Vientiane’s latest cybercrime crackdown hits six locations, with 63 people arrested and thousands of devices seized. Vientiane Capital, Laos. 01 August 2026. (Photo: Lao Security News)
On 1 August, Vientiane authorities arrested 63 people on suspicion of involvement in an alleged telecommunications fraud network during coordinated raids across six locations in Sikhottabong and Hatsayfong districts.
The suspects included 57 Chinese nationals, four Lao nationals, one Cambodian, and one Thai national.
The largest operation targeted a rented house in Salakham village, Hatsayfong district, where police arrested 24 Chinese nationals. Officers said they uncovered a scam call center containing thousands of mobile phones, dozens of computers, several unregistered vehicles, and other equipment at a property linked to a local businessman.
Officers also raided a rental house in Nonghai village,arresting another 24 suspects and seizing large quantities of computer equipment.
The remaining 15 suspects were arrested in separate raids across Mai, Mueangvatha, Oubmoung, and Wattay Noy villages in Sikhottabong district.
Officials said the syndicate primarily targeted Chinese citizens and confirmed Lao authorities will hand the suspects over to Chinese police following interrogation, while deporting the Cambodian suspect to their national authorities.
Authorities will also blacklist the group under the Law on Entry-Exit and Foreign Management, permanently barring them from re-entering Laos.
Border Enforcement Push
The raid extends a nationwide crackdown that has intensified since early this year.
In the north, Bokeo authorities reported on 4 August that they arrested 87 suspects of eight nationalities, mostly Vietnamese, alongside Chinese, Myanmar, Ethiopian, Pakistani, Indian, Malaysian, and Lao nationals, in Tonpheung district between 17 and 27 July, seizing hundreds of mobile phones and desktop computers.
Earlier on July 28, in southern Laos, officers in Attapeu raided a Vietnamese-run scam and crypto-mining operation, detaining six Vietnamese men aged 17 to 35 and recovering firearms, mining rigs, and passports tied to victims defrauded through police impersonation schemes.
On July 11, in Vientiane Capital, police arrested 122 foreign nationals from China, Malaysia, Brazil, Myanmar, Uruguay, and Pakistan in rented houses in Buengkhayong village, Sisattanak district.
Nationwide, authorities arrested more than 2,000 people linked to alleged online fraud operations in both June and July as part of a broader crackdown. In early July, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone told the National Assembly that authorities had arrested more than 4,400 people linked to cybercrime, online fraud, and illegal gambling during the first six months of 2026.
A left picture is a collagen packaging with edited picture of police on it, and a right picture is a Facebook user being questioned after posted picture of police petrol. (Photo by Lao Security News)
Lao authorities have warned social media users against posting content that damages the reputation of police officers and state institutions after three recent cases involving Facebook and TikTok posts.
In the cases, three individuals were questioned, fined, or required to issue public apologies over posts as officials said misrepresented or harmed the image of law enforcement personnel.
The latest case involved a man identified as Mai from Phonhong district, Vientiane Province.
According to Public Security News, authorities questioned Mai on 3 August after he allegedly edited a photograph of a police officer and placed it on collagen packaging. He later posted the altered image on Facebook on 25 July with comments that officials said mocked and defamed law enforcement personnel.
Police said the post attracted widespread criticism online and damaged the reputation of the security forces. After questioning, Mai signed a statement acknowledging wrongdoing and issued a public apology.
Authorities said the case was handled under the Penal Code, including Articles 168 and 372, which cover defamation and causing reputational damage through public communication.
Other Recent Cases
The case followed two similar incidents reported in July.
On 13 July in Xieng Khouang Province, authorities summoned a woman after she recorded police officers during an operation against illegal gold mining and later posted the footage on TikTok.
The Propaganda and Training Board, which oversees the country’s media and directs the party’s propaganda and public communications work, reported that the video prompted online comments insulting police officers, damaging their reputation. Authorities warned the woman, educated her about the legal consequences of her actions, and fined her under relevant regulations.
In another case on 15 July, police in Xaythany district, Vientiane Capital, summoned a Facebook user after she posted a photo of officers on a late-night patrol at 2:17 AM and questioned whether they were genuine police.
Authorities said the post misrepresented a routine patrol by officers from a police station in Dontiew village, prompting criticism online. The woman later apologized, admitting she had not verified the information before sharing it.
Officials said the case also violated provisions of the Penal Code covering defamation and acts that damage the reputation of individuals or state institutions.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – For six decades, the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has been a central architect of Thailand’s economic landscape, translating national ambition into sustained industrial growth. Established in 1966, the BOI’s enduring legacy is defined by institutional foresight and policy adaptability, evolving from laying the groundwork for import-substitution industries in its early years to becoming a manufacturing powerhouse and navigating global economic shifts, while demonstrating continued commitment to technological and social development.
60 Years of BOI
This evolution is reflected in long-standing investment relationships with many of the world’s most iconic corporations. Global titans like Toyota, Minebea, Delta Electronics, Cargill, Western Digital, Seagate, Microchip and ADI—along with countless other global industry leaders—have not just invested in Thailand; they have thrived, expanded, and innovated within an ecosystem shaped by consistent policy direction and strong government support. Their continued presence underscores Thailand’s macroeconomic stability, strategic location, and the BOI’s role as a reliable institutional anchor for foreign investment.
As it marks its 60th anniversary, the BOI is drawing on this accumulated experience to frame Thailand’s next phase of economic transformation. Guided by the theme – “Shaping Thailand’s Future Through Strategic Investment” – the emphasis has shifted towards positioning Thailand as a high-value production base, driven by innovation, sustainability, and future industries that align with long-term structural trends. The strategy places particular weight on regional integration and cross-border partnerships, reflecting Thailand’s ambition to remain relevant in a fragmenting global economy.
A Resounding Vote of Global Confidence: Thailand’s Unprecedented 2025 Performance Investor response in 2025 suggests that this recalibration is gaining traction. Record investment figures serve as an early signal of confidence, reflecting both Thailand’s revised policy direction and the institutional credibility built over six decades.
In 2025, total investment applications reached USD 60.23 billion (1.87 trillion baht) across 3,370 projects, a 67% increase in value and an 11% rise in project count, both year-on-year — underscoring the BOI’s focus on technology-driven investment and Thailand’s growing role as a regional hub. This momentum carried into 2026: investment applications in the first half of the year (January–June) alone reached USD 47.47 billion (1.47 trillion baht) across 1,299 projects, up 37% year-on-year, while FDI applications climbed 80% to USD 44.08 billion (1.37 trillion baht) even amid global economic headwinds. Projects approved during the period are expected to generate more than 82,000 jobs, drive over USD 12.46 billion (386,900 million baht) a year in local raw material sourcing, and contribute more than USD 39.94 billion (THB 1.24 trillion baht) a year in export value.
Sectoral trends, especially in high-technology industries and AI, underline this rapid shift. The Digital sector, the Electronics & Electrical Appliances sector, and the AI supply chain are all seeing momentum in advanced manufacturing, including photonics devices, PCB, and semiconductor-related activities. In automotive production, Thailand is consolidating its regional leadership through higher-value components and the build-out of a full EV ecosystem. The Agriculture & Food Processing sector continues to move up the value chain, while petrochemicals and chemicals are increasingly oriented towards specialty products and circular-economy applications. Together, these developments suggest a gradual repositioning of Thailand within global production networks.
Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the BOI, reflected on this monumental achievement: “For six decades, the BOI has been instrumental in charting Thailand’s economic course, from foundational industrialization to pioneering a technology-driven, sustainable future. Our role transcends merely attracting capital; it is about strategically shaping our economic landscape to respond to a rapidly changing world. The investment figures of 2025 and the first half of 2026 are a clear endorsement of this long-term vision, confirming global trust in our strategic direction and our resolute commitment to forging a stable, innovative, and green economy for generations to come.”
The BOI’s Vision for Building the Foundation for the Next Decade Building on its previous success, the BOI’s strategy aims to anchor Thailand more firmly within ASEAN’s investment geography. Over the next decade, the agency seeks to position Thailand as a center for business across ASEAN, navigating geopolitical uncertainties and fostering deeper collaboration across critical global supply chains.
Key pillars of this ambitious vision include:
Leading Strategic Industries: The BOI aims to solidify Thailand’s global leadership by focusing on six strategic sectors. These include Bio&Green Industries, which encompass the bio-economy, modern agriculture, future foods, and clean energy, leveraging Thailand’s strengths and resources for added value and sustainable growth. Also prioritized are Modern Automotive, focusing on all types of Electric Vehicles and their parts, building upon Thailand’s robust foundation; Semiconductors and Advanced Electronics, critical for strengthening supply chains; Artificial Intelligence and Digital, serving as fundamental infrastructure; International Business Hubs, fostering high-value jobs and knowledge transfer; and Automation and Robotics, which have gained tremendous investment momentum in Thailand.
Skill Bridge, a future-ready workforce: Addressing skills development has become a policy priority. The BOI is expanding initiatives to develop talent in data technologies, artificial intelligence, and electronics and semiconductors, among others, reflecting rising workforce demand to support the growth of capital-intensive and technology-led industries.
Fostering Global Investor Alliances: Beyond individual projects, the BOI is seeking to create a collaborative ecosystem. This involves connecting global investors with local SMEs, governmental agencies, and cutting-edge research institutions to drive shared growth, foster innovation, and integrate Thailand’s vibrant domestic businesses into global value chains.
Thailand FastPass: To accelerate investment decisions and reduce investment friction, the BOI, under the Government’s initiative, has introduced Thailand FastPass — a dedicated service channel for investors in targeted industries and large-scale, high-impact projects. This streamlines processes, cuts approval timelines, and assigns a dedicated liaison officer to coordinate permitting, licensing, and regulatory processes across government agencies on the investor’s behalf. Thailand FastPass reflects the BOI’s commitment to matching the pace of global capital flows and ensuring Thailand remains a competitive, responsive destination for investors who require speed and certainty.
Powering Thailand on the Global Stage: A Hub of Collaboration and Opportunity Mr. Narit emphasized Thailand’s strategic goal: to position the nation as an attractive investment destination and a “safe haven” amidst global geopolitical shifts. He highlighted Thailand’s inherent geopolitical neutrality, making it an ideal manufacturing base for exports to major global markets. This strategic advantage, combined with proactive cooperation on digital rules, cybersecurity, and the green economy, supports inclusive and sustainable ASEAN growth.
With the upcoming 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group in October, Thailand is poised to further solidify its global leadership, showcasing its economic openness and commitment to sustainable advancement.
Invest in Thailand: Your Strategic Advantage in the Heart of Asia The message from the Thai Government is clear: Thailand is open for business and committed to your success. In a complex global landscape, Thailand offers unparalleled stability, strategic market access, and unwavering policy support.
The BOI has evolved beyond merely offering incentives, transforming into a dedicated strategic partner for a seamless and profitable investment journey. Its role encompasses promoting high-value investments through competitive incentives, integrating businesses seamlessly across government, private sector, and civil society, connecting them to robust global partners and supply chains, and facilitating smooth market entry and sustainable operations with comprehensive, end-to-end services.
As global leaders converge in Thailand, the spotlight is firmly on the country’s immense potential. Partner with us to tap into the future of the digital economy, advance sustainable manufacturing, and lead innovation from Asia’s premier investment hub.
Discover how your business can thrive in Thailand. Contact the Board of Investment today and let us help you build your future.
Voices of Conviction – Investors Endorse Thailand’s Vision The momentum isn’t just in the numbers; it’s in the deep conviction of the investors powering this growth.
“The business community consistently sees the BOI’s role as an accessible and open platform, crucial for strengthening Thailand’s competitiveness. Its focus on skilled labor development, R&D promotion, and regulatory facilitation actively delivers clear pathways for investment, aligning industry with national development priorities. By supporting initiatives such as renewable energy and green manufacturing, it affirms the BOI’s unwavering efforts to ensure Thailand remains a premier regional investment hub for all investors, present and future.” — Heidi Gallant, Executive Director, AMCHAM Thailand
“For Japanese companies, the BOI stands as an invaluable partner and crucial bridge, adeptly connecting government policies with our evolving needs and tirelessly working to enhance Thailand’s investment landscape. Their proactive leadership in Green and Digital Transformation is vital for strengthening global supply chains and fostering new business opportunities, firmly cementing Thailand’s position as a premier export and innovation hub. We are deeply committed to deepening this essential collaboration.” — ABE Ichiro, President of JETRO Bangkok
“The BOI is more than a facilitator; it is the strategic partner bridging government policies with investor needs, fundamentally driving our continuous growth. Truly, without BOI, we would not have been able to make such stable investments. Their vision, aligning with our pivot into ‘Industries of the Future’ like AI servers and humanoid robots, is complemented by a robust ESG framework. This has cemented Thailand as our core regional production base, and we are committed to deepening this essential partnership for the next 60 years and beyond.” — Yoshihisa Kainuma, Representative Director, Chairman and CEO, MinebeaMitsumi Inc.
“BOI’s longstanding support has enabled Nestlé Thailand’s continuous business growth. We commend BOI’s leadership in championing ESG-driven investments, an approach closely aligned with Nestlé’s Creating Shared Value philosophy, which focuses on building a sustainable business while contributing positively to Thai people, society, and the environment. Nestlé remains deeply committed to Thailand and will continue investing, as well as creating value for Thai consumers, farmers, and local businesses across our value chain.” — Victor Seah, Chairman and CEO of Nestlé Indochina
A Foundation of Foresight – Six Decades of Strategic Evolution Thailand’s historic investment achievements are not a matter of chance; they are the direct result of a deliberate, forward-looking government strategy continuously honed over 60 years. Established in 1966 under the Industrial Promotion Act, the BOI has consistently demonstrated its capacity for proactive adaptation and strategic leadership, evolving through distinct policy shifts:
Thailand’s investment trajectory reflects deliberate policy choices rather than coincidence. Since its establishment under the Industrial Promotion Act in 1966, the BOI has adapted its approach in line with shifting economic conditions:
1966–1975: Import substitution.
1976–1985: Export-oriented growth and integration into global markets.
1986–1995: Accelerated growth and Thailand’s regional development.
1996–2005: Post-crisis recovery and international trade liberalization.
2006–2015: Higher-value investment and technology development.
2016–present: Strategic Industries and the Green-Digital Transformation.
Current measures—including green-transformation incentives, the Long-Term Resident visa, investment retention and relocation programmes—extend this policy lineage, underpinning Thailand’s push towards a more sustainable and technology-driven economy.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Thailand Board of Investment (BOI)
Established in 1966, the Office of the Board of Investment (BOI) has continuously played an essential role for over 60 years in promoting value-adding investment for the country, from both foreign and Thai investors, to enhance national competitiveness and drive towards a new era of sustainable and balanced growth.
Investment Services Center- PR Section, The Office of the Board of Investment (BOI)
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 –Premium European Products made its return to Malaysia for the third consecutive year at the Malaysian food and beverage trade show. This time round, Premium European Products joined the International Food & Beverage Trade Fair (MIFB) 2026, held from 15–17 July 2026.
Building on the success of its previous editions, this year’s participation further reinforced the campaign’s role in connecting Greek and Latvian producers with key players in Malaysia. Alongside the trade fair showcase, Premium European Products hosted for third year Business-to-Business (B2B) Dinners, bringing together stakeholders, importers and retailers for business matching, market insights and discussions on the growing demand for premium European products. Held ahead of Malaysia’s National Day period, the event also created timely opportunities for restaurants, cafés, hotels and foodservice operators to explore how Premium European Products can be incorporated into locally inspired menus.
Throughout the three-day showcase at MIFB and B2B dinners, visitors and guests had the opportunity to discover a curated selection of premium Greek and Latvian products. The Greek showcase featured a range of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) products including Cretan PDO Graviera cheese, PDO green table olives of Konservolia variety, PDO Cretan extra virgin olive oils from Koroneiki variety, PDO Corinthian Raisins Vostitsa, PDO Masticha Chios resins, and PDO Krokos Kozanis saffron.
The Latvian showcase complemented this with a premium selection of dairy products, high-quality cheese snacks, fine chocolate and confectionery, and handcrafted dried fruits. Together, these products reflected the quality, authenticity and versatility of European food and beverage offerings, while demonstrating strong potential for Malaysia’s retail, hospitality and foodservice sectors.
Beyond their European heritage, the products also demonstrated strong relevance to Malaysian tastes and cooking styles. Long threads of Krokos Kozanis saffron, blue-black small Vostitsa dried raisins and Latvian sweetness dried fruits can be incorporated into rice-based dishes such as briyani, nasi minyak and festive rice preparations, adding their natural distinctive aroma, colour and flavours. Olive oils and table olives with their rich flavors that differ for every variety can complement grilled seafood, roasted chicken, salads, sambal-based appetisers and modern café dishes, while Graviera cheese with its sweet flavor and subtle spicy notes can be used in pastries, flatbreads, sandwiches, salads and fusion snacks. Latvian cream cheese and truffle butter also offer versatile applications for bakery items, spreads, sauces and premium foodservice creations, making them suitable for Malaysian consumers who are increasingly open to elevated yet approachable international flavours.
The successful return of Premium European Products for its third consecutive year reflects growing interest in premium European products and the continued value of business exchange between Greece, Latvia and Malaysia. Through its presence at MIFB and dedicated B2B networking sessions, the campaign continues to support stronger market access, business cooperation and product discovery within Malaysia’s evolving food and beverage landscape.
Hashtag: #PremiumEuropeanProducts
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Premium European Products:
The “Premium European Products” campaign is a promotional program co-funded by the European Union. It highlights the safety, traceability, and authentic flavours of European agri-food products, supporting their expansion into high-growth international markets like Malaysia.
Pages dedicated to this program can be found on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, @premiumeuropeanproducts.
About National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS)
Founded by Greece’s leading cooperatives and established by Greek law, ETHEAS is the national coordinating body of Agricultural Cooperatives in Greece. With over 300 member cooperatives representing approximately 80% of Greece’s total agricultural cooperative turnover, ETHEAS aims to foster rural and cooperative development, support and promote its members’ activities domestically and internationally, provide expert opinions on cooperative movement, agricultural production and sector development, supervise the dissemination and promotion of cooperative ideas, and serve and educate its members through studies, research projects, and assignments.
About Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC)
The Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC) was established in 1995, represents the Latvian dairy processing sector and aims to protect its interests. It consists of 17 members processing approximately 80% of industrially produced milk in Latvia.
SHANGHAI, Aug. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Innogen Pharmaceuticals (HK.2591), a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to innovative drug discovery and industrialization in metabolic diseases, today announced that its Efsubaglutide alfa manufacturing facility in Suzhou has officially passed a compliance inspection conducted by the Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) in accordance with the Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PIC/S) Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, and has received the GMP certificate issued by ANVISA.
This milestone represents a significant recognition of Innogen Pharmaceuticals’ quality systems by an international regulatory authority, confirming that the Company’s manufacturing site has achieved PIC/S GMP international standards. It will further accelerate the registration, market access, and commercial partnerships for Efsubaglutide alfa in Brazil and other emerging markets that recognize the PIC/S GMP framework, providing a critical quality assurance foundation for the product’s internationalization. With Brazil as a key strategic hub, the Company will further expand into South American and other PIC/S member markets, laying a solid groundwork for the global development and overseas registration of additional indications of Efsubaglutide Alfa, and continuously strengthening Innogen’s global footprint.
Brazil is the largest country in South America and bears one of the heaviest diabetes burdens worldwide. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 16.6 million adults in Brazil live with diabetes, ranking among the highest globally. Meanwhile, the overweight adult rate exceeds 60% and obesity prevalence stands at around 26%, driving sustained demand for innovative metabolic therapies[1]. With the continuous improvement of the local healthcare system, opportunities are opening for global products and services to enter the Brazilian medical market. IQVIA reports indicate that Brazil’s pharmaceutical market reached US$35.6 billion in 2023, accounting for 2.2% of the global market, making it a key focus for Innogen’s overseas commercialization strategy.
Efsubaglutide alfa is an innovative, human-derived, ultra-long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist independently developed by Innogen Pharmaceuticals. It has been approved in Mainland China and Macau for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults and has been included in China’s National Reimbursement Drug List. The pivotal SUPER series clinical studies demonstrated that Efsubaglutide alfa provides significant glycemic reduction in patients with type 2 diabetes. After 24 weeks of once‑weekly 3 mg treatment, mean HbA1c decreased by approximately 2.2% from baseline in treatment‑naïve patients, and by approximately 1.8% in patients with inadequate glycemic control on metformin background therapy, with a favorable safety and tolerability profile and observed signals of improved β‑cell function.
The clinical value of Efsubaglutide alfa in weight management continues to be validated. In the China‑based ENLIGHT phase Ⅱb study, subjects receiving 20 mg once weekly (Q1W) for 18 weeks achieved a mean weight reduction of 10.6% and a waist circumference decrease of approximately 8.9 cm; the 20 mg once‑every‑two‑weeks (Q2W) group showed a mean weight loss of 9.7%, with improvements in body composition parameters including fat mass, liver fat content, and muscle‑to‑fat ratio. The Company is currently conducting a phaseⅡclinical trial for obesity in Australia, exploring a once‑monthly (Q4W) dosing regimen, to continuously accumulate evidence‑based data for future global registration and commercialization. In June 2026, the phase Ib clinical trial of Efsubaglutide alfa in adolescent obesity was approved by China’s National Medical Products Administration, and the first subject was enrolled in July, marking the official progression of this study into the clinical implementation stage.
Professor Wang Qinghua, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Innogen Pharmaceuticals, commented: This recognition under the PIC/S GMP framework marks a significant milestone in the development of our global quality systems. It will accelerate the registration and commercial launch of Efsubaglutide alfa across all PIC/S-aligned emerging markets, including Hong Kong, Southeast Asia and Latin America. Looking ahead, Innogen Pharmaceuticals will continue to adhere to international quality standards, leveraging independent innovation and proprietary intellectual property to advance the global development of Efsubaglutide alfa in metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity, bringing China’s original innovative achievements to more patients worldwide.
Reference:
1. Vigitel – Surveillance System for Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey, 2024
About PIC/S
PIC/S (Pharmaceutical Inspection Co‑operation Scheme) is a leading international organization that harmonizes GMP regulatory standards for pharmaceuticals worldwide. Its core objectives are to unify GMP requirements among member countries, promote mutual recognition of GMP inspection results, and enhance cross‑border regulatory collaboration. PIC/S members include drug regulatory authorities from major countries and regions globally, and its GMP standards carry high credibility in pharmaceutical markets worldwide, particularly in emerging markets such as Latin America and Southeast Asia. ANVISA officially joined the PIC/S scheme in 2021, and its rigorous GMP inspection standards are recognized as a benchmark regulatory authority in South America.
About Innogen Pharmaceuticals
Founded in 2014, Innogen (HKEX.2591) focuses on innovative metabolic disease drugs, with fully proprietary pipelines covering T1D, obesity, MASH, and AD, supported by global IP and patent portfolios. Its core product, Efsubaglutide Alfa (a next-generation human-derived ultra-long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist), is approved for type 2 diabetes in Chinese Mainland and Macau SAR, included in China’s National Reimbursement Drug List, and is under global development and registration. Learn more: www.innogenpharm.com.
Latest Avenir release gives organizations more direct access to the travel content, data and service needed to manage modern travel programs
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – Direct Travel, one of the world’s largest travel management companies, today announced the next evolution of Avenir, its advanced travel management platform designed to give organizations the most direct access to travel content, data, service, and an expanding set of capabilities that help them manage, optimize, and strengthen their travel programs and the experience for travelers.
Direct Travel Introduces the Next Evolution of Avenir
Business travel has never offered more opportunity or more complexity. New content sources, evolving distribution models, AI, and an expanding ecosystem of travel technologies are creating tremendous new possibilities, but they are also fragmenting how organizations access travel content, data, and service. As information becomes dispersed across multiple systems, travel managers face growing challenges delivering consistent experiences, gaining timely insights, and effectively managing their programs.
Avenir was built to change that. Rather than requiring travel managers to work across disconnected systems, Avenir brings together the content, data, insights, tools, and expertise organizations need to manage modern travel programs through a single experience. The result is fewer obstacles between travel managers and the information they need, making it easier to access insights, manage travel programs, and support travelers throughout their journeys.
At the core of Avenir is Spotnana’s next generation cloud-based travel infrastructure, providing the modern booking and servicing infrastructure for enterprise travel. Direct Travel brings that technology to life through global implementation, enterprise travel expertise, and outstanding service, creating an enterprise ready solution for organizations around the world.
Avenir is built to grow beyond traditional travel management through an expanding ecosystem of connected capabilities. Rather than requiring organizations to adopt additional standalone tools, Avenir will provide more direct access to the services and technologies they need through a single experience. This release marks the first step with the introduction of Juno for guest travel. By connecting guest travel with managed travel, organizations gain more complete visibility across total travel activity and richer insights to support better decisions.
“As technology continues to reshape business travel, our focus has remained the same: helping travel program owners run better travel programs and deliver better experiences for their travelers,” said Christal Bemont, Chief Executive Officer of Direct Travel. “Avenir gives organizations more direct access to the content, data, and service they need to manage modern travel programs. By removing many of the obstacles between travel managers and the information they need, we help them spend less time navigating systems and more time making strategic decisions that improve their programs.”
The latest release introduces several new capabilities designed to help travel program owners work more efficiently and make more informed decisions.
One place to manage your travel program
Avenir now provides a single destination for reporting, travel resources, program insights, and integrated partner capabilities through one secure login, reducing the need to move between multiple systems.
Ask better questions. Get better answers.
Avenir is built on a modern, AI-ready data foundation that brings together trusted travel data from across the program into a secure, governed environment. Rather than relying on static reports, travel managers can ask questions in natural language through Ask Avenir and receive trusted answers, build reports on demand, and analyze complex travel spend in minutes. Combined with new dashboards, trend analysis, proactive insights, and actionable recommendations, Avenir helps organizations identify opportunities, make more informed decisions, and continuously improve their travel programs.
A more intelligent travel experience
Avenir is evolving to deliver AI throughout the travel experience by combining Direct Travel’s own AI innovations with the power of Spotnana’s new multi-agent AI architecture and an expanding ecosystem of specialized AI capabilities. As Spotnana introduces new AI experiences for travelers, travel managers, and travel advisors, Direct Travel will bring those capabilities to customers through Avenir while continuing to automate routine workflows and simplify servicing.
At the same time, Avenir’s open architecture allows organizations to take advantage of focused AI solutions from trusted partners. Whether interacting with the platform through natural language, receiving intelligent recommendations, or using specialized assistants like Otto for focused travel experiences, customers will benefit from AI that works together through a single connected platform.
Built for what’s next
Avenir’s open architecture creates a connected foundation that allows Direct Travel to continuously expand the platform with new capabilities and best in class partner solutions. As customer needs evolve, organizations will gain access to additional experiences across travel management, analytics, automation, meetings and events, expense, duty of care, and other connected services without replacing the technology at the core of their travel program.
“Avenir has become our one-stop shop for understanding our travel program,” said Lisa Kaffenberger, People & Culture Travel Manager, BDO. “Whether I need to track a ticket from beginning to end or get answers to questions that once required hours of manual reporting, it’s all right there. It’s not just another application. It’s becoming the foundation for how we manage our travel program by making the information we need easier to access, and we’re excited to see where it goes next.”
“In APAC, the real friction in travel management isn’t a lack of data – it’s an access problem. Avenir cuts through regional complexity by turning fragmented spreadsheets and guest travel into a single system of record, giving leaders immediate, trusted intelligence to optimize spend rather than react to it,” added Ali Hussain, Managing Director – Asia Pacific of Direct Travel.
The new release is another step in Direct Travel’s strategy to give organizations more direct access to the content, data, expertise, and technology they need to build smarter, more connected travel programs.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Direct Travel, Inc.
Direct Travel is one of the world’s largest travel management companies, focused on delivering exceptional, innovative solutions to every client and traveler. With a long history of proven market expertise, we blend advanced technology, superior service and expert insight to drive tangible value and meaningful savings across Corporate Travel, Leisure Travel, Meetings & Events and specialty travel businesses.
Through Avenir, our next-generation platform developed with leading technology partners, we provide the industry’s broadest inventory and a modern, real-time shopping experience that empowers travelers and simplifies program management. What truly sets us apart is the human care behind the technology, delivered by an experienced, passionate team dedicated to anticipating needs and delivering exceptional service at every step.
For more information about Direct Travel, visit www.dt.com
PERTH, Australia, Aug. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At the Boao Forum for Asia Perth Conference on July 27, Li Donglin, Chairman of CRRC Zhuzhou Institute, joined global political and business leaders to share the company’s strategy for scaling green industries through proprietary technologies and application-driven innovation.
Boao Forum: CRRC Zhuzhou Institute Outlines Core Technologies and Application-Driven Innovation for Green Industry Growth
Discussing how to move innovation from the laboratory to commercial deployment, Li argued that real-world industrial settings should determine technology priorities. He cited partnerships with XCMG Group and Australian mining giant Fortescue as examples. Together they are creating integrated green value chains linking mines, railways and shipping—for example, using renewable energy to power electric locomotives and producing ammonia and methanol from renewable hydrogen for marine fuel. These system-level applications, Li said, create the real-world demand that drives innovation.
“The economics of a project ultimately determine whether green innovation can scale globally,” Li said. He stressed that investors focus on profitability and long-term value. To that end, the company is raising R&D spending to improve the efficiency of green energy conversion and drive unit costs down to globally competitive levels.
A flagship Chinese player in high-end equipment and green energy, CRRC Zhuzhou Institute has long honed its power conversion and control technologies. These have been widely deployed in high-speed rail and extended into wind turbines, solar inverters, and energy storage, performing reliably even in harsh environments from deserts to mining sites.
As renewables account for a growing share of electricity generation, the company is investing in grid-forming technology and advanced power system equipment to strengthen grid stability and renewable integration.
“A sustainable green future requires not just industrial competitiveness but tight coordination across the global supply chain,” Li concluded. As an active participant in the next phase of global green-industry cooperation, CRRC Zhuzhou Institute looks forward to working more closely with partners around the world, building on its technological expertise and industrial scale. The goal is to strike the right balance between deployment, safety, and growth—and in doing so, advance the sustainability of the global green sector.
About CRRC Zhuzhou Institute
CRRC Zhuzhou Institute is a high-tech company specializing in power conversion and control technologies. Its operations span rail transit, renewable energy (wind, solar, energy storage, and hydrogen), and industrial applications. The company has developed an integrated green industry cluster that covers power generation, grid, load, and storage within a unified framework.
Acquisition expands Mintoak’s footprint across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and Asia, strengthening its ability to help banks unlock new revenue opportunities beyond payments
Combined business generates over US$30 million in annual revenue with a profitability margin exceeding 30%
MUMBAI, India, Aug. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Mintoak, the payments and engagement OS for acquirers, today announced the acquisition of ICC Loyalty, expanding its footprint across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and Asia while helping banks unlock new revenue opportunities beyond payments.
Headquartered in Dubai, UAE, ICC Loyalty serves over 30 leading banks and 11 million customers across 10+ countries, with clients including Emirates Islamic, Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) and RAKBANK.
The acquisition expands Mintoak beyond merchant payments to include customer engagement, loyalty and rewards. The combined business generates over US$30 million in annual revenue with a profitability margin exceeding 30%.
“This acquisition represents a defining milestone for Mintoak,” said Raman Khanduja, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mintoak. “Payments have become the foundation of banking relationships. The next phase of growth will come from engagement. By bringing together merchant engagement, customer loyalty and data-driven intelligence, we are building a Payments and Engagement OS that enables banks to create greater value for merchants, consumers and banks.”
“Joining Mintoak allows us to integrate their advanced AI and platform capabilities into ICC’s ecosystem, delivering next-generation hyper-personalisation for both our existing and new clients,” said Amit Narang, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, ICC Loyalty. “Together, we will help banks deliver more meaningful customer experiences while creating measurable commercial value.”
Following the acquisition, Mintoak now partners with over 50 banks across 20+ countries, including HDFC Bank, Axis Bank and SBI Payments in India, Emirates Islamic and RAKBANK in the Middle East and Absa Bank in Africa. Backed by PayPal Ventures, British International Investment, Pravega Ventures, HDFC Bank and Z3Partners, its platform supports over 5 million merchants and 11 million customers while powering more than US$93 billion in annual payment volume.
Together, Mintoak and ICC Loyalty are building the leading Payments and Engagement OS for banks, helping financial institutions unlock deeper customer relationships and new revenue opportunities.
Mintoak is the payments and engagement OS for banks, helping financial institutions transform payment transactions into customer engagement, recurring revenue and long-term value. Mintoak now partners with more than 50 banks across 20+ countries, including HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, SBI Payments, Emirates Islamic, RAKBANK and Absa Bank. Backed by PayPal Ventures, HDFC Bank, British International Investment, Pravega Ventures and Z3Partners.
About ICC Loyalty
ICC Loyalty is a Dubai, UAE-headquartered loyalty technology company helping banks build engagement and rewards programmes. It serves over 30 leading banks and 11 million customers across 10+ countries, including Emirates Islamic, Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) and RAKBANK across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and Asia.
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