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The 2nd International Cerebro-cardiovascular Medical Innovation Summit (ICMIS 2025) Opens in Hong Kong: AI Technology and Digital Health Usher in a New Chapter of Translational Medicine.

HONG KONG, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cerebro-cardiovascular conditions have continued to pose a public health burden. The convergence of population ageing and lifestyle risk factors has made “earlier detection, earlier intervention, and accessible and affordable prevention and management” a common challenge for global healthcare systems. Concurrently, the rapid development of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital health platforms, and medical imaging has brought new possibilities for related risk assessment, early screening, risk stratification, and precision therapy. However, bridging the gap between “Research—Clinic—Community” still relies on the joint development that is cross-disciplinary, cross-institutional, and cross-regional collaboration mechanisms, and an innovation ecosystem.

In this context, the 2nd International Cerebro-cardiovascular Medical Innovation Summit (ICMIS 2025), organised by the InnoHK Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), was successfully convened today at Hong Kong Science Park. As a flagship academic event in the cerebro-cardiovascular health, this year’s summit brought together distinguished experts and scholars from world-leading institutions, including the University of Oxford, Johns Hopkins University, Cornell University, the University of Hong Kong, and City University of Hong Kong, as well as leaders from the medical industry. The first day’s agenda focused on three core themes: digital health and AI-enabled healthcare technology, medical imaging and community healthcare, and translational clinical solutions. Academic leaders and industry pioneers from across the globe engaged in rigorous intellectual exchange, collectively exploring innovative strategies to address pressing global challenges in cerebro-cardiovascular health.

Deepening Cross-Sector Collaboration to Address Global Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Challenges

The summit’s opening ceremony was an esteemed gathering, uniting leading figures from government, academia, and industry, and setting a high-level international tone for the event. Several eminent guests delivered speeches, presenting a forward-looking blueprint for the future of cerebro-cardiovascular health engineering and medical innovation. Their insights spanned multiple dimensions, including policy support, clinical needs, industry development, and academic innovation, underscoring a collective commitment to driving progress in this critical field.

Prof. Dong SUN, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of HKSAR, stated that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, making this summit a vital platform for interdisciplinary exchange to address these critical challenges. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to develop Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre. Highlighting InnoHK as a flagship initiative, he praised COCHE for its significant advancements in AI-powered imaging and biosensing through strategic partnerships with world-leading institutions. He also stated that the Government is expediting the establishment of the third InnoHK research cluster which focus on sustainable development, energy, advanced manufacturing, and materials to further improve the I&T ecosystem in Hong Kong.

Prof. Junbo GE, President of Chinese Medical Doctor Association Cardiovascular Society and Chinese Cardiovascular Alliance, emphasized that the greatest breakthroughs in cardiovascular medicine never happen in isolation but live at the intersection of clinicians, engineers, and industry partners. He underscored the fact that the summit is not just about sharing knowledge but about building a “common language” to create the future of Cerebral-Cardiovascular health, encouraging all scientists and entrepreneurs to “reach across the aisle” for innovation.

Mr Terry WONG, CEO of Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), expressed his great pleasure in co-hosting the summit with the Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE). He acknowledged COCHE’s visionary leadership in bridging the gap between medical research and real-world application, noting that their efforts are essential for empowering the next generation of health tech innovators to deliver tangible clinical and commercial impact. Describing ICMIS 2025 as a landmark event, he highlighted how the summit has brought together global communities in a shared mission to build a healthier world. Mr Wong also emphasised that HKSTP offers a comprehensive innovation and technology ecosystem, home to over 300 life and health technology companies, all working to build a strong pipeline from deep research to commercialisation. He looks forward to continuing close collaboration with partners across sectors to help innovation-driven companies thrive at HKSTP.

Prof. Michael Yang Mengsu, Senior Vice-President (Innovation and Enterprise) of CityUHK, highlighted that the summit focuses on the latest advancements in digital health, AI-enabled technologies, and medical imaging. He emphasized that COCHE is at the center of this revolution by combining engineering, life sciences, and data science to develop innovative solutions that make healthcare more effective and accessible.

At the end of the opening ceremony, Ir. Prof. Kannie W.Y. CHAN, Director, Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE) , Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of electrical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong , Adjunct Professor, Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University , delivered the opening address for the summit. She announced a flagship initiative for 2026, the C2 Health Guardian Program, which aims to serve 5,000 participants in public housing through a collaboration with Yan Chai Hospital Board. She emphasized that the vision of COCHE is to connect community care, hospital care, and home care through an integrated database to prioritize prevention and accessible healthcare.

Forging Strategic Partnerships, Building an International Collaborative Network, and Integrating Industry, Academia, Research, and Medicine

During the opening ceremony, COCHE held The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremonies with Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and Corporate-M, officially announcing closer international collaboration in the field of cerebro-cardiovascular health engineering.

COCHE will partner with Corporate M to launch a large-scale longitudinal community study on preventive care for cerebro-cardiovascular conditions and early Alzheimer’s detection, while joining forces with Ruijin Hospital to co-develop innovative medical products and establish a joint ShanghaiHong Kong international innovation medical center.

The signing of the MOUs not only further consolidated Hong Kong’s substantive collaboration with top mainland and international medical institutions in cerebro-cardiovascular research and medical innovation, but also highlighted Hong Kong’s important role as a key hub connecting China’s medical technology ecosystem with the world. By combining Ruijin Hospital’s clinical strengths, Corporate-M ‘s experience in medical imaging and commercialisation, along with local innovation resources and policy support, COCHE is expected to accelerate the translation of a series of cutting-edge research results from the laboratory to clinical and community applications.

Converging Wisdom to Navigate the Future: Three Frontier Topics Define the New Landscape of Cerebro-cardiovascular Healthcare

The first day’s main forum centered on three main sessions: “Digital Health and AI-enabled Healthcare Technology,” “Medical Imaging and Community Healthcare for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Management,” and “Navigating Global Innovation Pathways. From Scientific Discovery to Clinical Study,” collectively presenting the complete pathway for cerebro-cardiovascular medical innovation from early detection – risk prevention – clinical care – to large-scale implementation.

Digital Health and AI Technology: Driving Early Detection and Precision Prevention

Breakthroughs in Artificial Intelligence and multi-modal data analytic technologies are leading the healthcare model to shift from passive treatment to active prevention. Through AI-enabled ultrasound detection and digital health solutions, the accuracy of early screening for high-risk diseases such as congenital heart disease and stroke has significantly improved, effectively advancing healthcare and laying the technical foundation for a front-loaded, intelligent, active health management system.

Advanced Medical Imaging and Community Health Management: Transforming “Visible” into “Manageable”

The evolution of Molecular Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and theranostic imaging technologies is dedicated to transforming highly sophisticated imaging methods into widely accessible tools for community health protection. By establishing effective pathways from clinical guidelines to community implementation, advanced imaging technologies are breaking down hospital walls, achieving “seeing is believing” precision screening, and becoming the key visual support for the full-cycle management of public cerebro-cardiovascular health.

From Research to Clinic: Accelerating the Application of Innovative Technologies

Addressing the translational challenge of moving “from bench to bedside,” regenerative medicine, gene therapy, and AI imaging technologies are rapidly integrating into actual clinical workflows. By deepening cross-sector collaboration across industry, academia, research, and medicine, non-invasive technologies and innovative therapies are overcoming R&D barriers, effectively shortening the translation cycle, and promoting the widespread application and commercialisation of global frontier medical achievements in clinical settings.

The first day of ICMIS 2025 successfully concluded in a vibrant atmosphere of academic exchange. From macro-level strategic cooperation signings to micro-level imaging technology breakthroughs, from AI algorithms for precision screening to the clinical practice of regenerative medicine, the forum not only fully showcased the latest technological achievements in the cerebro-cardiovascular field but also built a high-level platform for dialogue and collaboration for global experts, transcending disciplinary and geographical boundaries. On the agenda for the second day, the summit further focused on the commercialisation and ecosystem-building of medical innovation, providing a platform for promising cerebro-cardiovascular research projects to present their findings and connect with international experts and investors.

The 2nd International Cerebro-cardiovascular Medical Innovation Summit (ICMIS 2025) Opens in Hong Kong: AI Technology and Digital Health Usher in a New Chapter of Translational Medicine.

HONG KONG, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cerebro-cardiovascular conditions have continued to pose a public health burden. The convergence of population ageing and lifestyle risk factors has made “earlier detection, earlier intervention, and accessible and affordable prevention and management” a common challenge for global healthcare systems. Concurrently, the rapid development of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital health platforms, and medical imaging has brought new possibilities for related risk assessment, early screening, risk stratification, and precision therapy. However, bridging the gap between “Research—Clinic—Community” still relies on the joint development that is cross-disciplinary, cross-institutional, and cross-regional collaboration mechanisms, and an innovation ecosystem.

In this context, the 2nd International Cerebro-cardiovascular Medical Innovation Summit (ICMIS 2025), organised by the InnoHK Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), was successfully convened today at Hong Kong Science Park. As a flagship academic event in the cerebro-cardiovascular health, this year’s summit brought together distinguished experts and scholars from world-leading institutions, including the University of Oxford, Johns Hopkins University, Cornell University, the University of Hong Kong, and City University of Hong Kong, as well as leaders from the medical industry. The first day’s agenda focused on three core themes: digital health and AI-enabled healthcare technology, medical imaging and community healthcare, and translational clinical solutions. Academic leaders and industry pioneers from across the globe engaged in rigorous intellectual exchange, collectively exploring innovative strategies to address pressing global challenges in cerebro-cardiovascular health.

Deepening Cross-Sector Collaboration to Address Global Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Challenges

The summit’s opening ceremony was an esteemed gathering, uniting leading figures from government, academia, and industry, and setting a high-level international tone for the event. Several eminent guests delivered speeches, presenting a forward-looking blueprint for the future of cerebro-cardiovascular health engineering and medical innovation. Their insights spanned multiple dimensions, including policy support, clinical needs, industry development, and academic innovation, underscoring a collective commitment to driving progress in this critical field.

Prof. Dong SUN, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of HKSAR, stated that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, making this summit a vital platform for interdisciplinary exchange to address these critical challenges. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to develop Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre. Highlighting InnoHK as a flagship initiative, he praised COCHE for its significant advancements in AI-powered imaging and biosensing through strategic partnerships with world-leading institutions. He also stated that the Government is expediting the establishment of the third InnoHK research cluster which focus on sustainable development, energy, advanced manufacturing, and materials to further improve the I&T ecosystem in Hong Kong.

Prof. Junbo GE, President of Chinese Medical Doctor Association Cardiovascular Society and Chinese Cardiovascular Alliance, emphasized that the greatest breakthroughs in cardiovascular medicine never happen in isolation but live at the intersection of clinicians, engineers, and industry partners. He underscored the fact that the summit is not just about sharing knowledge but about building a “common language” to create the future of Cerebral-Cardiovascular health, encouraging all scientists and entrepreneurs to “reach across the aisle” for innovation.

Mr Terry WONG, CEO of Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), expressed his great pleasure in co-hosting the summit with the Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE). He acknowledged COCHE’s visionary leadership in bridging the gap between medical research and real-world application, noting that their efforts are essential for empowering the next generation of health tech innovators to deliver tangible clinical and commercial impact. Describing ICMIS 2025 as a landmark event, he highlighted how the summit has brought together global communities in a shared mission to build a healthier world. Mr Wong also emphasised that HKSTP offers a comprehensive innovation and technology ecosystem, home to over 300 life and health technology companies, all working to build a strong pipeline from deep research to commercialisation. He looks forward to continuing close collaboration with partners across sectors to help innovation-driven companies thrive at HKSTP.

Prof. Michael Yang Mengsu, Senior Vice-President (Innovation and Enterprise) of CityUHK, highlighted that the summit focuses on the latest advancements in digital health, AI-enabled technologies, and medical imaging. He emphasized that COCHE is at the center of this revolution by combining engineering, life sciences, and data science to develop innovative solutions that make healthcare more effective and accessible.

At the end of the opening ceremony, Ir. Prof. Kannie W.Y. CHAN, Director, Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE) , Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of electrical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong , Adjunct Professor, Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University , delivered the opening address for the summit. She announced a flagship initiative for 2026, the C2 Health Guardian Program, which aims to serve 5,000 participants in public housing through a collaboration with Yan Chai Hospital Board. She emphasized that the vision of COCHE is to connect community care, hospital care, and home care through an integrated database to prioritize prevention and accessible healthcare.

Forging Strategic Partnerships, Building an International Collaborative Network, and Integrating Industry, Academia, Research, and Medicine

During the opening ceremony, COCHE held The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremonies with Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and Corporate-M, officially announcing closer international collaboration in the field of cerebro-cardiovascular health engineering.

COCHE will partner with Corporate M to launch a large-scale longitudinal community study on preventive care for cerebro-cardiovascular conditions and early Alzheimer’s detection, while joining forces with Ruijin Hospital to co-develop innovative medical products and establish a joint ShanghaiHong Kong international innovation medical center.

The signing of the MOUs not only further consolidated Hong Kong’s substantive collaboration with top mainland and international medical institutions in cerebro-cardiovascular research and medical innovation, but also highlighted Hong Kong’s important role as a key hub connecting China’s medical technology ecosystem with the world. By combining Ruijin Hospital’s clinical strengths, Corporate-M ‘s experience in medical imaging and commercialisation, along with local innovation resources and policy support, COCHE is expected to accelerate the translation of a series of cutting-edge research results from the laboratory to clinical and community applications.

Converging Wisdom to Navigate the Future: Three Frontier Topics Define the New Landscape of Cerebro-cardiovascular Healthcare

The first day’s main forum centered on three main sessions: “Digital Health and AI-enabled Healthcare Technology,” “Medical Imaging and Community Healthcare for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Management,” and “Navigating Global Innovation Pathways. From Scientific Discovery to Clinical Study,” collectively presenting the complete pathway for cerebro-cardiovascular medical innovation from early detection – risk prevention – clinical care – to large-scale implementation.

Digital Health and AI Technology: Driving Early Detection and Precision Prevention

Breakthroughs in Artificial Intelligence and multi-modal data analytic technologies are leading the healthcare model to shift from passive treatment to active prevention. Through AI-enabled ultrasound detection and digital health solutions, the accuracy of early screening for high-risk diseases such as congenital heart disease and stroke has significantly improved, effectively advancing healthcare and laying the technical foundation for a front-loaded, intelligent, active health management system.

Advanced Medical Imaging and Community Health Management: Transforming “Visible” into “Manageable”

The evolution of Molecular Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and theranostic imaging technologies is dedicated to transforming highly sophisticated imaging methods into widely accessible tools for community health protection. By establishing effective pathways from clinical guidelines to community implementation, advanced imaging technologies are breaking down hospital walls, achieving “seeing is believing” precision screening, and becoming the key visual support for the full-cycle management of public cerebro-cardiovascular health.

From Research to Clinic: Accelerating the Application of Innovative Technologies

Addressing the translational challenge of moving “from bench to bedside,” regenerative medicine, gene therapy, and AI imaging technologies are rapidly integrating into actual clinical workflows. By deepening cross-sector collaboration across industry, academia, research, and medicine, non-invasive technologies and innovative therapies are overcoming R&D barriers, effectively shortening the translation cycle, and promoting the widespread application and commercialisation of global frontier medical achievements in clinical settings.

The first day of ICMIS 2025 successfully concluded in a vibrant atmosphere of academic exchange. From macro-level strategic cooperation signings to micro-level imaging technology breakthroughs, from AI algorithms for precision screening to the clinical practice of regenerative medicine, the forum not only fully showcased the latest technological achievements in the cerebro-cardiovascular field but also built a high-level platform for dialogue and collaboration for global experts, transcending disciplinary and geographical boundaries. On the agenda for the second day, the summit further focused on the commercialisation and ecosystem-building of medical innovation, providing a platform for promising cerebro-cardiovascular research projects to present their findings and connect with international experts and investors.

Prudential partners with Cyberport to accelerate AI innovation

Collaboration to advance knowledge exchange, nurture talent and to strengthen Prudential’s AI Centre of Excellence

HONG KONG, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Prudential Hong Kong Limited (“Prudential”) today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited (“Cyberport”), forming a strategic partnership to expedite the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in Hong Kong, positioning the city as a leading regional hub for innovation.

Prudential signed a MoU with Cyberport to expedite the advancement of AI in Hong Kong. The guests at the signing ceremony included (from right to left): Lawrence Lam, Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Hong Kong; Clement Cheung, Chief Executive Officer of the Insurance Authority; Stephen Yiu, Chairman of the Insurance Authority; Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer Cyberport; and Sam Lim, Regional Chief Information Technology Officer Greater China, Prudential plc
Prudential signed a MoU with Cyberport to expedite the advancement of AI in Hong Kong. The guests at the signing ceremony included (from right to left): Lawrence Lam, Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Hong Kong; Clement Cheung, Chief Executive Officer of the Insurance Authority; Stephen Yiu, Chairman of the Insurance Authority; Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer Cyberport; and Sam Lim, Regional Chief Information Technology Officer Greater China, Prudential plc

Prudential and Cyberport will collaborate under the MoU to strengthen Prudential’s AI Centre of Excellence (AICOE) as part of the Insurance Authority’s AI Cohort Programme. The partnership will drive knowledge exchange across sectors, nurture specialised AI talent, and leverage Cyberport’s robust ecosystem and the advanced computing power of its AI Supercomputing Centre (AISC) to identify high-impact AI use cases. Together, these efforts aim to create an AI-driven environment that accelerates innovation and supports sustainable growth in the insurance industry.

The MoU signing ceremony, held at the “Insurtech Insight Asia 2025” event, was attended by Stephen Yiu, Chairman, and Clement Cheung, Chief Executive Officer of the Insurance Authority, together with Lawrence Lam, Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Hong Kong, and Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport. The MoU was formalised by Sam Lim, Regional Chief Information Technology Officer Greater China, Prudential plc, alongside Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport .

Lawrence Lam, Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Hong Kong, remarked: “We are honoured to join forces with Cyberport to enhance AI adoption and innovation in the insurance industry. At Prudential, our ambition is clear – to become an AI-first insurer with a human touch.  AI will help reshape how we work, from enhancing agency productivity and customer engagement to improving operational efficiency and smarter decision-making. Together with Cyberport, we will harness technology to create a better future for our clients and the wider community.”

Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport, said, “Cyberport is pleased to partner with Prudential, a long‑standing member of our Cyberport Enterprise Network, to advance digital innovation in insurance. Leveraging Hong Kong’s largest FinTech cluster of more than 400 companies at Cyberport, including leading Insurtech companies, we continue to connect insurers with innovators to drive practical AI applications in insurance management. With our AI Supercomputing Centre now fully operational, delivering 3,000 petaFLOPS of computing power, and the digital infrastructure of Cyberport 5 soon to come, we are supporting the industry in adopting AI technologies to unlock new opportunities and accelerate intelligent transformation. Together, we are further strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an international financial and FinTech centre.”

In accordance with the MoU, Prudential and Cyberport will collaborate on curated networking events and meetings to drive solution sourcing and proof-of-concept initiatives. They will also co-host AI challenges and innovation competitions to develop cutting-edge solutions. Additionally, the partnership will explore training collaborations to foster talent development and promote innovation and service excellence within the insurance sector.

Sam Lim, Regional Chief Information Technology Officer Greater China, Prudential plc, noted: “Prudential has significantly enhanced productivity and service excellence through innovative digital and AI solutions, fostering a strong digital‑and AI‑driven culture. This MoU with Cyberport marks a key milestone in scaling AI adoption across our organisation and the wider industry. Through this strategic partnership, we aim to strengthen Prudential’s Centre of Excellence, deepen cross‑sector knowledge exchange in AI, nurture specialised talent, and identify high‑impact AI use cases. Collectively, these efforts will help build a dynamic AI ecosystem that underpins the sustainable growth of the insurance industry.”

About Prudential Hong Kong Limited
Prudential has been serving the people of Hong Kong since 1964. Through Prudential Hong Kong Limited and Prudential General Insurance Hong Kong Limited, we provide a range of financial planning services and products including individual life insurance, investment-linked insurance, retirement solutions, health and medical protection, general insurance, and employee benefits to protect over 1.4 million customers in Hong Kong. In 2023, Prudential established its Macau branch to offer health insurance and financial solutions for the Macau community, completing its footprint in the Greater Bay Area. Please visit www.prudential.com.hk for more information.

About Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited
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 2,300 companies, including 13 listed companies and 10 unicorns. One-third of onsite companies’ founders come from 27 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 https://www.cyberport.hk/en.

SkyFi Selected for NATO DIANA 2026 Defense Innovation Accelerator

Earth Intelligence Platform Selected to Advance Dual-Use AI Technology for Alliance Security and Resilience

AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SkyFi, the leading Earth observation platform, today announced that it was selected to participate in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) 2026 Challenge Programme.

SkyFi was selected as one of 150 companies from 3,600 applications across 24 NATO countries through a rigorous evaluation process. SkyFi’s intuitive, user-friendly web platform and mobile app enables businesses, governments, and individuals to access geospatial imagery and analysis from more than 50 commercial partners providing optical, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), hyperspectral, and aerial imagery, as well as maritime Automatic Identification System (AIS) data and analytics. Users are able to access actionable insights that enable informed decisions without the need for specialized expertise.

SkyFi will refine and expand its geospatial decision-support platform through the DIANA program, integrating additional data sources, enhanced AI analytics, and operator-focused workflows to improve mobility planning in contested and austere environments. This effort will prepare the system for validation at NATO test centers and position it for broader coalition interoperability.

“We are honored and excited to be selected for the NATO DIANA 2026 Cohort,” said Kate van Dam, SkyFi’s Head of Government. “This is a pivotal moment for SkyFi, affirming our technology’s ability to bolster the security and resilience of NATO’s 32-member states while also demonstrating its commercial viability. We look forward to collaborating with NATO teams and gaining real operational insight to support NATO missions in all climes and places.”

DIANA engages companies working on solutions in key areas identified by the Alliance, connecting them with military end-users, mentors, and investors. The program is designed to accelerate the development, validation, and adoption of innovations to help NATO address operational challenges and maintain a technological advantage.

SkyFi will participate in one of ten challenge areas defined by the program – Data Assisted Decision Making – by further developing its AI-enhanced geospatial platform designed to analyze multi-modal data for decision support in contested or crisis environments.

DIANA’s mission is to find the most innovative companies, help them advance their solutions and grow their business, and get the technologies we need into the hands of NATO operators. Over the next year, these innovators will accelerate breakthrough technologies that can help to transform how the Alliance defends against current and emerging threats,” said James Appathurai, Managing Director of NATO DIANA.

Starting in January 2026, the selected companies will receive contractual funding and gain access to DIANA’s expanding network of 16 accelerator sites and more than 200 test centres across the 32 NATO nations.

SkyFi’s selection for NATO DIANA follows the company’s recent partnership announcements with leading commercial satellite imagery providers, Vantor, ICEYE US, and Planet.

More information about the NATO challenges can be found at DIANA | Challenges.

About SkyFi

SkyFi is a self-service Earth Intelligence Platform that allows users to run built-in geospatial analytics, task satellites, and access archived imagery. The dual-use platform supports both civilian and defense use cases, with flexible ordering options, transparent pricing, and API access for large-scale workflows.

Customers can use SkyFi’s web platform, mobile app, or developer APIs to manage Earth observation projects without needing contracts or in-house GIS teams.

Learn more at www.skyfi.com

About NATO DIANA

NATO DIANA finds and accelerates cutting-edge technologies to deliver battle- winning defence and security solutions for the Alliance, while fostering deep-tech innovation. As a cornerstone of NATO’s innovation and technology strategy, DIANA brings together world-class talent and the latest advancements to maintain the Alliance’s technological edge. Leveraging a network of leading accelerator sites, test centres, expert mentors, and Allied expertise across 32 nations, DIANA empowers innovators working at the intersection of defence readiness, commercial potential, and technological breakthroughs.

 

HLB and So Ban Hang Launch Initiative to Simplify Business Management for Vietnamese mSMEs

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hong Leong Bank Vietnam (“HLB” or the “Bank”), following its strategic partnership with So Ban Hang, has launched a new initiative to assist Vietnamese entrepreneurs and micro, small, and medium enterprises (“mSMEs”) with timely preparation for upcoming tax reforms including the abolition of the presumptive tax system and the mandatory transition to formal tax declaration and e-invoicing.

HLB, via the So Ban Hang app, enables businesses to open accounts, make tax-compliant QR payments, automate records, and issue e-invoices to streamline workflows and meet upcoming tax reforms
HLB, via the So Ban Hang app, enables businesses to open accounts, make tax-compliant QR payments, automate records, and issue e-invoices to streamline workflows and meet upcoming tax reforms

HLB recently announced that it would offer businesses essential features such as HLB account opening, tax-compliant QR payments, automatic record-keeping, and instant e-invoice issuances directly within the So Ban Hang app. This integrated solution is designed to streamline workflows, improve business efficiencies, and help entrepreneurs stay compliant with tax reforms taking effect early next year.

Fred Lim, HLB’s Chief Digital Commercialization Officer said, “Our Bank has a 120-year entrepreneurial history and we are acutely aware of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. The already difficult task of running a business becomes even more daunting when compliance requirements for managing tax and invoices are added to the mix. Our partnership with So Ban Hang is designed to simplify banking and compliance, freeing up entrepreneurs to fully focus on growing their business and generating income.”

The new initiative offers exclusive discounts and bundled offers valued at up to VND 3 million per customer. New HLB customers accessing the integrated solution will receive complimentary benefits, including a free So Ban Hang Pro account for the first three months, followed by a 35% discount on the subsequent one-year renewal. Furthermore, to support regulatory compliance, customers in their first year can leverage the e-Signature feature and issue up to 10,000 e-Invoices for a special one-time discounted price of just VND 250,000.

Bùi Hải Nam, CEO of So Ban Hang, added, “HLB’s vision to simplify business management for small enterprises aligns fully with our mission at SoBanHang – making it easier for millions of Vietnamese merchants to operate and grow. We are building an all-in-one platform that unifies sales, payments, accounting, tax, and modern banking into a single seamless experience. Through this partnership and the new incentive program, we believe more entrepreneurs will accelerate their growth with greater confidence and simplicity. “

For more information, please visit https://www.hlbank.com.vn/en/personal-banking/home.html 

Focus Graphite Achieves 99.9996 wt.% Ultra-High Purity and 2.03 ppm EBC in Follow-On Testing

5N+ Purity and On-Spec EBC Confirm Lac Knife’s Potential as a North American Source of Ultra-High-Performance Graphite Applications


Ottawa, Ontario – Newsfile Corp. – December 11, 2025 – Focus Graphite Inc. (TSXV: FMS) (OTCQB: FCSMF) (FSE: FKC0) (“Focus” or the “Company“) a Canadian developer of high-grade flake graphite deposits and innovator of next-generation battery technology, is pleased to announce that follow-on purification and elemental analysis of material from its Lac Knife deposit (concentrate Lot ID: GN25073005) achieved 99.9996 wt.% (“5N+“) and an Equivalent Boron Concentration (“EBC“) of 2.03 ppm, confirming the material is within nuclear-grade specification and meets the technical thresholds required for several high-value advanced materials markets.

The test work, conducted using electrothermal purification with no halogen gases (e.g. chlorine) or acids, produced this ultra-pure result in two (2) hours, further validating a chemical-free, environmentally advantageous pathway compared to conventional purification methods. These results directly support Focus’s ongoing engineering and scale-up programs funded under Natural Resources Canada’s (“NRCan“) Global Partnerships Initiative (“GPI“), under which the Company was awarded a non-repayable contribution of up to $14.1 million to accelerate North American capacity for clean, advanced material processing.

Subsequent elemental analysis calculated in accordance with ASTM C1233-15: Standard Practice for Determining Equivalent Boron Contents of Nuclear Materials yielded an Equivalent Boron Concentration (“EBC“) of 2.03 ppm (Table 1), which falls below the critical 3 ppm threshold often cited for nuclear-grade graphite applications. The calculated EBC value is the most critical test of purity for nuclear industry use.

These results suggest that Lac Knife graphite has the potential to serve markets requiring ultra-high-purity large and jumbo flake natural graphite. Achieving both 5N+ purity and a high proportion of large-flake concentrate is uncommon in the natural graphite industry and may provide Focus with opportunities in markets historically reliant on synthetic graphite or otherwise inaccessible to peers. These findings are consistent with peer-reviewed research published in ACS Omega (“Ultrahigh Temperature Purification of Graphite for the Development of a Continuous Process,” ACS Omega, 2025), conducted by American Energy Technologies Company (“AETC“) and NRCan, which demonstrated that ultrahigh-temperature purification of natural Canadian graphite can produce materials exhibiting purity and crystallinity suitable for advanced applications. Focus’s ongoing testwork indicates that residual impurities appear primarily on the surface of the graphite flake—as evidenced by ultra-fine features observed through scanning electron microscopy—suggesting that purification efficiency is strongly influenced by surface cleaning dynamics rather than structural defects within the carbon lattice.

Dean Hanisch, Chief Executive Officer of Focus commented, “These results validate Lac Knife as one of the rare unique natural graphite deposits capable of competing in high margin advanced technological markets and as a potential alternative to synthetic materials that are more expensive and have a larger environmental impact. With support from Canada’s Federal Government, through Natural Resources Canada’s Global Partnerships Initiative, we are now positioned to accelerate our scale-up work and unlock commercial pathways across nuclear energy, defense systems, graphene production, and next-generation electronics.”

Lac Knife graphite’s combination of ultra-high purity and large flake distribution positions it for a range of advanced industrial, clean energy, and high-technology applications.

Unlocking Advanced Markets Beyond Nuclear

Beyond nuclear applications, the ultra-high purity and medium-grain morphology of Lac Knife graphite position the material as a strategic feedstock for several advanced technology markets facing supply shortages, performance bottlenecks, and increasing scrutiny over material purity.

Graphene & Few-Layer Graphene (FLG) Production

In the graphene sector, precursor quality is the primary determinant of performance. Impurities commonly found in natural graphite—typically 0.5-1 microns in size, or roughly one thousand (1000) times thicker than a graphene layer—are known to disrupt electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties unless fully removed. Lac Knife’s 5N+ purity eliminates these defects at the source, allowing the flake to exfoliate cleanly into high-value graphene structures.

Peer-reviewed research published in Carbon (“Influence of graphite geography on the yield of mechanically exfoliated few-layer graphene,” Carbon, 2023) demonstrates the significance of geological origin in FLG production. In follow-on AETC—Yale University testing based on the methodologies outlined in that study, Lac Knife graphite achieved a record-high few-layer graphene yield of 22% ± 3%, outperforming all other natural samples evaluated and showing exfoliation behavior that synthetic graphite could not replicate.

Taken together, these results position Lac Knife as one of the few North American natural flake sources capable of supplying advanced graphene markets, including conductive coatings, EMI-shielding materials, flexible electronics, sensors, and next-generation energy storage systems.

Defence: IR Obscuration & Countermeasure Systems

The defence sector presents another major opportunity. Modern warfare increasingly requires materials capable of obscuring both visible and infrared signatures. Traditional obscurants—such as bronze flakes, titanium dioxide, and red phosphorus—pose toxicity, safety, and performance challenges. High-purity graphite and graphene derived from Lac Knife offer a lightweight, non-toxic, and thermally stable alternative capable of generating rapid-dispersion and longer-lasting obscurant clouds.

These materials are applicable to 40 mm muzzle-blast cartridges, airburst obscuration rounds for UAVs and rotorcraft, countermeasure dispenser systems, and naval surface-ship defence platforms. The U.S. Department of War currently procures graphene-based obscurants at approximately US$30,000 per ton, reflecting both strategic importance and limited supply. Lac Knife’s purity is essential here, as impurities directly interfere with graphene formation and degrade obscurant performance.

Stealth Coatings & Electromagnetic Protection Systems

Ultra-high purity graphite also plays a critical role in stealth coatings and electromagnetic protection systems. Engineered systems operating across the 400 MHz to 30 GHz spectrum require materials that deliver highly reproducible electrical conductivity, thermal stability, and particle uniformity.

These coatings and composites are used in radar-absorbing structures for stealth UAVs, thermal-vision targeting systems, and a range of low-observable technologies. Because deviations in graphite purity can compromise system reliability or operator safety, defence and shielding markets pay substantial premiums—often up to US$50,000 per ton—for 5N-grade material. Lac Knife’s combination of purity, consistency, and grain structure aligns closely with these stringent requirements and allows for further refinement into fine, superfine, ultrafine, or microfine grades without compromising integrity.

Critical Infrastructure Hardening (HEMP, IEMI and Geomagnetic Storms)

The same purity advantages extend into critical infrastructure protection. As governments and utilities work to harden electrical grids, substations, and 5G networks against high-altitude electromagnetic pulses (HEMP), intentional electromagnetic interference (IEMI), and severe geomagnetic storms, materials must perform reliably across high-frequency ranges and under extreme operating conditions.

Graphite-based shielding and coatings designed for these systems rely on predictable, reproducible material behavior—standards that only ultra-high purity graphite can meet. Lac Knife’s 5N+ output offers the reliability required for these mission-critical applications.

Additional High-Value Markets Enabled by 5N+ Purity

In addition to these strategic sectors, Lac Knife’s purity profile and particle characteristics also unlock potential in several high-value industries, including thermal management components for semiconductors and LEDs, high-pressure synthetic diamond production, PEM and SOFC fuel-cell bipolar plates, and laboratory-grade graphite consumables where contamination must be tightly controlled. In each of these markets, ultra-high purity reduces defects, increases stability, and improves overall system performance, enabling natural graphite to compete directly with synthetic alternatives.

Next Steps in Technical Validation

Focus is advancing a comprehensive technical qualification program to further define Lac Knife’s suitability for nuclear and advanced material markets. Ongoing nuclear graphite testing includes detailed characterization of particle size distribution, compressibility, electrical resistivity, and coefficient of friction—parameters that determine whether a graphite material can perform reliably under the thermal, mechanical, and irradiation stresses present in high-temperature reactor environments. The Company expects to fabricate and evaluate near-net-shape graphite bricks, an essential step toward assessing Lac Knife material in full-scale core component geometries and within ASME Division 5 design criteria.

In parallel, Focus is extending its validation program—supported through NRCan’s Global Partnerships Initiative (“GPI”)—advanced materials markets. Current work programs under consideration include assessing Lac Knife graphite as a precursor for high-yield graphene, nano-wafer substrates, thin-film semiconductors, next-generation electronic components, and aerospace composites, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS). These sectors demand highly reproducible, ultra-high-purity carbon materials traditionally sourced from synthetic graphite. Early results indicate that Lac Knife’s 5N+ natural graphite may offer a technically competitive—and potentially more sustainable—North American alternative to synthetic feedstocks across multiple high-value applications.

Element Impurity Limit
(mg/kg)
EBC Factor EBC Calculation
Ag 0.05 0.0083 0.000415
Al 1 0.0001 0.0001
B 0.12 1 0.12
Ca 0.36 0.0002 0.000072
Cd 5 0.3172 1.586
Cl 1.5 0.0134 0.0201
Co 0.05 0.0089 0.00445
Cr 0.12 0.0008 0.000096
Cu 0.25 0.0008 0.0002
Dy 0.05 0.0818 0.00409
Eu 0.1 0.425 0.0425
Fe 0.21 0.0006 0.000126
Gd 0.05 4.3991 0.219955
K 0.6 0.0008 0.00048
Li 0.03 0.1439 0.004317
Mn 0.12 0.0034 0.000408
Mo 0.15 0.0004 0.00006
Na 0.085 0.0003 0.0000255
Ni 0.18 0.0011 0.00198
S 1.4 0.0002 0.00028
Si 1.46 0.0001 0.000146
Sm 0.05 0.5336 0.02668
Th 0.01 0.0005 0.000005
Ti 0.53 0.0018 0.000954
U 0.05 0.0005 0.000025
V 0.08 0.0014 0.000112
Total 2.0277895

Table 1: EBC Calculation, Thermally Purified Lac Knife Lot ID: GN250730005

Figure 1: Particle Size Distribution, Thermally Purified Lac Knife Lot ID: GN250730005

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1963/277711_279dc9a07490cbe0_001full.jpg

Tap Density Scott Volume Surface Area LOI
g/cc g/cc m2 /g Wt. % C
0.6 0.4 1.4 99.9996

Table 2: Data, Thermally Purified Lac Knife Lot ID: GN250730005

% Tile Size (um)
D10 105.2
D50 337.3
D90 673.8
MV 368.5

Table 3: Data (2), Thermally Purified Lac Knife Lot ID: GN250730005

Qualified Person

Dr. Joseph Doninger, Director of Technology and Manufacturing for Focus Graphite, is the Qualified Person (“QP”) as defined under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Dr. Doninger has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release. Dr. Doninger is a chemical engineer and the developer or co-developer of multiple U.S., European, and Canadian patents relating to carbon processing technologies and purification equipment. He has authored or co-authored more than two dozen technical papers and studies on graphite composite anodes, carbon-based materials for electrochemical energy storage systems, and advanced graphite for lithium-ion batteries.

About Focus Graphite Advanced Materials Inc.
Focus Graphite Advanced Materials is redefining the future of critical minerals with two 100% owned world-class graphite projects and cutting-edge battery technology. Our flagship Lac Knife project stands as one of the most advanced high-purity graphite deposits in North America, with a fully completed feasibility study. Lac Knife is set to become a key supplier for the battery, defense, and advanced materials industries.

Our Lac Tetepisca project further strengthens our portfolio, with the potential to be one of the largest and highest-purity and grade graphite deposits in North America. At Focus, we go beyond mining – we are pioneering environmentally sustainable processing solutions and innovative battery technologies, including our patent-pending silicon-enhanced spheroidized graphite, designed to enhance battery performance and efficiency.

Our commitment to innovation ensures a chemical-free, eco-friendly supply chain from mine to market. Collaboration is at the core of our vision. We actively partner with industry leaders, research institutions, and government agencies to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation graphite materials. As a North American company, we are dedicated to securing a resilient, locally sourced supply of critical minerals – reducing dependence on foreign-controlled markets and driving the transition to a sustainable future.

For more information on Focus Graphite Inc. please visit http://www.focusgraphite.com.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/focus-graphite/
X: https://x.com/focusgraphite

Investors Contact:
Dean Hanisch
CEO, Focus Graphite Inc.
dhanisch@focusgraphite.com
+1 (613) 612-6060

Jason Latkowcer
VP Corporate Development
jlatkowcer@focusgraphite.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words “could,” “intend,” “expect,” “believe,” “will,” “projected,” “estimated,” and similar expressions, as well as statements relating to matters that are not historical facts, are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company’s current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events.

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the anticipated performance and downstream applicability of ultra-high-purity graphite derived from the Lac Knife project; the potential for 5N+ purification results and nuclear-grade Equivalent Boron Concentration (“EBC”) values to be replicated at larger scale; the implications of testwork conducted under Natural Resources Canada’s Global Partnerships Initiative (“GPI”) and the expected outcomes of related engineering, scale-up, and validation programs; the ability of Lac Knife graphite to meet nuclear, graphene, defense, electromagnetic shielding, thermal management, semiconductor, and other advanced material specifications; the potential commercial pathways associated with supplying high-purity natural graphite as an alternative to synthetic graphite; and the Company’s strategy to position itself within North American supply chains for clean energy, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and critical infrastructure markets.

Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks related to market conditions, regulatory approvals, changes in economic conditions, the ability to raise sufficient funds on acceptable terms or at all, operational risks associated with mineral exploration and development, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s public disclosure documents available under its profile on SEDAR+.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties, and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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

About Focus Graphite Inc.

Audi Group and UST form Strategic partnership: UST Acquires Majority Stake in Italdesign

  • Audi CTO Geoffrey Bouquot: “UST ideal partner to strengthen Italdesign’s solid foundation while opening new market opportunities”
  • Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. to retain a stake in Italdesign Giugiaro S.p.A.
  • UST and Italdesign will work together to combine their complementary expertise for long-term, sustainable growth

BERLIN, INGOLSTADT, Germany, and MONCALIERI, Italy, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Audi Group is entering into a strategic partnership with UST, a global transformation company specializing in AI-powered technology, design, and engineering. UST, headquartered in Aliso Viejo, California (USA), has signed an agreement to acquire a majority stake in Italdesign. Italdesign’s current parent company Lamborghini is part of the Audi Group and will retain a significant stake. As a result, Audi will remain a strategic partner of Italdesign in the long term, as well as an important client of the company.

The majority takeover of Italdesign by UST creates a strong partnership that combines UST’s expertise in automotive engineering, artificial intelligence, software-defined vehicle development, and digital ecosystem design with Italdesign’s deep knowledge in vehicle and product design, engineering, prototyping, small series production, and automotive electronics. Together, the companies will be able to offer a comprehensive and integrated range of services – from early concept and design to hardware and software development through to production systems. This combined capability is designed to support the development of fully modern, digitally enabled vehicles.

In addition, UST and Italdesign intend to extend this integrated approach to a global scale. UST will enable Italdesign to expand their international presence across UST’s global footprint in over 30 countries. As the new majority owner, UST will assume operational responsibility while honoring and building on Italdesign’s Italian heritage, design culture, and the talent of its employees.

Audi remains an important long-term partner of Italdesign, ensuring continuity and ongoing collaboration in the areas that have shaped Italdesign’s reputation for more than five decades. Italdesign has been part of the Volkswagen Group since 2010. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals. UST and Audi Group have not disclosed the investment value or other contract details.

Geoffrey Bouquot, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at AUDI AG: “For many years Italdesign has been a valued partner in our development network, contributing expertise from design to prototype and series development. We are confident our collaboration will continue to drive success and deliver strong results under the new ownership structure. UST is the ideal partner to strengthen Italdesign’s solid foundation while opening new market opportunities. Together, we aim to ensure that Italdesign remains an innovator in automotive design and engineering.”

Krishna Sudheendra, Chief Executive Officer, UST: “Italdesign has shaped the way the world experiences mobility, and its legacy of design excellence is respected globally. We are grateful for the trust placed in us as we begin this next chapter together. Our role is to support Italdesign’s vision, honor its heritage, and bring new capabilities that help the team continue to grow. We look forward to working side by side with Italdesign and our partners across the Audi Group to help build what comes next.”

Antonio Casu, Chief Executive Officer at Italdesign Giugiaro S.p.A.: “This partnership will bring benefits to all parties involved. It will allow Italdesign to accelerate the expansion of its service portfolio in new markets and achieve deeper penetration in various international markets. Italdesign is aiming to become the first full integrator of hardware and software worldwide, both in the automotive sector and across other high–technology industrial sectors.”

Gilroy Mathew, Chief Operating Officer, UST: “This acquisition reflects our bold vision to transform the mobility sector by combining Italdesign’s renowned heritage in vehicle design and manufacturing with UST’s expertise in vehicle electronics, embedded systems, and AI. This fusion of iconic design excellence and advanced digital engineering positions us at the forefront of automotive innovation – panning next-generation product design, simulations, vehicle electronics, connectivity, ADAS and hyper-personalization. We’re positioned to drive the future of automotive innovation. Together, we’ll collaborate with global OEMs to accelerate their evolution in the Software-Defined Vehicle era.”

About Audi Group

The Audi Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the premium and luxury segment. The brands Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, and Ducati produce at 22 locations in 13 countries. Audi and its partners are present in more than 100 markets worldwide. As of December 31, 2024, more than 88,000 people worked for the Audi Group, more than 55,000 of them at AUDI AG in Germany. With its attractive brands and numerous new models, the group is systematically pursuing its path toward becoming a provider of sustainable, fully networked premium mobility. For more information, visit www.audi.com/en.

About ITALDESIGN

Italdesign is a global player in design, engineering, and production, renowned for its customer-centric and method-driven approach to innovation in the automotive sector. It acts as a true system integrator and is one of the few one-stop shops in the automotive world. Headquartered in Moncalieri, Turin, Italy, in the heart of Vehicle Valley Piemonte, and with over 1,300 professionals across 10 international sites, Italdesign has been shaping the future of mobility, product, and transportation design for more than 57 years. The company offers end-to-end, vertical, and integrated solutions spanning from concept to series production. Focused in automotive, Italdesign’s multidisciplinary teams deliver projects for established brands and emerging players, supporting the industrialization of new products with state-of-the-art methods and tools.

Alongside its automotive legacy, with over 100 show cars and research prototypes and more than 300 production models realized over the years, the company’s industrial design division has developed over 1,000 industrial and transportation design products, ranging from consumer goods to professional equipment and public transport solutions. For more information, visit www.italdesign.it.

Media contact: 
Franco Bay
+393337897749
franco.bay@italdesign.it
pr@italdesign.it

About UST

Since 1999, UST has worked side by side with the world’s best companies and leading OEMs in the automotive industry to make a powerful impact through transformation. Powered by technology, driven by AI, inspired by people, and led by our purpose, we partner with our clients from design to operation. Our AI-driven digital solutions, proprietary platforms, engineering, R&D, products, and innovation ecosystem turn core challenges into impactful, disruptive solutions. With deep industry knowledge and a future-ready mindset, we infuse expertise, innovation, and agility into our clients’ organizations—delivering measurable value and positive lasting change for them, their customers, and communities around the world. Together, with 30,000+ employees in 30+ countries, we build for boundless impact—touching billions of lives in the process. Visit us at www.UST.com.

Media Contacts, UST:

Tinu Cherian Abraham
+1 (949) 415-9857

Merrick Laravea
+1 (949) 416-6212

Neha Misri
+44-7341787926

Roshni Das K
+91 7736795557
media.relations@ust.com

Media Contacts, U.S.
S&C PR
+1-646.941.9139
media@scprgroup.com

Makovsky
ust@makovsky.com

Media Contacts, India:
ust@adfactorspr.com 

Media Contacts, U.K.:
FTI Consulting
UST@fticonsulting.com

Media Contacts, Spain:
Noizze Media
Carmen Tapia / Ricardo Schell
ctapia@noizzemedia.com / ricardo.schell@noizzemedia.com

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Quanzhou: Starting Point of the Maritime Silk Road and UNESCO World Heritage Site Extends a Cultural Tourism Invitation to the World


QUANZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 December 2025 – As the starting point of the ancient Maritime Silk Road and a millennia-old city boasting the honors of “UNESCO World Heritage Site” and “UNESCO City of Gastronomy,” Quanzhou will host the 2025 Maritime Silk Road International Cultural Tourism Festival under the theme “Silk Road Symphony · Global Bonding Harmony” on December 11, welcoming guests from around the globe with open arms.

Quanzhou: Starting Point of the Maritime Silk Road and UNESCO World Heritage Site Extends a Cultural Tourism Invitation to the World

In July 2021, “Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China” was inscribed on the World Heritage List, with 22 heritage sites bearing witness to the bustling scene of “merchants from all over the world gathering in the port city” a thousand years ago. In October 2025, Quanzhou was further honored as a “UNESCO City of Gastronomy.” The blend of the past and the present has infused profound cultural heritage into this year’s Maritime Silk Road International Cultural Tourism Festival.

A City of Blended Mountain, Sea, and Urban Landscapes

Quanzhou enjoys a unique geographical setting that blends mountains, sea, and urban landscapes, allowing visitors to enjoy a diverse range of views in a single trip. In the old town area, the West Street preserves its millennium-old street pattern. Zhongshan Road is home to typical southern Fujian architecture, lined with many time-honored brands. Laojun Rock on Mount Qingyuan is a masterwork of stone carving from the Song Dynasty. The scenic Chongwu coastline is adjacent to a well-preserved Ming Dynasty ancient town. Luoyang Bridge, with its boat-shaped piers, demonstrates ancient architectural wisdom and remains in use today.

A Melting Pot of Diverse Cultures

Quanzhou’s culture stems from the collision between maritime and agricultural civilizations. Known as “a museum of the world’s religions,” it harmoniously houses Qingjing Mosque (Islam), Kaiyuan Temple (Buddhism), and Guanyue Temple (Taoism), showcasing its diversity and inclusiveness. The Wind-Praying Inscriptions on Jiuri Hill are important relics along the Maritime Silk Road. The “Five Nans” (Nanyin music, Nanxi opera, Nanquan martial arts, Minnan architecture, and Minnan crafts) carry forward the cultural heritage of Southern Fujian.

This cultural diversity is also reflected in its cuisine: street-side rice dumplings stuffed with meat, and fine rice noodle soup, as well as dishes like ginger duck and oyster omelet served at banquets, blend flavors from both mountains and seas; beef soup is infused with Arabic culinary influence, while Yuanxiao (glutinous rice balls) retain traditions from the Central Plains. Each dish is a testament to cultural exchange.

World Heritage Site and Fashion Capital

Building on its textile, footwear, and apparel industries with annual output valued at hundreds of billions of yuan and its status as a hub for “China-chic brands,” Quanzhou actively promotes the integration of world heritage with fashion. It is not only the birthplace of leading China-chic brands such as Anta, Septwolves, and Lilanz but also transforms world heritage sites into fashion stages through events like “Quanzhou Fashion Week”: century-old arcade buildings become runways, ancient docks serve as a stage for avant-garde menswear, and West Street and the Confucius Temple host flash mobs featuring floral headdress; historical districts like Zhongshan Road and Wudianshi have been revitalized as hot spots for China-chic brands, turning the entire city into an “immersive venue for fashion shows.”

Silk Road Grand Event Welcomes Guests to Zayton City

From December 9 to 15, the festival will launch ten activities under three sections: “Intangible Cultural Heritage Revitalization” includes the opening ceremony, intangible cultural heritage fashion shows, the Fujian Minnan Culture Intangible Cultural Heritage Week, and performances of intangible cultural heritage along the Maritime Silk Road; “Global Harmony ” consists of an international Nanyin music gala and an international puppet show; and “China-Chic Consumption” features the first Quanzhou Cup World Heritage Cultural and Creative Design Competition.

This year’s event emphasizes international exchange and the participation of overseas Chinese. It brings together dozens of representatives from foreign diplomatic missions in China, nearly a hundred international travel agents, and performance troupes and intangible cultural heritage practitioners from over forty countries and regions. Additionally, more than fifty prominent overseas Chinese leaders and outstanding young overseas Chinese are invited to participate.

With Zayton trees in bloom, guests arrive in this ancient city with a long history, which is now joining hands with friends from around the world to create a cultural extravaganza that connects the past and the present, and blends tradition with fashion.

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