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Underprepared for a new world order created by a ‘jaw dropping’ collapse of procreative power

SINGAPORE, May 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Policy makers around the world are not ready for a new demographic order of global depopulation and how it will recast societies, economies and power politics.

With birth rates plummeting globally, countries face a future of shrinking and ageing societies driven by an unrelenting collapse in fertility.

Family structures and living arrangements previously imaged only in science fiction will become commonplace features of everyday life with an unprecedented collapse of procreative power.

These stark warnings of an era of pervasive depopulation were delivered at the 2025 Congress of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE) in Singapore today.

Internationally respected political economist, Dr Nicholas Eberstadt, is supporting an ASPIRE campaign advocating for policy changes that will encourage family building, particularly in the Asia Pacific region.

Dr Eberstadt is the Henry Wendt Chair in Political Economy at the American Enterprise Institute where he is renowned for his demographic research and studies on international security. He is also a senior advisor to the National Bureau of Asian Research.

He told the ASPIRE Congress that between 1965 and 2015 the human fertility rate in births per woman fell by half and the “record breaking, jaw dropping” plunge has quickened in recent years in rich and poor countries alike.

Dr Eberstadt said by 2023 fertility levels were 40 per cent below replacement levels in Japan, 50 per cent in mainland China, 60 per cent in Taiwan and 65 per cent in South Korea. Sub-replacement trends are also evident in countries including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.

“Labour forces will shrink all around the world due to the spread of sub-replacement birth rates with the old beginning to outnumber the young,” Dr Eberstadt explained.

“Societies will have to adjust their expectations to comport with the new realities of fewer workers, savers, taxpayers, renters, home buyers, entrepreneurs, innovators, inventors, consumers and voters.

“Dwindling workforces, reduced savings and investment, and unsustainable social outlays and budget deficits are all on the cards for today’s developed countries without sweeping changes in immigration, lifecycle earning and consumption patterns, and government policies for taxation and social expenditures. 

“Super-elders of 80-plus years of age are the world’s fastest growing cohort. By 2050, there will be more of them than children in some countries. The burden of caring for people with dementia will pose growing costs – human, social, economic – in an aging and shrinking world.”

Dr Eberstadt said as families and societies assume new structures under long-term population decline, the challenge will be to develop new habits of mind, conventions and cooperative objectives.

“Policymakers will have to learn new rules for development in the midst of depopulation,” he explained. “Investors, likewise, will need new playbooks to profit from an altered environment of opportunity and risk.

“There will be less margin for error for investment projects, be they public or private, and no rising tide of demand from a growing pool of consumers or taxpayers to count on.

“Prosperity in a depopulating world will also depend on open economics, free trade in goods, services and finance to counter the constraints that shrinking populations impose. As the hunt for scarce talent becomes more acute, the movement of people will take on new economic salience and immigration will matter more than in does today.”

ASPIRE President, Dr Clare Boothroyd, said in response to the disturbing fall in fertility rates, a new ASPIRE special interest group would be created to harness expertise in population sustainability.

She will co-Chair the group with acclaimed reproductive endocrinologist, Professor Dominique de Ziegler from Foch Hospital in Paris.

“Humanity is entering uncharted territory in the phenomenon of depopulation, and it is a challenge that must be embraced by governments, industry, the education sector and the public to push for family friendly policies that encourage family planning,” Dr Boothroyd said.

The ASPIRE Congress at the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre in Singapore has attracted more than 2,000 leaders from various disciplines in assisted reproduction to address latest advances and knowledge in fertility health.

For further information, go to www.aspire2025.com

Canton Fair Chronicles a Decade of Growth in the Global Pet Economy

GUANGZHOU, China, May 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Phase 3 of the 137th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair), held from May 1 to 5, marked the eleventh year of the dedicated exhibition zone for pet products and food. Since its launch at the 116th session in 2014, the zone has evolved alongside the pet industry itself, reflecting the shift from pets as simple companions to key drivers of consumer spending.

Market data points to steady growth across a wide range of pet economy segments, such as food, hygiene products, smart feeders, and more. Each area offers significant potential. According to Global Market Insights, the pet accessories market alone reached USD 23.4 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 49.6 billion by 2034, with a projected annual growth rate of 7.9%. As industry expands, competition intensifies, pushing companies to continuously adapt and innovate.

The 137th Canton Fair marked the fifth appearance of Puyuan (Dalian) Pet Products Co., Ltd., which values the event for its unique advantages over industry-specific exhibitions. May Wu, Puyuan’s Operation Manager, noted that the Fair attracts a more diverse group of buyers, enabling access to procurement teams that are often absent at niche trade shows. This exposure has opened doors to new customer segments and led to larger orders from major retailers and supermarkets.

Demonstrating its commitment to innovation, Hangzhou TianYuan Pet Products Co., Ltd. continues to unveil its latest offerings at every edition of the Fair. “A few years ago, this industry was still in its early stages, but now it has reached a considerable scale,” said Haha, TianYuan’s Marketing Manager. “With over two decades of experience, we’ve witnessed this transformation firsthand.”

The Canton Fair has also played a pivotal role in tracking the rapid development of the pet industry. Initially showcasing necessities like food and toys, this exhibition zone has evolved into a hub for innovation, introducing advanced solutions that redefine pet care, such as a CF Award-winning device that uses voice control and lasers to engage cats, easing anxiety and promoting exercise. Newer offerings also emphasize co-living comfort, from multifunctional furniture for pets and owners to oxygen-infused mineral cat litter that enhances the home environment.

The evolution of the Canton Fair’s pet products and food zone not only mirrors the industry’s advancement but also underscores the growing bond between people and their animal companions.


 

Bybit and St. Paul American Scholars School Furthers Partnership Commitment in Bybit’s HQ Visit

DUBAI, UAE, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, extended a warm welcome to an international delegation from the St. Paul American Scholars (SPAS), a top international school in Korea on Monday. The visit is part of a joint initiative between Bybit and SPAS dedicated to fostering the next generation of blockchain innovators through a series of academic and educational programs.

Ryan Kim, Head of SPAS, and Jinny Kim, Director of SPAS, were greeted by Helen Liu, COO of Bybit at the Bybit headquarters in Dubai. The official visit underscores the institutions’ shared commitment to building the partnership from the ground up, and creating a knowledge base to prepare SPAS students for the future of technology and the blockchain-enabled economy.

In the academic year of 2025/26, Bybit has committed a $100,000 scholarshipto 300 SPAS students of St. Paul American Scholars (SPAS). The broader theme of the collaboration centers on collective learning and community sharing, which aligns with SPAS’s philosophy of building a closely knitted community for educators, parents, and students. Bybit will organize interactive educational sessions on campus to fill the knowledge gap between the demands for future-ready skills and traditional academic resources.

The fast moving blockchain landscape is central to a changing world. Parents and students today are increasingly aware of the possibilities and potential challenges of the dawning on-chain economy. The new dynamics will require creators and contributors to be equipped with understanding of blockchain technologies, to develop their passion, and to project their creativity onto positive causes. Through workshops and interactive events, the Bybit and SPAS initiative stands to leave a profound impact on blockchain education for international students in SPAS. 

SPAS representatives boarded the crypto express to the world of digital assets at the Bybit headquarters, sharing unique perspectives as educators and first-hand insights from Liu at the frontier of the digital economy.

“We are proud to welcome the SPAS family to Bybit’s headquarters, and we hope this will become the starting point of SPAS students’ blockchain journey. The value of blockchain education is not only giving students a headstart in understanding the digital economy, but also to inspire them to think about changing the world for the better with a powerful technology that will one day be entirely at their disposal,” said Helen Liu, COO of Bybit.

“It is a great honor for Saint Paul International School to establish a meaningful partnership with Bybit, a global leader in blockchain technology. This visit to Bybit’s headquarters in Dubai was more than just a meeting; it was a precious opportunity to build a foundation of deep mutual trust,” said Ryan Kim, Head of SPAS. “Bybit’s warm-hearted commitment to providing scholarships for Saint Paul International School students and planning continuous social contribution programs deeply moved us all. We firmly believe that, with its sincere vision and values, Bybit will continue to shine as a world-leading company,” he said.

The SPAS delegation toured the Bybit Crypto Ark Experience Store, a new venue at Bybit’s Dubai headquarters that showcases blockchain innovation and provides an open space for crypto collaborations. Since opening, the store has attracted hundreds of visitors, entrepreneurs, and crypto enthusiasts contributing to the regional ecosystem.

Bybit and St. Paul American Scholars School Furthers Partnership Commitment in Bybit’s HQ Visit
Bybit and St. Paul American Scholars School Furthers Partnership Commitment in Bybit’s HQ Visit

Established in 2015, SPAS operates four campuses across Korea’s major metropolitan areas and is recognized as a leading American educational institution with full accreditation from multiple organizations. SPAS also offers international exchange programs through partnerships with schools in New York, Canada, and the UK, providing students with opportunities to experience diverse cultures and global perspectives.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

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Ping An Rapidly Launches Overseas Emergency Assistance to Support Chinese Citizens Affected by Major Traffic Accident in the U.S.

HONG KONG and SHANGHAI, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (“Ping An”, the “Company” or the “Group”, HKEX: 2318; SSE: 601318) has established the “502 Overseas Emergency Assistance Task Force” to coordinate emergency responses and assistance for Chinese citizens affected by the May 1 traffic accident near Yellowstone National Park in the US. Preliminary reports indicate that the collision between a pickup truck and a tourist van in Idaho resulted in the deaths of five Chinese citizens and injuries to eight more.

Following the incident, Ping An promptly activated its Level 2 emergency response protocol for major incidents. The Company task force is led by Co-CEO Michael Guo, and includes Board Secretary and Brand Director Richard Sheng, Chief Administrative Affairs Officer Zhiliang Wang, Ping An Life Chairman Zheng Yang, Ping An P&C Chairman Quan Long, Ping An Health Insurance Chairman Yougang Zhu, Ping An Finserve Chairman Yue Lu, and Ping An Pension Insurance Corp. Chairman Weimin Gan.

Under the guidance of the “502 Emergency Assistance Task Force,” Ping An’s business units — including life insurance, P&C, pension insurance, and health insurance — have established specialized emergency response teams. These teams are working closely with local medical institutions, rescue organizations, and insurance companies to provide seven key overseas emergency assistance measures, including advance claims processing, direct compensation, emergency aid, and medical support for eligible clients.

Ping An is liaising with the Chinese Embassy in the US and the Consulate General in San Francisco. Under the direction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, the Chinese Embassy, and the San Francisco Consulate General, Ping An will collaborate with relevant overseas aid and medical organizations to assist injured individuals and the families of the deceased. Additionally, Ping An has launched a special overseas emergency assistance program, offering help to anyone affected by the accident, regardless of whether they are Ping An customers. Individuals can call the emergency hotline 95511 for assistance. As of 3 p.m. Beijing time on May 3, Ping An has not identified any of its customers as being involved in the accident.

The Company will closely monitor the progress of emergency response efforts related to this accident, continue screening customer involvement, mobilize resources to support medical treatment for the injured, and ensure the implementation of all overseas emergency services, expedited claims processing, and customer care initiatives. Ping An is committed to doing everything possible to help affected customers and their families navigate this difficult time.

Below are seven key overseas emergency assistance measures:

  1. Proactive claims service: Actively identify customers that may be affected and reach out to provide claims services.
  2. Expedited claims processing: Dedicated 24/7 reporting hotline via 95511, with overseas access available at +86 755 95511.
  3. Medical support: Provide services such as emergency medical care, medical transportation, repatriation, hospitalization, advance payment, medical translation, urgent medication delivery, and medical equipment support.
  4. Emergency assistance: Offer services including repatriation of remains/ashes, local burial/funeral expenses, arrangements for relatives to handle posthumous matters, repatriation of minor children, family visits, and accommodation for recovery.
  5. Simplified accidental death claims process: For customers who suffered accidental death in this incident, beneficiaries can apply for death claims based on official government-confirmed death lists. Supporting documents such as death certificates, cremation certificates, and household deregistration certificates can be provided later.
  6. Advance compensation for confirmed deaths: Proactively issue advance compensation for confirmed death cases.
  7. Claims without policy documentation: For affected customers, if the applicant’s basic policy information matches the insurance company’s database, claims can be processed without requiring physical policy documentation.

About Ping An Group
Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (HKEX:2318 / 82318; SSE:601318) is one of the largest financial services companies in the world. It strives to become a world-leading provider of integrated finance, health and senior care services. Under the technology-driven “integrated finance + health and senior care” strategy, the Group provides professional “financial advisory, family doctor, and senior care concierge” services to its 242 million retail customers. Ping An advances intelligent digital transformation and employs technologies to improve financial businesses’ quality and efficiency and enhance risk management. The Group is listed on the stock exchanges in Hong Kong and Shanghai. As of the end of December 2024, Ping An had more than RMB12 trillion in total assets. The Group ranked 29th in the Forbes Global 2000 list in 2024 and 53rd in the Fortune Global 500 list in 2024. 

For more information, please visit www.group.pingan.com and follow us on LinkedIn – PING AN.

A Masterpiece in Metal and Light: Groundbreaking Ceremony for the CMU Museum of Fine Arts Marks a Milestone in Taiwan’s Architectural History

Frank Gehry’s Sole Major Project in East Asia Begins to Rise in Taichung

TAICHUNG, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On May 3, 2025, beneath the ever-shifting skies of Taichung’s Shui-Nan campus, China Medical University (CMU) broke ground on what promises to be a transformative landmark for Taiwan—the CMU Museum of Fine Arts, designed by none other than Frank Gehry, laureate of the Pritzker Architecture Prize and one of the most revered architects of our time. This will be Gehry’s only monumental creation in East Asia, and a defining moment in Taiwan’s architectural and cultural evolution.

The China Medical University Museum of Fine Arts, Frank Gehry’s only major project in East Asia, features folded stainless steel forms that capture light like a watercolor—a defining moment in Taiwan’s architectural and cultural evolution.
The China Medical University Museum of Fine Arts, Frank Gehry’s only major project in East Asia, features folded stainless steel forms that capture light like a watercolor—a defining moment in Taiwan’s architectural and cultural evolution.

Showcasing Taiwan to the World: Groundbreaking Ceremony for the CMU Museum of Fine Arts

CMU and Healthcare System Chairman Dr. Chang-Hai Tsai expressed his ambition to extend the university’s contributions beyond its achievements in education, medicine, and biotechnology:

“Through architecture and art, and through the hand of a master architect, we hope to offer the world a glimpse of Taiwan’s spirit.”

As early as 2014, Dr. Tsai entrusted New York–based SOM, one of the world’s largest architecture firms, with planning the Shui-Nan campus. At the heart of the blueprint was a museum—a space not just for art, but for ideas, identity, and innovation. Among more than 30 living Pritzker laureates, Dr. Tsai sought only one: Frank Gehry, the father of deconstructivist architecture. Despite no longer participating in design competitions and working exclusively by invitation, Gehry was moved by Dr. Tsai’s invitation and agreed to craft a museum tailor-made for Taiwan.

Pritzker Laureate Frank Gehry’s Tailored Tribute to Taiwan: A New Chapter in Global Architecture

CMU and Healthcare System Chairman Dr. Chang-Hai Tsai envisioned extending the university’s legacy beyond education, medicine, and biotechnology, aspiring to make contributions in architecture and the arts.

To realize this dream, in 2014, CMU invited New York–based SOM to plan the Shui-Nan campus, including a dedicated museum space. Among more than 30 living Pritzker laureates, Dr. Tsai chose only one—Frank Gehry, the father of deconstructivist architecture.

Moved by Dr. Tsai’s sincerity, Gehry agreed to create a museum uniquely designed for Taiwan, without participating in public competitions—an honor reserved for only the world’s most distinguished clients.

Forging a New Urban Aesthetic with Cascading Steel and Sculpted Metal

The CMU Museum of Fine Arts will be sculpted from folded metal sheets and undulating stainless steel, capturing the endless play of light across the sky.

Gehry’s design transforms the building’s surface into a living canvas, radiating delicate hues like a watercolor painting that changes with the sun and weather.

In an interview with the New York Times (April 14, 2021), Gehry explained:

“The design is inspired by reflections of buildings, trees, and the sky on pools of water and mirrored steel. Using softer stainless steel, we crafted a fluid form through precise folds and curves. The building will shimmer gently, breathing with light, like a watercolor in motion.”

This innovative approach not only showcases Gehry’s profound mastery of material but also creates a poetic dialogue between architecture, nature, and the cityscape—a vibrant new link between art and urban life.

Fusing Education and Art to Forge Global Connections

Chairman Tsai remarked:

“World-class cities are home to world-class universities—institutions that not only excel in academic research, but also house world-renowned museums. Universities such as Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, and Cambridge exemplify the seamless integration of scholarship and the arts.”

The CMU Museum of Fine Arts is thus envisioned as a new hub where Taiwan’s university education and aesthetic education converge, connecting Taiwan to the global cultural circuit. In the future, it will join forces with the Asia Museum of Modern Art, as well as institutional allies such as Harvard’s Fogg Museum, Stanford’s Cantor Arts Center, Oxford’s Ashmolean, and Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum. Together, they will elevate Taiwan’s cultural voice on the world stage—and with it, CMU’s global reputation.

CONTACT: Carolyn Chen, 100709@tool.caaumed.org.tw

ECA Expo 2025 Opens Today

Over 100 Events Creating an Immersive Experience Carnival

HONG KONG, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The “ECA Expo 2025”, organized by Exhibition Group, opens today until May 5 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Upholding the philosophy of “Holistic Education, Invitational Education,” the organizers have invited numerous established educational institutions and teaching material suppliers to participate. All courses and educational materials featured at the expo have undergone rigorous screening to ensure reliable quality. Parents and students can personally experience various features of the course and educational materials to select the most suitable learning solutions. The Expo aims to creating a comprehensive exchange platform for educational resource providers and consumers that delivers greater benefits to all.

The opening ceremony was attended by Prof. Herman Hu, GBS, JP, HKSAR deputies to the National People’s Congress (NPC) and Honorary Vice-President of the Hong Kong Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, Mr. Eddie Ng, former Secretary for Education of the HKSAR, Mr. Wong Po Kee, Honorary Deputy Secretary General of the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, Mr. Carl Wong, Chairman of Exhibition Group, Mr. Rex Li, Chairman of Hong Kong Pet Trade Association Limited, Mr. Eric Cheung, Co-Organizer and CEO of Ericnoah Workshop, Ms. Tracy So, Strategic Partner and Executive Associate General Manager of Advertising and Business Development at Sing Tao News Corporation Limited, Mr. Terence Au, Business-School Partnership Programme Partner and Marketing Director of Ming Pao Newspaper Limited, Dr. Purple Lee, Extracurricular Activities Promotion Ambassador and Founder of Purple Music world.

Mr. Carl Wong, Chairman of Exhibition Group, stated: “Extracurricular activities are vital for promoting students’ holistic development, especially against the backdrop of growing concerns about youth mental health in today’s society. Through physical and arts education and diverse extracurricular activities, we can not only improve students’ physical fitness but also cultivate creative thinking and relieve academic pressure, helping build positive and healthy attitudes toward life. The government recently launched ‘4Rs Mental Health Charter’ also emphasizes the importance of ‘Relaxation,’ encouraging students to exercise more to develop regular physical activity habits. This year’s ECA Expo is dedicated to providing diverse and comprehensive extracurricular activity options for students aged 3 to 11, cultivating their curiosity, creativity, and logical thinking through various educational programs and experiential activities.” He further noted that extracurricular activities not only provide experiential opportunities for students but also help schools effectively utilize resources such as the “Student Activities Support Grant” and “Life-wide Learning Grant,” enabling students from different socioeconomic backgrounds to participate in diverse life-wide learning activities.

The “ECA Expo 2025” breaks conventional boundaries by leading various types of education centers and material providers beyond their traditional promotional channels to directly showcase their strengths and characteristics. The expo features over 100 exciting activities, including the 2025 Allstar Minime and Cadet Fencing Championships 2025 Hong Kong Modern Pentation Youth Training Squad Selection Competition, Selective Trial in Hong Kong for Tamiya Mini4WD World Challenge, Modojo B-MAX Challenge, Hong Kong Chess Master Tournament 2025, as well as the 15th HKFEW Sports – Rope Skipping Competition and RUMMIKUB U18 Elite Cup, providing young talent with a platform to showcase their abilities.

This year, the organizers have partnered with the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups to set up a SLASH POINT area, where participants can experience Japanese projection mapping workshops, sugar-blowing challenges, sand art candle making, freestyle swordball and other sports, as well as parent-child body painting, massage workshops, and UV crystal resin creation, allowing visitors of all ages to enjoy creative fun together. The main stage will present various performances, including Talent Showcase, Taekwondo Demonstrations, dynamic Latin dance performances, musical performances, and drama shows. Visitors can also enjoy performances by SH Dance Dreamers, BeiBeiSounds Singing Show, YAYAKIDS Dance Stage Jam, The Valley of Arts Drama School Performance, WHYSOMUSIC Student Performance 2025, Roller Dance, and a Summer Street Dance Show, displaying students’ diverse talents.

The ECA Expo also offers numerous experiential activities, allowing participants to try golf, pickleball, IPSC practical shooting, cycling activities and freestyle cycling demonstrations, a hundred-person mini flower plaque workshop, and jump rope experiences for various age groups. The Hong Kong Taekwondo Grand Prix 2025 will be held concurrently, providing participants with memorable sporting experiences. Other special events include the award ceremony for the 3rd Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Macao Design Competition for Youth Talents, the launch ceremony of the “100 Dreams Financial Growth Plan,” the “Kids in the Wild” seminar, as well as award ceremonies for the 2nd Hong Kong Primary and Secondary School Animal Model Coloring Competition and the 3rd “Childlike Hearts, Transmitting Arts” Hong Kong Traditional Cardboard Painting, allowing participants to learn about different aspects of extracurricular activities in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

ECA Expo 2025

Date

3 to 5 May,2025 (Saturday to Monday)

Time

10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Venue

Hall 1ABC, HKCEC (Exhibition Centre Station (Exit B3) or Wan Chai Station (Exit A5))

Website

https://www.exhibitiongroup.com.hk/exhibitions/ecaexpo2025

 

The "ECA Expo 2025", organized by Exhibition Group, opens today until May 5 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The “ECA Expo 2025”, organized by Exhibition Group, opens today until May 5 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

 

For Media Enquiry,

Market Hubs Holdings Limited

Lierence Li

Debbie So

+852 3998-4900

+852 3998-4900

lierence@markethubsgroup.com

debbie@markethubsgroup.com

 

137th Canton Fair Sets Off Flavor Frenzy with Playful Snacks & Sweets

GUANGZHOU, China, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From May 1 to 5, under the theme “Better Life,” Phase 3 of the 137th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) offered more than just trade. It provided a multi-sensory journey into the heart of China’s dynamic food culture. From pantry staples like rice, oils, sauces, and tea to an expansive range of snacks and sweets, the food zone buzzed with aromas, colors, and lively conversation, drawing global buyers eager to discover a world of flavors.

A long-standing exhibitor, Guangdong Sweet Sixteen Foods Co., Ltd once again captivated buyers this session with its innovative take on traditional confections. Its flagship bubble gum series, characterized by a tangy-sour coating that dissolves into sweetness, garnered significant attention for its playful sensory contrast. “Pure sweetness can become boring, so we add some playful flavor contrast,” said Yang Rong, a representative from the company. With a product lineup that includes lollipops and cotton candy, the brand has expanded to over 20 countries, including the U.S., U.K., and Canada, while actively growing its presence in South America, Africa, and the Middle East.

Guangdong Ruima Qi Food Co., Ltd. attracted buyers with its vibrant candy offerings. As a specialized manufacturer of popping candy, bracelet and necklace candy, and liquid candy, the company is known for its high-quality popping candy—remarkably stable at high temperatures, delivering a strong popping effect, and offering a long shelf life. Exporting its products to Europe, South America, and the Middle East, the company emphasizes bold packaging design as much as taste, recognizing the growing demand for visually engaging sweets, according to a company representative.

Beyond the colorful candy offerings, the Fair also presented traditional snacks, such as throat lozenges made with preserved citrus peel and Buddha’s hand fruit, reflecting the Chinese philosophy of food as medicine. Meanwhile, spicy strips, or latiao, a popular Chinese snack known for its bold flavors and has created a strong presence on international social media, can also be found at the Fair.

From classic sweet treats and uniquely crafted specialty candies to soothing health-focused confections and irresistible Chinese snacks, the Canton Fair continues to captivate global buyers with its dynamic and ever-evolving flavors. As global curiosity about Chinese snacks rises, especially those going viral on international social platforms, the Fair emerges as a must-visit for flavor seekers.


 

Unilever’s CLEAR Launches Scientific Anti-Dandruff Series: Lab-Proven Tech Targets Oil, Flakes, and Sensitivity

SHANGHAI, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On April 17, 2025, CLEAR, Unilever’s premium professional anti-dandruff brand, officially launched its first SCALPCEUTICALS PRO RANGE globally at TANK Shanghai. This series embodies the brand’s 50 years of scientific research and unites the efforts of five global labs and over 200 dermatologists. Using three patented technologies[1] to precisely target scalp concerns like oiliness, dandruff, and sensitivity, it powerfully initiates a revolutionary new era of “cellular-level[2] repair” in scalp care, ushering in a new chapter for premium quality in the field.

CLEAR SCALPCEUTICALS PRO RANGE Global Launch: Redefining Premium Scalp Care with Technological Innovation

Currently, China’s premium scalp care market is experiencing explosive growth, expanding at a rate of 190% and reaching a scale of over 33 billion RMB. Faced with evolving consumer demands and their diverse needs for scalp health, simply focusing on ”cleansing” is no longer enough to satisfy their desire for a premium experience.

“The key to a healthy scalp lies in fundamental repair at the cellular level.” Elsharkawy Mohamed, Unilever China’s Hair Care Marketing Director and Global Vice President of CLEAR, emphasized that Clear is now focusing on cell science and announced the global launch of the brand’s first SCALPCEUTICALS PRO RANGE.

This series, developed through a decade of research in partnership with five global labs and tested by more than 200 dermatologists, reportedly features a revolutionary “cellular-level hair care technology matrix.” It’s designed to address the core issues of oiliness, dandruff, and sensitivity, helping to build a healthy scalp environment.

Revolutionary Breakthrough at the Cellular Level: CLEAR Unveils the “Scalp Cell Response Mechanism”

Eric Han, Head of R&D for Unilever Beauty & Wellbeing North Asia, stated: ”In the new era of scalp care, treatment should not remain superficial. CLEAR’s technological approach is about ‘rebuilding the foundation’ by synergistically managing cell metabolism and the scalp microbiome to help restore scalp health.”

Thus, the CLEAR SCALPCEUTICALS PRO RANGE, built upon three patented technologies[1], now introduced five targeted products: The Selenium Disulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo incorporates Unilever’s proprietary Selenium Disulfide PRO[3] Technology, which strengthens the protein “skeleton” and “outer walls” of barrier cells[2] to eliminate and prevent dandruff at its root cause[4], clearing 99% of flakes in just one wash[5], and correcting oiliness, dandruff, and itch in 4 weeks[6]. The Scalp Massage Essence helps repair the scalp barrier and create an invisible shield against dandruff. For recurrent dandruff issues, the Anti-Dandruff Conditioning Shampoo utilizes Piroctone Olamine[7] Technology to not only inhibit and fight dandruff but also to improve the scalp environment, boosting dandruff resistance by 500%[8].

Beyond breakthroughs in dandruff control, CLEAR has launched its first clinically proven Oil Control Shampoo to address excessive sebum secretion. Utilizing Sebum-reg tech[9], it inhibits “scalp oil production” for a purer and more controlled scalp, correcting oily hair in 4 weeks[10]. Specially formulated for sensitive scalps, the Soothing and Repairing Shampoo is inspired by Nobel Prize-winning research. It features the SENSICARE[11] ingredient to precisely block sensitivity signals and correct the four major concerns of dryness, itch, tightness, and redness within four weeks[12].

[1] Refers to the three patents in the CLEAR SCALPCEUTICALS PRO RANGE formulas. Specifically: CLEAR Soothing and Repairing Shampoo formula, a UK invention patent with patent number EP4271351; CLEAR Anti-Dandruff Conditioning Shampoo formula, a US invention patent with patent number US12246084; and CLEAR Oil Control Shampoo formula, a Chinese invention patent with patent number ZL201811056799.0.

[2] Refers to the barrier cells of the scalp epidermis.

[3] Refers to the selenium disulfide, serine, alanine, glycine, and panthenol in the formula of Clear’s Selenium Disulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo.

[4] Refers to the root cause of dandruff.

[5] A third-party study involving 34 consumers with severe dandruff shows statistically significant agreement in self-assessments after one use of CLEAR Selenium Disulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Individual results may vary.

[6] A third-party study involving 34 consumers with severe dandruff shows statistically significant agreement in self-assessments after 4 weeks’ use of CLEAR Selenium Disulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Individual results may vary. Itch refers to scalp itch caused by dandruff.

[7] Piroctone Olamine

[8] Unilever internal testing shows that CLEAR Anti-Dandruff Conditioning Shampoo inhibits the root cause of dandruff more than 6 times better than our internal control product. Individual results may vary.

[9] Refers to capryloyl glycine oil control technology.

[10] Unilever internal efficacy testing shows that after 4 weeks of continuous use of Clear CLEAR Control Shampoo, instrumental measurements indicated a significant reduction in scalp oil compared to before use. Individual results may vary.

[11] Refers to 4-tert-butylcyclohexanol and bisabolol in the CLEAR Soothing and Repairing Shampoo formula.

[12] A third-party study involving 32 consumers with sensitive scalp shows statistically significant agreement in self-assessments after 4 weeks’ use of CLEAR Soothing and Repairing Shampoo. Individual results may vary. Itch refers to scalp itch caused by dandruff.

From Product Innovation to Industry Leadership: CLEAR is Pioneering a New Era of Scalp Health.

CLEAR’s newly launched “cellular-level repair” series directly addresses the growing consumer demand for premium products. On one hand, CLEAR is benefiting from the innovative energy of the Chinese market to continuously push technological boundaries, taking this “cellular-level repair” standard, which originated from Chinese consumer needs, to a global stage. On the other hand, this move will also accelerate the beauty and hair care industry’s shift from a “functional” approach towards a more “scientific” one, ultimately raising the industry’s overall level.

“CLEAR has dedicated over 50 years to in-depth scalp research. This newly launched SCALPCEUTICALS PRO RANGE represents a vibrant step in the brand’s ongoing commitment to its premiumization strategy and its exploration of localized innovation within China,” stated Chen Ge, President of Unilever China. “China is not only a significant global consumer market but is also becoming an innovation hub for the beauty and hair care industry. By deeply integrating into China’s innovation ecosystem, we are upgrading from functionality to science, and from products to systems, thereby injecting continuous momentum into the transformation and sustainable growth of the global industrial chain.”

Notes:

  1. Three patented technologies: Refers to the three patents in the CLEAR SCALPCEUTICALS PRO RANGE formulas. Specifically: CLEAR Soothing and Repairing Shampoo formula, a UK invention patent with patent number EP4271351; CLEAR Anti-Dandruff Conditioning Shampoo formula, a US invention patent with patent number US12246084; and CLEAR Oil Control Shampoo formula, a Chinese invention patent with patent number ZL201811056799.0.
  2. Cellular-level: Refers to the barrier cells of the scalp epidermis.
  3. Selenium Disulfide PRO: Refers to the selenium disulfide, serine, alanine, glycine, and panthenol in the formula of Clear’s Selenium Disulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo.
  4. Root cause: Refers to the root cause of dandruff.
  5. Clearing 99% of flakes in just one wash: A third-party study involving 34 consumers with severe dandruff shows statistically significant agreement in self-assessments after one use of CLEAR Selenium Disulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Individual results may vary.
  6. Correcting oiliness, dandruff, and itch in 4 weeks: A third-party study involving 34 consumers with severe dandruff shows statistically significant agreement in self-assessments after 4 weeks’ use of CLEAR Selenium Disulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Individual results may vary. Itch refers to scalp itch caused by dandruff.
  7. Piroctone Olamine: Piroctone Olamine
  8. Boosting dandruff resistance by 500%: Unilever internal testing shows that CLEAR Anti-Dandruff Conditioning Shampoo inhibits the root cause of dandruff more than 6 times better than our internal control product. Individual results may vary.
  9. Sebum-reg tech: Refers to capryloyl glycine oil control technology.
  10. Correcting oily hair in 4 weeks: Unilever internal efficacy testing shows that after 4 weeks of continuous use of Clear CLEAR Control Shampoo, instrumental measurements indicated a significant reduction in scalp oil compared to before use. Individual results may vary.
  11. SENSICARE: Refers to 4-tert-butylcyclohexanol and bisabolol in the CLEAR Soothing and Repairing Shampoo formula.
  12. Correct the four major concerns of dryness, itch, tightness, and redness within four weeks: A third-party study involving 32 consumers with sensitive scalp shows statistically significant agreement in self-assessments after 4 weeks’ use of CLEAR Soothing and Repairing Shampoo. Individual results may vary. Itch refers to scalp itch caused by dandruff.