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PetroChina Achieves a Strong Start for “the 15th Five-Year Plan” Interim Operating Results for the First Half of 2026 Hit New Record Highs

HONG KONG, Aug. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PetroChina Company Limited [“PetroChina” or the “Company”, (HKSE: 00857; SSE: 601857)] announced that in the first half of 2026, the Company proactively responded to changes in the international situation and volatility in the oil and gas markets, strengthened the organization of production and operations, and deeply advanced quality and efficiency improvement. The two major oil and gas industrial chains remained safe, stable and efficient, the green and low-carbon transition was accelerated, the financial position remained sound, and operating results once again hit a record high for the same period in history. In the first half of 2026, the Company achieved revenue of RMB 1,527.49 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 5.3%, profit attributable to owners of the Company reached RMB 103.94 billion, exceeding RMB 100 billion in a half-year period for the first time and representing a year-on-year increase of 22.0%, and basic earnings per share were RMB 0.57.

Results Review

Oil and gas supply capability was continuously strengthened, with new energy business accelerating development. The Company adhered to efficient exploration, profitable development and the reserves-production balance, intensified conventional oil and gas exploration, and made vigorous efforts to tackle unconventional resources, achieving 6 new discoveries and 19 new developments. The Company cultivated and established two hundred-billion-cubic-meter-level large-scale reserve areas, namely the Cambrian system in northwestern Sichuan Basin and the Cretaceous system in the southern margin of Junggar Basin, as well as one hundred-million-ton-level deep conventional oil reserve area in Tarim Fuman. The Company fully tapped the potential of mature oil and gas fields to improve recovery rates, accelerated the construction of shale oil and shale gas projects including Daqing Gulong, Xinjiang Mabei Fengcheng and western Chongqing in the Oil and Gas Field, and promoted the large-scale production ramp-up of deep coalbed methane in Daji Gas Field and other gas fields. In the first half of the year, the Company recorded oil and gas equivalent output of 921 million barrels, domestic crude oil output of 393 million barrels, and marketable natural gas output of 2.66 trillion cubic feet. Both domestic natural gas output and oil and gas equivalent output reached the best levels for the same period in history. The new energy business continued to accelerate its development. In the first half of the year, the Company generated 5.07 billion kWh of wind and solar power, representing a year-on-year increase of 37.3%, and signed new geothermal heating contracts covering an area exceeding 60 million square meters. The Company initiated the construction of zero-carbon demonstration plants and fully advanced carbon capture, utilization and storage, injecting 1.37 million tons of CO2 in the first half of the year, representing a year-on-year increase of 14.2%. The oil, gas and new energies business achieved an operating profit of RMB 100.45 billion.

Refining transformation advanced toward innovation and excellence, with the new materials business showing abundant highlights. The Company proactively responded to changes in market demand, flexibly adjusted refined products yield and unit operating loads, continuously optimized the product mix, and increased the production and sales of high value-added refining and chemical products. Adhering to the direction of high-end, green and intelligent development, the Company accelerated the construction of key transformation and upgrading projects. The Tarim 1.2 million tons per year phase II ethylene project and the supporting green and low-carbon demonstration project at Dushanzi Petrochemical were completed and brought into operation, becoming China’s first whole-chain green and low-carbon ethylene project. The construction of projects including Blue Ocean New Material Company’s high-end polyolefin project and other projects progressed in an orderly manner. The Company continued to accelerate the development of the new materials business. The thousand-ton-level high-performance carbon fiber project of Jilin Petrochemical commenced construction, and the polyolefin elastomer projects at Guangxi Petrochemical and Daqing Petrochemical advanced at a faster pace. The Company actively deployed the bio-manufacturing business, and the bio-based polyacrylamide project of Daqing Refining & Chemical and the bio-aviation kerosene project of Huabei Petrochemical commenced construction. The Company intensified marketing efforts for chemical products and refining specialty products. Chemical product sales maintained rapid growth, and the domestic market shares of products including bonded marine fuel oil, paraffin, low-sulfur petroleum coke and special asphalt remained first. In the first half of the year, the Company processed 655.0 million barrels of crude oil and produced 54.35 million tons of refined products. Chemical commodity products reached 21.32 million tons, representing a year-on-year increase of 6.7%, and both ethylene and paraxylene output reached new record highs for the same period in history. New materials output reached 2.69 million tons, representing a year-on-year increase of 61.4% and maintaining growth of around 50% for five consecutive years. The refining, chemicals and new materials business realized an operating profit of RMB 14.53 billion.

Marketing capability was continuously strengthened, with the marketing business expanding sales and enhancing profitability. The Company’s domestic marketing business proactively responded to changes in the market situation, continuously strengthened marketing, and enhanced refined marketing in segmented markets. The Company accelerated its transformation pace and continued to vigorously develop vehicle LNG refueling, charging and battery swapping, and non-fuel businesses. In the first half of the year, 592 integrated energy stations were newly established, 208 LNG refueling stations were newly put into operation, and 18,500 charging guns were newly built. The Company’s domestic market share of refined products increased by 0.2 percentage points year-on-year, vehicle LNG retail volume increased by 78.7% as compared with the same period of last year, and charging volume increased by 150%. The profit of the non-fuel business maintained growth, and the gross profit of the international trading business increased. The marketing business achieved an operating profit of RMB 11.36 billion. The natural gas marketing business reasonably optimized the resource structure of domestic and imported natural gas as well as long-term contract and spot natural gas, and endeavored to control procurement costs. The business further optimized the sales flow direction and user structure, with the domestic market share increasing by 1 percentage point as compared with the same period of last year and incremental sales in high-end markets accounting for over 50%. The business also continuously improved the construction of the end-market sales network to constantly enhance service quality and value creation capability. In the first half of the year, the Company sold 161.22 billion cubic meters of natural gas (including LNG), representing a year-on-year increase of 3.9%, of which domestic natural gas sales reached 124.89 billion cubic meters, representing a year-on-year increase of 1.1%. The natural gas marketing business achieved an operating profit of RMB 24.09 billion.

Technological innovation empowered development, with core competitiveness continuously enhanced. Taking innovation as the primary development strategy, the Company vigorously strengthened the construction of an innovation highland for energy and chemicals, established the CNPC Basic Research Institute, coordinated the advancement of applied basic research, basic research and breakthroughs in key core technologies, and continuously promoted the high-efficiency application of research results and the supply of high-quality scientific and technological achievements, comprehensively enhancing its innovation capability and scientific and technological strength. Focusing on its main businesses, the Company intensified research efforts. The Company took the lead in building a national-level continental shale oil demonstration zone. “The Early Formation and Evolution of Petroleum” won the Second Prize of the 2025 National Natural Science Award. The Company vigorously implemented the “Artificial Intelligence Plus” special initiative, and promoted the deep integration of digital and intelligent technologies with the energy and chemical industry as well as the coordinated development of industrial digitalization and digital industrialization. In the first half of the year, the number of newly granted invention patents of the Company increased by 174% year-on-year, and the Company led the development of 4 international standards and 7 national standards.

In the second half of 2026, the Company will closely track the domestic and international macroeconomic situation and the trends of the oil and gas markets, adhere to market-oriented and profitability-centered principles, and uphold the five development strategies of innovation, resources, market, internationalization, and green and low-carbon development. The Company will organize the production and operation of the two major oil and gas industry chains in a safe and stable manner, accelerate the development of the new energy and new materials businesses and the green and environmental protection industry, continuously and deeply promote quality and efficiency improvement, effectively prevent and defuse various risks, and strive to achieve stable growth of the Company’s profitability and steady enhancement of its value.

Additional information on PetroChina is available at the Company’s website: http://www.petrochina.com.cn

Lesotho Launches National Farmers Portal, Giving Every Farmer a Place in a Single Digital Registry

The new registration system, built on Joget DX Enterprise, brings farmer and land information together across all 10 districts, giving the Ministry a stronger foundation to serve farmers.

MOYENI, Lesotho, Aug. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition (MAFSN) has officially launched the Lesotho Farmers Portal, the country’s first national digital platform bringing farmer and land information together in one central registry. The Honourable Selibe Mochoboroane, Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, led the launch in partnership with Vodacom Lesotho. Field officers across all 10 districts will use the platform to register farmers and their land parcels, and to capture information about households, farming activities, livestock, assets and support services.

Prior to the portal, farmer information was held in paper files, spreadsheets and separate district-level records that did not connect to one another. Built by FiscalAdmin Ltd on Joget DX Enterprise platform, the new system replaces that patchwork, giving the Ministry a clearer picture of the country’s agricultural community.

Field officers use the portal to register farmers against their national identity number, capture household, farming, livestock and asset information, and record land parcels with GPS boundaries. Ministry staff can then search and review that data centrally, giving the government a live, national view of the farming population for the first time.

For farmers, formal registration means the Ministry can identify who they are, what they grow or raise, and what support they may need, laying the groundwork for future services such as targeted subsidies and input distribution. For the Ministry, the registry replaces incomplete and scattered records with one verified source of data to guide policy and budget decisions.

The wider platform already includes capabilities for programme applications, eligibility evaluation, decision management and entitlement issuance, which can be introduced as the programme progresses beyond this initial registration phase.

The Farmers Portal is an important step in strengthening how the ministry understands and supports farmers across Lesotho. Having reliable information in one place will help the Ministry better understand the needs of the farmers, plan agricultural programmes and improve the way services are delivered. Transitioning from development into a national service enables the platform to benefit farmers across all 10 districts.

Built for the needs of a public-sector team

The Farmers Portal was delivered by FiscalAdmin Ltd using Joget DX Enterprise, with several partners contributing to the programme. MAFSN owns the registry, the data and the process; the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) provided the programme framework and digital-government methodology; GovStack supplied the Registration Building Block specification and reference architecture; the World Food Programme supported the implementation, including the Joget DX Enterprise licence; and Vodacom Lesotho partnered on the launch and on reaching officers in the field.

The portal was built with the realities of a small public-sector ICT team in mind. Much of the application is managed through configuration rather than traditional software development, including forms, lists, workflows, user access and reference data. This means Ministry staff can maintain information such as districts, villages, crops, livestock types and document types through the system itself, without needing a developer for every change.

“We wanted to build a service that could work at a national scale and still be practical for the people using it every day. The Farmers Portal brings together a number of processes that would otherwise remain separate, while giving the Ministry greater control over its own data.

We built this as a live implementation of the GovStack Registration Building Block, so it needed to hold up under real conditions in the field, not just on paper. Joget’s enterprise application platform enabled a very small team to turn a working prototype into a national service the Ministry can run and maintain on its own, and that is what made the two-year timeline possible.”  said Aare Lapõnin, Founder and CEO, FiscalAdmin Ltd, Technical Delivery Partner.

The delivery approach also used what FiscalAdmin describes as LLM-assisted spec-driven development. An LLM assistant worked against a written specification rather than the live system directly, with each result pushed through the platform’s own API and checked by an automated test suite before release. When something did not work, the fix went back into the specification, not into the system directly.

Raveesh Dewan, President and CEO of Joget Inc., said the project shows how technology can help public-sector organisations build practical digital services while keeping them adaptable as their needs evolve.

“What makes this project meaningful is the real-world problem it addresses. The Ministry needed a better way to understand its farmers and manage information that can support agricultural services across the country. We are proud that Joget could provide the foundation for that work.

The portal also shows how an agentic AI application platform can help a small team build and maintain a national service while leaving room to expand it as new needs emerge.”  continued Raveesh Dewan, President & CEO, Joget Inc..

As registration reaches full national coverage, the Ministry expects to introduce further services building on the registry, including programme applications and input distribution, extending support to farmers across Lesotho.

About Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition (MAFSN)

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition (MAFSN) was first established in 1935 as the Department of Agriculture. Since its inception, like any other government Ministry and/or department, the Ministry has not been immune to transformations and structural changes that have been occurring.

Following a government wide reorganisation and restructuring of Ministries and Departments, the Ministry was renamed Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in 2003.

Today the Ministry is now known as the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition. The Ministry’s principal responsibility is to facilitate sustainable production and productivity of agricultural outputs and promotion of food and nutrition security in the country.

About FiscalAdmin

FiscalAdmin is a software engineering and consulting company established in 2015 in Tallinn, Estonia.

We focus on assessment, modernisation and development services and technologies for tax administrations, ministries of finance, the public sector and international organisations.

Our Tallinn Office, located in the middle of the Nordic startup scene, is focused on the development of products for the new digital age. We develop new operational models for the public sector to help tackle the complexity of digitalisation through the creation of platforms and ecosystems for public finance, revenue management, marketing, e-commerce and public transport.

About Joget

Joget offers an open-source, enterprise Agentic AI application platform that converges no-code/low-code development with AI agents to help organizations rapidly build and customize enterprise applications at scale. By combining AI agents with visual app builders, not raw code, Joget makes app generation faster, safer, and more accessible for business users and developers alike.

With Generative AI and Agentic AI capabilities, Joget Intelligence enables organizations to automate and enhance processes while maintaining oversight and compliance.

Through Vibe Composition, Joget enables AI-assisted application development where AI interprets business intent and assembles applications using governed, pre-validated composable components. Unlike typical AI code generation, Joget’s visual-first approach ensures applications remain maintainable and governed within collaborative human workflows.

As an Application and Integration Fabric, Joget connects legacy and modern systems seamlessly. Its extensible, open-source core and plugin architecture offer unmatched flexibility, and its White Label solution allows OEMs and digital solution providers to fully rebrand the platform.

Trusted by startups, global enterprises, and government agencies, Joget delivers the speed of AI with the control of visual development for scalable, intelligent digital transformation.

Visit www.joget.com and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or YouTube.

Media contact: 

FiscalAdmin: info@fiscaladmin.com

Joget Inc: pr@joget.com 

“Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum 2026” Concludes Three-Day Run with Over 4,000 Participants Exploring Al’s Role in Reshaping Digital Entertainment and Cultural Creative Industries


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 August 2026 – The annual flagship event Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum 2026 (DELF 2026), organised by Cyberport, concluded successfully today. Under the theme “The Dreamatic Circus”, this year’s forum focused on key topics including artificial intelligence (AI), immersive technologies, IP economy development, and innovation in the cultural and creative industries. Over three consecutive days, the forum featured four themed experience zones — Digital Entertainment, Culture and Arts, Smart Living and Business, and Robotics and Drones — bringing together leaders and experts from technology, entertainment, culture and arts, education, and the creative industries to explore the latest trends and directions in empowering content creation, cultural preservation, and business applications through innovative technologies.

The three-day "2026 Cyberport Digital Entertainment Forum" concluded successfully, attracting over 4,000 participants in total.
The three-day “2026 Cyberport Digital Entertainment Forum” concluded successfully, attracting over 4,000 participants in total.

Building on the strong response on the first day, the second and third days focused on creative practice, technology experiences, and community engagement, presenting more than 35 innovative technology showcases, interactive experiences, and exciting activities. Highlights included the immersive interactive art exhibition of the Hong Kong original animation IP Another World, Nikopicto’s interactive phygital activation, Jin Technology Limited’s combat robots, and Genesis ONE’s AI- and 3D-powered fashion platform. The event also featured an Art-Tech Concert, AI game creator workshop, movie screenings, doujin event, and accessible esports experiences, enabling the public to experience first-hand the new possibilities that frontier technologies bring to entertainment, everyday life, and business applications, while showcasing the growth potential and opportunities created by the convergence of AI and digital entertainment.

Dr Rocky Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Cyberport, said, “Artificial intelligence is accelerating transformation across the entertainment and creative industries. It is not only changing the way content is created, but also creating new opportunities for cultural preservation, artistic expression, and industry development. DELF has long served as a cross-sector exchange platform, fostering collaboration among technology companies, creators, industry organisations, and talent to explore innovative application scenarios together. Cyberport will continue to actively promote the integration of AI and the creative industries, nurture I&T talent, and support start-up development, helping Hong Kong strengthen its position as an international innovation and technology centre.”

Spotlighting the Integration of AI Creation and Art-Tech

The second day of the forum centred on creative technology practices, showcasing the latest applications of AI in content creation, art, and entertainment through a series of interactive activities. The “Art-Tech Concert”, powered by the Hong Kong Innovative Technology Development Association, combined innovative technologies with live performance to demonstrate how digital tools can bring new forms of expression to music and the arts. The “Hong Kong AI Game Jam 2026 & Creator Workshop 2026”, powered by Honor U Ministry Ltd & Hong Kong Game Development Association, combined competition and learning, allowing participants to use AI tools for game development and inspiring creative thinking through hands-on challenges and guidance from industry experts. The event also featured the Accessible Gaming and Esports Experience powered by Hong Kong Blind Union.

Film and digital content creation were also key highlights. The event featured Cyberport Academy: DELF 2026 – AI Creative Micro-Academy, enabling the public to explore cutting-edge creative tools from leading brands and learn how to use generative AI and other frontier technologies for audiovisual storytelling, interactive game design, and other content creation. The forum also hosted a masterclass for the original animated film Another World, inviting Ms Polly Yeung, Chief Executive Officer of Gudo Inc., and Ms BeeWon Lee, CEO and producer of SuperString Inc, to share insights of reimagining “Another World” for a global webtoon audience.

In addition, popular programmes including XODIAC: Cosmic Code and Drone Cirque: A Circus in the Air attracted plenty of audience, combining performing arts, visual technology, and interactive entertainment in innovative formats and demonstrating new directions for technology-driven entertainment.

Bringing Together Culture, Education, and Community to Drive Innovation for All

On the final day, the forum further demonstrated the value of technology popularisation and cross-generational inclusion. Powered by Rotary Club of Smart Hong Kong, the “Elderly eSports Tournament & Experience Day” attracted senior participants to take part in various esports and interactive experience activities, showcasing the potential of digital entertainment in promoting social connection, intergenerational exchange, and lifelong learning, while further advancing gerontechnology development.

The event also hosted the “2nd Edition of Gen AI Student Social Challenge Award Ceremony and AI for Culture & IP Forum”, recognising young talent who applied generative AI to address social issues and promote cultural innovation. Industry experts were also invited to discuss how AI can empower the cultural sector and intellectual property development, opening up further possibilities for Hong Kong’s creative economy.

For the creator community, the “Creator Conflicts Doujin Exchange”, powered by Lifetime Memory, brought together illustrators, creators, and anime culture enthusiasts to promote creative exchange and collaboration, highlighting the vibrancy of Hong Kong’s original culture community.

For the movie programme, the event screened the local animation film To a Beautiful Time Gone By, selected works from companies shortlisted under the “Future Animation: 3rd AI-assisted animation production support scheme”, and selected works from the “2nd HKUST AI Film Festival Selected Projects”, including Tai Lung Fung – Full Throttle Kitchen, Tuen Min Vs. Tin Shui Wai, Cirkillation, Project J, In a Second, Where The Ink Stays, and Weaving, showcasing innovative achievements in video creation, animation production, and storytelling.

Three-Day Event Creates an Innovation Experience Platform for AI Entertainment

Throughout DELF 2026, more than 35 interactive experiences were presented, alongside 27 on-site workshops covering applications of AI and innovative technologies. Through the “Play to Earn” campaign, the public was encouraged to explore frontier technology applications while fully enjoying the fun of discovery.

The first day of the forum also facilitated a number of industry and academia collaboration outcomes. Cyberport signed memoranda of understanding with Alibaba Cloud, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and Hong Kong Shue Yan University, covering areas including start-up incubation, AI applications, art-tech project research and development, and talent cultivation, further strengthening collaboration among industry, academia, and research sectors as well as the development of the technology ecosystem.

An “eVTOL Trial Flight Demo“ was also held at Cyberport Waterfront Park, showcasing the latest achievements in Hong Kong’s low-altitude economy and smart mobility. The demonstration attracted close to 1,000 visits and became another highlight of the forum.

Promoting Hong Kong as an International Hub for Digital Entertainment and AI Innovation

Through forum exchanges, creative showcases, technology demonstrations, and community activities, DELF 2026 successfully brought together the strengths of the technology, culture, arts, and entertainment sectors to explore the future development direction of the digital entertainment industry in the AI era.

Cyberport will continue to play its role as Hong Kong’s digital technology hub and AI accelerator, promoting the implementation and application of innovative technologies while nurturing a new generation of I&T and creative talent. Together with the industry, Cyberport will help open a new chapter for Hong Kong’s digital entertainment sector.

Please click here to download high-resolution press photos.

Photo 1 to 2: The three-day “2026 Cyberport Digital Entertainment Forum” concluded successfully, attracting over 4,000 participants in total.
Photo 3 to 4: “eVTOL Trial Flight Demo” conducted a flight demonstration at Cyberport Waterfront Park.
Photo 5 to 7: Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum 2026 showcased a wide range of immersive experience exhibitions and technology products, bringing rich digital entertainment experiences to the public.
Photo 8: The forum brought together more than 60 industry leaders and star speakers to share insights on the application of frontier technologies such as AI and innovation in the content creation industry.
Photo 9 to 11: DELF 2026 “Elderly eSports Tournament & Experience Day” invited Dr Rocky Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Cyberport, and Cheung Mingman, known as “the Patriotic Singer”, as GOH. Hundreds of senior attendees gathered on‑site to experience the fun of e‑sports.
Photo 12: Members of the public joined Cyberport Academy: DELF 2026 – AI Creative Micro-Academy to learn how to use AI and other frontier technologies to support content creation.

Hashtag: #Cyberport #DELF2026 #DigitalEntertainment

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

About Hong Kong Cyberport

Wholly owned by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, Cyberport is Hong Kong’s digital tech hub and AI accelerator, with a vision to empower industry digitalisation and intelligent transformation, to promote digital economy and AI development, and to foster Hong Kong to be an international AI, innovation and technology (I&T) hub. Cyberport gathers over 2,400 companies, including 29 listed companies and 10 unicorns. One-third of onsite companies’ founders come from 28 countries and regions, while Cyberport companies have expanded to over 35 global markets.

Cyberport, with Hong Kong’s largest AI Supercomputing Centre and AI Lab as the engine, has been building the AI ecosystem with industry-leading AI companies and over 500 AI and data science start-ups. Through development of tech clusters, namely AI, data science, blockchain and cybersecurity, Cyberport empowers industries across smart city and government, banking and finance, digital entertainment, culture and tourism, healthcare, education and training, property management, construction, transportation and logistics, green environment and more, while hosting Hong Kong’s largest FinTech community. Commissioned by the HKSAR Government, Cyberport has implemented proof-of-concept and sandbox schemes, subsidisation for digital tech adoption, industry tech training and start-up incubation, to drive technology R&D, translation and commercialisation, thus propelling digital transformation and intelligent upgrade across industry and society.

Also as “State-level Scientific and Technological Enterprise Incubator” and Hong Kong’s key incubator, Cyberport supports entrepreneurs with funding and office space, extensive networks of enterprises, investors, technology corporations and professional services for business growth and expansion to Chinese Mainland and overseas markets, all-round facilitation for landing in Hong Kong, talent attraction and cultivation, ready as a launchpad to take start-ups in any stages of development to the next level.

For more information, please visit .

Ascletis Announces First Participant Dosed in a Global Phase III Clinical Program of Once-Daily Oral Small Molecule GLP-1 Receptor Agonist ASC30 for Chronic Weight Management

– Expected to enroll approximately 4,600 participants with obesity or overweight across two pivotal trials (AURORA-1 and AURORA-2) in the U.S., Europe, and Canada. 

– Global Phase III clinical program to investigate efficacy and safety of three maintenance doses (20 mg, 40 mg, and 60 mg) over 72 weeks in participants with obesity or overweight without type 2 diabetes (AURORA-1) and with type 2 diabetes (AURORA-2).

– Topline data from the AURORA Phase III clinical program are expected in the third quarter of 2028, with a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) New Drug Application (NDA) submission expected by the end of 2028 and European Medicines Agency (EMA) Marketing Authorisation Application (MAA) submission expected in early 2029.

– ASC30 has the potential to become the second oral small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist available in the U.S. and Europe, if approved.

HONG KONG, Aug. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ascletis Pharma Inc. (HKEX: 1672, “Ascletis”) announced that the first participant has been dosed in a global Phase III clinical program of ASC30 for chronic weight management. ASC30 is an investigational, proprietary once-daily oral small molecule glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist being developed for chronic weight management and diabetes.

The global Phase III clinical program consists of two pivotal, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III trials, AURORA-1 (NCT07743463) and AURORA-2 (NCT07743450), evaluating the long-term efficacy, safety, and tolerability of ASC30 once-daily oral tablets in approximately 4,600 participants across clinical sites in the U.S., Europe, and Canada.

“Obesity is a complex, chronic disease associated with over 200 comorbidities and represents an immense global public health burden. While injectable incretin therapies have transformed obesity care, there remains substantial unmet need for an oral small molecule that is effective, well-tolerated, and convenient enough to expand patient access and support long-term adherence.” said Jinzi Jason Wu, Ph.D., Founder, Chairman and CEO of Ascletis, “Dosing the first participant in our AURORA global Phase III clinical program marks a transformative milestone for Ascletis. ASC30 enters this pivotal stage backed by a competitive Phase II weight loss profile, favorable gastrointestinal tolerability, and no observed hepatic safety signals. We believe this foundation supports ASC30’s potential as a category-leading oral therapy, with the goal of bringing patients a once-daily oral GLP-1 option approved globally.”

Ascletis expects to report topline data from the AURORA Phase III clinical program in the third quarter of 2028. The Company expects to submit a New Drug Application (NDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by the end of 2028 and a Marketing Authorisation Application (MAA) to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in early 2029. Ascletis maintains a strong balance sheet with sufficient cash on hand to support operations into 2029, fully funding the program beyond the planned U.S. and European regulatory submissions.

Ascletis has one of the most comprehensive and leading oral small molecule portfolios for obesity. In addition to the AURORA global Phase III monotherapy program, Ascletis is also developing the first tirzepatide-like oral small molecule dual agonist fixed-dose combination GLP-1/GIP (ASC30_48FDC), the first tirzepatide/eloralintide-like oral small molecule triple agonist fixed-dose combination GLP-1/GIP/amylin (ASC30_48_39FDC), and a fixed-dose combination of our small molecule oral GLP-1 and oral amylin (ASC30_39FDC).

About the ASC30 Global Phase III Clinical Program

The ASC30 global Phase III clinical program consists of two pivotal, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III trials, AURORA-1 (NCT07743463) and AURORA-2 (NCT07743450), which are designed to evaluate the long-term efficacy, safety, and tolerability of once-daily oral ASC30 compared to placebo in approximately 4,600 adults living with obesity or overweight, with treatment duration of 72 weeks and across both pivotal trials:

AURORA-1 (NCT07743463): A pivotal trial evaluating efficacy and safety of once-daily oral ASC30 in participants with obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2 with at least one weight-related comorbidity), excluding type 2 diabetes. Participants are randomized to one of three maintenance doses of ASC30 (20 mg, 40 mg, or 60 mg) or placebo. The primary endpoint is the percentage change in body weight from baseline to Week 72.

AURORA-2 (NCT07743450): A pivotal trial evaluating efficacy and safety of once-daily oral ASC30 in participants with obesity or overweight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2) and with type 2 diabetes. Participants are randomized to one of three maintenance doses of ASC30 (20 mg, 40 mg, or 60 mg), or placebo. The primary endpoint is the percentage change in body weight from baseline to Week 72.

About ASC30

ASC30 was discovered and developed in-house by Ascletis as an investigational oral small molecule GLP-1R fully biased agonist. It serves as the primary pillar of Ascletis’ comprehensive, industry-leading oral small molecule obesity portfolio, which also includes fixed-dose combinations spanning GLP-1, GIP, and amylin targets (such as ASC30_48FDC, ASC30_48_39FDC and ASC30_39FDC) to provide convenient, one-pill, once-daily treatment options for people living with obesity and other metabolic diseases.

About Ascletis Pharma Inc.

Ascletis Pharma Inc. is a fully integrated biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of potentially best-in-class and first-in-class therapeutics to treat metabolic diseases. Utilizing its proprietary Artificial Intelligence-assisted Structure-Based Drug Discovery (AISBDD) and Ultra-Long-Acting Platform (ULAP) technologies as well as Peptide Oral Transport ENhancement Technology (POTENT), Ascletis has developed multiple drug candidates in-house, including both small molecules and peptides, such as its lead program, ASC30, a once-daily oral small molecule GLP-1R agonist for chronic weight management and diabetes; ASC30_48FDC, a once-daily oral small molecule dual agonist, a fixed dose combination of ASC30 (GLP-1R agonist) and ASC48 (GIPR agonist), ASC30_48_39FDC, a once-daily oral small molecule triple agonist, a fixed dose combination of ASC30 (GLP-1R agonist), ASC48 (GIPR agonist) and ASC39 (amylin receptor agonist (SARA)), ASC39, an eloralintide-like potent selective amylin receptor agonist (SARA) once-daily oral small molecule, ASC30_39FDC, a once-daily oral small molecule dual agonist, a fixed dose combination of ASC30 (GLP-1R agonist) and ASC39 (amylin receptor agonist (SARA)), ASC36, an amylin peptide, designed to be administered once monthly to once quarterly subcutaneously and once daily orally, ASC35, a once-monthly subcutaneously administered GLP-1R/GIPR dual peptide agonist, ASC36_35FDC, a once-monthly subcutaneous triple peptide agonist, a fixed combination of ASC36 (amylin receptor agonist) and ASC35 (GLP-1R/GIPR agonist), ASC37, a GLP-1R/GIPR/GCGR triple peptide agonist, designed to be administered once monthly subcutaneously and once daily orally, and ASC36_37FDC, a once-monthly subcutaneous quadruple peptide agonist, a fixed dose combination of ASC36 (amylin receptor agonist) and ASC37 (GLP-1R/GIPR/GCGR agonist), for chronic weight management. Ascletis is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (1672.HK).

For more information, please visit www.ascletis.com. 

Contact:

Peter Vozzo
ICR Healthcare
443-231-0505 (U.S.)
Peter.vozzo@icrhealthcare.com 

Ascletis Pharma Inc. PR and IR Teams
+86-181-0650-9129 (China)
pr@ascletis.com
ir@ascletis.com

ATTACK SHARK Unveils R86 HE Carbon Fiber Magnetic Switch Gaming Keyboard, Redefining the 75% Competitive Keyboard Experience

NEW YORK, Aug. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Gaming peripheral brand ATTACK SHARK has announced the launch of the R86 HE Carbon Fiber Magnetic Switch Gaming Keyboard, a flagship model designed to elevate expectations for high-end competitive gaming keyboards. Scheduled for release on 7 September 2026, the R86 HE is among the few magnetic switch keyboards to combine a 75% layout with a carbon fiber composite top case, bringing together advanced materials, precision magnetic switch technology, refined acoustics, and extensive customization.

ATTACK SHARK Unveils R86 HE
ATTACK SHARK Unveils R86 HE

As magnetic switch technology becomes a key driver of innovation in the gaming peripheral market, user expectations have expanded beyond speed alone. Today’s players are increasingly seeking a combination of performance, build quality, sound, and personalization. The R86 HE answers those demands with a carbon fiber composite structure, tournament-grade magnetic switch performance, and a Hi-Fi-inspired acoustic design, creating a new-generation 82-key gaming keyboard that balances competitive capability with everyday usability.

Carbon Fiber Construction Meets Practical 75% Layout

The R86 HE features a compact 82-key, 75% layout that retains dedicated arrow keys and essential functions while saving valuable desk space. Designed for both competitive gaming and everyday productivity, it delivers functionality without the bulk of larger keyboards.

Its premium design combines a carbon fiber composite top case with anodized CNC aluminum alloy side accents, creating a distinctive flagship look inspired by high-performance materials. The forged carbon texture offers exceptional rigidity and durability, while carbon fiber composite keycaps provide a crisp, consistent typing feel suited to fast-paced gaming.

0.005mm Rapid Trigger Accuracy for Competitive Play

In competitive FPS titles, a perfectly timed counter-strafe can be the difference between landing a decisive shot and missing a critical opportunity. The R86 HE’s 0.005mm Rapid Trigger Accuracy enables extremely precise key reset and actuation control, helping players transition seamlessly between movement and aiming. Combined with a custom esports chipset featuring 256K scanning and an 8000Hz polling rate, the keyboard achieves response times as low as 0.08ms, delivering the speed and consistency needed for fast-paced competitive gameplay.

Hi-Fi Acoustics for a Refined Typing Experience

Magnetic switch keyboards are often defined by speed, but the R86 HE goes beyond raw performance. A five-layer sound-dampening structure, comprising PE foam, IXPE switch pads, PET acoustic film, switch socket foam, and bottom silicone padding, helps reduce unwanted resonance for a cleaner, more refined typing sound. A premium fiberglass positioning plate enhances stability and feedback, while custom Huano Glass Jade magnetic switches balance ultra-fast responsiveness with a crisp, satisfying acoustic profile.

Built for Personalization

The R86 HE supports multiple high-performance magnetic switches and independent curve tuning, enabling personalized actuation settings for different gaming styles.

Full-key RGB lighting and dual-side dynamic light strips add visual impact, while web-based and PC software provide convenient access to key mapping, switch adjustments, and other customization options.

More than a high-performance gaming keyboard, the ATTACK SHARK R86 HE represents a fusion of advanced materials, acoustic engineering, and competitive-grade technology. By combining a unique 75% layout, carbon fiber flagship design, Hi-Fi acoustics, and 0.005mm Rapid Trigger Accuracy, it introduces a distinctive new option for users seeking both elite performance and premium craftsmanship.

For more information, visit https://attackshark.com/ or connect with the brand on social media and Discord.

To place an order, visit ATTACK SHARK Amazon Store for the US, UK, Europe, Australia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

Yaber Launches Cordless Vacuum HP20: TÜV-Tested 180AW Suction, SGS-certified H13 HEPA Filtration, and SenseCleanAI AI Detection Under $200

NEW YORK, Aug. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Yaber announced the launch of the Yaber HP20 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, redefining what budget–conscious consumers can expect, featuring TÜV–certified true 180AW suction, SGS–verified H13 HEPA filtration, and SenseClean AI that automatically adjusts power based on real-time debris detection.

Yaber HP20
Yaber HP20

TÜV–tested 180AW Suction Powerful Performance from Floor to Carpet

Compared to other low-aw vacuums, The HP20 delivers genuine TÜV–tested 180AW suction – a rarity in this price bracket. Its stiff–bristle roller brush effectively loosens embedded dirt from carpets and floors, while the powerful airflow lifts even stubborn debris, leaving surfaces spotless. Unlike ordinary vacuums, the HP20’s cyclone technology ensures consistent, fade–free performance from start to finish – so you never have to worry about weakening pickup halfway through cleaning.

SGS-certified H13 HEPA Filtration for Healthier Homes

Beyond visible dirt, the HP20 features a sealed 5–stage filtration system with H13 HEPA media, certified by SGS to capture 99.97% of microscopic particles, including fine dust, pollen, and pet dander under lab conditions. An anti–backflow design prevents contaminants from escaping back into the air – making it a top choice for families with children, pets, or allergy–sensitive members.

Auto-Suction Based on Dust Level by SenseClean AI Technology

No more manual mode switching. Equipped with Yaber’s SenseClean AI technology, the HP20 scans the floor thousands of times per second to detect dust levels in real time. It then automatically adjusts suction power – high for heavy messes, low for light dust – optimizing cleaning efficiency while maximizing battery life, so you clean smarter, not harder.

Visible Cleaning with Green LED Light and Versatile Attachments

To help users clean areas often overlooked, the HP20 incorporates a green LED dust detection light, revealing hidden dust, pet hair, and fine particles that ordinary lighting may miss.

Combined with an adjustable extension tube and multiple cleaning accessories, the HP20 easily converts into a handheld cleaner for stairs, furniture, sofas, car interiors, corners, baseboards, and other hard-to-reach spaces.

Pricing and Availability

The Yaber HP20 is now live on Amazon’s official Yaber store:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0H2LWWYCX?maas=maas_adg_2F3844CE879126CA012EB35527CF1C50_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas&th=1. For a limited time, apply code HP20PANPR at checkout to enjoy the exclusive launch price of $139.99. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience premium cleaning performance at an exceptional value.

The HKAGE Programme Showcase Day – From AI Robotic Arms to Star Charts Spark a Unique Learning Journey

HONG KONG, Aug. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — While many students are still making their final preparations for the new school year, more than 350 student members of the Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education (HKAGE, or the Academy) have already embarked on a distinctive start to their learning year. The Academy held three sessions of “Programme Showcase Day 2026” on 28 and 29 August, offering a diverse range of programme experiences that allowed student members to explore the Academy’s various gifted education courses for the coming year – covering areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), astronomy, environmental science, forensic science, art, and creative writing – thereby embarking on a new year of gifted learning.

Student members operate an AI robotic arm designed by senior students to identify and move objects.
Student members operate an AI robotic arm designed by senior students to identify and move objects.

Several top education leaders were invited to serve as officiating guests, including Dr LAM Tat Ho Lander, Chief Curriculum Development Officer (Gifted Education) of the Education Bureau; Prof WOO Kam Tim, Chairperson of the Talent Development Committee; and Principal WAN Shuk Fan Suki, Chairperson of the School and Student Services Committee. Drawing on their own rich learning and teaching experiences, they encouraged student members to discover their personal interests and potential, and to actively embrace the learning challenges ahead.

Diverse Programmes Inspire Members to Explore Their Interests

To enable students to explore different learning domains before the start of the new school year, seven themed interactive booths were set up for the Programme Showcase Day. Student members explored different classrooms at the Academy, engaging in hands-on interactive learning activities in a lively atmosphere:

  • “Young Astronomers: Discover the Night Sky!“ – themed around astronomy and stargazing, participants were guided in using telescopes, star charts, and smart telescopes to learn about constellations, celestial motion, and the movements of the Moon and planets, sparking their curiosity about astronomy;
  • “AI Arms in Action: Innovation for Social Good“ – showcased student members’ designs and creations from AI programmes, where participants could input commands on the spot to control robotic arms to identify and move objects, experiencing first-hand the application of AI technology. Senior students shared with their peers how the programmes integrate knowledge from AI, engineering, biomechanics, and product design, as well as their visits to elderly centres, explaining how they use creativity, knowledge, and technology to design innovative solutions for seniors and other people in need, improving quality of life through technology;
  • Other booths included “Inclusive Storybook Corner“ – related to art and creative expression, where participants experienced using picture books and experiential games to promote the concept of inclusion in the community; “Forensic Science in Fiber Analysis“ – learning to explore forensic science knowledge through experiments, inquiry, and hands-on activities; “Environmental Science: Guardians of Our Urban Wildlife“ – an environmental science programme exploring Hong Kong’s forest history, seed dispersal mechanisms, and field studies on native tree planting; and “Maker Workshop“ – an innovation and technology programme covering the entire process from design and fabrication to the use of various tools.

At the opening ceremony, Dr LAM Tat Ho Lander, Chief Curriculum Development Officer (Gifted Education) of the Education Bureau; Prof WOO Kam Tim, Chairperson of the Talent Development Committee; and Principal WAN Shuk Fan Suki, Chairperson of the School and Student Services, each delivered a speech encouraging students to seize learning opportunities, expand their knowledge, enhance their capabilities, and unleash their creativity, so as to become future talents who possess both moral integrity and a sense of social responsibility.

The three guests pointed out that in an era of rapid AI development and rapid technological advancement, students should not only build a solid knowledge foundation, but also cultivate innovative thinking, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. They should learn to make good use of technology and integrate knowledge across disciplines, so as to play to their strengths and contribute to the community in the future development of society and the global community.

Mr WONG Chung Po, Acting Executive Director of the HKAGE, said that through the Programme Showcase Day, the Academy hopes to offer student members a first-hand experience of the unique appeal of its gifted education programmes. By providing learning opportunities beyond the regular school curriculum, the Academy aims to ignite the passion for learning among gifted students. Through the provision of learning platform for student members, the Academy assists them in discovering their potential and enables them to plan ahead to enrol in their preferred gifted programmes at the earliest opportunity.

About the HKAGE
Established in 2008 and subvented by the Education Bureau, the HKAGE offers gifted education services actively to local primary and secondary school students to unleash their potential. It also provides gifted education-related information and support for teachers, parents, and other relevant stakeholders.

Flooding Disrupts Flights to Luang Namtha, Oudomxay Also Reports Flooding

Floodwaters rise in Oudomxay Province on 30 August as heavy rains continue to affect northern Laos.

Lao Airlines has suspended flights between Vientiane and Luang Namtha after after rising waters affected Luang Namtha Airport, as flooding also spreads into neighboring Oudomxay Province.

The airline said flights on the route will remain suspended until conditions at the airport are safe. Passengers with affected tickets can change their travel dates without additional fees or request a full refund.

Flooding hit the Boten area of Luang Namtha on 29 August, with authorities warning residents in low-lying areas to closely monitor water levels and follow safety instructions.

Luang Namtha Province was officially declared a disaster zone on 30 August, as the conditions in the northern province continued to deteriorate.

Oudomxay, which shares a border with Luang Namtha, also reported heavy flooding on 30 August. So far, officials haven’t provided any details on the extent of the damage, how many people are affected, or if there’s any missing-person reports.

The current floods follows heavy rainfall across northern Laos.

Flood Risk in Northern Laos

The region has faced severe flooding in recent years.

In September 2024, Typhoon Yagi brought heavy rain to northern Laos, triggering widespread flooding and landslides. Luang Namtha was among the worst-affected provinces, with homes, farmland and infrastructure damaged and roads cut off. The first floor of the provincial hospital was flooded, while Luang Namtha Airport was temporarily closed after floodwaters affected the runway.

At least one person died in Luang Namtha during the 2024 flooding after being swept away by strong currents while attempting to help others. Authorities evacuated residents from affected areas and established temporary shelters and aid distribution centers.

The disaster also affected other northern provinces, including Oudomxay, Bokeo and Luang Prabang.

For now, authorities have yet to provide a full assessment of the latest flooding in Luang Namtha and Oudomxay.

The situation remains developing, with further information on damage, evacuations and possible casualties expected as authorities assess affected areas.