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SK hynix Ships Samples of 12-Layer Next-Gen ‘HBM4E’

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–     Delivers 12-high HBM4E samples to major customers
–     Achieves a maximum speed of 16Gbps per pin with improvements in both performance and efficiency
–     Utilizes Advanced MR-MUF, reducing heat resistance by 17% while improving stability
–     SK hynix strengthens its AI leadership with HBM4E based on its market-leading technological capabilities and manufacturing expertise… delivering the value needed in the market

SEOUL, South Korea, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SK hynix Inc. (or “the company”, www.skhynix.com) announced today that it has shipped samples of HBM4E, a next-generation DRAM for AI, to major customers.


“The company was able to deliver samples of the 12-stack HBM4E on schedule thanks to its advanced HBM development and production expertise for HBM,” said SK hynix, adding that “We will work closely with partners for mass production in a timely manner.”

The 12-layer HBM4E shows improvements in both performance and power efficiency. The product features a maximum data processing speed of 16Gbps per pin and power efficiency that is up more than 20 percent from previous models. These enhancements improve data processing capabilities for AI training and inference.

The HBM4E reduces data transfer latency through its latest interface and design optimization while maintaining stable operation in high-bandwidth environments. This enables customers to increase efficiency in processing data for AI data centers and large-scale computing systems.

SK hynix utilizes Advanced MR-MUF1 technology for HBM4E products to achieve a 48GB capacity in a 12-layer stack while ensuring structural stability. In particular, the company has also improved heat resistance by 17 percent, compared to the preceding HBM4, enabling stable operation of memory chips in high-performance computing environments.

1MR-MUF (Mass Reflow Molded Underfill): A process used for stacking semiconductors by injecting liquid protective materials between chips to protect circuits.

SK hynix has successfully supplied optimized memory solutions to customers based on its expertise in the mass production and supply of HBM3, HBM3E, and HBM4. Leveraging its market-proven product reliability and supply capabilities, the company will support the development of next-generation infrastructure while helping address AI system bottlenecks.

“SK hynix has laid the foundation to strengthen its AI leadership with HBM4E based on its market-leading technological capabilities and manufacturing expertise,” said Ahn Hyun, President and Chief Development Officer, adding, “Through close collaboration with our partners, we will deliver the value needed in the market while reinforcing our technology leadership as a full-stack AI memory creator.”

About SK hynix Inc.

SK hynix Inc., headquartered in Korea, is the world’s top-tier semiconductor supplier offering Dynamic Random Access Memory chips (“DRAM”) and flash memory chips (“NAND flash”) for a wide range of distinguished customers globally. The Company’s shares are traded on the Korea Exchange, and the Global Depository shares are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Further information about SK hynix is available at www.skhynix.com, news.skhynix.com.


Chinese Short Drama The Lady from the Northeast Season 2 Gains Popularity in Malaysia, Showcasing Compelling Sino-Malaysian Cultural Exchanges

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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, The Lady from the Northeast Season 2, produced by China’s leading short drama label Heard Island, has officially premiered. The series continues the cross-border love story between Qian Xiaohui, a girl from Northeast China, and Zhou Hexuan, the son of a wealthy Malaysian family, that began in the first season. This drama series is the first vertical-screen short drama deeply connected to Malaysia, featuring many authentic Malaysian details. Moreover, the male lead is played by Malaysian actor Kevin Ye!


The first season of The Lady from the Northeast achieved over 3 billion views in its first month of release, won the International Communication Award at the Macau International Short Drama Festival, and lead actor Kevin received the Most Promising Star Award. Within five days of its premiere, the second season has already surpassed 100 million in popularity index and 1 billion views in China, while also sparking heated discussions on overseas platforms including YouTube, TikTok, and FlickReels.


The Lady from the Northeast Season 2 revolves around Xiaohui bringing Hexuan and his entire family back to Northeast China for their wedding. The cultural differences between China and Malaysia are transformed into dense dramatic moments, creating numerous hilarious scenes. A Malaysian mother-in-law walks out of Shenyang Airport wearing a mink coat, sweating profusely from the heat; at the morning market, she goes from disliking the oily and salty snacks to completely falling in love with them, even wanting to poach the breakfast stall owner with a million-dollar annual salary. These plots have successfully sparked curiosity among many Malaysian viewers about Northeast China—their top desire is to go to Northeast China for a hot iron pot stew, and also experience the legendary public bath scrubbing.


The The Lady from the Northeast series skillfully incorporates numerous Malaysian cultural details, allowing local audiences to see reflections of their own lives through laughter, triggering widespread emotional resonance and cultural identity. For example, the male lead walks barefoot as soon as he enters the house, and offers the female lead uniquely Malaysian snacks and teh tarik. In the first season, the “lo hei” yusheng ceremony during Chinese New Year for Malaysian Chinese, as well as the exquisite and elegant traditional Nyonya clothing, also gave Chinese audiences a genuine appreciation for the unique charm of Nanyang Chinese culture.

Malaysian actor Kevin (Ye Wen) stands out with his relaxed and natural acting skills. During filming, he actively learned Northeast Chinese dialect, effortlessly saying phrases like “gan ha ne” (what are you doing). Hong Kong TVB veteran actress Michelle Ye plays the Malaysian mother-in-law, who transforms from a dignified wealthy matriarch to someone who learns to steam buns and sew cotton pants—the mother-son affection she portrays deeply moves both Malaysian audiences and Chinese viewers. This drama uses the bond of family affection to transcend regional differences, setting an excellent benchmark for cross-cultural exchange and cooperation in film and television between China and Malaysia.

The drama was filmed entirely on location in Shenyang. The rich Northeast Chinese charm has sparked strong curiosity among overseas audiences about iron pot stew, morning markets, and public bath scrubbing. Many Malaysian viewers are already eagerly calling for the next season: “Come film in Malaysia!” “We want to see Xiaohui open an iron pot stew chain in Malaysia!”

 

Sieyuan Electric Advances the Development of Renewable-dominated Power Systems Through Integrated Energy Solutions

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SHANGHAI, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As the global energy transition accelerates, power systems are evolving rapidly to accommodate increasing shares of renewable energy, growing electrification and rising demand for flexibility and resilience. Energy storage, digital intelligence and advanced grid technologies are becoming essential to building a more sustainable energy future.

During SNEC 2026, Sieyuan Electric presented its latest innovations and integrated solutions for the Renewable-dominated Power System, highlighting how energy storage, grid-forming technologies, intelligent power infrastructure and digital asset management can work together to support the modernization of power systems worldwide.

Energy storage was a key focus of the exhibition. Leveraging capabilities across battery systems, power electronics, intelligent control and system integration, Sieyuan demonstrated solutions designed to enhance renewable energy integration, improve grid flexibility and strengthen system stability. Supported by integrated capabilities covering battery systems, PCS, EMS, substations and grid connection technologies, the company is able to deliver end-to-end solutions across the entire energy value chain.

Beyond energy storage, Sieyuan showcased a broad portfolio spanning power transmission and distribution, intelligent substations, microgrids, environmentally friendly power equipment and digital monitoring technologies. Together, these capabilities reflect the company’s commitment to supporting the decarbonization, digitalization and long-term reliability of modern power infrastructure.

“Power systems are entering a new era shaped by renewable energy, energy storage and digital technologies,” said Zhang Shaobo, Assistant General Manager of Sieyuan Electric. “Drawing on more than three decades of experience in the power industry, we are committed to delivering integrated solutions that help customers build more flexible, resilient and sustainable energy systems. Through continuous innovation, we will continue to support the global transition toward a cleaner energy future.”

Unlike many specialized suppliers, Sieyuan combines expertise across generation, transmission, distribution, utilization and storage, enabling customers to accelerate the deployment of next-generation power systems through a single trusted partner.

With expertise spanning power transmission and distribution, energy storage, power electronics and intelligent asset management, Sieyuan continues to provide end-to-end solutions for utilities, renewable energy developers, industrial customers and infrastructure operators worldwide.

About Sieyuan Electric
Sieyuan Electric is a listed company specializing in power technology, equipment manufacturing and engineering services. Guided by its mission of “Smarter Power, Better Life,” the company provides integrated solutions spanning power transmission and distribution, energy storage, power electronics and intelligent asset management, helping build safer, smarter and more sustainable power systems worldwide.

Global visitors gathered at Sieyuan Electric’s booth during SNEC 2026 to explore integrated solutions for renewable-dominated power systems.
Global visitors gathered at Sieyuan Electric’s booth during SNEC 2026 to explore integrated solutions for renewable-dominated power systems.

Sieyuan Electric demonstrated how energy storage, intelligent grids and digital technologies can work together to support the energy transition.
Sieyuan Electric demonstrated how energy storage, intelligent grids and digital technologies can work together to support the energy transition.

Technical presentations highlighted Sieyuan’s latest innovations in grid-forming energy storage, power electronics and next-generation power infrastructure.
Technical presentations highlighted Sieyuan’s latest innovations in grid-forming energy storage, power electronics and next-generation power infrastructure.

World’s Best Universities Revealed

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US and European leadership challenged amid competition from Asia and Middle East 

#QSWUR 

LONDON, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global higher education experts QS Quacquarelli Symonds have released the QS World University Rankings 2027.

MIT is crowned first for 15th consecutive year. Imperial College London stays second, tied with Stanford University, up from third. University of Oxford and Harvard University come fourth and fifth.

This edition features 1500+ universities from 106 higher education systems. The US has 184 entries, followed by the UK (93) and Mainland China (85).

Top-20 

2027

2026

1

1

MIT 

US 

2

3

Stanford University 

US 

2

2

Imperial College London 

UK 

4

4

University of Oxford 

UK 

5

5

Harvard University 

US 

6

6

University of Cambridge 

UK 

7

10

California Institute of Technology

US 

8

9

UCL 

UK 

8

7

ETH Zurich 

Switzerland 

10

8

National University of Singapore 

Singapore 

 

QS Senior Vice President Ben Sowter said: “The QS World University Rankings serve as a benchmark for higher education performance, informing decision-making worldwide.

“The US still leads global higher education, though the map is shifting as institutions across Asia and the Middle East translate strong investment into measurable gains.

“The picture in Europe is mixed, with emerging systems strengthening their global standing through long-term funding and innovation policies, while others show signs of stagnation.” 

Highlights

  • US: Caltech achieves best ranking since 2023. Yale(16th) and Johns Hopkins(20th) re-enter top-20. Harvard leads globally in four indicators
  • UK: Leader in international research. Five universities achieve record ranks despite 43% dropping
  • Mainland China’s rise continues – 72% of universities climb, with 13 new entrants. Peking University(13th) leads
  • Hong Kong SAR: Asia’s most improved – 78% rise. CUHK(18th) joins HKU(11th) among the top-20.
  • Australia: 58% of universities rise. UNSW(19th) takes national top-spot for the first time.
  • Europe: Italy among Europe’s most improved – 56% climb, led by Politecnico di Milano(87th). Germany and Spain add 11 and 10 entries. Technical University of Munich(25th) and Université PSL(34th) top the EU.
  • Gulf universities break records. Saudi Arabia’s KFUPM(63rd) and King Saud University(107th) reach historic highs alongside Qatar University(109th) and UAE’s Khalifa University(147th)
  • Latin America’s downward trend continues. Universidad de Buenos Aires(84th) remains region’s only top-100 university
  • Canada under pressure as 66% of universities drop. McGill(30th) retains national top spot
  • Africa: University of Cape Town(184th) remains top-ranked university despite dropping year-on-year
  • India: IIT Delhi(118th) reaches country’s joint highest-ever rank. Eighteen universities hit record highs

Read the full global release here:Global420_WUR2027_EN_D1.0_E0.1_APPROVED_WB

PROCOMER: Costa Rica strengthens its focus on Asia with value-added food products in South Korea

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  • Four Costa Rican companies promoted differentiated products for the HORECA sector at Seoul Food & Hotel 2026.
  • South Korea is emerging as one of Asia’s leading markets for premium, healthy, and high-quality food products.

SEOUL, South Korea, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Costa Rica continues to strengthen its presence in Asia and expand opportunities for its export sector in high-value markets. From June 9 to 12, four Costa Rican companies participated in Seoul Food & Hotel 2026, one of Asia’s leading trade platforms for the food industry, bringing together buyers, distributors, supermarket chains, hotels, restaurants, and foodservice companies from around the world.


The Costa Rican delegation included Instantia, Inalve, Natural Aloe, and Frutera La Paz, which showcased a differentiated portfolio of dehydrated pineapple and banana, frozen tropical fruits, frozen cassava-based products, and aloe extract, mainly targeting the HORECA segment: hotels, restaurants, and catering services.

In addition to their participation in the trade show, the companies held business meetings and conducted strategic visits to leading retail chains and points of sale, including Homeplus, Shinsegae, and Lotte Premium Food Market. These activities allowed them to gain first-hand insight into consumer trends, identify business opportunities, and strengthen their positioning in the South Korean market.

“Market diversification is one of our top priorities to strengthen the resilience and growth of Costa Rican exports. Asia represents an increasingly relevant opportunity for our companies, and South Korea stands out for its sophisticated consumers, strong purchasing power, and growing interest in differentiated food products. Participating in platforms such as Seoul Food & Hotel allowed us to bring Costa Rica’s exportable offer closer to new buyers, generate business opportunities, and continue expanding the country’s presence in strategic markets around the world,” said Laura López, CEO of the Trade & Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER).

South Korea has become one of Asia’s most dynamic markets for premium, healthy, and convenient food products, driven by consumers who are increasingly interested in quality, traceability, innovation, and product origin. This context creates new opportunities for Costa Rica’s exportable offer, which is internationally recognized for its high standards of quality and sustainability.

Costa Rica’s participation in Seoul Food & Hotel was part of a broader trade promotion agenda being carried out in South Korea this year, including initiatives to strengthen the positioning of Costa Rican coffee in the market, one of Asia’s most dynamic destinations for high-quality food and beverage products.

Connecting South and Southeast Asia, Linking Trade Worldwide: The 10th China–South Asia Expo Series of Activities and the 4th Junfa-New Luosiwan International Procurement Festival Open in Kunming

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KUNMING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 Jun 2026 – The 10th China–South Asia Expo Series of Activities and the 4th Junfa-New Luosiwan International Procurement Festival officially opened today in Kunming, Yunnan Province. Aligned with the Expo’s theme, “Solidarity and Collaboration for Shared Development,” this year’s Procurement Festival is guided by the vision of “Connecting South and Southeast Asia, Linking Trade Worldwide.”

Connecting Trade Worldwide: The 10th China–South Asia Expo Series Events and Junfa New Luosiwan 4th International Procurement Festival Grandly Open in Kunming

By building platforms for open cooperation, trade exchange, industrial collaboration, cultural connectivity, and consumption promotion, the event aims to further strengthen Yunnan’s role as a gateway linking China with South and Southeast Asia while creating new opportunities for regional economic growth and international cooperation.

The opening ceremony was attended by representatives from government agencies, business associations, enterprises, buyers, and media organizations. Delegations from South and Southeast Asian countries, representatives of the Myanmar Trade Center, members of chambers of commerce, merchants, and influencer alliances gathered alongside nearly 40 national, provincial, and municipal media outlets.

Guo Huaiguang, Party Secretary of the Kunming Municipal Bureau of Commerce, stated that this year’s Procurement Festival builds upon the achievements of previous editions while delivering three key upgrades: stronger open-platform capabilities, deeper integration of emerging trade models, and closer coordination between economic and cultural exchange. He noted that New Luosiwan has successfully leveraged the combined advantages of market procurement trade, the China–Laos Railway, and multimodal transportation networks, significantly reducing logistics costs and customs clearance times while becoming an important export platform for Kunming’s small commodities and specialty agricultural products.

Shi Fei, Vice Mayor of the Guandu District People’s Government, emphasized that New Luosiwan International Trade City has developed into one of Southwest China’s leading commercial and trade complexes. He highlighted its important role in stimulating consumption, expanding foreign trade, and supporting employment, noting that this year’s Procurement Festival creates value through trade promotion, domestic demand stimulation, and enhanced market participation.

At the opening ceremony, You Jian, Vice President of Junfa Group, unveiled the development blueprint for Junfa-New Luosiwan during China’s 15th Five-Year Plan period. Guided by the vision of “Everything You Imagine Can Be Found at New Luosiwan,” the strategy aims to build a trillion-yuan integrated trade platform serving South and Southeast Asia through the combination of physical commerce, digital innovation, wholesale-retail integration, and online-offline collaboration.

Advancing Regional Trade Cooperation Through Strategic Connectivity

The Procurement Festival serves not only as a commercial event but also as a practical demonstration of Yunnan’s participation in the Belt and Road Initiative and the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

As an important supporting event of the China–South Asia Expo, the festival leverages the strengths of Junfa-New Luosiwan International Trade City to promote a development model in which logistics drives trade, trade drives industry, and industry drives regional economic growth. The initiative seeks to further establish Yunnan as a key commercial hub connecting China with South and Southeast Asia.

Integrating Trade and Logistics to Strengthen Cross-Border Connectivity

One of the major highlights of this year’s festival is the strategic partnership between Junfa-New Luosiwan and SF International. Together, the two parties have launched an integrated digital trade and logistics platform serving South Asia, Southeast Asia, and extending into Central Asia.

Leveraging the China–Laos Railway, often referred to as a “golden corridor” for regional trade, the platform combines market procurement trade, railway transportation, and multimodal logistics solutions. It also pioneers the regularized mixed transportation of “1039 market procurement goods” and the Lancang-Mekong Express service, helping reduce transportation costs and improve customs clearance efficiency.

Drawing on New Luosiwan’s extensive product ecosystem and incorporating logistics services, cross-border payment solutions, and AI-powered technologies, the platform provides merchants with a comprehensive pathway covering customs clearance, logistics, and settlement services for international expansion.

Accelerating Digital Transformation and Integrated Commerce

Digital transformation was another major focus of this year’s event. LuoLe Technology officially unveiled its Future Development Strategy, introducing five core business segments centered on a B2B cross-border digital trade platform and a consumer-focused digital commerce ecosystem.

Built around the OneID membership system, the platform connects online and offline experiences through the LuoleGO experiential marketplace, the Luole Private Domain Mall, and LuosuDa instant retail services. Together, these initiatives create an integrated digital commerce ecosystem that combines offline engagement, online transactions, fulfillment services, and data-driven operations.

The festival also launched a dual-channel consumption model integrating digital procurement and large-scale retail experiences. Through online subsidy programs and participation from more than 10,000 merchants, traditional commerce is being revitalized through digital innovation and enhanced consumer engagement.

Supporting Global Expansion of Yunnan Brands

During the opening ceremony, organizers officially launched the Merchant Global Expansion Program and Brand Internationalization Initiative.

The program establishes a four-pillar service system consisting of digital commerce platforms, overseas warehouses, international showrooms, and localized overseas operations. The initiative aims to help merchants transition from traditional export-oriented supply models toward global brand development.

More than 1,100 core merchants from the New Luosiwan Chamber of Commerce are participating in the program, transforming individual export efforts into coordinated international expansion strategies. Strategic partnerships have also been established with Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar through reciprocal product exhibition and promotion zones.

Supported by the international visibility of the China–South Asia Expo and the presence of overseas buyers, the Procurement Festival provides direct business matchmaking opportunities between regional merchants and international purchasers while offering comprehensive foreign trade services to facilitate transactions and export growth.

Creating New Consumer Experiences Through Wholesale-Retail Integration

The festival also explores innovative consumption scenarios by integrating wholesale and retail operations into one of China’s leading “experience plus retail” marketplaces.

A key focus is the development of Yunnan’s original fashion industry through designer showcases, runway presentations, and pop-up stores featuring local brands including Jinlinrong, VVFUSHI, T-Stage Jues, Jianpai, Lexiannu, NV Hanzi, and HK.

At the same time, the event incorporates youth-oriented lifestyle elements such as live music, street dance, DJs, fashion performances, and influencer engagement activities. By combining daytime trend experiences with evening entertainment, the festival creates a vibrant atmosphere that injects new energy into traditional commerce.

Promoting Cultural Exchange Through Trade

Beyond business and commerce, the Procurement Festival also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and people-to-people connectivity.The event showcases imported products from South and Southeast Asia alongside Yunnan specialties, including premium coffee, cultural and creative products, jewelry, jade crafts, tie-dye textiles, and other intangible cultural heritage items. By bringing together diverse products and traditions, the festival promotes mutual understanding and cultural appreciation across the region.

Through collaboration with international influencers, content creators, and overseas students, the event further expands its global reach and strengthens cultural ties between China and countries across South and Southeast Asia.

The Procurement Festival will continue through June 16.As Junfa-New Luosiwan advances its development strategy for the 15th Five-Year Plan period and accelerates its digital commerce transformation, it is positioning itself as a more open, innovative, and globally connected trade hub. From Kunming to South and Southeast Asia and beyond, the platform aims to strengthen regional economic connectivity and contribute to a new chapter of international trade cooperation.

Website: https://www.jfxlsw.com

ITPS Canada to Launch International Tactical Training Centre Operations in North Bay on July 6

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New dedicated facility at Jack Garland Airport positions North Bay as a future centre of excellence for NATO and allied fighter pilot training

North Bay, Ontario – Newsfile Corp. – June 17, 2026 – The International Test Pilots School Canada (ITPS Canada) today announced that its International Tactical Training Centre (ITTC) will officially begin operations in North Bay on Monday, July 6, 2026, marking a major milestone in the company’s investment in Northern Ontario and Canada’s role in allied defence training.

The launch follows ITPS Canada’s acquisition of a hangar facility at the Jack Garland Airport and significant capital renovations to establish a dedicated state of the art aviation training, maintenance, and operations centre in North Bay.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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The new North Bay operation will support approximately 60 staff and welcome students, instructors, visiting military personnel, customers, and industry partners to the community as ITTC begins delivering advanced tactical aviation training from its new Canadian home.

“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for ITPS Canada,” said Dave Lohse, the organization’s Chief Executive Officer. “The relocation and expansion of ITTC reflects our commitment to supporting NATO and allied nations with world-class tactical flight training while strengthening Canada’s position as a global leader in military aviation training. With its world-class airport facilities, abundant airspace and proud military heritage, North Bay provides the ideal environment to build a next-generation training centre capable of preparing future fighter pilots for increasingly complex operational environments.”

ITTC provides fighter lead-in training and advanced tactical training programs delivered by experienced allied military veteran instructor pilots in a dedicated operational environment. The North Bay campus brings together world-class expertise, access to expansive Canadian airspace, advanced training systems, and a uniquely Canadian four-season operating environment.

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North Bay was selected for its unique combination of strategic airspace, aviation infrastructure, military heritage, and community support. The region offers access to uncongested training airspace, diverse weather conditions, and a location that enables pilots to train together in an operationally realistic environment alongside NATO, Five Eyes and allied air arms, enhancing interoperability and operational effectiveness.

“The launch of ITTC in North Bay gives us the ability to deliver the kind of tactical training environment our customers are looking for, with room to expand to meet future training needs,” said Brendan Pierce, Vice President, Tactical Training, ITTC. “Modern air forces need training that is relevant to their operational requirements, adaptable to their specific needs and delivered to the standards they expect. North Bay provides access to exceptional airspace, realistic weather conditions and the flexibility to build training programs that prepare pilots for the environments they will encounter throughout their careers. That’s a significant advantage only ITTC can offer our customers.”

ITTC’s move to North Bay builds on ITPS Canada’s recent announcement that it has signed an agreement with Leonardo for six M-346 T Block 20 advanced jet trainers, with options for an additional six aircraft. Expected to enter service beginning in 2029, the aircraft will be based at ITTC in North Bay and will support the expansion of advanced tactical fighter pilot training for NATO and allied air forces.

To fully realize this opportunity, ITPS Canada is planning its next phase of growth at the Jack Garland Airport, including a purpose-built aviation training campus of approximately 64,000 square feet on adjacent airport lands. The proposed expansion represents an estimated capital investment of approximately $35 million and would allow ITTC to significantly increase training capacity in response to growing demand from NATO and allied air forces. At full scale, the expanded campus is expected to support 120 to 200 highly skilled aerospace and defence jobs in North Bay contributing to Canada’s broader defence industrial objectives.

For more than 25 years, ITPS Canada has delivered aviation training excellence to pilots and military personnel from more than 29 air arms worldwide. While ITPS Canada remains internationally recognized as a leader in flight test training in London, Ontario, the strategic move to relocate ITTC to North Bay allows the division to scale its existing tactical training capacity to meet growing demand from allied nations, enhancing Canadian sovereign capability.

As global demand for tactical aviation training continues to grow, ITTC is positioned to provide NATO and allied air forces with a flexible, responsive and operationally focused training solution delivered in the skies over Canada.

About ITPS Canada

ITPS Canada is a global leader in flight test and military aviation training, having delivered highly specialized flight test and tactical training for 25 years in Canada. Through its International Test Pilots School, International Tactical Training Centre and engineering divisions, ITPS Canada provides advanced aviation training, aircraft maintenance and engineering services to military and civilian customers around the world.

About ITTC

The International Tactical Training Centre provides advanced military aviation training for NATO and allied air forces. Operating from North Bay, Ontario, ITTC delivers tactical fighter pilot training programs designed to develop the skills, knowledge, and operational mindset required for success in modern military aviation environments.

Media Contact:
Marcus Tignanelli
Operations Manager
Marcus.Tignanelli@itpscanada.com
+1 (705) 358-0695

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

First Phosphate Announces Investment and Offtake Agreements under Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance at G7 Summit

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Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Québec – Newsfile Corp. – June 17, 2026 – First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS) (OTCQX: FRSPF) (OTCQX ADR: FPHOY) (FSE: KD0) (“First Phosphate” or the “Company“) is pleased to announce that it has formalized international investment and offtake agreements under the Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance (the “Alliance”) at the 52nd G7 Summit in Évian, France.

Letters of interest:

Within the framework of the Alliance, First Phosphate is also pleased to announce that it has received letters of interest (“LOIs”) from export credit agencies, financial institutions and industrial partners:

  1. LOI for up to CDN $275M guarantee from the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (“EIFO”) for the development of the First Phosphate Bégin-Lamarche mine. (signed March 30, 2026)
  2. LOIs from the Italian Export Credit Agency (“SACE”), from Italy’s National Promotional Institution, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (“CDP”), and from the international growth partner for Italian companies (“SIMEST”), alongside the support of the Italian engineering group MAIRE (“MAIRE”), in relation to First Phosphate’s phosphoric acid (“PA”) plant at Port Saguenay to deploy Ballestra S.p.A (Italy) (“Ballestra”) technology. (LOIs signed between May 26, 2026 – June 4, 2026)

Offtake Agreements:

  1. Definitive offtake agreement with an international partner for a minimum of 200,000 tonnes per annum of phosphate concentrate from the Bégin-Lamarche mine. (signed January 5, 2026).
  2. Definitive offtake agreement with an international partner for a minimum of 60,000 tonnes per annum of phosphoric acid to be produced by the phosphoric acid plant at Port Saguenay. (signed December 16, 2024)

“Canada has what the world wants, and we are delivering. By working with trusted allies through the Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance, investments are being made, projects are coming online faster, and we are strengthening supply chains in Canada and beyond,” said the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. “By advancing projects like the Bégin-Lamarche mine, we’re securing the materials essential to the clean energy transition, creating good Canadian Jobs, and positioning Canada as a leader in an increasingly competitive global economy.”

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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“These offtake and investment agreements announced under the Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance at the 2026 G7 Summit demonstrate the strategic importance being assigned to establishing a secure, traceable and robust international supply chain for critical battery-grade phosphate material,” stated John Passalacqua, CEO of First Phosphate. “We are proud to lead the G7 in the development of this clean, rare igneous phosphate material from Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, Quebec into a downstream lithium iron phosphate (“LFP”) battery supply chain for the G7 Alliance.”

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information relating to First Phosphate contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Steeve Lavoie, P.Geo., Chief Geologist of First Phosphate, who is Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”).

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.

About the Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance

The Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance was launched by Prime Minister Carney in June 2025 at the 51st G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. It brings trusted countries together to diversify critical minerals supply, promote responsible development, and reduce market concentration. The Alliance helps critical minerals projects move from planning to production faster by connecting governments, investors, and companies unlocking financing; securing investment; and supporting offtake agreements with long-term buyers, reducing risk so that mining and processing projects can get built and deliver secure, reliable supply.

About Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO)

EIFO is the Danish export credit agency backed by the Danish state, and as such, the EIFO guarantee can be considered AAA rated. The guarantee can be provided to one or more banks providing the funding and EIFO participation can be expected to be pro rata and pari passu with other senior lenders. EIFO has been involved in the financing of a significant number of transactions and projects around the world and has extensive experience within the field of export and project finance.

About Italian Export Credit Agency (SACE)

SACE is Italy’s Export Credit Agency, wholly owned by the Ministry of Economy and Finance. It specializes in supporting the growth of Italian companies through a wide range of instruments and solutions to foster exports and competitiveness, including risk management and protection, financial guarantees, factoring, advisory services, and business matching. With a network of export advisors across 23 offices in Italy and in high-potential markets for Made in Italy, SACE manages a portfolio of insured operations and guaranteed investments worth around €290 billion across 200 markets worldwide.

About Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP)

Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is the National Promotional Institute which has been supporting the Italian economy since 1850. The main goal of CDP is to accelerate the industrial and infrastructural development of Italy to boost its economic and social growth. CDP focuses its activities on sustainable development at local level, supporting the innovation and growth of Italian enterprises, also in the international arena. It partners local authorities, in a financing and advisory capacity, to create infrastructures and improve services of public value. CDP also participates actively in international cooperation initiatives to realize projects in developing countries and emerging markets. Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is entirely financed by private capital, through the issuing of Postal Savings Bonds and Postal Savings Passbooks, and through issues on national and international financial markets.

About Società Italiana per le Imprese all’Estero (SIMEST)

SIMEST is the Cassa Depositi e Prestiti Group company that has been supporting Italian businesses since 1991 as they grow through internationalisation. SIMEST supports businesses throughout their international expansion process, from the initial evaluation to enter a new market, to expansion through direct investments. It operates through loans for international expansion, export credit assistance and equity investments in companies.

About MAIRE Group

MAIRE S.p.A. (EURONEXT MILAN: MAIRE IM) is a leading engineering group providing technology solutions and project execution in the downstream segment of energy services, as well as in the chemicals and fertilizers industries. The Group operates through two business units: Integrated E&C Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions, the latter active in sustainable fertilizers, low carbon energy vectors, and innovative materials and circular solutions. With operations in around 50 countries, MAIRE employs over 10,800 people. For further information: www.groupmaire.com

About Ballestra S.p.A

Ballestra S.p.A. is an Italian engineering company active in the licensing, design and engineering of processing plants, as well as in the supply of proprietary technologies and equipment for the chemical industry, including detergents, surfactants, phosphate- and potassium-based fertilizers, fluorine derivatives and gas-liquid reactions. Leveraging its know-how in sulfuric and phosphoric acid, it supports the processing of critical raw materials, with applications in lithium-ion batteries and in the metals and mining industries. Recently acquired by NEXTCHEM (subject to closing), part of MAIRE Group, it operates in over 120 countries and employs approximately 450 people.

For additional information
Armand MacKenzie
President
Tel : +1 (514) 618-5289

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 advancement of its exploration, development and downstream mine-to-market operations; statements about the Company’s business prospects, future trends, plans, and strategies; the entering into of definitive offtake and financing agreements, and any related transactions, and the structure, terms and conditions of the definitive agreements any related transactions; the design, build, operation and maintenance of the phosphate concentrate and a phosphoric acid manufacturing plant; and the receipt of regulatory approvals.

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 engineering and construction timetables and capital costs for the Company’s, exploration, development and expansion projects are correctly estimated and not affected by unforeseen circumstances; the ability to obtain financing for its proposed operations on acceptable terms; no material deterioration in general business and economic conditions; no material delays in obtaining permits and other approvals; no significant disruptions affecting the activities of the Company or its ability to access required project equipment and services, and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; inflation and prices for Company project inputs being approximately consistent with anticipated levels; the ability to complete the exploration and development programs consistent with the Company’s expectations; commodity price expectations including assumptions for P2O5; the Company’s relationship with local municipalities and First Nations remaining consistent with the Company’s expectations; the Company’s relationship with other third-party partners and suppliers remaining consistent with the Company’s expectations; and government relations and actions being consistent with Company expectations. 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.

About First Phosphate Corp.

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