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Horgos: A global hub where opportunity and belonging attract international entrepreneurs

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BEIJING, July 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A report from People’s Daily:

Horgos, situated within the Ili Kazak autonomous prefecture of China’s Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, stands as a pivotal gateway for China’s westward opening-up.

Once a key staging post along ancient trade routes where camel bells echoed across the Gobi Desert,  today the city has become a vibrant business magnet, drawing investors and entrepreneurs from Central Asia and Europe.

For an increasing number of foreign businesspeople, Horgos is no longer just a destination for trade trips — it  has become a second home they keep returning to.

As dawn approaches, cross-border trucks queue efficiently at the Horgos highway port, navigating customs procedures.

Kazakh businessman Ilyas, with 14 years of experience in the Horgos fruit and vegetable trade, has witnessed this transformation firsthand.

Fresh produce trade depends heavily on swift clearance; delays lead to significant losses as perishable goods spoil quickly. Previously, Ilyas would arrive before daybreak just to secure precious delivery time.

To address sluggish customs procedures and high spoilage rates for fresh agricultural products, Horgos Customs established a China-Kazakhstan “green channel” for agricultural products, offering priority inspections and immediate release upon arrival.

The new arrangements have created a fresh rhythm for cross-border produce trade: goods picked in the morning can clear customs the same day and reach markets that very night, allowing high-quality Chinese agricultural products to reach overseas consumers while still fresh.

Recent years have seen new energy vehicle (NEV) exports emerge as a major growth driver for Horgos trade. Recognising the strong demand for Chinese electric vehicles across Central Asia, Kazakh businessman Khambati seized the opportunity, registered a company in Horgos, and entered the vehicle export logistics business.

To facilitate NEV exports, Horgos Customs introduced a fast-track clearance scheme for self-driven export commercial vehicles, significantly streamlining offline procedures and moving the entire process online.

The average customs processing time has been reduced from more than 30 hours to less than five. Standardized workflows, intelligent services and around-the-clock operational support have made Khambati’s logistics operations highly predictable and significantly improved delivery efficiency.

Horgos has also pioneered a new multilingual cross-border livestreaming business model, the first of its kind in Xinjiang. The local government provides free exclusive live-stream venues, builds professional livestream bases, and runs regular training courses for new streamers, offering hands-on guidance on product sourcing and account operation.

Today, over 20 livestreaming studios in the commercial building of the China-Kazakhstan Horgos International Border Cooperation Center stay busy with nonstop broadcasts, selling Chinese cosmetics, clothing and daily necessities to consumers in Central Asia and Europe.

Kazakh livestreamer Alten Asenbek moved into the Horgos cross-border e-commerce livestreaming base last December. Starting with barely any orders, he has now built a social media following of over 26,000, with peak hourly sales hitting 14,500 yuan (about $2,134).

At the Dastarkhan restaurant inside the Center, visiting merchants and local residents often gather around tables to chat.

Locals fondly call this little diner the “Sisters Restaurant.”It is a successful cross-border business jointly founded by Kazakh entrepreneur Toktabayeva Almira Sansiba and her Chinese partner Guli.

Recently, thanks to supportive policies, more than 80 percent of the restaurants, retail stores and accommodation providers inside the cooperation center have completed upgrades to their point-of-sale terminals. The new system supports dual-currency settlement in Chinese yuan and Kazakh tenge, and accepts international credit cards alongside mainstream domestic and overseas mobile payment methods.

 “The process is fast and secure,” Sansiba explained. “Customers simply scan a code to pay. Tenge amounts are automatically converted, and yuan funds arrive directly in our accounts.”

Booming business has turned Horgos into her second home. “I’ve made friends from all over the world. Diners stay for tea and long conversations after meals, just like family. We are no longer mere travelers; we have become part of one big family.”

Beyond creating a business-friendly environment, Horgos has continued to improve public services for foreign residents by leveraging talent policies associated with the pilot free trade zone and its broader opening-up initiatives.

In January last year, Uzbek businessman Bekzati relocated his family to Horgos to start a local business. Unfamiliar with both the language and local policies, he became deeply worried about finding schools for his three children. Community staff proactively reached out and eventually helped resolve his children’s schooling issue.

Catering to the large flow of foreign truck drivers and merchants passing through the port, the Yingtar community in the Horgos Industrial Park subdistrict has launched regular consultation sessions for international residents, targeting and addressing  their practical concerns.

With maturing public services and attentive, inclusive governance, Horgos is becoming a place that overseas merchants not only want to visit, but are also eager to return to, and, for many, a place they now call home.

 

Atlas Lithium Receives Strong Product Demand; On Track for Commercial Production in 2027

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Boca Raton, Florida – Newsfile Corp. – July 13, 2026 – Atlas Lithium Corporation (NASDAQ: ATLX) (“Atlas Lithium” or the “Company”) today announced that it is on track for first commercial production of lithium oxide concentrate in the fourth quarter of 2027. The Company’s 100%-owned and fully permitted Neves Project will feature a vertically integrated mining and processing industrial complex designed to produce approximately 150,000 tonnes of high-quality lithium oxide concentrate per year, a key component of the global battery supply chain for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Reflecting the strength of the Neves Project, Atlas Lithium has received written product interest from multiple companies totaling more than three times its planned production capacity.

At the Neves Project, Atlas Lithium is building a socially anchored, sustainable operation that adds value domestically. The Company anticipates that its fully integrated facility will generate more than 5,000 direct and indirect jobs in the Jequitinhonha Valley, a developing region of Minas Gerais State in Brazil. Atlas Lithium maintains strong community relations and is committed to prioritizing local hiring and training for its operations. The Company’s full-time employees in the Jequitinhonha Valley already earn, on average, twice the prevailing local wage and receive healthcare coverage and other benefits that exceed regional standards. This approach has strengthened the Company’s social license to operate and fostered long-term partnerships with local communities.

Highlights

  • On Track for Q4 2027 First Production: Transitioning Atlas Lithium from developer to producer.
  • Fully Permitted Through Commercial Production: A major risk of any project has been eliminated.
  • Strong Market Interest: Written product interest cumulatively exceeds three times planned production capacity.
  • Robust Projected Economics: DFS results show a 145% after-tax IRR and an 11-month payback period, with operating costs of $489 per tonne versus recent market prices of roughly $2,300 per tonne.
  • Strong Employment and Social Contribution: Atlas Lithium’s Jequitinhonha Valley employees already earn twice the local wage and more than 5,000 additional direct and indirect jobs will be created.

Recent months have seen marked progress on-site, in partnership with leading Brazilian technical and engineering firms:

  • Promon Engenharia – Detailed engineering
  • TSX Engineering – Project management, cost control, planning, and risk management
  • Cerne Construções – Engineering, procurement, and construction of facilities
  • RETC Infraestrutura – Earthworks and civil construction
  • Alfa Engenharia – Electromechanical assembly

All partner contracts were finalized at or below Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) budget levels, underscoring Atlas Lithium’s disciplined cost management and project execution.

“We believe the Neves Project ranks among the most capital-efficient lithium developments worldwide, and it is clear that global lithium buyers have taken notice,” said Marc Fogassa, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Atlas Lithium. “Our continued progress reflects disciplined and methodical execution across every front – permitting, contracting, and engineering. Importantly, we are already creating some of the best jobs in the Jequitinhonha Valley, and our continued growth will translate into further gains for our communities and the local economy.”

Atlas Lithium holds the largest lithium exploration portfolio in Brazil among publicly listed companies – approximately 557 square kilometers of mineral rights across the country’s premier lithium districts. Over time, the Company intends to build on this footprint by expanding industrial capacity at the Neves Project and developing additional processing facilities across its broader project portfolio, thereby positioning Atlas Lithium to scale production as global lithium demand grows, driven by the expected long-term expansion of artificial intelligence data centers and continued electric vehicle adoption.

About Atlas Lithium Corporation
Atlas Lithium Corporation (NASDAQ: ATLX) is a lithium development company focused on advancing its Neves Project to production. The Neves Project is fully permitted, and its Definitive Feasibility Study demonstrates robust economics with a 145% IRR and an 11-month payback. With approximately 557 square kilometers of lithium mineral rights, Atlas Lithium owns the largest lithium exploration footprint in Brazil among publicly listed companies. Additionally, Atlas Lithium currently holds an approximate 20% ownership stake in Atlas Critical Minerals Corporation (NASDAQ: ATCX).

Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are based upon the current plans, estimates and projections of Atlas Lithium and its subsidiaries and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. Such statements include, among others, those concerning market and industry segment growth and demand and acceptance of new and existing products; any projections of production, reserves, sales, earnings, revenue, margins or other financial items; any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; uncertainties related to conducting business in Brazil, as well as all assumptions, expectations, predictions, intentions or beliefs about future events. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements: Atlas Lithium’s ability to successfully assemble and begin operations of its modular plant; reaching estimated production, development plans and cost estimates for the Neves Lithium Project as reported in the Definitive Feasibility Study (the “DFS”), included as Exhibit 96.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, filed with the SEC on August 4, 2025; discrepancies between actual and estimated mineral reserves and mineral resources, between actual and estimated development and operating costs, and between estimated and actual production; results from ongoing geotechnical analysis of projects; business conditions in Brazil; general economic conditions, geopolitical events, and regulatory changes; availability of capital; Atlas Lithium’s ability to maintain its competitive position; manipulative attempts by short sellers to drive down our stock price; and dependence on key management.

Additional risks related to the Company and its subsidiaries are more fully discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 4, 2026. Please also refer to the Company’s other filings with the SEC, all of which are available at www.sec.gov. In addition, any forward-looking statements represent the Company’s views only as of today and should not be relied upon as representing its views as of any subsequent date. The Company explicitly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements unless as otherwise required by applicable law.

Investor Relations
Gary Guyton
Vice President, Investor Relations
+1 (833) 661-7900
gary.guyton@atlas-lithium.com
https://www.atlas-lithium.com/
@Atlas_Lithium

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/304861

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

First Phosphate Closes Final Tranche of Oversubscribed Private Placement

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Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Québec – Newsfile Corp. – July 13, 2026 – First Phosphate Corp.(CSE: PHOS) (OTCQX: FRSPF) (OTCQX ADR: FPHOY) (FSE: KD0) (“First Phosphate” or the “Company“) is pleased to announce that, on July 10, 2026, it closed the final tranche of its non-brokered private placement financing (the “Offering“), as further described in the Company’s news releases dated May 28, 2026 and June 15, 2026.

In aggregate, under the two tranches of the Offering, the Company has raised gross proceeds of $17,698,290 through the issuance of 7,238,070 Flow-Through Shares for gross proceeds of $14,476,140, and through the issuance of 1,611,075 Hard Dollar Units for gross proceeds of $3,222,150.

Under this tranche of the financing, the Company raised a total of $2,277,650 through the issuance of 960,500 Flow-Through Shares for gross proceeds of $1,921,000 and 178,325 Hard Dollar Units, comprised of 178,325 Common Shares and 178,325 Warrants, for gross proceeds of $356,650.

Together with this Offering, and since June 2022, the Company has raised approximately $80.2 million in 11 management-led non-brokered private-placement financings and from funds received from option and warrant exercise.

In connection with the current tranche of the Offering, the Company paid $12,000 in cash finder’s fees, issued 8,040 compensation Common Shares at a deemed price of $2.00 per common share (each a “Compensation Share”), and issued 14,040 Compensation Warrants. In aggregate between the two tranches, the Company paid $168,880 in cash finder’s fees, issued 330,960 Compensation Shares and issued 424,400 Compensation Warrants. All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a four-month and one day statutory hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Offering as disclosed in the Company’s press release dated May 28, 2026. Capitalized terms used in this news release and not defined herein have the meanings given to them in the Company’s news release dated May 28, 2026. The Company may close another tranche of the Offering at its discretion subject to the Policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange.

Board Appointment

The Company is pleased to announce the return of Peter Kent to its board of directors effective July 10, 2026. Mr. Kent has been instrumental in the development of the Company having previously served as President, as a director and as an advisor to the Company. All existing directors will also remain on the Board.

Audit Committee Changes

The Company has restructured its Audit Committee in connection with Mr. Kent’s appointment to the Board with Mr. Kent replacing John Passalacqua on the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee now consists of Laurence W. Zeifman (chair), Peter J. F. Nicholson, and Mr. Kent.

RSU and Option Grant

Mr. Kent has been granted: (i) 51,134 restricted share units with 11,134 vesting on August 31, 2026 and 40,000 vesting on February 28, 2027; and (ii) 300,000 incentive stock options with each option exercisable for one common share of the Company at $2.00 until December 29, 2028. The options shall vest in four tranches with 25% vesting on each of January 10, 2027, July 10, 2027, January 10, 2028 and July 10, 2028.

About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate (CSE: PHOS) (OTCQX: FRSPF) (OTCQX ADR: FPHOY) (FSE: KD0) is a mineral exploration and development and clean technology company dedicated to building and reshoring a vertically integrated mine-to-market supply chain for the production of LFP batteries in North America. Target markets include energy storage, data centers, robotics, mobility, and national security.

First Phosphate’s flagship Bégin-Lamarche property, located in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Québec, Canada, represents a rare North American igneous phosphate resource producing high-purity phosphate characterized by very low levels of impurities.

For additional information
Bennett Kurtz
CFO, CAO
Tel : +1 (416) 200-0657

Investor Relations: https://firstphosphate.com/investors
General Inquiries: https://firstphosphate.com/contact
Website: www.FirstPhosphate.com
X : https://x.com/FirstPhosphate
LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-phosphate

Forward-Looking Information and Cautionary Statement
This release includes certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking information”. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the completion of further tranches of the Offering, the intended use of proceeds of the Offering, the availability of tax credits, and regulatory approval including the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the “CSE”). Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, development and exploration successes, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions including, among other things, assumptions regarding general business and economic conditions; that the Company and other parties will be able to satisfy stock exchange and other regulatory requirements in a timely manner; that CSE approval will be granted in a timely manner subject only to standard conditions and that all conditions precedent to the completion of the Offering will be satisfied in a timely manner. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this press release. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. All forward-looking information contained in this release is qualified by these cautionary statements.

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

Lever Style Reports 2026 Interim Financial Results

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PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS (H1 2026)

  • Revenue increased to US$113.2 million (up 23.8% YoY), driven by the 2 January 2026 acquisition of the Active Apparel Group Pty Ltd and Active Apparel Group (America) LLC (“AAG”) business which is now successfully integrated into the Group’s platform
  • Net profit grew to US$ 5.4 million representing a 1.8% increase YoY, after absorbing one-off integration costs arising from the AAG acquisition

STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT

  • Deployed proprietary Product Lifecycle Management (“PLM”) system and in-house AI engine, advancing our transformation into a tech-enabled apparel platform and driving greater operating leverage

SHAREHOLDER RETURNS

  • Interim dividend maintained at HK3.0 cents per share, reflecting confidence in cash generation

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 July 2026 – Lever Style Corporation (HKEX: 1346, “Lever Style”), the world’s premier apparel production platform, today reported financial results for the six months ended 30 June 2026.

For the first half of 2026, Lever Style recorded a return to top-line growth. Following a defensive strategy in 2025 aimed at managing credit risk, the Group recorded total revenue of US$113.2 million, representing a 23.8% increase compared to the same period last year. “This revenue expansion was driven by the 2 January 2026 acquisition of the AAG business, which has now been integrated into our operating platform, providing a broader foundation for our growth trajectory.” said William Tan, CEO of Lever Style.

Navigating Integration for Long-Term Value

“While revenue expanded substantially, net profit for the period grew to US$5.4 million, representing a by 1.8% increase, compared to the first half of 2025. This short-term pressure on our bottom line reflects one-off, upfront integration costs. These primarily included temporary staff duplication costs as we merged workflows, systems, and personnel. We regard these transitional costs as necessary investments to secure the structural, long-term profitability of the acquired business.” Mr. Tan added.

With the integration phase now largely completed, the group’s cost structure is better optimized, and the group will enjoy the operating leverage that enhanced scale provides.

Strategic Technology & In-House AI Solutions

The group’s platform-based strategy continues to progress, converting its operational capabilities from a traditional apparel supplier into a tech-enabled enterprise. During the period under review, Lever Style successfully developed and deployed its own PLM system, among other solutions. These internal enterprise systems are designed to enhance workflow transparency, accelerate speed-to-market, and reduce waste across the group’s asset-light supply chain.

Capitalizing on its expanding internal R&D capabilities, the group has also customized AI solutions to fit its specific business model. Rather than relying on generic off-the-shelf software, these proprietary tools support day-to-day merchandiser productivity and factory coordination, reinforcing Lever Style’s long-term competitive advantage.

Market Outlook: Premium Resilience in a K-Shaped Economy

“The US market—our primary market—has proven surprisingly resilient through the first half of 2026. However, underneath the headline figures lies a visible ‘K-shaped’ economic split: a highly promotional and pressured middle market where retail liquidity remains tight and consumers are value-sensitive, and a premium/affluent tier of high-income consumers whose discretionary spending remains relatively stable, sustaining steady demand for premium products and services.” Stanley Szeto, Executive Chairman of Lever Style, commented.

Lever Style remains largely insulated from mass-market volatility due to its focus on upscale designers and premium fashion brands. Because the group’s brand portfolio aligns with this more resilient premium sector of the market, it remains well-positioned to navigate current economic conditions.

Future Prospects & Financial Synergies

Looking toward the second half of 2026 and into 2027, the group’s strategic roadmap focuses on three primary operational and financial levers:

  • AAG Bottom-Line Contribution: With major integration headwinds resolved, the AAG activewear business is expected to start contributing to the bottom line in H2 2026, with net profit margins of this business targeted to improve steadily, with the aim of approaching the margin profile of Lever Style’s legacy business in 2027.
  • Targeting Operating Leverage: As expanded volume is funneled through the group’s upgraded digital platform, Lever Style is targeting synergies from operating leverage across its vendor network, allowing fixed overheads to be managed more efficiently.
  • Pursuing M&A Opportunities: By integrating the AAG business, Lever Style has demonstrated the scalability of its own platform. Consequently, the group remains active in evaluating a pipeline of further value-accretive acquisitions to expand its product capabilities and geographical production footprint.

“The Group has completed the primary phases of integration, upgraded its technology base, and remains aligned with the more resilient segments of consumer demand. The Board remains confident in our underlying business model and our ability to deliver long-term value to shareholders.” Mr. Szeto concluded.

For more details, please visit: https://www1.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2026/0713/2026071300602.pdf

Hashtag: #LeverStyle





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

Lever Style Corporation

Listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Lever Style (HKEX 1346) is the world’s premier apparel production platform for premium contemporary and designer brands such as Alexander Wang, Theory, Todd Snyder, and Aimé Leon Dore; active and performance brands such as Arc’teryx, Columbia Sportswear, Helly Hansen, Spanx, Skims, and J.Lindeberg; and digitally native brands and platforms such as Mizzen+ Main and Bonobos.

Our supply chain solutions encompass fashion design, prototype development, raw material procurement, production, quality control, and logistics. Our innovative, modularized multi-country platform delivers high-mix, low-volume orders and reduces excess inventory and stockouts. Our versatile approach is rooted in decades of technical expertise gained from working with many of the world’s highest-quality and most demanding brands. We support production for 175 brands through a network of more than 150 factories across eight countries: Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, India and Thailand. A certified B Corp, Lever Style is a committed ESG leader in the apparel production sector.

The Changsha Jiandu Museum launches its Digital Exhibition Hall, Allowing Visitors from All Over the World to Adopt Digital Collections with One Click

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CHANGSHA, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 July 2026 – The digital revolution is reshaping the way people experience museums and cultural heritage. Exploring cultural treasures online without leaving home has become a new way for the public to appreciate history. The year 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of the discovery of the Zoumalou Wu Kingdom bamboo slips from the Three Kingdoms period. As part of a series of commemorative events launched by Changsha Evening News, a major highlight was unveiled on July 10—the Digital Bamboo Slips Exhibition Hall officially went online, alongside the launch of a global adoption program for digital collections, offering history and culture enthusiasts around the world a cultural gift spanning thousands of years.

PublisherTMP62q5i9g2lk8neN07PO5.jpg

https://youtube.com/shorts/-fteWwIeVYs?is=NawE8eX4W-Ww43ol

In 1996, more than 100,000 bamboo and wooden slips from the Kingdom of Wu during the Three Kingdoms period were unearthed from an ancient well at Zoumalou in Changsha, filling a gap in historical records on local society during the Three Kingdoms period. On November 8, 2007, the Changsha Jiandu Museum officially opened to the public. To meet the needs of history and culture enthusiasts at home and abroad to explore bamboo slips up close, Changsha Evening News has developed and launched the Digital Bamboo Slips Exhibition Hall. Powered by digital technologies, the exhibition hall breaks the limitations of traditional physical exhibitions and creates an online museum space that remains open 24/7. It provides global audiences with a new, barrier-free way to appreciate and explore bamboo slips dating back thousands of years.

Integrating cutting-edge digital technologies such as XR and AI, the exhibition hall brings together multiple sections, including the digital exhibition hall, digital collections, panoramic virtual tours, historical neighborhood tours of ancient Changsha, and interactive bamboo slips games. Through an innovative “culture + technology” approach, it explores new pathways for the global communication of museum culture, allowing Three Kingdoms-era bamboo slips that have remained hidden for millennia to transcend geographical and physical exhibition constraints and open a window for people around the world to better understand Chinese history and culture.

Digital collections are a highlight of the online exhibition hall. Visitors can zoom in and out with simple gestures to examine the complete forms and details of bamboo slips in high definition. Through the integrated panoramic tour function, they can enjoy an immersive virtual visit to all exhibition halls of the Changsha Jiandu Museum, while also exploring landmark sites such as Tianxin Pavilion, the ancient city wall, and Baisha Ancient Well. With just one click, visitors can embark on a journey through the historical and cultural neighborhoods themed around bamboo slips. The smart guide system breaks down language barriers by providing multilingual interpretation services in Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Arabic, and French for visitors worldwide. Visitors can also take part in engaging interactive experiences, such as assembling bamboo slips and other activities.

Alongside the launch of the Digital Bamboo Slips Exhibition Hall, the Global Digital Bamboo Slips Collection Adoption Program was officially unveiled. By logging into the online exhibition hall, visitors at home and abroad can browse digital collections and create their own personalized digital collections with a single click. They can also share them instantly on major global social media platforms, providing a new model for the international digital dissemination of Changsha’s museum culture.

A representative of the Changsha Jiandu Museum said that, after three decades of cultural accumulation and research, the bamboo slips unearthed from the Zoumalou Site are now embracing new possibilities through digital dissemination, opening up a broader path for the innovative utilization of cultural heritage. Through this initiative, the Three Kingdoms-era bamboo slips preserved in Changsha will reach Chinese culture enthusiasts around the world, using digital museum platforms to tell compelling stories of China that are authentic, engaging and inspiring.

Hashtag: #ChangshaJianduMuseum

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

PolyU signs tripartite MoU with Dassault Systèmes and PAIEvo in Paris to advance cross-continental collaboration in research innovation

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 July 2026 – The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has signed a tripartite strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Paris with globally renowned Dassault Systèmes and PAIEvo (HK) Limited (PAIEvo), a fully owned subsidiary of XtalPi Holdings Limited (XtalPi) listed in Hong Kong, to jointly promote collaboration in research innovation and talent development. This partnership marks an important milestone in PolyU’s development and underscores the University’s active role in fostering cross-continental collaboration to advance innovation and technology in Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. It also highlights the University’s international strategy to develop overseas innovation and entrepreneurship hubs, with Paris as its first foothold in Europe.

Prof. Christopher Chao, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU (3rd from left); Mr Nicolas Jeannée, Vice President 3DEXPERIENCE Edu of Dassault Systèmes (centre); Dr Kevin Tsai, Vice President of XtalPi and CEO of PAIEvo (3rd from right); Prof. Zijian Zheng, Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) of PolyU (2nd from left); Ms Joanne Li, 3DEXPERIENCE Edu Sales Director of China, Dassault Systèmes (2nd from right); Ms Ruyu Wang, Senior Director of External Affairs and Communications of XtalPi (1st from right); and Ms Amylia Chan, Interim Director of Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship, PolyU (1st from left) posed for a group photo at the MoU signing ceremony.
Prof. Christopher Chao, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU (3rd from left); Mr Nicolas Jeannée, Vice President 3DEXPERIENCE Edu of Dassault Systèmes (centre); Dr Kevin Tsai, Vice President of XtalPi and CEO of PAIEvo (3rd from right); Prof. Zijian Zheng, Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) of PolyU (2nd from left); Ms Joanne Li, 3DEXPERIENCE Edu Sales Director of China, Dassault Systèmes (2nd from right); Ms Ruyu Wang, Senior Director of External Affairs and Communications of XtalPi (1st from right); and Ms Amylia Chan, Interim Director of Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship, PolyU (1st from left) posed for a group photo at the MoU signing ceremony.

The signing ceremony was held earlier at Dassault Systèmes’ Paris-area headquarters. Witnessed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU; Mr Nicolas JEANNEE, Vice President 3DEXPERIENCE Edu of Dassault Systèmes; and Dr Kevin TSAI, Vice President of XtalPi and CEO of PAIEvo, the MoU was signed by Prof. Zijian ZHENG, Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) of PolyU; Ms Joanne LI, 3DEXPERIENCE Edu Sales Director of China, Dassault Systèmes;and Ms Ruyu WANG, Senior Director of External Affairs and Communications of XtalPi.

Under the collaborative framework, the three parties will jointly pursue a range of initiatives, including advancing the digitalisation of smart laboratories, expanding research and development (R&D) in new materials, developing proprietary computing capabilities and molecular simulation tools, building an ecosystem for new substance discovery, and nurturing relevant professional talent.

Prof. Christopher Chao remarked, “PolyU has been strengthening its research and knowledge transfer strategy in recent years, from establishing a robust network of Mainland Translational Research Institutes (MTRIs), setting up the incubation centres, InnoHubs, across Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, to progressively expanding our global footprint by building overseas innovation hubs, with Paris serving as our first stop in Europe. Meanwhile, we proactively align our research with industry demands, with market-oriented innovation at its core. This is the foundation of our close partnership with Dassault Systèmes. By bringing together the distinctive strengths of the three parties, this partnership enables us to fully leverage cross-sector and cross-border synergies among academia, research and industry. It will not only advance our respective development but also bring tangible benefits to society.”

Welcoming the delegations, Mr Nicolas Jeannée described the meeting as “highly meaningful”. He said, “This partnership connects not only Hong Kong and France, but also academia and industry. From the establishment of the Center of Excellence in 2025 to Dassault Systèmes’ official presence in Hong Kong in 2026, our collaboration with PolyU has continued to reach new heights. We look forward to working closely with our partners to generate more innovative outcomes and contribute to global digital transformation.”

Dr Kevin Tsai stated, “This strategic collaboration, formed through our subsidiary PAIEvo with Dassault Systèmes and PolyU, marks another important step for XtalPi’s journey toward the ‘Lab of the Future’. By integrating the strengths of the three parties in intelligent decision-making and Physical AI, virtual twin modelling, and cross-disciplinary academic research, we aim to accelerate the development of a self-learning closed loop encompassing intelligent design, physical experimentation, digital simulation and innovative applications, thereby advancing the R&D paradigm toward autonomous discovery.”

PolyU expands its global footprint by building its first overseas innovation hub.
PolyU expands its global footprint by building its first overseas innovation hub.

As a subsidiary of XtalPi, PAIEvo leverages XtalPi’s AI for Science platform, built on quantum physics, AI, and robotic experimentation, to systematically extend its proven R&D capabilities and technology strengths into key scenarios of new materials R&D. Dassault Systèmes, meanwhile, creates virtual worlds through its 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock-Up and Product Lifecycle Management solutions, reshaping the way products are designed, manufactured and supported.

The University’s collaboration with Dassault Systèmes began in 2003. What started as a software licensing relationship has gradually developed into a comprehensive and multi-layered partnership embracing research and talent development. Last year, this partnership reached a new milestone with the establishment of the Dassault Systèmes–PolyU Center of Excellence, the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region. Combining PolyU expertise in AI, robotics and materials innovation with Dassault Systèmes leadership in virtual twin technologies, the Center has laid a solid foundation for the company’s expansion in Hong Kong and has become an important platform for driving innovation in ‘AI + materials’ and ‘AI + virtual twin’.

The PolyU-Dassault Systèmes partnership also demonstrates the University’s proactive role in helping attract internationally renowned enterprises and talent to Hong Kong. Through the support of the HKSAR Government’s Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), and with PolyU’s recommendation and support, Dassault Systèmes was selected as one of OASES’ sixth batch of 22 strategic enterprises, officially establishing its presence in Hong Kong and expanding its local operations. PolyU will continue to support Dassault Systèmes development in Hong Kong by strengthening links between the “AI + manufacturing” innovation ecosystems of Hong Kong and France, while also leveraging its strong network of translational research institutes and centres in the Chinese Mainland to facilitate the company’s further expansion there.

During its visit to Dassault Systèmes, the PolyU delegation toured “The Playground”, an immersive experience space showcasing innovative technologies and live demonstrations powered by the company’s 3DEXPERIENCE platform. The delegation also visited the company’s 3DEXPERIENCE Lab to learn more about the innovative products and solutions developed by startups nurtured by Dassault Systèmes. The three parties additionally held in-depth exchanges and discussions on the practical implementation of their future collaboration.

Hashtag: #PolyU

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U Power’s HYDRO DATA Showcases Hydrogen Power Solutions at Data Center Asia 2026 Through Keynote Speech and Industry Panel Discussion

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HONG KONG, July 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — U Power Limited today announced that HYDRO DATA, the Company’s hydrogen-powered energy solutions and data center infrastructure venture, was invited to participate in Data Center Asia (DCA) 2026, where it delivered a keynote speech and joined a high-level industry panel discussion on next-generation energy solutions for AI data centers.

As one of the leading data center and digital infrastructure events in the Asia-Pacific region organized by Informa Markets, DCA 2026 gathered more than 200 exhibitors, over 8,000 professional attendees, and more than 60 industry forums covering AI computing, cloud infrastructure, digital infrastructure, and energy technologies, providing an important platform for global data center ecosystem participants.

At the event, Mr. Jia Li, Founder and Chairman of U Power and CEO of HYDRO DATA, delivered a keynote speech titled “Hydrogen-Powered AI Data Centers: A New Business Paradigm – Balancing Economic Viability, Environmental Sustainability and Long-Term Resilience.” He shared insights on the growing power demands of AI-driven data centers and how hydrogen-powered solutions can support sustainable and resilient digital infrastructure development.

Mr. Li also participated in the panel discussion “Enabling AI Data Centers with Advanced Power and Energy Solutions,” together with industry leaders including Virat Patel, Managing Director of Pioneer Consulting Asia-Pacific; Ben Boudreau, Chief Technology Officer of Zerra DC; and Anthony Ho, Director of Product & Solution Marketing at Equinix. The discussion highlighted that rapidly increasing AI workloads are creating significant challenges for traditional power infrastructure, making reliable, scalable, and low-carbon energy solutions increasingly critical for future data center growth.

This industry trend aligns with U Power’s strategic vision that energy infrastructure will become a key factor determining the development of AI computing infrastructure. As global AI adoption accelerates, data centers require power solutions that provide reliability, rapid deployment, cost efficiency, and sustainability.

In response to this market opportunity, U Power established HYDRO DATA in May 2026 together with industry partners, with strategic investment from the Charoen Pokphand Group (“CP Group”) family, to develop hydrogen-powered energy infrastructure solutions for next-generation AI data centers. Since its establishment, HYDRO DATA has secured a letter of intent for a data center energy infrastructure project in Rayong, Thailand. The project is planned with a total IT load capacity of 100MW, with a 3MW demonstration phase already underway.

HYDRO DATA utilizes advanced Proton Exchange Membrane (“PEM”) hydrogen fuel cell technology and modular deployment capabilities to provide stable, continuous, and low-carbon power solutions for data centers. Compared with conventional power generation solutions, PEM fuel cell systems offer advantages including faster deployment, high energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced energy independence, helping data centers address power supply constraints while meeting ESG and carbon reduction objectives.

“Since securing the 100MW data center energy infrastructure project opportunity in Rayong, Thailand, HYDRO DATA has continued to receive recognition from the global data center industry through invitations to participate in leading forums and discussions,” said Mr. Jia Li, CEO of HYDRO DATA. “The AI era requires not only greater computing capacity, but also a more flexible, reliable, and sustainable energy ecosystem. HYDRO DATA is committed to advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology and intelligent energy management solutions to support the future growth of global digital infrastructure.”

Looking ahead, U Power will continue leveraging its expertise in new energy infrastructure, intelligent energy management, and global market expansion, together with the strategic resources of the CP Group family, to accelerate the deployment of HYDRO DATA’s hydrogen-powered energy solutions across the Asia-Pacific region and global markets.

2026 China Chief Economist Forum Held in Hong Kong, Focusing on 15th Five-Year Plan Opportunities

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HONG KONG SAR – EQS Newswire – 13 July 2026 – On the afternoon of July 9, the 2026 China Chief Economist Forum (Hong Kong) was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. Under the theme “15th Five-Year Plan Outlook: Responding to Global Changes, Embracing National Strategy, and Unlocking Hong Kong’s Opportunities,” the forum brought together policy experts, chief economists, senior financial executives, and industry think tank representatives to discuss RMB internationalization, Hong Kong’s financial center development, Greater Bay Area synergy, and global asset allocation.

The event was hosted by the China Chief Economist Forum, co-hosted by the Financial Centre of the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association, and organized by BOC International and Harvest Global Investments, with support from the Hong Kong Chinese Securities Association, the Hong Kong Chinese Asset Management Association, and the Hong Kong Chinese Financial Association.

Assessing the Changing Landscape: Global Order and Economic Transformation

In the opening session, Xia Bin, former Director of the Financial Research Institute at the Development Research Center of the State Council and founder of the China Chief Economist Forum, stated that amid global restructuring and the launch of the national 15th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong should strengthen its role as a core offshore RMB hub, build a Greater Bay Area nexus for science, technology, and financial integration, and establish a service platform for Chinese enterprises going global. Liu Min, Vice President of the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association and Chairman of BOC International, noted that economists are expected to identify certainty assets, channel capital toward new quality productive forces, tell Hong Kong’s new financial story, and sustain Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector and super value-added facilitator.” Wang Chunxin, Deputy Head of the Policy Unit at the Hong Kong Chief Executive’s Office, explained that the 15th Five-Year Plan endows Hong Kong with a strategic positioning of “ten centers, two hubs, and three highlands,” with the Northern Metropolis development incorporated into the national strategic vision. Hong Kong’s first five-year plan will focus on infrastructure, industry, and livelihoods, creating a world-class environment for business, innovation, and living.

In the keynote session, Xing Ziqiang, Chief China Economist at Morgan Stanley, presented on “Global Order Reshaping and China’s Economic Transformation in the 15th Five-Year Plan Period.” He noted that amid geopolitical conflicts, the AI revolution, and shifting global monetary cycles, the Chinese and U.S. economies have shown resilience, but also exhibited K-shaped structural divergence, with sectors such as semiconductors, AI hardware, and new energy booming while real estate, consumption, and broad employment remain under pressure. He suggested that the 15th Five-Year Plan should not only advance computing power and energy network construction, but also strengthen the social safety net, unleash household consumption potential, and optimize outbound investment regulation under the premise of financial security.

Qu Hongbin, Vice Chairman of the China Chief Economist Forum, discussed “Hong Kong’s New Economic Positioning and Economic Assessment of 15th Five-Year Plan Strategic Opportunities.” He stated that Hong Kong should consolidate its traditional strengths in finance and shipping while accelerating the cultivation of new growth drivers in technology and innovation. Compared to Singapore and Shenzhen, Hong Kong still has room for improvement in industrial diversification, R&D investment, and hard technology commercialization, but the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou innovation cluster advantage is prominent. Going forward, Hong Kong can leverage platforms such as Qianhai and Hetao to combine its capital, professional services, and talent advantages with Shenzhen’s manufacturing and commercialization capabilities.

Three Roundtables: RMB Internationalization, Bay Area Synergy, and Global Allocation

The roundtable on “RMB Internationalization and Hong Kong’s International Financial Center Development under the 15th Five-Year Plan” was moderated by Xia Le, Chief China Economist at BBVA. Panelists included Wang Tao, Senior Advisor for Global Research at UBS; Ding Shuang, Chief Economist for Greater China and North Asia at Standard Chartered; Xiong Yi, Chief China Economist at Deutsche Bank; and Wang Shengzu, Head of Asset Management at Haitong International. The panelists noted that financial security and trade surpluses provide long-term support for RMB internationalization. Hong Kong should complement Shanghai with differentiated positioning, expand the scale of offshore RMB, improve derivatives infrastructure, and optimize cross-border financing arrangements for Chinese institutions.

The roundtable on “Greater Bay Area Economic Synergy and New Opportunities for Opening Up” was moderated by Zhou Hao, Chief Economist at Guotai Junan International. Panelists included Dong Yiyue, CEO of the Hong Kong Financial Services Development Council; Yang Yuting, Chief Economist for Greater China at ANZ; Tan Weimin, Chief Strategist at BOCOM International; and Shen Jianguang, Chief Economist at JD.com. Multiple panelists stated that Hong Kong should leverage the institutional advantages of “One Country, Two Systems” to connect its financial, legal, and professional services and international networks with the Pearl River Delta’s hard technology industrial chain, serving mainland enterprises going global. The Northern Metropolis, low-altitude economy, HKEX institutional reforms, and mainland platform companies’ expansion in Hong Kong provide new leverage points for Hong Kong’s participation in Bay Area synergy.

The roundtable on “Global Economic Outlook and Investment Strategy” was moderated by Zhao Wenli, Chief Economist at CCB International. Panelists included Qiao Hong, Chief Greater China Economist at Bank of America Merrill Lynch; Chen Haofei, Chief Strategist at BOC International; Jiang Yiqian, Chief Investment Officer at Harvest Global Investments; and Hong Hao, Chief Economist at Lotus Asset Management. The panelists discussed global asset rotation, noting that the K-shaped global recovery continues, AI’s long-term trend remains supported, but sector rotation is accelerating. Federal Reserve policy, inflation, exchange rates, and gold allocation were key discussion topics. China’s exports remain resilient while domestic demand still needs repair, with Hong Kong stock valuations and allocation opportunities drawing attention.

In closing, Zhu Hong, Executive Secretary-General of the China Chief Economist Forum, stated that the forum, grounded in the launch of the 15th Five-Year Plan, offered pragmatic recommendations on global changes, national strategy, and Hong Kong’s development priorities. On behalf of the forum’s organizing committee, he expressed gratitude to co-host the Financial Centre of the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association, organizers BOC International and Harvest Global Investments, and supporting organizations including the Hong Kong Chinese Securities Association, the Hong Kong Chinese Asset Management Association, and the Hong Kong Chinese Financial Association. Going forward, the forum will continue to anchor itself in Hong Kong and deepen its engagement in the Greater Bay Area, conducting regular seminars on macroeconomics, finance, and technology innovation, supporting Hong Kong in consolidating its position as an offshore RMB hub and international financial center, and deeply integrating into the national high-quality development landscape.

Hashtag: #CCEF

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