GCCL is committed to customer success, emphasizing quality control at every stage—from analysis consulting and sample processing to data management—ensuring efficient clinical trials and research analyses.
SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan recently assessed the clinical sample analysis services industry and, based on its findings, recognizes Global Clinical Central Lab (GCCL) with the 2025 Asia-Pacific Customer Value Leadership Award. The company has rapidly established itself as a key player in central lab services, supporting the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries with robust expertise and commitment to quality. Specializing in multinational clinical trials across APAC, GCCL provides comprehensive sample analysis and bioanalytical services aligned with international standard protocols and rigorous quality control measures, ensuring consistent and reliable clinical trial data. Supported by a network of over 200 partners worldwide, GCCL’s end-to-end service model meets clients’ diverse needs across the entire clinical trial cycle, making it a trusted, innovative clinical research partner globally.
GCCL offers comprehensive in-house services that ensure rigorous quality control and deliver reliable clinical trial outcomes to support successful drug approvals. Unlike other global clinical lab organizations in the region that often outsource services (e.g., shipping samples for bio-analytical lab analysis to the United States, central lab samples to Singapore, and infectious materials to Biosafety Level 3 [BL3] facilities in other countries), GCCL operates as an “all-in-one lab for clinical trials in APAC.” By providing a bioanalytical lab, central lab, and BL3 facility in its South Korea-based facility, GCCL minimizes sample movement. This ensures high sample stability, reliable data, and significant cost savings through reduced logistics expenses. Additionally, owing to its comprehensive in-house capabilities and global quality standard logistics system, the company excels in processing time-sensitive samples (e.g., peripheral blood mononuclear cells) collected in South Korea. GCCL can collect, prepare, and freeze these samples in a record eight hours (compared to the 24 to 32 hours needed if samples are sent to other central labs in the region), maximizing sample integrity and data quality.
Unmesh Lal, research director at Frost & Sullivan, observes, “GCCL’s strategic approach of offering a comprehensive suite of services under one lab sets it apart in the competitive clinical sample analysis industry. With rigorous end-to-end quality control and ongoing enhancements to its service capabilities, GCCL strengthens its position as a leader in the APAC clinical sample analysis space.”
GCCL enhances quality assurance through advanced technology integration, effectively minimizing errors, improving precision, and ensuring data reliability. By implementing the BIO-RAD Evolis system and droplet digital polymerase chain reaction to automate manual tasks, GCCL ensures greater precision and consistency in bioanalytical testing, guaranteeing data accuracy and successful drug development. In addition, the company’s proprietary platform, G-HUB ensures comprehensive sample tracking and management and trial results recording, which enhances data reliability, transparency, and traceability.
By staying attuned to new drug development trends, customer feedback, and industry insights, GCCL helps customers expedite clinical trials and enhance operational efficiency. The company consistently prioritizes providing customer value over standardized approaches by customizing its solutions to align with each customer’s specific needs and objectives. It leverages strategic partnerships to connect customers with partner organizations, ensuring they address needs comprehensively and handle time-sensitive cases efficiently. It guarantees quality and enables effective urgent analyses and localized management.
“GCCL performs target segmentation according to the unique characteristics of each customer, enabling it to provide customized quotations and solutions. Ongoing enhancements to its service offerings, personalized support, and a steadfast commitment to each customer’s unique needs further reinforce GCCL’s dedication to excellence. This overall customer-first approach offers immense value to existing and new customers and solidifies GCCL’s reputation in the market,” adds Rubini Kamal, best practices research analyst at Frost & Sullivan. With its strong overall performance, Global Clinical Central Lab earns Frost & Sullivan’s 2025 Asia-Pacific Customer Value Leadership Award in the clinical sample analysis services industry.
Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has demonstrated excellence in implementing strategies that proactively create value for its customers with a focus on improving the return on the investment that customers make in its services or products. The award recognizes the company’s unique focus on augmenting the value that its customers receive, beyond simply good customer service, leading to improved customer retention and customer base expansion.
Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.
About Frost & Sullivan
For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, megatrends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion. Contact us: Start the discussion.
GCCL specializes in clinical trial sample analysis, providing comprehensive analytical services across all phases of clinical trials, from phase I to phase IV. With a diverse range of globally accredited analysis platforms, including GCLP certification and a dedicated sample logistics system, GCCL ensures high-quality, reliable results. Leveraging extensive expertise in clinical sample analysis, the company supports partners across Asia and beyond, delivering customized and compliant analytical solutions.
NEW YORK, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) issued its Unstoppable Africa 2024 Executive Summary today, shedding light on transformative strategies and solutions to reshape Africa’s financial narrative and accelerate economic growth.
The report highlights GABI’s call for the development of an inclusive financing model to address Africa’s unique challenges, focusing on concessional financing, attracting private sector investment and mobilizing domestic resources as essential mechanisms to unlock the continent’s potential. The report also stresses the importance of African institutions taking the lead in changing global risk perceptions and supporting innovative financial solutions to de-risk projects and secure long-term investments.
In its third year, GABI’s annual flagship event, Unstoppable Africa, has firmly established itself as the premier Africa-focused event in New York during the United Nations General Assembly high-level opening week, drawing interest and participation from global leaders.
Sanda Ojiambo, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the UN Global Compact said, “The GABI 2024 Executive Summary captures the transformative outcomes of the highly successful ‘Unstoppable Africa’ event, reflecting the groundbreaking solutions and impactful discussions that transpired. This event has played a crucial role in bringing together key stakeholders to discuss and align on these transformative strategies.
“By highlighting key initiatives and partnerships, this report underscores our commitment to positioning Africa at the center of global economic transformation. It is not just a reflection of our progress but a call to action for continued collaboration and ambition. We believe that by aligning with the aspirations of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063, we can unlock the full potential of Africa and contribute to a prosperous future for all.”
A Landmark Event
The “Unstoppable Africa” event was held on 25-26 September 2024 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. With over 4,000 participants, including 1,545 in person and 2,531 online, the event drew notable figures including six Heads of State and Government from Barbados, Côte D’Ivoire, DRC, Eswatini, the Netherlands, and Poland, along with 14 Government Ministers from 13 countries.
Key figures from the global private sector, top business leaders, and icons from the sports, music, and creative industries also spoke at and attended the conference.
Key Findings of the GABI 2024 Executive Summary
The report focuses on significant achievements in the energy sector, such as the Mission 300 initiative, which aims to provide clean energy access to 300 million Africans by 2030. It highlights successful examples from Togo, Mauritania, and Ghana, where distributed renewable energy solutions such as mini-grids are significantly expanding energy access to rural and underserved communities. The vital role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa’s energy transition is stressed, along with the need to empower these enterprises by bridging gaps in finance and climate action knowledge.
In the realm of digital transformation, the report accentuates the continent’s rapid technological adoption and youthful population as key drivers for economic growth. It focuses on comprehensive digital upskilling programs that are equipping African youth with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital economy. The report highlights the launch of Itana, Africa’s first Digital Economic Zone where global and Pan-African companies can incorporate online, operate remotely, and access the African talent pool and market.
The creative industries are identified as vital economic drivers. The report highlights the potential of Africa’s vibrant fashion, film, music, and entertainment sectors to deliver jobs, boost tourism, and build the African brand.
In the sports sector, the report states the need for modern infrastructure and the establishment of continental leagues to enhance economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural diplomacy. It spotlights initiatives like the Queens of the Continent Foundation and the NBA Africa Startup Accelerator Award, which are creating opportunities for young athletes and entrepreneurs.
Core Themes
Unstoppable Africa focused on five themes:
Energy Access and Transition: Public-private partnerships, policy frameworks, and blended finance were emphasized as keys to clean energy solutions.
Inclusive Growth and Trade: Discussions on reshaping Africa’s financial narrative stressed the need for private investment and the advancement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Digital Transformation: Bridging the digital divide and equipping youth with digital skills were identified as priorities. The progress of the UNDP Timbuktoo Initiative was celebrated.
Creative Industries: Africa’s cultural sectors were recognized as essential to both economic growth and global influence.
Sports: Calls for modern sports infrastructure and continental leagues marked their potential to drive economic and social impact.
GABI 2025
This year, GABI will convene the 4th edition of Unstoppable Africa on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly at Marriott Marquis Hotel in Mid-Town Manhattan, New York City on Sunday and Monday 21-22 September 2025. Once again, the convening will bring together the private sector, governments, policymakers, global and regional stakeholders to develop actionable frameworks for Africa’s development.
Additionally, GABI plans on hosting several GABI Bridges events throughout the year, including a side event at the Africa CEO Forum on May 12 -13 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. These engagements will provide focused discussions on specific topics, building up to the flagship forum in September.
Access the Unstoppable Africa 2024 Executive Summary Reporthere. For more information on the GABI and Unstoppable Africa 2024, visit https://gabi.unglobalcompact.org/
Starting in May, the iconic attraction will be closed for five months
DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Emaar has announced the temporary closure of Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest performing fountain, located at Downtown Dubai, to undergo a comprehensive upgrade and routine upkeep. The renovation will commence in May and is expected to take five months to complete.
Dubai Fountain Undergoes a Stunning Revamp: Temporary Closure Announced for Upgrade and Enhancement
For years, Dubai Fountain has been the heartbeat of Downtown Dubai, captivating millions of visitors with its synchronised water, music, and light performances. As a symbol of celebration and artistry, it has set the stage for unforgettable moments, applauded by audiences from all over the world.
This enhancement will ensure that the fountain continues to deliver breathtaking performances, elevating the visitor experience with even more mesmerising displays. The upgrades will include advanced technology, improved choreography, and an enhanced sound and lighting system, all designed to create an even more spectacular and immersive show. While the fountain takes a short break for these essential improvements, guests can still immerse themselves in the vibrant offerings of Downtown Dubai, from its world-class shopping and dining experiences at Dubai Mall to its stunning views of Burj Khalifa.
Commenting on the upgrade, Mr. Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar, stated: “Dubai Fountain is more than a spectacle—it is a reflection of Dubai’s soul, where art, innovation, and emotion come together in perfect harmony. As we elevate this iconic landmark, we continue to create experiences that connect people, inspire wonder, and stand the test of time.”
Emaar remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences, and is excited to unveil an even more spectacular Dubai Fountain upon its return. The fountain’s temporary closure will allow for the necessary improvements to preserve its iconic status as one of the world’s most celebrated water features, ensuring that it remains a cherished destination for years to come.
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TCL Electronics, a leading consumer electronics brand and the world’s top two TV brand, today showcased diverse flagship commercial display products and solutions at the Integrated Systems Europe (ISE 2025). Highlights included digital signage, CMS, IFPD, and FPD, designed to empower smart retail, smart offices, and smart education through TCL’s vertically integrated supply chain.
Advancing Digital Signage with the TM/TB Series
At ISE 2025, TCL unveiled its TM/TB series of digital signage, demonstrating advancements in picture quality, design, and software. Featuring 4K UHD resolution and 93% DCI-P3 color gamut, the TM/TB series delivers meticulous detail and lifelike visuals. Combined with TCL’s professional color calibration and auto gamma correction technology, the TM/TB series achieves a color accuracy of ΔE<1.2, rivaling professional-grade equipment. Enhanced brightness and contrast ratios create vivid images, while TCL's anti-glare panels ensure clear visuals in bright environments such as shopping malls, retail stores, airports, and train stations.
Advancing Digital Signage with the TM/TB Series
The TM/TB series also stands out with its ultra-slim design, featuring a body thickness of 27.9mm and a bezel width of 9.9mm. The sleek back panel includes integrated cable management channels, enabling seamless close-to-wall mounting. Available in sizes from 43″ to 85″, the series caters to both horizontal and vertical installations, making it ideal for retail, hospitality, corporate offices, and public transportation.
Equipped with TCL’s proprietary EShow CMS, the TM/TB series allows users to effortlessly manage devices via a cloud platform. It also offers exceptional compatibility with standardized APIs for easy third-party CMS integration. Powered by TCL Share+ software, the series supports wireless screen sharing from smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Enhancing Workspaces with Corporate Display Solutions
To address the needs of modern workplaces, TCL also introduced various innovative office solutions, including two concept models with a minimalist design featuring transparent materials and high-gloss metal stands. The models also feature vibrant colors delivering a strong visual impact, inspiring creativity and creating a high-tech environment.
Among the product offerings, the E and M Series flat panel displays were showcased. Available in sizes ranging from 55″ to 115″, the E and M Series deliver exceptional performance for presentations and virtual meetings.
Additionally, the flagship 115E60, the world’s largest QD-Mini LED Flat Panel Display, features QD-Mini LED technology with over 20,000 dimming zones and 97% DCI-P3 color gamut, delivering vibrant colors and sharp details. Certified by TÜV Rheinland for low blue light and flicker-free performance, the 115E60 effectively protects users’ eye health during extended use.
Other showcased IFPD products included a 92″ ultra-wide display, a 50″ rotatable PCAP display, and an all-in-one display with integrated audio and video capabilities, catering to office needs such as video conferencing, writing, and screen sharing.
Empowering Education with QD-Mini LED and AI Technology
As a leader in the smart display industry, TCL also showcased how QD-Mini LED technology elevates educational products. The 75Q2 PRO delivers a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, a dynamic contrast ratio of 500,000:1, and ΔE≤1 color accuracy. Furthermore, powered by Local Dimming technology, the product improves image precision while achieving up to 50% energy savings, making it both visually impressive and environmentally friendly.
TCL’s educational products, certified by Google EDLA, combine exceptional picture quality, eye protection, smooth touch control, and AI-enhanced clarity powered by a high-performance chipset and AI algorithms. Through innovative design and paper-based packaging, these products reduce weight by 15%, further aligning with TCL’s sustainability goals.
With its comprehensive manufacturing capabilities and global supply chain, TCL is well-positioned to meet diverse customer needs. From 23″ to 115″, TCL offers a full range of display solutions for retail, education, and corporate environments. By driving innovation and focusing on sustainability, TCL continues to deliver intelligent, efficient products that shape the future of commercial displays.
About TCL Electronics
TCL Electronics (1070.HK) is a leading consumer electronics brand and leader in the global television industry. TCL now operates in more than 160 markets around the world. The company specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics products ranging from TVs, audio, home appliances, mobile devices, smart glasses, commercial displays, and more. Visit the TCL website at https://www.tcl.com.
GALWAY, Ireland, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT), a global leader in healthcare technology, today announced that it will report financial results for its third quarter of fiscal year 2025 on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. A news release will be issued at approximately 5:45 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST) and will be available at https://news.medtronic.com. The news release will include summary financial information for the company’s third quarter of fiscal year 2025, which ended on Friday, January 24, 2025.
Medtronic will host a video webcast at 7:00 a.m. CST on February 18, 2025, to discuss results for its third quarter of full fiscal year 2025. The webcast can be accessed at https://investorrelations.medtronic.com.
Within 24 hours of the broadcast, a replay and transcript of the prepared remarks will be available by clicking on the Events link at https://investorrelations.medtronic.com.
Looking ahead, Medtronic plans to report its fourth quarter fiscal year 2025 results on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. For fiscal year 2026, Medtronic plans to report its first, second, third, and fourth quarter results on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, November 18, 2025, February 17, 2026, and Wednesday, May 20, 2026, respectively. For these events, confirmation and additional details will be provided closer to the specific event.
About Medtronic Bold thinking. Bolder actions. We are Medtronic. Medtronic plc, headquartered in Galway, Ireland, is the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission — to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life — unites a global team of 95,000+ passionate people across more than 150 countries. Our technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people second, and better outcomes for our world. In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary. For more information on Medtronic (NYSE: MDT), visit www.Medtronic.com and follow Medtronic on LinkedIn.
Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic’s periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.
Development of MLCC for LiDAR, a Key Device in Autonomous Driving
Samsung Electro-Mechanics expanding its range of Automotive Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors(MLCC) with the groundbreaking new 2.2uF high-capacity, high reliability and the most highest voltage product in a 1005 size
World’s first Automotive reliability qualified in this specification (AEC-Q200 qualified)
Samsung Electro-Mechanics to Actively Respond to Growing Markets through Core Material Technology and Manufacturing Know-hows
Strengthening the lineup of automotive products with high temperature, high voltage, and high reliability
SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Samsung Electro-Mechanics unveils on February 5th that world’s highest voltage and ultra-small MLCC in a 1005 size for Autonomous driving (CL05Y225KP66PN).
Samsung Electro-Mechanics Unveils World’s First MLCC for LiDAR Applications.
The newly developed MLCC has a capacity of 2.2uF (microfarads) and operates at a high voltage of 10V, with dimensions of 1005 size (1.0 mm wide and 0.5 mm long). This high voltage is approximately 60% higher than the previous standard of 6.3V, making it the world’s first qualified AEC-Q200, which is a critical reliability standard for automotive products in this specification.
This product providing suitable performance in LiDAR systems, which are one of the key devices for autonomous driving.
And our new product (CL05Y225KP66PN) is the first 10 voltage, 2.2uF MLCC capacitor available in 1005 size, the most suitable capacitor to support stable power supply and accurate signal transmission in various Automotive applications.
Generally, it is difficult for MLCCs to satisfy both voltage and capacitance characteristics simultaneously. To achieve high voltage, the dielectric used for storing electricity must be made thicker, which reduces the number of internal dielectric layers that can be stacked, making it difficult to increase capacitance. Samsung Electro-Mechanics has developed proprietary additives and a new manufacturing method that minimizes empty spaces within the dielectric, allowing stable operation even at high voltages.
Additionally, the newly developed MLCC has qualified AEC-Q200, the world’s first for a 2.2uF capacity and 10V high voltage in a 1005 size. This makes it suitable for various applications, including ADAS, body, chassis, and infotainment systems.
Executive Vice President Choi Jeremy, Head of Samsung Electro-Mechanics’ Component Solution Unit, stated, “The demand for high-performance and high-reliability MLCCs is increasing due to the electrification of vehicles,” adding, “We will strengthen our competitive edge in differentiated technology by securing key technologies in materials, equipment, and manufacturing processes for MLCCs, and actively respond to growth markets focusing on high-value products.”
Clarifai’s Full-Stack AI Platform Now Available to Arrow’s Global Distribution Network to Orchestrate Scalable AI Solutions Across Industries
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Clarifai, a global leader in AI and pioneer of the full-stack AI platform, today announced its strategic partnership with Arrow Electronics, Inc., (NYSE:ARW), a Fortune 500 technology distributor, to deliver flexible, end-to-end AI capabilities that help companies maximize business value from AI projects. This collaboration appoints Arrow as Clarifai’s official commercial distributor, accelerating AI adoption across industries by leveraging Arrow’s extensive global distribution network.
Together, Clarifai and Arrow will deliver customized, cutting-edge AI tools that enhance productivity, streamline operations, and drive innovation. By integrating Clarifai’s advanced AI models and platform into Arrow’s expansive ecosystem, businesses will gain seamless access to powerful AI-driven solutions for computer vision, natural language processing, and data labeling – compatible with any model, on any compute, and at any scale.
To further enhance AI performance and manage costs, companies can use Clarifai’s Compute Orchestration capabilities, announced in December, to optimize compute resources through a unified control plane with centralized governance across any cloud or on-premises environment.
“Arrow’s extensive expertise and market presence combined with Clarifai’s unmatched full-stack AI capabilities comes at a perfect time when companies are facing mounting pressure to show ROI on their AI projects and looking to avoid vendor lock-in,” said Jonathan Padgett, VP of Global Sales at Clarifai. “Whether a team has hit a roadblock in reaching full-scale production or wants to optimize performance, costs, and resources, we look forward to delivering tailored solutions that meet their unique needs.”
Arrow Electronics will distribute Clarifai’s suite of AI solutions across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and financial services. This partnership will streamline the procurement process, enabling organizations to harness AI technology more efficiently and drive competitive advantage.
“Clarifai’s pioneering AI platform is a game-changer in the commercial market,” said Ben Klay, President at Arrow Electronics. “They are the only platform today capable of building and orchestrating AI workloads across any hardware provider, cloud provider, on-premises, or air-gapped environment, so we are excited to offer and distribute their innovative solutions to customers looking to maximize their AI investments.”
With Clarifai’s full-stack AI platform, businesses can bring their unique AI workloads or customize them using powerful tools for data management, training, evaluation, and more—all while seamlessly orchestrating workloads across any compute. Together, Clarifai and Arrow seek to provide increased AI deployment across Arrow’s extensive customer base by creating operational efficiencies and accelerating time to market for AI-powered products and services.
More information on Clarifai solutions available through Arrow can be found here.
About Clarifai Clarifai is a global leader in AI and the pioneer of the full-stack AI platform that helps organizations, teams, and developers build, deploy, and operationalize AI at scale. Clarifai’s cutting-edge AI platform supports today’s modern AI technologies like Large Language Models (LLMs), Large Vision Models (LVMs), Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), automated data labeling, high-volume production inference, and more. Founded in 2013, Clarifai is available in cloud, on-premises, or hybrid environments and has been used to build more than 1.5 million AI models with more than 400,000 users in 170 countries. Learn more at www.clarifai.com.
For more information or media requests, contact: pr@clarifai.com.
About Arrow Electronics Arrow Electronics is a global provider of technology solutions, helping businesses innovate, design, and deliver cutting-edge products and services. With a presence in over 80 countries, Arrow connects customers with the right technology to solve complex challenges. Learn more at www.arrow.com.
Successful Event Draws 200,000 Global Visitors with Hong Kong’s Local Creativity
29 January to 2 February 2025: 38 Featured Creations & 16 Visiting Hong Kong Comics Artists/ Illustrators
Watch drawing demonstrations by Hong Kong comics artists in real-time at one of the top three major overseas comics festivals in the world
February to May 2025: All the participating artists will be invited to share their exchange experiences and achievements with Hong Kong creators and readers
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 February 2025 – Reading comics is like embarking on a journey with wonders. Comics artists invite readers to step into an intricate realm where imagination and creativity know no bounds, and where scripts and visual elements harmoniously intertwine to weave fantastic stories that transcend words. ‘Comics made in Hong Kong’ are known for their rich variety of artistic styles and whimsical, captivating narratives. Hong Kong original comics are therefore well-liked by comics enthusiasts both locally and overseas.
Hong Kong Arts Centre team, Hong Kong Comics and Animation Federation team, and Hong Kong Comics Artists & Illustrators at the 52nd Angoulême Internatinal Comics Festival
【 Hong Kong Arts Centre (Comix Home Base) 】, with sponsorship from the 【Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region】, is once again partnering with the【Hong Kong Comics and Animation Federation】 to participate in the 52nd edition of the Angoulême International Festival in 2025. A remarkable and wonderful collection of 38 local mid-to-full-length comic and picture book titles has been showcased to represent Hong Kong. The showcased comics this time span various genres, ranging from action and adventure to sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and heart-warming, encompassing a wide spectrum of creative expressions and infinite possibilities. Some of the participating comic artists and illustrators recently received several international awards.
The Angoulême International Comics Festival is one of the most prestigious events in the European history. Crowds of visitors, comics enthusiasts of all ages and professions, flock to this annually. The 38 featured creations were selected from ‘The 1st to 3rd Hong Kong Comics Support Programme Book Series’ and ‘GO! Illustrators Series – The 1st Hong Kong Picture Book Illustrators at International Book Fairs Promotion Scheme Series.’ Through this large-scale overseas exchange programme, the aim is to further highlight Hong Kong comics of high quality, meanwhile, to enhance the global recognition of local creators.
As the title suggests, the project aims to bring ‘waves of whimsical words’ abroad, allowing readers and practitioners from all over the world to explore the fascination of Hong Kong comics. During this event, we successfully attracted 200,000 visitors worldwide with Hong Kong’s local creativity.In addition, we actively sought overseas licensing opportunities in anticipation of more Hong Kong comics being translated into multiple languages and published afterwards. A wider readership with different linguistic and cultural backgrounds could see the infinite possibilities of Hong Kong’s creativity.
Reaffirming the commitment to promoting local talents and creativity globally, Hong Kong Arts Centre has led 16 talented Hong Kong artists to participate in the festival in person. They engaged in live-drawing demonstrations, book signing sessions, and sharing, meeting audience and comics professionals from all over the world.
The attendee from abroad expressed that he personally admires Hong Kong comic artist Shui-pan Wong. Meeting him in person in France this time, he was delighted to be able to purchase all of his books and obtain his autograph.
Hong Kong comic artist Bonnie Pang pointed out that Hong Kong comics often face challenges in reaching foreign readers or publishers, especially due to the language barrier with Chinese comics. This year, we made a new attempt by utilizing AI technology to create a French video for each invited creator, allowing them to personally introduce their works and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Bonnie believes, “This event has been most helpful to Hong Kong comic artists by directly bringing everyone’s works to overseas markets, reaching more foreign readers. The licensing market and various exchange activities promote collaboration opportunities. Additionally, experiencing the atmosphere of the comic festival in person and seeing a large number of comics in different styles broadens our horizons and gives us more inspiration and creative motivation.”
Hong Kong comic artist Pen SO, who participated in the exhibition, believes that one of the challenges Hong Kong comic artists face when going international is the issue of networking. This event could help them secure publishing opportunities, establish connections, and provide creative inspiration. Additionally, being sponsored by CCIDA for this event can lead Hong Kong comics towards the international market. He stated, “Although the rise of digital media has made it easier for our works to be exported overseas, publishers not only consider popularity, fame, and quality of work, but also the credibility of the artist. Artists need to know if foreign publishers are reliable. Therefore, the Hong Kong Arts Centre acts as an intermediary, helping us organize and resolve these issues.”
In addition to the popular booth at the Asian comics pavilion (Manga City) where we could engage with a large group of readers, the booth at the International Rights & Licensing Market offered a valuable opportunity for us to connect with international publishers and production houses of comic books and related art forms. This actively contributes to the development of Hong Kong comics.
Comics fans in Hong Kong could also follow comics artists’ social media platforms to relive their on-site live drawing demonstrations, and feel the zest of of the world’s third-largest comic festival!
During February and May 2025, all the participating artists will be invited to share their exchange experiences and achievements with Hong Kong creators and readers. Professionals in the comics industry from other countries will be invited to introduce the trend of comics and other related creations in Europe and the United States. This initiative seeks to help Hong Kong creative talents expand their network and shine in the world arena!
Waves of Whimsical Words
Hong Kong Comics @The 52nd Angouleme International Comics Festival 2025 in France
Organiser: Hong Kong Arts Centre (Comix Home Base)
Co-organiser: Hong Kong Comics and Animation Federation
Lead Sponsor: Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
Supporter: Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels
In Association with: Innovative Entrepreneur Association, Angoulême International Comics Festival
Special Thanks: La Boîte à Bulles, Editions Paquet, Asian District éditions
2023/24 & 2024/25 The Arts Talents Internship Matching Programme is supported by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council.
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Dates: 29.01. – 02.02.2025 Venue: Angoulême International Comics Festival, France
Venue: Manga City (Booth No. MC19/ Rue Jean Didelon)
Venue: International Rights & Licensing Market(Booth No. RL47/ Rue des Frères Lumières) Dates: 29.01-01.02.2025 (Wed-Sat) Time: 1000-1800
Festival admission ticket required
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16 Visiting Hong Kong Comics Artists/ Illustrators:
● Amy CHAI ● ARYU ● Kuma CHAN ● Karman CHIU ● CHIYA ● HIN ● ISATISSE ● Hei-lun IU ● Chi-kit KWONG ● Chi-tak LI ● Ben LIU ● Bonnie PANG ● Enoch SIN ● Pen SO ● WAI ON ● Shui-pan WONG
38 Featured Creations
The 1st to 3rd Hong Kong Comics Support Programme Book Series
● ARYU Lost in Red ● Cheuk-ka CHAN Chungyuan ● Kuma CHAN That Summer, The Glowing Monkey That Only I Could See ● Ling CHAU My Dear Patient No.44 ● Chiu-lok CHEUNG In-between Crevices ● CHIYA Blend Dark and Light ● FCP La Revanche ● HIN Lullaby of the Untamed ● Chi-man HO Dai Fu ● Hei-lun IU Morning, Sean ● KAI Graffiti Sorcerer ● Chi-kit KWONG Indigo and The Architect’s Epiphany (French Edition) ● Chi-tak LI Heroes ● Ben LIU Down to Earth Hugo ● Linus LIU Cat Mask Boy (French Edition) ● LONHEI Étranger ● LOSZEHAHA The Shining Moment ● Tin-kit MARK MCF ● Bonnie PANG Chronos Express ● ROKU SAKAKI Q. ● SANDYPIG A Song of Freedom ● Enoch SIN God Bless You ● Pen SO Dali Libreria ● Sineko SO What the Muck: The End of the World ● Bobby TANG Man in The Box ● Taku TANG Collapse ● Three TO Soul People Deacon ● Man TSANG The Zeros (French Edition) ● Tai-po TSUI Soul in the Figure ● WAI ON Fear Of the Dark ● Jay WONG Tides of Time ● Shui-pan WONG Time Girl ● YIP WONG Phenomenon ● Yuen-wong YU Shepherd Café
GO! Illustrators Series – The 1st Hong Kong Picture Book Illustrators at International Book Fairs Promotion Scheme Series
● Amy CHAI A Butterfly that Lives 14 Days ● Karman CHIU Tears ● ISATISSE Just Close Your Eyes
Events
Presented by Hong Kong Arts Centre CHB
Live Drawing Demonstrations & Book Signing Sessions Venue: Manga City (Booth No. MC 19)
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the Organiser
Hong Kong Arts Centre
Art for Passion, Art for Life, Art for All
Since 1977, the Hong Kong Arts Centre (HKAC) has been a platform for nurturing and supporting artists, and infusing art into everyday life. Its unique arts and educational programmes aim to make the arts accessible for all. The HKAC believes in the transformational power of art for people from all walks of life. Established more than four decades ago, the HKAC bring art to the people of Hong Kong – by presenting programmes for visual arts, performing arts, moving images and media arts, comics and animation. Other areas also cover arts education, conferences, festivals, public art and community projects, all done with the vision and mission of engaging and inspiring creativity in the Hong Kong community.
In 2000, HKAC founded its educational arm, Hong Kong Art School (HKAS). The HKAS provides award-bearing programmes to nurture artists and art practitioners, as well as short enrichment courses for the general public. The HKAC aspires to engage everyone in the community to become an active participant in the arts – as an enthusiast, an artist or a patron.
Let’s continue to embrace ‘Art for Passion, Art for Life, Art for All’, and share the inspiration.
Comics and animation are important local pop culture and artistic creations. Hong Kong Arts Centre (HKAC) has been dedicated to planning and organising diverse and unique activities to promote the arts and culture of comics and animation to the local community and abroad.
Since 2006, HKAC curated Comix Home Base project (CHB), and has been working closely with comics artists, animators, industry practitioners and various government departments to promote local works. Over 800 ani-com-related events are hosted, such as exhibitions, talks, workshops, performances, publications, screenings, public arts, etc.
In recent years, Comix Home Base has continued to proactively orchestrate cross-media collaborations and look for crossovers between comics and different media like public art, movie, dance, intangible cultural heritage, martial arts etc., expanding the creative space for comix. Outside Hong Kong, China, the footprints of Comix Home Base can be found overseas in France, Belgium, Britain, Germany, Finland, Sweden, Japan, Mainland China, Taiwan, China, Singapore, Korea, Russia, Indonesia and Portugal etc. This has facilitated the involvement of numerous Hong Kong comics artists in international collaboration projects. Also, local comics have been successfully published in different foreign versions in European countries and the United States, increasing the international recognition of local comics and animation artists.
Comix Home Base is fully committed to creating a platform for the art of Hong Kong anime and comics to flourish and keep elevating comics that are ‘made in Hong Kong’ to the global stage with stakeholders.
Hong Kong Comics and Animation Federation Limited was founded in 1999, with the aims to: 1. Unite comics and animation industry, promotion of comics & animation culture; 2. Strengthen the positive awareness of the community members on comics and animation; 3. Link around the world comics & animation industry; and 4. Nurture local comics and animation talent.
Official website:www.hkcaf.hk | Facebook: hkcaf.hk
HK Comics Support Programme
Under the sponsorship of the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Hong Kong Animation and Comics Federation has been organising the HK Comics Support Programme (HKCSP) since 2021, which will enter into the fourth edition by January 2025.
The goal of HKCSP is to cultivate comics artists in Hong Kong and support Hong Kong comics enterprises. It provides financial assistance for the creation and promotion of new original comics (subsidised comics), alongside comprehensive support, including training seminars, industry experts’ guidance, and a series of promotional activities, to the participating comics enterprises and their comics artists with a view to showcasing the strength of Hong Kong’s comics. HKCSP also participates in Hong Kong and overseas exhibitions to increase the exposure of the participating comics artists and their subsidised comics in both Hong Kong and international markets, thereby opening up more business opportunities for them.
Despite the short history of HKCSP, it has already become a significant event in the industry with remarkable results in various aspects: 1. Bringing new vitality to Hong Kong comics: A total of 47 original comics works with diverse themes and styles have been released under the 1st to 3rd HKCSP, bringing new vitality to the comic industry. 2. Expanding overseas markets for Hong Kong comics: The subsidised comics are not only launched in the Hong Kong market, but some of which have been successfully licensed in overseas markets for translation into foreign languages, including French, Italian, Spanish, Ukrainian, English, and Malay, etc., for sale in relevant markets. 3. International recognition of the works: The subsidised comics have received multiple international awards, including the Japan International Manga Award and the BolognaRagazzi Awards in Italy, gaining international acclaim.
HKCSP will continue to provide a platform for the development of Hong Kong’s comics industry by fostering the creation and publication of more original comics in Hong Kong.
Official website:www.hkcsp.hk | Facebook: 港漫動力– 香港漫畫支援計劃| Instagram: hk_comics_support
Innovative Entrepreneur Association
Innovative Entrepreneur Association was established in 2007 and is dedicated in promoting various creative entrepreneurship events, advocating the dynamic of ‘innovative entrepreneurship’, and providing business education. The collaboration with the government and other organisations enables aspiring entrepreneurs to share experiences and business strategies. The association accommodates entrepreneurs in facing challenges and offers advice to enhance Hong Kong’s competitiveness and thus fulfilling its social responsibility.
Go! Illustrators–Hong Kong Picture Book Illustrators at International Book Fairs Promotion Scheme
Organised by Innovative Entrepreneur Association (IEA) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), Go! Illustrators– Hong Kong Picture Book Illustrators at International Book Fairs Promotion Scheme aims to nurture talented picture book illustrators in Hong Kong by providing them with mentoring support in content creation, licensing and marketing, as well as assisting them to join reputable book fairs including Bologna Children’s Book Fair and Beijing International Book Fair for them to explore external markets.
Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)
The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan. CCIDA sponsors Hong Kong Comics and Animation Federation to organise HK Comics Support Programme and other projects to promote Hong Kong’s animations and comics.
Disclaimer: The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.