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International Skin Health Foundation Hosts Annual Thematic Event 2024 “Caring for Skin, Health and Beauty”

International Conference on The Science behind skincare, Skin Analysis & Skincare Knowledge


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – The International Skin Health Foundation successfully held its Opening Ceremony and its annual thematic event, “Caring for Skin, Health and Beauty”, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Mong Kok, Hong Kong.

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The Inauguration Ceremony featured opening speeches by Professor Zheng Zhizhong, Chairman of the International Skin Health Foundation and Chief Physician at Fudan University Huashan Hospital, and Professor Xiang Leihong, Executive Director of the International Skin Health Foundation and also Chief Physician at Fudan University Huashan Hospital. Professor He Li, founding board member of the International Skin Health Foundation and Chief Physician at the Yunnan Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Kunming Medical University, shared their valuable insights on skin health. The event aimed to enhance public awareness of skin health while providing practical and suitable treatment plan, attracting numerous guests, experts, media representatives.

Addressing the ceremony, Chairman of the International Skin Health

Foundation and Chief Physician at Fudan University Huashan Hospital, Professor Zheng Zhizhong remarked, “Skin health is a reflection of people’s pursuit of health and a higher quality of life. With the rapid development of society, skin issues such as acne, skin allergies, Atopic Dermatitis, athlete’s foot, and Cholasma have become increasingly prevalent due to environmental factors, dietary habits, and lifestyle changes. The increasing public awareness of health issues, including acqire dermatological information and those platforms on dermatological awareness and prventive behaviours. In response to the mission of promoting health and giving back to the community through public service, the International Skin Health Foundation was established.” Founded in 2021, the foundation is a non-profit charitable organisation that took several years to establish. Its mission is to use a non-profit, socially beneficial platform to promote, enhance, and disseminate skin health education, raise awareness of self-care, and foster collaboration between industry, academia, and research to advance skin health awareness, prevent skin diseases, and reduce the distress caused by problematic skin. It aims to guide the public in adopting healthy lifestyles to prevent skin issues, find information on diagnosis, treatment and prevention for skin conditions caused by allergies, certain diseases, immune system problems and more, thereby promoting public skin health and beauty for the benefit of society.

Following this, Professor Xiang Leihong outlined the foundation’s development plan for the next five to ten years, stating that work will be carried out across the following dimensions: promoting skin health knowledge, advancing collaboration between industry and academia, mastering skincare methods and product applications, enhancing life experiences, and benefiting the community; facilitating academic collaboration and exchange in the field of dermatology within Asia, particularly in mainland China and Hong Kong, to improve research and prevention levels for skin diseases and advance the industry; establishing research funding schemes to provide financial support to non-profit organisations involved in skin research, promoting academic exchange in skin disease prevention and treatment; offering free community education and training programmes related to skin management, enhancing the professionalism of practitioners in the field of skin health, and advancing public education on skin diseases; providing appropriate support to patients with skin diseases in need, such as charitable donations and assistance related to treatment and prevention. She stated, “The pursuit of public welfare ideals is a meaningful and endless journey. We look forward to continued concern and support from all parties to contribute to the development of healthy living and public welfare.”

The skin health popular science lecture was delivered by Professor He Li, who elaborated on the characteristics and care methods for the skin of the elderly:

1. Skin Structure

The skin is the largest organ of the human body, covering the entire surface and serving as the body’s natural outer garment, playing a vital protective role. It is the most sensitive organ to changes in the external environment. When the skin is injured, the epidermis is usually the first to be affected. The stratum corneum forms a brick wall structure, providing a strong barrier to retain moisture and protect skin health. It offers comprehensive defence against ultraviolet rays, microorganisms, and various physical and chemical stimuli, while also locking in bodily moisture to maintain internal stability.

2. Characteristics of Elderly Skin

As age increases, bodily functions decline, including skin structure and function. The stability of the stratum corneum’s brick wall structure decreases, leading to reduced moisture retention and weakened resistance.

Additionally, the skin’s cell renewal ability declines, and sebaceous and sweat glands atrophy, resulting in decreased sebum secretion. This causes elderly skin to thin, dry out, lose elasticity, develop pigmentation, produce wrinkles, and experience various age-related skin diseases. Common conditions include xerotic eczema, psoriasis, chronic actinic dermatitis, and senile pruritus (skin appears normal but is associated with recurrent itching). Although various factors contribute to these skin diseases, the dry air during autumn and winter reduces the moisture content of the skin’s surface, compounded by decreased sebum secretion in the elderly, which leads to dryness and impaired skin barrier function, making them sensitive to external stimuli and causing discomfort such as itching.

3. Key Points for Elderly Skincare

Elderly individuals should pay attention to skin hydration throughout all seasons and avoid frequent bathing. They should consistently use moisturising skincare products all over the body to prevent the aforementioned age-related skin issues from arising. Additionally, sun protection is crucial; when going outdoors, they should wear hats, use umbrellas, and apply sunscreen to prevent long-term ultraviolet exposure and the risk of skin cancer. Professor He emphasised, “Elderly individuals must focus on skin hydration throughout the year, avoid frequent bathing, and use moisturising skincare products, especially during autumn and winter. Furthermore, sun protection is essential; appropriate measures should be taken to prevent UV damage to the skin when outdoors.”

During the event, participants actively exchanged skincare experiences and insights, creating a lively atmosphere that further conveyed the concepts of care and health. The International Skin Health Foundation hopes that this event will promote societal awareness of skin health and help the public establish a scientific skincare perspective. The foundation will continue to uphold its public welfare mission and strive to promote skin health management and self-care concepts, providing the public with more professional guidance and support.

We extend our gratitude to all guests, experts, media representatives, and volunteers who participated in this event for their support and efforts, contributing to its success. The International Skin Health Foundation looks forward to continuing to work together with everyone in the days to come to improve public skin health.

Hashtag: #InternationalSkinHealthFoundation

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

Gorilla Technology Sets New Networking Infrastructure Benchmark with Launch of the Game-Changing Gorilla Intelligent Network Director

Redefining Network Infrastructure – Simplified, Secure and Built for Tomorrow


LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – Newsfile Corp. – 14 October 2024 – Gorilla Technology Group Inc. (NASDAQ: GRRR) (“Gorilla” or the “Company”), is proud to announce the launch of Gorilla Intelligent Network Director – a groundbreaking platform designed to simplify connectivity and amplify productivity for businesses of all sizes.

In an era where businesses cannot afford even a moment of downtime, traditional networks are becoming obsolete. Gorilla Intelligent Network Director shatters those limitations with a future-ready solution that merges intelligent automation, seamless integration and security; all wrapped into one platform.

Dr. Rajesh Natarajan, CTO of Gorilla Technology Group, captures the significance of this launch:

“Today’s businesses are built on data, but they are often held hostage by networks that can’t keep up. With the Gorilla Intelligent Network Director, we are freeing businesses from these constraints. This isn’t just a product launch, it’s a new way of thinking about connectivity and growth. We’ve designed this platform to empower businesses to move faster, innovate fearlessly and scale without limits. Our team has worked tirelessly to create a solution that not only meets today’s demands but is also adaptable for the future, ensuring our clients are always one step ahead.”

Why Gorilla Intelligent Network Director Stands Apart:

  • Unmatched Control and Real-Time Intelligence – Gain a clear, instant view of your entire network on a single dashboard. Identify issues before they disrupt operations, ensuring that nothing slows you down.
  • True Hybrid Agility – Effortlessly bridge on-premise systems with private and public clouds, allowing for tailor-made solutions that adapt to your specific business needs. No more ‘one-size-fits-all’ networks; this is truly your network, your way.
  • Built-In Security for the Modern Age – Protect your data with first-class encryption and proactive threat detection across your network.
  • Seamless, Scalable Deployment – Whether you’re a fast-growing start-up, or an established global enterprise, the plug-and-play design means instant deployment without the hassle.

The Next Step in Network Evolution Starts Now

The Gorilla Intelligent Network Director is now available for Proof of Concept (PoC) trials. Forward-thinking enterprises have the exclusive opportunity to be among the first to experience this revolutionary platform, offering their insights and shaping the final version. Full market release is expected in the second half of 2025, bringing the power of Gorilla Intelligent Network Director to businesses worldwide.

Dr. Natarajan added, “This is an opportunity for companies to not only witness the future of networking but to help shape it. By collaborating with us through the Proof-of-Concept phase, businesses can influence the final product and be among the first to leverage a solution that will set new standards in network management. The Intelligent Network Director is poised to redefine speed, security and simplicity; setting a new benchmark for the entire industry.”

About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

Headquartered in London U.K., Gorilla is a global solution provider in Security Intelligence, Network Intelligence, Business Intelligence and IoT technology. We provide a wide range of solutions, including, Smart City, Network, Video, Security Convergence and IoT, across select verticals of Government & Public Services, Manufacturing, Telecom, Retail, Transportation & Logistics, Healthcare and Education, by using AI and Deep Learning Technologies.

Our expertise lies in revolutionizing urban operations, bolstering security and enhancing resilience. We deliver pioneering products that harness the power of AI in intelligent video surveillance, facial recognition, license plate recognition, edge computing, post-event analytics and advanced cybersecurity technologies. By integrating these AI-driven technologies, we empower Smart Cities to enhance efficiency, safety and cybersecurity measures, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents.

For more information, please visit our website: Gorilla-Technology.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which are based on estimates, assumptions, and expectations. Actual results and performance could differ materially and adversely from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements. Gorilla does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

Investor Relations Contact:

Dave Gentry
RedChip Companies, Inc.
1-407-644-4256
GRRR@redchip.com

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

About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

Sunlight Real Estate Investment Trust (“Sunlight REIT”) Achieves a Four-Star Rating in the 2024 GRESB Real Estate Assessment

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – Henderson Sunlight Asset Management Limited (the “Manager“) is pleased to announce that Sunlight REIT has achieved a four-star rating in the 2024 GRESB Real Estate Assessment (“GRESB Assessment“), the leading global environmental, social and governance (“ESG“) benchmark in the real estate sector.

Mr. Wu Shiu Kee, Keith, Chief Executive Officer of the Manager, said, “We are delighted and honoured to have received a four-star rating in the latest GRESB Assessment – this recognition is a testament to the Manager’s unwavering commitment and ability to advance sustainability by integrating ESG values into the management and operations of Sunlight REIT. As a responsible landlord, we will continue to adhere to the overriding principle of striking a balance between profit, planet and people, and will strive to foster a culture of care and innovation to transit into a low-carbon economy and to create shared values for our stakeholders.”

Incidental to the change of financial year end date of Sunlight REIT from 30 June to 31 December, the next sustainability report of Sunlight REIT will cover an 18-month period from 1 July 2023 to 31 December 2024. To keep stakeholders abreast of the latest progress, the Manager will shortly upload an interim sustainability review to the corporate website of Sunlight REIT, providing a snapshot of the sustainability performance of Sunlight REIT for the 12 months ended 30 June 2024.

GRESB is a mission-driven and industry-led organization which provides a rigorous methodology and consistent framework to measure the ESG performance of real estate assets and portfolios. In 2023, more than 2,000 property companies, REITs, funds and developers with US7.2 trillion in assets participated, covering over 170,000 assets across 75 countries. Sunlight REIT has participated in GRESB Assessment since 2022.
Hashtag: #SunlightREIT #REIT

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

About Sunlight REIT

Listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited since 21 December 2006, Sunlight REIT (stock code: 435) is a real estate investment trust authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission and constituted by the trust deed dated 26 May 2006 (as amended and restated) (the “Trust Deed“). It offers investors the opportunity to invest in a diversified portfolio of 11 office and six retail properties in Hong Kong with a total gross rentable area of approximately 1.3 million sq. ft.. The office properties are located in both core and decentralized business areas, while the retail properties are situated in regional transportation hubs, new towns and urban areas with high population density.

About the Manager

The Manager of Sunlight REIT is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Henderson Land Development Company Limited. Its main responsibility is to manage Sunlight REIT and all of its assets in accordance with the Trust Deed in the sole interest of its unitholders.

ASEAN Summits Conclude with Key Agreements, Leadership Transition to Malaysia

ASEAN Summits Conclude with Key Agreements, Leadership Transition to Malaysia
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone hands over the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during the closing ceremony of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in Vientiane (Photo Credit: Bernama)

The 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, held from 6-11 October in Vientiane, concluded with key agreements aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and addressing global challenges, alongside a leadership transition to Malaysia. 

A total of sixteen meetings brought together leaders from ASEAN member states and external partners, including Australia, Canada, China, South Korea, India, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, and the United States, among others. 

Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, as ASEAN Chair for 2024, led discussions that resulted in the adoption of over 90 outcome documents. These documents addressed key areas such as regional security, economic cooperation, sustainable development, and digital transformation.

Key Outcomes and External Cooperation

Among the adopted documents were the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Strengthening Supply Chain Connectivity, the ASEAN Declaration on Promoting Sustainable Agriculture, and the Declaration on Strengthening Regional Biosafety and Biosecurity.

Additionally, leaders endorsed the Strategic Plans to Implement the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which will guide ASEAN’s long-term goals for a resilient, innovative, and people-centered community.

The summits also reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to resolving the Myanmar crisis through the Five-Point Consensus, while acknowledging progress in Timor-Leste’s path toward ASEAN membership.

ASEAN also strengthened its relations with partners, resulting in several agreements, including the ASEAN-China Joint Statements on combating telecommunications fraud, advancing smart agriculture, and facilitating cooperation in digital ecosystems, along with negotiations to upgrade the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0. The ASEAN-Republic of Korea Summit elevated bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, while the ASEAN-India Summit emphasized digital transformation and collaboration under India’s Act East Policy. The ASEAN-Canada Special Summit adopted a joint statement focused on enhancing connectivity and resilience.

At the closing ceremony, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone handed over the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who will lead ASEAN in 2025 under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability.’ Laos’ chairmanship will officially conclude on 31 December.

Capital Links Forum Highlights Opportunities, Barriers to Investment in Laos

Capital Links Forum, Vientiane, Laos, 11 October.

On 11 October, Laos hosted the “Capital Links Forum” at the Souphattra Hotel in Vientiane, bringing together financial institutions, investors, policymakers, and fintech innovators. The event focused on the significant barriers hindering capital mobilization in the country, sparking critical discussions about how to unlock Laos’s economic potential.

Laos has long been an attractive economic and infrastructure partner for its neighbors, thanks to its strategic location in Southeast Asia. Many see great potential in Laos as a connecting hub for regional trade and investment. Recent initiatives, such as the “Land Locked to Land Linked” project—part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative—aim to enhance infrastructure and promote economic integration within the ASEAN region.

“The first time I came (to Laos), over a decade ago, there wasn’t much infrastructure development,” said Hongwei Wang, CEO of CGIF, a collaboration project involving ASEAN +3 and the Asian Development Bank. “Importing goods was challenging. Now, improved connectivity makes a big difference.”

Despite these advancements in physical connectivity, the financial landscape remains underdeveloped, especially in rural areas. Many residents lack access to formal banking services, resulting in what participants at the event referred to as a “capital lock.” This phenomenon restricts the efficient flow of investments that are vital for unlocking Laos’s economic potential.

In this context, Wang emphasized the importance of establishing a local currency bond market, which is essential for initiating the country’s first steps in bond issuance. One crucial aspect of Laos’s economic development is the establishment of a local currency bond market, Wang explained. 

Issuers in this market must meet specific criteria, but the advantages are substantial, according to Wang. With this in mind, CGIF’s support includes significant credit investments, allowing issuers to raise large amounts of capital. Previously, bonds could only be issued for up to three years; now, they can extend to five years. This extension is expected to positively impact the country’s economy in the long run, providing more stability and opportunities for growth.

“A larger investment base provides users with more opportunities. As we pursue this work, it’s essential to adhere to social and environmental standards, which is a crucial aspect of our mission,” Wang said. “What we offer to investors is an unconditional guarantee. This means that investors are 100 percent protected, no matter the circumstances. This level of security is one of the key benefits we provide.”

GCIF aims to contribute to regional financial integration through this project. 

Capital Links Forum, 11 October. (Photo supplied)

Addressing Financial Accessibility, Innovation

Throughout the day, attendees engaged in discussions about the challenges facing Laos’s financial sector. They highlighted the concentration of economic activity in Vientiane, which limits opportunities for development in other regions. Participants pointed out that an underdeveloped capital market, regulatory hurdles, and inadequate financial infrastructure are significant obstacles to attracting investment.

A major theme that emerged was the pressing need for improved access to financial services. Expanding banking facilities and financial products to underserved rural communities could foster greater economic participation and investment throughout the country.

“Blockchain may sound intimidating, but it’s something we engage with every day. It helps us simplify complex concepts. For example, in Thailand, we collaborate with specialists, and we’re currently building platforms that connect directly with customers,” said Vachara Aemavat, Co-founder and Co-CEO of SIX Network, he blockchain platform for reinventing the Digital Economy, and Co-founder of Computerlogy, a leading startup in Thailand that develops social media tools for enterprises, offering a variety of products such as social media analytics, command centers, and chatbots.

“Blockchain has been around for 5 to 10 years; we’re now in its second cycle. The real challenge is finding ways to generate revenue from this technology. While cryptocurrency appears significant, with around 3 million users, it’s still relatively small compared to the larger market,” he added.

In addition to identifying challenges, the event also brought up potential solutions, exploring successful financial products and innovative fintech solutions from other regions, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology to enhance capital market connectivity. Discussions also focused on the impact of digital platforms on financial market efficiency, presenting a pathway for Laos to modernize its financial infrastructure.

Tech Path to Economic Resilience, Growth

As the tech startup scene gains momentum across the region, the qualities required for success are becoming clearer. Natavudh Pungcharoenpong, Founder and CEO of OOKBEE and Co-CEO of SIX Network, emphasized the importance of a strong entrepreneurial spirit. 

“In the early stages, it’s not just about being a tech expert; the entrepreneur must be resilient and visionary,” he said. “You need the ability to attract talented individuals who share your vision. Having good people on your team is crucial.” 

Natavudh also highlighted the necessity of financial acumen, “You need to secure funding to pay these talented individuals.” 

According to the tech expert, vision, talent, and funding forms are the foundations for successful tech entrepreneurs.

Natavudh Pungcharoenpong speaking at a panel, Capital Links Forum, Vientiane, Laos, 11 October. (Photo supplied)

When discussing the pitfalls of tech entrepreneurship, Natavudh pointed to timing as a critical factor in a startup’s success. 

“Launching at the right moment is vital, especially in a saturated market filled with innovative ideas and strong competition,” he explained. 

Without sufficient funding, even the best ideas can falter. “Tech development takes time, and without adequate financial resources, many startups struggle to scale.” He advised aspiring entrepreneurs to ensure they have someone on their team who excels in fundraising, as this can be a decisive factor in overcoming the challenges of growth.

Natavudh also recognizes the importance of community and local connections in building a successful tech venture. 

“The networking effect in local communities can be incredibly powerful. People know each other and are willing to help one another,” he notes. Drawing from his experiences in Thailand and Laos, he explains how collaborating with local entrepreneurs can offer a significant advantage. 

However, he also recognizes the value of seeking external partnerships to broaden a startup’s reach. 

“Given the smaller market size, working with outside investors or partners can be essential for growth,” he said.

The event’s alignment with the priorities of the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit 2024 strengthens Laos’s commitment to economic connectivity and resilience. As the nation transforms from a land-locked to a land-linked country, the discussions highlighted the crucial role of breaking down barriers to capital flow.

By addressing these financial challenges, Laos can better position itself as a key player in the ASEAN economy, attracting cross-border investments.

AOC Masters 2024 Local Qualifiers Conclude: A Global Valorant Showdown Awaits in Bangkok


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – The AOC Masters 2024 “Born to Battle” local qualifiers have reached their conclusion, setting the stage for an exhilarating grand final event in Bangkok, Thailand. After months of intense competition spanning nine regions, anticipation for the ultimate Valorant showdown is at an all-time high.

AOC Masters 2024 “Born to Battle”
AOC Masters 2024 “Born to Battle”

With over 400 players, including prominent influencers, participating in the regional qualifiers, the competition has been fierce. The top two elite players from each region will now head to the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center on October 19, 2024, competing in 1v1, 2v2, and team show matches for glory and a share of the impressive $30,000 prize pool.

The qualifiers were designed to bring out the best in each competitor. Players battled it out in Valorant’s Spike Rush mode during 1v1 matches, showcasing their skills in a best-of-three format over a series lasting up to 35 minutes. This structure ensured that only the strongest players would advance to the grand finals, amplifying the excitement for fans and players alike.

Advancing to the grand finals will include winners from Australia, Indonesia, Middle East and Africa, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. Fans will be able to find their favourite KOLs participating in the event, such as Guzz and Zenox from Australia, Rissa Nicole Raymundo Grumal from the Philippines, NEO and Plumy from South Korea, 湘湘 Kanna and 早安嚕乙 Luyee from Taiwan, and Hanakoishi from Vietnam.

Fans and eSports enthusiasts can look forward to an electrifying series of matches that promise intense competition. Join AOC in celebrating the spirit of competition as players from around the globe prepare for the AOC Masters 2024 Grand Final. Don’t miss a moment of this exciting event at https://www.instagram.com/agonbyaocap/ .

Hashtag: #AGONbyAOC #AOCMonitor #AOCMasters #valorant #Esports #GamingMonitor



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

About AOC

Founded in 1967, AOC is a globally leading monitor and IT accessories brand and a subsidiary of TPV Technology Limited, the world’s largest LCD manufacturer. AOC’s comprehensive product portfolio provides innovative, ergonomic, environmentally conscious and stylish solutions for professional as well as personal applications.

The AGON by AOC sub-brand of offers one of the world’s strongest portfolios of high-performance gaming monitors, and a complete ecosystem of gaming accessories grouped in three categories: AOC GAMING for core gamers, AGON for competitive gamers, and AGON PRO for eSports enthusiasts and professional eSports players. Since 2020, AGON by AOC has been one of the leading gaming monitor brands and a top choice of gamers worldwide.

For more information, please refer to AGON by AOC’s official or follow AGON by AOC on .

Canadian Prime Minister Visits MRC, Marking Historic Milestone in Development Cooperation

Canadian PM and MRCS CEO

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada made an official visit to the Mekong River Commission (MRC) headquarters in Vientiane, Laos, on 11 October, becoming the first head of government from an MRC Development Partner to visit the organization.

Taobao and Tmall Group Kicks Off 11.11 Global Shopping Festival 2024 with RMB30 Billion of Consumer Benefits


HANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – Taobao and Tmall Group (“TTG”), Alibaba Group’s domestic commerce business, is kicking off its 16th 11.11 Global Shopping Festival (“11.11” or “Festival”) today by putting users first with unprecedented shopping incentives. TTG will offer RMB30 billion ( ~US$4.2 billion) worth of vouchers and red packets in anticipation of the record-high volume of users participating in this year’s Festival.

“This year’s 11.11 is unfolding as Chinese consumer sentiment is improving. TTG serves China’s largest and most valuable consumer base, and is well positioned to capture and further boost rising consumer confidence and activity,” Bo Liu, Vice President of Alibaba Group and President of Tmall, said. “We are making unprecedented investments to incentivize our users and support our brands and merchants to drive high-quality growth. We are excited about the high level of merchant participation and robust product offerings, which have exceeded expectations. We have strong confidence in branded products sales growth this 11.11.”

The presale of 11.11 will begin at 8:00 p.m. Beijing time on October 14. There will be two checkout periods: the first one from 8:00 p.m. on October 21 until the end of the day on October 24 and the second one from 8:00 p.m. on October 31 until the end of the day on November 11.

For consumers: doubling down on 88VIP membership

Driven by our user-first strategy, TTG is accelerating user investment this 11.11. The platforms will offer RMB30 billion worth of spending incentives through coupons and red packets, on top of a 15% discount and “RMB50 off every RMB300” promotion.

TTG will double down on exclusive benefits and services for its 88VIP members, currently the largest paid e-commerce membership in China with over 42 million paying members. 88VIPs will receive exclusive high-value coupons, the total value of which will be greater than the RMB20 billion distributed last year. They will also enjoy exclusive interest-free installment payment privileges and premium return service.

The value and frequency of product categories vouchers and red packets distributions will progressively increase throughout the Festival. For example, Taobao Live, the live-streaming commerce channel, will distribute RMB2 billion worth of red packets in conjunction with merchants and partners. Each user can collect up to RMB1,500 daily across the live stream rooms.

The RMB10 Billion Subsidy program features the best deals for branded products and offers discounts of up to 80% off. To date, this program has over 500 million active users.

User experience has been further improved this 11.11 with easy-to-understand product information and a new payment option. TTG team will work with merchants to ensure simplified pricing on the product listing page so users can easily see the final sale price. The introduction of WeChat Pay in late September also offers mainland China users an additional payment option for their purchases.

For merchants: Robust measures to capture the most significant growth opportunities

This year’s Festival will host around 300,000 brands and a multitude of SME merchants, with the number of products on offer exceeding expectations. In the September quarter, the number of newly launched brands on Tmall increased by 70% quarter-over-quarter. This is a strong testimonial for TTG’s latest industry-leading support initiatives to help merchants achieve quality growth within a cost-efficient and optimized operating environment.

For this 11.11, TTG will invest RMB10 billion to boost cross-platform traffic and RMB3 billion to subsidize merchants’ marketing costs. Commissions will be waived for Taobao store owners participating in 11.11.

These investments are in addition to previously announced merchant support initiatives introduced ahead of the Festival, including:

  • Optimization of “refund-only” policy: Since the launch of the upgraded policy in August, Taobao has intercepted over 400,000 unreasonable “refund-only” transactions daily. At the same time, the proportion of merchants with high Store Experience Scores (4.8 or above) has increased to 36%. The increase in high-quality merchants has reduced Taobao’s intervention for refund-only scenarios.
  • Reduction in Return Logistics Costs: Tuihuobao, a new return service launched in September, has served ~1 million merchants. It has reduced merchant return order logistics costs by 23% in the past week. TTG will also offer discounts for SMEs during this 11.11, further reducing their logistics costs for return orders.
  • Upgraded AI Tools for Merchants: The AI-powered analytics platform Business Advisor has served over three million Taobao SMEs since April. TTG’s AI tools for image and text generation are frequently used by over one million merchants weekly. 74% of merchants using TTG’s AI image generation tools have reported savings equivalent to hiring a full-time graphics designer.

Hashtag: #Double11 #TaobaoTmall #TTG #Alibaba

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