentially made New Zealanders vulnerable to the moves of other countries.

“The supply and demand for food across the world is very tight. The amount produced is very close to the amount demanded and this means that it would only take a fairly minor problem within other people’s domestic food market for them to generate a demand in the international market that would make the food in that international market unaffordable for a country that was paying that for all of their food.

“So if we take for example the People’s Republic of China and let’s say that they have a problem with their agricultural production, they could then decide, well we’re going to pay $60 a kilo for milk solids to acquire that small amount of our domestic demand that we need from overseas.

“That will increase the price overall of milk products in China by a relatively small amount, but it would put the price in New Zealand up to $60. So you would essentially be paying $80 a kilo, probably nearly $100 for tasty cheddar and pretty much $100 for butter.

“It’s certainly quite possible given that this country and its exporters believe that they should be allowed to export to global markets for the highest price can achieve and to hell with the consequences for the local population, I’m a little bit concerned about a situation like that could arise very, very quickly.”

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

New requirements for electric vehicle (EV) chargers supplied in New Zealand will make it easier and more affordable for people to charge their vehicles, while helping ensure the electricity system is ready for growing demand, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says.

By 2050, smart EV charging could:

• Reduce household power bills by up to $220 a year
• Save up to $4 billion in electricity network costs

“More New Zealanders are choosing electric vehicles, or considering one for the future, and we need to make sure our electricity system is ready,” Mr Brown says.

EV chargers supplied in New Zealand will need to meet a minimum standard of ‘smart functionality’ and be clearly labelled. This will make it easier for people to choose chargers that can automatically shift charging to cheaper times based on price and network signals, while ensuring their vehicle is charged when they need it.

“This means EV chargers can automatically shift charging to times when electricity is cheaper and demand on the system is lower – such as overnight or other off-peak periods.”

Once in effect, the new requirements will apply to new EV chargers with a charging capacity above 2.4 kW, covering most fixed household and business chargers.

“In practice, this means your EV can charge overnight at cheaper times without needing to think about it.”

Mr Brown says this will become increasingly important as EV uptake grows and electricity demand rises.

“Without smarter charging, unmanaged EV charging could increase household peak demand by up to 40 per cent and add around $220 a year to the average household power bill by 2050. Managing charging can avoid these costs.

“That additional demand would fall on peak times, putting pressure on the grid and driving the need for costly new electricity generation and network upgrades – costs that would ultimately be passed on to consumers.”

Smart EV charging helps avoid this by shifting demand away from peak periods and responding to signals such as time-of-use or dynamic pricing, as well as network constraints.

The potential savings are significant, with avoided network costs of up to $4 billion by 2050.

The decision also brings New Zealand into closer alignment with Australia and other key trading partners, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and China, which are moving towards regulating smart EV charging.

“Our focus is on ensuring all Kiwi households and businesses have secure, affordable energy, particularly as demand grows. This change is about building the future of New Zealand’s energy system – one that is smarter, more resilient, and better able to support the growing use of electric vehicles.”

Note to editors:

• The new requirements will be enabled through amendments to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act 2000. Legislation is expected to be introduced to Parliament later this year and will come into force following the normal Parliamentary process.
• MBIE and EECA (the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) will undertake public consultation on the draft rules to implement these EV charger regulations before they come into force.
• EECA maintains the EV smart charger approved list for chargers that already meet the current voluntary standards for smartness and energy efficiency.
• Portable charging cables that often come with an EV are typically below 2.4 kW, so the new requirements will not apply to them.

MIL OSI

New figures from Stats NZ show the number of marriages and civil unions in New Zealand has fallen again, down 3 percent from 2025 to just under 17,500.

Kirsty Ussher, a Wānaka-based celebrant and wedding planner, told Morning Report the way people mark and celebrate their commitment was changing.

“I think the whole concept of marriage over the last few years has really become quite diluted.

“I feel like people are committed to each other in different ways, and don’t necessarily feel like they need that piece of paper anymore to prove it legally.”

StatsNZ reported 17,481 marriages and civil unions were registered in New Zealand in 2025, including 444 same-sex marriages or civil unions. That’s down from 18,033 in 2024.

While the number of those getting married is trending down, Ussher said it’s still big business in central Otago.

“Wanaka and Queenstown are definitely an outlier. I think there’s contributing factors to those stats. It’s on the decline, but not down here in this wedding bubble.”

That Queenstown wedding bubble is increasingly popular as a destination internationally.

A total of 2565 overseas couples travelled to New Zealand to marry in 2025, up from 2418 couples in 2024.

More than half of those came from Australia, nine percent coming from both the United States and the UK, and seven percent from China, including Hong Kong.

Of those international weddings taking place in New Zealand, 213 were same-sex couples.

Many of those coming from countries where same-sex marriage wasn’t legal such as China and Singapore.

Getting married later in life

In 2025, the median age of those having their first marriage was 30.5 years for women and 31.6 years for men. In 2005, those figures were 28.2 and 30.1 years and in 1971, when marriage rates were at their highest, the median age was 20.8 years for women and 23.0 years for men.

Ussher said most of her couples were in their early to mid-thirties.

“They might be the ones that have the money to be able to afford to get married down here, then we’re just starting to see some Gen-Z’s come through. So those in their mid-to-late twenties, that’s the bulk of them.”

The cost of marriage

Ussher said there had been a definite trend towards smaller weddings as the cost of hosting guests continues to rise.

“I would say, the average cost of a wedding sits around about $60,000.

“That would include everything. I’m talking about your attire, your rings, the venue, the food, and styling.

“We’re seeing people choosing to elope, just the two of them spending money on just themselves for a nice weekend away.”

She said venues, catering and alcohol were the biggest costs.

“We know that food costs have risen, so obviously that’s now being reflected in what caterers are having to charge. And, alcohol.

“People drink a lot of alcohol at weddings. So the more guests you have who are drinkers, the more cost you’re going to incur.

“That’s not to say we’re not still seeing fantastic, big celebratory weddings with 150 guests. Those are still happening.”

“There’s some weddings that push up closer to $100,000 and then we’re still getting people who are managing to do weddings for around $30,000 with a decent guest list of about 80 people.”

The data also revealed 7887 couples got a divorce, with just over a third of marriages ending in divorce before the 25th wedding anniversary.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

The Black Sticks women have finished fourth out of five teams at the Changzhou Invitational Tournament following a 1-0 loss to China A in the bronze medal match.

New Zealand end the tournament with two wins and four defeats, including a 7-0 defeat to Argentina in their penultimate game.

Both China A and the Black Sticks were keen to end their campaigns on a high and the first half was an even contest, with both sides creating opportunities.

Despite both teams pushing hard, the match remained locked at 0-0 at halftime.

Both teams continued to create chances in the third quarter, but China A found the breakthrough with a field goal.

The Black Sticks thought they had equalised through a penalty corner variation, only for the goal to be overturned following a review for dangerous play.

New Zealand tried desperately to find an equaliser, but China A held firm to seal the one goal victory.

A fourth place finish isn’t what the Black Sticks would have hoped for as they build towards the Nations Cup at home in June.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2026 – Cangio Tourist City Corporation, the developer of Vinhomes Green Paradise, and Marriott International have signed a strategic partnership agreement to introduce two of the world’s leading hotel brands,The Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Hotel, to Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio (Ho Chi Minh City). With a combined scale of approximately 700 rooms and high-end resort villas, The Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Hotel will not only expand the project’s portfolio of prestigious hotel brands but also reinforce world-class luxury service standards, befitting the stature of a global “urban wonder“.

The Ritz-Carlton Can Gio is located at a prime riverside site in the heart of the Vinhomes Green Paradise coastal mega-urban area and is expected to open in Q4 2027.

The hotel will feature 9 floors and approximately 250 keys, with room sizes ranging from 50 to 500 sqm, including suites and pool villas. Facilities include six restaurants and bars, two swimming pools, a spa integrating hydrotherapy and thermal wellness, meditation spaces, a fitness center, beauty salon, and the Ritz Kids club. The event space will comprise three function rooms totaling approximately 540 sqm, catering to a wide range of meetings and events.

Can Gio Marriott Hotel, located adjacent to the opera house and near the golf course and sports complex within the coastal mega-urban area, is also scheduled to open in Q4 2027.

The hotel will rise 25 floors and offer approximately 450 rooms ranging from 40 to 160 sqm, including premium suites. Amenities include an M Club Lounge, a system of restaurants and bars, a swimming pool, Quan Spa, and a sports club. Additionally, the hotel will provide approximately 1,570 sqm of meeting and event space, including two ballrooms, catering to large-scale events.

Together, The Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Hotel will deliver approximately 700 rooms, featuring a diverse range of accommodations, from standard rooms and suites to villas, supported by a comprehensive ecosystem of premium amenities and world-class five-star infrastructure.

The development and operational collaboration will be managed by Vinpearl, a member of Vingroup. With extensive experience in luxury hospitality, Vinpearl will oversee and directly implement operations to ensure the effective performance of these international hotel brands, contributing to the positioning of luxury service standards commensurate with a global “urban wonder” such as Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio.

Mr. Gautam Bhandari, Chief Development Officer for Asia Pacific (excluding China) at Marriott International, stated:“Marriott International’s long-standing partnership with Vingroup has helped shape Vietnam’s hospitality market over the years. We currently operate 11 hotels with Vinpearl, a member of Vingroup, and have several projects under development. With Vingroup’s visionary approach, commitment to excellence, and strong core values, we are confident that this project will not only deliver high-quality accommodations but also elevate the destination and create sustainable value for the local economy.”

Ms. Ngo Thi Huong, Chief Executive Officer of Vinpearl Joint Stock Company, added:“Our collaboration with Marriott International to bring The Ritz-Carlton, Can Gio and Can Gio Marriott Hotel represents a strategic step toward introducing global luxury service standards to Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio. Beyond developing internationally branded hotels, we aim to build a fully integrated service ecosystem, enhancing customer experience, strengthening operational capabilities, and aligning service quality with global standards, so that residents and visitors can enjoy international-level experiences right here in Vietnam.”

Previously, Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio partnered with IHG Hotels & Resorts to develop four hotels with a total of 1,000 rooms. The presence of international brands such as IHG Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International not only expands accommodation capacity but also significantly enhances the project’s ability to attract global visitors. This forms a critical foundation for the coastal mega-urban area to elevate experiences and move closer to its goal of becoming a world-class residential, tourism, and resort destination.

Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio is a 2,870-hectare coastal mega-urban development located in the southeastern part of Ho Chi Minh City, featuring three sides facing the sea and adjacent to a 75,000-hectare biosphere reserve recognized by UNESCO. The project benefits from major infrastructure connectivity, including the Ben Thanh – Can Gio high-speed railway (reducing travel time to 13 minutes from central Ho Chi Minh City), the Can Gio Bridge, the Rung Sac – Ben Luc – Long Thanh interchange, and the Can Gio – Vung Tau coastal expressway.

A distinctive feature of the project is its integrated Green – Smart – Ecological & Regenerative model aligned with leading global ESG++ standards. Alongside its spectacular natural setting and green living environment, the development offers a synchronized amenity system and unique highlights, including the 122-hectare VinWonders theme park featuring the world’s tallest artificial snow mountain and nearly 200 attractions; the 800-hectare Paradise Lagoon; Landmark Harbour international port; the 5,000-seat Song Xanh Opera House; an international-standard golf course; and a portfolio of five-star accommodation. These elements form the foundation for Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio to emerge as a new “urban wonder”, with the capacity to welcome up to 40 million visitors annually in the future.

https://vinhomes.vn/en

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

• US$8 billion ultra-premium integrated commercial property debuts new lifestyle destination located along Shanghai’s iconic Huangpu River waterfront
• New “Enjoy Life” brand theme highlights premium tenant mix of designer retail and lifestyle brands

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2026 – Hongkong Land Holdings Limited (“Hongkong Land” or the “Company”) marked a key milestone with the opening of Phase Two at Westbund Central, its flagship ultra-premium integrated commercial property in Shanghai’s Xuhui District that is one of the largest mixed-use developments in the world. This stage of the US$8 billion project’s rollout is complemented by its new “Enjoy Life” brand theme, reinforcing the district’s role as a dynamic environment for work, living and leisure.

The Phase Two commercial launch introduces a diverse mix of global first stores, designer labels, and flagship concepts that reinforce Westbund Central’s position as a new downtown in Shanghai. New tenants include international icons such as Issey Miyake, the multi-brand boutique SND, Leica Store & Gallery, artisanal Swiss chocolatier House of Läderach, and design houses HAY and Paulmann.

With a planned total gross floor area of more than 1.7 million square metres, Westbund Central is the Company’s largest-ever single investment and brings together a diversified commercial mix that includes more than 600 international retail and lifestyle brands, 180 food and beverage operators, more than 50,000 square metres dedicated to cultural and art facilities, as well as 650,000 square metres of premium Grade A offices that will house occupiers including globally renowned companies such as adidas and lululemon.

While Phase One centred on food and beverage, cafes, and sports and leisure facilities, Phase Two enhances the district’s prestige by focusing on designer lifestyle brands. Looking ahead, Phase Three will introduce a cluster of global luxury maison flagships to further boost the district’s international appeal. Around 12,000 square metres of retail space is already open, with an additional 30,000 square metres opening within this year.

Michael T. Smith, Group Chief Executive of Hongkong Land, said: “Westbund Central is a fresh and dynamic example of our strategic focus to develop ultra-premium, integrated commercial districts in Asia’s leading gateway cities. As Hongkong Land’s largest single investment to date and our flagship China property, Westbund Central is one of the most significant projects in the company’s portfolio and designed to deliver sustained long-term value.”

Stuart Grant, Chief Executive of Westbund Central, said: “Westbund Central is being shaped as Shanghai’s new downtown and we are incredibly proud to build one of the largest mixed-use properties in the world that redefines modern urban living. We are creating a globally renowned ‘city within a city’ where the finest quality office, retail, residential and hospitality components converge in a single vibrant destination where people can truly enjoy life.”

As further phases are delivered, Westbund Central will continue to reinforce its position as one of Shanghai’s most significant integrated commercial districts and a cornerstone of the company’s long-term growth strategy in its portfolio.

Hashtag: #HongkongLand

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

• Building upon its expertise in Europe, Rhenus is expanding its road freight solutions in Asia Pacific
• The strategic move will see dedicated expertise and resources to better support the region’s demand for fast and reliable freight transportation options
  

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2026 – With demand for road freight services across Asia Pacific rising, leading global logistics provider Rhenus Group has announced plans to further expand its road freight operations in the region. As part of its broader regional growth strategy, the company is strengthening cross-border trucking across Southeast Asia and key corridors between Greater China and Southeast Asia. Building on this, it is continuously integrating road with air and ocean freight, while scaling local distribution, sourcing and leveraging existing free trade zone warehousing capabilities.

As part of this expansion, Rhenus is investing in local capabilities to support individual market needs including the recent establishment of its Bukit Kayu Hitam Border Office in Malaysia, with full customs capabilities to support smoother cross-border movements.

Prem Anand Anandaverl, Regional Director of Cross Border Trucking Asia, Rhenus Logistics notes, “Our goal is to provide a seamless connectivity to the global network by reinforcing a comprehensive road freight service and continue to help businesses to move their goods across Asia efficiently and compliantly. Road Freight is playing an increasingly important role in building a resilient supply chain especially in this region.”

Asia Pacific to see high demand for road freight services

The global freight trucking market size ^[1] is projected to be valued at US$2.74 Tn in 2025 and is set to reach US$3.70 Tn by 2032, growing at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 3.9%. Asia Pacific remains a key growth driver, supported by expanding industrial output, a large consumer base, and rapidly developing logistics infrastructure enabling both domestic and cross-border trade.

Achieving Sustainable Growth through Road Freight: Consistency, Scalability and Increasing Customer Value

With more than 150 owned and partner road freight locations in Europe, Rhenus currently operates in over 15 countries through a well-established network. The expansion of road freight services in Asia Pacific will enable the company to further integrate its’ end-to-end supply chain solutions, combining road freight solutions with air and ocean services to deliver more flexible and customized logistics solutions globally.

Ongoing investments in multilingual local teams, dedicated border infrastructure, and best practice transport management systems will support seamless cross-border operations, stronger customs and regulatory expertise across markets.

Leveraging its rail connections between Greater China and Europe, alongside a robust multimodal network spanning sea, land, and rail, the company aims to provide customers with greater flexibility and scalability in response to evolving supply chain demands. The company is also working with partners to improve CO₂ tracking and explore alternative fuel options, supporting more sustainable road freight operations.

Hashtag: #Rhenus

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Infant milk formula exporter a2 Milk has recalled three batches of Synlait-manufactured a2 Platinum infant milk formula in the United States due to the presence of cereulide.

Cereulide was a heat-stable toxin produced by some strains of the bacterium Bacillus cereus which could cause nausea and vomiting – symptoms typically developed within 30 minutes to six hours of ingestion.

a2 Milk told the NZX on Monday, the recall related to a “relatively small” quantity of about 63,078 tins in the US – over 16,000 of which had been sold to consumers.

No confirmed incidents of infant illness or harm had been reported to the company.

The impacted batches were distributed through a2MC’s website, Amazon and Meijer stores as part of Operation Fly Formula.

Chief executive David Bortolussi said the recall does not impact infant milk formula products sold in New Zealand, Australia, China and other markets .

He said the food safety and quality of its products was its “highest priority”.

“For this reason, we have voluntarily recalled three batches of our a2 Platinum USA label infant milk formula sold only in the US which had previously been discontinued with no products currently available for sale.”

The probable source of cereulide is an ingredient in the product and the recall was initiated after cereulide was detected through additional testing of the product following the release of New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) industry update and expectations for managing cereulide on April 15 with application retrospectively for New Zealand infant formula manufacturers.

a2 Milk said it was communicating with US Food and Drug Administration with respect to the recall and has released guidance to its United States consumers.

The recall is not expected to impact a2’s financial results, with total infant milk formula sales in the US accounting less than 0.1 percent of its total sales revenue.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

BAODING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 May 2026 – During the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, GWM hosted a Tech Day event, opening its global safety and testing complex to hundreds of international journalists and overseas dealers, who engaged in in-depth exchanges with engineers. No staged demos, no polished pitches—only real engineering: black electromagnetic absorbers, a 120ton rotating crash barrier, and an ORA 5 undergoing a 60 km/h side impact in full view of witnesses.

Frontier Tech in Focus: Global Media Eagerly Inquire About Rollout Timelines

During the Tech Day event, technical experts from GWM delivered in-depth technical analyses on all-scenario intelligent driving, next-generation smart cockpits, and the Hi4 powertrain family. The smart cockpit, powered by the Coffee OS 3 system, stood out with its five defining qualities – ” Good-looking, Easy to Use, Fun to Use, Pleasant to Hear, and Highly Intelligent.” GWM’s driver assistance system also earned strong acclaim for its forward-looking design and broad adaptability, particularly its thorough consideration of global regulations, local driving habits, scenario adaptability, and data localization strategies–a clear reflection of GWM’s global R&D vision. Meanwhile, the Hi4 powertrain family impressed attendees with its all-scenario capability and exceptional performance. Throughout the event, media representatives from various countries and regions eagerly inquired about the local rollout plans and timelines for these cutting-edge technologies.

A Foundation of Self-Reliance: Power and Validation Built In-House

Technical confidence starts with self‑developed power. Based on its Forest Ecosystem architecture, GWM has independently created 4.0T V8 and 3.0T V6 engines plus advanced diesel hybrid systems. To prove safety rather than just claim it, GWM built China’s first independent comprehensive proving ground, high‑altitude simulation lab, and climatic wind tunnel, forming a full‑life‑cycle validation system for global markets.

Launched in 2025, the GWM Safety Lab represents a 510‑million‑yuan investment across 57,000 square meters, serving as the core of a nearly 10‑billion‑yuan testing ecosystem. Global media experienced the facility with no guided script, seeing authentic validation rather than curated showcases.

Core Labs: Engineering Excellence Behind Every Detail

Inside the EMC Chamber, full shielding and wave‑absorbing materials enable 360‑degree testing with all electronic systems active. GWM’s internal standard limits electromagnetic radiation to less than one‑fifth of the national legal requirement. The 30‑million‑yuan NVH anechoic chamber uses a double‑layer room‑in‑room structure to reach 20 dB.

The 300‑million‑yuan climatic wind tunnel covers 2,800 square meters, simulating ‑40°C to 60°C, 5%–95% humidity, and winds up to 250 km/h. “To use the same calibration in the Middle East and Northern Europe without validation is gambling, not engineering,” a senior engineer noted,”Every GWM vehicle passes extreme cold, heat, and humidity tests before market launch. “

Crash Test Center: Where Every Millisecond Defines Safety

GWM’s crash lab supports Euro NCAP, C‑NCAP, and FMVSS standards. In the Multi‑Angle Crash Zone, the high-speed camera captures 4,000 frames per second, allowing it to clearly record the trajectory of a bullet’s movement. In this way, engineers can split the 0.1-second crash into hundreds of parts and observe and analyze them frame by frame. Below the track, a glass‑covered camera pit captures underbody deformation in real time.

The 120‑ton moving deformable barrier withstands a 3.5‑ton vehicle crashing at 80 km/h. In the laboratory. It is possible to simulate vehicle collisions with guardrails on both sides of the highway, as well as full-scenario drop and rollover conditions for both left-hand drive and right-hand drive vehicles. “Rollover risk is deadly, so we test more rigorously than any other brand,” an engineer explained.

The AEB pre‑collision track simulates real‑world “brake then crash” conditions to ensure restraints and airbags work in sync. The New Energy Safety Zone manages thermal runaway with automated submergence in 30 seconds and AI firefighting for severe cases. GWM’s 34 high‑precision crash dummies include $1.7‑million THOR units and $1.1‑million WorldSID side‑impact units. “Dummies are not props—they define life‑saving boundaries,” engineers stressed.

ORA 5 Euro NCAP Test: Five-Star Safety Ready for Europe

In the on-site side impact test referencing Euro NCAP, the ORA 5 destined for Europe was struck at 60 km/h with one adult and two child dummies. The vehicle moved 5 meters, activated hazard lights, showed zero fuel leakage, and kept doors closed for occupant protection.

With 75% high‑strength steel, 2,000‑MPa submarine‑grade A‑pillars, 1,500‑MPa door beams, full‑coverage airbags, and adaptive seatbelts, the ORA 5 is on track for a Euro NCAP five‑star safety rating.

Strategic Vision: Trust, Safety and Tech Sovereignty

By opening its labs transparently, GWM builds global trust with tangible engineering rather than marketing. Safety validation clears regional barriers for Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and North America, enabling synchronized global launches.

Full‑stack self‑developed systems, industry‑first rotating barriers, and exclusive rollover testing mark GWM’s shift from adopting global tools to defining global standards.

As one senior dealer commented: “This is exactly what we needed to see.”

GWM’s global safety promise is clear: safety built on data, proven in labs, trusted worldwide.

Hashtag: #GWM

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

MILAN, ITALY – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 May 2026 – As the dynamic interplay of light and shadow along the Putuo District section of Suzhou Creek in Shanghai, known as the “Half Marathon Suzhou Creek,” met the artistic atmosphere of Milan Cathedral, a spring dialogue spanning continents opened warmly as part of the “Shanghai in My Mind · Spring Shanghai” pop-up event series in Milan. On April 25, the “Putuo Day” themed event was held at a newsstand in Largo Augusto, Milan. Centered on the theme “Half Marathon Suzhou Creek · Garden of Light,” the event offered local residents an immersive experience of the distinctive charm of Shanghai’s Putuo District.

Light as a Bridge: A Garden of Light in Miniature

Centered on the theme of “Garden of Light,” the pop-up event blended Putuo’s cultural heritage with Milan’s artistic aesthetic, transforming the compact newsstand into four themed spaces: the Light of Development, the Light of Vitality, the Light of Warmth and the Light of Craftsmanship. Together, they created a refined and richly layered exhibition of urban aesthetics.

The Garden Walk zone conveyed the “Light of Vitality,” with artificial greenery recreating the energy of the Suzhou Creek waterfront. Cultural and creative products from the “Half Marathon Suzhou Creek” collection, including sand-art magnets, liquid-motion coasters and custom scarves, added to the lively atmosphere. The Interactive Experience zone embodied the “Light of Warmth,” linking stamp collecting, message sharing and film screenings to create a welcoming space where every visitor could take part in the cross-cultural exchange. The Craftsmanship Heritage zone interpreted the “Light of Craftsmanship,” featuring century-old Hero pens, intangible cultural heritage bamboo weaving and pieces from the Shanghai Mint, highlighting the brilliance of Eastern craftsmanship through light and shadow. The Light and Shadow Window zone represented the “Light of Development.” Warm light passed through suspended golden bookmarks, casting colorful reflections across the walls and floor, echoing the stained-glass windows of Milan Cathedral.

At the event, local residents and visitors posed for photos with light-and-shadow bookmarks, wrote heartfelt messages on postcards, and captured joyful moments with instant cameras. They collected commemorative stamps as keepsakes, experienced the elegance of Eastern writing with Hero pens, and watched the VR film “HI, This Is Half Marathon Suzhou Creek” for an immersive introduction to Putuo. The pop-up event transcended barriers of language and distance, bringing the urban charm of Putuo to people in Milan through experiences that were tangible, engaging and memorable.

Spring Echoes: Suzhou Creek’s Story Continues in Light

The “Spring Shanghai” themed pop-up was not only a city showcase in Milan, but also a dialogue between two cities across Europe and Asia. To extend the memory of this celebration of light, Putuo has created a “Garden of Light” themed corner at the Half Marathon Suzhou Creek Café & Cultural Creative Store, allowing cultural exchanges between the two places to continue to grow.

Inside the store, white magnolias and azaleas feature throughout the décor, symbolizing friendship and dialogue between the two cities. Decorative decals inspired by the stained-glass windows of Milan Cathedral cast colorful patterns of light across the floor, creating an aesthetic connection between Shanghai and Milan. Messages from visitors collected during the Milan event, handwritten postcards and instant photos will be displayed in artistic installations, including a corridor of greetings and a light-and-shadow photo wall reflecting a blend of Chinese and Italian culture. Limited-edition light-and-shadow bookmarks and other themed merchandise will also be introduced, while messages written by Shanghai residents in response will be compiled into a collection, creating a two-way bond of mutual goodwill.

From Milan to Suzhou Creek, Putuo used light as a bridge to continue the friendship between China and Italy across the two cities, while enabling more people to see and understand the story of “Half Marathon Suzhou Creek.”

Vibrant Putuo: Half Marathon Suzhou Creek in Full Flow

Putuo District is actively participating in China’s Yangtze River Delta integration strategy. It supports the development of the Shanghai–Nanjing Industrial Innovation Belt, advances the “one belt, one core, one city” framework, and promotes a vision of a coordinated innovation zone and a high-quality Half Marathon Suzhou Creek area. A digital-driven upgrade of the bulk commodity trade supply chain is currently taking shape. Along the Suzhou Creek waterfront, ecological landscapes are increasingly being transformed into spaces for industrial development. The Zhenru sub-center is speeding up its digital transformation, combining heritage with modern urban functions and integrating cultural and commercial activity. Taopu Smart City is emerging as a hub for R&D and advanced manufacturing, as it moves toward becoming a model for integrated urban-industrial development. Together, these developments are helping drive Putuo’s high-quality growth.

Industrial growth brings urban vitality, and a vibrant city improves people’s quality of life. Building on a solid foundation of high-quality development, Putuo is shaping a livable and business-friendly district defined by energy and human warmth. It is both a hub for sports and an appealing place to live. Major events such as the Suzhou Creek Half Marathon, dragon boat races, the 10km Elite Race and the National Curling Championships showcase the district’s dynamism and competitive spirit. Daily life offers a different rhythm. TOP Central Park provides expansive green space, the RV Music Festival draws crowds with live performances, M50 Creative Park remains a center for arts and culture, and Hong Shou Fang blends Shanghai-style charm with the atmosphere of neighborhood street life. Putuo is working to build a district-wide “15-minute community living circle,” giving residents convenient access to education, healthcare, eldercare and retail services. It is advancing child-friendly urban development, expanding the silver economy to better serve seniors, and creating homes and support services for the city’s builders and frontline workers. Through these efforts, openness, inclusiveness and warmth have become defining features of the district.

To learn more about Spring Shanghai and Spring Putuo, please watch the video here: https://youtu.be/196Fmmbrsio.

Hashtag: #PUTUO

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

SANYA, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2026 – The ninth day of competition marked the conclusion of the sixth Asian Beach Games in Sanya, bringing the multi-sport event to a close. Gathering over 1,600 athletes from 45 countries and regions across Asia, the Games not only delivered high-level competition but also offered a window into the new phase of openness following the island-wide special customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port (Hainan FTP).

The smooth staging of the Games demonstrated Sanya’s capacity to host major international events. From competition venues stretching across 22 kilometers of coastline, to 22 designated hotels accommodating domestic and international guests, and the support of 4,680 volunteers, as well as touristic and cultural engagement activities, the host city’s organization and services received broad recognition. Abdulaziz Baeshen, Secretary General and CEO at the Saudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee, said, “The organization of this Asian Beach Games has been of a very high standard, once again demonstrating China’s outstanding capability in hosting major international sporting events.”

The success of the Games was underpinned by the policies of the Hainan FTP. Benefiting from visa-free access for citizens of 86 countries and event-specific facilitation measures, cross-border travel was efficient and seamless. Qatari athlete Ahmed Elmeniawy said, “The entry procedures were extremely convenient. It took less than two minutes to complete all arrival formalities — a truly excellent experience.” An official from the Saudi Olympic Committee also noted that the FTP policies and visa-free arrangements facilitated participation by delegations and promoted bilateral sports exchanges.

During the Games, Sanya launched a series of cultural tourism activities and consumer incentive packages centered on a “spectating plus vacation” model, boosting the integration of sports and tourism consumption. At the same time, the Asian Beach Games served as a platform for exchanges among Asian countries. During his visit to Hainan, Thomas Bach, Honorary President of the International Olympic Committee, said he felt “the unity of Asia.” Raja Randhir Singh, President of the Olympic Council of Asia, noted that despite differences in language and traditions, a shared passion for sport brings people together.

Although the Games have concluded, openness and cooperation continue. The event has provided valuable experience for the Hainan FTP in hosting major international events and demonstrated China’s continued efforts to expand high-level opening-up. The FTP will continue to deepen international exchanges and cooperation with an open and inclusive approach.

Hashtag: #6thAsianBeachGame #Sanya #China

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2026 – AI for Global Civilization: China-Singapore Dialogue was held in Singapore on April 28. The event gathered around 100 participants, including experts, scholars, and representatives from Chinese and Singaporean academic institutions, cultural organizations, as well as technology and cultural enterprises. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on China-Singapore digital industry cooperation and how digital and intelligent technologies empower inter-civilizational mutual learning. They also jointly showcased innovative achievements and frontier practices of both sides in the integrated field of culture and technology.

Opening remarks were delivered by Yuan Lin, Executive Assistant to the President of the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies, and Wang Donghai, Associate Director of NUS Enterprise. Keynote speeches were delivered by Cai Yiyu, Professor at Nanyang Technological University; Director of the Computer-Aided Engineering Labs and The Strategic Research Program on Virtual Reality; Co-President of Association of Global Technomics Education and Exchange; Cui Kai, Director of the Digital Culture Promotion Department, Center for International Cultural Communication, China International Communications Group (CICG); and Yang Jianwei, Visiting Professor at the National University of Singapore.

Yuan Lin stated that the rapid development of artificial intelligence technology has injected new momentum into China-Singapore cultural exchanges. He stressed the importance of innovating cultural expression forms empowered by digital intelligence, upholding a correct value orientation in technological application, deepening people-to-people exchanges enabled by smart technologies, and actively exploring the profound value of intelligent technologies in advancing cross-cultural understanding.

Wang Donghai pointed out that it is essential to prioritize the integration of technological applications with social needs. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence to build bridges for civilizational exchange helps enhance cross-cultural understanding, enabling technology to better serve humanity and drive social progress.

Cai Yiyu noted that Singapore is forging ahead in cutting-edge fields including semiconductors, aerospace and artificial intelligence, opening up broad prospects for bilateral cooperation between China and Singapore. He emphasized that digital and intelligent technologies can be harnessed to revitalize and inherit traditional culture via youthful, trendy formats, thereby further deepening scientific, technological and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

Cui Kai stated that intelligent imaging technology is profoundly reshaping the logic of cross-cultural narrative. Digital content creation is not merely about keeping pace with technological advancement; more importantly, it should take emotional resonance as the bond to break down cultural barriers, foster in-depth empathy, mutual learning and appreciation among global civilizations, and enable more outstanding civilizational achievements to be seen, understood and respected worldwide.

Yang Jianwei noted that artificial intelligence is becoming an important vehicle for inter-civilizational mutual learning, while cultural differences remain a core obstacle to cross-cultural communication. He advocated for the innovative and rational use of artificial intelligence in the future to eliminate prejudices and enhance civilizational understanding through technological power.

In the Case Sharing Session, guest speakers included Lisa Meng, Head of Singapore of Tencent Cloud International; Koh Chin Yee, Managing Director of Singapore Eye; Bai Yu, Director and Partner of LAiPIC; Hu Chengchen, Founder & CEO of ClariPpi (Singapore); Jane Zhao, SVP and Head of Global Business at Mininglamp Technology; and Jerry Tuo, AI Technology Director of Red Fun Planet. They delivered insightful presentations on the application prospects of artificial intelligence in content production as well as inter-civilizational mutual learning and exchange.

The participating guests agreed that artificial intelligence has brought revolutionary changes to the intelligent production, targeted communication and immersive presentation of cultural content. China and Singapore boast strong complementarity in digital infrastructure and cultural resources. Going forward, the two sides may deepen cooperation in joint research and development and scenario-based application, develop benchmark cultural-technology products and integrated solutions tailored for Southeast Asia, and jointly advance the high-quality development of the digital cultural industry.

This event was jointly hosted by the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies and the Center for International Cultural Communication,CICG, with Nanyang Technological University and other cultural and business exchange institutions participating as supporting partners.

Hashtag: #ACCWS

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2026 – Since June 2021, the central committees of China’s non-Communist political parties and non-Party personages have been entrusted by the Communist Party of China (CPC[1] ) Central Committee with a five-year democratic oversight over the environmental protection of the Yangtze River. Democratic supervision extends from the glaciers on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau to the East China Sea, covering the whole Yangtze basin. It has evolved into a practical tool for Yangtze conservation, helping to better protect the river while serving the people.

Agricultural non-point source pollution is a globally challenging problem for Yangtze ecological protection, as it is mostly hidden from view. During an inspection trip to Jiangxi’s Poyang Lake region in 2023, Zhao Lixin, a non-party personage and honorary director of Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences , precisely pinpointed the key pain point: excessive total phosphorus in the water caused by nitrogen and phosphorus runoff from nearby farmland.

The inspection team went beyond identifying frontline issues to putting their expertise into practice on site. In response to local climate conditions and farming patterns, the team integrated and advanced an optimized set of agricultural management and treatment technologies. As a result, they successfully reduced surface runoff losses of nitrogen and phosphorus from rice paddies by 40 percent.

Over the past five years, the non-Party personages have submitted five democratic oversight reports and produced nearly 20 special research reports. Many of their recommendations have been incorporated into special programs of China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment.

Hashtag: #ChinaNewsService

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

With Leisure Plus, Redefining Hong Kong’s Bathroom Experience Through AI
Smart Toilets and Bathroom Cabinets for a New Era of Intelligent Living

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2026 – As urban life in Hong Kong places growing emphasis on efficiency, health and space utilisation, a truly future-facing bathroom brand has officially arrived. Leisure Plus Building Products Company Limited, which has been rooted in Hong Kong for nearly three decades, has officially announced its appointment as the Hong Kong sole agent for global bathroom leader JOMOO. Together, the two companies are bringing world-renowned premium smart bathroom products to the Hong Kong market, using JOMOO’s leading AI-powered digital technology to deliver innovative bathroom solutions tailored to the city’s unique living environment. This partnership not only marks the arrival of a heavyweight international brand in Hong Kong’s bathroom market, but also signals a new AI-driven era for local homes and commercial spaces.

For Hong Kong people, the bathroom has never been a purely functional space. Within a limited footprint, it carries cleansing, grooming, care, storage, and the rhythm of how each day begins and ends. Space is compact, humidity is high, storage must be efficient, and expectations for the user experience keep rising. JOMOO’s arrival in Hong Kong answers the city’s pursuit of efficiency, comfort, health and aesthetics with world-leading AI bathroom technology. The brand is also introducing several smart toilets and innovative bathroom mirror cabinets for their Hong Kong debut, showing how bathroom AI can move from concept into daily life and become a real part of improving everyday living.

Leisure Plus Building Products said: “Bringing JOMOO to Hong Kong reflects Leisure Plus’s deep insight into the future of living. We see Hong Kong’s premium bathroom market moving beyond traditional hardware into a new stage that combines smart technology, health management, space integration and sensory experience. By partnering with JOMOO, Leisure Plus is bringing globally leading AI smart bathroom technology to Hong Kong, not only adding an international-calibre brand to the market, but also redefining daily life through technology, enabling the bathroom to evolve from a single-function space into a core living space that delivers comfort, efficiency and wellness value.”

JOMOO: Reshaping the Bathroom Experience with AI and Unrivalled Global Leadership

Founded in 1990, JOMOO has long ranked No.1 in China’s bathroom industry and among the world’s top three. With technology-driven bathroom living at its core, the brand combines R&D, intelligent manufacturing and innovative design, and is committed to redefining premium living through AI. As the pioneer behind the “AI BATH” scene-based brand, JOMOO breaks away from conventional product thinking with pioneering motorised flip-and-discharge cleansing technology that significantly improves performance while achieving library-level quietness. Combined with AI robotic self-cleaning and contact-free health sensing technologies, it deeply integrates artificial intelligence, biosensing and everyday bathroom use, delivering more proactive and thoughtful health support for users.

In this high-profile move into Hong Kong, JOMOO is guided by the strategy “Tech Bathroom, Global JOMOO”, bringing not only products but also a lifestyle upgrade powered by AI. Tailored to Hong Kong’s compact and humid living environment, the brand offers smart, space-saving and health-enhancing bathroom solutions, helping lift the overall standard of bathroom living in the city.

From Smart Toilets to Bathroom Cabinets: A Powerful New AI Bathroom Lineup Arrives in Hong Kong

G06 and G08 Smart Digital Toilets

In Hong Kong’s space-constrained homes, bathroom spaces often face multiple challenges, including limited room, humidity and restricted functionality. Tailored specifically for Hong Kong homes, JOMOO is introducing two flagship smart toilets and one smart bathroom cabinet that use AI-powered digital technology to resolve the tension between space and functionality in one stroke, bringing consumers a world-leading premium smart bathroom experience. The G06 Smart Digital Toilet is an entry choice that balances intelligence, comfort and practicality, while the G08 Smart Digital Toilet comes with an upgraded digital display and a more comprehensive smart feature set, taking comfort, convenience and technology to a new level.

To address the common problem of compact bathrooms in Hong Kong, both products are equipped with features such as “triple foot-sensing control”, “smart wireless control” and “auto-flush on departure”. Users do not need to twist sideways or make unnecessary movements, and can enjoy a freer, smoother toilet experience even in narrower bathroom spaces. With an IPX4 water-resistance rating, the products also handle Hong Kong’s humid environment with ease, delivering reassurance and durability in everyday use.

Product highlights:
– Triple foot-sensing control with automatic lid opening for elegant use even in narrow spaces
– AI smart temperature sensing and adjustment for lasting comfort
– High-definition digital display showing water and seat temperature at a glance
– Multiple cleansing modes with antibacterial nozzle and warm-air drying system
– Soft-glow night light and backup flushing during power outages
– IPX4 high-efficiency water resistance for humid environments

Pricing:
– G06 Smart Digital Toilet:
Original price HK$5,980; promotional price HK$4,980

– G08 Smart Digital Toilet:
Original price HK$8,580; promotional price HK$5,980

Revolutionary Smart Bathroom Cabinet: VERA Jinci Series

Addressing the core issue of limited bathroom space in Hong Kong’s mainstream residential developments, JOMOO will soon launch the suspended VERA Jinci Series Smart Bathroom Cabinet. Powered by AI technology, it integrates three major functions – beauty-product preservation, dedicated wash care, and smart mirror features – so that every inch of space delivers greater value and daily routines become more precise, smoother and more relaxed, completely reinventing the bathroom experience.

Product highlights:
– 998x532x1900mm suspended golden-ratio structure with zero hygiene blind spots
– Built-in cosmetics fridge with AI-controlled constant temperature and humidity for skincare freshness
– Built-in 0.8kg mini drum washer with six cleansing modes tailored for small items
– Mirror with touch-control natural-light ambience and one-touch defogging
– High colour-rendering mirror for true-to-tone makeup application
– Moisture-resistant eco solid-wood body suited to Hong Kong’s maritime climate

The VERA Jinci Series Smart Bathroom Cabinet is scheduled to officially launch in Hong Kong in mid-2026. Consumers will be able to experience its intelligent features firsthand at JOMOO’s Hong Kong experience store. (Price to be announced)

https://leisureplushk.com/

Hashtag: #JOMOO #LeisurePlus #SmartBathroom

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

A new national wool auction, closing a chapter for Hawke’s Bay, was off to a subdued but promising start in Christchurch this week.

The hammer went down on more than 9000 wool bales sourced from across both North and South Islands on Thursday, earning $6.6 million across two auctions held by brokers PGG Wrightson (PGG) and farmer cooperative Wools of New Zealand.

More than 4800 bales were sold by PGG making $3.4m, while Wools of New Zealand sold more than 4300 for $3.2m.

PGG held its final Napier auction in mid-April after 140 years there, as the rural firm sought to consolidate and reduce duplication across the auction system. Wools of New Zealand followed suit.

General manager of wool for PGG Rachel Shearer said the support team of 20 in Napier – whom she described in January as “disappointed” by the decision – was expanding to help manage the new Ōtautahi auction.

“The decision to consolidate to Christchurch has been really difficult,” she said.

“It’s been a long time coming and we’ve been hearing from buyers for many years, as well as the wider industry, that there’s a lot of duplication happening across the industry.

“Part of our strategy is to work with others across the wool industry to help consolidate, to take out that duplication in the industry, to create efficiencies.”

Small, raw samples of North Island-sourced wool will now be shipped down to Ōtautahi for buyers to experience in the wool store, instead of the full bales, and scouring and storage will continue in Napier.

Shearer said growers either entered wool supply contracts, sold it directly or through auctions.

“Growers have options and we’re delighted to be able to offer them multiple options,” she said.

“We believe in the open cry system; it’s fast, it’s reliable, and buyers like it. But likewise, growers are able to promptly receive money for that.”

South Island auctioneer Dave Burridge said the firm wanted to create an “industry-good” hub in Christchurch, possibly with more players involved.

“There’s a lot of collaboration has gone on with other brokers to be able to come together in one centre,” he said.

“And there will be other support and options for other brokers to come in eventually, if they wish to be able to support the auction system.

“Because ultimately at the end of the day, the auction still sets the defaulting prices in New Zealand.”

Nearing the end of this current wool season, there were fewer bales were on offer in Ōtautahi than at this year’s earlier North and South Island sales combined. But there was good buyer turn-out and low pass-in rates.

Local buyers and agents represented companies from all over the world, including key markets China, Australia, and Europe.

Among others, the top buyers across Thursday’s sales were longstanding merchant Segard Masurel and the consolidated J S Brooksbank and NZ Wool Services International, New Zealand’s largest wool exporter.

Burridge said most of the bench were based in Christchurch, but there were other exporters scattered around the country too.

“What happens generally is that the New Zealand-based wool exporters will represent overseas principles of their inquiry, their demand and their purchasing books,” he said.

“But we do have a number of, in recent years, a lot of interest now coming from Australian major wool exporting houses, sending their representatives here to Christchurch, mainly through the fine wool season.

“They’ve also expressed interest now into the cross-bred sector, which we see .. as hosting a hub for all buyers to make it accessible.”

Burridge said prices were well above the levels of recent years, closer to the more recent pre-Covid 19 era peak around 2018, making it much more meaningful for growers.

Prices appeared to have turned a corner after difficult periods when the cost of shearing the sheep outweighed returns.

Burridge said prices were helped in part by improved sentiment in China recently.

“It’s mainly been a supply driven, but it’s also come at a time where China has revitalised.

“They’ve invested a lot of new plant and machinery in China to process wool as the textile hub of the world.”

He said there was promise for New Zealand wool with the signing of the new India-New Zealand free trade agreement just this month.

He added that the current global uncertainty around oil could favour the wool industry, over petroleum-based synthetic fibres.

Demand for traditional wool mediums like carpet, textiles and clothing were holding steady, but there were emerging opportunities in more niche products like woollen air filters, wool-derived pigments and woollen band aids, helping prices.

Cross industry platform Fusca indicated its strong wool indicator was at $5.54 per kilogram on Thursday, marking a ten-year high. Though some classes reached much higher levels in Napier and Ōtautahi recently.

Prices have been helped in part by steady domestic and international demand for wool, in the face of the declining national flock.

The 23 million or so sheep in New Zealand in the year to June, according to StatsNZ, was now a third off the peak of more than 70 million in the 1980s.

In future, a couple of cents per kilo may be shaved off the sheet further to go towards an industry wool levy, that was being considered again.

In 2003, farmers dissatisfied with the then New Zealand Wool Board voted out its governance and hence the levy, and attempts at a levy revival since have been unsuccessful.

Organisers expected the quantities at national auctions to increase as more wool came off farm in the warmer months, with a boom expected in July and August, particularly for merino.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 April 2026 – Auto China 2026 officially opened in Beijing. Under the theme of “Commitment & Integrity,” GWM unveiled its comprehensive global localization strategy for the first time. Backed by a compelling product lineup and cutting-edge technology, the GWM booth quickly became one of the most talked-about highlights of the show.

In his speech, GWM CEO Mu Feng emphasized that commitment and integrity are essential to accelerating high-quality growth. Guided by the GWM ONE (Guiyuan) philosophy, GWM continues to focus on real user needs, building solid product strength, technological excellence, and global brand value.

“Trust built on commitment and integrity is the strongest foundation in business,” Mu said. From a global perspective, he reaffirmed GWM’s commitment to deepening its roots in international markets, constructing a complete business ecosystem, and advancing what he called “ecosystem-based globalization.” Based on respect, long-term dedication, and genuine local cultivation, the company aims to forge lasting bonds of trust with users worldwide.

A Robust Portfolio Defining Elevated Product Excellence

At Auto China 2026, GWM showcased a comprehensive portfolio spanning six major lineups. From family SUVs to premium off-road vehicles, from urban commuting to long-distance motorcycle touring, the offerings are thoughtfully engineered to meet the diverse demands of today’s mainstream global consumers.

The WEY V9X is the first flagship model built on the GWM ONE S Platform. With its spacious six-seat layout, native AI agent, and Super Hi4 hybrid architecture, the V9X was developed not just for China, but as a global model for users worldwide.

The all-new TANK 700 made a strong impression with dual-flagship powertrain options: 3.0 Hi4-T and 2.0 Hi4-Z, making it the first body-on-frame model to integrate a VLA large model. The GWM P300 Hi4-T adopts the Hi4-T hardcore off-road super hybrid architecture, equipped with the Coffee OS 3 smart cockpit and high-power external discharge, delivering intelligence, reliability, and all-scenario adaptability. The P500 Hi4-T offers higher performance and greater luxury, ushering pickups into a new 4.0 era of “all-scenario, intelligent, and new energy.”

For key markets such as Australia and Thailand, where off-road culture is deeply rooted, these two models powerfully demonstrate GWM’s localized product expertise.

Designed for young users seeking individuality and a lifestyle-oriented mobility experience, the GWM ORA 5 Sport has already generated strong interest in Europe and Southeast Asia. During the auto show, overseas media also took part in in-depth test drives, allowing the product itself to prove GWM’s technological claims.

The entire SOUO Motorcycles lineup stole the spotlight with the world’s only 2,000 cc horizontally opposed eight-cylinder engine, redefining the premium long-distance motorcycle touring experience. Within GWM’s brand matrix, SOUO is the clearest expression of the brand’s “confidence in driving culture.”

Multidimensional Breakthroughs Highlight GWM’s Competitive Edge

Behind every compelling vehicle lies deep technological strength. The GWM technology zone drew large crowds eager to explore the company’s latest R&D advancements firsthand.

High-Performance V8: At the auto show, GWM introduced a new high-performance powertrain architecture headlined by an all-new in-house high-performance V8 engine — a major step forward in GWM’s powertrain capabilities. The company also showcased a world-class lightweight solution featuring extensive carbon fiber, as well as a newly adopted mid-engine layout designed to deliver exceptional handling performance.

GWM ONE Platform: In intelligent technology, GWM has built a formidable competitive moat across data, algorithms, and computing power. Its VLA assisted-driving large model and other intelligent technologies have received wide acclaim. The GWM ONE Platform supports five powertrain variants: PHEV, HEV, BEV, FCEV, and ICE. It enables one platform to support multiple powertrains, product categories, body styles, and global markets. Built on native AI, the platform integrates dual VLA large models and creates a native full-stack intelligent agent. It also uses AI to redefine safety logic, deeply fusing active and passive safety systems and reinforcing GWM’s commitment to safety.

GWM Hi4 has evolved into a comprehensive powertrain family tailored to different driving scenarios and user needs. The new-generation Hi4 technology continues to deliver “the performance of four-wheel drive with the energy consumption of two-wheel drive,” making advanced all-wheel-drive capability more accessible than ever. Hi4-Z is designed for general off-road scenarios, while Hi4-T is for hardcore off-road demands, each bringing distinctive strengths and further consolidating GWM’s leadership in off-road mobility.

GWM also presented its forward-looking diesel hybrid technology for demanding off-road and towing scenarios. The new powertrain is expected to cut urban fuel consumption by 15% while boosting acceleration performance by 40%.

Ecosystem-Based Globalization Builds Stronger Global Brand

At Auto China 2026, the GWM booth attracted large numbers of overseas visitors, media journalists, dealers, and investors, becoming a key platform connecting GWM with global users. The invitation of 1,500 media and dealers reflects GWM’s growing global appeal. According to some overseas media reports, Chinese automakers are reshaping industry norms through shorter R&D cycles, innovative concepts, and well-coordinated supply chains.

Amid rising complexities and tariff barriers, GWM is shifting its global strategy from simple product exports toward comprehensive local ecosystem development — an approach increasingly recognized across the industry. The future of global competition will no longer be about exporting products, but about the coordinated global expansion of technology standard-setting, supply chains, and brand value as an entire ecosystem.

At Auto China 2026, GWM showcased core technologies including the super V8, Hi4 Hybrid, and ADAS — technologies that will help the company participate in setting global industry standards and building a lasting brand moat.

Reliable products remain GWM’s promise to users. Accessible technology is its contribution to the industry. Ecosystem-based globalization is its commitment to local communities. GWM is taking root and growing in every aspect of its global operations — from technical architecture and product definition to manufacturing, after-sales service, compliance, and cultural integration. While the industry remains focused on overseas sales growth, GWM has already elevated “deep localization” as a new benchmark for global success, building a shared future with users through genuine, long-term commitment.

Hashtag: #GWM

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

BINZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 April 2026 – Boxing Port in Binzhou, east China’s Shandong Province, recently dispatched its first foreign trade shipment, with 300 tonnes of finished coil steel bound for the Philippines. The cargo departed for Manila Port, marking a breakthrough in the port’s international container business and opening a direct logistics channel from Boxing County and nearby areas to overseas markets.

The shipment, packed into 11 standard containers, was transported via inland waterways to Weifang Port for transshipment before continuing by sea to the Philippines. As Boxing Port’s first foreign trade operation, this launch provides local enterprises with a more efficient and cost-effective pathway to global markets.

As an inland river port, Boxing Port’s move into international shipping helps ease logistics bottlenecks and supports local industries in integrating into global supply chains. With more international routes in the pipeline and port functions steadily improving, the port is transitioning from a transport node into a regional hub for opening-up.

Looking ahead, Boxing Port will further expand its international shipping network, strengthen collaboration with customs authorities, shipping companies, and regional manufacturers, and promote the regular operation of foreign trade services. These efforts will inject new momentum into the global expansion of advanced manufacturing industries in northern Shandong and the broader Yellow River Basin.

Hashtag: #BinzhouInformationOffice

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

MIL OSI

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2026 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) held its 2025/2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 24 April 2026, where members reflected on a year of deliberate investment to strengthen member value and looked ahead to the priorities for the year ahead. The AGM also saw the election and appointment of the 2026 ISCA Council.

This year’s AGM saw members returning to Singapore to attend in person, alongside strong participation from those joining virtually.

A year of reset and strategic investment

In 2025, ISCA recorded its first operating deficit in a decade. This was the result of a deliberate decision to invest in areas that will strengthen the Institute’s long-term value to members and the profession. ISCA continues to maintain a strong financial position, with healthy reserves and a resilient balance sheet.

Rather than maintaining the status quo, ISCA undertook a year of reset and renewal, with spending focused on building stronger capabilities, growing the talent pipeline, expanding into new markets and building new growth engines.

ISCA emphasised that these investments were not made for growth alone, but more importantly, to better support members and provide greater member value in a rapidly evolving business and professional landscape.

Looking ahead, ISCA’s priorities remain clear: to deliver a better member experience, strengthen the talent pipeline and enhance its regional relevance. In 2026, the focus will be on ensuring that these investments translate into tangible and visible outcomes for members.

Expanding opportunities through internationalisation

At the AGM, ISCA Council and management addressed members’ questions on the institute’s plans to expand internationally. ISCA’s regional efforts are aimed at making it easier for members to access opportunities beyond Singapore. For members based in Singapore, this means more job opportunities, potential clients and partnerships across the region. For members based overseas, it means stronger local support and a more connected ISCA network where they live and work. ISCA CEO Ms Fann Kor cited an example of a member who had spent over 20 years building his career in China and was looking to return to Singapore. Through ISCA’s network, he was connected to a listed company seeking deep China experience, creating an opportunity that would otherwise have been difficult to access.

Progress across key areas

Despite being an investment year, ISCA reported progress across several areas:

• Membership grew to 43,500, with 11% growth and a 98.3% renewal rate
• ISCA House recorded 30,000 visits, with member satisfaction at 94%
• Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ) candidate numbers grew by 37%, including 400 overseas candidates
• ISCA expanded its regional footprint to 12 overseas chapters across 9 countries, with 6 overseas offices and 3 Professional Services Centres
• Chartered Accountants Lab (CA Lab) readership reached 39,000, across more than 30 countries
• ISCA developed 8 AI agents and implemented 180 system enhancements to improve access and member experience
• ISCA Academy delivered close to 199,000 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours, while reducing average cost per hour by 6% to $37.70
• ISCA Cares marked its 10-year milestone, disbursing $1.5 million and supporting nearly 500 students
• For the first time, SCAQ is being promoted beyond Singapore, making ISCA the first professional body in Asia to promote our national CA qualification overseas
• The SCAQ was embedded in an overseas university for the first time, at Nanjing University of Finance and Economics

2026 ISCA Council Lineup

The newly-elected Council Members are:

• Mr Alan Chang Chi Hsung, Managing Director, OA Assurance PAC
• Ms Chua Siew Hwi, Senior Vice President, Changi Airport Group
• Mr Quah Zheng Wei, CEO, Accredify Pte Ltd
• Ms Tan Aik Na, Senior Vice President (Administration), Nanyang Technological University
• Ms Yong Zen Yun, Partner, General Assurance Leader, Pricewaterhousecoopers LLP

The re-elected Council Members are:

• Ms Jocelyn Goh Chern Ni, Audit & Assurance Partner, BDO LLP
• Mr Koh Wee Kwang, Director, Nexia Singapore PAC
• Mr Lee Boon Teck, Regional Managing Partner, Audit & Assurance, Deloitte & Touche LLP

The Council also appointed Ms Juliet Teo Juet Sim, Joint Head, Portfolio Development Group and Head, Ecosystem Enablement, Temasek Singapore Pte Ltd. Ms Teo was appointed for her expertise on how the finance profession is evolving in response to changing business models, sustainability priorities and global economic trends.

Office bearers

At the first Council meeting following the AGM, the ISCA office bearers were appointed. Mr Teo Ser Luck, immediate past president, was also appointed as ISCA Adviser.

President: Mr Lee Boon Teck

Vice Presidents:

• Ms Ang Suat Ching
• Ms Jocelyn Goh

Treasurer: Mr Song Yeow Chung

Secretary: Ms Judy Ng

Leadership perspectives

The newly elected ISCA President, Mr Lee Boon Teck, said: “The investments we have made over the past year lay the groundwork for a stronger, more connected profession. Our focus now is to ensure that every member, whether they are starting their career, leading an organisation, or building a practice overseas, can see and feel the difference ISCA makes. I am honoured to lead ISCA at this pivotal moment, and I look forward to working with the Council and our members to build on the strong foundations we have in place.”

ISCA Adviser and immediate past President Mr Teo Ser Luck said: “It has been a great privilege to serve ISCA, our members, and the accountancy sector over the past four years. This journey has been one of the most fulfilling I have ever embarked on. None of it would have been possible without an exceptional Council, a dedicated management team, and members who believed in what we were building together. My sincere appreciation to ISCA and our members for the opportunity to serve.”

ISCA CEO Ms Fann Kor said: “2025 was a year of deliberate investment to strengthen what matters most to our members and to the profession. We invested in the talent pipeline, member support, digital capability and regional connectivity so that ISCA can continue to stay relevant and useful in a changing environment. I would also like to thank Mr Teo Ser Luck for his leadership and contributions over the past four years. Under his stewardship, ISCA made meaningful progress in strengthening the profession, growing the Singapore CA Qualification and expanding our regional footprint. Management looks forward to working closely with the new Council to turn these investments into stronger outcomes and clearer value for members.

For the biographies of the elected office bearers, new and re-elected Council Members, please click here.

Hashtag: #DifferenceMakers #Accountancy #ISCACouncil #AGM

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.