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HKSH Medical Group Signed Memorandum of Understanding with Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenzhen To Advance Precision Proton Therapy, Furthering the Healthy China Initiative

HONG KONG, Dec. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In alignment with the national framework for the advancement of proton therapy, facilitated by the National Cancer Center, HKSH Medical Group (“HKSH”) and Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenzhen (“Shenzhen Cancer Hospital”) signed a memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) on 11 December 2025. The MOU was signed by Dr. Walton LI, Chief Executive Officer of HKSH Medical Group and Medical Superintendent of Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, and Professor WANG Luhua, Director of Shenzhen Cancer Hospital. The signing was witnessed by Mr. Wyman LI, Chief Operating Officer of HKSH Medical Group and Board Member of Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, and Professor HE Jie, Director of the National Cancer Center and Director of the Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. This collaboration aims to enhance collaborative efforts in clinical applications of proton therapy, specialist training, and cancer management research, reinforcing HKSH’s collaboration with the National Cancer Center to address the heightened demand for proton therapy nationwide and to advance collective anti-cancer initiatives.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Dr. Walton LI, Chief Executive Officer of HKSH Medical Group and Medical Superintendent of Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital (right in front row) and Professor WANG Luhua, Director of Shenzhen Cancer Hospital (left in front row), with Mr. Wyman LI, Chief Operating Officer of HKSH Medical Group and Director of Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital (right in back row), Professor HE Jie, Director of the National Cancer Center and Director of the Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (middle in back row)  and Director General of the Public Hygiene and Health Commission of Shenzhen Municipality, Ms. WU Hongyan (left in back row) as witnesses.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Dr. Walton LI, Chief Executive Officer of HKSH Medical Group and Medical Superintendent of Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital (right in front row) and Professor WANG Luhua, Director of Shenzhen Cancer Hospital (left in front row), with Mr. Wyman LI, Chief Operating Officer of HKSH Medical Group and Director of Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital (right in back row), Professor HE Jie, Director of the National Cancer Center and Director of the Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (middle in back row) and Director General of the Public Hygiene and Health Commission of Shenzhen Municipality, Ms. WU Hongyan (left in back row) as witnesses.

 

Distinguished guests at the MOU Signing Ceremony between HKSH Medical Group and Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy Medical Sciences, Shenzhen.
Distinguished guests at the MOU Signing Ceremony between HKSH Medical Group and Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy Medical Sciences, Shenzhen.

A primary objective of the “Healthy China 2030” plan is to improve survival rates for cancer patients. High-precision proton therapy, which minimises adverse side effects, has emerged as a pivotal approach for achieving the goal. In June 2025, HKSH, in collaboration with the National Cancer Center and the Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, co-hosted the Proton Therapy Joint Training Programme in Beijing. HKSH inaugurated a ten-month HKSH Proton Training Programme in August, and successfully organised the annual conference of Asia-Oceania Particle Therapy Cooperative Group in November, convening global leaders in proton therapy to advance the field of precision cancer treatment. HKSH is committed to supporting the National Cancer Center in consistently adhering to the strategic directives of “Healthy China 2030,” and will contribute to establishing a national cancer prevention and control network.

During the signing ceremony, Dr. Walton LI remarked: “As the first proton therapy centre in the Greater Bay Area and the sole facility in Hong Kong, HKSH not only meets the significant local and regional demand for precise cancer treatment but also draws upon its extensive clinical and talent training experience, serving as a vital reference for the nation’s advancement of proton therapy. HKSH is dedicated to training leading medical professionals and promoting high-level research initiatives. The Shenzhen Cancer Hospital, as a key institution of the National Cancer Center in Southern Branch, will enhance our interdisciplinary collaboration and international engagement. Through innovation and comprehensive cooperation, we are committed to delivering treatment outcomes for our patients.”

Professor HE Jie commented, “This cooperation represents a solid implementation of the ‘Healthy China’ strategy. By integrating high-quality medical resources from Shenzhen and Hong Kong, we are establishing an internationally aligned platform for cancer prevention and treatment. It holds profound significance, serving as a ‘Greater Bay Area model’ for constructing a national cancer prevention and treatment system.”

The collaboration between HKSH and Shenzhen Cancer Hospital signifies a substantial initiative aimed at deepening the synergy of high-quality medical resources across both regions. Mr. Wyman LI emphasised, “Through this collaboration, we will facilitate an in-depth integration of healthcare management, talent development, research innovation, and technical exchange. This synergy not only accelerates the reciprocal flow of advanced cancer treatment technologies and management practices but also equips patients from both regions with precision medical services that adhere to international standards, working collectively to enhance the capabilities of cancer prevention and treatment in the Greater Bay Area and throughout the nation.”

Professor WANG Luhua stated, “As the southern branch of the National Cancer Center, our mission is to be rooted in Shenzhen, extend our reach across South China, connect with Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, and radiate towards Southeast Asia. Collaborating with HKSH—an institution with a century-long legacy—will facilitate deep complementary collaboration in clinical methodologies, research innovation, talent cultivation, and healthcare management, jointly enhancing regional capabilities in comprehensive cancer prevention and treatment.”

The MOU is established as a foundation for both parties to engage in short-term and long-term collaborations, share best practices in healthcare, training management, and the cultivation of medical talent, and jointly enhance and promote cancer care services to meet international standards. Furthermore, they will extend mutual assistance and share expertise in advanced cancer treatment protocols, clinical trials for pharmaceuticals, and high-end medical services.

Empowering Website Operations Across ASEAN with AI and Teamwork

Japan’s MONJI+—A WebOps Enablement Platform Inspired by Voices from 77 Countries—Launches Its English Edition


OSAKA, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 December 2025 – ALAKI Inc., celebrating its 15th anniversary, has officially launched the English edition of MONJI+, an evolution of its 2018-born feedback tool MONJI β, now reimagined as a comprehensive WebOps Enablement Platform.

MONJI image

Alongside its free plan, available indefinitely, MONJI+ begins its full-scale expansion into the ASEAN market, helping teams elevate their website operations. In addition, a free Academic Edition is now offered to educational institutions to foster the next generation of web and IT talent.

▶️ Learn more about MONJI+

A Platform Born from 77 Countries of Real-World Insight

Since its launch in Japan in 2018, MONJI β has been adopted by web agencies, corporations, and advertising firms worldwide—across 77 countries and regions—streamlining feedback workflows for website management and development.

In everyday website operations, teams often face:

  • Feedback scattered across tools and channels
  • Miscommunication between internal teams and agencies
  • Unclear priorities that fail to drive results
  • Knowledge loss when members change
  • Valuable learnings buried and forgotten

MONJI+ connects creation, publishing, maintenance, and optimization into a single workflow—eliminating silos and enabling all members to move forward toward shared goals.

▶️ See how MONJI+ transforms your workflow

Since its official launch in Japan in January 2025, MONJI+ has rapidly spread among enterprises and educational institutions. It is increasingly adopted as a practical standard among agencies and in-house teams, improving productivity and measurable outcomes.

Responding to Global Voices – Official Launch of the English Edition

During forums and seminars held alongside the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, ALAKI engaged with government representatives and industry leaders from around the world.

The feedback was clear: inefficiencies in website operations, lack of improvement cycles, and a shortage of web marketing expertise are universal challenges. But one issue stood out above all—the shortage of skilled web and IT professionals.

Some governments even requested that MONJI+ contribute to national web/IT talent development, not just productivity gains. Following the Expo, inquiries from multiple countries confirmed the demand, prompting the official release of the English edition of MONJI+.

Confidence from SWITCH 2025, and a Vision for What’s Next

As part of its ASEAN expansion, ALAKI visited SWITCH 2025 (Singapore Week of Innovation & Technology), held from October 29–31. Through dialogues with government agencies, corporations, startups, and academic institutions, the importance of website operations productivity and digital talent development was reaffirmed.

Insights from leading ASEAN web and IT innovators will continue to shape the evolution of MONJI+.

Key Benefits of MONJI+

Eliminate inefficiencies and dependency on individuals—enhancing both productivity and performance in website operations.

  • Workflow Efficiency: Centralize feedback and progress tracking to prevent oversights
  • Error Reduction: Detect typos automatically with AI proofreading
  • Results-Oriented: Integration with analytics tools helps identify improvement areas instantly
  • Team Collaboration: Share real-time updates across internal and external members
  • Knowledge Building: Use the Wiki feature to retain expertise and reduce training costs

▶️ Explore MONJI+ features

The Future of “Agentic WebOps” — Powered by Data and AI

MONJI+ evolves beyond a simple management tool—it becomes an AI-driven partner that learns from operational data to support human decision-making and creativity.

Our vision: a human-in-the-loop “Agentic WebOps” environment that helps teams achieve outcomes with AI-assisted decision support.

Available AI Features:

  • AI typo and error detection for feedback
  • AI chatbot assistance

Upcoming AI Features (Examples):

  • Content suggestion and creation
  • Feedback trend analysis and improvement recommendations
  • Design assistance
  • Webpage performance analysis and enhancement
Customer Success Stories
  • Global Marketing Agency (Singapore): “Sharing the same interface greatly improved collaboration across our international offices.”
  • Web Production Agency (Japan): “Centralized feedback management accelerated delivery times by roughly 30%.”
  • E-commerce Company (Japan): “By linking with an analytics tool, we identified key improvement areas instantly—our conversion rate increased by over 20%.”
  • Recruitment Platform (Japan): “With AI detecting typos automatically, our job listing checks became faster and more reliable.”
Vision Video – ‘Pride and Hope for the Web Industry’

Discover how MONJI+ envisions the future of website operations.

▶️ Watch the Vision Video

CEO’s Comment

“Website operations shouldn’t be about chasing scattered messages—it should be about generating results that matter. With MONJI+, we unify feedback, workflow, and analytics, while AI suggests the next strategic move. Our mission is to help ASEAN teams reach outcomes faster and more reliably.”

Yuji Yamauchi, Founder & CEO, ALAKI Inc.

Getting Started

Getting started is easy, with no credit card required. MONJI+ aims to be the shared foundation for website operations, accessible to everyone.

  • Forever-Free Plan: Access essential functions without time limits
  • 30-Day Free Trial: Experience all features in a live environment

▶️ Start your free 30-day trial now

Free “Academic Edition” for Educational Institutions

To empower the next generation of web and IT professionals, MONJI+ offers an Academic Edition free of charge to universities, vocational schools, and online programs. Students and educators can experience real-world website operations, gain practical skills, and collaborate through shared projects.

▶️ Learn more about the Academic Edition

Hashtag: #MONJI+

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

China’s tourism market reshaped by Hainan’s customs shift

BEIJING, Dec. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from chinadaily.com.cn:

Hainan Pavilion at the CITM 2025. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Hainan Pavilion at the CITM 2025. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

China launched island-wide special customs operations on Dec 18 in the Hainan Free Trade Port, the world’s largest FTP by area, as global tourism leaders gathered on the island — a move that industry insiders believe could reshape tourism cooperation, investment and visitor flows in the coming years.

The change in a package of policies coincided with the opening of the China International Travel Mart 2025 in Haikou, the capital of Hainan province, on Dec 19.

The three-day fair has attracted more than 1,000 business operators and representatives from 101 countries and regions, a record level of participation that organizers say reflects growing international interest in the island province.

Industry participants say the expected surge in cooperation is underpinned by Hainan’s entry policies, which include visa-free access for travelers from 86 countries, as well as expanded visa-waiver arrangements for cruise passengers and tour groups. Combined with the new customs operations, these measures are positioning the island as a platform for joint tourism ventures.

Thailand, the guest of honor at this year’s travel mart, also highlighted the broader implications of the shift in a range of policies. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said that “two-way tourism” would be central to future growth, suggesting that Hainan’s development could support more balanced tourist flows and shared destination marketing.

Hainan’s customs operations make it easier for us to engage directly with the Chinese market,” said Jan Vislocky of Slovakia’s Vislocky Travel.

Inbound travel to Hainan has surged since Dec 18. Data from travel platform Qunar shows that international flight bookings to Haikou from this Christmas through the 2026 Spring Festival holiday have increased by more than 40 percent compared to the previous year.

Visitors are already experiencing the effects. Vika Karenina, a tourist from Russia, said the wide range of international payment options and the absence of a tax refund process made her shopping at Sanya’s duty free city seamless.

“I’ve really enjoyed the sun and beach on this visit to Sanya, and the timing was perfect to experience duty-free shopping — it was the most delightful surprise of my trip,” Karenina said on Dec 18 at Sanya International Duty Free Complex.

“The whole shopping experience was as smooth as clearing customs,” she said. “Next time, I’m bringing my family.”

For more information, please click https://bit.ly/4j04O5A

Watsons Water Unveils First-Ever AI-Designed Series Blends in Innovative Tech & Hong Kong Landmarks

HONG KONG, Dec. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With the AI trend surging forward, Watsons Water proudly announces the launch of its first AI-designed “Hong Kong Landmark” Series. This limited artistic series offers consumers a brand-new experience that seamlessly blends technology, art aesthetics, and the unique charm of Hong Kong. It marks the first time Watsons Water has utilized Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to generate product packaging designs. Not only it aims to accurately capture new market trends and successfully create buzz, it also represents a breakthrough for the brand in the field of packaging design.

Pioneering AI-Generated Design Creates Market Buzz

Watsons Water is deeply aware of the market’s attention to innovation and AI technology, and has taken the lead in integrating artificial intelligence into its product design. The series combines the limitless creativity of AI with distinct Hong Kong cultural elements. Through a series of meticulously crafted visuals, the series aims to resonate with consumers and ignite their desire to collect. This is more than just a bottle of water; it is the perfect fusion of AI art and the spirit of Hong Kong.

Three Iconic Hong Kong Landmarks Showcase the City’s Diverse Charm

The “AI-Designed Hong Kong Landmark” series features three distinct designs, each portraying one of Hong Kong’s most representative landmarks. Using AI technology, these locations are reinterpreted with brilliant colours and rich details, showcasing the city’s multifaceted appeal:

Victoria Harbour

The design captures the city’s brilliant lights, where towering skyscrapers and iconic ferries collectively form a vibrant, flowing picture, symbolizing Hong Kong’s prosperity and dynamism.

The Peak & Lion Rock

This design perfectly combines the mountaintop views, featuring majestic Lion Rock and the Peak Tram to embody the unique harmony between Hong Kong’s urban and natural environments.

Big Buddha & Tsz Shan Monastery 

The packaging highlights the feature of Hong Kong’s multi-religious society, juxtaposing the solemn Big Buddha with the tranquil Tsz Shan Monastery, set against a backdrop of festive fireworks to add peace and blessing to the holiday season.

Limited Edition Series | Join Activation to Win Supermarket Vouchers

The “AI-Designed Hong Kong” Commemorative Packaging is available for Watsons Water products in 430mL and 800mL sizes. It will be gradually launched at major retail outlets during the Christmas and New Year period and is a limited-edition release. Whether for holiday gifting, entertaining guests, or personal collection, this series is the best medium to showcase the charm of Hong Kong to the world.

Watsons Water looks forward to bringing a fresh feeling to the market through this innovative attempt and sincerely invites all citizens and tourists to witness how AI technology can infuse daily life with artistic flair. Watsons Water will also launch an “WE LOVE HK” themed social campaign in December, where winners will have the chance to win a $500 supermarket voucher. Campaign details will be announced on our social media platforms, so stay tuned!

About Watsons Water

Watsons Water has been producing distilled water for the people of Hong Kong since 1903. Watsons Water has consistently upheld the social vision of “We Care,” constantly striving for innovation to ensure you can enjoy 100% pure quality distilled water. Watsons Water is widely popular in Hong Kong SAR, mainland China, and even Southeast Asia. Its production plants are located in places like Hong Kong and Guangzhou, making it one of the world’s largest distilled water manufacturers, providing the purest distilled water to countries and regions such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Taiwan region.

About A.S. Watson Group

A.S. Watson Group was founded in 1841 and is rooted in Asia. It is one of the world’s oldest and most highly recognized retailers. The Group currently operates over 16,900 stores across 12 brands in 30 markets. It employs approximately 130,000 people globally, making A.S. Watson Group the world’s largest international health and beauty retailer.

The Group’s turnover for the 2024 fiscal year exceeded US$24 billion. Annually, we serve over 6 billion customers through our O+O (Offline plus Online) platform, bringing them a seamless offline and online retail experience.

In Hong Kong, our four retail brands operate a combined total of over 500 stores. These include Watsons, PARKnSHOP, Fortress, and Watson’s Wine Cellar. The Group also manufactures and distributes quality drinking water, Watsons Water, as well as Mr. Juicy and Sunkist juice drinks.

A.S. Watson Group is a member of the multinational conglomerate CK Hutchison Holdings Limited. CK Hutchison’s business spans over 50 countries, operating four core businesses: ports and related services, retail, infrastructure, and telecommunications.

For more details, please visit www.aswatson.com/our-company/o-and-o-strategy/.
More High-Res Photo: https://shorturl.at/cBh6H

– End –

Pacific Bridge Media and Consulting marks 15 years of international media and video production from Japan

Tokyo-based communications firm celebrates 15 years supporting global organizations with multilingual storytelling, video production, and cross-border communications

TOKYO, Dec. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pacific Bridge Media and Consulting, Inc. (PBMC), a Tokyo-based multilingual media and communications firm, marks its 15th anniversary this year, celebrating a decade and a half of supporting global organizations with international storytelling, video production, and cross-border communications from Japan.


Founded in 2010 by international journalist Toshi Maeda, PBMC was established with the mission to connect the world with trusted content and help realize a richer and more equitable society. With a strong on-the-ground presence in Japan and an international perspective rooted in journalism, PBMC has become a trusted partner for over 15 years, producing high-quality content for a wide range of clients seeking local production expertise combined with global communication standards.

Its work includes a broad range of creative and communications services, including interviews, video messages, promotional and documentary videos, computer graphics, multilingual editorial content, and event-related media production. The company works closely with clients on a case-by-case basis, offering flexible support for both quick-turnaround projects and longer-term, strategic content initiatives that emphasize storytelling, clarity, and cross-cultural relevance.

These services are used by major Japanese corporations, leading international companies, Japanese government ministries and agencies, foreign government entities and embassies, as well as influential media outlets, news organizations, broadcast networks, and professional video production firms in Japan and overseas. Through these partnerships, PBMC has built a strong track record in delivering high-quality, multilingual content and strategic communications that meet the needs of both domestic and global audiences.

As PBMC enters its next chapter, the company continues to evolve alongside the changing media and communications landscape, strengthening its end-to-end support model and expanding both production and consulting capabilities. It has expanded its services to include global press release creation and distribution, international media relations support, and media training for executives and spokespeople. These services are designed to help organizations communicate more effectively with international media, investors, and stakeholders, while managing complex cross-border narratives with accuracy and confidence.

Comment from Toshi Maeda, CEO of Pacific Bridge Media and Consulting:

“Pacific Bridge Media & Consulting began 15 years ago as a small team producing news content for international media. Since then, we have expanded our client base to include a wide range of companies and government agencies, providing global content strategies and storytelling that communicate real value to audiences around the world.

In recent years, our work has grown beyond content production alone. We now deliver a full suite of media services – from bilingual press conferences and cross-border events to global PR support and media training – helping clients connect more effectively across languages and markets.

Even as our services broaden, our core values remain unchanged. Guided by our mission to connect the world with trusted content, our global team is committed to delivering reliable, first-hand information—stories we report ourselves—at a time when unverified content spreads easily online. We will continue bridging Japan and the world by sharing primary information across linguistic and cultural boundaries.”

PBMC 15th anniversary video: https://pacificbridge.jp/en/work/pbmc-15th-anniversary-documentary/

About Pacific Bridge Media and Consulting, Inc. (PBMC)

Founded in 2010 by international journalist Toshi Maeda, Pacific Bridge Media and Consulting, Inc. (PBMC) is a multilingual media and communications company guided by the mission to “connect the world with trusted content and help realize a richer and more equitable society.”

PBMC specializes in creating and delivering global-ready content that combines journalism, video production, language expertise, and technology. The company provides end-to-end support for organizations seeking to communicate internationally, including content planning and production, multilingual storytelling, and cross-border communication strategy.

With a strong track record working with global corporations, domestic and international media, startups, and government agencies, PBMC has established itself as a trusted partner for international communications and multimedia content production.

Company Overview

Company Name: Pacific Bridge Media and Consulting, Inc.
CEO: Toshi Maeda
Founded: June 30, 2010
Headquarters:
22nd Floor, Shiroyama Trust Tower
4-3-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Main Fields of Business:

  • Multilingual content strategy development, production, and distribution
  • Cross-border public relations, media relations, and investor communications
  • Bilingual and multilingual event planning, production, and technical/editorial support
  • Live streaming and hybrid event broadcasting
  • News, press release, and media content production and global distribution
  • Startup and corporate media platform management and content creation

Website: https://pacificbridge.jp

About JStories

JStories is a solutions-focused media platform dedicated to showcasing innovations originating in Japan that address global challenges such as environmental sustainability, food security, and social issues.

Launched in April 2022, JStories has published more than 500 original articles and continues to share stories from Japanese startups, NGOs, researchers, and universities through in-depth articles and video content. By highlighting practical solutions and forward-looking ideas, JStories connects global audiences with Japan’s innovation ecosystem.

JStories Website:
(English) https://jstories.media
(Japanese) https://jstories.media/jp
(Chinese) https://jstories.media/zh

CONTACT:

PACIFIC BRIDGE MEDIA AND CONSULTING
Editorial department: Toshi Maeda (Executive Editor)・Takanori Isshiki (Deputy Executive Editor)・Anita De Michele (Editorial Coordinator)
email: info@pacificbridge.jp 
phone: +81- 50-5527-0955

Champasack Authorities Survey Phou Salao for Conservation, Tourism Development

Alounxay Sounnalath, Champasack’s governor, led local officiials to survey the Phou Salao area on 21 December to develop it into conservation site and toursm development. (Photo credit: Champamai Newspaper)

Champasack provincial authorities on 21 December conducted a field survey of Phou Salao as part of plans to develop the area into a provincial-level conservation site linked with tourism.

According to local media, the project will establish a provincial conservation area encompassing Phou Salao, Phou Bachiang, and Phou Malong, with an emphasis on participatory environmental protection. 

A 4-kilometer loop road around the mountain is also planned to serve as a fitness and exercise space, creating a new landmark for health-conscious residents.

In addition to infrastructure development, the project includes restoring natural ecosystems by releasing wildlife such as squirrels, wild chickens, and rabbits, as well as rehabilitating a sacred pond to enhance its appeal as a scenic tourist attraction.

Phou Salao, also known as Golden Buddha, is a hilltop temple located in Pakse City, the capital of Laos’s Southern province. The site is renowned for its large Buddha statue, visible for miles around. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city and the Mekong River, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, in particular sunset,  and is easily accessible from Pakse.

Earlier in 2025, Champasack authorities also surveyed Phou Malong mountain in Phonthong district and announced plans to develop a 15.4-kilometer round-trip hiking trail.

Alounxay Sounnalath, Champasack’s governor emphasized that the initiative aims not only to promote tourism but also to preserve southern Laos’s identity, positioning Champascak as the “Pearl of the Mekong” while ensuring long-term environmental sustainability.

Champasack, the largest province in southern Laos, currently has 216 designated tourist sites, including 116 natural attractions, 60 cultural sites, and 40 historical places of interest. Among these is Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rising Gold Prices Add to Household Costs in Laos

A picture to demonstrate the rising in costs of living and gold price.

Gold prices in Laos jumped sharply on 23 December, following a broader rise seen across neighbouring countries, as global prices climbed and local currency pressures pushed costs higher at gold shops nationwide.

In Laos, on 23 December, the selling price of gold ornaments rose by LAK 940,000 (USD 43) per baht in a single day. As of the morning of 24 December, prices had increased by a further LAK 50,000.

Similar increases have been reported elsewhere in Southeast Asia, where gold prices closely track global markets and exchange rates.

The selling price of gold ornaments climbed to LAK 46.71 million (USD 2,158) per gold baht (1 gold baht equals to 15.2 grams), up from LAK 45.77 million (USD 2,116) on 22 December. The increase followed a smaller rise of LAK 240,000 (USD 11) per baht the previous day, marking a significant acceleration in price growth.

While gold price movements often draw attention from investors, the impact in Laos has been felt mainly by ordinary families. In Lao society, as in much of Asia, gold remains closely tied to family traditions, particularly weddings, religious ceremonies, and long-term household savings. As prices rise, these purchases have become more costly for local buyers.

The increase came as global gold prices reached a new record of USD 4,497 per ounce, supported by market volatility and recent US monetary policy decisions. 

Earlier this month, the US Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 25 percent, its third reduction in 2025, bringing rates to their lowest level in three years. Lower interest rates typically support gold prices, as investors seek safe-haven assets during periods of economic uncertainty.

At the domestic level, higher gold prices are adding pressure for Lao consumers already facing rising living costs. According to the Lao Statistics Bureau, inflation rose to 4.8 percent in November, up from 4.3 percent in October, driven mainly by increases in electricity, water, health care, and education costs, alongside continued depreciation of the kip.

Housing, electricity, and cooking fuel prices rose by 18 percent, while health care costs increased by 13.5 percent and education expenses climbed 11.6 percent, further straining household budgets.

The Laotian Times has previously reported that fluctuations in the kip and rising inflation frequently translate into higher gold prices at local shops, increasing costs for jewellery buyers and small savers.

/C O R R E C T I O N — SI Group, Inc./

In the news release, SI Group Announces Closing of Comprehensive Recapitalization, Positioning the Company for Accelerated Growth, issued 24-Dec-2025 by SI Group, Inc. over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows, with additional details at the end:

SI Group Announces Closing of Comprehensive Recapitalization, Positioning the Company for Accelerated Growth

Significant De-leveraging Transaction Resulting in Overall Debt Reduction of Approximately $1.7 Billion

THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Dec. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SI Group, a leading global developer and manufacturer of performance additives, process solutions and chemical intermediates, today announced the successful completion of a comprehensive recapitalization transaction supported by its lenders and equity partners. Through this transaction, SI Group has reduced its outstanding net indebtedness by approximately $1.7 billion (over 80% reduction) and made amendments to its revolving credit facility, both of which materially enhance SI Group’s financial and operational flexibility going forward. In addition, a new institutional ownership group, has injected $150 million of junior capital, demonstrating their confidence in the company’s long-term outlook. This investment will enable SI Group to fund the company’s working capital needs, invest in key operational initiatives, and accelerate growth to serve the needs of its customers and business partners.

“This recapitalization represents an important step for SI Group,” said David Bradley, President and CEO of SI Group. “By reducing our debt and securing new investment, we have strengthened our financial foundation, allowing us to continue investing in growth, improving operational capabilities, and supporting our customers worldwide. We appreciate the partnership of our new institutional investors, whose commitment reflects confidence in our strategy and positions us for long-term success.”

Advisors
Latham & Watkins LLP served as legal advisor, PJT Partners served as investment banker, AlixPartners LLP served as financial advisor to SI Group. 

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP served as legal advisor and Lazard served as investment banker to an ad hoc group of the company’s second-out term loan lenders.

Baker Botts L.L.P. served as legal advisor to the company’s pre-transaction equity holders.

About SI Group
SI Group is a global leader in the innovative technology of performance additives, process solutions, and chemical intermediates. SI Group solutions are essential to enhancing the quality and performance of countless industrial and consumer goods within plastics, rubber & adhesives, fuels & lubricants, oilfield, and pharmaceutical industries. SI Group’s global manufacturing footprint includes 18 facilities on three continents, serving customers in 80 countries with approximately 1,600 employees worldwide. In 2025, SI Group received a bronze award for corporate social responsibility by EcoVadis and is ranked among the top 35 percent of the more than 150,000 companies worldwide. SI Group innovates and drives change to create value with a passion for safety, chemistry, sustainability, and extraordinary results. Learn more at www.siigroup.com.

Media Contact:
Joseph Grande
ph: + 1.413.684.2463
joe@jgrandecommunications.com

CLARIFICATION: An earlier version of this release was missing a period, and incorrectly described Baker Botts L.L.P. as the legal advisor to the company’s ‘current’ (rather than ‘pre-transaction’) equity holders.