GUIYANG, China, Aug. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report by Huanqiu.com:

Hosted by the National Data Administration and organized by Guizhou Provincial People’s Government, the China International Big Data Industry Expo 2025 (the Big Data Expo 2025) opened grandly in Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, on August 28, 2025.

The expo this year is the 11^th session. As the first data-themed large-scale international expo, since its inauguration in 2015, the expo has turned out to be an international grand gathering of industry elites.

Themed “Data Drives Industrial Momentum, Intelligence Unlocks the Future”, the Big Data Expo 2025 will showcase the latest achievements of the integrated innovation of data elements and AI technologies, thereby advancing the efficient aggregation, development and utilization of data resources, and vigorously promoting the international cooperation and high-quality development of the digital economy.

During the expo (August 28 to 30), six thematic exhibition pavilions including Digital Intelligence Navigation, Digital Intelligence Infrastructure, Digital Intelligence Service, Digital Intelligence Application, Digital Intelligence Innovation and Digital Intelligence Experience will present a batch of new technologies, products, solutions and applications of digital economy, with 36 serial activities in parallel focusing on the exchange of cutting-edge technologies, launch of new products, discussion on local legislative practices, and business negotiations. The expo also partners with well-known enterprises and professional competition organizers at home and abroad to set up trend-related topics, and organize a number of corporate and industrial competitions.

Noticeably, the Big Data Expo 2025 further highlights the features of internationalization, professionalism and industrialization, and strives to cultivate a platform for domestic and international supply-demand matchmaking on innovative solutions of digital economy, a platform for the most professional and authoritative exchanges in the data field, and a preferred platform for the value transformation of technological innovation outcomes of various business entities, so as to address the challenges in the market-oriented development and value mining of data elements, and jointly boost the innovative growth of digital economy globally.

TOKYO, Aug. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kayou, a leading player in China’s pan-entertainment and collectibles industry, is accelerating its global expansion with a two-pronged exhibition strategy. Following its debut at the 2025 Indonesia International Baby Products & Toys Expo (IBTE Indonesia) on August 20, Kaiyou unveiled its flagship lineup at the 59th Tokyo Toy Show on August 28, reflecting its structured approach to building a global presence and scaling internationally.

Tapping into Mature Markets: Showcasing Product Strength on the Global Stage

Held at Tokyo Big Sight, the Tokyo Toy Show brought together nearly 1,000 exhibitors and over 90,000 visitors. As Asia’s longest-running professional toy fair, the show has been held 58 times and plays a defining role in shaping the global toy and collectibles industry.

The Tokyo Toy Show is a premier platform for innovation across toys and entertainment. This year, global leaders Disney, Mattel, and Bandai were in attendance. Representing Chinese brands, Kayou showcased its latest portfolio while connecting with international peers, gaining insights into evolving fan preferences and trends.

At the Tokyo show, Kayou displayed a broad range of IP-driven collectibles, including trading cards, figurines, acrylic stands, and badges. Its strong design execution and integrated supply chain made its booth a destination for global buyers and collectors alike.

In Japan’s toy and collectibles market, trading card games (TCG) are the fastest-growing category, reaching 302.463 billion yen (approx. 2.05 billion USD) in 2024, according to the Japan Toy Association. With powerhouse brands such as Pokémon, Bandai, Takara Tomy, Konami, and Bushiroad leading the space, Kayou’s Tokyo debut represents a key opportunity to compete in one of the industry’s most competitive segments.

Following its 2024 partnership with Hasbro, Kayou introduced the first Japanese-language edition of its My Little Pony trading card game and hosted live demo play at its booth. The game’s unique mechanics, distinctive artwork, and premium production quality drew strong reactions from attendees, reinforcing Kayou’s R&D strength and global vision.     

Through its appearances in both Indonesia and Japan, Kayou highlighted a differentiated global market strategy: piloting a localized, accessible model in developing markets while reinforcing its competitive edge and premium brand position in established ones. Participation in both events underscores a two-track strategy—driving growth in emerging regions while shaping product innovation in mature markets—marking an important step forward in the company’s worldwide expansion.

Six decades of innovation, supporting over 1,100 employees across five Singapore entities and serving more than 14 Asia Pacific markets

SINGAPORE, Aug. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As Singapore commemorates its 60^th year of independence, the Fujifilm Group of companies in Singapore proudly marks six decades of partnership, progress, and innovation with the nation. To mark this milestone, Fujifilm employees participated in the heartfelt “Thanks Smile Shot” initiative, which reflects the Fujifilm Group Purpose of “Giving our world more smiles“. Through this initiative, employees shared moments of joy and connection, celebrating Fujifilm’s journey alongside Singapore’s own story of growth.

Singapore as a Strategic Hub for Innovation and Growth

Over the years, Fujifilm has continuously evolved its businesses, transitioning from its early days in photographic devices and film to diversifying into healthcare, semiconductor materials and digital transformation. This development has advanced alongside Singapore’s growth, positioning Fujifilm as a leader across various key industries. 

Today, Singapore serves as a critical hub for Fujifilm, hosting five group companies and functioning as the regional headquarters for core business segments^[1] – healthcare, electronics, business innovation and imaging. With over 1,100 employees locally, Fujifilm supports customers across more than 14 Asia Pacific markets, cementing Singapore’s role as a key driver of its regional presence.

Haruto Iwata, Managing Director of FUJIFILM Asia Pacific, said, “Singapore has been at the heart of Fujifilm’s growth in Asia Pacific for the past six decades and its role will be just as vital in the decades to come. Its strategic location, skilled talent pool, and stable economy continue to empower us to be a market leader in healthcare, electronics, business innovation and imaging. Singapore plays an important role in our business expansion and remains a key launchpad for future-ready solutions that shape industries and improve lives across the region.”

In line with this vision, the group established FUJIFILM Electronic Materials (Singapore) this year, further strengthening Singapore’s role as a key supply chain hub for semiconductor manufacturers across the region. FUJIFILM Electronic Materials (Singapore) also serves as  the company’s first and only semiconductor materials manufacturing site in Southeast Asia. In 2022, FUJIFILM Healthcare Asia Pacific was also established to serve the healthcare needs in this region, providing advanced medical imaging and diagnostic solutions to healthcare providers. This expansion reinforces Fujifilm’s commitment to supporting Singapore’s healthcare ecosystem, enhancing patient care and contributing to the ongoing development of medical solutions across the region.

Mr Lim Wey-Len, Executive Vice President, Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) said: “Fujifilm has been a longstanding partner to Singapore for over 60 years, reflecting strong confidence in Singapore as its regional hub to access Asia Pacific markets. The group continues to use Singapore as a base in its digitisation push and move into new areas of growth. Its investments here foster collaborative R&D and create high-quality jobs for Singaporeans across imaging, information solutions, semiconductors, and healthcare sectors. We look forward to strengthening this partnership as Fujifilm builds on Singapore’s innovation ecosystem to seize new opportunities and stay competitive.” 

Powering Smart, Sustainable Growth from Singapore

FUJIFILM Business Innovation Asia Pacific is at the forefront of empowering businesses to thrive in the digital era, combining intelligent automation with circular innovation to drive sustainable transformation across Asia Pacific. From its strategic hub in Singapore, the group reimagines workflows and infrastructure so that organizations can unlock greater agility, efficiency, and competitive advantage. 

Strengthening Singapore’s Smart Nation ambitions, the company leads regional digital transformation initiatives from Singapore to deliver tools across diverse industries – such as cloud-native workflow automation, smart office platform and AI-driven analytics, helping customers improve operations, elevate employee experience, and accelerate data-driven decision-making while reducing environmental impact.

Masatsugu Naito, President of FUJIFILM Business Innovation Asia Pacific, stated, “Our rebranding to FUJIFILM Business Innovation was a declaration of intent. Asia Pacific’s digital acceleration demands more than incremental change – it requires rethinking how technology, sustainability, and human collaboration converge. While the printing sector faces challenges, we see growing opportunities in digital transformation (DX), AI, and integrated solutions. We must be ready to adapt and embrace new business models to drive more efficient process automation in Singapore. I have already seen tangible use cases and look forward to opportunities that will be developed through collaboration with customers, partners, and the broader innovation ecosystem here.”

Fujifilm is poised to drive Singapore’s progress in key strategic areas, leveraging its advanced manufacturing capabilities, transformative healthcare technologies, and innovative digital solutions to support the nation’s vision for sustainable economic growth and industry leadership.

Celebrating SG60 Through Smiles

To honour Singapore’s 60th year of independence, Fujifilm hosted a special commemorative event with its employees and esteemed guests, including representatives from the Singapore Economic Development Board. As part of the celebration, a collaborative Instax photo installation was unveiled, representing the people and places that inspire Fujifilm’s ongoing commitment to innovation, nation-building, and smiles.

Wee Tee Hsien, CEO of FUJIFILM Business Innovation Singapore, said, “Celebrating our 60 years journey alongside Singapore is incredibly meaningful. We have grown with Singapore through every phase of economic transformation, from industrialization to today’s digital economy. Looking ahead, we remain committed to empowering Singapore businesses with innovative solutions that help them reimagine how they work, boost productivity and thrive in the digital age.”

In the lead-up to the event, Fujifilm employees across its five entities contributed over 720 Instax photos, capturing meaningful moments of joy, teamwork, and connection. These photos were thoughtfully curated into three striking panels featuring iconic symbols of Singapore, namely Changi Airport Control Tower, Vanda Miss Joaquim, also known as the Singapore orchid, and the Lion Head Symbol. (See Annex A for photos and captions.)

This employee-driven initiative embodies Fujifilm’s corporate purpose and celebrates Singapore’s journey from independence to a global city-state. As the nation enters its next chapter of growth, Fujifilm remains committed to empowering the next generation through cutting-edge technology, strong partnerships, and a shared mission: Giving our world more smiles.

— End —

About Fujifilm Group in Singapore

The Fujifilm Group in Singapore comprises five entities, namely FUJIFILM Asia Pacific, FUJIFILM Business Innovation Asia Pacific, FUJIFILM Business Innovation Singapore, FUJIFILM Healthcare Asia Pacific, and FUJIFILM Electronic Materials (Singapore). Together, they employ over 1,100 people and serve customers across more than 14 Asia Pacific markets.

Annex A

Representatives from Fujifilm with Singapore Economic Development Board at Fujifilm’s special commemorative SG60 event

HONG KONG, Aug. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As technology advances, researchers are increasingly turning to the natural world for inspiration. In the sixth season premiere of ‘Tech for Good’, CNN anchor and correspondent Kristie Lu Stout meets the young innovators using the movement and behaviour of animals to inspire the future of robot design.

CNN first visits students at DGIST, one of Korea’s leading robotic universities, who are creating robots that mimic animal locomotion. Their bio-inspired robots derive inspiration from animals inhabiting land, sea, and air – including a robotic snake for search and rescue operations, a soft robotic fish to monitor underwater ecosystems, and a remote-controlled bird that could one day carry out aerial surveys. And, after coming up short against the world’s fastest quadruped robot last year, Kristie tries her luck again by challenging a robotic tortoise to another foot race!

CNN then visits the UK, where students at the University of Oxford are building tech to study the ‘natural algorithms’ that govern how hawks move and make decisions while flying at high speeds. CNN spoke with PhD candidate Henry Cerbone from the Oxford Flight Group – a world-leading research team dedicated to the study of winged creatures – to find out how studying birds of prey could one day make robots more efficient. CNN also met with PhD candidate, Davina Thandi, who is exploring how the shape of birds’ wings change during flight, aiming to apply these insights to the development of advanced aerial robotics.

Finally, as the world faces growing environmental challenges, students at MIT are developing robotic insects that could one day assist with tasks such as artificial pollination, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring. CNN met with PhD student, Yi-Hsuan “Nemo” Hsiao, who wrote the computer algorithm that controls how each robot flaps its wings, enabling them to hover, fly swiftly, or hop along the ground, allowing them to mimic insect behaviour.

This season also introduces an all-new segment, ‘Where Are They Now?’, which revisits groundbreaking inventions and technologies featured in previous seasons. CNN takes a fresh look at the ‘miller-spinner’ technology by Stanford University assistant professor Renee Zhao, originally highlighted in ‘Tech for Good’ in 2022. Researchers believe this micro robotic spinning device has the potential to significantly improve the treatment of strokes, heart attacks, pulmonary embolisms, and other clot-related conditions.

Tech for Good trailers: http://bit.ly/4g20EZF
Tech for Good images: http://bit.ly/45XbeML
Tech for Good microsite: https://cnn.it/3PB5DSq 

Airtimes for 30-minute special:
Saturday, 30th August at 12:30pm and 6:30pm HKT
Sunday, 31st August at 3:00am and 3:30pm HKT
Monday, 1st September at 11:00am HKT

About CNN International  
CNN’s portfolio of news and information services is available in seven different languages across all major TV, digital and mobile platforms, reaching more than 379 million households around the globe. CNN International is the number one international TV news channel according to all major media surveys across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia Pacific region, and Latin America and has a US presence that includes CNNgo. CNN Digital is a leading network for online news, mobile news and social media. CNN is at the forefront of digital innovation and continues to invest heavily in expanding its digital global footprint, with a suite of award-winning digital properties and a range of strategic content partnerships, commercialised through a strong data-driven understanding of audience behaviours. CNN has won multiple prestigious awards around the world for its journalism. Around 1,000 hours of long-form series, documentaries and specials are produced every year by CNNI’s non-news programming division. CNN has 36 editorial offices and more than 1,100 affiliates worldwide through CNN Newsource. CNN International is a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

SINGAPORE, Aug. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With World Beach Day coming up on 1 September 2025, digital travel platform Agoda invites travelers to dive into some of Asia’s most stunning yet lesser-known beach destinations. From soaking up the sun, splashing into adventure, or simply enjoying the calming rhythm of the waves, these hidden paradises offer something for everyone—from solo wanderers to couples and families.

Beaches remain among the most sought-after travel destinations, offering an irresistible combination of tranquility and excitement. Whether it’s unwinding on soft sands, exploring vibrant marine ecosystems, enjoying thrilling water sports or sampling fresh coastal cuisine, these sandy havens cater to a wide range of interests that promise unforgettable experiences.

Agoda has curated a list of six hidden beach gems across Asia that are sure to make waves on any traveler’s bucket list:

1. Con Dao Islands, Vietnam

Tucked away off Vietnam’s southern coast, the Con Dao Islands are a treasure trove of pristine beaches, lush forests, and rich history. Known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, these islands are a diver’s dream. Visitors can also explore the islands’ national park, home to rare wildlife, or learn about their fascinating past at the Con Dao Museum.

2. Ko Lipe, Thailand

Dubbed the “Maldives of Thailand,” Ko Lipe is a small island with big charm. Its powdery white sands and turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging with a coconut in hand. Don’t miss the vibrant Walking Street, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for handmade souvenirs.

3. Amami Oshima, Japan

For those seeking a unique blend of beach and culture, Amami Oshima is a must-visit. This Japanese island boasts secluded beaches framed by lush mangroves and dramatic cliffs. Visitors can try their hand at traditional crafts, explore the island’s rich music heritage, or indulge in local specialties like keihan (chicken rice).

4. Langkawi, Malaysia

Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands, is a paradise for nature lovers. Beyond its stunning beaches, visitors can explore lush rainforests, take a cable car ride for panoramic views, or visit the iconic Sky Bridge. Langkawi’s duty-free status also makes it a shopper’s delight.

5. Siquijor Island, Philippines

Known as the “Island of Fire,” Siquijor is shrouded in mystique and natural beauty. Its beaches are perfect for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. Travelers can also explore waterfalls, caves, and learn about the island’s folklore and healing traditions.

6. Gokarna, India

A quieter alternative to Goa, Gokarna is a haven for those seeking a serene escape. Its unspoiled beaches, like Om Beach and Kudle Beach, are ideal for yoga, meditation, or simply unwinding. The town also offers a glimpse into India’s spiritual side, with ancient temples and vibrant local festivals.

Krishna Rathi, Associate Vice President at Agoda shared, “Beaches are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Whether you’re looking to relax on sandy shores or take a refreshing dip in turquoise waters, Asia is home to so many lesser-known beaches offering the perfect mix of sun, sand and sea. Agoda’s recommendations this World Beach Day are all about helping travelers find their perfect slice of paradise. “

Agoda’s extensive offerings make it easy to plan a dream beach holiday, over 6 million properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and start planning the next beach escape. Visit Agoda.com for more information.

BEIJING, Aug. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A report from China Daily:

20-Year Economic and Social Development Strategic Vision sparks enormous increase in GDP and proliferation in tech businesses, and as a pioneer of the Digital China strategy, Fuzhou achieves 790 billion yuan in digital economy in 2024

After in-depth investigation, extensive consultations and multiple revisions, Fuzhou, capital of East China’s Fujian province, rolled out the 20-Year Economic and Social Development Strategic Vision in 1992.

Also known as the “3820 strategic project”, it outlined the goals, steps and priorities for the city’s economic and social development over three, eight and 20 years.

During the Fuzhou congress of the Communist Party of China in August 1995, the goal of “building a modern international city” was officially proposed, which established the general framework and strategy for the medium- and long term development of the city.

Following this blueprint, Fuzhou has made efforts over three decades and achieved leapfrog growth. Its GDP surged to 1.42 trillion yuan ($197.5 billion) in 2024, from 46.4 billion yuan in 1995, ranking it eighth among China’s provincial capitals.

As the pioneer of the “Digital China” strategy, Fuzhou has made great strides in high-tech industries.

In 1999 when Fuzhou Software Park was established at the foothills of Wufeng Mountain, there was only one building and some 100 enterprises. Today it consists of seven zones and 173 buildings, attracting three industries of the digital economy — software and information technology service, photoelectric chips and next-generation IT.

Rockchip Electronics, founded in the park in 2001, has become one of China’s leading integrated circuit design companies focused on the internet of things. Its products are widely recognized in the machine vision and automotive electronics industries.

The scale of Fuzhou’s digital economy reached 790 billion yuan in 2024, representing 56 percent of GDP.

The city’s traditional industries have also undergone transformation and upgrading, driven by scientific and technological innovation.

In Changle district, the city’s textile center, nearly 700 businesses and more than 10,000 machines have been connected to the Fujian (Changle) textile industrial internet platform.

“The platform utilizes artificial intelligence-driven terminal devices to monitor our tricot machines and automatically adjust parameters. Compared with the past, it has reduced downtime by 10 percent and lowered operating costs by 15 percent by optimizing material consumption and working-hour allocation,” said Liu Tianzhen, general manager of Fujian Jiegao Textile.

As a national marine economy development demonstration zone, Fuzhou has led the country in fishery output value for 30 years. It is also China’s second-largest producer of aquatic products.

Lianjiang county, known as China’s hometown of abalone, contributes one third of the nation’s total abalone farming output.

The county has opened 11 deep-sea aquaculture facilities, accelerating its shift toward “smart fishing”. Of them, Fubao No 1, equipped with smart monitoring systems and a windproof structure, can produce 45 metric tons of abalone annually.

As a key city on the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, Fuzhou has actively integrated into China’s new development paradigm, expanding its opening-up and international cooperation.

Focused on reform and innovation, the Fuzhou Area of China (Fujian) Pilot Free Trade Zone has released 114 pioneering measures since it was founded in 2015, 25 of which have been replicated and promoted nationwide.

Under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, the China-Indonesia “Two Countries, Twin Parks” project has played a vital role in promoting bilateral economic and trade exchanges, based on the Fuzhou Yuanhong Investment Zone in the county-level city of Fuqing, as well as industrial parks in Bintan, Aviarna, and Badung, Indonesia.

By 2024, the investment zone had attracted 73 collaborative projects, with total investment of 93 billion yuan.

In partnership with Salim Group, Saneheld (Fuqing) Food is developing a marine fisheries center in Indonesia. So far, two production bases have been built in Tuban city.

Zhaohua Aquatic Food has invested in a 400-hectare Pacific white shrimp farm, ensuring a stable supply of frozen shrimps from Indonesia to Fuzhou for deep processing, cutting production costs.

The investment zone is now constructing a food industry park covering 4.53 hectares, which is expected to start operations in 2026 and inject impetus into its food industry.