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VinFast Advances Ecosystem Strategy in Philippines’ EV Catch-Up


MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 July 2025 – With nearly 19,000 electric vehicles sold in 2024, the Philippines is looking to catch up in Southeast Asia’s EV race as ecosystem players like VinFast work to overcome hurdles around charging access, maintenance, and affordability.

VinFast EV manufacturing complex in Hai Phong, Vietnam
VinFast EV manufacturing complex in Hai Phong, Vietnam

Emerging Asia’s electric vehicle market reached nearly 400,000 sales in 2024[1], but the gains were spread unevenly across the region.

In Southeast Asia, Vietnam led the way with nearly 90,000 electric cars sold, accounting for 17.6 percent of the country’s car market.[2] Thailand followed closely with just over 70,000 new EVs, accounting for 13 percent of all car sales[3]. Indonesia recorded 49,200 EVs, representing over 7 percent of national sales.[4]

The Philippines lags behind. Fewer than 19,000 electrified vehicles were sold in 2024, making up only around 4 percent of new car purchases.[5]

Can the Philippines draft a catch-up strategy in Southeast Asia’s EV sprint? The short answer is yes, but it needs to work closely with all stakeholders, especially OEMs like VinFast, which is bringing a comprehensive ecosystem designed to address the major concerns of potential EV buyers.

The ASEAN EV Race

Regional competitors are deploying aggressive strategies to dominate the electric transition. Thailand offers big multi-year tax holidays and targets 30 percent domestic EV production by 2030. Indonesia leverages its world-leading nickel reserves to attract battery manufacturers. Vietnam is using homegrown VinFast as a launchpad into export markets.

Manila isn’t standing still either, as the 2022 Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) lays out a roadmap for EV adoption that includes reduced import tariffs, EV-only parking slots, and a requirement for 5 percent of large fleets to be electric. However, the policy offers few supply-side incentives, and so while EV sales have picked up in recent years, they still account for only a single-digit share of total car sales.

The country’s oil dependency adds pressure. MUFG estimates that a 10-dollar increase per barrel in crude oil would widen the Philippines’ current-account deficit from roughly 3.5 percent to over 4.5 percent of GDP.[6] That is a full percentage-point increase, largely driven by fuel imports.

The Philippines pledged to trim greenhouse-gas emissions by up to 75% by 2030 under the Paris Agreement. And EV is a big part of this[7]. But electrifying transportation means consumers need more affordable, serviceable zero-emission options. More than that, the government needs partners who can support the full ecosystem, including infrastructure, services, and education, not just the vehicles themselves.

VinFast’s Whole-of-Ecosystem Approach

VinFast vehicles are already on Philippine roads. In July 2024, the company opened its first three showrooms. Almost a year later, the OEM became a full member of CAMPI, giving it a seat at the local policy table alongside other traditional automotive brands.

What’s notable about VinFast’s approach is its effort to build a comprehensive “For a Green Future” ecosystem. The company has partnered with local dealers to open more than 60 new showrooms by the end of the year. Collaborations with tire and maintenance chains like Goodyear and Tire King will extend after-sales service coverage, aiming for over 100 authorized service workshops across the Philippines by 2025. This tackles the “who fixes my EV, and where?” anxiety head-on.

VinFast has also launched a free charging program alongside the debut of its VF 6 subcompact model. This initiative allows customers to charge for free at its dedicated network until May 1, 2027. The network, operated by V-GREEN, aims to roll out 15,000 charging ports across the country in 2025.

VinFast’s strategy targets three major EV adoption barriers all at once. It eases range anxiety through accessible charging, tackles maintenance fears with a broad service network, and addresses upfront cost concerns through policies such as a buyback program that offers up to 90 percent of the vehicle’s original value.

Even without building a local factory, VinFast’s ecosystem creates jobs in sales, repairs, software, and charging infrastructure. This supports Manila’s EVIDA goals, helps reduce urban pollution, and contributes to lowering oil dependence.

Another hidden challenge to EV adoption and one VinFast aims to solve is lack of familiarity, which, according to some studies, is actually the largest barrier. One American study found that once drivers experience EVs firsthand, concerns about range, costs, and charging drop significantly[8].

To help bridge that gap, VinFast is working with various B2B partners and mobility service providers that are helping make electric vehicles more visible and accessible in everyday life, including Green GSM, the Philippines’ first all-electric taxi service, which recently launched on June 10, 2025.

By interacting with Green GSM drivers, all of whom operate VinFast vehicles, everyday commuters are given a practical and low-barrier introduction to EVs. These conversations can help the public understand how EVs work, what they feel like to drive one, and why they might be worth considering. Eventually, that exposure could encourage more people to make the switch.

In Southeast Asia’s e-mobility race, the Philippines may lack a domestic factory. Still, VinFast’s ecosystem-focused approach gives the country a real opportunity to catch up and perhaps even pull ahead.

Hashtag: #VinFast

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

Datumstruct Enhances Singapore Experience Centre for Command Centre Technology


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 July 2025 – Datumstruct, a provider of critical facilities solutions across Asia, has announced the revamp of its Singapore experience centre (XC 2.0), located at 33 Changi South Ave 2, 486445 Singapore.

Datumstruct Enhances Singapore Experience Centre for Command Centre Technology

The updated facility is set to open by late September or early October 2025, offering a comprehensive and hands-on showcase of the company’s integrated capabilities across Ergonomic Console Desking (Redecon), Control Centre Design & Build (CCDB), and Control Centre Technology Integration (CCTI).


Integrated Showcase of Critical Facility Solutions

Spanning 170 square metres, the Singapore experience centre will feature operational demonstrations of technologies typically deployed in command and control centre environments.

Key components include a working control room video wall setup and product simulations that highlight the importance of ergonomics, particularly in 24/7 operational settings. Visitors will be able to explore the functionality of an ergonomic height-adjustable desk and other modular systems in real time.

The experience centre will focus on three core areas of Datumstruct’s business: desking systems, command centre infrastructure, and integrated control room technology. All elements are designed to give end-users, partners, and consultants direct exposure to the full scope of solutions supporting modern security control rooms and mission-critical environments.

By Appointment: Purpose-Built for Decision-Makers

The revamped Singapore experience centre will be accessible by appointment only and is designed for professionals involved in planning, operating, or upgrading command centre environments. This includes engineers, project consultants, and end-users across various sectors, such as transportation, security, energy, and government. Visitors will be able to interact directly with key features, including a working simulation of a control room environment. This environment features an LED video wall, an AV Over IP controller with its video wall management solution, and environment control integration.

“The experience centre allows us to engage clients in a practical setting and listen to feedback from the ground,” said a representative from Datumstruct. “This direct engagement helps us deliver solutions that go beyond customer expectations.”

Strategic Investment in Technology Demonstration

First established in January 2021, the experience centre has been updated to reflect the latest industry standards and technology applications. It remains the largest and most up-to-date command centre experience facility in Singapore. The company plans to continue expanding this concept regionally, with XC 2.0 slated for completion by the end of 2025.

Datumstruct views the experience centre as a strategic asset in Singapore, aligning with its ongoing efforts as a trendsetter in control centre design and innovation. The revamp underscores the company’s continued commitment to advancing the planning, construction, and operation of critical facilities across Asia. For more updates on the experience centre and related initiatives, visit www.datumstruct-cfs.com.

Hashtag: #Datumstruct

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

About Datumstruct

Established in 1999, Datumstruct is a trusted market leader in critical facilities, specialising in Ergonomic Console Desking (Redecon), Control Centre Design & Build (CCDB), and Control Centre Technology Integration (CCTI). The company provides end-to-end solutions for command and control environments, enabling clients to enhance productivity and achieve operational excellence.

Datumstruct is headquartered in Singapore and is ISO 9001 certified. It maintains a strong regional presence through offices in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Myanmar, China, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

Meey Group Hosts the ‘Proptech Capitalization Strategy Forum: Born in Vietnam – Build for the World’

Affirming Its Pioneering Role in Realising Vietnam’s National Digital Asset Policy

  • Over 20 investment fund leaders and 20 top companies in attendance.
  • Featuring partner ARC and senior Nasdaq representatives.
  • Deep-dive sessions on capitalisation solutions and IPO roadmap for Vietnamese enterprises.
  • Official signing of a comprehensive strategic cooperation between Meey Group and ARC

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 July 2025 – Meey Group, Vietnam’s leading property technology company, organises ‘Proptech Capitalization Strategy Forum: Born in Vietnam, Build for the World’ at the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. This event is not only expected to open a new chapter for Vietnam’s tech enterprises aiming for global IPOs but also considered as a strategic touchpoint between international capital markets and the domestic tech ecosystem, in alignment with the national digital transformation strategy.

The ceremony for official signing of a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement between Meey Group and ARC Group, July 14, 2025. Photo: Meey Group.
The ceremony for official signing of a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement between Meey Group and ARC Group, July 14, 2025. Photo: Meey Group.

To concretise of Vietnam’s National Digital Transformation Programme approved by the Prime Minister in Decision No. 749/QĐ-TTg dated June 3, 2020 and gradually build a legal corridor for digital assets according to Decision No. 1255/QĐ-TTg, the role of pioneering tech enterprises is more critical than ever. Particularly in real estate, a sector contributing for a large proportion of the economy, digitalisation and asset tokenisation are seen as vital tools to unlock capital flows, increase transparency and attract high-quality investment.

Leading the trend and in harmony with national direction, Meey Group initiates this event to connect its digital asset technology platform with the global capital market, offering a scalable model for other Vietnamese tech firms. The event is expected to not only accelerate market upgrades and real estate recovery but also pave the way for Vietnam’s tech enterprises to step confidently onto the world stage.

Speaking about the upcoming event, Hoàng Mai Chung, Chairman of Meey Group, said: “Our mission goes beyond building a successful tech enterprise, we aspire to contribute to the nation’s development in general. This forum is our effort to create a strategic ‘touchpoint’ between international capital and Vietnam’s tech ecosystem.

“By bringing in the best of global standards, experience and investment, we contribute to uplift our economy’s competitiveness, promote transparency, and open a new chapter for the Vietnamese tech brand on the global map.”

Expect to bring solutions, anticipate trends

More than a traditional corporate gathering, the ‘Proptech Capitalization Strategy Forum’ organized by Meey Group is designed as a high-level, multidimensional dialogue platform.

Amidst the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution that is reshaping all industries and the Government of Vietnam’s strong commitment to promoting national digital transformation, the ‘Proptech Capitalization Strategy Forum’ provides businesses with opportunities to anticipate capital flow shifts towards technology companies with solid foundations and global vision.

In-depth panel discussions is facilitated by senior experts from the US stock exchange Nasdaq and global financial advisory firm ARC Group. Playing key roles in guiding technology capital markets and providing professional IPO advisory services, these two partners will directly analyse the challenges and share success formulas for Vietnamese proptech enterprises on their international listing journey.

The agenda goes beyond finance, diving deep into essential topics such as corporate governance, transparency and ESG standards – factors increasingly valued by global institutional investors. Notably, the sessions explore how capital strategy aligns with digital asset transformation – a core competitive advantage aligned with the national digital economy orientation and helps Vietnamese enterprises achieve higher valuations in international markets.

Gathering 20 Potential tech companies: advancing the ecosystem together

What sets this forum apart is Meey Group’s initiative in building a shared playground. By convening 20 top Vietnamese tech companies with IPO aspirations, Meey Group affirms its leadership not only through its own journey but also through its commitment to elevating the entire Vietnamese tech ecosystem.

This embodies the spirit of ‘Born in Vietnam’ – where the success of one enterprise becomes an inspiration and a lesson for the whole community. The direct networking session between these companies and international investment experts will unlock new possibilities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and an important preparation step for the next generation of tech enterprise.

Strategic cooperation official signing ceremony: concretise a well-planned voyage

A highlight of the forum is the official signing of a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement between Meey Group and ARC Group. Far from being the starting point, the event in Hanoi marks a critical milestone in a well-planned journey. While the March 2025 signing in Shanghai laid the foundation on global cooperation, this forum puts concrete strategies into motion through discussions and activate connections.

The structured, phased approach demonstrates Meey Group’s long-term vision and commitment to global market integration, reinforcing trust among investors and international partners.

Panel discussion between Nasdaq representatives and Meey Group: future orientation and IPO opportunities held the same afternoon at Meey Group’s headquarters

Meey Group was honoured to host a special panel discussion with the participation of Nasdaq representative Hiren Krishnani, Investor relations and IPO director, at the group’s headquarters. The discussion focused on strategic topics regarding IPOs, post-listing corporate governance, and opportunities for ASEAN enterprises in accessing international capital markets.

The panel discussion provided deep insights into the IPO process, development trends in global financial markets, and solutions to support enterprises in building and developing effective Investor Relations (IR) programs after listing. In particular, Hiren Krishnani shared experiences from advising over 50 successful IPOs, including major transactions such as the Grab” SPAC Combo and VinFast SPAC Combo, helping ASEAN enterprises better understand how to leverage opportunities from Nasdaq.

Hiren Krishnani said: “Nasdaq always accompanies companies in the ASEAN region to bring them to the world, opening up new opportunities in international capital markets. Particularly, with thorough preparation and the right strategy, enterprises can succeed after listing and increase sustainable value.”

The panel discussion was a valuable event for Vietnamese enterprises, especially Meey Group, to exchange and learn effective strategies for participating in international stock markets, while expanding relationships with potential investors from around the world.

Meey Group: actively accompanying and actualising the national digital assets policy

As real estate continues to be a cornerstone of Vietnam’s economy, estimated to contribute nearly 12 per cent to national GDP. The Government’s issuance of Decision No. 1255/QĐ-TTg – approving the ‘Scheme of completion of the legal framework on management of virtual assets, digital currencies and virtual currencies’ is regarded as a strategic move with the potential to reshape the future of the industry. In this context, the role of pioneering tech enterprises like Meey Group becomes especially critical.

Meey Group stands as the sole technology conglomerate in Vietnam to pioneer the development of a comprehensive proptech-fintech ecosystem – one that spans the entire value chain of the real estate industry: from data and management to transactions and investment.

To achieve this, over the years, Meey Group has gone far beyond building standalone technology platforms. With an ecosystem of 26 integrated products, Meey has undertaken a much greater mission: to standardise, verify, and structure data for the real estate market.

Through this ecosystem, millions of fragmented, unreliable data points on zoning plans, legal documentation, pricing, and more have been transformed into valuable digital assets that are traceable and verifiable. In doing so, Meey Group is not merely operating on the surface of information, but it is quietly building a massive and trusted digital asset ‘repositories’ for Vietnam’s real estate market.

Furthermore, Meey Group understands that digital assets can only reach their full potential in an environment where value can be unlocked and circulated. That is why the enterprise has established Meey Network, a trusted community platform where digital assets can be transparently connected and traded. Additionally, Meey Finance, a specialised fintech platform, provides the essential tools to ‘capitalise’ and unlock liquidity, transforming data value into real financial value.

These are the crucial elements that enable Meey Group to create an essential ‘digital infrastructure’, in alignment with the Government’s orientation. When the legal framework for digital assets is issued, Meey Group will already be positioned at the forefront with a proven technology platform and data repository.

A digital asset, regardless of its intrinsic value, needs market acceptance and a ‘set of standards’ for proper valuation and capitalization. The ‘Proptech Capitalization Strategy Forum’ organised by Meey Group aims to be the strategic “touchpoint” to address this need.

With the participation of global financial institutions like ARC and strategic consultation from Nasdaq, the forum provides more than just access to capital; it delivers an international ‘set of standards’ and a ‘gateway’ to global financial markets. Meey Group’s proactive, forward-thinking, and policy-aligned approach not only demonstrates the strategic vision of the enterprise but also serves as a valuable reference model on how private enterprises can contribute to and realize the country’s digital economic development goals.

For Media Inquiries:
Meey Group Joint Stock Company
Tel: +84 249 999 2999
Email: truyenthong@meeyland.com
Website: https://meeygroup.com/

Hashtag: #MeeyGroup

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

Shenzhen hosts first promotion event for 2025 Global AI Machines and Electronics Expo


SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – The inaugural promotion event for the 2025 Global Artificial Intelligence Machines and Electronics Expo (AIE) was held in Shenzhen, a thriving innovation hub in South China, on Thursday.

Shenzhen hosts first promotion event for 2025 Global AI Machines and Electronics Expo
Shenzhen hosts first promotion event for 2025 Global AI Machines and Electronics Expo

Over 100 representatives from government, industry, and international trade associations attended the event.

The event introduced AIE to key enterprises in Shenzhen and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, unveiling significant support policies for exhibitors and fostering collaboration opportunities.

Themed “Bay Area Intelligent Manufacturing, Global Sharing,” AIE matches the world’s top three branded exhibitions. It will showcase cutting-edge technologies, debut innovative products, and host global think tank experts and entrepreneurs to discuss future trends.

Sun Bin, deputy director of the Guangdong Provincial Department of Commerce, emphasized the challenges Chinese enterprises face in overseas exhibitions due to complex global dynamics. He highlighted the urgent need for market expansion and order acquisition, noting AIE’s timely launch.

Sun announced substantial subsidies — industry giants can receive up to 1,000 square meters of booth space (2.3 million yuan), and other leading firms up to 500 square meters (1.15 million yuan).

Liu Ying, secretary-general of AIE organizing committee, provided a detailed overview of the expo. The AIE reflects the rise of China’s high-end manufacturing and the Greater Bay Area’s global tech prominence, with its innovation index ranking second worldwide for five consecutive years.

Chai Zhengmao, director of Shenzhen’s Exhibition Industry Management Office, said the city will provide full support for local enterprises participating in the AIE.

Shenzhen will collaborate with organizers to arrange production base tours and supply-demand matching activities, Chai added, urging enterprises to maximize their respective participation outcomes.

During interactive discussions, the enterprise and trade association representatives expressed strong enthusiasm. They raised questions on buyer invitation precision, visa facilitation, exhibit customs clearance, booth application details, association involvement, and promotional coordination.

Xie Jianhua, president of the U.S.-China E-Commerce Trade Association, praised the AIE as an opportunity for Chinese firms to build an independent global platform, addressing pain points in overseas exhibitions. Representatives from Baypin Group, Foxconn, Sunwoda, Konka, and industry associations voiced their intent to participate in the AIE.

For logistics, exhibitors with AIE credentials will enjoy 24-hour smooth border access between Macao and Zhuhai, supported by frequent shuttle bus services, said Liu Ying.

Sun Bin reaffirmed Guangdong’s commitment to supporting the AIE by providing optimal services and addressing practical issues, such as visa facilitation.

The promotion event marks a key milestone in AIE’s preparations. Supported by government, industry associations, and enterprises, the AIE is poised to become a world-class technology expo rooted in the Greater Bay Area with global reach.

Scheduled for December 4-6 this year in Macao and Zhuhai, the AIE will feature six themed pavilions, including Intelligent Communication and IoT and Intelligent Equipment and Industrial Internet, spanning 70,000 square meters with approximately 1,000 exhibitors.

Hashtag: #AIE #ChinaElectronicsChamberofCommerce

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

Japan’s Quake Swarm Shakes Lao Students into Preparedness

(REPRESENTATIVE PHOTO) A man walks by as police (behind) work through the ruins of a popular tourist area which was destroyed by fire in the disaster-hit city of Wajima, Ishikawa prefecture on January 12, 2024, after a major 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Noto region in Ishikawa prefecture on New Year's Day. (Photo by JIJI PRESS / AFP)

As powerful earthquakes rattle Japan’s southern Tokara Islands, Lao students living in the country are confronting the reality of natural disasters in ways they never experienced back home.

Cushman & Wakefield Takes Gold, Silver and Bronze Prizes at Phoenix Tree Marketing Awards 2025


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – Cushman & Wakefield, a leading global real estate services firm, has won the Gold Prize in the Integrated Marketing category at the 11th Phoenix Tree Digital Marketing Summit 2025 and Awards Ceremony for the firm’s Better Never Settles brand campaign. The firm also won the Silver Prize in the ESG Marketing category for its Earth Day campaign; and the Bronze Prize in the Video Marketing category for its Better Never Settles video series.

Cushman & Wakefield launched the Better Never Settles brand campaign in Greater China in June 2024. The firm conducted marketing activities both internally and externally through a range of channels including online social platforms and offline in-person events, significantly enhancing brand impact, demonstrating a market-leading position and marking an important milestone for the branding campaign globally.

Cushman & Wakefield Greater China launched a one-month Earth Day — Planet vs Plastics campaign, running from April 22 to May 22, in conjunction with Bottloop, a pioneer in recycling and environmental conservation. Staff across more than 20 offices actively engaged in the campaign, which was widely featured through a range of channels including WeChat, Weibo and leading media outlets, achieving more than 90,000 views and demonstrating a successful ESG marketing initiative.

The firm’s Better Never Settles video series has been one of the most notable Better Never Settles campaign elements. The short-format video series showcased four team members from different markets and different business units sharing their stories on how they bring “Better never settles” into their lives when they engage in sports, arts, career development and in their personal lives. The video series reached over 140,000 views, generating significant buzz in the industry and reinforcing the firm’s strong branding.

KK Chiu, Chief Executive, Greater China, Cushman & Wakefield, said, “We are honored to receive such high recognition for our excellent performance at the 11th Phoenix Tree Marketing Awards. This achievement reflects the trust and respect from our clients, media and the real estate community, and marks an important milestone in the growth of our marketing capabilities across Greater China. We will continue to deliver innovative and integrated marketing initiatives to strengthen our brand positioning and elevate our industry presence because at Cushman & Wakefield, better never settles.”

Founded in 2015 at the inaugural WMMS Global Mobile Marketing Summit, the Phoenix Tree Awards form part of the industry’s premier recognition for mobile marketing excellence. Judged by an independent panel of senior experts, the awards evaluate criteria including innovation, strategy, execution and impact, celebrating companies that set new standards in brand marketing. Over the years, they have evolved into a symbol of professionalism and prestige, renowned for honoring high-quality case studies that drive industry advancement.

Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield

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

About Cushman & Wakefield

Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In Greater China, a network of 23 offices serves local markets across the region. In 2024, the firm reported revenue of $9.4 billion across its core services of Valuation, Consulting, Project & Development Services, Capital Markets, Project & Occupier Services, Industrial & Logistics, Retail, and others. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit or follow us on LinkedIn ().

Tripartite Cooperation Accelerates: Promoting Logistics and Tourism along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway

Press Conference on Logistics and Tourism Promotion Along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway. Khon Kaen, Thailand. 14 July 2025. (Photo credit: Mekong Institute)

A press conference convened in Thailand’s Khon Kaen on 14 July to promote the forthcoming Logistics and Tourism Promotion Meeting along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway, scheduled for 19 August at the Mekong Institute.

A press conference was held in Thailand’s Khon Kaen on 14 July to promote the upcoming Logistics and Tourism Promotion Meeting along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway, scheduled for 19 August at the Mekong Institute.

The initiative is a joint collaboration between the Mekong Institute, the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Khon Kaen, and the Foreign Affairs Office of Yunnan Provincial People’s Government, PRC. The goal is to demonstrate a shared vision of using infrastructure and connectivity to foster inclusive development, economic integration, and people-to-people cooperation between China, Laos, and Thailand.

Yang Ning, Deputy Consul General of China in Khon Kaen during the Press Conference on Logistics and Tourism Promotion Along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway. Khon Kaen, Thailand. 14 July 2025. (Photo credit: Mekong Institute)

In her opening speech, Yang Ning, Deputy Consul General of China in Khon Kaen, emphasized the transformative potential of the railway.

“Today’s press conference marks not only the commencement of the campaign but also the continuation of our shared vision. The China-Laos-Thailand railway stands as a symbol of international friendship and sustainable development.”

She noted the railway’s role in boosting cross-border trade and tourism while strengthening ties among the people of the three nations. She also highlighted initiatives like the Top 10 Destinations campaign as opportunities to unlock new prospects for local communities, businesses, and the tourism sector.

“China remains committed to supporting regional integration through practical cooperation toward shared prosperity.”

Suriyan Vichitlekarn, Executive Director of the Mekong Institute, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the railway represents more than a physical route but serves as a strategic pathway for regional economic recovery and resilience.

“This is more than a transportation corridor, it’s a platform for sustainable logistics, tourism, and inclusive growth,” he said, introducing the objectives of the 19 August meeting.

Suriyan Vichitlekarn, Executive Director of the Mekong Institute during the Press Conference on Logistics and Tourism Promotion Along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway. Khon Kaen, Thailand. 14 July 2025. (Photo credit: Mekong Institute)

A key highlight of the press conference was the announcement of the “Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Northeastern Thailand” campaign, which runs from 18 July to 8 August. The public is invited to vote via the Mekong Institute’s official Facebook page to select outstanding, rail-accessible destinations in Isaan. Participants can also share their opinions and sentiments about their favorite places for a chance to win travel vouchers worth up to THB 5,000 (approximately USD 154.30), with winners announced at the August conference.

Suriyan explained that the campaign seeks to promote each area’s local tourism assets, celebrate cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and community-based experiences.

“This is an opportunity to showcase the richness of Isaan and to involve both tourists and locals in shaping narratives along the railway corridor.”

The press conference was attended by over 40 participants, both onsite and online. It featured Q&A sessions, media interviews, and networking opportunities. Beyond media attention, the event aims to broaden the regional impact of this cooperation framework.

Press Conference on Logistics and Tourism Promotion Along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway. Khon Kaen, Thailand. 14 July 2025. (Photo credit: Mekong Institute)

The Logistics and Tourism Promotion along the China–Laos–Thailand Railway will be held on 19 August in Khon Kaen, featuring a comprehensive range of activities including plenary talks, breakout discussions, exhibitions, and business matching sessions. The conference will convene key stakeholders, policymakers, industry experts, business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and development partners interested in advancing the railway corridor’s potential.

Vientiane’s BRT Project Reaches Over 80% Completion

Vientiane’s BRT Project Reaches Over 80% Completion
Minister of Public Works and Transport Leklay Sivilay and other senior officials sit inside the BRT (photo credit: HupSub Music & Traders)

Vientiane’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project has now reached 81.5 percent completion as of early June, with construction teams focusing on final-phase upgrades to traffic systems, sidewalks, and roadside parking areas.