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Alphamab Oncology Announces Biparatopic HER2-targeting ADC JSKN003 Was Granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation by the FDA for the Treatment of PROC

SUZHOU, China, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Alphamab Oncology (stock code: 9966.HK) announced that the biparatopic HER2-targeting antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) JSKN003, independently developed by the Company, and co-developed with JMT-Bio Technology Co., Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd. (stock code: 1093.HK), has been granted breakthrough therapy designation (BTD) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adult patients with advanced or metastatic platinum-resistant recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancers (PROC) expressing HER2 (IHC 1+, 2+ and 3+) who have received prior treatment with bevacizumab.

Previously, JSKN003 has received approval from FDA to initiate a phase II clinical study for the treatment of PROC not restricted by HER2 expression, has been granted Fast Track Designation (FTD) by the FDA for PROC and has been granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) by the FDA for gastric cancer and gastroesophageal junction cancer (GC/GEJ). It has also been granted BTDs by the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of the National Medical Products Administration of China (NMPA) for both PROC and colorectal cancer (CRC). The grant of this BTD further demonstrates the international regulatory community’s recognition of JSKN003’s clinical potential and its importance as a novel therapeutic candidate. The phase III clinical trial of JSKN003 for the treatment of PROC in China is currently undergoing smoothly.

The grant of BTD for JSKN003 is based on the pooled analysis of the phase I clinical study in Australia (JSKN003-101, NCT05494918) and the phase I/II clinical study in China (JSKN003-102, NCT05744427). The relevant efficacy and safety data of PROC were released at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting.

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the female reproductive system. Most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and the disease is characterized by a high recurrence rate and significant treatment challenges. The standard treatment regimens recommended by authoritative guidelines both domestically and internationally include surgery combined with platinum-based chemotherapy and targeted therapy maintenance. However, about 80% of OC cases recur, and eventually progress to PROC, leaving patients with limited effective treatment options and poor prognosis. The U.S. National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommended single-agent non-platinum chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab as preferred regimens for PROC. However, these non-platinum chemotherapies demonstrate limited efficacy, with an objective response rate (ORR) of only 10% to 15%, a median progression-free survival (mPFS) of only 3 to 4 months, and a median overall survival (OS) of approximately 12 months, highlighting an urgent need for new treatment options. The grant of BTD by FDA will further expedite the clinical development and regulatory review of JSKN003 and bring new choice to patients with PROC worldwide.

About JSKN003

JSKN003 is developed by site-specific conjugation to the Fc glycans of anbenitamab, resulting in a homogeneous and stable ADC with a DAR of 4. JSKN003 binds to two HER2 epitopes on tumor cells and release topoisomerase I inhibitors through cellular endocytosis, exerting anti-tumor effects.

Compared to similar ADCs, JSKN003 demonstrates better serum stability, reduced hematological toxicity, and stronger tumor inhibition and bystander effect, resulting in significantly wider therapeutic window.

Multiple registrational studies of JSKN003 are ongoing, including trials in HER2-positive breast cancer (BC), all-comer platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC), HER2-low BC, and HER2-positive colorectal cancer (CRC).

JSKN003 has been granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for gastric cancer (GC) and gastroesophageal junction cancer (GEJ), has been granted Fast Track Designation (FTD) by the FDA for the treatment of advanced or metastatic platinum-resistant recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer, primary peritoneal cancer, or fallopian tube cancer (PROC), not restricted by HER2 expression, has been granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) by the FDA for the treatment of patients with HER2-expressing PROC who have received prior treatment with bevacizumab. It has also been granted two BTDs by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for PROC and HER2-positive advanced CRC that has failed prior oxaliplatin, fluorouracil, and irinotecan therapy.

In September 2024, the Company entered a licensing agreement with JMT-Bio Technology Co., Ltd. (“JMT-Bio”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd. (“CSPC”) (stock code: 1093.HK). JMT-Bio was granted the exclusive license and sublicense rights to develop, sell, offer for sale and commercialize JSKN003, for tumor-related indications in mainland China (excluding Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan). Alphamab retains exclusive production rights for JSKN003.

About Alphamab Oncology

Alphamab Oncology (Stock Code: 9966.HK) is an innovative biopharmaceutical company focused on oncology. Leveraging proprietary platforms-including single-domain antibodies, bispecific antibodies, glycan-specific conjugation, linker-payloads, dual-payload ADCs, and high-concentration subcutaneous formulations, the Company has built a differentiated and globally competitive pipeline, covering cutting-edge candidates in ADCs, bispecific antibodies, and single-domain antibodies.

One product has received market approval: Envafolimab (KN035, brand name: 恩维达®), the world’s first subcutaneously injected PD-(L)1 inhibitor, offering greater convenience and accessibility in cancer treatment. The NMPA has accepted the new drug application for KN026 (Anbenitamab Injection), a HER2 bispecific antibody, for second-line or later HER2-positive gastric cancer. Four bispecific ADC candidates have entered clinical stages, and next-generation ADC pipelines—such as dual-payload ADCs—are advancing rapidly. The Company has established strategic partnerships with organizations including CSPC, ArriVent, and Glenmark, covering both product development and technology platforms.

Our overarching mission is to make cancer manageable and curable by addressing unmet clinical needs in oncology. Alphamab Oncology is continuously dedicated to the development of effective, safe, and globally competitive anti-tumor drugs, delivering China-innovated cancer therapies to benefit patients worldwide.

Shanghai Electric Powers Up Iraq’s Energy Future with Major 625MW Efficiency Upgrade

Landmark Project Across Four Governorates to Boost Power Plant Output by 50%, Easing Chronic Electricity Shortages

SHANGHAI, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Shanghai Electric has broken ground on the Euphrates Combined Cycle Expansion Project in Iraq. As the project’s contractor, Shanghai Electric is upgrading power plants across four Iraqi governorates by transforming simple-cycle units into combined-cycle systems. The expansion will add a total capacity of 625 megawatts (MW) and is designed to boost overall plant efficiency by approximately 50%, generating an additional 5 billion kilowatt-hprojours (kWh) of electricity annually without increasing fuel consumption. This initiative is poised to significantly alleviate the country’s persistent electricity shortages.

“The pressing need for energy security and development in Iraq is clear. We are honored that our efficient combined-cycle technology is recognized as instrumental in modernizing this critical infrastructure,” said a spokesperson for Shanghai Electric. “This project exemplifies our commitment to supporting the energy security and green development of Belt and Road countries through technological innovation.”

Iraq, a major Middle Eastern oil producer, has faced severe power shortages for over three decades. Most of its power plants rely on natural gas, yet domestic gas development lags, creating a heavy dependence on imports. This power deficit has become a persistent challenge to people’s livelihoods and a bottleneck for national reconstruction and economic growth.

The Shanghai Electric-contracted expansion project along the Euphrates River broke ground early this year and covers the Iraqi governorates of Najaf, Karbala, Babylon, and Al-Qadisiyyah, with all upgrades centered on advanced combined-cycle technology. Core equipment has now arrived on site, and construction is advancing through the collaboration of Chinese and Iraqi teams. Since its commencement, the project has drawn considerable attention from the Iraqi government and public.

Iraqi Minister of Electricity Ziad Ali Fadel has praised the project’s strategic importance, stating, “This initiative is highly significant for improving Iraq’s power supply and optimizing its electricity infrastructure. Once operational, it will effectively reduce Iraq’s reliance on imported natural gas and lower its fuel costs for power generation.”

At the power plant in Najaf, the upgrade utilizes high-temperature exhaust from existing gas turbines as a heat source. The exhaust is directed through heat recovery steam generators to produce high-pressure steam, which then drives a new steam turbine to create additional electricity. This combined-cycle process increases output and efficiency without extra fuel and reduces the thermal pollution from the original units.

Naseem Ayad, the Iraqi project manager at the Najaf site, said, “Chinese equipment and power technology help us reuse high-temperature exhaust, boosting generation capacity while reducing thermal pollution. This project sets a benchmark for power plant upgrades in Iraq and reflects local hopes for more reliable electricity and better living conditions.”

At the Karbala site, core equipment such as heat recovery steam generators and direct air-cooled condensers have been delivered. This project phase marks one of Iraq’s first combined-cycle expansions to fully utilize Chinese equipment and standards, with core systems designed and manufactured in China. This will effectively drive the overseas deployment of Chinese equipment and enhance the recognition of Chinese standards in Iraq.

Upon completion, the project is expected to improve local livelihoods, support post-war reconstruction, and lay a robust energy foundation for Iraq’s industrial recovery and economic growth.

Shanghai Electric remains dedicated to supporting sustainable development in Belt and Road regions and worldwide through advanced, efficient, and eco-friendly energy technologies.

For more information, please visit https://www.shanghai-electric.com/group_en/.

 

Gene Solutions Concludes Successful ESMO Asia Congress 2025 with AI-Powered Multi-Omics Liquid Biopsy Symposium and Two Best Poster Awards

SINGAPORE, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gene Solutions, a pioneering genetic testing company, announced key achievements at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Asia Congress 2025—held in Singapore on December 5–7. Highlights included a full-house symposium, seven scientific abstracts with two earning Best Poster designations, and meaningful engagement with thousands of oncologists from across the Asia-Pacific region at the company’s exhibition booth.

2025 has marked a year of substantial progress for Gene Solutions, with expanded presence and partnerships across India, Turkey, Taiwan region, Hong Kong SAR, and Mainland China. The company advanced precision oncology through Asia’s first multicancer early detection (MCED) test in a large prospective study of 9,024 participants (published in BMC Medicine). In parallel, a real-world circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) molecular residual disease (MRD) study involving 623 patients (published in JCO Oncology Advances, ASCO Publications) demonstrated high accuracy for early relapse detection versus imaging, supporting more timely interventions.

Symposium Highlights: AI-Powered Liquid Biopsy & Multi-Omics Across the Cancer Care Continuum


Chaired by Prof. Herbert Ho Fung Loong (The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR) and Prof. Nick Pavlakis (The University of Sydney, Australia), the symposium — “Ai-powered Liquid Biopsy And Multi-omics In Action: Bridging The Gap In Genomic Insights Across The Asia-pacific Region”— drew a full-house audience. It featured actionable clinical evidence spanning early detection, treatment selection, and post-treatment monitoring.

Faculty included Asst. Prof. Aaron Tan Chia-Ken (National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore), Dr. Le Son Tran and Dr. Dang L. Nguyen (Medical Genetics Institute, Vietnam), and Prof. Aya El Helali (The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR). Key topics addressed:

  • Early detection at scale (SPOT-MAS): A single 10 mL blood, multi-omics assay combining genetic, epigenetic, fragmentomic features through deep-targeted and shallow genome-wide sequencing.
    Trained on data from over 20,000 cancer patients and 25,000 healthy controls, it incorporates retrospective (K-DISCOVERY) and prospective (K-DETEK) cohorts of more than 11,000 asymptomatic individuals, with real-world deployment in over 30,000 people across six Asian countries.
  • Real-world performance of SPOT-MAS in 10 cancers: In a large real-world study comprising 12,281 individuals (median age 43 years) with enrichment for familial cancer risk (24.5%), the assay demonstrated a sensitivity of 78.2%, specificity of 99.8%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 67%, negative predictive value (NPV) of 99.9%, and tumor-of-origin prediction accuracy of 80.3%. These results were comparable to previously reported in the K-DETEK prospective validation study (n = 9,024).
  • Treatment selection & monitoring (K-TRACK ctDNA-MRD): Validated across colorectal, breast, lung, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and gastric cancers to enable risk stratification and earlier intervention. Real-world Asian data indicate ctDNA detection of progression up to 14 months ahead of imaging and identification of resistance mechanisms in metastatic settings.
  • Advanced AI-driven Biomarkers (K-4CARE): The K-4CARE platform integrates DNA profiling (504 genes), transcriptomic profiling (19,435 genes), and longitudinal ctDNA-MRD monitoring—to support precision decision-making, including complex scenarios such as detecting tissue-of-origin with 87.7% prediction accuracy in cancer of unknown primary (CUP) and improving fusion detection by 20%.
  • ESMO consensus: The recent ESMO consensus (EBAI), published in November 2025, provides basic requirements for AI-based biomarkers in oncology – including ground truth, performance, generalizability, fairness and evidence requirements to establish their robustness.

 


Selected faculty insights:

The challenge is balancing multi-cancer early detection performance with affordability—we achieve this via robust feature engineering, supervised machine learning, and high-quality multi-omics training datasets” said Dr. Le Son Tran.

In early-stage cancer, cancers may still recur in some patients despite adjuvant treatment, while some patients may already be cured and do not need additional adjuvant therapy. MRD testing has the potential to transform how we manage these patients by allowing clinicians to escalate or de-escalate treatment more appropriately” added Asst. Prof. Tan Chia-Ken Aaron.

AI driven biomarkers won’t replace molecular testing; they will amplify it—especially when tissue is limited” commented Prof. Herbert Ho Fung Loong.

Scientific Recognition: Seven Abstracts and Two Best Posters


Gene Solutions presented seven posters spanning MCED, tumor profiling, MRD, immunotherapy, and population genetics. Two studies received Best Poster awards:

Best Poster (229P) – Integrated cfRNA + ctDNA Liquid Biopsy for Improved Early Colorectal Cancer ScreeningTrang T. Tran
Best Poster (183P) – Scalable Platform to Produce Allogenic NonGenetically Modified NK Cells and Predict Cytotoxicity in Solid TumorsThu Dao

Additional abstracts:

  • 913P: Multimodal cfDNA assay for early detection of lung cancer in patients with suspicious pulmonary nodules — Ho D. Vo
  • 11P: BRCA1/BRCA2 pathogenic variant spectrum in 14,529 Vietnamese women — Le Phuong Thuy
  • 227P: Integrated genomic & immune profiling improves chemotherapy benefit prediction in resectable colorectal cancer — Tran B. Nguyen
  • 791P: Harnessing multi-omics data from tumor and plasma ctDNA in advanced lung cancer — Phuc Nguyen
  • 784P: Real-world performance of hybrid tumor informed & tumor agnostic ctDNA testing predicting recurrence/progression in Southeast AsiaVan Anh H. Nguyen

Exhibition Engagement:


Live demonstrations and clinical discussions at Gene Solutions’ exhibition booth engaged thousands of oncologists and researchers from across Asia, underscoring the need for accessible, high precision genomic solutions to improve patient outcomes

“Our presence at ESMO Asia program highlighted regionally validated multi-omics solutions—from SPOT-MAS to K-TRACK and K-4CARE—alongside the recognition of our scientific contributions through two Best Poster awards” said Dr. Sinh Nguyen, Oncology Medical Director, Gene Solutions. ”Moving into 2026, we remain committed to enhancing access through costs optimization, and strategic partnerships, enabling broader patient benefit from earlier detection, informed treatment decisions, and real-time monitoring.”

About Gene Solutions

Gene Solutions is a global biotechnology company headquartered in Singapore with a mission to make advanced genomic solutions accessible and affordable. Leveraging multi-omics, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and Artificial Intelligence, the company offers a comprehensive portfolio, including next-generation prenatal screening for fetal and maternal health (triSure), multi-cancer early detection (SPOT-MAS), and comprehensive tumor profiling and ctDNA monitoring (K-TRACK, K-4CARE).

Since 2017, Gene Solutions has performed over three million genetic tests worldwide through CAP-accredited laboratories across multiple markets. Through continuous innovation and strategic collaborations, the company is advancing earlier cancer detection, precision care and reproductive health globally.

For more information, visit www.genesolutions.com or contact pr@genesolutions.com

Important Disclaimer

Tests described may be offered as laboratory-developed tests (LDTs) in CAP-accredited laboratories; availability and regulatory status vary by country/jurisdiction. Results are for professional use only. Performance characteristics are study-specific and may vary by population, setting, or sample quality. This press release contains forward-looking statements based on current expectations regarding study outcomes, test performance, clinical utility, partnerships, and potential benefits. Actual results may differ materially due to risks and uncertainties, including regulatory, clinical, market, and competitive factors. Gene Solutions undertakes no obligation to update these statements.

The 2026 FITUR International Tourism Fair will further consolidate the deepening cooperation and development potential between the tourism industries of China and Spain

Against a backdrop of unparalleled aviation connectivity, China will leverage the FITUR trade fair to elevate its tourism positioning.

MADRID, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2026 FITUR International Tourism Fair, taking place from 21 to 25 January 2026 at Madrid’s IFEMA exhibition centre, will further cement the deepening cooperation between China and Spain’s tourism sectors. According to data from the Spanish National Tourist Board’s Beijing office, Chinese tourist arrivals to Spain reached 163,856 in the first quarter of 2025, representing a 26.12% increase compared to the same period in 2019. Separate statistics from the Chinese Embassy in Madrid indicate approximately 157,000 Spanish travellers visited China in 2024.

The 2026 FITUR International Tourism Fair, taking place from 21 to 25 January 2026 at Madrid's IFEMA exhibition centre, will further cement the deepening cooperation between China and Spain's tourism sectors.
The 2026 FITUR International Tourism Fair, taking place from 21 to 25 January 2026 at Madrid’s IFEMA exhibition centre, will further cement the deepening cooperation between China and Spain’s tourism sectors.

China will occupy a strategic position at FITUR 2026, with the China National Tourism Administration and the tourism authorities of the Macao and Hong Kong Special Administrative Regions participating in an official capacity. Airlines including Cathay Pacific, local tourism bureaus from Shanghai and Beijing, alongside leading tourism technology companies such as Shiji Group and Xiwang, will also join the event. China’s prominence at this year’s fair coincides with enhanced aviation connectivity: China Southern Airlines has recently launched a MadridGuangzhou route, with direct weekly flights projected to reach a record high of 61 during the 2025-2026 winter season.

A report from Spain’s National Tourism Secretariat indicates that by 2025, the country’s tourism sector will benefit from a strong tailwind from the Chinese market. Following a recovery in spending during 2024, China’s outbound travel demand continues to gain momentum. Meanwhile, Spain’s position as a tourism brand has been further consolidated, securing its place among the most popular travel destinations. Meanwhile, the latest data indicates that Chinese tourists’ expenditure in Spain will reach €1.417 billion in 2025, representing a 1.4% increase over 2024. This trend demonstrates Spain’s growing appeal to Chinese visitors, particularly among high-purchasing-power segments.

Regarding China’s overall tourism demand, the Spanish National Tourism Administration notes that both domestic and international source markets are experiencing sustained growth in travel expenditure. By 2026, driven by the lifting of travel restrictions, consumption recovery, and improved air connectivity, China’s domestic source market is projected to grow by 6%, while the international source market is expected to increase by 9% to 10%.

Media Contact: 
Helena Valera
International Press
Tel.: 629 64 42 08
evalera@ifema.es

Alejandra Elorza
Chief Press
Tel.: 629 64 49 68
aelorza@ifema.es 

A new edition of FITUR, the International Tourism Fair held at the IFEMA Madrid exhibition centre, which has established itself as one of the benchmarks for the tourism sector with the presence of 156 countries and an attendance of more than 250,000 people, including professionals and visitors.

 

 

One Universal Production Group (OUP) Officially Opens, Reinforcing Its Position as Asia’s Leading IP Ecosystem and Tourism Company

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — One Universal Production Group (OUP), a leading intellectual property (IP) ecosystem and tourism company in Asia, today celebrated the official opening of its new corporate building, marking a significant milestone in its journey of creating world-class entertainment and edutainment experiences.

From Left to Right :  Mr. Takeshi Hashimoto, Vice President, Tsuburaya Fields Entertainment International  Ms. Apple Teong, Group General Manager, OUP Group  Ms. Genie Teong, Chief Financial Officer, OUP Group  Mr. Alvin Lee, CEO, One Universal Production & Group of Companies  Mr. Michael Lee, International Chairman, MWF International  Mr. Ivan Wong, Head of Asia, Moonbug Entertainment  Mr. W. Wong, President of Bruce Lee Club Hong Kong
From Left to Right : Mr. Takeshi Hashimoto, Vice President, Tsuburaya Fields Entertainment International Ms. Apple Teong, Group General Manager, OUP Group Ms. Genie Teong, Chief Financial Officer, OUP Group Mr. Alvin Lee, CEO, One Universal Production & Group of Companies Mr. Michael Lee, International Chairman, MWF International Mr. Ivan Wong, Head of Asia, Moonbug Entertainment Mr. W. Wong, President of Bruce Lee Club Hong Kong

The opening reflects OUP’s growing role in shaping IP-led entertainment, edutainment, and themed tourism across Asia and beyond. Over the past decade, the company has built a reputation for record-breaking productions and large-scale immersive experiences, earning recognition from the Guinness World Records, ASEAN Book of Records, and Malaysia Book of Records.

OUP is widely known for delivering some of the region’s most successful thematic attractions and live shows, including Ultraman Live 2015, one of Asia’s highest-attended live entertainment productions, the longest-running Pokémon Festival, the world’s largest inflatable duck installation, and award-winning family experiences such as Discover Fun with CoComelon.

As a master licensee and strategic partner to leading global IP owners, OUP manages and develops a diverse portfolio of internationally recognised brands, including CoComelon, Ultraman, Bruce Lee, Blippi, Angry Birds, Crayola, and B.Duck. The company integrates these IPs into immersive attractions, live experiences, retail activations, and tourism developments tailored for Asian audiences.

During the event, OUP formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kayou Cultural Creativity Co., Ltd., China’s largest collectible card company. Under the partnership, Kayou will enter the Malaysian market alongside OUP, introducing new IP-driven collectible products and entertainment concepts aimed at Southeast Asian fans.

OUP also unveiled its upcoming international development roadmap, including the Hadi Excellence Collection – Thematic Safari Villas in the UAE, and the Hadi Premium Collection in Malaysia, featuring Malaysia’s first sea-front crystal-clear lagoon villas.

Commenting on the milestone, Alvin Lee, CEO of One Universal Production & Group of Companies, said the new headquarters represents OUP’s next chapter in delivering world-class, IP-led experiences globally.

 

From Left : Ms. Susan Chen, Southeast Asia General Manager of Kayou Cultural Creativity Co., Ltd.   From Right : Mr. Alvin Lee, CEO, One Universal Production & Group of Companies
From Left : Ms. Susan Chen, Southeast Asia General Manager of Kayou Cultural Creativity Co., Ltd. From Right : Mr. Alvin Lee, CEO, One Universal Production & Group of Companies

FITUR 2026: Promoting Japan’s Tourism Appeal to the International Market

The largest ever Japanese delegation will participate in FITUR 2026, aiming to promote partnerships and global expansion.

MADRID, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Japan’s growing presence in the international tourism market and its close relationship with Spain will be demonstrated at the international tourism fair ‘FITUR 2026’, held at IFEMA Madrid from 21 to 25 January. According to the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO), the number of Spanish visitors to Japan reached approximately 182,300 in 2024, marking a 57.3% increase compared to 2023. A significant turning point was the launch of Iberia Airlines’ direct MadridTokyo service (three weekly flights) in October 2023.

The Spanish Tourism Promotion Agency (Turespaña) announced that Spain welcomed over 410,000 Japanese tourists in 2024.
The Spanish Tourism Promotion Agency (Turespaña) announced that Spain welcomed over 410,000 Japanese tourists in 2024.

Meanwhile, the Spanish Tourism Promotion Agency (Turespaña) announced that Spain welcomed over 410,000 Japanese tourists in 2024. This represents a 32.1% increase year-on-year, with total spending reaching €1.164 billion – a 48% rise compared to 2023. The Japanese market stands out for its exceptionally high daily travel expenditure, ranking among the top markets globally. According to Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE), the number of Japanese visitors increased by a further 8% in the second quarter of 2025.

Moreover, these awareness metrics reflect Spain’s sustained rise in popularity within Japan. A YouGov survey indicates Spain ranked third in “consideration for visiting” and second in “travel intention” for 2025, showing significant growth compared to 2024. Furthermore, satisfaction among travellers who actually visited Spain rose from 58.5% to 68.3%.

Against this backdrop, FITUR 2026 saw the largest ever Japanese delegation participate. Alongside the official representatives from the Japan National Tourism Organisation and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, attendees included the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB), the JTB Group’s global DMC network, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Experience, Himeji Tourism Convention Bureau, JR Tokai Hotels, JTB Global Marketing & Travel, Miki Tourist x HIS, Fujita Kanko (WHG Hotels), Sky Hop Bus Tokyo, DMC Japan by KNT, and numerous operators. Furthermore, FITUR 2026 is expected to see participation from numerous leading Spanish agents specialising in the Japanese market.

This business growth reflects the vitality of Japan’s tourism market, which recorded a record high of 36.8 million international visitors in 2024, a 47.1% increase year-on-year. Consequently, FITUR 2026 will be a crucial platform for strengthening tourism collaboration between Spain and Japan and creating new opportunities for cooperation.

Media Contact:
Helena Valera
International Press
Tel.: 629 64 42 08
evalera@ifema.es

Alejandra Elorza
Chief Press
Tel.: 629 64 49 68
aelorza@ifema.es 

A new edition of FITUR, the International Tourism Fair held at the IFEMA Madrid exhibition centre, which has established itself as one of the benchmarks for the tourism sector with the presence of 156 countries and an attendance of more than 250,000 people, including professionals and visitors.

Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/fitur_japan.jpg

SIM Introduces CareerSense, an AI-Based Career Guidance Platform for Students


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2025 – Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) introduces CareerSense, an AI-powered career guidance application designed to transform how students plan, prepare, and pursue their careers. This initiative reinforces SIM’s commitment to preparing learners for the future of work in an era where technology is reshaping industries and job roles at unprecedented speed.

CareerSense Matters in Today’s Job Market

The global workforce is evolving rapidly. Automation, digitalisation, and emerging technologies are creating new opportunities while presenting new challenges. Navigating this landscape requires more than academic credentials; it demands self-awareness, adaptability, and strategic planning.

CareerSense addresses these needs by combining artificial intelligence with career development expertise, offering a personalised, data-driven approach to job readiness. It functions as a comprehensive career coach, accessible anytime and anywhere.

Key Features That Set CareerSense Apart

CareerSense offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to empower students throughout their career journey. Its AI-driven VIPS profiling evaluates Values, Interests, Personality, and Skills to deliver personalised career recommendations aligned with individual strengths and aspirations. The smart resume builder provides real-time scoring and improvement tips, while the job-matching algorithm connects students to roles that fit their unique profiles. Through integrated access, students can RSVP for events, schedule advisory sessions, and apply for internships and job listings seamlessly. Additionally, the Employability Index measures job readiness and works alongside skill gap analysis and tailored course recommendations to help students stay competitive in today’s dynamic job market.

The Bigger Picture: Empowering Future-Ready Graduates

The future of work is shaped by constant change, technological disruption, and global connectivity. Employers seek individuals who are adaptable, self-aware, and equipped with relevant skills. CareerSense empowers students to take ownership of their career journey, understand their strengths, identify gaps, and build competencies that matter in the real world.

This initiative reflects SIM’s commitment to lifelong learning and employability, ensuring graduates are not only job-ready but future-ready. In a competitive market, CareerSense positions SIM learners as confident, agile professionals prepared to lead in the digital economy.

References:

  1. Introducing CareerSense: Your All-in-One Personalised Career Buddy On-The-Go – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/introducing-careersense-your-all-in-one-personalised-career-buddy-on-the-go
  2. Career Service – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/career-services
  3. SIM Career Sense App (Google Play Store) – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=sg.edu.sim.careersense&hl=en-US&pli=1
  4. SIM Career Sense App (Apple Store) – https://apps.apple.com/sg/app/sim-careersense/id1641839680
  5. Introducing CareerSense: Your Guide to Career Success After Graduation – https://regional.simge.edu.sg/en/introducing-careersense-your-guide-to-career-success-after-graduation/

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit

CASEKOO 2026: Strategy Set, Growth Ahead

NEW YORK, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CASEKOO, a leader in tech accessories, today announced a strategic brand evolution and its preliminary 2026 growth plan. The roadmap centers on a refined user focus and global market expansion.

Refined Brand Strategy and User Focus

CASEKOO is now strategically focused on two core audiences: Innovation Enthusiasts and Style Pioneers. This pivot marks a fundamental evolution from tech accessories to modern lifestyle essentials designed to fit how people live, move, and express themselves—a new ethos that now guides everything from product development to marketing. Every design is crafted to blend purposeful innovation with expressive style, deepening the brand’s bond with its design-conscious, trend-setting users.

To embody this direction, CASEKOO will launch a rejuvenated brand identity—including an updated logo and visual system—in early 2026. This evolution goes beyond aesthetics, reflecting the brand’s renewed clarity, confidence, and relevance in a world where technology and personal identity are inseparable. Aligning with the refreshed look, the brand will also pursue new IP collaborations, carefully selected to reinforce cultural relevance, design leadership, and functional excellence, while upholding its high standards for quality and innovation.

Preliminary Fiscal 2026 Growth Outlook and Market Expansion

Building on this strategic brand foundation, CASEKOO has established a preliminary outlook for its fiscal 2026 growth. The company will intensify its focus on the North American market while actively expanding into Europe and Asia. A core pillar of this strategy is excelling in serving overseas customers by deeply understanding their behaviors, expectations, and shopping preferences.

To drive this international growth, CASEKOO will open new sales channels, including:

  • Optimizing its official online storefront to deliver a more intuitive, conversion-driven customer journey
  • Launching on emerging social commerce platforms such as TikTok Shop
  • Entering key Asian markets through localized marketplaces, including Rakuten in Japan and Coupang in South Korea

This multi-channel approach is designed to build global brand presence and provide a seamless, locally relevant shopping experience for a worldwide audience.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements concerning our strategic plans, brand initiatives, and growth outlook for fiscal 2026. These statements reflect our current expectations and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ due to various factors, including market acceptance, competitive dynamics, supply chain conditions, and the broader global economic environment. CASEKOO intends to update and finalize its detailed fiscal 2026 outlook in early 2026.

About CASEKOO

CASEKOO is a design-led lifestyle brand dedicated to creating style-forward phone accessories for life in motion. Built for Innovation Enthusiasts and Style Pioneers, CASEKOO blends purposeful protection, modern design, and personal expression—empowering individuals to protect what matters while expressing who they are.

Explore our vision and updates at casekoo.com.