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Global Times: ‘China has become the center and focus of international attention’

BEIJING, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — To continuously observe how China is perceived by the world, the Global Times once again launched the “Global Survey on Impression and Understanding of China,” covering 46 countries and about 51,700 respondents. The survey found that Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era receives high international recognition. International community’s favorability toward China continues to rise, with growing expectations for China to play a greater role. Following the release of the survey results, it sparked positive responses, with several Chinese and foreign scholars analyzing various factors contributing to the sustained improvement of China’s international image.

‘Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era embodies advanced, shared aspirations of human society’

This survey has selected several key concepts from Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and asked foreign respondents for their views. “Building a community with a shared future for humanity” and “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets” received approval from nearly 80 percent of international respondents, while “advancing full and rigorous Party self-governance,” “further deepening reform comprehensively,” and “people-centered development philosophy” each receives over 70 percent recognition. Approval rate for the above five concepts exceeds 80 percent among respondents from developing countries, and surpasses 60 percent in developed countries. As for the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, Global Civilization Initiative (note: the Global Governance Initiative had not been announced when the survey began), and joint pursuit of the Belt and Road Initiative, over 70 percent of foreign respondents have indicated recognition, which is higher than that of 2024.

Wang Fan, Vice President of the China National Association for International Studies

From the perspective of recognition rates, more than 60 percent of respondents express approval of these concepts not only in developing countries but also in developed countries, indicating that these concepts hold significant value and embody the advanced, shared aspirations of human society. The current international community is rife with turmoil and disorder, with many countries in a state of confusion and actively seeking directions and answers. Some Western developed countries are mired in a development dilemma characterized by high welfare and high burdens, lacking clear judgement on the path forward; developing countries likewise need more explicit development approaches, models, and pathways. Concepts such as “building a community with a shared future for humanity” and the “two mountains” have garnered widespread resonance, grounded in clear practical logic and a contemporary context, and they align closely with the goals and approaches of human societal development.

Essam Sharaf, Former Egyptian Prime Minister

I appreciate China’s wisdom and carefulness regarding global affairs, especially the concept of “building a community with a shared future for humanity.” A people-centered approach and concrete actions will benefit the entire world. This is precisely what the Global Governance Initiative (GGI) is designed to address. The GGI focuses on actions that can bring change. The initiative is timely in responding to the fragile international environment. Actionable practices will first strengthen Global South countries’ capacity-building and long-term governmental effectiveness. The Global South has learned the importance of cooperation among themselves. Global South countries should cooperate and pursue the best possible conflict-resolution mechanisms. This cooperation will foster peace, and peace will in turn lead to development.

Muhammad Asif Noor, Director of the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies, Pakistan

Amid the intensifying international geopolitical conflicts, slowing economic growth, and the global challenges of climate crises and governance deficits, the concept of “building a community with a shared future for humanity” and related initiatives directly respond to interconnected crises that transcend borders, offering a future-oriented blueprint for collective action where traditional frameworks fall short. China actively promotes climate cooperation, technology sharing, and other initiatives, gradually being regarded as an important provider of international public goods. Especially amid the escalation of great power competition, China’s proposal of these concepts fully embodies the responsibility of a responsible major power.

Liang Xue, Assistant Researcher with the China Institute of International Studies

An increasing number of countries recognize that “building a community with a shared future for humanity” is the path forward for the peoples of all nations. This major concept has been incorporated into UN General Assembly resolutions for consecutive several years, with its core implications included in the United Nations’ “Pact for the Future,” and it is increasingly becoming a significant international public good that serves as a hallmark of the contemporary world. The concept of “building a community with a shared future for humanity” highly aligns with the core values accumulated over the long term in the cultures of various countries, in terms of their spiritual essence. “Building a community with a shared future for humanity” clearly advocates the common values of all humanity, resonating and integrating with the core ideas of unity, coexistence, cooperation, and mutual benefit championed by various civilizations, thereby drawing the largest concentric circle encompassing the value pursuits of peoples from countries with diverse historical and cultural backgrounds.

Kin Phea, Director General of the International Relations Institute of the Royal Academy of Cambodia

The cross-regional recognition of China’s vision of “building a community with a shared future for humanity” reflects a growing demand for inclusive cooperation amid global uncertainty. China’s concept resonates because it prioritizes shared development, mutual respect, and collective security rather than ideological conformity. It accommodates diverse political systems while emphasizing practical cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, climate change, and public health. This flexible and non-exclusionary approach aligns with the realities of a multipolar world, enhancing its credibility and appeal across different regions.

Rafael Zerbetto, Brazilian expert at China International Publishing Group and a recipient of the Chinese Government Friendship Award

Now, for first time we will see an ancient civilization with other values (different from Western ones) and mindset starting to lead the world. The four global initiatives appear in this context, signaling essential values and guidelines that China wants to share with the world. These initiatives support and complement each other. They share the same spirit of promoting win-win cooperation, mutual understanding, mutually beneficial exchanges and common development. Altogether they can be regarded as a framework that allows other countries to better understand China’s philosophy on global governance and what we can expect. A major secret behind China’s development success lies in its long-term systematic planning and strong implementation capacity.

‘A major secret behind China’s development success lies in its long-term, systematic planning and strong executive force’

Survey results show that nearly 70 percent of foreign respondents hold a positive attitude toward the Communist Party of China’s concepts and practices related to exercising full and rigorous Party self-governance, including implementation of the spirit of central Party leadership’s eight-point decision on improving work conduct. They agree that “the ruling party members in all countries should be held to higher standards than ordinary citizens” or “strict standards for the ruling party members are essential.” More than three-fourths of foreign respondents have an objective and positive understanding and evaluation of the formulation and implementation of five-year plans, agreeing that “this is an important mechanism in China’s economic and social development” and “an approach” the government of their country would do well to adopt.

Huang Jing, Distinguished Professor of Shanghai International Studies University 

The governance concepts and experience, such as implementing the spirit of the eight-point decision and formulating five-year plans, have won international acclaim, reflecting the international community’s widespread expectations for China’s development path and governance model. The international community’s recognition of the practice of exercising full and rigorous Party self-governance demonstrates that the ruling party can maximize the containment of the breeding and spread of corruption through rigorous self-governance – a political courage rarely seen in the practices of political parties in other countries.

No country in the world, especially one with a population as large as China’s, has been able to achieve the “two miracles” of rapid economic development and long-term social stability in over seven decades. To sum up, China’s approach consists of two aspects: first, adhering to a consistent long-term strategy; second, advancing continuous reform and opening-up. It is precisely this practice of ensuring policy continuity amid stability and deepening reform amid continuity that has enabled China to form clear and stable expectations in its long-term development. Continuity begets stability; stability begets predictability; predictability begets trust. This fully explains why favorability and recognition ratings on China have been on the rise.

Wang Fan

In some countries, the ruling parties lack effective mechanisms for rigorous self-restraint and self-reform. They often make promises during election campaigns that are not matched by their actions once in office, and their governance efforts are geared more toward electoral goals rather than enhancing long-term governance capacity.

By contrast, the CPC has always maintained high standards for itself, and through constant self-reflection and self-improvement, it continuously strengthens its capacity for leadership and sustains its vitality. This has gained considerable recognition from the international community. Furthermore, under China’s system, reforms can be advanced in a coordinated manner. This endows the comprehensive deepening of reforms with special significance, which has been positively evaluated by many countries.

Wu Xinbo, Dean of the Institute of International Studies of Fudan University

This year, international media have widely discussed and noted that a major secret behind China’s development success lies in its long-term, systematic planning and strong executive force. The international community’s high praise for the recommendations for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) also echoes this consensus: for a country to achieve sound development, it needs both rational, long-term and systematic planning, as well as robust execution to deliver on every item of the plan. The fact that China can fulfill its plans – even ahead of schedule or exceeding targets – is precisely the key to its development success.

Combating corruption is one of the top concerns of the general public worldwide. The spirit of the eight-point decision is not only crucial to improving China’s social conduct, but also sends a positive message to other countries that China has always attached great importance to governance capacity and work conduct while pursuing development.

Da Wei, Director of Center for International Security and Strategy and Professor at Department of International Relations of Tsinghua University

For developing countries, China serves as a successful model in the fields of development and governance. The practical approaches it has adopted for economic development and social governance are instructive, and thus its growing recognition is expected. In particular, concepts such as exercising full and rigorous Party self-governance, comprehensively deepening reform, people-centered development, and combating corruption address the key areas where developing countries are generally deficient. It is for this reason that these countries all recognize the significant value of such concepts.

Warwick Powell, Adjunct Professor at the Queensland University of Technology

Results speak louder than words. China has for decades been consistent in its focus on deeds and outcomes, and as it became wealthier itself, it has worked to mobilize its resources, experiences and lessons to enable others in the global south to step out from the shadows of colonialism and begin their own pathways of modernization and development.

In essence, China’s foreign policy has been framed by the idea of being a “great enabling power.” Because of its constructive role, its willingness to contribute, partner and support to create mutually beneficial outcomes, it’s hardly surprising that there’s strong support for China to continue playing this kind of role. Additionally, China focused on building consensus to address problems and conflicts. This takes more time than effort but has the prospects of being sustainable, as conflict parties are part of the solution rather than simply having so-called “solutions” imposed for forced upon them from outside.

‘The international community is broadly optimistic about China‘; ‘The rise in its international favorability rating comes as no surprise’

Nearly 80 percent (78 percent) of foreign respondents recognize that China’s comprehensive national strength is increasing, marking an 8-percentage-point rise from 2024. Survey data shows that nearly 70 percent (69 percent) of foreign respondents have a favorable impression of China, up 6 percentage points from 2024. Over 90 percent of foreign respondents have expressed interest in China and the area of top interest is “culture” in developed countries, and “technology” in developing countries. More than 70 percent hope that future China-US relations will “tend to be eased” or “maintain status quo.” In the comparison of “which country do you have a more favorable opinion of, China or the US?” the proportion of international public opinion choosing China is 39 percent, which is 1.5 times that of choosing the US (26 percent).

Wang Youming, Director of the Department for Developing Countries Studies at the China Institute of International Studies

The upward momentum of China’s international image is distinct, and the rise in its international favorability rating comes as no surprise. The international community now has more convenient and diverse channels to learn about China, and the country’s international image – both in terms of hard power and soft power – is fully consistent with what we observed during our field research abroad.

China’s stance of actively mediating disputes and promoting dialogue on global hot-button and intractable issues, its opposition to unilateralism and trade protectionism, its efforts to actively expand opening-up, and its actions to promote win-win cooperation such as hosting of the China International Import Expo all align with the interests and aspirations of most countries in the world, especially developing nations.

As the world’s two largest economies and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, the stability of China-US relations bears on global stability, and cooperation between the two countries is vital to global development. China-US cooperation benefit both sides and confrontation hurt both sides. It is for this reason that the international community widely expects the two countries to maintain stable relations and boost global economic growth.

Wu Xinbo

China’s achievements in development and governance are gaining growing recognition from the international community, and the distorted narratives about China once peddled by some Western media have now lost their appeal. Notably, since the start of this year, there has been a marked positive shift in perceptions of China among academic, political, business and student circles in the US. The “DeepSeek phenomenon” has prompted American society to rethink China’s innovation capabilities, shattering long-held stereotypes. China’s response to the reckless imposition of tariffs by the US has deepened American society’s understanding of China’s economic resilience, while also correcting the biased judgments of some US media outlets and analysts who have long been predicting China’s economic decline.

Views on China’s progress in development and governance have tend to be more objective. Although ideological and value-based prejudices still persist, they have diminished compared with the past. At a recent international conference, a former official of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “China has become the center and focus of international attention.”

Muhammad Asif Noor

In recent global surveys conducted throughout 2025, a discernible shift in public perceptions has favored China over the US in various metrics of international favorability. This shift is particularly pronounced in the Global South, including sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where economic and geopolitical dynamics have amplified China’s appeal. Key factors driving this change include the perceived fallout from US policies under the second Trump administration, particularly the escalation of tariff wars and an “America First” approach that has been viewed as isolationist and unpredictable. 

In contrast, China’s consistent emphasis on multilateralism, non-interference, and economic cooperation through initiatives like BRI has bolstered its image as a stable and beneficial partner, especially in developing regions where infrastructure investments and trade have delivered tangible gains without conditional demands. Additionally, China’s growing economic clout, now seen by many as the world’s leading power, and its neutral stances in global conflicts, such as in the Middle East, have contributed to perceptions of it as a counterbalance to US unilateralism. This trend, of course, does not mean that the international community is making a simplistic binary choice between China and the US. Rather, it reflects the relative judgments made by the public of various countries on the roles of different major powers, based on practical interests, stable expectations and governance outcomes, against the backdrop of accelerating multipolarity.

Wang Fan

China’s development is reflected not only in its scale, but also in multiple dimensions such as speed and efficiency. As the world’s largest manufacturing country, China has become a major trading partner for more than 150 countries and regions across the globe, boasting a vast market scale and a continuous unleashing of market vitality. Meanwhile, as a major representative of emerging market economies, China has been constantly exploring new development models in practice and put forward a series of innovative development concepts.

Like other countries in the world, China faces various challenges in the course of development. Yet what the international community pays greater attention to is the development potential and sustained innovation capacity that China has demonstrated, as well as its exploration of a more equitable and rational development model. More importantly, China’s development is not merely focused on its own growth; instead, it has always emphasized common development with other countries. It is precisely for this reason that the international community is broadly optimistic about China and expects that China’s development will bring about mutually beneficial opportunities for more countries.

China’s foreign policy is increasingly regarded as a force for stability’

More than 70 percent of respondents expect China to participate more in international affairs or play a greater role in the future, an increase compared to previous years. In areas such as building a more equitable and just international order, mediating and coordinating on international and regional hotspot issues, and conducting economic, trade, and educational and cultural cooperation, around 80 percent expect China to take more actions. Over 80 percent of international respondents believe that their country has a normal, friendly, or strategic cooperative relationship with China, an increase compared to 2024. Over two-thirds of international respondents hope that their country’s relationship with China will improve in the future. Over three-fourths of international respondents give positive and objective evaluations of China’s neighborhood policy.

Abbas Jawad Kdaimy, one of the translators of the Arabian edition of the book series Xi Jinping: The Governance of China

The expectation for China to assume a more prominent and constructive role in addressing global challenges is met with a keen understanding of the distinct attributes of its foreign policy and international engagement. China’s foreign policy is characterized by a strong advocacy for multilateralism and respect for the sovereignty of other nations. By prioritizing collaborative relationships over hegemonic ambitions, China distinguishes itself from other global powers.

China’s proactive participation in global governance frameworks reflects its determination to contribute meaningfully to resolving international disputes. This multifaceted approach creates an environment in which the global public feels optimistic about China’s potential contributions to tackling pressing global challenges.

Muhammad Asif Noor

China’s foreign policy is increasingly regarded as a force for stability. In diplomatic practice, China places greater emphasis on mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, as well as collective problem-solving, rather than unilateral dominance. Developing countries remain wary of aid with strings attached and external interference, and China’s long-standing adherence to the principle of non-interference in internal affairs – along with its opposition to politicizing development and cooperation – has garnered widespread resonance. By advocating for UN reforms and proposing and promoting a series of global initiatives, China positions itself as a supporter of inclusive decision-making, striving to amplify the voices of the Global South. At the same time, China integrates traditional cultural concepts into its contemporary diplomatic narrative, constructing a cultural framework that emphasizes peaceful coexistence and equal mutual benefit. In the current context of China’s rapidly rising economic strength and increasing diplomatic activism, this fusion of ideas is reshaping the international community’s perception of China, gradually establishing it as a reliable partner for resolving disputes through dialogue rather than confrontation, and as an important player in exercising constructive leadership in a multipolar world. Particularly among younger demographics, favorability toward China and recognition of its soft power are showing a steady and sustained upward trend.

Huang Jing

Both China and the US are major powers, and the words and deeds of the two countries will have a profound impact on the global situation, as well as significant spillover effects on their respective peripheries. Among China’s neighboring countries, Southeast Asian countries serve as the most representative example. Over the past few decades, Southeast Asian countries have achieved coordinated development and mutual benefit and win-win outcomes in the process of continuously deepening economic and trade exchanges and industrial collaboration with China, demonstrating the driving and altruistic nature of China’s development. When compared with the intervention approaches of certain major powers in various parts of the world after the end of the Cold War, these differences are particularly stark. In addressing relevant issues in the Asian region, China has consistently adopted an attitude of safeguarding peace, emphasizing dialogue and the management of differences, which reflects the unique path it adheres to in handling regional and international affairs.

Da Wei

Neighboring countries are of vital importance to China. These countries maintain extremely close economic ties with China; many share mountains and rivers with it, and are highly similar at the social and cultural levels, fostering natural bonds between them. Over the past few decades, China’s rapid economic development has created numerous opportunities for its neighbors, driving the progress of the entire region. China has always attached great importance to relations with neighboring countries. While advancing its own development, China will continue to create space for the growth of these nations, achieving overall regional prosperity and long-term stability through mutually beneficial cooperation.

Wang Youming

Over 80 percent of international respondents believe that their country has a normal, friendly, or strategic cooperative relationship with China. This perception is highly correlated with the reality that China has become the main trading partner of more than 150 countries and regions. Economic ties, as an important foundational factor in interstate relations, to some extent, reflect the actual warmth and stability of bilateral relations between China and relevant countries. China’s neighborhood diplomacy concepts, such as “amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness,” are deeply welcomed by regional countries. The demeanor exhibited in China’s diplomacy brings harmony, tranquility, and development to neighboring countries.

Maya Majueran, Director of BRISL, an independent & pioneering Sri Lankan-led organization, with expertise in BRI advice and support

China’s approach appears markedly different: inclusive, cooperative, and rooted in the idea of a shared future. This perception is fueling a surge in global support for Beijing’s vision. At the core of China’s appeal is a principle that resonates deeply with many nations: non-interference in domestic affairs. Unlike models that tie engagement to political conditions, China positions itself as a development partner open to collaboration with countries of all sizes regardless of population, economic strength, or military power. For nations weary of external pressure, this is a refreshing alternative.

Experts: Vinhomes Green Paradise Is One of the World’s Rarest Branded Real Estate Assets


HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2025 – According to leading experts, when ESG++ urban developments account for less than 1% of global supply, every project that meets the standard becomes a true collectible asset. Vinhomes Green Paradise in Can Gio, Vietnam is emerging one step ahead in a period of strong market consolidation, opening a 25-30% appreciation range for investors who want to ride the green transformation wave.

Experts: Vinhomes Green Paradise Is One of the World’s Rarest Branded Real Estate Assets

A “One-of-a-Kind” Branded Asset on the Global Map

Speaking at the seminar “Advancing to the Sea with ESG++ Mega-Cities: A Strategy for Sustainable Investment,” Dr. Le Xuan Sang, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Institute of Economics and World Economy, emphasized that for investors, a “branded real estate asset” must meet four criteria: An unmatched location, elevated development standards, limited supply, and a compelling story recognized by global markets. “Vinhomes Green Paradise meets all four,” Sang shared.

He highlighted the integrated ecosystem of the Vinhomes Green Paradise urban development, where affluent residents can enjoy a full spectrum of experiences within one cohesive environment, from work, leisure, wellness, and recreation to business trips and retirement living. When every component reaches a premium standard, the project’s merits speak for themselves.

In Southeast Asia, he noted, it is exceptionally difficult to find a coastal megacity of comparable scale that not only aligns with ESG++ benchmarks but is also connected to high-speed infrastructure and backed by a powerhouse metropolis like Ho Chi Minh City.

“It is entirely justified to call this a rare, hard-to-find branded real estate asset,” he said.

Supporting this viewpoint, Associate Professor Dr. Architect Hoang Manh Nguyen, Chairman of the Institute for Green Urban Science & Technology, highlighted Can Gio’s unparalleled ecological advantage, “backed by forest, facing the sea”, a combination almost impossible to replicate globally and one that carries immense economic value.

He further underscored the “expensive” and “highly complex” nature of ESG++ coastal reclamation cities. Vinhomes Green Paradise being recognized by New7Wonders as the first official participant for the “7 Wonders of Future Cities” title is, in his view, strong evidence that it represents a new global benchmark in urban innovation.

“This places Vinhomes Green Paradise among the world’s truly ‘singular’ real estate assets, naturally becoming a prime target for elite residents and discerning investors,” he stated.

From a legal and institutional perspective, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Quang Tuyen, Vice Chairman of the University Council and Head of the Faculty of Economic Law at Hanoi Law University, noted that the distinction of “branded real estate” lies in clear legal frameworks, stable planning, and professional operations, attributes that can withstand the test of time and policy shifts. These are precisely the strengths of Vinhomes Green Paradise, further reinforced by the credibility of the Vingroup brand.

ESG++ Assets: A Long-Term “Safe Harbor” with 2530% Appreciation Potential

Discussing the issue in greater depth, Associate Professor Dr. Hoang Manh Nguyen asserted that urban livability is the key determinant of real estate value. Locations with cleaner air, lower noise levels, better mobility, richer landscapes, and more refined amenities will always command higher prices and more sustainable appreciation. ESG++ urban models elevate quality of life to a new tier, not only “green” in terms of vegetation and water bodies but green in energy, operations, and lifestyle.

“With these advantages, Vinhomes Green Paradise is not only a pioneer in the development of green coastal cities but also has tremendous potential to preserve and grow value over time,” he noted.

Vinhomes Green Paradise has been described as a “precious gem”, a unique asset on the global real estate map.

Aligning with this view, Dr. Le Xuan Sang added that globally, capital is shifting clearly toward asset classes that deliver growth, sustainability, and climate resilience. Beyond ESG++, the added layers of regeneration and climate adaptation make qualifying assets exceedingly rare.

The demand for ESG++ coastal cities will grow strongly, while supply will remain extremely limited, representing less than 1% of global inventory over the next 10-20 years. This scarcity ensures enduring value and makes speculative fears, such as panic buying or price collapse, highly unlikely.

“When supply is extraordinarily low while demand from the global middle and upper class continues to surge, ESG assets naturally become a ‘blue-chip’ category, scarce, highly valued, and exceptionally defensive across economic cycles,” he explained.

“Today, this elite and exceptionally scarce asset may appear expensive relative to average incomes. But securing a property like the one in Can Gio will be an extraordinary challenge in five to ten years, as the economy expands and incomes rise,” Nguyen Quang Tuyen said.

He added that in OECD countries, urban areas meeting ESG standards are often the focus of state investment in core infrastructure, public services, and high-quality social amenities, creating a robust value foundation. Once this foundation stabilizes, real estate values in these areas tend to rise steadily, often outpacing comparable non-ESG locations.

Multiple international reports show that ESG cities typically achieve 25-30% appreciation, sometimes at a rate 1.5-2 times faster than neighboring districts. Consequently, securing a position in Vinhomes Green Paradise at this stage offers investors a primary-market advantage, akin to sourcing raw value directly from the origin before it reaches the broader retail market.
Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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

A Decade of Challenge and Collaboration: APRIL Reflects on Scientific Leadership in Peatland Management

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2025 – APRIL Group recently marked a decade of groundbreaking collaboration between its independent Peatland Expert Working Group (IPEWG) and its in-house Peatland Science team, highlighting the role of science in guiding responsible peatland management.

APRIL, a member of the RGE group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, set up IPEWG in 2015 to provide independent advice on responsible peatland management. Over the past ten years, the group’s work has not only informed APRIL’s operational decisions but has also contributed significantly to the global understanding of tropical peatlands.

“The launch of the IPEWG was a leap of faith for both the company and the scientific community,” said Dr. Ruth Nussbaum, IPEWG Coordinator and Director of Proforest. “What made it truly unique was the level of access and collaboration granted to independent scientists, allowing us to rigorously advise on operational decisions while contributing to global research.”

IPEWG members worked closely with APRIL’s Peatland Science team, supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure, including four Eddy Covariance Flux Towers measuring greenhouse gas emissions from different landscapes at heights of 40 to 48 meters above the forest canopy. Long-term monitoring studies across hundreds of sites provided a robust evidence base for operational decisions, from canal infrastructure planning to broader sustainability initiatives.

This collaboration has also advanced peatland science worldwide. Research co-published by IPEWG and APRIL’s scientists in leading journals such as Global Change Biology, Nature Geoscience and Nature has enriched understanding of tropical peatlands, while data and findings have been shared at international scientific conferences to the benefit of the broader scientific community.

With the conclusion of the IPEWG’s current phase, APRIL is integrating its expertise into the next stage of oversight. Dr. Fahmuddin Agus of Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), a long-standing IPEWG member, has joined APRIL’s independent Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC) in December 2025. His role will strengthen the SAC’s expertise in sustainable peatland management and greenhouse gas monitoring, offering a more interdisciplinary perspective on the social, economic, and ecological dimensions of peatland landscapes beyond APRIL’s concessions.

“The inclusion of Dr Fahmuddin Agus ensures the spirit of independent scientific challenge continues within APRIL’s governance framework,” said Craig Tribolet, Director of Sustainability and External Affairs, APRIL Group. “It reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and maintaining world-class standards in peatland management as outlined in SFMP 2.0 and our APRIL2030 commitments.”

Over the past decade, APRIL and IPEWG have built trust, refined operational practices and shared knowledge with the global scientific community. While challenges remain in managing peatlands amid climate change, APRIL’s experience demonstrates how science-driven collaboration can yield lasting sustainability outcomes.

The newly published report, Challenge & Collaboration: A Decade of the Independent Peat Expert Working Group, documents this journey, highlighting lessons learned and the path forward for integrating rigorous science into corporate sustainability leadership. Read the report here: https://www.aprildialog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IPEWG-FA_Digital_upsize.pdf.Hashtag: #RGE #APRIL #APRIL2030 #IPEWG #GHG #Biodiversity #Conservation #Peatland #Nature #Indonesia #Sustainability


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

About APRIL Group

APRIL Group is a leading producer of fibre, pulp and paper with plantations and manufacturing operations in Riau Province, Indonesia. We are committed to sustainability in our business and in the broader landscapes where we operate. Under our production-protection model, we adopted a unique 1-for-1 goal where we aim to conserve one hectare of forest for every hectare of plantation, and currently conserve and restore about 460,000 hectares of forests, including the largest peatland restoration project in Indonesia. For more information, visit www.aprilasia.com.

HashMicro Highlights Enterprise Warehouse Management Priorities and Technology Trends for 2026

SINGAPORE, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HashMicro, a leading enterprise software provider in Southeast Asia, has published new insights into how large organizations are redefining warehouse operations in 2026. Based on its experience supporting more than 2,000 enterprise clients, HashMicro outlines the major considerations businesses are weighing as warehouse environments grow more distributed, data-driven, and performance-critical.

According to HashMicro, warehouse operations have evolved far beyond basic storage and picking. They now function as a strategic engine that influences delivery performance, cost management, and overall customer experience. As enterprises scale across multiple locations and sales channels, the demand for intelligent, automated, and fully connected warehouse management systems continues to accelerate.

Why Warehouse Strategy Has Become an Executive Priority

HashMicro’s enterprise observations show that organizations operating without modern warehouse systems frequently encounter inventory inconsistencies, inefficient picking cycles, recurring fulfillment errors, and fragmented data flows. Over time, these inefficiencies lead to rising operational costs, delivery delays, and declining service reliability.

To address these challenges, warehouse platforms in 2026 are expected to deliver continuous visibility, advanced automation, and data-driven coordination across inbound, storage, and outbound operations—creating stable, high-performance fulfillment at scale.

Seven Core Factors Enterprises Now Evaluate

Based on HashMicro’s industry analysis, enterprises selecting warehouse management software in 2026 consistently focus on the following priorities:

1. End-to-End Operational Visibility

Enterprises require real-time insight into stock positions, item movement, and warehouse activity across all facilities. Consistent tracking and standardized execution help ensure reliable data and tighter operational governance.

2. Automation Across Inbound and Outbound Processes

Organizations increasingly seek warehouse platforms that automate receiving, putaway, storage, picking, packing, and dispatch. Automation reduces dependency on manual input, lowers error rates, and sustains throughput during peak periods.

3. Fulfilment Speed and Accuracy Optimization

Enterprises prioritize systems that enhance order processing through efficient picking strategies, guided packing workflows, coordinated delivery management, and complete traceability from order release to final shipment.

4. Multi-Warehouse Coordination

As warehouse networks expand, businesses require centralized systems that standardize workflows, manage inter-warehouse transfers, optimize replenishment, and provide unified performance visibility across locations.

5. Intelligent Forecasting and Capacity Planning

Modern warehouse platforms are expected to incorporate AI-powered forecasting that analyzes historical demand, trends, and seasonality. This supports more accurate purchasing decisions and improved space and capacity utilization.

6. Industry Alignment and Deployment Flexibility

Enterprises favor solutions that offer sector-specific configurations for industries such as distribution, retail, manufacturing, logistics, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cold-chain operations. Modular architecture and cloud deployment allow organizations to scale while tailoring system complexity.

7. Usability, Scalability, and Long-Term Support

Ease of adoption, platform stability, and support for large distributed teams are essential. Enterprises also place strong emphasis on implementation quality, post-deployment support, and long-term system sustainability.

From Evaluation to Enterprise Execution

In real-world deployments, HashMicro’s warehouse management implementations already reflect the full range of capabilities outlined above, while continuing to expand through enhanced automation, AI-driven intelligence, advanced analytics, and deeper cross-system integration.

Through its enterprise engagements, HashMicro has observed that competitive warehouse platforms must deliver not only operational control and automation, but also continuous innovation in forecasting, space optimization, workflow orchestration, and system architecture to remain effective beyond 2026.

HashMicro’s View on the Future of Warehouse Management

HashMicro notes that leading enterprises are increasingly adopting warehouse platforms that unify real-time inventory tracking, multi-warehouse coordination, automated inbound and outbound operations, optimized picking and packing, AI-powered forecasting, and advanced visualization technologies such as 3D warehouse mapping.

These capabilities enable organizations to identify constraints, optimize space usage, enhance workflow efficiency, and sustain high service levels as order volumes and distribution complexity continue to rise.

By connecting warehouse operations with purchasing, sales, accounting, logistics, and enterprise systems, organizations are repositioning warehouse management as a strategic performance driver rather than a purely operational function.

Building Resilient Warehouse Operations for the Years Ahead

As global supply chains become more dynamic and delivery expectations intensify, HashMicro believes enterprises must invest in warehouse management platforms that combine intelligence, automation, scalability, and deep operational integration.

Organizations that adopt modern warehouse systems, according to HashMicro, will be best positioned to achieve faster fulfillment, stronger cost discipline, improved accuracy, and sustainable long-term growth well into the future.

USAS Building System Listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange: A Top-Three Industrial Prefabricated Steel Structure Solution Provider Enters a New Phase in the Capital Markets

HONG KONG, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On 30 December, USAS Building System (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (the “Company” or “USAS”) was officially listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, marking the completion of an important step in the Company’s entry into the international capital markets and the commencement of a new development phase as a publicly listed company accessible to public investors.

The successful listing represents not only a key milestone in the development history of USAS, but also brings the industrial prefabricated steel structure segment—long serving the manufacturing sector—into clearer view of the capital markets through a more representative business profile.

As a prefabricated steel structure building solution provider focused on the industrial sector, USAS addresses the construction needs of manufacturing plants and industrial projects by offering integrated subcontracting services covering design optimisation, procurement, manufacturing and on-site installation. According to the Frost & Sullivan Report, by revenue in 2024, the Company ranked third in China’s industrial prefabricated steel structure building market.

A Stable Operating Scale Provides a Foundation After Listing

From an operating perspective, USAS has established a relatively stable business scale. As disclosed in the prospectus, from 2022 to 2024, the Company recorded revenue of approximately RMB1,903 million, RMB1,453 million and RMB1,523 million, respectively, maintaining an overall scale at the level of over RMB1 billion. Among these, prefabricated steel structure building subcontracting services have consistently been the core source of revenue. In 2024, revenue from this business amounted to approximately RMB1,241 million, accounting for 81.5% of total revenue, demonstrating the Company’s high level of focus on its core industrial prefabricated steel structure business.

Against the backdrop of pronounced project-based business characteristics, the Company’s profitability structure has also remained relatively stable. From 2022 to 2024, USAS recorded overall gross profit margins of 12.7%, 14.8% and 12.5%, respectively, while the gross profit margin of the core subcontracting business remained within the 13%–15% range over the long term, reflecting a relatively mature operating system in project management, cost control and delivery capability. At the same time, the prospectus shows that the Company’s operating cash flow performance has remained stable, with sound liquidity, providing the necessary financial support for the continued advancement of its business and the execution of projects.

Clear Long-Term Logic for Industrial Buildings, with Overseas Business as an Incremental Supplement

From an industry perspective, industrial prefabricated steel structure buildings primarily serve manufacturing plants and industrial projects, and their demand is highly correlated with the manufacturing investment cycle. As manufacturing develops toward higher-end, larger-scale and more intensive operations, industrial projects increasingly require higher construction efficiency, structural safety and system integration capabilities, giving prefabricated steel structures a clear industrial rationale for application in industrial buildings.

While continuing to deepen its presence in the domestic industrial market, USAS has also gradually expanded its related overseas business. The prospectus discloses that revenue from the Company’s industrial environmental equipment business is mainly derived from overseas markets. Revenue from this segment increased from approximately RMB31.82 million in 2022 to approximately RMB100 million in 2024, with the gross profit margin rising to 18.9% over the same period. The relevant business has covered multiple overseas markets and has obtained certifications in China, the United States, Europe and Canada, laying a foundation for the Company’s cross-regional project execution and overseas expansion.

Using the Hong Kong Listing as a New Starting Point to Advance Long-Term Industrial Building Deployment

Following the completion of its listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, USAS has formally entered the public capital market system. In line with the development directions disclosed in the prospectus, the Company will continue to deepen its presence in the industrial building sector in the future. While consolidating its core prefabricated steel structure business, the Company will promote synergies among different business segments and steadily advance its overseas market expansion.

Against the backdrop of manufacturing investment cycles, industrial building upgrades and the gradual release of overseas demand, USAS has built a verifiable business foundation through years of project accumulation, a stable revenue scale and a gradually taking-shape overseas footprint. With the listing platform now in place, the Company’s operational capabilities and development path in the industrial prefabricated steel structure segment are expected to continue advancing under conditions of higher transparency and broader market participation.

ASUS Previews Next-Gen Zenbook DUO, First-Ever ProArt GoPro Laptop, and New AI PC Lineup Ahead of CES 2026

ASUS to kick off CES 2026 with bold new AI PCs and visionary technology that redefine what’s possible for tomorrow’s creativity and everyday life

LAS VEGAS, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ASUS announced the upcoming Always Incredible virtual launch event at CES 2026, where the company will unveil the latest portfolio of AI PCs. Streaming globally on January 6, 2026, at 09:00 PST (17:00 GMT) via the ASUS event site, the showcase will demonstrate how ASUS’s vision of Ubiquitous AI. Incredible Possibilities is shaping the future of intelligent computing and redefining user experiences across work, creativity, and daily life.

Image credit: ASUS
Image credit: ASUS

AI Designed for Real-World Impact

ASUS is committed to enhancing everyday life through AI. The company will unveil a comprehensive AI ecosystem designed to deliver intelligent assistance across its portfolio of Copilot+ PCs, lightweight laptops, and creator solutions. This is brought to life through two key initiatives: Everyday AI, which enhances daily convenience and connectivity, and Creator AI, which provides advanced tools to accelerate creative workflows.

The Future of Multitasking: The Next-Generation ASUS Zenbook DUO

Highlighting the Everyday AI vision, ASUS offered a preview of the next-generation ASUS Zenbook DUO, engineered for a revolutionary leap in mobile productivity. Crafted from innovative Ceraluminum™, its stronger and more durable form factor delivers a leap in performance and all-day battery life, redefining the workflow for modern professionals on the go.
Watch the official teaser video: The Next Chapter of ASUS Zenbook DUO

Creativity, Redefined: The First-Ever ProArt GoPro Edition

For the creator with an adventurous spirit, ASUS introduces the first-ever ProArt GoPro Edition. This groundbreaking collaboration redefines creativity for creators on the move, showcasing a transformation into a durable and premium powerhouse. Infused with GoPro’s signature blue theme, the ProArt GoPro edition is engineered for extreme conditions, empowering you to capture and craft your vision anywhere. It’s the ultimate laptop for your next adventure.
Watch the official teaser video: ProArt x GoPro

Experience the Always Incredible Launch

ASUS invites audiences worldwide to join the Always Incredible virtual launch event and discover how AI is being integrated into everyday life—unlocking new possibilities in creativity, productivity, and intelligent computing.

NOTES TO EDITORS 

ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com
ASUS Global Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asus
ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus
ASUS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asus/posts/

Contact

Jeff Lee
Head of Community, KOL, Digital Strategy
Jeff_Lee0519@asus.com

Agoda Spotlights Unique Ski Destinations in Asia for the 2026 Winter Ski Season

SINGAPORE, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As the 2026 winter ski season approaches, digital travel platform Agoda highlights some of Asia’s most unique ski destinations to enjoy the snow and the slopes. According to Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report, a survey of Asian travelers revealed that outdoor adventure and activities ranked as the fourth most popular reason to travel in 2026. With a growing interest in immersive travel experiences, skiing has become a popular activity for both first-timers and seasoned skiers across the region.

With travelers today eager to create lasting memories through immersive experiences, skiing offers a perfect blend of adventure and cultural exploration. For novices and experts alike, Asia’s ski resorts provide diverse opportunities to enjoy the snow and the surrounding attractions.

Here is Agoda’s curated list of unique ski destinations in Asia to hit the slopes:

  1. Yabuli Ski Resort, Harbin, China 
    Yabuli Ski Resort, located in Harbin, China, is renowned for its extensive ski trails and modern facilities. As the largest ski resort in China, Yabuli offers a variety of slopes suitable for all skill levels. Beyond skiing, visitors can explore the enchanting Harbin Ice Festival, where intricate ice sculptures and vibrant lights create a magical winter wonderland. The resort’s proximity to Harbin also allows travelers to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.
  2. Hakuba Valley, Hakuba, Japan
    Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Hakuba Valley is a premier ski destination known for its powdery snow and breathtaking mountain views. With over ten ski resorts in the area, Hakuba offers a diverse range of slopes and terrain parks for skiers and snowboarders. Travelers can also enjoy traditional Japanese hot springs, or onsens, after a day on the slopes. The charming village atmosphere, combined with authentic Japanese hospitality, makes Hakuba Valley a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts.
  3. High 1 Ski Resort, Jeongseon, South Korea
    High 1 Ski Resort in Jeongseon, South Korea, is celebrated for its state-of-the-art facilities and stunning natural scenery. The resort features a variety of slopes, including the longest ski run in South Korea, catering to both beginners and advanced skiers. In addition to skiing, visitors can explore the nearby Jeongseon Arirang Market, known for its vibrant local culture and traditional Korean delicacies. High 1’s proximity to Seoul also makes it easily accessible to those visiting the capital.
  4. Gulmarg Ski Resort, Gulmarg, India 
    Gulmarg Ski Resort, located in the picturesque region of Kashmir, India, offers a unique skiing experience with its pristine snow and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Known for its challenging slopes and off-piste opportunities, Gulmarg attracts adventurous skiers from around the world. Beyond skiing, travelers can immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Kashmir, exploring its historic sites and enjoying the warmth of local hospitality.

Jay Lee, Regional Director, North Asia at Agoda, shared, “Experiences and activities are among the top motivations for travel, and Asia offers a diverse array of choices for first-time and expert skiers alike. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, these destinations provide unforgettable experiences in unique cultural settings. Agoda is committed to making these destinations accessible and unforgettable for every traveler with great deals on flights, accommodations, and activities this winter season.”

For those planning their winter ski getaways, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and start planning your next adventure today.

RWA.LTD Launches Vietnam Market Expansion: Using Ho Chi Minh City as a Strategic Hub to Explore Southeast Asia Deployment Pathways for Non-Financial RWA

HONG KONG, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Against the backdrop of real-world asset (RWA) digitization gradually moving from concept to practical application worldwide, Southeast Asia is emerging as a key frontier for the next wave of innovation and experimentation. Recently, RWA.LTD officially initiated its market expansion into Vietnam, selecting Ho Chi Minh City as its entry point. Centered on the issuance structure, compliance boundaries, application scenarios, and ecosystem partnerships for non-financial RWAs, the platform will undertake a phased and systematic market entry and validation program.

In recent years, Vietnam has remained highly active in the digital economy, fintech, and blockchain-related applications. Its youthful demographic profile, rapidly expanding middle class, widespread mobile internet adoption, and the government’s relatively pragmatic policy stance toward emerging technology industries together make the country an important window for understanding real demand for Web3 and asset digitization across Southeast Asia. For RWA.LTD—positioned around the core mission of “globalizing non-financial assets”—Vietnam is not simply the endpoint of single-market expansion, but a critical node for validating the model, refining execution pathways, and building regional collaboration capabilities.

This Vietnam expansion is not a traditional “set up presence—promote—acquire users” style of market growth. Instead, RWA.LTD is adopting a market-validation-first entry strategy. The team will focus on systematically mapping local demand structures, compliance logic, partnership networks, and early-stage application scenarios. Through in-depth research and hands-on engagement, RWA.LTD will assess the feasibility and replicability of different types of non-financial assets within the Vietnam market. The core purpose of this approach is to avoid fragmented trial-and-error, and instead build a structured, realistic understanding of the market within a relatively controlled timeframe.

At the execution level, the project will be centered in Ho Chi Minh City, supported by operational and implementation resources with local experience. Through targeted market research, competitor and case studies, interviews with potential partners, and the design of localization strategies, the team will gradually build a comprehensive view of Vietnam’s RWA ecosystem. By directly engaging local enterprises, ecosystem builders, professional institutions, and potential users, RWA.LTD aims to clarify which asset categories, application scenarios, and partnership models for non-financial RWAs are most likely to achieve early deployment in Vietnam—rather than simply copying prior experience from other markets.

Notably, this market entry will not be measured solely by short-term trading volume or user counts. Greater emphasis will be placed on building “market presence” and achieving initial validation of the business model. Within the project cycle, the team will simultaneously advance small-scale pilot initiatives and scenario design, observe real market feedback, and dynamically adjust subsequent strategies based on what is learned. This incremental approach is intended to provide a clear and evidence-based foundation for larger-scale resource investments in the future.

From a broader perspective, RWA.LTD views Vietnam as one of the key hubs connecting Southeast Asia. By gradually establishing stable market insights and partnership foundations in Ho Chi Minh City, the platform aims to build a region-wide collaborative network, supporting exploration into standardization and scaling for non-financial RWAs across different countries and scenarios. This process is not only about outcomes in a single market; it is also intended to accumulate replicable experience in compliance practice, technical deployment, and ecosystem collaboration for RWAs in emerging markets.

Industry consensus increasingly suggests that the core challenge of RWA lies not only in the technology itself, but in identifying sustainable deployment pathways across different regulatory systems, cultures, and business environments. RWA.LTD’s Vietnam expansion is a pragmatic attempt conducted within this context. By breaking market entry into executable and measurable phases—rather than making a one-time bet—the initiative may be exploring not just an opportunity in one market, but a methodology for RWA deployment suited to emerging economies.

As the project progresses, on-the-ground feedback and practical outcomes from Vietnam will become an important reference for RWA.LTD’s subsequent expansion across Southeast Asia and other emerging markets. At a time when global asset digitization is accelerating, this move may become a meaningful annotation in the evolution of non-financial RWAs—from “conceptual narratives” toward “real-world applications.”