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Global Times: From regional specialty to global delicacy, roujiamo bridges cultures, makes Chinese cuisine international

BEIJING, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In September 2024, a giant billboard featuring the eye-catching slogan “Not China’s hamburger, but the world’s roujiamo” lit up Times Square in New York.

Roujiamo – a soft flatbread sliced open, filled with fragrant, tender, and juicy shredded meat, complemented by unique spices and sauces, makes every bite a burst of flavor and satisfaction. For thousands of years, this delicious snack has filled the stomachs and satisfied the taste buds of locals, as well as travelers along the Silk Road.

The history of Shaanxi’s roujiamo dates back to the Qin Dynasty (221BC-206B), over 2,000 years ago. During the Sui Dynasty (581-618) and Tang Dynasty (618-907), the production method became more refined, and by the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), roujiamo had evolved further and gained popularity, gradually appearing in streets and alleys, according to the People’s Daily.

Today, this delicious Shaanxi snack is reaching out to food lovers across the globe, carving its own place on the international stage. At the same time, through cultivating professional talent to preserve culinary traditions, improving production techniques, and exploring overseas markets, roujiamo has grown into a highly standardized and large-scale industry, with its reach expanding worldwide.

In 2015, the Huffington Post referred to Shaanxi’s roujiamo as “the world’s first hamburger.”

“We have drawn lessons from the expansion of Western fast food, but we are not simply replicating a Western mode; we are telling Chinese stories in the language of the world,” a roujiamo industry staff in Tongguan, Shaanxi Province, where roujiamo was first developed, told the Global Times.

He believes that the slogan “Not China’s hamburger, but the world’s roujiamo!” not only demonstrates the cultural confidence of the Chinese people in their traditional cuisine, but also signifies the global ambitions of Chinese food culture.

Taste of hometown

Chopping vegetables, making soup, stewing meat, and preparing liangpi (cold noodles)… Every morning at 8 am, before the London mist clears, Lara Yan, the manager of 1+1 Rougamo, and her staff begin their daily tasks of preparing roujiamo.

Located near several universities in central London, this roujiamo restaurant has become a “home” for many Chinese students and a “canteen” for local workers nearby. The restaurant’s roujiamo, with its crispy outer crust and tender marinated meat filling, has made many customers loyal regulars.

“Some customers from Xi’an have said that our roujiamo’s crispy skin and marinated meat are even more authentic than those in their hometown,” Yan said. “Initially, the restaurant received mostly Chinese customers, but over time, more and more foreign customers started to learn about and love our roujiamo.”

Though the restaurant benefits from competitive pricing and a strategic location, Yan believes the success of their expanded outreach and the high ratings from customers are primarily due to their dedication.

To make the best roujiamo, one of the founders of the restaurant went to Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, to improve his cooking skills and learned authentic Shaanxi techniques from local masters. Over the last six years, the restaurant has expanded from Cambridge to London, gradually allowing more customers to fall in love with Chinese cuisine.

“Our approach is to make costumers feel curious and interested. For example, the most common Chinese meat cuisine’s flavor here is sweet and sour, but we know that Chinese cuisine is much more diverse. It’s hard to introduce all our food, so we chose to use roujiamo as a way to challenge their general perception,” Yan told the Global Times.

However, Yan does not rigidly stick to tradition. “We strive to restore the most authentic flavors, but we’ve also introduced variations, such as duck meat roujiamo and vegetarian versions, to cater to local tastes, so more people can enjoy this dish,” she introduced.

“Dining is not just about filling your stomach, it’s also a way of transmitting culture and emotions,” Yan noted while sharing her culinary philosophy.

In order to ensure the freshness of ingredients, Yan and her staff begin their long preparations early each morning, especially for slow-cooked dishes like soups and liangpi. “Lunch hours are the busiest. Although dinner sees fewer customers, the shop is still filled with the happy chatter of customers until we close at 9 pm,” Yan said.

Yan believes that roujiamo is not just a traditional Chinese dish, it has become a “global cultural symbol.” To attract more customers, this year, they built a giant roujiamo with golden crispy skin and juicy meat in front of the restaurant, becoming a striking feature of the alley.

In fact, roujiamo restaurants have become popular all over the world. In the US, this fast-food dish, which is both filling and full of flavor, is loved by many.

Eric Lee, a regular at Xi’an Famous Foods, a well-known roujiamo chain in the US, commented on Google Maps: “I got great memories of this restaurant all over New York, definitely delicious. Always go spicy for everything!”

After launching successfully in Canada, Chinese fast-food chain Bingz, which specializes in roujiamo, also set foot in the US in 2023. There are always long lines outside the store, according to the Xinhua News Agency.

‘Burger’ with long history

With the expansion of roujiamo stores across the world, the snack has not only become a name card for Chinese food among global eaters, but also a bridge that connects China’s Guanzhong Plain with the world.

However, what is unknown to many is that, roujiamo, a delicacy with a history of more than 2,200 years, is a result of and testament to cultural interaction from the very beginning.

Legend has it that during a military campaign in Tongguan, Emperor Li Shimin of Tang Dynasty tasted Tongguan roujiamo and praised the dish repeatedly, largely boosting its popularity.

According to materials provided by the Tongguan county government, the origin of mo, the layered flatbread used in the Tongguan roujiamo, is believed to be from hubing, introduced by Chinese diplomat Ban Chao during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE).

Tongguan people later refined the recipe into the crisp and multi-layered mo known today.

Over the centuries since then, ethnic integration and culinary experimentation in the region has refined the dish into a uniquely flavorful masterpiece. Along with the development of industrialization in China, the branding and standardizing of Tongguan roujiamo is also accelerating. The food has gradually stepped out of the region and captured the taste buds of more people, becoming a powerful engine for the local economy and rural revitalization.

According to the Tongguan county government, so far, there are more than 20,000 Tongguan roujiamo restaurants across China, creating jobs for about 100,000 people. Thirteen roujiamo factories with 40 production lines have been established in Tongguan county alone, which are collectively able to churn out two million frozen mo daily and generate annual revenues exceeding one billion yuan ($138 million).

Tongguan roujiamo also started to explore overseas market in 2018. Now, the locally manufactured flatbread has been exported to 17 countries and regions including the US, the UK, and Australia, according to the county government.

In Tongguan, the local government has established a roujiamo association to organize local roujiamo production enterprises to participate in large-scale business activities. Supportive policies have also been laid out to provide startups with assistance in technical training and innovation. In 2024 alone, more than 800 training activities in skills and entrepreneurship were provided, according to the local government.

Local manufacturers have also made great strides in the research of production technologies, especially in terms of how to preserve the authenticity of mo while scaling production. Mo is the key to the good taste of Tongguan roujiamo.

“In the beginning, the types of flour used in different processing factories varied. Then, we worked with universities and scientific research institutions to select a custom flour that was most suitable in terms of hardness and toughness,” said Wang Huafeng, president of the Tongguan Roujiamo Association.

According to Wang, with continuous improvement of the production process, the standardization level of mo is getting even higher. The frozen mo sold on the market is now sealed in ultra-clean packaging by -18 C storage technology. Its flavor can be restored by more than 90 percent after heating anywhere in the world.

Innovation and compatibility

Historically, Shaanxi was a crossroad of cultures, where different traditions and ideas seamlessly blended. People in this region have always been known for their spirit of innovation and inclusivity. The ancient capital of Xi’an, once the starting point of the Silk Road, was a vibrant melting pot, where East met West and diverse cultures and cuisines converged, shaping the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Today, roujiamo continues to evolve through innovation, satisfying more palates and attracting more food lovers. From the savory and spicy steamed pork with lotus leaf bread, to the tender and chewy cured beef roujiamo with the signature soft flatbread, each variation brings its own unique flavor.

In addition to roujiamo, other traditional Chinese snacks have also gained international attention in recent years. For example, jianbing guozi (Chinese crepes) has made its way to global food scenes, with food trucks serving this savory, crispy snack in cities across the world. Similarly, tanghulu (candied hawthorn skewers), with its sweet and sour flavor, has captured the curiosity of international food lovers.

These snacks, much like roujiamo, are no longer confined to local markets – they are now part of the growing wave of Chinese street food culture that’s spreading across borders.

Today, in order to take roujiamo further across the world, people are still making more plans.

After opening two stores overseas in 2024 – one in Zaragoza, Spain, and another in Bangkok, Thailand – Wang is now busy with promoting the establishment of more Tongguan roujiamo chain stores overseas.

In London, Yan believes that with the growing popularity of roujiamo worldwide, more international customers will become eager to learn about China’s rich food culture.

“When we met in Cambridge, we said we wanted to make this brand a century-old restaurant. Now, we’re only 94 years away from becoming one. Isn’t that a great improvement?” Yan smiled. Her goal is to make her restaurant one of the representatives of Chinese cuisine in the UK.

“Dining is an art of constant learning. Every day is full of challenges, but the most important thing is to stay true to our original aspiration and focus on making every dish well,” she said.

https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202502/1327890.shtml

Artyzen Hospitality Group Expands to Xi’an with New Luxury Lifestyle Hotel


SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2025 – Artyzen Hospitality Group (AHG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Shun Tak Holdings Limited (HKSE: 242) today announced a management agreement with Xi’an Yang’s Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. (Xi’an Yang’s Real Estate) to open its first Artyzen Hotels and Resorts luxury lifestyle hotel in Xi’an, China. This marks AHG’s debut in China’s ancient capital and the continuation of its purposeful growth strategy.

Mr. Rogier Verhoeven, Executive Director and President of Group Hospitality Division, Shun Tak Holdings Limited and Mr. Yang Zengtian, Chairman of Xi'an Yang's Real Estate marks Artyzen Hospitality Group’s debut in China with the signing of a hotel management agreement for Artyzen Xi’an, a luxury hotel project slated to open in the first quarter of 2028.
Mr. Rogier Verhoeven, Executive Director and President of Group Hospitality Division, Shun Tak Holdings Limited and Mr. Yang Zengtian, Chairman of Xi’an Yang’s Real Estate marks Artyzen Hospitality Group’s debut in China with the signing of a hotel management agreement for Artyzen Xi’an, a luxury hotel project slated to open in the first quarter of 2028.

Artyzen Xi’an is slated to open in the first quarter of 2028, featuring approximately 280 guest rooms that blend elegant style with contemporary aesthetics. Located in the heart of the central business district within the Xi’an Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone, the hotel is near the Xi’an Grand Theatre. Designed by Wang Shu, China’s first Pritzker Prize-winning architect and an urban planning consultant for the Xi’an municipal government, this theatre is also China’s first newly built large-scale theatre to utilise an immersive sound system. Its groundbreaking acoustic design creates an extraordinary three-dimensional audio-visual experience. Artyzen Xi’an will collaborate with surrounding cultural facilities to form a cultural tourism ecosystem, celebrating Xi’an’s rich heritage as the starting point of the Overland Silk Road and its contemporary innovative vitality.

Celebrating the signing of the Artyzen Xi'an hotel management agreement, Mr. Rogier Verhoeven, Executive Director and President of the Group Hospitality Division, Shun Tak Holdings Limited presents to Mr. Yang Zengtian, Chairman of Xi'an Yang's Real Estate with a scroll of elegant cursive Chinese calligraphy signifying good fortune, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership to develop a luxury hotel that celebrates Xi'an's unique cultural heritage and modern charm.
Celebrating the signing of the Artyzen Xi’an hotel management agreement, Mr. Rogier Verhoeven, Executive Director and President of the Group Hospitality Division, Shun Tak Holdings Limited presents to Mr. Yang Zengtian, Chairman of Xi’an Yang’s Real Estate with a scroll of elegant cursive Chinese calligraphy signifying good fortune, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership to develop a luxury hotel that celebrates Xi’an’s unique cultural heritage and modern charm.

“As the inaugural city of the national ‘one belt and one road’ initiative, Xi’an’s significance as a historical centre and a hub for innovation makes it an ideal location for Artyzen Hotels and Resorts,” said Rogier Verhoeven Executive Director and President, Group Hospitality Division, Shun Tak. “We are committed and confident that this project will become Xi’an’s landmark cultural tourism destination.”

Yang Zengtian, Chairman of Xi’an Yang’s Real Estate, noted, ‘This collaboration with AHG represents a significant step toward our vision of creating a gateway showcasing Xi’an’s rich culture and technological innovation while enhancing tourism and strengthening the local community.”

Sunny Li, Vice President, China, AHG, added, “We are delighted to partner with Xi’an Yang’s Real Estate and contribute to the growth of Xi’an’s hospitality sector. We are looking forward to creating immersive guest experience celebrating Xi’ans unique cultural heritage and its modern charm.”

A strategic partnership between Artyzen Hospitality Group and Xi'an Yang's Real Estate commenced with the signing of the hotel management agreement for Artyzen Xi'an. Mr Rogier Verhoeven, Executive Director and President of Group Hospitality Division, Shun Tak Holdings Limited (7th from the left), Mr Yang Zengtian, Chairman of Xi'an Yang's Real Estate (6th from the right), Ms Zhao Xinxin, Deputy Director, Xi'an Hi-tech Zone Urban Living Room Development Center (4th from the right), Ms. Zhang Jia, Head of Investment Promotion Department, Xi'an Hi-tech Zone Urban Living Room Development Center (3rd from the right) and representatives from both parties were in attendance to celebrate this milestone for the luxury hotel project, which will celebrate Xi'an's unique cultural heritage and modern charm.
A strategic partnership between Artyzen Hospitality Group and Xi’an Yang’s Real Estate commenced with the signing of the hotel management agreement for Artyzen Xi’an. Mr Rogier Verhoeven, Executive Director and President of Group Hospitality Division, Shun Tak Holdings Limited (7th from the left), Mr Yang Zengtian, Chairman of Xi’an Yang’s Real Estate (6th from the right), Ms Zhao Xinxin, Deputy Director, Xi’an Hi-tech Zone Urban Living Room Development Center (4th from the right), Ms. Zhang Jia, Head of Investment Promotion Department, Xi’an Hi-tech Zone Urban Living Room Development Center (3rd from the right) and representatives from both parties were in attendance to celebrate this milestone for the luxury hotel project, which will celebrate Xi’an’s unique cultural heritage and modern charm.

Artyzen Hotels and Resorts brand is a collection of individually crafted luxury lifestyle hotels that celebrate the unique culture and heritage of each locale. Artyzen Xi’an will continue this tradition, incorporating local motifs and architectural styles into a modern aesthetic. Guests can expect curated experiences, immersing them in Xi’an’s heritage and unique flavour, offering a journey of discovery that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. Artyzen Xi’an will join 17 other Artyzen properties across the Asia Pacific region to promote the development of the cultural tourism economy.
Hashtag: #Artyzen #ArtyzenHotels #ArtyzenHospitality #ArtyzenHotelsandResorts #ArtyzenXi’an #ShunTakHoldingsLimited




Wechat: 雅辰酒店集团


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

About Artyzen Hospitality Group

Artyzen Hospitality Group (AHG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Shun Tak Holdings Limited (HKSE: 242) is a homegrown lifestyle hospitality specialist with two flagship hotel brands: Artyzen Hotels and Resorts, and Artyzen Habitat. Additionally, AHG operates a collection of distinctive lifestyle properties, including The Shàng by Artyzen, YaTi by Artyzen, and Grand Coloane Resort. AHG’s portfolio also includes service apartments, restaurants and bars, as well as a conference centre. For more information, please visit .

About Shun Tak Holdings Limited:

Shun Tak is a leading conglomerate active in the Greater Bay Area and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The Group is a forerunner in Macau and Hong Kong’s tourism and transportation scene, and has established a sizable portfolio of infrastructure investments and integrated developments spanning major economic zones across China, including the Pearl River Delta, Yangtze River Delta and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region. It is also expanding its footprint in the Singapore real estate market through recent acquisitions of premium properties and land parcels in downtown locations. With “Tourism +” as its growth strategy, the Group strives to harness its cross-sectoral experience in property, transportation, infrastructure, integrated commercial projects, hospitality and investments to deliver economic value for regions it operates in, as well as contribute to the country’s national development blueprint.

BioRay’s ROR1-Targeting Dual-Epitope ADC Drug BR111 Receives Formal Clinical Trial Approval from NMPA

SHANGHAI, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On December 19, 2024, BioRay Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“BioRay”) announced that the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has accepted the clinical trial application for its self-developed Class 1 innovative therapeutic biological product, BR111 for injection. BR111 is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting dual epitopes of ROR1, intended for the treatment of ROR1-positive hematological malignancies and solid tumors.

ROR1 is a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase protein that is either not expressed or expressed at low levels in normal tissues, but is highly expressed in various hematological malignancies and solid tumors, such as lymphoma, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and lung cancer. ROR1 is involved in the non-canonical Wnt signaling pathway mediated by Wnt5a, regulating the growth and invasion of tumor cells. It is closely associated with tumorigenesis and drug resistance, making it a potential target for oncology drug development. To date, no ROR1-targeting drugs have been marketed.

BR111 utilizes BioRay’s next-generation CysX™ irreversible site-specific conjugation technology platform to conjugate an antibody targeting dual epitopes of ROR1 with the small-molecule toxin eribulin. It is the world’s first anti-ROR1 Bi-paratopic ADC to enter clinical trials. BR111 can recognize two non-overlapping epitopes of ROR1 on the surface of tumor cells, and dual-epitope recognition brings stronger affinity and endocytosis. Once endocytosed into ROR1-positive tumor cells, BR111 releases the small-molecule toxin in the lysosome, effectively killing tumor cells. Developed using the CysX™ platform, BR111 has higher homogeneity and circulating stability, significantly reducing toxin release in circulation, which enhances safety and optimizes the therapeutic window.

In preclinical studies, BR111 demonstrated superior in vivo anti-tumor efficacy compared to its clinical counterparts in multiple animal models and exhibited better safety. Additionally, BR111 can induce a bystander effect and activate immune response in the tumor microenvironment, showing potential for combination therapy with various drugs, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies.

The acceptance of this project application is a testament to BioRay’s R&D capabilities and a validation of the CysX™ platform technology. Moving forward, BioRay will continue to focus on clinical needs, drive innovative research, and advance biopharmaceutical technology, with the goal of delivering more effective and safer treatment options to patients through innovative drugs.

Burns Night: Celebrating Scottish Heritage in Laos

Burns Night: Celebrating Scottish Heritage in Laos
Man plays bagpipes at the event (photo credit: British Business Group in Laos)

Burns Night 2025, an annual celebration organized by the British Business Group in Laos (BBGL) to honor the life and works of renowned Scottish poet Robert Burns, took place on 1 February at the Holiday Inn and Suites in Vientiane Capital.

Meeting Australia’s Growing Demand for Sustainable Tissue Products: APP Group and Sorbent Paper Lead the Charge

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Consumer demands in Australia have shifted over the past few years. Based on the survey conducted by Monash University, it stated that almost half of Australian shoppers (46%) believe that sustainability has become an important factor when purchasing retail products.

When it comes to toilet paper, Australia is one of the largest markets in terms of volume growth. There is an expected volume growth of 1.8% for toilet paper in 2025, with a total 95.7 million USD import in 2023. The demand for sustainable and eco-friendly hygiene tissue & hygiene paper is steadily growing as consumers increasingly prioritize environmentally responsible choices.

Sorbent Paper is dedicated to producing sustainably sourced tissue products. This reflects on their production method, where they apply responsible sourcing from responsibly managed plantations and commit to zero deforestation. Sorbent Paper is undergoing assessment by an independent national forest management scheme to meet internationally recognized sustainable forest management standards. Further, Sorbent Paper’s goal is to ensure all raw materials are PEFC CoC certified or come from non-controversial sources under PEFC guidelines, thus providing customers with environmentally responsible products.

Together with APP Group, Sorbent Paper promotes responsibly grown and managed Rapidly Renewable Fibre (RRF) Plantations, which uses fast-growing Eucalyptus and Acacia Trees that reach full height and can be harvested every 6–8 years This demonstrates their commitment to environmental responsibility.

“As Australia increasingly prioritizes sustainability, Sorbent Paper is proud to offer tissue products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of quality and environmental responsibility. Our mission aligns with APP Group’s vision of a greener, more sustainable future,” stated Steve Nicholson, ANZ Director for Sorbent Paper Company

Sorbent Paper serves the away-from-home market, offering toilet paper, facial tissues, and hand towels designed for businesses and organizations prioritizing comfort and reliability. Distributed in bulk through trusted partners, these products ensure quality and thoughtful solutions for diverse needs.

About APP Group

APP is a leading pulp, paper, and forestry company based in Indonesia, supplying high-quality tissue, packaging, and paper to over 150 countries. With operations in Indonesia and China, we prioritize sustainability, ethical practices, and the well-being of our employees, society, and the environment. Our Sustainability Roadmap Vision 2030, aligned with ESG principles, guides our efforts in environmental protection, community support, biodiversity preservation, and carbon neutrality.

Address Advisors Setting Benchmarks for GCC’s Real Estate Solutions in India

SINGAPORE and BENGALURU, India, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Address Advisors, a leading real estate consulting firm in India, is offering the GCCs entering the Indian market comprehensive support. Through their occupier service solutions, the firm has become a trusted partner for organizations navigating India’s dynamic business environment.

India is firmly established as a global hub for setting up Global Capability Centers (GCCs), thanks to its unmatched talent pool, innovation-friendly ecosystem, and cost advantages. GCCs serve as centralized hubs for managing operations, driving innovation, and delivering services for global organizations. Of over 3,000 GCCs worldwide, India is home to over 1,600, accounting for over 50% of the total. These centers span critical sectors, including IT, BFSI, healthcare, and manufacturing. IT dominates the GCC landscape, representing 40% of the total. BFSI follows at 20%, healthcare at 15%, while the remaining 25% encompasses manufacturing, retail, and other industries. Major cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Pune, and Chennai have emerged as hotspots for GCCs, due to their robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and connectivity.

Amid this thriving ecosystem, Address Advisors is playing a vital role by providing strategic real estate solutions tailored to the specific needs of GCCs. Their expertise allows businesses to focus on growth and innovation while the firm handles the complexities of setting up and even managing offices. Recognizing the increasing interest from companies based in Singapore and Dubai, Address Advisors has made supporting businesses from these regions a priority. “As a hub for Global Capability Centers (GCCs), India has become a vital engine for innovation, and strategic growth for global enterprises. We have over 50 GCCs set up in India every year and they continue to drive demand for premium real estate in key markets across India. From large-scale office campuses to flexible, tech-enabled workspaces, the requirements of GCCs are evolving rapidly. As they diversify their operations and deepen their presence, there’s a growing focus on sustainability, employee well-being, and integrated infrastructure. Looking at it as a strategic opportunity to deliver tailored solutions that support GCCs’ long-term growth,” said Ms Bhawana Khetan, Co-Founder, Address Advisors.

With a deep understanding of local markets and unique requirements, the firm is adept at guiding international companies through the Indian market’s intricacies. Their tailored approach ensures seamless transitions for businesses looking to leverage India’s vibrant economy and abundant talent pool. This commitment underscores Address Advisors’ role as a bridge for global collaboration, empowering companies from Singapore and Dubai to establish a strong presence in India.

About Address Advisors

Address Advisors is a leading real estate brokerage house in India that specialize in commercial, residential, land & industrial, warehousing & logistics, facility management, project management, design & build, and hospitality. With their PAN India presence they look to set new benchmarks with client centric services.

For more information visit website.

Contact Details: 
Aman Kataruka
Email: marketing@addressadvisors.com
Phone: +91 9804445977

Caliway Announces CBL-514 Second Phase 2b Study Results (CBL-0205) Met Endpoints

  • CBL-514, the world’s first investigational drug for large-area localized fat reduction, has demonstrated significant efficacy in its second and the last Phase 2b study (CBL-0205) before Phase 3.
  • 54.2% of participants in the CBL-514 group achieved at least 20% fat volume reduction four weeks after treatment.
  • Nearly 80% of the CBL-514 treatment group achieved at least 1 grade improvement in CR-AFRS in the PP population. These study results align with the company’s previous Phase 2b (CBL-0204) results, demonstrating the consistency of CBL-514’s efficacy, safety, and tolerability.

NEW TAIPEI CITY, Feb. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Caliway Biopharmaceuticals (TWSE-6919) announced today that CBL-514’s second Phase 2b clinical study (CBL-0205), sprung across 15 sites in the U.S. and Canada, successfully met its primary and all critical secondary efficacy endpoints.

With this success, CBL-514 has now completed all Phase 2 clinical studies for localized fat reduction, positioned for the upcoming global multi-center pivotal Phase 3 studies.

CBL-514 Phase 2b: Study Design and Data Highlights

CBL-0205 Phase 2b is a multi-center, double-masking (Participant and Outcomes Assessor), randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study approved by the U.S. FDA and Health Canada. This was the largest CBL-514 study to date, enrolling 173 participants with moderate (Grade 3) or severe (Grade 4) abdominal fat accumulation, as assessed by the Abdominal Fat Rating Scale (AFRS). Each participant received up to 4 treatments of the allocated study drug administered subcutaneously to the abdomen, once every 3 weeks, followed by four and eight weeks of efficacy and safety follow-up visits after the final treatment. The key highlights of the study results include:

  1. Primary Endpoint Percentage of participants achieving at least 20% fat volume reduction compared to placebo.

    MRI data showed that 54.2% of participants in the CBL-514 group achieved at least 20% fat volume reduction at four weeks after the final treatment, significantly higher than 0% in the placebo group (p<0.00001). 

  2. Secondary Endpoints:

    (1)  Percentage of participants achieving at least 20% fat volume reduction compared to CBL-A1 and CBL-A2.

    MRI data showed that 54.2% of participants in the CBL-514 group achieved at least 20% fat volume reduction at four weeks after the final treatment, significantly outperforming compared to 17.4% in the CBL-A1 group (p<0.02) and 7.7% in the CBL-A2 group (p<0.0005).

    (2) 
    Absolute fat volume reduction (mL) compared to placebo, CBL-A1 and CBL-A2.

    The CBL-514 group participants achieved an average of 166.6 mL subcutaneous fat volume reduction four weeks after the final treatment, significantly greater than the 15.7 mL increase in fat volume observed in the placebo group (p<0.00001). Compared to CBL-A1 and CBL-A2 groups, CBL-514 demonstrated a significantly higher absolute reduction (CBL-514: 166.6 mL vs. CBL-A1: 69.9 mL, p<0.00005; CBL-514 vs. CBL-A2: 70.5 mL, p<0.00005).

    (3) 
    Percentage reduction in fat volume (%) compared to placebo, CBL-A1 and CBL-A2.

    The CBL-514 group participants demonstrated a mean fat volume reduction of 22.4% four weeks after the final treatment, significantly greater than the 1.8% increase in the placebo group (p<0.00001).  Compared to CBL-A1 and CBL-A2 groups, CBL-514 demonstrated a significantly higher percentage reduction in subcutaneous fat volume (CBL-514: 22.4% vs. CBL-A1:10.5%, p<0.0002; CBL-514 vs. CBL-A2: 11.7%, p<0.0005).

    (4) 
    Abdominal Fat Rating Scale (AFRS) improvement compared to placebo.

    • Four weeks after the final treatment, 75.7% of participants in the CBL-514 group achieved at least 1 grade CR-AFRS improvement as assessed by investigators, compared to 27.5% in the placebo group (p< 0.00005). • Similarly, 73.0% of participants in the CBL-514 group achieved at least 1 grade PR-AFRS improvement as assessed by participants, significantly higher than 20.0% in the placebo group (p<0.00002).  For Grade 3 (moderate) or Grade 4 (severe) participants, liposuction procedure would typically improve only 1-grade AFRS. These results highlight that CBL-514 effectively reduces subcutaneous fat and delivers noticeable improvements within four weeks, as reported by physicians and participants.

  3. Safety and Tolerability:

    Overall, the safety and tolerability profiles of CBL-514 demonstrated in the study were favorable and consistent with previous clinical studies of CBL-514, with no drug-related serious adverse event (SAE) or systematic side effects reported. The most TEAEs were mild to moderate ISRs (injection site reactions). 

Looking Ahead: Pivotal Phase 3 Studies to Begin

To date, Caliway has completed 7 CBL-514 clinical studies for localized fat reduction, covering 474 participants, with each study meeting its primary efficacy endpoint. These consistent and reproducible results demonstrated the product’s strong efficacy and safety profile, providing a solid foundation as the company moves toward global pivotal Phase 3 studies. Caliway plans to initiate subject recruitment for two pivotal global Phase 3 studies in the second half of 2025, with a total enrollment of approximately 600 participants. CBL-514 aims to set a new standard in the aesthetic medicine market by addressing unmet needs and providing a groundbreaking alternative to existing treatments.

For more information regarding CBL-0205 Phase 2b study (NCT06005441), please visit: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06005441?intr=cbl-514&page=2&rank=11

About AFRS

AFRS is a scale developed by Caliway and validated following U.S. FDA recommendations and relevant regulations. Following the FDA’s guideline of Patient-Focused Drug Development, the primary endpoint of this study was to assess the efficacy of CBL-514 in improving the abdominal fat level using the Abdominal Fat Rating Scale (AFRS). The AFRS includes the Clinician Reported-AFRS (CR-AFRS) designed for physicians and the Patient Reported-AFRS (PR-AFRS) designed for participants. They were used to assess the response rate based on the physician’s evaluation and the participant’s self-assessment, respectively. The scale categorizes abdominal fat into five grades from Grade 1 (None/Minimal) to Grade 5 (Very Severe), with higher scores indicating higher severity of abdominal fat, and different grades indicating clinically significant differences.

About CBL-514

CBL-514, a 505(b)(1) and first-in-class small-molecule drug, is a lipolysis injectable that can induce adipocyte apoptosis and lipolysis to reduce subcutaneous adiposity in treatment areas without causing any systematic side effects on the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and respiratory system. Caliway’s preclinical studies have shown that CBL-514 upregulates the apoptosis mediator caspase 3 and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and then induces adipocyte apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. Caliway is investigating multiple indications for CBL-514, including non-invasive subcutaneous fat reduction, Dercum’s disease, and cellulite. To date, a total of 520 participants have been enrolled in CBL-514 clinical studies. According to 10 completed clinical studies of three indications, CBL-514 has demonstrated precise efficacy with a favorable safety profile. Caliway plans to initiate two pivotal global Phase 3 studies for non-surgical fat reduction in the second half of 2025.

About Caliway Biopharmaceuticals

Caliway Biopharmaceuticals (Caliway) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company driven to breakthrough drug discovery of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Listed on the Taiwan Exchange (TWSE-6919), Caliway aims to become an innovative pharmaceutical leader in aesthetic medicine and other diseases. For more information, please visit: https://www.caliway.com.tw/en

Disclaimer

This article and related information on this site contain forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information requires the Company to make numerous assumptions and is subject to inherent risks, uncertainties, and other factors that are beyond the control of the Company which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to timely inform, update, or revise the information on this site if circumstances should change.

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON BINTAN, LAGOI BAY CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING, INVITES GUESTS TO FULLY EXPERIENCE THE STUNNING BEAUTY OF BINTAN ISLAND

Embracing a harmonious blend of comfort and contemporary elegance,
the first Four Points by Sheraton in Bintan rises as a distinguished icon of the island.

Download high resolution press images here

BINTAN ISLAND, Indonesia, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay proudly celebrates its first anniversary today (10/2) with a Grand Opening, marking the hotel’s full provision of all guestrooms, oceanfront villas, spa, 24/7 fitness center, two restaurants, one beach-club, six meeting rooms and an outdoor events space, and other extensive facilities. With this milestone, the hotel solidifies its position as a top choice for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and warm hospitality in the serene heart of Bintan’s Lagoi Bay.

With direct beach access, Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay boasts a spacious tropical outdoor swimming pool and a vibrant beach club setting. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Singapore Strait, the hotel offers a seamless blend of ultimate comfort and tranquility. With beautiful ocean views and peaceful surroundings, completed by thoughtfully designed amenities for a truly memorable stay.
With direct beach access, Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay boasts a spacious tropical outdoor swimming pool and a vibrant beach club setting. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Singapore Strait, the hotel offers a seamless blend of ultimate comfort and tranquility. With beautiful ocean views and peaceful surroundings, completed by thoughtfully designed amenities for a truly memorable stay.

With direct beach access, Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay boasts a spacious tropical outdoor swimming pool and a vibrant beach club setting. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Singapore Strait, the hotel offers a seamless blend of ultimate comfort and tranquility. Its prime location provides guests with beautiful ocean views and peaceful surroundings, completed by thoughtfully designed amenities for a truly memorable stay.

The hotel features 300 stylist guestrooms and eight ocean-front villas. Over the past year, Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay has fully opened all its facilities, ensuring a complete and seamless guest experience. With every room now available for stay, guests can choose among various accommodations, including the standard Deluxe Room, Executive Suites, Cabana Ocean Suites with spacious terraces, and the luxurious Oceanfront Villas.

The Oceanfront Villa, in particular, offers an exclusive retreat with breathtaking sea views, perfect for honeymooners or those seeking greater comfort and privacy. Designed for ultimate relaxation, it features elegantly curated interiors with premium furnishings, a private pool for a secluded swim, and exclusive amenities, including high quality bath essentials, in-room dining, and personalized services. Guests can wake up to the soothing sights and sounds of the ocean, creating a serene and romantic ambiance—ideal for couples celebrating special moments.

Guests can savor authentic Indonesian flavors at Rempah Kitchen, the hotel’s signature restaurant, or enjoy light snacks and beverages at Ararinda Lounge. For a more vibrant experience, El Lagoi Beach Club offers a lively atmosphere with live DJ sets, fresh seafood, grilled favorites, and signature drinks, including Indonesian craft beer on tap as part of Four Points’ Best Brews™ program.

With 800 sqm of flexible function space including six meeting rooms and an outdoor events space, Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay offers venues for all types of corporate or social gatherings. For relaxation, guests can visit Sa’kai Spa, featuring specially curated Indonesian treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Those looking to stay active can enjoy the 24-hour fitness center, while families with children can take advantage of the complimentary and fully-supervised Kids Club.

A stay at Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay offers easy access to a variety of nearby attractions. Lagoi Bay Beach boasts pristine sands and clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water sports. Nature lovers can embark on the Bintan Mangrove Tour, exploring the island’s lush ecosystem, or visit Safari Lagoi, home to rescued endangered animals such as sun bears, Sumatran elephants, Komodo dragons, and estuarine crocodiles. For shopping and entertainment, Lagoi Bay Plaza offers a vibrant mix of retail and dining options. Those seeking cultural experiences can visit Patung Seribu Temple (Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva) in Tanjung Pinang, a stunning Buddhist temple renowned for its collection of over 500 intricately crafted statues.

Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay is easily accessible via daily ferry services. From Singapore, guests can take an-hour ferry service from Tanah Merah Port to Bandar Bentan Telani Port in Lagoi. Alternatively, guests can arrive at Sri Bintan Pura in Tanjung Pinang from Berjaya Waterfront (Johor Bahru, Malaysia) and Telaga Punggur (Batam, Indonesia). Daily flights from Jakarta are available to Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport in Tanjung Pinang. To ensure a seamless journey, the hotel provides complimentary transfer services to and from Bandar Bentan Telani Port.

“We are thrilled to officially celebrate the Grand Opening of Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay,” said Andi Bagistav Oddek, General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay. “Over the past year, we have had the privilege of welcoming guests from around the world, and today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Our commitment remains the same—to offer the perfect blend of comfort and style while showcasing Bintan’s natural beauty and rich culture. With a dedicated team providing personalized and uncomplicated service, we aim to create lasting memories for every guests, whether they’re here for a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo adventure.”

Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay participates in Marriott Bonvoy – the award-winning travel program from Marriott International – allowing members to earn and redeem points for their stay at the hotel, and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of brands. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. Enroll for free here.

For more information or reservations, please visit fourpointsbintan.com or call +62 770-691899.

About Four Points

Four Points by Sheraton is a global brand with over 300 hotels in 46 countries and territories. At Four Points, travel is reinvented where timeless classics are woven with modern details, paired with genuine service in a casual environment—all around the world. Four Points hotels can be found in the heart of urban centers, near the beach, by the airport, or in the suburbs. Each hotel offers a familiar place to kick back and relax with an authentic sense of the local, where guests can watch sports and enjoy the brand’s Best Brews® program. Four Points is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To learn more about Four Points, visit us online.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.