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Alebund Pharmaceuticals Announces First Participant Randomized and Dosed in Global Phase IIb Multi-Regional Clinical Trial of AP306 for Hyperphosphatemia

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SHANGHAI, July 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Alebund Pharmaceuticals (Jiangsu) Limited (“Alebund” or the “Company”; HKEX: 09637), a renal-focused biopharmaceutical company, today announced that the first participant has been randomized and dosed in the global Phase IIb multi-regional clinical trial of AP306 in patients with hyperphosphatemia receiving maintenance hemodialysis (NCT06712654). The trial is being conducted at multiple clinical sites in the United States and China and is co-sponsored by Alebund and R1 Therapeutics, Inc. (“R1”).

AP306 (formerly known as EOS789) is a first-in-class oral pan-phosphate transporter inhibitor. AP306 was originally discovered and developed by Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“Chugai”) and was subsequently licensed to the Company, which has obtained the global rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize AP306. Unlike conventional phosphate binders that bind phosphate in the gut lumen, AP306 broadly inhibits three key intestinal phosphate transporters — NaPi-IIb, PiT-1 and PiT-2 — to reduce active intestinal phosphate transport, offering a differentiated approach to the management of hyperphosphatemia. The randomization and dosing of the first participant marks a new stage in the multicenter clinical execution of AP306’s global development program in the United States and China.

Trial Design

The Phase IIb trial is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study that plans to enroll approximately 168 participants with hyperphosphatemia receiving maintenance hemodialysis. Participants will be randomized across six fixed-dose AP306 regimens or placebo over an eight-week treatment period. The study is designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability and serum phosphate-lowering effect of fixed-dose AP306.

The primary endpoint is the change in serum phosphate from baseline to the end of treatment. Secondary endpoints include the proportion of participants reaching the target phosphate range and the time to phosphate control. Topline results are expected in the first half of 2027.

The trial has obtained approval from the Human Genetic Resources Administration of China (HGRAC). Peking University People’s Hospital, the China leading site, was recently activated, and participant enrollment is in progress.

Unmet Medical Need

Hyperphosphatemia is a common and important complication in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) receiving dialysis, affecting approximately 95% of dialysis-dependent CKD patients. Persistently elevated serum phosphate is associated with vascular calcification, secondary hyperparathyroidism, renal osteodystrophy, and increased risks of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. [1-3] Regular dialysis and dietary phosphate restriction are often insufficient to control phosphate burden, meaning patients frequently require long-term pharmacological treatment. Even with the widespread use of phosphate binders, approximately 76% of dialysis patients in China still fail to achieve the target serum phosphate range of 3.5–5.5 mg/dL, which is significantly higher than that in the U.S. (approx. 52%) and Japan (approx. 39%). [4-5] The number of dialysis patients in China is expected to grow from approximately 1.3 million in 2025 to about 3.4 million by 2035 (a CAGR of approx. 10.1%),  [6] representing a continuously expanding unmet medical need. Existing therapies still face challenges such as gastrointestinal tolerability, pill burden, and long-term adherence. Innovative treatment options that balance efficacy, tolerability, and convenience remain to be further developed.

Prior Phase II Study of AP306 in China

In a completed Phase II clinical trial in China (NCT05764590), AP306 monotherapy demonstrated a mean serum phosphate reduction from baseline of 2.51 mg/dL, compared with 1.08 mg/dL for the active comparator sevelamer carbonate. At Weeks 7 to 8, nearly 95% of patients in the AP306 group had serum phosphate levels below 5.5 mg/dL, compared with approximately 50% in the sevelamer carbonate group in the trial.

The most common adverse events were gastrointestinal disorders, mainly diarrhea; all diarrhea events were Grade 1 or 2 and mostly resolved within two weeks. No serious adverse event was reported in the AP306 group, and the discontinuation rate due to adverse events was below 5%. Results were published in Kidney International Reports. [7]

Based on AP306’s innovative mechanism and clinical results, the National Medical Products Administration granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation to AP306 for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease in June 2024.

References

[1] KDIGO 2017 Clinical Practice Guideline Update. Kidney Int Suppl. 2017;7(1):1–59.
[2] Block GA, et al. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2004;15(8):2208–2218.
[3] Tentori F, et al. Am J Kidney Dis. 2008;52(3):519–530.
[4] CIC, Global and Chinese Hyperphosphatemia Drug Industry Blue Book, 2023.
[5] Guedes M, et al. Kidney Med. 2023;5(2):100584. doi:10.1016/j.xkme.2022.100584.
[6] Prospectus of Alebund Pharmaceuticals (Jiangsu) Limited dated June 18, 2026
[7] Wang L, et al. Kidney Int Rep. 2025;10(4):1143–1151. doi:10.1016/j.ekir.2025.01.038. PMID: 40303220.

Collaboration with R1

R1 is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing first-in-class therapies for patients with kidney disease. In December 2025, Alebund and R1 entered into licensing and equity arrangements. Under the collaboration and license agreement forming part of these arrangements, Alebund granted R1 an exclusive license to develop, manufacture and commercialize AP306 outside Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, while retaining full rights and control in those four markets. The parties are co-sponsors of the Phase IIb trial. Each party is responsible for clinical trial execution and regulatory submissions in its respective territory and provides the other party with relevant data and support required for regulatory purposes.

About Alebund Pharmaceuticals

Alebund Pharmaceuticals (09637.HK) is a biopharmaceutical company focused on kidney disease and related chronic conditions, aiming to bring better therapies to patients worldwide. It has one of the broadest renal-focused pipelines and an integrated platform spanning R&D, manufacturing and commercialization. Its portfolio comprises seven investigational drug candidates and one commercialized product, Mircera®. Three of the candidates are at the clinical stage: AP301 (Phase III; China registrational Phase III trial completed, global MRCT ongoing), AP306 (Phase II) and AP303 (Phase I). Together they address chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its complications, including hyperphosphatemia, renal anemia, IgA nephropathy, diabetic kidney disease, FSGS and ADPKD. Alebund has built a manufacturing site in Yangzhou, Jiangsu to support the future commercial manufacturing of AP301 and other pipeline products and has obtained a Drug Manufacturing License (Category B) issued by the Jiangsu Provincial Drug Administration. The Company has also established a dedicated nephrology sales team responsible for the commercialization of relevant products in China. For more information, visit www.alebund.com.

Media and Investor Inquiries

Media and Investor Relations: IR@alebund.com
Website: www.alebund.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding clinical development plans, expected timing of data, product potential and future development. These statements are based on the Company’s judgments and assumptions as of the date of this press release and are subject to various risks and uncertainties; actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any securities.

The Art of Happiness: Nationwide Children’s Art Competition Celebrates Young Creativity in Vietnam

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Advertorial Desk
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HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, July 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Young artists across Vietnam are invited to share what happiness means to them through The Art of Happiness: Painting Dreams, Discovering Worlds, a nationwide children’s art competition that celebrates imagination, creativity and personal expression. Co-organized by The Brand Promise and Lotus Gallery, and supported by Club Med and SERENE SAIGON, the initiative offers children a meaningful platform to tell their own stories of joy, hope and discovery through art.

Open to Vietnamese citizens and expatriates aged 08 to 18 residing in Vietnam, The Art of Happiness welcomes complimentary entries from all eligible participants. Through original artworks, young artists are invited to explore their own definition of happiness. In doing so, it encourages young artists to trust their creativity and express themselves with confidence.
Open to Vietnamese citizens and expatriates aged 08 to 18 residing in Vietnam, The Art of Happiness welcomes complimentary entries from all eligible participants. Through original artworks, young artists are invited to explore their own definition of happiness. In doing so, it encourages young artists to trust their creativity and express themselves with confidence.

Open to Vietnamese citizens and expatriates aged 8 to 18 residing in Vietnam, The Art of Happiness welcomes complimentary entries from all eligible participants. Through original artworks, young artists are invited to explore their own definition of happiness. In doing so, it encourages young artists to trust their creativity and express themselves with confidence.

Each participant may submit up to three artworks through the official registration platform from 20 July to 27 August 2026. From all submissions, 20 young artists will be selected as finalists to participate in a curated exhibition at Lotus Gallery, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s pioneering private art galleries established in 1991. Their selected artworks will be on display from 11 to 21 September 2026, giving them the opportunity to experience a professional gallery exhibition while engaging with art lovers, families and fellow young artists.

The collection will be open to the public, who will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite artworks and support emerging young talents. The initiative will culminate in an Award Ceremony on 21 September 2026, celebrating the creativity, imagination and unique perspectives of Vietnam’s next generation of young artists.

“The Art of Happiness is first and foremost about giving children space to explore what happiness means to them and to share those stories through art,” shared Bruno Courbet, Club Med’s Country Director for Thailand, India, Indonesia, and New Markets. “Every child experiences the world in a different way, and we wanted this initiative to become a platform where those diverse perspectives can be seen, appreciated and celebrated. We hope it inspires more young people to keep discovering, dreaming and expressing themselves, knowing that their voices and visions matter.”

Reflecting the philosophy behind the initiative, the prizes are designed to extend each young artist’s journey beyond the canvas. The Grand Prize offers one winning family of four a three-day, two-night all-inclusive stay at Club Med Phuket (excluding airfare), while the Second Prize provides another family with a stay and golf experience at SERENE SAIGON, a private clubhouse in Ho Chi Minh City. The Third Prize will offer a day pass at SERENE SAIGON for golf and lounge access. Additional award details will be announced prior to the exhibition.

For more information and the latest updates on the competition, visit Lotus Gallery’s official communication channel at www.facebook.com/lotusgalleryhcm.

Beijing Tong Ren Tang Sparks New Momentum in the Inheritance of TCM through Student Ambassador Programme

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Advertorial Desk
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New Video Showcases the Younger Generation’s Journey from Campus into the World of TCM


To learn more about the students’ journey of discovery, please click the link below to watch the programme video on BTRT’s YouTube: https://youtu.be/6LRyk_DLucA

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 July 2026 – Beijing Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine Company Limited (“BTRT”) (3613.HK) has released a new video showcasing its Hong Kong “Student Ambassador Programme for Chinese Medicine and Health Care”, a youth engagement initiative designed to fuel young people’s interest in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) through fresh, hands-on, and inspiring experiences.

This new video showcases Beijing Tong Ren Tang's Hong Kong
This new video showcases Beijing Tong Ren Tang’s Hong Kong “Student Ambassador Programme for Chinese Medicine and Health Care”, a youth engagement initiative designed to fuel young people’s interest in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) through fresh, hands-on, and inspiring experiences.

Rooted in BTRT’s long-standing values and supported by the brand’s more than 350 years of history, the programme reflects the company’s commitment to promoting Chinese medicine culture while embracing innovation to connect with the next generation. Through immersive learning, 5G technology exploration and community activities, BTRT aims to make TCM more accessible, relevant and inspiring for primary and secondary school students in Hong Kong.

In the video, students share how they learned about the TCM principle of “preventive treatment of disease”, discovered how herbs can support daily wellness, and gained first-hand insight into the use of Chinese medicine therapies in sports recovery.

From classroom knowledge to real-world experience One of the programme’s key strengths is its ability to shape how students perceive TCM by showing its relevance to daily life, sparking curiosity, and encouraging continued conversations with peers and elders. During the visits to BTRT’s Hong Kong production and R&D base, students toured the Tong Ren Tang Museum, production plant, observed the production line, and joined a hands-on workshop to experience traditional pharmaceutical craftsmanship first-hand. Students also visited BTRT’s Chinese herbal garden, where they learned about the connection between Chinese medicine, nature and wellness.

Where Heritage meets Innovation and Technology The programme also introduces students to the role of innovation in modern Chinese medicine. During the visit to China Mobile 5G Innovation Centre Hong Kong Open Lab, students explored how 5G, AIoT and AI can support smarter health and wellness scenarios. Back on campus, they learned how connected sensors, communications technology and AI can be applied to Chinese herbal planting, from monitoring growth to collecting, analysing and presenting data.

Turning learning into community impact Student ambassadors also step into the community to serve as health mentors for the elderly, sharing wellness knowledge and supporting simple therapeutic activities such as Ba Duan Jin and acupoint-based care. They transform classroom learning into empathy, service and social responsibility.

Building a long-term platform for youth engagement As BTRT continues to grow in the region, the company sees youth education and cultural engagement as an important part of its long-term vision. The Student Ambassador Programme has now been extended into a long-term initiative, with this year marking its second year of rollout to nurture youngsters’ interest in Chinese medicine and health care.

Following the strong response to last year’s programme, it returns this year with its signature content, enhanced by the new “Campus Herbal Medicine Baizi Cabinet” initiative and visits to BTRT’s herbal garden, where students can learn about the link between Chinese medicine and nature, as well as the wisdom of seasonal wellness and balance. Together, these additions extend the programme’s impact, promote broader knowledge-sharing, and support the passing on of Chinese medicine culture across the campus community.

Guided by the vision of “Inheriting Traditional Chinese Medicine, Inspiring a Smarter Future,” BTRT remains committed to passing on the wisdom of Chinese medicine in ways that resonate with younger generations, while contributing its unique strengths to global health development.

Hashtag: #beijingtongrentang, #studentambassador, #TCM #traditionalChineseMedicine #BTRT


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

About Beijing Tong Ren Tang

Tong Ren Tang was founded in 1669 and has a 356-years history. The company has always adhered to its corporate motto of “No compromise on cost and labour despite the complexity of processing herbal medicine. No compromise on quality and standard despite the scarcity of medicine ingredients.” This commitment has led Beijing Tong Ren Tang to steady development, lasting through every generation, achieving excellence, and becoming a national treasure while expanding globally.

At the same time, Beijing Tong Ren Tang has taken on the mission of promoting traditional Chinese medicine culture, actively participating in domestic and international traditional Chinese medicine promotion activities, facilitating cultural exchanges around the world, and striving to expand the international influence of traditional Chinese medicine. To date, it has been operating over 160 retail branches in 26 countries and regions overseas, making it one of the most recognized traditional Chinese medicine brands internationally.

Tuya Smart Accelerates Physical AI Commercialization with Strategic Investment in Robopoet

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Advertorial Desk
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HANGZHOU, China, July 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Tuya Smart (NYSE: TUYA, HKEX: 2391), a leading global AI cloud platform service provider, made a strategic investment in Robopoet’s recently closed RMB 100 million pre-A financing round. The round also drew participation from existing backers Sequoia China and GSR Ventures, along with two other new investors. Tuya’s investment signals its accelerating push to close the commercialization loop for physical AI.


Behind the Investment: From AI Development to Global Expansion

Tuya’s strategic investment comes as Robopoet’s debut product Fuzozo has achieved cumulative domestic sales approaching 300,000 units as of June 2026. The two companies’ partnership dates to 2025, when Tuya began providing the underlying global AI cloud platform that helped transform this compact, plush, eye-blinking AI emotional companion into a market sensation.

“2026 marks the critical window for AI hardware to be commercialized at scale. Market-validated, AI-native hardware is entering a phase of explosive growth,” said Alex Yang, Co-founder, COO and CFO of Tuya Smart.

The strategic rationale goes beyond a bet on a single product category. It reflects a broader vision for AI hardware commercialization. As AI advances from models to real-world applications, AI hardware is emerging as a key bridge connecting the technology with consumers. From AI robots and toys to smart home devices, intelligent products are evolving into proactive AI companions. Through its AI+IoT ecosystem, Tuya will continue to drive the convergence of AI and the physical world.

Strong Market Validation of AI Toy Solutions

During the 618 Shopping Festival, China’s largest mid-year online shopping event, Tuya’s empowerment model proved its effectiveness at scale: Fuzozo sold 40,000 units, ranking first in Tmall’s AI toy category, while other Tuya-empowered AI Toy products collectively demonstrated ecosystem-wide momentum: Walulu sold 8,000 units; AOOMII Smart AI Companion Robot, AI Scruffy Cat and Wozzi each reached approximately 5,000 units in sales; and Famue landed on JD.com’s Smart Robot Gold List.

Despite their diverse forms and purposes, these products share a common foundation: Tuya provided critical support in either product innovation or market expansion. On the R&D side, Tuya AI Development Platform helped products rapidly navigate the journey from concept to mass production. On the market side, Tuya opened its localized operational resources and channel access capabilities, paving the way for brands like Fuzozo to enter the global market.

The breakout of these AI hardware products not only confirms that AI hardware is entering the public’s daily life but also validates the maturity and replicability of the AI hardware empowerment model.

Empowering Physical AI Innovation with Full-Stack AI Capability

Underpinning this push is a comprehensive full-stack AI toolkit designed to lower barriers for hardware developers. Tuya has deployed a suite of proprietary technologies including the Personal Voice Activity Detection (PVAD) model, Physical AI Foundation V2.8, WukongAI 3.0, T-RTC real-time communication network, Physical Action Model, and OmniMem V2.0 long-term memory system.

Looking ahead, Tuya will continue to open its global AI cloud platform capabilities and overseas resources to support AI hardware innovators and the emerging “One Person Company” model. Through strategic investments such as Robopoet, Tuya aims to build a new growth model centered on AI platform empowerment, ecosystem collaboration, and global commercialization of AI hardware innovations.

Lao Bullion Bank, MKS PAMP (Hong Kong) Sign MoU on Precious Metals Cooperation

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Advertorial Desk
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On 20 July, Lao Bullion Bank (LBB) and MKS PAMP (Hong Kong) signed an agreement to cooperate on precious metals trading and connect Laos to international bullion markets. (Photo by LBB)

On 20 July, Lao Bullion Bank (LBB) and MKS PAMP (Hong Kong) signed an agreement to cooperate on precious metals trading and connect Laos to international bullion markets.

Chanthone Sitthixay, CEO of LBB, and Damien Han, Head of Sales for Asia Pacific at MKS PAMP (Hong Kong), signed the agreement in Vientiane. Santiphap Phomvihane, Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and The Honorable Christopher Hui, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, attended the ceremony.

The two sides signed the MoU alongside a separate government-to-government agreement between the Lao Ministry of Finance and Hong Kong’s Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau on financial cooperation.

The agreement covers trading, refining, product distribution, technical cooperation, and knowledge exchange. It also allows both organisations to explore collaboration with the Laos-International Precious Metals Refinery (LIPMER), a facility central to Laos’ push to build out its domestic precious metals processing capacity.

MKS PAMP joined Shanghai Gold Exchange International as a founding participant in 2014. It has since taken part in regional milestones, including the first trade in SGE Hong Kong Contracts in 2025 and, in 2026, some of the earliest transactions through Hong Kong Precious Metals Central Clearing, among them one of the first HAU gold trades.

Han said the MoU comes at an important moment for financial cooperation between Laos and Hong Kong. He added that the framework would let both parties pursue cooperation linking Laos’ market development with international precious metals expertise and market practices.

LBB gave no timeline for implementing the cooperation areas the MoU outlines, and neither side disclosed financial terms.

The agreement builds on Laos’ broader effort to position itself in the regional precious metals trade, following the establishment of LIPMER and LBB’s own role in overseeing the sector domestically.

MKS PAMP trades, refines, and mints gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and other platinum group metals, and runs a refinery and mint in Switzerland. The LBMA and the LPPM both approve it as a Good Delivery Referee, one of three organizations worldwide with that status.

Junfa–New Luosiwan and SF International Form Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Yunnan’s Role as China’s Gateway to South and Southeast Asia

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Actively Integrating into China’s Dual Circulation Development Strategy:Junfa–New Luosiwan and SF International Form Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Yunnan’s Role as China’s Gateway to South and Southeast Asia


KUNMING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 July 2026 – On July 20, 2026, Junfa–New Luosiwan and SF International have officially entered into a strategic partnership to jointly develop an Integrated Trade and Logistics Service Platform, marking an important step toward enhancing cross-border trade services and supporting Yunnan’s development as China’s gateway to South and Southeast Asia.

Junfa–New Luosiwan and SF International Form Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Yunnan's Role as China's Gateway to South and Southeast Asia

The signing ceremony, themed “Integrated Trade and Logistics, Connecting the World,” was held at the Conference Hall on the second floor of the Central Lake Building of New Luosiwan Commercial Group.

Officials from the Yunnan Provincial Department of Commerce, the Yunnan Provincial Postal Administration, the Kunming Municipal Bureau of Commerce, the Kunming Port and Logistics Office, the Guandu District People’s Government, and other relevant government agencies attended the event. Also present were Mao Zhenwei, Head of the International Business Group of SF Express Group; Li Jun, Founder of Junfa Group; Li Zhenting, Executive Vice President of Junfa Group; as well as representatives of the New Luosiwan Chamber of Commerce and members of the media, who witnessed the signing of the strategic cooperation agreement.

Through the partnership, the two companies will leverage their respective strengths in commercial resources, logistics networks, supply chain services, and digital capabilities to jointly build an integrated trade and logistics service platform. The platform will support merchants in expanding into international markets while extending services to local communities, creating a new commercial ecosystem that integrates domestic and international trade.

Building an Integrated Service Platform to Empower Global Business Expansion

At the ceremony, Shi Fei, Deputy District Governor and Member of the Leading Party Members Group of the Guandu District People’s Government, highlighted the significance of the partnership, describing it as an important example of collaboration between a major commercial marketplace and a global logistics leader. He noted that the cooperation will contribute to the high-quality development of Guandu District’s commercial sector.

Shi said the Guandu District Government will continue providing proactive support and efficient public services to facilitate platform development, industrial growth, market operations, and enterprise development.

Mao Zhenwei, Head of the International Business Group of SF Express Group, said that SF International will leverage its global logistics infrastructure, including 69 international air routes, customs clearance resources across 94 international gateways, freight forwarding and supply chain services covering 95 countries and regions, and an overseas warehouse network totaling 2.55 million square meters, to provide Junfa–New Luosiwan merchants with integrated supply chain solutions.

These services will cover domestic pickup, international transportation, customs clearance, overseas warehousing, and international delivery, helping merchants reduce logistics costs, improve cross-border circulation efficiency, and accelerate global market expansion.

Li Zhenting, Executive Vice President of Junfa Group, said that Yunnan is continuously advancing its role as China’s gateway to South and Southeast Asia, while the China–Laos Railway continues to strengthen regional connectivity and trade cooperation.

As Junfa–New Luosiwan accelerates its transformation from a traditional commercial marketplace into a comprehensive trade service platform, the partnership with SF International will further enhance its cross-border service capabilities and provide merchants with more efficient and convenient one-stop solutions for expanding into international markets.

Developing a Comprehensive Platform Through a Phased Strategy

Witnessed by government officials, business representatives, and industry partners, Junfa–New Luosiwan and SF International officially signed their strategic cooperation agreement.

Centered on merchants’ cross-border business needs, the two parties will adopt a phased implementation approach to continuously enhance the platform’s supply chain service capabilities.

Phase One: Building a Digital Logistics Service Platform

The first phase will focus on establishing a digital logistics service platform featuring online quotations, intelligent rate comparison, transportation capacity matching, real-time shipment visibility, and unified cargo insurance services.

The platform will improve logistics resource allocation, enhance shipping efficiency, increase supply chain transparency, and gradually develop return cargo matching capabilities to improve logistics resource utilization.

Through digital solutions, merchants will gain access to more efficient logistics coordination, greater shipment visibility, and optimized cross-border transportation services.

Phase Two: Creating an End-to-End Cross-Border Trade Service Platform

The second phase will further integrate key services, including product trading, customs declaration and inspection, cross-border payments, overseas warehousing, and international fulfillment.

By building a comprehensive platform covering the entire cross-border trade process, Junfa–New Luosiwan will provide merchants with more convenient and efficient one-stop services, enabling businesses to connect with global markets more effectively through digital solutions.

The platform will help merchants enhance their international operational capabilities and strengthen their competitiveness in global markets.

Expanding Platform Services to Local Communities

While continuing to strengthen cross-border trade services, the platform will further expand into local consumer markets.

During the event, Junfa Qicai Services Group and SF Yunnan signed a separate cooperation agreement.

Having operated in Yunnan for 28 years, Junfa has established an extensive community ecosystem covering more than 100 residential communities. By leveraging Qicai Services’ community resources and SF’s efficient delivery network, the two companies will jointly improve last-mile delivery capabilities and explore a new service model that delivers quality products directly from suppliers to communities.

The initiative will provide merchants with more stable local sales channels while offering residents more convenient and efficient consumption experiences, further enriching the platform’s service ecosystem.

Building a Sustainable Platform Ecosystem to Support Yunnan’s Opening-Up

The strategic cooperation represents an important practice for Junfa–New Luosiwan in improving its modern commercial service system, while also reflecting SF International’s continued commitment to developing cross-border supply chain services in Yunnan.

Moving forward, the two parties will continue deepening cooperation by enhancing the Integrated Trade and Logistics Service Platform, strengthening cross-border trade service capabilities, expanding merchandise circulation channels, and promoting deeper integration of commercial flows, logistics flows, and information flows.

By leveraging Yunnan’s strategic geographic advantages and actively integrating into China’s Dual Circulation development strategy, the partnership will promote two-way connectivity between domestic and international markets, supporting both global expansion and international business cooperation.

The collaboration will further enhance merchants’ ability to access domestic and overseas markets, contribute to Yunnan’s development as China’s gateway to South and Southeast Asia, and support the establishment of a modern commercial circulation system.

Hashtag: #JunfaNewLuosiwan

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

Laos Warns Public, Businesses Not to Engage with Scam, Gambling Networks

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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Vientiane Capital authorities arrested 589 of suspected scammers in Dongphonsy village, Hatsayfong district, Vientiane Capital, Laos. 18 July 2026. (Photo: Ministry of Public Security).

Laos has warned businesses and the public not to assist online scam or gambling networks, as authorities expand their nationwide crackdown on cybercrime and transnational criminal groups.

A new order issued by the Ministry of Public Security on 15 July directs authorities across the country to step up efforts against cybercrime, online fraud, money laundering, human trafficking, illegal labor, and online gambling.

The order calls for government agencies to establish dedicated task forces and action plans to monitor and suppress criminal networks. It also requires businesses, casino operators, government agencies, and members of the public to report suspicious activities to the authorities.

Businesses and organizations operating CCTV systems must also provide footage to police during criminal investigations.

The ministry warned that individuals, foreign nationals, businesses, hotels, apartment owners, and landlords must not facilitate or provide accommodation, office space, or other support to scam compounds or illegal gambling operations.

Anyone found violating the order could face fines, confiscation of rental deposits, or criminal prosecution. Civil servants, military personnel, and police officers found to have assisted criminal groups could also face disciplinary action or criminal charges.

Crackdown Intensifies

The order comes as Laos steps up enforcement against cybercrime networks operating across the country.

On 18 July, authorities raided a rental complex in Dongphosy village, Hadxaifong District, where they dismantled an online gambling and fraud operation and detained 589 suspects, most of them Thai, Lao, Vietnamese, and Cambodian nationals. Investigators also seized nearly 10,000 desktop computers, laptops, and mobile phones for forensic examination.

The operation followed several other raids in Vientiane Capital earlier this month. On 11 July, police detained 122 suspects during raids on seven rented houses in Sisattanak District. Five days earlier, authorities arrested 26 Chinese nationals accused of running a fake South Korean stock investment scam in Sangthong District. Police also arrested 28 Chinese nationals linked to an online gambling operation at SanJiang Market.

According to Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, authorities arrested 4,482 people connected to cybercrime, online scams, and illegal gambling during the first six months of 2026 alone.

Singapore Launches Anchor Professional Services Centre to Help Businesses Expand Across Asia

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Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 July 2026 – A Singapore company looking to expand into Vietnam may need a lawyer, accountant, tax adviser, HR consultant and local business connections. Today, businesses often have to find these services one by one, in each market they enter.

A new regional network aims to change that.

The Professional Services (PS) Centre Singapore, officially launched today by Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Finance and National Development, is the latest addition to a growing network of Professional Services Centres that connects businesses with trusted professional expertise across Asia.

Located at Level 2 of ISCA House, the Singapore PS Centre will serve as the anchor hub of the regional network, linking businesses to PS Centres in Hongqiao (Shanghai), Ho Chi Minh City and Nanjing, with Jakarta expected to join later this year. Future centres are also planned in Bangkok, Johor Bahru and Shenzhen.

Rather than building another office, the PS Centre is building something different, a trusted regional network where businesses can access local knowledge, professional expertise and business connections through one coordinated platform.

The initiative is led by the PS Centre Alliance, comprising the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises, Institute of Valuers & Appraisers, Singapore Business Federation, Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Singapore Manufacturing Federation, Tax Academy of Singapore, The Law Society of Singapore and the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA).

Helping businesses solve real problems
As businesses expand across borders, the challenges they face have become more complex. They are no longer limited to setting up an office or understanding local regulations. Companies today are responding to geopolitical shifts, changing trade policies, supply chain realignment, AI disruption, cyber risks and growing sustainability expectations, while trying to build trusted relationships in unfamiliar markets. No single profession can solve these challenges alone.

The PS Centre brings together professionals from different disciplines, including legal, accounting, tax, corporate secretarial, HR, valuation, sustainability and business consulting, so businesses can access coordinated support instead of approaching each profession separately.

Beyond professional advice, businesses can tap on local business associations, government agencies, chambers of commerce and ecosystem partners connected through the PS Centre network.

More than a networking platform
The Singapore PS Centre will also introduce the Business Growth Clinic, a new initiative where business owners can bring real business challenges to a multidisciplinary panel of professionals.

Whether the challenge is expanding overseas, adopting AI, raising capital, restructuring a business or planning succession, businesses will receive practical guidance and be connected with the right professionals to help move their plans forward.

Early results from the network
Although the network is still in its early stages, businesses are already seeing results. Through the Shanghai PS Centre, Singapore based accounting firm Unity Assurance secured new business opportunities in China and subsequently established a joint venture with a local partner.

The Nanjing PS Centre supported firms such as Morningstar and Fiducia LLP with local business introductions, office setup and talent connections as they expanded into China. In Vietnam, the Ho Chi Minh City PS Centre has supported Singapore businesses such as Koda Ltd and JDI Ventures in navigating different aspects of regional expansion, such as guidance on pressing cross-border matters and local business introductions to support market entry. The Centre has also connected Vietnamese technology companies such as Techvify and Vinova with relevant networks and market insights to support their entry into Singapore.

These examples demonstrate how trusted local networks can shorten the time needed for businesses to enter new markets while reducing uncertainty.

Strengthening Singapore’s position as a trusted business hub
The Singapore PS Centre complements Singapore’s position as a global business and financial hub by extending trusted professional services into key markets across Asia.

As more centres are established, businesses will be able to tap on one connected network instead of building relationships from scratch in every country.

For Singapore professional services firms, it also creates new opportunities to support clients expanding overseas and to build partnerships with firms across the region.

Mr Lee Boon Teck, President, ISCA, said: “Business is becoming increasingly regional, but professional services are still largely organised country by country. Companies expanding overseas often spend months trying to identify trusted advisers and build local networks. The PS Centre network changes that. We are bringing together trusted professional firms, business associations and local partners across Asia, making it easier for businesses to expand with confidence. Our vision is simple. Wherever a business chooses to grow in Asia, there should be a Professional Services Centre ready to support that journey.”

Ms Junie Fo, Vice President & Head, Professional Services, Singapore Economic Development Board, said “Professional services firms play a critical role in helping Singapore-based enterprises navigate the rapidly evolving global business environment. The Singapore PS Centre will provide access to different professional services to support enterprises’ regional growth needs. EDB looks forward to working with members of the PS Centre Alliance to advance the Professional Services ecosystem.”

About the Professional Services Centre
The Professional Services Centre is a collaborative initiative by the PS Centre Alliance to support businesses expanding across borders through trusted professional expertise, local business networks and market access. The network currently spans Singapore, Hongqiao (Shanghai), Ho Chi Minh City and Nanjing, with further expansion planned across Asia and the Middle East.
Hashtag: #ISCA #CharteredAccountants #ProfessionalServices #ProfessionalServicesCentre #DifferenceMakers #Accounting #Accountancy

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

Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore. Established in 1963, ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the designated entity by the Singapore Ministry of Finance to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore [CA (Singapore)] designation.
ISCA supports over 46,000 members across industries in Singapore and globally, with members in more than 40 countries. With a growing international presence, ISCA has 12 overseas chapters, 7 offices across 10 countries and a network of over 150 strategic partners, strengthening professional connections and opportunities across borders. ISCA is also a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global network representing more than 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students across over 190 countries.
ISCA advances professional development and lifelong learning through ISCA Academy, its training arm and drives community impact through ISCA Cares, its charity arm.
For more information, visit www.isca.org.sg.

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