Free Medication Counselling Service to Prevent Misuse of Medicines and Protect Public Health

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – Mannings is launching its “Safe Disposal of Unused Medicines Programme” for the fourth consecutive year. This year, the programme further expands its collection network through collaboration with six community organisations, increasing the number of collection points across Hong Kong to 75. From 26 June to 23 July 2026, citizens can visit any of the 62 Mannings stores with pharmacies (except Elements, Landmark, Uptown Plaza, and Airport branches) or 13 designated community organisation collection points to dispose of leftover or expired medications (pills only, excluding dangerous drugs, liquid medications, and Chinese medicines) in the “Unused Medicines Collection Box.”

Hashtag: #Mannings #TrustedAdvisorForWellness #HealthandBeauty #SafeDisposalofUnusedMedicines #DFIRetailGroup

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

About Mannings

Mannings is Hong Kong’s largest health and beauty products chain store with over 320 outlets and over 60 in-store pharmacies operating in Hong Kong and Macau, providing a wide range of quality health care, personal care, skin care and baby products to customers. Our team of Community Health Professionals is available at many of our stores, offering expert advice and free consultations from registered Pharmacists, Dieticians, Beauty and Health Advisors. Mannings has been named by the Hong Kong Retail Management Association (HKRMA) as “Quality Service Retailer of the Year – Personal Care Products Category” for 15 consecutive years (2011 to 2025). Mannings has also been recognised as the “No.1 Most Preferred Brand” in online surveys conducted by global market research company Ipsos (2021-2024) and Nielsen (2025-2026) in Hong Kong for six consecutive years.

41 local tech firms, institutes and university spin-offs head to San Diego to forge global partnerships, reinforcing the city’s status as international healthcare innovation hub

HONG KONG SAR/SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with InvestHK as co-organiser, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) as supporting organisation, and five renowned local universities – The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and City University of Hong Kong – to form the city’s largest-ever delegation of life and health technology innovators to the BIO International Convention 2026 (BIO 2026) in San Diego, from June 22 to 25.

Building on last year’s momentum, the 2026 Hong Kong delegation doubled the size of the Hong Kong Pavilion, expanding to a record of 41 organisations from HKSTP, including partner companies, research institutes, and for the first time with top five universities spin-offs. This landmark presence showcased Hong Kong’s deep strength across AI-enabled biotech, therapeutics, diagnostics, and pharma innovation, with potential outstanding “First-in-Class” and “Best-in-Class” assets. The delegation underscores the city’s leading role as Asia’s largest and the world’s second largest fundraising hub for the biotechnology sector.

Mr. Terry Wong, CEO of HKSTP, said, “BIO 2026 is a premier platform to showcase Hong Kong’s groundbreaking innovation, deepen partnerships, and open new pathways into global healthcare markets. As a super-connector, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to bridge global innovators with opportunities across Asia and beyond. With strong R&D capabilities backed by world-class universities—five ranked among the QS Top 100, including two with medical schools now placed in the global top 20—Hong Kong’s biotech and medical research excellence is increasingly recognised worldwide. As the city’s innovation ecosystem orchestrator, HKSTP brings together talent, capital, research institutions, clinical partners, and industry leaders to accelerate the journey from discovery to impact. We will continue to empower life and health technology ventures, translating innovation breakthroughs into life-changing solutions that benefit communities around the world.”

HKSTP and Park Companies Advanced in Cross-border Innovation and Market Expansion

A key highlight of BIO 2026 is witnessing the signing of three major strategic partnerships:

• LabCentral — HKSTP signed an MOU with one of the largest global non–profit biotech incubators, supporting life sciences startups with high-impact lab infrastructure and scientific community programmes. The collaboration will deepen ties between the U.S. and Hong Kong life sciences ecosystems through startup support, ecosystem engagement, and co-developed programmes, events and strategic initiatives. It will also help connect startups, investors, corporate partners and research institutions, creating stronger pathways for cross-border innovation and commercialisation.

• Immuno Cure – the developer of the first-in-human novel therapeutic HIV vaccine ICVAX – announced its collaboration with OPIS, an international Contract Research Organization (CRO), at BIO 2026. Leveraging OPIS’s full-service, multi-country clinical trial expertise and regulatory knowledge, the partnership will support overseas clinical trial execution and establish a global framework to prepare for international expansion.

• Zhaoke Ophthalmology signed an MOU with Laboratório Teuto, the first company to produce generic medicines and OTCs (Over the Counter – Prescription Exempt Medicines) in Brazil, to explore cross-border cooperation in ophthalmology. This is Zhaoke’s first strategic MOU in Brazil market. Leveraging its innovative pipeline and Teuto’s commercial network in Brazil, the partnership aims to bring advanced eye care treatments to Latin American patients while demonstrating the globalisation of Hong Kong-born biotech innovation.

Beyond the BIO 2026 Hong Kong Pavilion, HKSTP CEO Mr Terry Wong attended the “Translating Innovation Across Borders: Creating Global Gateways for Biotech Startups” panel sharing session. Mr. Wong shared his insights on cutting-edge biotech trends, Hong Kong’s strengths on life and health tech development, and HKSTP’s role in building a global bridge for nurturing global startup expansion, sustainable innovation and collaboration.

Furthermore, HKSTP and five Hong Kong university delegates visited the Salk Institute, home to six Nobel Laureates during BIO 2026 to explore partnerships and shape global biotech momentum through collaborative platforms. HKSTP, in collaboration with InvestHK as co-organiser, HKTDC as the supporting organisation, and powered by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in San Francisco, hosted a Global Mixer during the exhibition. Industry leaders, incubators, and venture capital firms – including Bayer Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson Innovation, LabCentral, Roche, Simcere Pharmaceutical, and T.Rx Capital – were invited to join the judging panel for startup pitching sessions. The Pavilion also featured executive sharing and curated networking events for commercialisation, licensing, partnerships, investment and international market expansion.

Global recognition at Biomedical Pitch Competition

In the lead-up to BIO 2026, HKSTP actively drove engagement across the biotech sector and co-organised the 2026 Biomedical Pitch Competition with the Boston Capital Investment Club in Boston on May 23 and 24. Competing against around 170 biotechnology companies worldwide, HKSTP park company Meta Pharmaceuticals (HK) Limited won Third Place for its next-generation autoimmune therapeutics. The recognition underscores the strength of Hong Kong’s biotech pipeline and HKSTP’s commitment to translational medicine, commercialisation and globally scalable healthcare solutions.

HK’s biotech ecosystem rises to another level

Hong Kong continues to expand its global healthcare footprint as the world’s second-largest biotech fundraising hub. As Hong Kong’s flagship innovation and technology ecosystem, HKSTP is home to more than 300 life and health technology companies and helps innovators turn pioneering ideas into real-world impact. Its ecosystem connects capital, talent, infrastructure and market access across the biotech innovation journey.

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 17,000 research professionals and over 2,500 technology companies from 26 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc.

Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more.

Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.

More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.

The investment is made in the form of convertible dividend preference shares (CDPS) issued by Vinpearl. Jefferies acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Vinpearl on this transaction.

The transaction demonstrates strong confidence from leading global investors in the long-term growth potential of Vinpearl, as well as Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sector.

A representative of SeaTown commented: “Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sector continues to demonstrate long-term growth potential, driven by rising domestic demand and growing international arrivals. As an experienced, long-term investor in Vietnam, we are committed to supporting the market’s next phase of development, and view Vinpearl as a well-positioned partner in this dynamic sector.”

A representative of VOI commented: “As a capital bridge between Oman, the wider GCC and Vietnam, VOI has been an active investor in Vietnam for many years, with investments across a range of sectors and companies. We see Vietnam as one of the most dynamic economies in the region, with substantial long-term growth potential. Based on that conviction, we are broadening our investment focus into new high-growth areas, and Vinpearl is a flagship example of this strategy. As one of Vietnam’s leading hospitality and tourism platforms, Vinpearl is well-positioned to benefit from rising domestic consumption, growing international arrivals and continued sector expansion.”

A representative of Vinpearl shared: “We are pleased to welcome SeaTown, OIA and VOI as strategic partners of Vinpearl. This investment not only provides additional resources for our long-term development plans, but also represents recognition from international institutions of Vinpearl’s operational capabilities, strategic vision, and growth potential. With the support of reputable global investors, we will continue to enhance our products and services, and contribute positively to the development of Vietnam’s tourism industry and the wider region.”

Founded and headquartered in Singapore since 2009, SeaTown is a leading Asia-focused alternative investment firm with deep expertise across private and public markets. Owned by Seviora Holdings, Temasek’s asset management group, SeaTown is a trusted steward of capital, investing alongside its investors in conviction-driven strategies. As a partner, SeaTown strives to deliver compelling risk-adjusted returns by leveraging its extensive relationship network, decades of investing experience and astute global perspectives.

OIA is the sovereign wealth fund of the Sultanate of Oman, with a mandate to invest globally across diversified asset classes. In Vietnam, OIA invests through VOI, its dedicated investment platform and asset manager. VOI serves as a capital bridge between Oman, the wider GCC and Vietnam. Since its establishment, VOI has deployed significant capital across a range of sectors in Vietnam and continues to broaden its portfolio in high-growth areas.

Founded in 2003, Vinpearl is a leading Vietnamese brand in tourism, hospitality, entertainment and experiences. Over more than two decades of development, Vinpearl operates 60 facilities across 20 provinces and cities. Its ecosystem includes 5-star hotels and resorts with over 17,500 rooms; 16 VinWonders theme parks offering diverse attractions for all age groups; 6 world-class golf courses; and 3 international-standard convention and performing arts centers VinPalace. In addition, it operates 2 semi-wildlife conservation parks, an equestrian academy, and large-scale live entertainment shows in destinations such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, attracting millions of visitors annually.

With a comprehensive and continuously innovating service ecosystem, Vinpearl continues to reinforce its leadership position in the tourism and hospitality industry, enhancing visitor experiences and promoting Vietnam’s image on the global tourism map. The company is well-positioned to capture new growth opportunities and strengthen its competitiveness regionally and globally.

Hashtag: #Vinpearl

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Under the agreements, VEC and its partners will collaborate to develop, co-organize, and expand specialized exhibitions, trade fairs, conferences, and international events in Vietnam. The parties will also explore opportunities to create new exhibition brands and attract established global event series to be held regularly at VEC’s exhibition and event facilities.

The partnerships with Informa Markets, NC Network, Exporum, Chaoyu Expo, and Vinexad will provide VEC with access to a global network of leading exhibition organizers, enhancing its ability to attract large-scale B2B exhibitions, increase international trade visitor traffic, and maximize infrastructure utilization. The parties will also explore deeper collaboration models, including the joint development and ownership of high-growth exhibition brands in Vietnam, while supporting the international expansion of Vietnamese trade fairs, exhibitions, and event brands.

Through its collaboration with the Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA), VEC aims to build strong relationships with the multinational business community in the exhibition industry, expand bilateral trade promotion opportunities, and attract high-level international business delegations to conduct business directly in Vietnam.

Centered around the theme “Strategic Partnerships – Setting Standards – Leading the Future,” the signing ceremony marks a significant milestone in VEC’s development and reinforces its strategic ambition to co-own and develop a new generation of internationally-recognized exhibition and conference brands. This ecosystem of strategic partners will not only strengthen VEC’s capabilities in hosting international events but also enable the organization to participate more deeply in the exhibition and events value chain, from infrastructure operations to the co-creation of high-value exhibition products. At the same time, VEC’s partners will gain greater opportunities to expand their business activities in Vietnam, one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing markets, while leveraging the advantages of VEC’s large-scale, state-of-the-art exhibition complex.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Pham Thi Hien, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Business Development and Marketing at Vietnam Exposition Center, said: “As part of our market development strategy, VEC sees its role as far more than simply providing venue space for events. We aspire to be a strategic partner, working closely with organizers, businesses, and industry associations to attract investment and elevate the scale and standing of specialized exhibitions. We believe today’s strategic partnerships will create new momentum for growth, proactively bringing more world-class exhibitions and high-quality business networking programs to Vietnam. Our ultimate goal is to help position Vietnam as a new destination and a strategic connectivity hub for the region.”

The signing ceremony comes at a pivotal time for Vietnam’s exhibition, events, and advertising industries, which face an urgent need to restructure, enhance competitiveness, and align with international standards. These efforts are expected to contribute to a new era for the country’s cultural industries and experience economy.

In the coming period, VEC will continue to establish strategic partnerships with leading domestic and international organizations, launching a series of landmark events that reinforce its role as a national hub for trade, culture, and large-scale events. These initiatives will contribute to positioning Vietnam as one of Asia’s premier destinations for exhibitions and events.

Hashtag: #VEC

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About Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC)

Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC) is Southeast Asia’s largest exhibition complex, spanning more than 90 hectares. As a destination for national and international flagship events, VEC is committed to its mission of “Bring Vietnam to the World and Bring the World to Vietnam.” The organization aims to serve as a gateway where global excellence converges and Vietnamese identity reaches international audiences, while contributing to the development of key economic sectors and strengthening Vietnam’s position on the global stage. (Website: https://vec.global)

About Informa Markets

Informa Markets is one of the world’s leading organizers of B2B events and trade exhibitions. In Vietnam, the company has established a strong presence through a portfolio of events spanning many of the country’s key industries. Its flagship exhibitions include MTA Vietnam, the leading international exhibition for machine tools and precision engineering; Food & Hotel Vietnam (FHV), serving the hospitality and food service industries; Vietwater, focused on water supply and wastewater management; and ProPak Vietnam, dedicated to packaging and processing technologies. (Website: https://www.informamarkets.com)

About NC Network

Founded in Japan, NC Network specializes in connecting industrial manufacturing enterprises through an extensive business network. In Vietnam, NC Network Vietnam serves as a trusted B2B bridge between manufacturers in Vietnam, Japan, and the broader ASEAN region. The company is best known for organizing FBC ASEAN (Factory Network Business Conference), a unique business matching platform that directly connects manufacturers, engineering companies, and component suppliers to identify sourcing and partnership opportunities across the industrial value chain. (Source: vn.emidas.com/en/nc-net)

About Exporum

Established in 2003, Exporum is one of South Korea’s leading professional exhibition planning and organizing companies. The company is widely recognized for its Cafe Show series, including Cafe Show Seoul and Cafe Show Vietnam, Asia’s largest industry platform bringing together the entire coffee value chain, from raw materials to brewing equipment. Exporum is also the organizer of Smart City Asia, a leading exhibition focused on smart city solutions and digital infrastructure. (Website: exporum.com)

About Vinexad

Established in 1975 and operating under Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vinexad is widely regarded as a pioneer of Vietnam’s exhibition industry. With more than five decades of experience, the company owns several nationally recognized event brands, most notably Vietnam Expo (Vietnam International Trade Fair). Held annually since 1991, Vietnam Expo is the country’s largest and most influential multi-sector trade promotion event. (Website: vinexad.com.vn)

About Chaoyu Expo

Guangdong Chaoyu Exhibition Co., Ltd. (Chaoyu Expo) is a major exhibition organizer based in Guangdong, China, specializing in international B2B events that connect China’s extensive consumer goods and electronics manufacturing supply chains directly with Southeast Asian markets. In Vietnam, Chaoyu Expo is known for organizing leading exhibitions such as IEAE (International Electronics & Smart Appliances Expo), IBTE (International Toys and Baby Products Expo), and IGHE (International Gifts & Homeware Expo). (Website: chaoyuexpo.com)

About the Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA)

The Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA) is the representative organization for individuals and enterprises operating in Vietnam’s MICE, advertising, and events sectors. One of its core functions is to provide official endorsement for major events organized by its members, including large-scale exhibitions hosted by companies such as Vinexad and Informa Markets. VECA also leads national conferences and industry forums focused on market trends and event space development strategies, helping guide the long-term growth of Vietnam’s exhibition and events industry. (Website: www.veca.vn)