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China debuts first mixed-mode autonomous railway yard to boost logistics efficiency


YIWU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2025 – China has launched its first railway container terminal with mixed-mode autonomous driving capabilities, a move aimed at building an efficient, low-carbon, and intelligent modern comprehensive transportation system and reducing whole society logistics costs.

The first train of the sea-rail intermodal service from Yiwu International Hub Port to Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has officially departed.
The first train of the sea-rail intermodal service from Yiwu International Hub Port to Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has officially departed.

The Suxi container handling station in Yiwu, east China’s Zhejiang Province, began operations on June 27, with a freight train carrying 100 standard containers departing for the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, the world’s busiest cargo hub by tonnage, according to the Hangzhou Railway Logistics Center of the China Railway Shanghai Bureau Group.

The Suxi container handling station, the country's first railway terminal for automated driving in a mixed operation mode, has been opened for use.
The Suxi container handling station, the country’s first railway terminal for automated driving in a mixed operation mode, has been opened for use.

As part of the Yiwu (Suxi) International Hub Port, the terminal connects to the Ningbo-Jinhua Railway and has an annual design capacity of 660,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). It features a rail loading zone, a container yard, a customs supervision area, and a digital management system.

The facility, approved as China’s first railway yard autonomous driving experimental zone, integrates remote-controlled gantry cranes, automated storage systems, and intelligent transporters to enable unmanned operations alongside traditional workflows. This hybrid model marks a milestone in China’s push to modernize logistics infrastructure, according to industry officials.

“This sets a new standard for autonomous operations in China’s railway network,” said Li Jinsong, deputy director of the Hangzhou Railway Logistics Center. “The mixed-mode design allows for seamless integration of automated and manual processes, enhancing efficiency while ensuring operational flexibility.”

Zhao Jianmin, general manager of Zhejiang Seaport Yiwu Hub Port Co., Ltd, highlighted the terminal’s role in connecting inland Yiwu with the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, enabling “one-time declaration, inspection, and release” for goods.

By establishing a logistics corridor connecting the two regions, the terminal reduces transit times and costs, as cargo entering the Suxi station is treated as if it has arrived at the seaport, Zhao said.

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

VenHub Launches 24/7 Autonomous Smart Store in Hollywood, Expanding AI Retail in One of LA’s Busiest Districts


Los Angeles, California – Newsfile Corp. – 1 July 2025 – VenHub Global, Inc. (“VenHub” or the “Company”), a leader in fully autonomous, AI-powered retail, today announced the installation of its newest Smart Store at 1841 N Highland Avenue in Hollywood, California, just steps from the iconic Hollywood Bowl. Located in one of the city’s most active corridors, this 24/7 autonomous store will bring fast, precise, and contactless shopping to both the local community and the thousands of attendees visiting the Hollywood Bowl for concerts and events throughout the year.

This high-traffic deployment represents another strategic step in VenHub’s Southern California expansion following recent rollouts at Metro Transit Center at LAX, Glendale, and North Hollywood. Store assembly is currently underway and will be completed within days. A formal ribbon-cutting and press preview will follow next week.

A Store Designed for Today’s Retail Reality

“Launching in Hollywood is more than a location decision, it’s a service commitment,” said Shahan Ohanessian, Founder & CEO of VenHub. “We’re here to serve a vibrant community that never slows down. Whether it’s residents going about their day or guests heading to a show at the Bowl, people deserve retail that is fast, accurate, secure, and always open. That is what VenHub delivers.”

He continued, “There is extraordinary demand for what we’re building. We are in discussions with location leaders, public agencies, business owners, and enterprise partners across the country and around the world who recognize VenHub as a trusted solution for modern retail access. We are working tirelessly to expand our production capabilities. Several additional states are already in our expansion pipeline, and more updates will be shared soon as we grow our footprint in California and beyond.”

Shahan added, “To our stakeholders, we thank you. We hear you, we listen to you, and we are working tirelessly to meet your needs. We know how difficult the current conditions are in the retail world, and we are here to create solutions and open new opportunities for everyone. That is the mission, and we are proud to stand behind it.”

Each VenHub Smart Store is a fully autonomous unit that operates with no on-site staff. Customers enjoy mobile-first checkout and a seamless shopping experience powered by robotics and intelligent systems that ensure speed, precision, and security. The platform is built to meet the demands of today’s fast-moving environments and is designed for contactless, efficient, and around-the-clock retail service.

Building Across Communities

VenHub’s Hollywood launch is part of a broader rollout across Southern California in collaboration with municipalities and transportation partners. The Company remains focused on placing Smart Stores in locations where people live, move, and gather. This includes transit hubs, commercial corridors, and high-density residential areas. Every installation is designed to enhance access, support real-world convenience, and operate as reliable infrastructure communities can count on.

Media Contact:
Alyssa Barry, Alliance Advisors Investor Relations
abarry@allianceadvisors.com

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

About VenHub Global Inc.

VenHub is building the retail infrastructure of the future. With a bold vision to modernize access to goods and services, VenHub delivers scalable, autonomous Smart Store technology across the U.S. and beyond. From major metro regions to local neighborhoods, fixed units to mobile deployments, VenHub brings automation, intelligence, and convenience wherever people need it.

VenHub’s AI-powered Smart Stores operate 24/7 with no on-site employees, adapting dynamically to customer behavior, local conditions, and operator preferences. With a focus on safety, speed, and scale, VenHub is setting a new standard for retail that never sleeps.

To learn more, visit:

Safe Harbor Statement

VenHub Global Inc. and its subsidiaries (“VenHub” or the “Company”), may make forward-looking statements regarding future events or the future financial performance of the Company in press releases, presentations, conference calls, or other communications. These statements can be identified by terminology that includes “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “foresees,” “forecasts,” “estimates,” “intends,” “plans,” “targets,” or other words conveying future outcomes or projections.

Such forward-looking statements involve certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict and beyond the Company’s control. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including but not limited to changes in general economic conditions, the Company’s ability to execute its business strategy, competitive pressures, unanticipated manufacturing or supply chain issues, compliance with regulatory requirements, and other risks detailed in the Company’s public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Nothing in these forward-looking statements should be regarded as a representation by VenHub or its management that the Company’s objectives or plans will be achieved. VenHub undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Doi Ka Noi’s Final Dish: How a Lao Chef’s Cookbook Became Her Greatest Legacy

Doi Ka Noi’s Final Dish: How a Lao Chef’s Cookbook Became Her Greatest Legacy
photo credit: Mick Shippen

Doi Ka Noi, a renowned Lao restaurant in Vientiane Capital known for its ever-changing seasonal menu and commitment to authentic Lao recipes, closed permanently on 13 May. 

Tourism Fuels Revenue Surge in Luang Prabang in Five Months of 2025

Luang Prabang Province (Photo: faheyjamestravel)

Luang Prabang earned nearly LAK 700 billion (USD 32 million) in the first five months of 2025, with tourism playing a significant role, said Khammouane Khambounme, Head of the Provincial Tax Department.

Trio of 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA Chefs Present a Six-Michelin-Star Culinary Extravaganza at Galaxy Macau

Legendary Italian chef Umberto Bombana joins forces with the Executive Chefs of his Macau and Shanghai restaurants to celebrate the season of Australian Black Truffle and award-winning wine list at 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2025 – Galaxy Macau™, the world-class luxury integrated resort, stands as a premier culinary destination with its exquisite and diverse lineup of gastronomic offerings. This summer, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau presents an exclusive culinary extravaganza, as a trio of Michelin-starred chefs come together to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience on July 18 and 19.

8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau presents an exclusive culinary extravaganza, as a trio of Michelin-starred chefs come together to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience on July 18 and 19.
8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau presents an exclusive culinary extravaganza, as a trio of Michelin-starred chefs come together to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience on July 18 and 19.

Legendary Chef Umberto Bombana, owner of the three-Michelin-starred 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA in Hong Kong, is joining hands with Chef Marino D’Antonio of his one-Michelin-starred Macau restaurant and Chef Nicoló Rotella of his two-Michelin-starred Shanghai restaurant for the very first time. Boasting six Michelin stars between them, this trio of gastronomic mastery will orchestrate an exquisite feast that showcases the alluring culinary gem from the Southern Hemisphere – the Australian Black Truffle, alongside the finest produce from around the globe and the restaurant’s award-winning wine list – which has recently been crowned the Gold Star winner of both “Best Long List” and “Best Italian Wine List” in the Star Wine List of the Year Asia 2025, named a finalist of Best Long List in the Star Wine List of the Year International Final 2025, and also retained the “Best of Award of Excellence” by the Wine Spectator magazine.

The exquisite feast will showcase the alluring culinary gem from the Southern Hemisphere – Australian Black Truffle
The exquisite feast will showcase the alluring culinary gem from the Southern Hemisphere – Australian Black Truffle

This six-Michelin-star collaboration is available only for dinner on Friday, July 18, and for lunch and dinner on Saturday, July 19, priced at MOP1,280 per person for a four-course lunch, and MOP3,280 per person for an eight-course dinner. An optional wine pairing is also available for an additional MOP880 and MOP1,380 for lunch and dinner respectively.

Embrace the Harvest Season of the Australian Black Truffle

Celebrating the Australian Black Truffle season in full bloom, Chef Marino D’Antonio of 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau has crafted a selection of delicate dishes that highlight the unique aroma and incredible taste of this exceptional seasonal ingredient. Be sure to also savour the deep collection of fine wines expertly curated by the restaurant’s seasoned sommelier. A refreshed lunch menu with signature dishes of Chef-Owner, Umberto Bombana, as well as exquisite creations inspired by Executive Chef Marino D’Antonio’s upbringing in Bergamo, Northern Italy, is also available from Thursday to Saturday.

Chef Marino D’Antonio crafts a selection of delicate dishes that highlight the unique aroma and incredible taste of Australian Black Truffle.
Chef Marino D’Antonio crafts a selection of delicate dishes that highlight the unique aroma and incredible taste of Australian Black Truffle.

Since its opening in 2015, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau has garnered numerous accolades, including a Michelin one-star rating for ten consecutive years and a Forbes Travel Guide five-star rating for four years running. The restaurant’s décor harmoniously blends modern and classic styles, creating an elegant and inviting atmosphere. Guests can indulge in not only exquisite cuisine but also the cultural essence of Italy, experiencing a dining environment that beautifully interprets contemporary artistic elegance. With outstanding service, diners are treated to a feast for both the eyes and the palate, as well as an experience of the essence and soul of Italian gastronomy.

The restaurant’s award-winning wine list has a deep collection of fine wines expertly curated by the restaurant’s seasoned sommelier.
The restaurant’s award-winning wine list has a deep collection of fine wines expertly curated by the restaurant’s seasoned sommelier.

For inquiries and reservations, please call +853 8886 2169 or email: bombana@galaxyentertainment.com

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort

Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies.

Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.

Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events.

Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit , and .

Thailand Constitutional Court Suspends PM

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is swarmed by members of the media after a cabinet meeting at Government House in Bangkok on July 1, 2025. (Photo by Lillian SUWANRUMPHA / AFP)

UPDATED on 1 July at 2:27 PM

The Laotian Times and AFP – Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended by the country’s Constitutional Court on 1 July, as it opened a probe into her conduct in a diplomatic spat with Cambodia.

“The Constitutional Court with a majority of 7-2 suspends the respondent from Prime Ministerial duty from 1 July until the Constitutional Court has made its ruling,” said a statement, after a group of conservative senators lodged a case accusing Paetongtarn of breaching ministerial ethics during a border row with Cambodia.

Shortly after the suspension announcement, Paetongtarn briefly addressed the decision before the press saying, “The ruling has come out and I accept the court decision. I have 15 days to make a declaration. I’m going to do my best. I will declare my true intention behind the leaked phone call.”

“However, the method that I used may not suit the preference of a lot of individuals. Nevertheless, I am willing to prove that it is all my intention, my effort, over 100 percent,  that I did it all for the country. It is definitely not for personal benefit. I’ve only thought about how to prevent chaos or resorting to battle.”

A long-standing territorial dispute boiled over into cross-border clashes in May, killing one Cambodian soldier.

When Paetongtarn called Cambodian statesman Hun Sen to discuss tensions, she called him “uncle” and referred to a Thai military commander as her “opponent”, according to a leaked recording which caused a backlash.

Conservative lawmakers accuse her of kowtowing to Cambodia and undermining the military, and allege she breached constitutional provisions requiring “evident integrity” and “ethical standards” among ministers.

Death Toll Rises to Eight, Two Missing in Saraburi Factory Blaze

Death Toll Rises to Eight, Two Missing in Saraburi Factory Blaze
Top view of the tissue factory (photo credit: Thai PBS)

A fire that broke out on 30 June at a tissue paper factory in Saraburi’s Hemaraj Industrial Estate has claimed at least eight lives, with two people still missing and over 20 others injured, according to local authorities.

Green Reporting Training Enhances Digital Literacy of Lao Journalists

The opening ceremony

Journalists, civil society actors, and youth from across Laos are strengthening their digital reporting skills on environmental issues through the Green Action through Media, Mass Organizations, and Civil Society in Laos (GAMCIL) project. The training, themed “Green Issue Reporting,” is taking place in Vientiane Capital from 30 June to 4 July.