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Global Law Enforcers Seek Trend Micro’s Help in Taking Down Top Ransomware Threat Group LockBit

Trend helps shield the world from an unreleased ransomware attack and delivers advanced protection to customers


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 February 2024 – Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704) a global cybersecurity leader, today revealed its critical role in helping global law enforcement partners disrupt mega-ransomware group LockBit, and kill the viability of its long-term malware plans. Through undercover infiltration, Trend helped prevent the release of the group’s next malware products and automatically installed protection for Trend Micro customers, even before the group themselves had finished testing.

Robert McArdle, a leader in Trend Micro’s cybercrime research team and collaborator with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and National Crime Agency (NCA), said: “We are honored that our threat intelligence is uniquely valuable to global law enforcement in the shared mission to make the world safer.”

This group was responsible for about 25 percent* of all ransomware leaks in 2023 and caused billions of dollars in losses for thousands of global victims over the past four years.

McArdle continued, “Last week Trend secured global Microsoft users from a critical vulnerability and this week we were a part of dethroning the most critical threat actor group in the world. Now, insiders aren’t naïve enough to assume this will eliminate the crime group, but we know that no sane criminal would want to be involved with this group again.”

Details from behind the scenes are unfolding and include cryptocurrency seizure, arrests, indictments, imposing sanctions and additional technical support for victims. The operation took over LockBit’s leak site, disclosing information and personal identities of group members and details of their previous works. These actions essentially make the group unwelcome and untrusted in the cybercrime world—and therefore unviable as an underground business.

Ransomware is one of the most serious cyber threats facing organizations today, known for disrupting schools, hospitals, governments, and businesses and imperiling critical national infrastructure. It does all of this while lining the pockets of a few small cybercrime groups: last year, victims paid over $1 billion to these groups and their affiliates, a record figure.

This work ultimately supported the following outcomes:

  • Trend’s delivery of protection in advance against LockBit-NG-Dev for its customers.
  • The neutralization of a potentially prolific strain of ransomware— preventing its use in future enterprises these actors may look to run
  • A law enforcement operation that will hopefully see the end of LockBit as we know it and sets a new benchmark for international collaboration across law enforcement and private partners.

While LockBit was, without doubt, the largest and most impactful Ransomware operation globally, this disruption makes it very clear that all criminal affiliates should strongly reconsider any involvement with them in the future and that in partnering with this organization, these associates have put themselves at increased risk of law enforcement action.

An upcoming blog will cover findings from Trend’s analysis of the next version of LockBit ransomware malware will be issued Thursday by NCA and will be made available here: https://www.trendmicro.com/en_hk/research/24/b/lockbit-attempts-to-stay-afloat-with-a-new-version.html

*Based on Trend Micro analysis and tracking of ransomware leak sites, LockBit accounted for approximately 25 percent of all ransomware leaks in 2023.
Hashtag: #trendmicro #visionone #trendvisionone #lockbit




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

About Trend Micro

Trend Micro, a global cybersecurity leader, helps make the world safe for exchanging digital information. Fueled by decades of security expertise, global threat research, and continuous innovation, Trend Micro’s cybersecurity platform protects hundreds of thousands of organizations and millions of individuals across clouds, networks, devices, and endpoints. As a leader in cloud and enterprise cybersecurity, the platform delivers a powerful range of advanced threat defense techniques optimized for environments like AWS, Microsoft, and Google, and central visibility for better, faster detection and response. With 7,000 employees across 65 countries, Trend Micro enables organizations to simplify and secure their connected world.

OOm Launches Digital Tech Academy to Empower Learners Through Knowledge


SINGAPORE – Media Outreach Newswire – 23 February 2024 – OOm, an award-winning digital marketing agency in Singapore with 17 years of experience, proudly announces the launch of the Academy. It is a training centre set to transform individuals and businesses through lifelong learning, providing education tailored for adults.

Group photo at the grand opening of OOm Academy
Group photo at the grand opening of OOm Academy

Establishing Excellence Since 2006

Founded in 2006, OOm has emerged as a trailblazer and is recognised as a Premier Google Partner and Meta Business Partner, standing in the top 3% of Google Partners in Singapore. As one of Singapore’s Fastest Growing Companies, the agency has consistently delivered effective digital marketing solutions to businesses of all sizes, ranging from SMEs to MNCs. Now, with the inauguration of the Academy, OOm is set to expand its wealth of expertise with the commitment to lead in adult education, as well as train and equip individuals and businesses with workforce-ready skill sets.

Shaping Tomorrow, Today

The Academy is committed to meeting the escalating demand for lifelong learning by providing individuals and businesses with the knowledge and skills required to excel in the dynamic working world. As an Approved Training Organisation (ATO), OOm offers a range of Workforce Skills Qualifications-certified (WSQ) courses that have been vetted by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) and designed to equip learners with practical, transferable and in-demand skills. Learners can choose OOm with confidence, knowing that they have earned the esteemed status of an ATO after meeting the stringent standards set by SSG.

The team’s mission is clear — to train and impart workforce-ready skill sets to individuals and businesses, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the future economy.

Elevating Skills With OOm

OOm takes pride in being a trusted agency with a remarkable 17-year legacy. Their expertise is a guarantee that the learning experience will be enriched with insights and knowledge from the forefront of the industry.

The WSQ-certified courses include a comprehensive Generative AI Series, as well as a diverse array of holistic offerings such as the Google Marketing Series and Social Media Marketing Series, crafted to go beyond theoretical concepts. They also immerse learners in real-life case studies that find direct application in the workplace. Tailored for the local market, the content ensures that learners not only understand the concepts but can seamlessly apply them in their workplace, giving them a competitive edge.

“With the Academy, we aim to bridge the gap in digital and tech education and beyond, empowering individuals to stay relevant in the working world. Through practical insights and real-world applications, we position our learners for success, ensuring they thrive in the ever-changing landscape,” shared Ian Cheow, CEO and Co-Founder of OOm.

Empowering Diverse Learners

The courses cater to both individuals and corporations looking to thrive in the digital era, and eligible Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs) can access substantial support with up to 70% funding. Individuals seeking to elevate their existing skill sets or embark on a new career path will find a welcoming space at the Academy. Meticulously crafted courses cater to diverse needs, helping learners acquire the necessary expertise for success in the working world. Furthermore, individuals have the flexibility to leverage their SkillsFuture Credits to offset any remaining course fees.

SMEs striving to stay ahead in the digital age can also benefit from the Academy’s tailored corporate training programmes with a subsidy of up to 70% of course fees. Participants acquire valuable insights, knowledge, and practical skills specific to their roles, empowering them to contribute more effectively to the organisation’s digital and tech initiatives.

Prime Setting and Amenities at the Academy

The digital marketing training centre is nestled in proximity to Bugis and Bencoolen MRT stations while the state-of-the-art classrooms offer an optimal environment that fosters learning and growth. During classes, learners can also indulge in complimentary breakfast, lunch, and tea breaks to help them remain energised and focused.

“In our learning environment, we cultivate curiosity, nurture creativity, and empower every student. It’s not just about education, but about emerging with the knowledge and confidence to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly evolving industry,” said Serena Chen, General Manager of the Academy.

Hashtag: #OOm #OOmAcademy #DigitalMarketing




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

About OOm Academy

The Academy is the educational arm of OOm, offering WSQ-certified courses in digital, tech and beyond to individuals and corporations. Grounded in the philosophy of lifelong learning, their courses go beyond conventional education by fostering an environment where individuals are not only equipped with current skills, but are also empowered to embrace continuous learning. Their commitment extends to helping individuals proactively upskill and reskill, ensuring they meet the demands of the present and stay perpetually relevant.

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Laos Adjusts Passport Issuance Fees, Service Charges in USD, Collected in Lao Kip

Lao Residents Vent Frustrations Over Passport Application Process

The Consular Department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Laos has issued a notice regarding the adjustment of fees and service charges for passport issuance, effective on 4 March, to simplify passport procedures and ensure the sustainability of service provision.

ATD Solution Set to Launch All-New Upskilling and Reskilling Programme on 29 February for Aspiring Enterprise Architects


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 February 2024 – In the fast-paced landscape of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in Singapore, the wave of digital transformation is reshaping industries at an unprecedented rate. More and more companies are embracing technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and data analytics, highlighting the need for skilled professionals who can navigate and drive these transformations. In direct response to this pressing need, ATD Solution, a consulting firm specialising in Digital Enterprise Architecture (EA), proudly unveils its innovative Upskilling and Reskilling Programme. Scheduled to launch on 29 February 2024, this initiative is designed for individuals seeking a career upgrade or transition into the role of a Certified Enterprise Architect.

ATD Solution’s New Upskilling and Reskilling Programme for Aspiring Enterprise Architects
ATD Solution’s New Upskilling and Reskilling Programme for Aspiring Enterprise Architects

Navigating the Digital Era: Overcoming Challenges in Enterprise Digital Transformation
Businesses are now acutely aware of the role that digital transformation plays in their survival and success. As such, staying competitive and achieving organisational goals are intricately linked to the ability to adapt, innovate, and harness the power of digital technologies. But while these transformations hold the promise of substantial benefits, organisations often encounter challenges that can impede their progress. These challenges that are faced by enterprises embarking on their digital transformation journey include:

1. People

  • Mismatched Skills – The rapid evolution of technology often outpaces the skills of the workforce, leading to a significant skills gap. This mismatch between the skills employees possess and those required by the organisation creates inefficiencies in day-to-day operations.
  • Communication Breakdown – Ineffective communication and collaboration among team members can result in misunderstandings, delays, and errors. These communication challenges hinder the smooth flow of information critical for decision-making and problem-solving.Technology

2. Technology

  • Systems and Integration Challenges – Many organisations grapple with outdated systems that hinder technological advancements. Integrating new technologies becomes a complex task, leading to compatibility issues and reduced agility in responding to market demands.
  • Cybersecurity Concerns – With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, organisations face the daunting task of securing their digital assets. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities can lead to data breaches, compromising sensitive information and damaging the company’s reputation.

3. Process

  • Inefficient Workflows – Complicated and inefficient processes can result in delays, errors, and increased operational costs. Streamlining workflows and optimising processes are essential for enhancing productivity and ensuring the timely delivery of products and services.
  • Lack of Scalability – Organisations often struggle to scale their operations to meet growing demands. Inflexible processes can hinder the ability to adapt to market changes, making it challenging to seize new opportunities and remain competitive.

Elevating Business Architecture Excellence – ATD Solution’s Upskilling and Reskilling Programme
Understanding these organisational efficiencies, the demand for individuals skilled in Enterprise Architecture is more important than ever, especially since the success of any business architecture depends on the proficiency and expertise of the professionals leading its implementation.

ATD Solution recognises this demand and is set to address it through its all-new Upskilling and Reskilling Programme. This programme serves as a strategic pathway for individuals aspiring to advance in their business architecture careers, providing them with the essential skills and knowledge to navigate the ever-changing ICT industry successfully.

Aligned with current industry standards, ATD Solution’s programme mirrors the findings of the Workforce Singapore report, which identifies Business Analyst as the #1 emerging job opportunity in the ICT sector. Furthermore, Glassdoor’s 2022 report acknowledges Enterprise Architect as the top job in America. The Upskilling and Reskilling Programme, with its focus on producing Certified Enterprise Architects, directly addresses these industry needs and demands.

Additionally, the soaring demand for Enterprise Architects in both the local and international job markets underscores the relevance and significance of ATD Solution’s initiative. By offering a programme that blends technical skills with critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning capabilities, ATD Solution ensures that participants are well-equipped to excel in their roles as Enterprise Architects.

”ATD Solution’s Upskilling and Reskilling Programme stands at the forefront of cultivating excellence in Business Architecture. As the ICT landscape rapidly evolves, our programme not only acknowledges but actively embraces the demand for proficient leadership in key areas like support engineering, infrastructure management, security analysis, and quality assurance” said Alecia Heng, Chief Business Architect at ATD Solution.

As the business landscape continues to transform, ATD Solution’s commitment to providing a robust platform for skill development and knowledge enhancement stands as a testament to its dedication to shaping the future leaders of the ICT industry. The Upskilling and Reskilling Programme not only meets the immediate demands of the industry but also prepares professionals to proactively adapt to future advancements, making it a valuable investment for individuals seeking to thrive in the competitive field of business architecture.

ATD Solution also offers specialised Enterprise Architecture courses and training programmes tailored to empower your team. These programmes are supported by the Institute of Banking and Finance (IBF) and SkillsFuture Singapore. Avail up to a 70% course fee subsidy for Singaporeans and Singapore PRs through these programmes.
Hashtag: #businessarchitecture #managementconsultingservices #DigitalEnterpriseArchitecture




YouTube:

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

ATD Solution

ATD Solution, established in 2006, is a leading consulting firm specialising in Digital Enterprise Architecture (EA). Widely known as an industry leader in Asia, ATD Solution provides . With a focus on driving continuous transformation in the digital era, ATD Solution encourages businesses to integrate EA into their operations.

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Delivery Hero Ends Talks to Sell Foodpanda in Southeast Asia 

Delivery Hero Ends Talks to Sell Foodpanda in Southeast Asia 
Foodpanda delivery person. (Photo: Rappler)

Following months of negotiations, Berlin-based multinational online food ordering and delivery company Delivery Hero has ended talks of the potential sale of its Southeast Asian market with an undisclosed third party.

Octa – Safety comes first: 4 reasons to invest with a global broker


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 February 2024 – In search of a consistent source of supplementary income, many ambitious investors opt for trading Forex and CFDs (contracts for difference), which offer quick potential returns and a low entry threshold. But choosing a secure financial platform with a wide range of tradable assets and secure withdrawal of funds remains a problem. The current investing landscape is highly diversified, and the number of brokerage houses available to traders is larger than ever. Another point to consider when opening a Forex account is the safety of your funds and personal data. Here, we offer some valid reasons why it’s a good idea to trade with a globally recognized Forex broker.

While the conservative wealth management options offer modest interest rates barely sufficient to outpace the inflation, people in Southeast Asia tend to look for more profitable approaches such as investing. A transparent, dynamic, and legitimate way to protect and multiply personal funds, retail investing is especially attractive due to its low entry threshold and high control over personal capital.

Octa

Choosing between a wide variety of available options, ambitious investors who have to make do with limited resources opt for contracts for difference (CFDs) and Forex market trading. But before this journey starts, it’s important to take the first—and one of the most crucial—steps towards your future financial goals: choosing a reliable broker.

Here, our experts at Octa, an investment platform that operates in over 180 countries, put forward four arguments why choosing a globally recognisable Forex broker will help you build a solid foundation for a successful trading experience.

1. Advanced security capabilities
The fear of losing their funds to fraud or not being able to withdraw their gains is looming over many current and prospective traders. There is only one way to get rid of this fear once and for good: find an experienced and trustworthy broker with a holistic approach to the security of user data and clients’ funds. With that in mind, traders would be better off with choosing a broker with a long and successful track record, which serves as an especially reliable safety guarantee. If these conditions are met, you will be able to fully rely on your broker and invest without a shadow of a doubt in your mind.

A globally recognised and time-proven broker since 2011, Octa uses segregated user accounts to differentiate between its working capital and its clients’ investments. By keeping them in segregated accounts, the broker ensures that the clients’ trading capital is not used for any purpose other than to meet the trading or margin requirements. Octa also offers a seamless and quick withdrawal experience that gives traders full control over their capital.

Being exposed to international security standards and practices is instrumental for brokerage businesses in providing a safe trading experience to their customers. To ensure state-of-the-art anti-fraud protection, secure and fast withdrawal of funds, and compliance with the latest cybersecurity protocols, a financial platform needs to regularly update its knowledge bases, follow the latest recommendations from international institutions, and actively research the most recent industry-specific cases. Global brokers have a much easier access to these advantages.

2. Superior investing experience
Imagine a famous athlete who has gained an international renown by successfully playing in some of the best leagues on the planet. Such a player would be regarded as a highly desirable asset by any team because his diverse experience is matched only by his outstanding achievements. The same is true for financial brokers: the more international experience they have, the better. By adopting best international practices and adhering to international standards, they improve user experience to drive better customer satisfaction.

Globally recognised brokers have the resources and incentives to invest in developing and implementing new technology. They can scale these solutions to drive efficient international operations and customise them to meet the specific needs of users in each region.

With their extensive, well-rounded experience, globally recognised financial brokers boast quite a few advantages over their competitors, including cross-platform support of their applications, continuous improvement of user experience, and establishing the highest standards in customer service.

3. Higher liquidity
Brokers serve as intermediaries between financial institutions and retail investors, helping the latter get into the markets even with a modest amount of funds under their belt. Brokerage houses also provide leverage, an essential tool for those traders who are pressed for time and go after immediate profits. Given that, global presence and a variety of licences held by a broker in various regions allows it to connect with more liquidity providers, which means more trades, higher liquidity, and, as a result, better quotes for individual investors.

By accessing multiple regional financial markets, brokers gain the opportunity to offer more instruments to their customers by engaging with a wider variety of financial institutions. In its turn, a broader range of assets offers a more diversified investing landscape for traders, enabling them to customise their portfolios according to their long-term financial goals, opening capital, and investing style.

To sum up, the wider the geographical reach, the better terms and a wider variety of tradable assets a broker can offer to the customers.

4. A wider range of resources
Reputable brokers use their global expertise to offer a variety of information resources to their clients, help them make smarter decisions, and improve their trading by introducing additional features to financial platforms. Geographical reach plays an important role in broker’s ability to provide supplementary tools and educational materials to traders, since each region serves as a testing ground and yields invaluable data.

The interchanging of ideas and practices between different regions also plays the role of a catalyst to develop proprietary tools and courses. For global brokers, the process of making their clients’ trading experience smoother is a natural consequence of their wide reach and exposure to various mindsets and specific regional features.

Investing in the Forex market is a solid and comprehensible way to protect and increase your personal savings. One of the first—and most important—steps on your investing journey is choosing a Forex broker, and this choice should be made based on your personal financial goals and other factors. Having said that, companies with global recognition and multiregional experience have an upper hand in comparison with others. International presence allows financial brokers to step up their security practices, improve user experience, and offer their clients better trading conditions.

Hashtag: #Octa

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

Octa

is an international broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services already utilised by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 42 million trading accounts. Free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools they provide help clients reach their investment goals.

The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.

In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Most Secure Broker Indonesia 2022’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from International Business Magazine and Global Forex Awards, respectively.

First Phosphate Project Receives Letter of Support from Mario Simard, Canadian Parliamentary Deputy for the Riding of Jonquière, Québec


SAGUENAY, QUEBEC – Newsfile Corp. – 22 February 2024 – First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS) (OTC: FRSPF) (FSE: KD0) (“First Phosphate” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has received a letter of support for its mining project and planned purified phosphoric acid plant from the Hon. Mario Simard, Member of Parliament (BQ) for the Riding of Jonquière, Québec.

Mr. Simard, first elected to Canadian parliament in 2019, is the vice-chair of the Standing Committee on Natural Resources and is the critic for natural resources for the Bloc Québécois.

“The team at First Phosphate appreciates the support that Mr. Simard and his staff have provided to us since the very beginning of our concept of establishing the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region of Quebec as the LFP Battery Valley of North America,” says First Phosphate CEO, John Passalacqua. “In Canada, we need leadership that backs major projects and that supports job creation in local economies, especially an economy with the potential of Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, Quebec.”

Mr. Simard’s letter of support for the First Phosphate project may be found at:
https://firstphosphate.com/mariosimard.pdf

Mr. Simard states the following in his letter:

“In the current context of climate change, all efforts to undertake the energy transition in a concrete way must be supported and encouraged. In this respect, phosphate is a key element in the development of the battery industry. Not only are lithium iron phosphate (“LFP”) batteries non-toxic and have the advantage of superior fire protection, but they also contribute directly towards the green-energy transition. They provide the electric vehicle sector with environmentally-friendly batteries through their production process powered by our clean Quebec hydroelectric grid.”

“Thanks to the availability of phosphate (amongst the purest 1% in the world), our region has the potential to establish itself as a true leader in the energy transition, all through the development of a LFP battery industry. What’s more, the development of First Phosphate’s project facilities could contribute to the diversification of our regional economy with the potential to help create an additional 1,000 to 10,000 jobs in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean.”

“This is why, as MP for the federal riding of Jonquière, I support a project as important as that of First Phosphate for the development of LFP battery in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region.”

Canadian Federal Riding of Jonquière Québec and Locations of the First Phosphate Project

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8917/198819_78a7aa0564790804_001full.jpg

About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate is a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the Lithium Iron Phosphate (“LFP”) battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, in responsible manner and with low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to vertically integrate from mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery grade LFP cathode active material emanating from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds over 1,500 sq. km of royalty-free district-scale land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate properties consist of rare anorthosite igneous phosphate rock that generally yields high purity phosphate materially devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

For additional information, please contact:

Bennett Kurtz, CFO
bennett@firstphosphate.com
Tel: +1 (416) 200-0657

Investor Relations: investor@firstphosphate.com
Media Relations: media@firstphosphate.com
Website: www.FirstPhosphate.com

Follow First Phosphate:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FirstPhosphate
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-phosphate

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Forward-Looking Information and Cautionary Statements

This news release contains certain statements and information that may be considered “forward-looking statements” and “forward looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. In some cases, but not necessarily in all cases, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “targets”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “an opportunity exists”, “is positioned”, “estimates”, “intends”, “assumes”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate” or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved” and other similar expressions. In addition, statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward looking statements, including, among other things, the Company’s planned exploration and production activities, the properties and composition of any extracted phosphate, the Company’s plans for vertical integration into North American supply chains and the establishment of the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region of Quebec as the LFP Battery Valley of North America.

These statements and other forward-looking information are based on assumptions and estimates that the Company believes are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances, including, without limitation, expectations of the Company’s long term business outcomes given its short operating history; expectations regarding revenue, expenses and operations; the Company having sufficient working capital and ability to secure additional funding necessary for the exploration of the Company’s property interests; expectations regarding the potential mineralization, geological merit and economic feasibility of the Company’s projects; expectations regarding drill programs and the potential impacts successful drill programs could have on the life of the mine and the Company; mineral exploration and exploration program cost estimates; expectations regarding any environmental issues that may affect planned or future exploration programs and the potential impact of complying with existing and proposed environmental laws and regulations; receipt and timing of exploration and exploitation permits and other third-party approvals; government regulation of mineral exploration and development operations; expectations regarding any social or local community issues that may affect planned or future exploration and development programs; expectations surrounding global economic trends and technological advancements; and key personnel continuing their employment with the Company.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include: limited operating history; high risk of business failure; no profits or significant revenues; limited resources; negative cash flow from operations and dependence on third-party financing; the uncertainty of additional funding; no dividends; risks related to possible fluctuations in revenues and results; insurance and uninsured risks; litigation; reliance on management and key personnel; conflicts of interest; access to supplies and materials; dangers of mineral exploration and related liability and damages; risks relating to health and safety; government regulation and legal uncertainties; the company’s exploration and development properties may not be successful and are highly speculative in nature; dependence on outside parties; title to some of the Company’s mineral properties may be challenged or defective; Aboriginal title and land claims; obtaining and renewing licenses and permits; environmental and other regulatory risks may adversely affect the company; risks relating to climate change; risks related to infrastructure; land reclamation requirements may be burdensome; current global financial conditions; fluctuation in commodity prices; dilution; future sales by existing shareholders could cause the Company’s share price to fall; fluctuation and volatility in stock exchange prices; and risks related to market demands. There can be no assurance that any opportunity will be successful, commercially viable, completed on time or on budget, or will generate any meaningful revenues, savings or earnings, as the case may be, for the Company. In addition, the Company will incur costs in pursuing any particular opportunity, which may be significant.

These factors and assumptions are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors and assumptions that could affect the Company and, though they should be considered carefully, should be considered in conjunction with the risk factors described in the Company’s other documents filed with the Canadian securities authorities, including without limitation the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Information Form dated November 29, 2023 which is available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Company has attempted to identify factors that would cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those disclosed in the forward-looking information or information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

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

About First Phosphate Corp.

Classy Kiss and Uni-China Group Enter into Strategic Cooperation Team Up to Venture into the Yogurt Product Market in Hong Kong

The first three products are now available at more than 1,000 points of sales in Hong Kong


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 February 2024 – Classy Kiss, the number one yogurt brand in Southern China, has entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with Uni-China Group, under which Uni-China Group will serve as Classy Kiss’s sole distributor in Hong Kong to launch Classy Kiss’s yogurt products in the Hong Kong market. The signing and launch ceremony was held today. According to the cooperation agreement, Uni-China Group will introduce Classy Kiss’s iconic products to local consumers through its retail network across Hong Kong and its high-end cold chain logistics distribution system. The first three products to be launched in the Hong Kong market, including “007 Probiotic Family Pack Yogurt (Original)”, “One Hour After Meal”, and “Natural Yogurt”, are now available at designated retail outlets across the city, including ParknShop, Wellcome, U Select, Bao Dim Sin Seng, and FRESH, and will also be available at Circle K Convenience Stores and 7-Eleven at the end of February and March, respectively, totaling over 1,000 points of sales.

Classy Kiss, Uni-China and all artists
Classy Kiss, Uni-China and all artists

Classy Kiss is the number one yogurt brand in Southern China in terms of sales volume. It has been focusing on the research and development of low-temperature dairy products since its establishment 24 years ago. Classy Kiss’s yogurt is made from top international strains fermented with high-quality fresh cow’s milk, which meets EU standards. The products have been awarded the SGS Global Dairy Industry Gold Standard Certification and The Superior Taste Award. Classy Kiss products lead the market in four aspects: source of milk, bacterial strains, craftsmanship, and quality.

The first three products launched in Hong Kong will be transported to various points of sales across the city by Uni-China Group’s dedicated cold chain logistics team. The team’s logistics solution combines nearly HK$100 million in investment in artificial intelligence and automation system equipment, making it the first service provider in Hong Kong to offer seamless automated cold chain logistics solutions to customers, effectively ensuring the preservation of quality and food safety of products to the highest standard.

Wang Weijia, Founder and General Manager of Classy Kiss, said, “Hong Kong is an important member of the Greater Bay Area and a window to the international market. Classy Kiss’s entry into the Hong Kong market not only complements our strategic plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, but also enhances our brand’s competitiveness and prepares us for future overseas market development. We are pleased to cooperate with Uni-China Group, which provides reliable support with its sizeable retail network, extensive experience in food trading, and seamless cold-chain logistics system. As travelling to Mainland China has become a trend for Hong Kong people in recent months, weare introducing our flagship products directly to Hong Kong to give its consumers the freshest and safest high-quality product experience through the most convenient shopping channels.”

Jackie Ling, Chairman of Uni-China Group, said, “We are honored to become Classy Kiss’s strategic partner to capture the business opportunities in the rapidly growing yogurt market and bring quality yogurt products that are renowned in Southern Mainland China to local consumers. With our experience in retail and food trading, extensive distribution network, and a seamless automated cold chain logistics system, we can ensure that the yogurt products are in the best quality and the most stringent food safety is upheld throughout the cold chain transportation process. This strategic cooperation fully leverages the Group’s advantages in various aspects. Going forward, we will continue to source and introduce different food brands from around the world to provide consumers with a wider range of high-quality food options.”

Classy Kiss products are now available in designated retail outlets across Hong Kong, including ParknShop, Wellcome, U Select, Bao Dim Sin Seng, and FRESH, and will also be available at Circle K Convenience Stores and 7-Eleven by the end of February and March, respectively, totaling over 1,000 points of sales.

Hashtag: #UniChinaGroup

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

About Classy Kiss

Established in 1999, Classy Kiss is a modern professional dairy product enterprise that integrates research, production, sales, and cold chain logistics. It is the only large-scale dairy product enterprise in China that focuses on yogurt production. Classy has been focusing on low-temperature yogurt for 24 years, with a professional product team, logistics team, production factory, and leading quality systems including ISO9001 and HACCP certifications. Over the years, Classy Kiss has adhered to a product strategy of “high grade, high quality, high standards”, successfully creating the Classy Kiss range of yogurt product and becoming the preferred brand in the white-collar consumer market and high-end dairy product market.

About Uni-China Group

With nearly 25 years of experience in Hong Kong, Uni-China Group has been playing an important role in the operation and management of different sectors based on the local business landscape. The Group has evolved from a commercial entity to a diversified business with a consistent commitment to excellence. The Group has a wide range of businesses, including retail, food and beverage, food trading, asset management, integrated marketing and marketing. Today, the Group manages about 1,000 stores in Hong Kong, and is not only a leader in various industries, but also plays a key role in promoting traditional culture and future development. Uni-China currently employs around 5,000 employees, and the entire team is dedicated, professional and committed to achieving excellence in all aspects. Uni-China is committed to promoting the sustainable development of its business scope and community services, fulfilling its corporate social responsibility, and maintaining its leading position in the industry.