34.4 C
Vientiane
Saturday, May 17, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 1008

amfori Asia Sustainability Summit 2024

Shaping Responsible Supply Chains for a Sustainable Future


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 November 2024 – Organised by amfori, a leading global business association for sustainable trade, its highly anticipated flagship event “amfori Asia Sustainability Summit” was concluded with great success yesterday at Hotel ICON in Hong Kong SAR, China. Attracting over a hundred participants from across Asia, this event highlighted the significant role Asia plays in driving a resilient and sustainable supply chain in global trade. Under the theme Shaping Responsible Supply Chains for a Sustainable Future,” the Summit brought together sustainability practitioners and advocates, policymakers, business leaders and key stakeholders from multiple countries in Asia and Europe. The Summit has offered a vital platform to exchange insights and strategies on how to comprehend and tackle some of the most pressing ESG challenges and opportunities in supply chains with an Asian perspective. Particularly with the adoption of the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), the Summit participants had in-depth discussions on how businesses navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and align the sustainability requirements in Europe and Asia.

Ms Linda Kromjong, President of amfori

In her welcome remarks, Ms Linda Kromjong, President of amfori, said, “Asia is not just a key player; it is the driving force of many best practices in the global supply chain.” amfori provides environmental, social and governance (ESG) actionable solutions to improve the sustainability performance of companies’ supply chain. ESG Due Diligence is a shared responsibility that requires every actor – from producers to suppliers, buyers, governments, CSOs, and international organisations – to take part. Shared responsibility will also translate into shared business opportunities. With Asia housing the top sourcing countries, there is no doubt that it will be a key actor in driving sustainable trade efforts in the world.

During her keynote speech, Ms Panudda Boonpala, Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, International Labour Organization (ILO), emphasized the importance of sustainable supply chains within Asia. She stressed that building resilience into our supply chain is not only about protecting workers’ right, but it is essential for long-term economic stability and growth. She also emphasized that collaboration across governments, businesses, and worker organisations is the key to fostering a system that prioritises human rights, fair wages and safe working conditions.

Ms Panudda Boonpala, Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, International Labour Organization (ILO)

The keynote speech was followed by a plenary panel discussion themed “Win-Win Collaborations in Driving ESG Performance in Asian Supply Chains.” Moderated by Mr Martin Kroenig, Director, Schwarz Asia Pacific Sourcing Ltd and Chair of the amfori Greater China Network, the session gathered leading buyer members and business partner including Mr Sebastien Pivet, Chief Sustainability Officer and QA Director of AS Watson, Mr Satte Tsao, Head of Vendor Compliance, Li & Fung Trading Ltd, Ms Jean Tai, Global Sourcing Director, Delsey Paris and Mr Kevin Chen, Vice General Manager, Wanxinda (Guangzhou) Technology Product Co. Ltd., who explored how supply chain collaborations in Asia have overcome challenges and created win-win solutions that enhance sustainability practices.

The Summit also featured four breakout sessions to discuss key issues relating to workers’ rights, as well as responsible purchasing and sustainable trade. In a session themed “Supporting Migrant Workers: Challenges and Solutions”, a distinguished panel of speakers including Ms Myriam Mwizerwa, Head of Office, Hong Kong SAR, China, IOM – UN Migration, Mr Matt Friedman, CEO and Founder, Mekong Club, and Ms Phoebe Ewen, Senior Human Rights & Responsible Sourcing Manager – Trade, Woolworths Group, engaged in a vibrant interactive dialogue on the challenges around migrant workers’ protection and provided viable solutions to support migrant workers across the supply chain in Asia.

With the growing recognition and advocacy for gender equality and inclusion around the world, the session themed “Gender Equality and Inclusivity: Pathways to Progress” brought together a diverse group of experts including Mr Namit Agarwal, Social Transformation Lead, World Benchmarking Alliance, Ms Luoqi Li, Financing for Gender Equity Analyst, UN Women, and Mr Roland Meng, Senior Trainer, Timeline Consultancy, who offered their insights into the business benefits of advancing gender equality and how to build a gender-sensitive Social Management System.

Different stakeholders including Ms Elif Kalan, Senior Product Operations Expert, amfori, Mr Brian Wong, Data Protection Officer & Assistant Sustainability Director, GP Batteries International Limited and Mr Vincent Lam, Supply Chain Sustainability Manager, Fruit of the Loom, joined the “Promoting and Advancing Responsible Purchasing Practices” breakout session, featuring the best practices of Responsible Purchasing Practices (RPPs) to drive sustainable trade.

Another highlight of the Summit was a workshop themed “Bridging Sustainable Trade Practices and Regulations between Europe and Asia”, led by experts and stakeholders from key sourcing countries including Dr Swati Singh, Director, International Trade Policy Division, Confederation of Indian Industries, Ms Gina Fu, Chairlady, Hong Kong Myanmar Manufacturers’ Association, and Ms Ines Kaempfer, CEO, The Centre for Child Rights & Business. The session was also an opportunity to organise group discussions among participants and explore how businesses can stay ahead of evolving regulations whilst achieving sustainable supply chains between Europe and Asia.

In parallel, the event also included a closed-door high level legislation roundtable discussion on “Bridging the Gap of Multiple Due Diligence Laws and Regulations in the EU and Asia”, in which leading sustainability experts from around Asia and Europe shared their views on the evolving regulations in the EU and Asia and how to align these due diligence frameworks in fostering regional cooperation. Key takeaways and recommendations from this session will contribute to amfori’s advocacy communications with multi-stakeholders and policy makers.

Towards the end of the summit, Ambassador Harvey Rouse, Head of the European Union Office for Hong Kong and Macao, shared the importance Europe attributes to green economy and sustainable trade, flagging many legislations underpinning this ambition such as the EU green policies, trade agreements with sustainable chapters; ESPR, CSDDD, CSRD, etc. and their impact for Asia. He started his intervention with the following quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe “Life belongs to the living and he who lives must be prepared for changes.” Changes initiated by this new legislative framework are designed to create a level playing field for business in- and outside Europe, offering opportunities for business to become more competitive, more resilient, more transparent, gain better access to finance and trade with the 27 European countries.

Ambassador Harvey Rouse, Head of the European Union Office for Hong Kong and Macao

Concluding the Summit, Ms Linda Kromjong, President of amfori, re-affirmed Asia’s role in shaping the future of sustainable trade and sustainable best practices, stating that, “Today, we heard how Asia holds its potential to bridge gaps in legislations, trade practices, and collaborations for a sustainable future. Together, let us drive Asia’s influence in making positive change for all!”

For other event photos: please check here.

Hashtag: #amfori

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

About amfori

amfori advocates for a world in which trade serves a purpose: delivering social, environmental and economic benefits for everyone. As a global business association, amfori supports its members at every step of their due diligence journey, offering a comprehensive range of ESG products and services. From supply chain mapping and assessment to reporting, from capacity building to facilitating stakeholder engagement, amfori provides a holistic approach to responsible business practices. Founded in 1977, and recognised for its flagship product amfori BSCI, amfori leverages decades of expertise and close collaboration with more than 2400 member companies as well as auditing companies, producers, factories, and other stakeholders such as policymakers. Representing a diverse array of industries in over 50 countries, that cover trade streams in over 100 countries, amfori continues to have a positive impact on fostering sustainable trade.

Lao Drug Smuggler Arrested in Cambodia with Over 1 Million Methamphetamine Pills

The police officers are working on the case (Photo: The Phnom Penh Post)

Cambodia officers seized a Lao national for possessing over 1 million meth pills while transporting them at the Trapeang Kriel International Border Checkpoint on 9 November.

Honour (Singapore) Announces Appointment of New Chair

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 November 2024 – Honour (Singapore) announced the appointment of Mr Mohammad Alami Musa as the new Chairman of the Board effective 14 November 2024. Mr Alami will succeed Mr Lim Siong Guan, who has been its founding Chairman since its establishment in 2014.

Honour (Singapore) is a not-for-profit, donor-funded charity dedicated to the mission of promoting a culture of Honour and Honourable Behaviour for the continued, long-term success of Singapore.

Mr Alami is an Adjunct Senior Fellow at the Rajaratnam School of International Studies, NTU. He is concurrently Singapore’s Non-Resident Ambassador to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria; former President of MUIS Council (Islamic Religious Council of Singapore) and Advisory panel member of Africa-Singapore Business Forum.

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Patron of Honour (Singapore), said: “Mr Lim Siong Guan built up Honour (Singapore) to help advance a social culture of ideals, mutual respect and trust. We are indebted to him for doing so. I am sure Mr Mohammad Alami Musa will take forward the cause in the years to come.”

Mr Lim Siong Guan remarked, “I am thrilled to welcome Mr Alami as our new Chairman. He has long recognised our work as a journey of heart and spirit, inspiring conviction and action rooted in our deepest values. His leadership will be instrumental in advancing Honour (Singapore)’s mission to foster a culture of honour and honourable behaviour across the nation. I personally look forward to the profound impact of his vision and guidance alongside our dedicated Board of Directors.”

In response to the appointment, Mr Alami shared, “I am truly honoured to step into this role. It is a privilege to be part of an organisation that champions this critically crucial cause in Singapore. Together with our board of directors and management team, partners and supporters, I am committed to building on Mr Lim Siong Guan’s illustrious accomplishments to bring about the long-term survival and success of Singapore.”

He added: “I am also very pleased to say that Mr Lim has agreed to continue serving as an Honorary Advisor at Honour (Singapore). The organisation extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mr Lim for his visionary leadership and invaluable contributions.”

Hashtag: #honoursingapore

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

Authentic French Culinary experience at the Taste France Pavilion in Wine & Dine Festival 2024


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 November 2024 – The Hong Kong Tourism Board proudly announces that this year’s Wine & Dine Festival attracted 155,000 Hong Kong residents and tourists. The Taste France pavilion was a major highlight, drawing crowds thanks to its engaging booth partners, dynamic activities, and a dedicated area for tastings and discussions.

(Taste France headbooth)

We are thrilled to share outstanding results from our recent social media initiatives, particularly highlighting our 4 collaborations with Hong Kong social media influencers and our “Taste France” ad campaign achieving remarkable visibility reaching over 670,000 users. Taste France, a brand launched by The French Ministry of Agriculture and Food of France in 2020, aims to allow more people to experience food and beverage of French origin across the globe. Through its events and platforms, it conveys the full range of advantages of France’s culinary heritage: tremendous know-how in agriculture, agri-food, and gastronomy; high health, safety, and environmental standards, and the talent for innovation of French firms.

Over the five-day event, the Taste France pavilion welcomed attendees to explore a range of enticing food and beverage booths. Visitors enjoyed delectable savoury and sweet crêpes Bretonne from La Creperie, high-quality French grocery items from Bon Eat O—featuring their festival bestseller, escargots (snails), and exquisite fish soup along with products from the South of France by Azaïs-Polito. Guests also savoured the newly launched sparkling Evian water, delicious raclette from Monsieur Chatté, and an assortment of French wines, sake, spirits from Wine To Love, and cheese platters at the Ile de France booth.

(Taste France booths)

At the Taste France head booth, festival-goers experienced enjoyable French wine tastings and were able to compare two varieties of Kronenbourg 1664 beers—Blanc and Brut. These tasting sessions, accommodating around 30 participants each, received rave reviews, particularly for unique offerings like French champagne, fine caviar, and premium fruit juices that delighted many culinary enthusiasts.

(Taste France tasting sessions)

The Taste France pavilion also featured a variety of entertainment, including performances by the Eiffel Tower man and the fanfare Electrogène, as well as the talents of a makeup artist, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.

(the fanfare Electrogène performance)

As the festival concludes, we look forward to welcoming everyone back next year for another unforgettable celebration of culinary excellence and cultural experiences at the Taste France pavilion. Stay tuned for more updates and prepare for an even more exciting event in 2025!

EXHIBITORS & SPONSORS:

Azais-Polito: Specializing in fine seafood products since 1963, Azais-Polito offers a range of gourmet conserves and delicacies. From exquisite fish soups to artisanal seafood preserves, each product reflects a commitment to quality and authenticity. Experience the true taste of the sea at our booth, where we bring the flavours of France directly to you!
https://www.azais-polito.fr/

Bon-Eat-O: Bon-Eat-O is a Grocery Mobile App, a one single platform to fill up your fridge. Best quality for the best available prices direct from fine wholesalers.
www.boneato.hk

Evian: Discover Evian’s sparkling natural mineral water, known for its fine bubbles and low sodium content. Perfectly paired with any dish or enjoyed on its own, it offers a refined taste that enhances your dining experience.
https://www.evian.com/en_int#/zh_HK/4-Home/

Ile de France Cheese: Indulge in a selection of soft, creamy cheeses that embody the authentic taste of France. Learn more about our offerings at Ile de France Cheese.
https://www.iledefrancecheese.com/zh-hk

La Crêperie: Bringing the joys of Brittany to Hong Kong, La Crêperie offers a delightful selection of traditional crêpes and galettes, crafted with love and authenticity. Enjoy the taste of Brittany right in the heart of the city!
https://www.lacreperierestaurants.com/

Monsieur CHATTÉ: Experience the heritage of French gastronomy with a wide range of gourmet catering options and delicacies imported directly from France. Specializing in raclette, this service offers an authentic taste of this beloved dish that brings friends and family together.
https://monsieurchatte.com/

Wine To Love – ‘Wine To Love’ starts with the Love for French Wine, specially from Bourgogne. Our wines are positioned as good quality from small family wineries which have limited production only for export. We believe: “No need to pay extra to enjoy extraordinary wine.
https://www.winetolove.com/

Kronenbourg 1664: Experience the elegance of Kronenbourg 1664, a premium beer brand known for its crisp, dry, and sparkling flavour. This lager, crafted in the tradition of French brewing, features floral and grape notes, making it a refreshing choice. The distinctive champagne-inspired packaging adds a touch of sophistication to your table.
https://www.1664blanc.com/

La French Radio : Find out what’s going on for French-speaking expatriates in Hong Kong and Macau, as well as good addresses, consular information and associations with French Radio.
https://www.lafrench.radio/

Trait d’Union: A magazine for the French-speaking community in Hong Kong, Macau, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Wuhan. It is published by Version Française, a company owned by Catya Martin and Philippe Dova.
https://www.traitdunionmag.com/

Magazine: https://www.tastefrance.com/
Business information: https://tastefranceforbusiness.com/contact/
Hashtag: #TasteFrance

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

Prudential expands preferred healthcare network in partnership with Icon Cancer Centre

Prudential customers now have access to ten cancer clinics, including a one-stop integrated cancer centre at Icon Cancer Centre Singapore


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 November 2024 – Prudential plc (“Prudential”) and Icon Cancer Centre Singapore (“Icon”) today announced a partnership that will provide Prudential’s health customers in Singapore and Indonesia access to outpatient cancer treatment, on a cashless basis[1], at Icon’s clinics in Singapore.

Arjan Toor, CEO, Health at Prudential plc.
Arjan Toor, CEO, Health at Prudential plc.

Treatments that are covered include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiotherapy and surgical oncology*. In addition to prescribed cancer drugs, Icon’s clinics can provide Prudential customers with access to a team of leading oncologists and haematologists. Customers based in Singapore can also make use of Icon’s diagnostic screening facility. Prudential’s customers in Indonesia who wish to receive their treatment overseas can choose any preferred clinic from the Icon Cancer Centre network in Singapore without having to pay out of pocket.

In Southeast Asia, more than 2.3 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year1. In Singapore, cancer incidence rates have risen by almost 28 per cent over the last 50 years2. For Indonesia, the same trend is observed with a 17 per cent increase of new diagnoses from 2020 to 20223.

“At Prudential, our focus is on providing affordable access to quality care for our customers. Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be life-changing and overwhelming, and questions about where to seek treatment and its cost only add to patients’ anxiety. Integrating Icon into Prudential’s preferred partnership network enables our customers to easily access a specialist cancer centre with proven expertise in treating many types of cancers without having to pay out of pocket,” said Arjan Toor, CEO, Health at Prudential plc.

“We have launched this partnership for the benefit of our customers in Singapore and Indonesia, two priority markets for our Health business, where we see growing demand for health insurance as well as an increasing volume of medical claims. We are looking to extend this access to other markets so more of our customers can benefit from high-quality cancer care,” said Toor.

“Icon is pleased to partner with Prudential to enhance access to high-quality cancer care, diagnosis, and treatment. Together, we are dedicated to making a lasting impact on cancer care and improving outcomes for patients. This partnership will help ease the burden for patients and their families, relieving some of the stress that comes with a cancer diagnosis and allowing them to focus on their treatment and wellbeing,” said Serena Wee, CEO, Icon Cancer Centre – ASEAN.


[1] In Singapore, customers holding the PRUExtra Premier, PRUExtra Premier CoPay and PRUExtra Preferred CoPay plans are eligible under PRUPanel Connect (PPC) for cashless medical services at Icon through an enhanced electronic letter of guarantee or pre-authorisation.
For terms and conditions, click here: PRUPanel Connect Terms & Conditions | Prudential Singapore

Notes:
*Diagnostics, drugs, and other services unrelated to outpatient chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy treatment will require payment at Icon Cancer Centre.
1World Health Organisation
2National Registry of Diseases Office
32020 World Health Organisation Cancer Country Profile and 2022 World Health Organisation Indonesia Factsheet
Hashtag: #Prudential #Icon

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

About Prudential plc

Prudential plc provides life and health insurance and asset management in 24 markets across Asia and Africa. Prudential’s mission is to be the most trusted partner and protector for this generation and generations to come, by providing simple and accessible financial and health solutions. The business has dual primary listings on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (2378) and the London Stock Exchange (PRU). It also has a secondary listing on the Singapore Stock Exchange (K6S) and a listing on the New York Stock Exchange (PUK) in the form of American Depositary Receipts. It is a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index and is also included for trading in the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme and the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme.

Prudential is not affiliated in any manner with Prudential Financial, Inc. a company whose principal place of business is in the United States of America, nor with The Prudential Assurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom.

About Icon

Icon Group

Icon Group is Australia’s largest integrated provider of cancer care with a growing reach in New Zealand, Asia and the United Kingdom.

Icon is built on a strong but simple mission – to deliver the best care possible to as many people as possible, as close to home as possible. The group brings together all aspects of quality cancer care including medical oncology, haematology, radiation oncology, research, theranostics, pharmacy and compounding to deliver a truly integrated, end-to-end seamless service for cancer patients. With more than 3,500 team members, a network of more than 350 doctors, more than 45 cancer centres, six compounding facilities and operational support of 70 plus pharmacies, Icon is delivering world-leading care and helping address the global cancer burden.

For more information visit and follow Icon Group on LinkedIn at

Icon Cancer Centre – Singapore

Icon Cancer Centre is a leading private cancer care provider delivering a holistic approach to cancer care. Icon Cancer Centre is part of Icon Group, a global cancer care provider with more than 45 centres globally. Icon Cancer Centre has six specialist clinics in Singapore and a dedicated health screening clinic. With a prominent and experienced team of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, haematologists, paediatric haematologist-oncologists, palliative care specialists, general practitioners and visiting surgical oncologists, Icon provides end-to-end cancer care from screening and diagnosis, through to treatment and beyond.

For more information visit

Editor’s Note
Preferred clinics from Icon Cancer Centre:
1. Icon Cancer Centre – Mount Alvernia
2. Icon Nuclear Medicine and PET-CT Centre – Mount Alvernia Hospital
3. Icon Radiation Oncology – Mount Alvernia Hospital
4. Icon Surgical Oncology Centre – Mount Alvernia Hospital
5. Icon Cancer Centre – Farrer Park
6. Icon Cancer Centre – Gleneagles
7. Icon Cancer Centre – Mount Elizabeth
8. Icon Cancer Centre – Novena
9. Icon Cancer Centre – Orchard
10. Icon Haematology Centre – Mount Elizabeth

Lao Bodybuilders Shine at World Championship, Claim Two Gold Medals

Lao Bodybuilders Make History with Two Gold Medals at World Bodybuilding Championship
Gold medalists Chintana Khambounheuang (right) and Khamla Samavong (left) proudly display their prizes upon arrival at Wattay Airport on 13 November, following their historic wins at the 15th World Bodybuilding Championship in the Maldives.

Two Lao bodybuilders, Chintana Khambounheuang and Khamla Samavong, each won a gold medal at the 15th World Bodybuilding Championship held in the Maldives from 5 to 11 November.

Laos, United Nation Team Up on Youth Empowerment, Gender-Based Violence Initiatives

The meeting (Photo supplied)

On 12 November, Lao Women Union, Lao Youth Union, the United Nations agencies and key development partners came together to discuss groundbreaking initiatives aiming to empower youth and address gender-based violence in Laos. 

HonKuwa Pharmaceutical Debuts at the 7th CIIE, showcasing a new trend of natural health


SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 November 2024 – HonKuwa Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Japan, made a significant debut at the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), presenting two new products—a plaster and a gel—designed to invigorate blood circulation, alleviate pain, and promote muscle and joint health.

PressReleaseTMPLNCl3o.jpg

Both products are formulated with extracts from mint and traditional Chinese herbal ingredients, crafted to be non-allergenic. They provide relief for 8 to 12 hours, effectively treating joint and muscle strains, offering a safe, natural, and effective solution for pain relief.

“This is our first appearance at the CIIE since entering the Chinese market,” said Yang Yuanzhuo, General Manager of HonKuwa Pharmaceutical in China.CIIE provides an open, innovative, and collaborative platform that allows us to showcase our concepts, services, and products. We hope that through this expo, more people will come to understand the natural, safe, and effective characteristics of HonKuwa’s products.”

Yang expressed optimism about the company’s expansion in China, stating, “The Chinese market is our largest in Asia, and we are confident in its growth potential. Since our entry in 2018, we have seen consistent, positive feedback from customers. We will continue to develop new products, enhance quality, and meet customer needs through both online and offline channels. Above all, quality and safety will remain our top priority.”

HonKuwa Pharmaceutical aims to further strengthen its position in China by meeting the demand for natural and effective pain relief solutions. Through continuous innovation and dedication to quality, HonKuwa is committed to improving the well-being of patients in China and beyond.

Founded in 2011, HonKuwa Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. has focused on the import and export of health foods, medical products, and medical devices. In 2018, the company established a research and development team to create innovative and safe products. In 2022, the company launched its new brand, HonKuwa Pharmaceutical, which gained traction in Japan and expanded into the Chinese market in 2023, with multiple products entering Kumada Pharmacy in Osaka, Japan.

Hashtag: #HonKuwa

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