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New Nong Khai Bypass Opens, Cutting Travel Time for Thai-Lao Trade

This image is used for representational purposes only.

On 23 April, Thailand inaugurated a 21.8-kilometer eastern bypass in Nong Khai Province, designed to alleviate traffic congestion in one of the busiest trade corridors between Thailand and Laos.

The road was built with a budget of THB 2.893 billion (USD 89 million).

Bypassing the residential areas of Nong Khai, the new road reduces travel times for trucks and travelers while easing pressure on local roads.

This bypass provides a more efficient route for vehicles traveling between Udon Thani, Nong Khai, and Bueng Kan.

Direct Impact on Trade and Logistics

Nong Khai is a key gateway for cross-border trade between Thailand and Laos, located directly across the Mekong River from Vientiane.

The new bypass aims to ease long-standing issues for Lao truck drivers and traders, who frequently experienced delays in the town center.

Thailand supplies over 97 percent of Laos’ refined fuel and remains its largest trade partner. Enhancing the road infrastructure connecting the two nations directly impacts Laos’ supply chains, fuel deliveries, and the cost of imported goods.

This road expansion is part of a broader effort to improve infrastructure and facilitate smoother trade and travel, reinforcing the vital economic ties between Laos and Thailand.

Silicon Valley Stars Gather for Dreame’s San Francisco Debut

SAN FRANCISCO, April 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dreame Technology, a global high-end technology company, confirmed the guest lineup for DREAME NEXT, the company’s largest-ever international launch event, running April 27 to 30, 2026, in San Francisco. The roster brings together figures who have shaped the trajectory of autonomous driving, personal computing, and professional sports: Sebastian Thrun, Steve Wozniak, and Dwyane Wade will all attend.

DREAME NEXT
DREAME NEXT

The breadth of expertise on the guest list reflects the reach of DREAME NEXT itself. Over four days, Dreame will stage product launches across smart mobility, smart home appliances, personal devices, and premium personal care, the first time a single event from the company has spanned its full product ecosystem. The event is organized around five themed segments: Drive Next, Living Next, Connect Next, Self Next, and Humanity Next.

Over the course of the four-day launch event, DREAME NEXT will bring together leading voices from across technology, academia, investment, and innovation to explore the next stage of industry transformation. Discussions will center on how AI-driven applications are reshaping products from the ground up, whether the age of AI requires products to be fundamentally reimagined, how intelligent technologies will redefine the foundations of manufacturing productivity, and what the next decade of human technological evolution may look like.

Featured speakers include AI pioneer Sebastian Thrun (Google X, Udacity), tech futurist Robert Scoble (Microsoft), Meta design leader Julie Zhuo, AI strategist William Fong (Microsoft), and business veteran James W. Keyes (7-Eleven, Blockbuster). The lineup also features Turing Award winner David Patterson, NASA rocket scientist Sylvia Acevedo, Stanford GSB’s Yossi Feinberg, economist Barry Eichengreen, tech journalist Rebecca A. Fannin, engineering leader Jim Chen, and Fremont Mayor Emeritus Lily Mei, alongside former Google DeepMind AI researchers and the co-founders of Robot Launch. These global leaders will share insights on AI, technology, innovation, economics, and entrepreneurship.

Demonstrating Dreame’s growing global influence, the event will also welcome standout guests from beyond the technology sector, including Apple co-founder and personal computing pioneer Steve Wozniak; and three-time NBA champion Dwyane Wade.

The guests in attendance at DREAME NEXT reflect where the company is headed; that leaders from autonomous driving, personal computing, and professional sports are all in the same room for a single company’s launch event speaks to the scale and ambition of what Dreame is building. DREAME NEXT is not just a product launch but the opening chapter of the company’s next ten years.

Dreame’s product portfolio now spans categories that, until recently, belonged to entirely separate industries. DREAME NEXT is designed to demonstrate that these categories are connected by core technologies, including high-speed motors, intelligent algorithms, and bionic robotic arms, which are now being applied across smart mobility, personal devices, home appliances, and personal care. It represents not only the next generation of products and lifestyles, but also the beginning of Dreame’s vision for the next decade.

DREAME NEXT runs April 27 to 30, 2026, in San Francisco. Media, partners, and invited guests are welcome to attend.

Please stay tuned for the latest updates from the event through the official website or the social accounts on X: @DreameGlobal, Facebook: Dreame Tech, and Instagram: @dreame_tech.

About Dreame Technology

Founded in 2017, Dreame Technology is a global high-end technology brand built on a foundation of high-speed digital motors, intelligent algorithms, and bionic robotic arms. The company’s product portfolio spans smartphones, smart vehicles, smart home appliances, intelligent cleaning appliances, outdoor smart devices, and personal care, designed to simplify daily life and give users more time for what matters. Dreame operates in more than 120 countries and regions with over 6,500 offline stores and serves more than 42 million households globally. As of December 31, 2025, the company has filed more than 10,000 patents worldwide and holds over 3,000 granted patents.

Green SM, Umoney Partner to Build Digital Finance, Mobility Ecosystem in Laos

Green SM and Umoney have teamed up to integrate digital payments for ride-hailing services in Laos, promoting cashless, eco-friendly travel.

Green SM Laos and Star Fintech Sole Co., Ltd (Umoney) have officially signed an agreement to integrate the Umoney payment system into the Green SM application, alongside a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to create a comprehensive digital finance and smart mobility ecosystem in Laos.

As part of the agreement, Umoney will be directly integrated as a payment method within the Green SM app. Both parties will introduce an App-in-App model, allowing Umoney users to access Green SM’s mobility services seamlessly within the Umoney interface.

For the first time in Laos, customers can enjoy a ride-hailing service with a fully digital, cashless payment experience. Fares will be automatically deducted from the Umoney e-wallet upon trip completion, replacing traditional manual bank transfers. Users simply need to link their Umoney account to the Green SM app for a faster and more convenient journey. Additionally, users of affiliated banking apps can also pay drivers via Umoney’s QR system, ensuring a flexible and secure transaction experience that improves customer satisfaction and expands market reach.

Under this partnership, Green SM Laos will provide a range of mobility solutions for Umoney’s corporate clients and individual users, including Green SM Car, Green SM Limo, Green SM Airport shuttle services, and customized business travel packages. In return, Umoney will collaborate with Green SM to develop digital finance and payment solutions tailored for drivers within the Green SM ecosystem. These will include e-wallets, direct earnings disbursement, operational expense payments, and cash flow management. The goal is to enhance operational efficiency while improving the overall experience for businesses, drivers, and end-users alike.

Both companies also plan to expand their digital service ecosystem by integrating Unitel and Umoney’s telecommunications and digital services into the Green SM platform. These services will include SIM card registration, mobile top-ups, data package purchases, and other digital utilities, further enhancing the value for users across both platforms.

To promote this collaboration, Green SM and Umoney will jointly launch exclusive promotional programs for Umoney customers, especially at airports, service centers, and strategic locations. By integrating services and offering eco-friendly mobility incentives, the partnership aims to foster a more civilized and environmentally friendly lifestyle while maximizing value for customers within their shared ecosystem.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Ha Chien Thang, Director of Star Fintech Sole Co., Ltd, said: “The partnership between Umoney and Green SM is about more than just adding a payment method. It’s about redefining the entire travel and financial experience. ‘Convenience’ is no longer enough – every journey must be truly seamless from start to finish. Payment is no longer a separate step but a natural part of the overall experience. This initiative is set to transform user behavior and elevate the standards of digital payments in Laos.”

Ms. Tran Hanh An, Business Director for Green SM in Vietnam and Laos, added: “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to connecting the essential infrastructures of a modern city—from digital finance and telecommunications to green mobility. We aim to benefit both customers and drivers while driving the green transition through daily commuting and consumption. This partnership not only provides a more convenient experience but also promotes a cashless society and accelerates the digital transformation of Laos’ economy.”

In addition, Green SM and Umoney will work together on multi-channel communication efforts to increase brand awareness and expand their customer base. Planned initiatives include co-branding campaigns, promotional programs for new users, digital platform communications, and service experience events in key strategic markets.

This partnership represents a significant step toward connecting two major ecosystems in Laos—green mobility and digital finance. It aims to meet the diverse needs of a modern city, drive innovation, elevate user experience, and contribute to the sustainable development of Laos’ digital economy.

5,000+ Brands Spotlight Global Trends at RX Huabo’s Shenzhen Gift Fair 2026

SHENZHEN, China, April 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — For international buyers seeking new products, reliable suppliers, and market-ready trends, organized by RX Huabo, the 34th China (Shenzhen) International Gifts, Handicrafts, Watches & Houseware Fair opens today at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, reinforcing its position as one of the Asia-Pacific region’s leading sourcing events for the gift and home sector.

This year’s show spans 300,000 square meters and brings together 4,500 exhibitors, with 250,000 professional buyers expected to attend. More than 5,000 brands are showcasing new products across eight core categories, providing overseas buyers with a centralized platform for sourcing and partnership development.

Cultural Creativity Goes Global: Heritage Meets Modern Demand

In recent years, intangible cultural heritage has emerged as a powerful vehicle for cultural storytelling on the global stage. At the fair, companies are transforming traditional crafts such as tie-dye, bamboo weaving, lacquerware, and mortise-and-tenon joinery into contemporary consumer products, from creative stationery to home décor. Brands such as Tianye Trend Toys and Xingtai Yilinfeng are embedding these elements into everyday items, driving rising global demand.

From Function to Expression: Tableware and Drinkware as Social Currency

As lifestyle aesthetics and social experiences increasingly converge, tableware and drinkware are evolving beyond utility into symbols of identity and taste. Huaguang Porcelain, frequently featured at international summits, reflects a blend of tradition and modern elegance, while drinkware innovators such as DKADI and FUGUANG are gaining traction through advanced insulation technologies and refined Chinese aesthetics. Emerging brands like Chakolab are redefining the category through modular designs that transform everyday drinkware into lifestyle accessories and social media-ready products. Through material innovation and scenario-based design, these products reflect consumers’ growing demand for individuality and emotional connection.

About RX Huabo

With over 30 years of industry experience, RX Huabo is one of the most influential exhibition organizers in the Gift & Home sector in the Asia-Pacific region and is part of RX, the global leader in events and exhibitions. It organizes 16 professional B2B exhibitions annually, bringing together over 10,000 exhibitors and 1 million products to serve 3 million buyers. Through its online platform Limaotong, the new media matrix to build an omni-channel B2B online and offline trading platform to help quality suppliers, for millions of professional buyers to provide a year-round, efficient procurement platform.

Contact: Lisa Li at lisa.li@rxhuabo.com.cn
For more information, please visit www.rxhuabo.com.cn.   

 

Bambu Indah’s Treehouses Named Among the World’s Most Spectacular by BBC Culture

UBUD, Indonesia, April 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Bambu Indah has been recognized by BBC Culture for having some of the most spectacular treehouses in the world, placing the resort among a select group of globally acclaimed nature-integrated stays. This recognition highlights Bambu Indah’s leadership in bamboo architecture and regenerative hospitality.

Surrounded by sweeping rice fields and overlooking a gentle river, the New Moon House embodies the essence of bamboo living, open, organic, and intimately connected to Bali’s timeless landscape.
Surrounded by sweeping rice fields and overlooking a gentle river, the New Moon House embodies the essence of bamboo living, open, organic, and intimately connected to Bali’s timeless landscape.

Located in Ubud’s Sayan Valley, the five-star eco-luxury resort is known for its evolving collection of bamboo structures, where treehouses are designed as immersive living spaces within the jungle. Developed with Ibuku Design Studio, these structures push the boundaries of organic design and environmental integration.

Founded in 2005 by John Hardy and Cynthia Hardy, the visioners behind Green School Bali and Green Village Bali, and the globally recognized John Hardy, Bambu Indah began with eleven restored Javanese bridal homes and has grown into a regenerative estate. It is also recognized among Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places and described by Tripadvisor as “one of a kind.”

Beyond architecture, Bambu Indah functions as a living lab where regenerative living is practiced daily. Guests engage with nature through natural spring-fed pools, a forest wood-fired sauna, a copper hot tub, and jungle-set cold plunge pools. Daily activities include cow bathing, rice harvesting, coconut tree planting, and guided trash walks, encouraging connection to land and ecological awareness.

Culinary concepts reinforce this system. Tembaga focuses on longevity-driven farm-to-table cuisine, while River Warung presents traditional Balinese dishes through an Ibu-ibu station using wood-fired cooking. The Sunset Bar overlooks the Ayung River and surrounding farmland, offering sunset views shaped by nature.

Community initiatives include natural pest control using Tyto alba, reducing chemical use in nearby rice fields while supporting local farmers. Future developments including Bali’s largest fermentation lab, a mushroom cave, and a tea house aim to strengthen food resilience, biodiversity, and local collaboration.

As its treehouses gain global recognition, Bambu Indah continues to evolve demonstrating how architecture, nature, and daily life can converge into a regenerative future.

For more information, visit www.bambuindah.com

Media Contact

Citra Suriah
Corporate Director of Marketing
Bambu Indah, Green Village Bali and The Kul Kul Farm
M: +62 821 126 95 124  E: directorofmarketing@bambuindah.com 

At Bambu Indah, adventure unfolds in its purest form, raw nature, untouched beauty, and immersive experiences that celebrate the spirit of the land.
At Bambu Indah, adventure unfolds in its purest form, raw nature, untouched beauty, and immersive experiences that celebrate the spirit of the land.

Nestled within a lush forest setting, the Crystal Pool at Bambu Indah offers a serene wellness experience where natural spring water and tranquil surroundings invite deep restoration and connection with nature.
Nestled within a lush forest setting, the Crystal Pool at Bambu Indah offers a serene wellness experience where natural spring water and tranquil surroundings invite deep restoration and connection with nature.

Perched above the jungle canopy, Bambu Indah’s iconic Tree House has been named one of the most spectacular tree houses in the world by BBC Travel, an immersive retreat where architecture and nature exist in perfect harmony.
Perched above the jungle canopy, Bambu Indah’s iconic Tree House has been named one of the most spectacular tree houses in the world by BBC Travel, an immersive retreat where architecture and nature exist in perfect harmony.

Dreame will unveil its latest wet dry vacuum innovations in Silicon Valley, building on rapid growth across the world

SAN FRANCISCO, April 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As part of DREAME NEXT, Dreame’s upcoming Silicon Valley launch event, Dreame wet dry vacuum will take center stage on April 28 (PT) with its latest product and technology reveal. The showcase will highlight the brand’s newest advances in steam cleaning, intelligent floor care, and all-in-one cleaning performance for modern households, signaling Dreame’s next step in the evolution of floor care innovation.

Dreame Wet Dry Vacuum Product Launch Special Guest
Dreame Wet Dry Vacuum Product Launch Special Guest

At the launch, Dreame will introduce two premium wet dry vacuums, Aero Ultra Steam and Aero Pro Steam, further expanding the role of High-Temp Hygienic Steam cleaning in the home. Built around Dreame’s latest industry-leading Tri-Force Cleaning Solution, which combines steam, hot water, and foam, the new lineup is designed to deliver stronger stain removal, deeper hygiene performance, and a more advanced all-around cleaning experience. With up to 30,000Pa suction power and an ultra-slim 3.88-inch body, the products are built to combine powerful cleaning efficiency with lightweight maneuverability and broader coverage across complex home environments. The event will also preview Dreame’s latest proprietary innovations, including the EdgeHunter™ Mopping System and AirHydro Separation™ Tech, offering a glimpse into the next generation of floor care innovation.

Besides the product reveal, a legendary basketball icon is expected to join the launch for a live on-stage exchange and a firsthand product experience. From April 27-30, DREAME NEXT will also bring together leading scientists, founders, international stars, and investors for conversations on emerging technologies, industry trends, and the future of lifestyle innovation.

Dreame’s momentum is already strong in the market. In North America, Dreame wet dry vacuum has sustained growth of over 100% for 16 consecutive months. Aero Pro, unveiled at CES 2026, quickly rose to the top of Amazon’s Best Seller rankings and multiple e-commerce sales charts, while on TikTok it has held over 70% market share for six consecutive months.

Today, Dreame wet dry vacuum ranks No. 1 in market share in nearly 20 countries, being trusted by over 42 million households worldwide, and the brand has earned major recognitions, including Gold at the New York Product Design Awards, the CES 2026 Innovation Award, and the AWE Gold Award, etc. As a leader in Instant Deep Cleaning, Dreame wet dry vacuum strives to keep leading the industry with more cutting-edge innovations.

“Strengthening Foundations, Moving Forward Steadily”: The 28th National Chinese Life Insurance Congress & 2026 IDA DAY Welcomes Over 2,800 Professionals to Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In an era of persistent global economic turbulence and accelerated industry transformation, the insurance sector is evolving beyond its traditional risk mitigation function toward comprehensive financial planning and long-term value creation. Rising medical inflation, aging populations, and the compounding risks emerging from the post-pandemic landscape have intensified market demand for professional expertise and trust-based advisory relationships. Consequently, life insurance practitioners are redefining their roles—from product-centered agents to strategic partners who guide clients through lifelong financial journeys.

Opening Ceremony of The 28th National Chinese Life Insurance Congress 2026 IDA DAY
Opening Ceremony of The 28th National Chinese Life Insurance Congress 2026 IDA DAY

Against this backdrop, the 28th National Chinese Life Insurance Congress, themed “Strengthening Foundations, Moving Forward Steadily,” will convene from April 24 to 26, 2026, at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Congress has drawn more than 2,800 industry professionals, reaffirming its standing as a premier platform for knowledge exchange and professional development, directly addressing the sector’s core imperatives of long-term resilience and ethical stewardship.

Responding to Industry Shifts by Returning to Core Competencies

This year’s theme not only acknowledges prevailing uncertainties but further underscores a foundational conviction: amid a rapidly shifting landscape, only those who build robust professional foundations and embrace a long-term mindset can consistently drive lasting value and impact.

From risk diagnosis and financial planning to sustained client relationship management, the life insurance advisor’s role is being fundamentally reshaped. The industry’s priority is shifting from short-term performance to the cultivation of trust, expertise and enduring client partnerships.

Three Prestigious Awards Honoring 356 Professionals Across Career Milestones

The Congress will recognize 356 outstanding practitioners at various stages of their careers, including 17 Top Manager Award recipients, 320 National Advisers Award (Golden Crown) recipients, and 19 Junior Advisers Award recipients. Consistently achieving such honors amid a volatile environment reflects not only individual capability but also sustained commitment to professional excellence and client service.

Now in its 24th year, the National Advisers Award (Golden Crown) has long championed the continuous development of life insurance financial advisors. By valuing consistent, real-world performance, the award embodies three core principles: serving every client with Genuine Care, confronting long-term practice challenges with Perseverance, and deepening Professional Expertise along the way.

More than a trophy, it serves as a guiding compass—enabling practitioners to develop their own rhythm and methodology through steady, self-driven improvement.

Viewed holistically, these awards form a clear and actionable growth pathway: the Junior Advisers Award (available only during an agent’s first 18 months) builds foundational knowledge and disciplined work habits; the National Advisers Award (Golden Crown) signals stabilized professional competence and service quality; and ultimately, the International Dragon Award (IDA) represents the pinnacle of global recognition.

Within this ecosystem, the National Advisers Award (Golden Crown) plays a pivotal bridging role—not only as a milestone of achievement but also as an integral driver of the Congress’s mission to elevate professional standards.

43 Years of Legacy: A Platform Fostering Expertise and Uniting Professionals 

Since its founding in 1983, the organizer—IMM International—has remained steadfast in its mission to elevate the professionalism, image, and social standing of global Chinese-speaking insurance practitioners. Through international congresses, professional publications, honor systems, and training programs, IMM International continues to unite the worldwide Chinese insurance community.

The National Chinese Life Insurance Congress, as a long-standing exchange platform, fulfills an enduring role. Through annual accumulation and refinement, it distills professional discourse and practical experience into actionable insights—providing practitioners with proven reference points for their own career journeys.

 

HoSkar Night Bangkok 2026: Asia’s Premier Real Estate & Hospitality Networking & Seminar Event Returns on 21 May

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Southeast Asia’s real estate and hospitality sectors face increasing pressure, despite the tremendous growth in recent years, the current environment is beginning to challenge hotel and resort occupancy levels and room rates. In response, property owners and operators are required to adapt, refining their strategies and evolving their business models. Several key industry experts, General Managers and owners will once again gather in Bangkok at HoSkar Night Bangkok 2026 taking place on 21 May at Dusit Thani Bangkok, to discuss current and future market conditions.

The event will bring together a curated community of developers, hotel owners, operators, and designers from across the region for an evening that combines strategic insight with high-impact networking.

Organized by WeHub, HoSkar Night is one of the region’s most vibrant networking platforms in hospitality and real estate, bringing together influential industry leaders through curated seminars and networking. Designed to foster meaningful dialogue and long-term collaborations, HoSkar Night has become a dynamic forum shaping the future of the industry across Asia.

Mr. Mauro Gasparotti speaking at Developers & Owners Summit - HoSkar Night Bangkok 2025. Source: WeHub
Mr. Mauro Gasparotti speaking at Developers & Owners Summit – HoSkar Night Bangkok 2025. Source: WeHub

Developers & Owners Summit: Experiential Hospitality in Focus

This year’s program introduces the Developers & Owners Summit, centered on the theme of”Experiential Hospitality, What is going on out there?”- reflecting the industry’s shift toward experience-driven development and operations.

Featuring leading voices from Savills Hotels, STR CoStar, Kora Beach Resort Phuket, KROMO Bangkok – Curio Collection By Hilton, ASAI Hotels, The Standard Hua Hin, The Langham – Custom House Bangkok, Dusit Thani Bangkok, and InterContinental Khao Yai, the summit will provide insights into global, regional, and local market dynamics. It will also explore how technology and innovation are reshaping end-to-end guest experiences, alongside real-world strategies and behind-the-scenes perspectives from leading hotel operators on delivering differentiated and memorable guest journeys.

HoSkar Night Networking Session 

Following the seminar, attendees will be invited to an evening networking session. Designed to encourage meaningful dialogue and facilitate valuable business connections, HoSkar Night offers an intimate and sophisticated setting for industry peers to engage, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations.

Participation and Registration

Due to limited capacity, we will be implementing a “First-register, first-served” policy, with priority given to selected categories. Entry is exclusively granted with the confirmation email from the WeHub Team. Inquire now to join the HoSkar Night in Bangkok on 21 May: https://hoskarnight.com/registration-bangkok/ 

Strategic Partners and Supporters

HoSkar Night Bangkok 2026 is co-hosted with SALTO and supported by a distinguished network of partners, including Technal, Kohler, Dusit Hotels & Resorts, Zennio and Savills Hotels.

Regional Event Series 2026

Following Bangkok, HoSkar Night will continue its Asia-Pacific series in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Manila. Click here for the full calendar.

For press inquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact: host@wehubyou.com

Vision Asia Pacific is a registered company which owns WeHub and organizes multiple event series, including the MTE conference and the HoSkar Night networking event, serving the real estate and hospitality industries across Asia.

PR Newswire is the Official Media Partner of HoSkar Night Bangkok 2026.

Thi Cao
thi@wehubyou.com
+84-0936501230