DOHA, Qatar, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Power International Holding (PIH), a globally recognized Qatari-based conglomerate, has officially completed the acquisition of a 100% participatory interest in Mobile Telecom-Service LLP (MTS) from Kazakhtelecom JSC.

This acquisition follows the initial agreement signed on February 14, 2024, in Doha between PIH, Kazakhtelecom, and the sovereign wealth fund Samruk- Kazyna as well as the signing of the definitive sale and purchase agreement on June 4, 2024.

MTS, known for its prominent brands Altel and Tele2, is the country’s leading provider of ultrafast 5G connectivity. Established in 2004, MTS employs around 2,000 staff and operates over 140 retail stores. The company offers a comprehensive range of telecommunications and digital services, making it a cornerstone of Kazakhstan’s telecommunications landscape.

This financing was led by Citi and QNB as Coordinators, Bookrunners, and Mandated Lead Arrangers, with Halyk Bank JSCas a Mandated Lead Arranger, and ICBC Standard Bank Plc, Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait B.S.C, and Commercial Bank International PJSC  as Arrangers.”

Mr. Ramez AlKhayyat President of Power International Holding, commented:  “Power International Holding’s telecommunications group is a key component of the Company’s strategic growth. Through this acquisition, we aim to significantly contribute to the development of the telecommunications and technology sectors, offering innovative solutions that will enhance the digital experience in Kazakhstan and empower the digital transformation of the country.

He added : “The closing of this transaction is an important step for us and marks the strong trust and confidence that renowned financial institutions have placed in us. With this acquisition, we are poised to further strengthen our expansion strategy, in the telecomunication and digital sector, in several countries of the world.”

QNB Group, the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, the leader on the landmark transaction, has played a vital role in leading the conglomerate towards closing the deal. Mr. Abdulla Mubarak Al-Khalifa, QNB Group Chief Executive Officer commented: “We are proud to have played a pivotal role in facilitating the acquisition of Mobile Telecom-Service LLP by Power International Holding. This strategic financing not only underscores QNB’s commitment to supporting key investments in the telecommunications sector but also demonstrates our dedication to fostering growth and innovation. We believe that this acquisition will enhance connectivity and drive economic development, aligning with our vision of empowering businesses.”

“We are delighted to have led this landmark acquisition financing for PIH in partnership with QNB. The transaction demonstrates Citi’s unparalleled capabilities in emerging markets with on ground presence in Qatar and Kazakhstan, our industry expertise with telecom clients globally and Loans & Acquisition Finance structuring expertise to deliver a successful outcome.” Ebru Pakcan, Citi Middle East and Africa Cluster and Banking Head stated.

The acquisition inaugurates Power International Holding’s expansion in Kazakhstan, achieving the company’s active plan to diversify its investment streams.

On this occasion Mr. Eyad Abdulrahim PIH Group Chief Finance and Investment Officer commented:

“This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Power International Holding as we expand into Kazakhstan’s rapidly growing telecommunications sector. The deal involved navigating complex regulatory and financial landscapes, requiring extensive collaboration and coordination with global partners. Securing funding through an international syndicate of leading financial institutions was a key part of the process, reflecting strong confidence in the our acquisition’s long-term potential. We are committed to using this investment to enhance infrastructure, including the deployment of 5G technology, to improve service quality and delivering advanced communication solutions to meet the evolving needs of Kazakhstan’s population”

Mr. George Barakat, PIH Group Chief Treasury Officer, commented: “We are pleased to announce the successful completion of our leveraged buyout acquisition, marking a significant advancement in our strategic growth initiatives. The strong demand and support from both regional and international banks, resulting in an oversubscription of the financing, underscores the market’s confidence in our strategic vision. The positive response from the banking sector further reinforces our financial strength and the trust placed in the Group’s ability to execute complex transactions.

About Power International Holding:

Power International Holding (PIH) is a premier global enterprise headquartered in Qatar, recognized for its diversified portfolio and strategic contributions across 14 key sectors. With operations spanning Energy and Natural resources , Concessions power and infrastructure, Construction; Healthcare and Professional Services; Real Estate Development; Telecommunications, Media, and Technology; Agriculture and Food Industries; and Lifestyle.

PIH is committed to driving innovation and delivering sustainable value worldwide.

Supported by over 65,000 professionals representing 91 nationalities, PIH has successfully delivered more than 1,250 projects in 19 countries, shaping industries and advancing global development.

Guided by its vision to create a brighter future from Qatar to the world, PIH upholds the highest standards of quality, resilience, and leadership in every endeavor. The group remains dedicated to fostering innovation, developing future leaders, and preserving its legacy of excellence.

For more information, visit www.powerholding-intl.com 

About QNB Group:

QNB Group is one of the leading financial institutions in the Middle East and Africa region and among the most valuable banking brands in the regional market. Present in over 28 countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa, it offers tailored products and services supported by innovation and backed by a team of over 31,000 professionals dedicated to driving banking excellence worldwide.

About Citi:

Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 180 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services. Additional information may be found at www.citigroup.com | X: @Citi | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi

SHANGHAI, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Vanguard 1P trackers of TrinaTracker, a subsidiary of Trinasolar, have received Carbon Footprint Verification from the global inspections, certifications and laboratory testing provider Bureau Veritas. The certification process encompasses raw material procurement, pre-processing, manufacturing and transportation. This certification affirms that the greenhouse gas emissions of the Vanguard 1P trackers throughout their lifecycle comply with the requirements set forth in ISO 14067:2018 (Greenhouse gases — Carbon footprint of products — Requirements and guidelines for quantification). TrinaTracker, a leading smart tracking system provider, is committed to delivering innovative, sustainable and low-carbon products to its global customer base. The latest certification not only underscores this commitment but also establishes a benchmark for sustainable development worldwide.

Bureau Veritas, founded in 1828 and based in France, provides independent verification services in many areas, including quality, environmental management, occupational health and safety, and social responsibility, with certifications that are globally trusted.

In October TrinaTracker was honored with the Green Supply Chain Leadership Award by Bureau Veritas for its exceptional contributions to incorporating green principles throughout the entire supply chain, accelerated green transformation of supply chains, promoting resource efficiency and minimizing environmental impact through technological innovation.

TrinaTracker’s outstanding carbon footprint performance reflects a strong commitment to the sustainability management philosophy of Trinasolar. The company achieved several significant milestones in its green development journey last year: In March the global safety science leader UL Solutions awarded Trinasolar’s full range of Vertex N products with Product Carbon Footprint Certification; in June TrinaTracker’s manufacturing plant in Viana, Spain, received Bureau Veritas’ Organizational Carbon Footprint Certification; and in November Trinasolar’s Vertex N PV modules passed the rigorous carbon emissions review conducted by the French Energy Regulatory Commission, earning French Carbon Footprint Certification and securing market access to France.

Trinasolar is deeply committed to combating climate change and will continue to reduce carbon emissions across its operations and value chain. By advancing zero-carbon operations, establishing a zero-carbon value chain and producing zero-carbon products, Trinasolar aims to create a zero-carbon model. This commitment not only supports the global fight against climate change but also reinforces the company’s dedication to environmental protection and making a significant contribution to the transition to sustainable energy.

SHENZHEN, China, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CHIGEE, the innovative motorcycle riding system manufacturer, announces its first-ever appearance at AIMExpo 2025, North America’s premier powersports trade show. From February 5-7, 2025, CHIGEE will showcase its complete product lineup alongside the highly anticipated AIO-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center’s South Hall, booth #8088.

“We’re looking forward to meeting with riders and industry professionals at AIMExpo,” said the CHIGEE team. “This event provides an excellent opportunity to showcase our advanced riding systems and develop our distribution network in North America.”

The CHIGEE team will be available throughout the show for product demonstrations and technical consultations. As part of our North American expansion, we welcome distributors and dealers to explore partnership opportunities. Interested parties can apply via this form.

Show attendees can experience hands-on demonstrations of CHIGEE’s full product range, including a preview of the new AIO-6 system. The new AIO-6 introduces a larger 6-inch screen with all-new UI design, bringing riders a more intuitive and clearer navigation experience. To stay updated on product launches and show specials, follow CHIGEE on Facebook or visit the official website.

Event Details:

• Date: February 5-7, 2025
• Location: Las Vegas Convention Center – South Hall
• Booth: #8088

Launching in 2024 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, the CHIGEE AIO-5 series embodies a clear mission: bringing smart technology to all riders. This versatile system fits most motorcycles and provides essential features like real-time navigation and sunset times to better plan your trip. Equipped with comprehensive dash cam features, the top-tier AIO-5 Lite safeguards your rides by recording and storing vital video evidence.

Riders are finding their journeys truly improved with CHIGEE’s innovative smart system. “As a daily commuter and weekend touring enthusiast, CHIGEE’s system has been a game-changer for me. The GPS navigation is crystal clear even in bright sunlight, and I no longer need to stop every time I get a message – CarPlay handles that seamlessly. The dash cam gives me extra peace of mind, especially during group rides. It’s like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone – you don’t realize how much you needed it until you have it.” — Touring enthusiast, California, USA.

To schedule a meeting at AIMExpo 2025 or learn more about CHIGEE products, please visit chigee.com or contact press@chigeego.com. For media inquiries, including high-resolution product images, company details, and technical specifications, please visit our press room.

About CHIGEE

CHIGEE, founded in 2020, pioneers motorcycle smart technology. The name CHIGEE derives from ‘riding technology’ in Chinese, reflecting the company’s mission to create innovative devices that transform riding experiences. With extensive R&D and global testing, CHIGEE delivers exceptional products for riders worldwide.

Facebook: Chigee Global
Instagram: @chigeeglobal
Youtube: Chigee Official

Contact Information
CHIGEE PR Team
Email: press@chigeego.com
Website: www.chigee.com

PANAMA CITY, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BingX, a global leader in cryptocurrency exchanges, has solidified its position as an industry innovator by becoming the first exchange to offer spot trading services for $TRUMP, which launched on January 18 at 12:50 (UTC+8), followed by the introduction of coin-margined futures trading for $TRUMP the very next day. Furthermore, BingX provided users with the earliest access to perpetual trading for $MELANIA, along with spot trading support. These efforts align with BingX’s broader strategy to expand its product offerings and provide users with a cutting-edge trading experience.

Digital assets like $TRUMP and $MELANIA are part of the rising trend of meme coin — cryptocurrencies inspired by cultural movements or popular figures. These tokens’ value is primarily driven by community interest and market activity. BingX’s support for such assets shows its dedication to addressing the growing demand for a variety of trading options in the crypto space.

$TRUMP stands out with its Coin-Margined Futures on BingX, providing traders with advanced tools to diversify their trading strategies. Users now are able to trade $TRUMP with the margin for futures trading on BingX, enhancing portfolio flexibility and capital efficiency. $MELANIA is currently supported by both spot and perpetual futures trading pairs, providing both experienced traders and newcomers plenty of trading options to choose from.

In addition to the listing of $TRUMP and $MELANIA, BingX has launched several campaigns to enhance the trading experience for its users. Starting January 18 at 14:00 (UTC+8), BingX introduced zero-fee trading for $TRUMP. Additionally, users can participate in various promotions to win tokens and airdrops through deposits and trading activities.

“The rise of personality-driven tokens like $TRUMP and $MELANIA reflects a broader trend where the crypto market intersects with finance and social movements.” Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer of BingX, commented on the significance of these new listings: “These tokens are more than just monetary assets; they capture identity and sentiment. As these assets evolve within the broader blockchain ecosystem, it’s essential for platforms like BingX to innovate with products that balance volatility with educational resources, empowering users to navigate this dynamic landscape. Our focus remains on creating a robust platform that supports diverse investments while ensuring transparency and security.”

About BingX 

Founded in 2018, BingX is a leading crypto exchange, serving over 10 million users worldwide. BingX offers diversified products and services, including spot, derivatives, copy trading, and asset management – all designed for the evolving needs of users, from beginners to professionals. BingX is committed to providing a trustworthy platform that empowers users with innovative tools and features to elevate their trading proficiency. In 2024, BingX proudly became the official crypto exchange partner of Chelsea Football Club, marking an exciting debut in the world of sports.

For more information please visit: https://bingx.com/

SHENZHEN, China, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CES 2025, held from January 7-10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, once again solidified its role as the premier global platform for technological innovation, with ZHAOWEI (Shenzhen ZHAOWEI Machinery & Electronics Co., Ltd) making a strong impression. As a leading provider of intelligent robotics and high-performance motor solutions, ZHAOWEI showcased its groundbreaking Dexterous Hand, alongside other pioneering solutions across consumer electronics, automotive, and medical sectors. These innovations reinforced ZHAOWEI’s position as a key player in shaping the future of robotics and micro-drive systems.

The exhibition attracted significant attention from some of the most influential leaders in the technology and manufacturing industries. Notably, ZHAOWEI’s booth was visited by Seok Woo Nam, Chief Technology Officer of Samsung, as well as senior representatives from Apple, Amazon, TCL, Sony, and Fuji. These high-profile visitors underscored the growing importance of ZHAOWEI’s innovations and highlighted the company’s pivotal role in advancing next-generation technologies.

Key Product Highlights

ZHAOWEI’s Dexterous Hand was one of the most talked-about exhibits at CES 2025. Visitors had the opportunity to experience the hand’s real-time demonstrations, interacting with its intricate capabilities of visual sensing, tactile perception and remote control. Here is what makes this model a standout:

Advanced Flexibility and Precision

• 17-20 Degrees of Freedom: Leveraging a sophisticated blend of parallel and linear motors, the product’s expansive range of motion makes it capable of handling complex, intricate tasks with exceptional accuracy, which is highly desirable in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.
• Independent Joint Movement: Each joint’s autonomy allows for precise, coordinated operations, such as gripping, twisting, and delicate object manipulation with exceptional accuracy. This function is critical for tasks like assembly, surgery, or even handling delicate materials.

Human-like Dexterity

• The human-like movement facilitated by the combination of independent finger control and force feedback makes it an ideal solution for environments where human-like interaction with objects is required, such as collaborative robotics in industries or prosthetic devices.
• This feature enhances its appeal in sectors requiring high adaptability, such as medical robotics, where the ability to perform delicate procedures or handle various instruments with care is crucial.

Compact and Durability

• Its compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for integration into existing robotic systems where space is limited or weight is a concern. This is particularly advantageous for industries that require lightweight solutions without sacrificing performance, such as drones, automation in tight spaces, and wearable robotics.
• Built to withstand continuous use, the durability and long service life of the Dexterous Hand ensure it delivers long-term value. This is especially important in industries where high-volume, continuous operation is necessary, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or replacements.

“We are proud to have participated in CES 2025 and to have engaged with some of the most influential figures in the global tech landscape,” said Li Haizhou, Chairman of ZHAOWEI. “This year’s exhibition provided us with an invaluable opportunity to showcase our latest advancements and forge meaningful connections with key stakeholders. We look forward to continuing our efforts in shaping the future of intelligent systems and driving technological progress across multiple sectors.”

ZHAOWEI is unwavering in its commitment to sustaining its innovative spirit and expanding its global influence. A key part of the company’s growth strategy is its international expansion, with a particular focus on strengthening its presence in the North American market. In July 2024, ZHAOWEI established its fully owned U.S. subsidiary, ZW Drive Inc. This strategic move is designed to enhance the company’s service capabilities in North America, meet local market demands more effectively, and foster closer collaboration with customers and partners in the region.

About ZHAOWEI

Founded in 2001, ZHAOWEI specializes in developing advanced micro drive systems. With over two decades of experience in the field of micro drive, ZHAOWEI’s expertise not only lies in providing a wide option of high-performance motors but also in developing tailored drive systems for clients’ applications. Known for its relentless commitment to innovation and quality, ZHAOWEI partners with global leaders to deliver technologies that drive progress and enhance human life.

SHANGHAI, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CARsgen Therapeutics Holdings Limited (Stock Code: 2171.HK), a company focused on innovative CAR T-cell therapies for the treatment of hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, announces that KJ-C2320, an allogeneic CAR T-cell therapy targeting CD38, has administered the first dose to a patient in an investigator-initiated trial (IIT).

KJ-C2320 is developed based on CARsgen’s THANK-uCAR^® platform. An investigator-initiated trial is ongoing in China to evaluate KJ-C2320 for the treatment of relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (R/R AML).

About THANK-uCAR^®

THANK (Target to Hinder the Attack of NK cells)-uCAR^® is CARsgen’s proprietary technology to generate allogeneic CAR-T cells with improved expansion and persistence by modifying donor-derived T cells. To minimize graft versus host disease (GvHD) and host versus graft response (HvGR) from allogeneic T cells, we disrupt the genomic loci encoding TCR and beta-2 microglobulin (B2M) to eliminate surface expression of the TCR or the human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I), an approach that has been validated by previous research. However, natural killer (NK) cells can attack T cells without HLA-I expression, which then limits the expansion and persistence of the allogeneic CAR-T cells. To protect the allogeneic CAR-T cells from the patient’s NK cells’ attacks, we arm these TCR^–/B2M^–T cells with a CAR that recognizes NKG2A to hinder the NKG2A-positive NK cell rejection of the CAR T cells and therefore allow the THANK-uCAR-T cells to resist the attack by NK cells. Clinical studies have demonstrated that the BCMA CAR-T therapy developed on the THANK-uCAR^® platform can expand in patients achieving complete response to levels comparable to autologous CAR-T, showing preliminary evidence of controllable safety and promising efficacy.

About CARsgen Therapeutics Holdings Limited

CARsgen is a biopharmaceutical company with operations in China and the U.S., focusing on innovative CAR T-cell therapies for the treatment of hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. CARsgen has established a comprehensive CAR T-cell research and development platform that covers target discovery, innovative CAR T-cell development, clinical trials, and commercial-scale production. Internally, CARsgen has developed novel technologies and a product pipeline with global rights to address significant challenges faced by existing CAR T-cell therapies. Efforts include improving safety profile, enhancing the efficacy in treating solid tumors, and reducing treatment costs. CARsgen’s mission is to become a global biopharmaceutical leader that provides innovative and differentiated cell therapies for cancer patients worldwide and makes cancer curable.

Forward-looking Statements

All statements in this press release that are not historical fact or that do not relate to present facts or current conditions are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements express the Group’s current views, projections, beliefs and expectations with respect to future events as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and factors beyond the Group’s control. As a result, they are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, and actual events or results may differ materially from these forward-looking statements and the forward-looking events discussed in this press release might not occur. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those detailed under the heading “Principal Risks and Uncertainties” in our most recent annual report and interim report and other announcements and reports made available on our corporate website, https://www.carsgen.com. No representation or warranty is given as to the achievement or reasonableness of, and no reliance should be placed on, any projections, targets, estimates or forecasts contained in this press release.

Contact CARsgen

For more information, please visit https://www.carsgen.com/

TAMPA, Fla., Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Concept Medical Inc. (CMI), a global leader in innovative drug-delivery technology across vascular interventions, proudly announces the successful completion of patient enrolment in the SirPAD Trial, with over 1,250 patients now enrolled.

Concept Medical proudly announces that over 1,250 patients have successfully enrolled in the SirPAD Trial.

The SirPAD (Major adverse limb events in patients with femoro-popliteal and below-the-knee peripheral arterial disease treated with either sirolimus-coated or uncoated balloon) randomised controlled trial is the world’s largest study evaluating the treatment of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) using the MagicTouch PTA Sirolimus Coated Balloon (Concept Medical Inc.) versus uncoated balloons and one of the largest device studies ever performed for PAD.

More than 1,250 patients have been enrolled and will be followed up at 12 months to assess the primary outcome of major adverse limb events (MALE). Final results are expected by Q1-Q2 2026.

SirPAD is an investigator-initiated, multi-centre, randomized, open-label trial that aims to determine whether the MagicTouch PTA sirolimus-coated balloon is non-inferior to plain old balloon angioplasty (POBA). The trial will also explore the potential for superiority.

Principal Investigators Prof. Dr. med. Nils Kucher and Prof. Dr. med. Stefano Barco, from the University Hospital Zurich, who leads this ambitious study, said, “Sirolimus-coated balloons represent a promising technology in treating symptomatic PAD, supported by evidence primarily from studies with surrogate endpoints. While trials like SIRONA and ongoing studies such as SirPAD are expanding knowledge, robust data from randomized controlled trials with clinical outcomes are needed to guide treatment and shape future guidelines. This result, having been able to randomize so many patients in a PAD device study, is unprecedented and we are very thankful to all investigators and patients for having supported the trial” on achieving the significant milestone of enrolling 1,250+ patients and successfully completing this phase of the study.

With sirolimus-coated balloons gathering global momentum and MagicTouch PTA at the forefront, SirPAD is a crucial milestone in expanding the evidence for PAD treatment options. While patients with PAD have limited therapeutic avenues, SirPAD aims to bolster data supporting sirolimus-coated balloon technology. This large RCT was critical to evaluating treatment alternatives, and its year-long follow-up will provide much-anticipated answers.

“At Concept Medical, we are committed to generating robust clinical evidence to support our innovative technologies. Following the successful completion of SIRONA—the largest superficial femoral artery (SFA) trial comparing our device against paclitaxel drug-coated balloons (DCBs), which demonstrated non-inferiority—we are proud to announce the completion of enrollment for another historical milestone: the largest randomised clinical trial for peripheral all-comers patients, completed enrolment of 1250+ patients. With this achievement, Concept Medical continues to lead the way with the most extensive and advanced clinical trial program in the field, reinforcing our position as a global pioneer in patient-centric vascular innovations,” said Dr. Manish Doshi, Founder & Managing Director of Concept Medical.

About Concept Medical

Concept Medical Inc., headquartered in Tampa, Florida, has a global presence and is dedicated to enhancing patient care through cutting-edge research and development of drug-delivery technologies. Its proprietary platforms are designed to deliver pharmaceutical agents across vascular luminal surfaces with unparalleled precision. Concept Medical is the developer of the MagicTouch family of Sirolimus Coated Balloons (SCBs)—the world’s first and most utilized SCB technology—well recognized for its versatility and efficacy in treating coronary and peripheral artery disease. The revolutionary MagicTouch and Abluminus product lines have been used to treat over a million patients globally, setting a new standard for vascular therapy.

For more information, please visit www.conceptmedical.com

LOS BAÑOS, Philippines, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and smart agriculture technology leader XAG are set to accelerate agricultural automation and innovation in the Philippines through digital agriculture and precision farming using drone technology.  Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), IRRI and XAG will collaborate to validate the application of smart agriculture technologies in rice-based cropping systems through experimentation and research.

XAG, through its Philippine partner Agridom, has donated agricultural drones to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) to support its mission of advancing precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices. Agridom pioneered the introduction of XAG agricultural drones in the Philippines, bringing cutting-edge technology to local farmers and institutions. This collaboration with IRRI demonstrates Agridom’s unwavering commitment to driving agricultural innovation and empowering the sector with tools that enhance productivity and sustainability.

“Drones have been increasingly used for high throughput phenotyping, crop monitoring, improving agricultural productivity, and supporting precision farming. By providing efficient tools for crop monitoring, precision input application, and data-driven decision-making, drones provide the potential to significantly reduce costs and increase yields, optimizing resource use and minimizing environmental impact,” explained IRRI Senior Scientist and Digital Agriculture and Precision Farming Lead Engr. Steve Klassen.

This meant that drones could rapidly provide measurements of traits related to growth, yield, and stress adaptation. This technology is particularly valuable to smallholder farmers who must improve their productivity and reduce production costs to be competitive and stay in business in response to climate change, labor shortages, and higher input costs.

However, drone adoption in the Philippines is hindered by limited access to technology, lack of standard protocols, financial resources, and regulatory constraints. “To overcome these challenges, we need a comprehensive approach that involves targeted training, guidelines for best practices, financial incentives, and supportive government policies.”, Klassen said.

Klassen’s team is also working with the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) – National Program, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), and their allied bureaus on the Drones4Rice Project, which aims to streamline and standardize drone protocols for applying seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides in the Philippines. The donated drones will support the ongoing Drones4Rice project and other IRRI global initiatives on sustainable farming and digital accelerators.

“IRRI is a key research and technology partner in the Philippines, and through this effort, we hope to contribute to the country’s agricultural competitiveness through drone-based technologies.” shared XAG Head of International Business Wei Tong. “XAG’s agricultural drones can be applied to various precision farming scenarios, specifically but not limited to direct seeding, pesticide spraying, fertilizer operation, and remote sensing. We hope to expand our engagements abroad to strengthen global food security and tackle climate change, as rice is the primary staple food that feeds over half of the world’s population.”, Tong shared.

Beyond this collaboration, XAG is also a member of the IRRI-led Direct Seeded Rice Consortium (DSRC), which promotes direct seeding methods in rice cultivation by developing technologies and training farmers to adopt sustainable farming practices.