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Trip.com Group Witnesses Double-digit Cross-border Growth for May Labour Day Holiday

  • Trips to two or more cities increase by 60% compared to last year
  • Triple-digit growth in alternative stays – popular among travellers in South Korea, Hong Kong SAR and Thailand
  • Strong cross-border travel from China, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam

SINGAPORE, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Labour Day holiday continues to be a peak travel period for many destinations in the Asia-Pacific region, with holiday-makers from Japan, Vietnam and the Chinese mainland seizing longer holiday public breaks for domestic or overseas getaways. Meanwhile, travellers from South Korea, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore and Thailand can enjoy a long weekend by combining the public holiday with annual leave.


Asia Tops the Charts, with Evolving Taste for Nature-based Alternative Accommodation

According to Trip.com Group’s latest booking data, Asia-Pacific travellers are exhibiting a stronger interest in travelling closer to home this Labour Day holiday—be it domestically or regionally. The top five cross-border destinations include Japan, China, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia. Overall, Asia-Pacific key markets have seen close to triple-digit growth for domestic travel, and strong double-digit growth in cross-border travel this May holiday season.


Accommodation preferences are also evolving. Travellers are expanding beyond traditional hotels, leading to a surge in demand for apartments, villas, and inns. Alternative stays have seen triple-digit booking growth in markets such as South Korea, Thailand, and Hong Kong SAR.

Bookings are increasingly concentrated in destinations surrounded by nature—scenic lakes, mountains, national parks, and beaches are driving interest. Japan has emerged as a favourite for these types of stays, thanks to its hot springs, views of Mt. Fuji, and access to Hakone National Park.

Travellers are increasingly turning to coastal locations for villa stays, especially where sea views and beach access are front and centre. This shift is particularly noticeable among Chinese mainland, Japanese, and South Korean travellers. Bali, for example, is experiencing a notable uptick in villa bookings.


In line with this shift, searches for nature-based breaks and Instagrammable destinations have recorded triple-digit growth, highlighting a growing desire for aesthetically appealing escapes that offer tranquillity and a deeper connection to the natural environment.

Regional Travel Takes Off: China and Japan Lead the Way, South Korea and Vietnam Travel Growing

The Labour Day holiday remains a powerful driver of cross-border travel across Asia, particularly in China, with a five-day holiday from 1-5 May, while Japan celebrates its ‘Golden Week’ holiday from 29 April to 6 May. Trip.com Group data shows strong cross-border travel from China and Japan compared to 2024.

Top regional destinations for Chinese travellers include Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore, while Japanese travellers are flocking to South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and the United States.

Notably, both South Korea and Vietnam have the opportunity to holiday for longer. Vietnam will celebrate a five-day holiday from Wednesday, 30 April to Sunday, 4 May, for Reunification Day and International Workers’ Day, while South Korean travellers, on the other hand, can utilise two days of annual leave to get six days off between 1 May and 6 May.

As such, booking data shows a substantial increase in domestic and cross-border bookings for both markets. Vietnam is witnessing an increase of over 190% in domestic bookings, with cross-border bookings exceeding 150%.  The trend is similar for South Korea, with domestic bookings surging by nearly 190% and cross-border travel up by over 150%, indicating the impact of this extended May holiday.

A Rise in Multi-City Destinations and Flights Over Six Hours

Making the most of the holidays is an ever-appealing trend across Asia, reflected by multi-destination stays. Bookings for trips to two or more cities have increased by 60% compared to last year.


Asia-Pacific multi-city itineraries are designed around clusters of closely connected cities within a single country. Travellers from Malaysia, for instance, are choosing to explore both Chengdu and Chongqing during trips to China, while visitors from Hong Kong SAR are pairing visits to Kyoto and Osaka in Japan. Chinese tourists are also embracing this trend, favouring Japan and commonly combining Osaka and Tokyo into one seamless journey.

Flights over six hours are the fastest-growing flight segment, compared to last year. Long-haul journeys among South Korean travellers are reaching triple-digit growth, and Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese travellers are seeing strong double-digit increases.

As these long-haul trips rise in popularity, travellers are also opting to visit more than one destination per journey. Japanese tourists are opting for a blend of London and Barcelona, combining British heritage with Mediterranean vibrancy. Chinese travellers are exploring London and Edinburgh, capturing a north-south sweep of the UK. At the same time, South Korean visitors frequently pair London with Paris for a classic European twin-city experience.

Engaging Experiences and Gourmet Stops

Travellers continue to flock to Asia’s most dynamic urban hubs, with Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, Hong Kong SAR, and Bangkok emerging as the top cities. The surge reflects a consistent appetite for destinations that seamlessly blend vibrant street life, deep-rooted traditions, and must-try food experiences. Food-related searches have seen a notable uptick across the region, with almost 20% growth in culinary searches. Popular cuisines and local delicacies are increasingly influencing destination choice. Japanese cuisine is seeing the highest search volume for food in Osaka and Tokyo, representing the local food scene of these two popular cities.


At the same time, event tourism is rising. Concert tour bookings show double-digit growth for the May holiday. Notably, Japanese tourists are attending domestic music events, such as concerts by the Korean boy group Tomorrow X Together. Chinese mainland consumers favour events in South Korea, like HIPHOPPLAYA FESTIVAL 2025 and domestic events, such as the Beijing Strawberry Festival. Travellers departing from Hong Kong SAR are keen to catch homegrown talent Eason Chan, at his FEAR and DREAMS World Tour in Tokyo—all signalling travellers’ increasing interest in combining cultural experiences with their travel plans.

The 2025 Labour Day holiday illustrates the growing complexity and choice being embraced by modern travellers—from nature-rich retreats and food-led journeys to long-haul, multi-stop adventures—highlighting a new era of discovery in global travel.

About Trip.com Group

Trip.com Group is a leading global travel service provider comprising of Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar. Across its platforms, Trip.com Group helps travellers around the world make informed and cost-effective bookings for travel products and services and enables partners to connect their offerings with users through the aggregation of comprehensive travel-related content and resources, and an advanced transaction platform consisting of apps, websites and 24/7 customer service centres. Founded in 1999 and listed on NASDAQ in 2003 and HKEX in 2021, Trip.com Group has become one of the best-known travel groups in the world, with the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world”. Find out more about Trip.com Group here: group.trip.com.

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Pulxion and Medtronic Partner to Advance Innovative Health Solutions

TAIPEI, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — According to statistics published by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2025, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, claiming approximately 18 million lives annually and accounting for 32% of all deaths worldwide. This highlights the crucial importance of early detection and timely management of CVDs.

Pulxion Medical Technology is dedicated to developing innovative solutions to address global health challenges, with focus on the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases. The company aims to integrate advanced medical technologies, particularly in response to the increasing prevalence of younger patients with CVDs, such as stroke and coronary artery disease. By enabling early and rapid screening, this approach supports proactive prevention and timely intervention.

Professor Herbert Hsiao, founder of Pulxion and an esteemed professor at National Taiwan University, remarked, “Pulxion was founded with the vision of transforming traditional disease screening methods through innovative technologies, making health management simpler and more accessible. Our core product integrates advanced AI-powered video motion analysis technology to provide rapid and non-invasive disease risk assessments tailored to the needs of modern preventive healthcare, allowing more people to benefit from the convenience and efficiency of early screening.”

Joy Chen, CEO of Pulxion, stated, “Pulxion continuously seeks opportunities to promote innovative solutions. Recently, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Medtronic, a global leader in medical devices, establishing a strategic partnership. We plan to jointly promote Pulxion’s core product in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau, accelerating the adoption and application of early screening technologies. In Taiwan, Pulxion has initiated the pivotal clinical trials of our core product in major medical centers to obtain regulatory approval from the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA).”

Pulxion Medical Technology has taken a significant step in advancing early screening for cardiovascular diseases, further strengthening its momentum toward realizing its healthcare vision of “prevention-first.” Moving forward, Pulxion will continue collaborating with industry leaders to drive the adoption of innovative medical technologies, create greater value for the industry, and contribute to global health improvement.

Rapid Screening for CVDs Risk
Rapid Screening for CVDs Risk

Sources:

  1.  World Health Organization (https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases#tab=tab_1)
  2.  Ministry of Health and Welfare (https://www.mohw.gov.tw/cp-4634-52471-1.html)
  3. Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare (https://www.hpa.gov.tw/Pages/Detail.aspx?nodeid=4809&pid=18445)

Cohesity Automation Provides Faster, More Comprehensive Cyber Incident Response

Cohesity RecoveryAgent’s AI-powered Orchestration Makes Cyber Response and Recovery Easy so Customers Can Recover From Incidents Faster and With More Confidence 

SINGAPORE, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cohesity, the leader in AI-powered data security, today announced Cohesity RecoveryAgent, a new AI-powered cyber orchestration solution for Cohesity NetBackup and DataProtect customers. RecoveryAgent automates cyber recovery preparation, testing, compliance, and response, enabling customers to recover from cyber incidents faster. It offers intelligent, customizable recovery blueprints and enables rigorous testing of recovery processes in a non-production environment, giving customers more confidence in their ability to respond to proliferating cyberattacks.

Simplifying Cyber Recovery Through Automation and Intelligence
Modern IT environments are complex, comprising physical, virtual, and cloud-based systems. Responding to cyberattacks requires organizations to navigate this complexity while ensuring data integrity, availability, and regulatory compliance. RecoveryAgent addresses these challenges by generating customizable blueprints that automate recovery workflows, making cyber recovery response more efficient and adaptable.

With these customizable blueprints, organizations can better prepare for cyber incidents before they happen. RecoveryAgent’s intuitive UI allows teams to easily build recovery plans with scripted workflows that automatically integrate critical steps for incident response, such as threat hunting, malware scanning, and instant data restores. Users can rehearse recoveries to prove the blueprint will effectively recover their data in a non-production environment without impacting production applications. This frequent testing helps ensure readiness for real-world incidents.

RecoveryAgent’s Agentic AI capabilities allow recovery teams to:

  • Rapidly and easily create and edit recovery blueprints with AI assistance for automated testing of cyber impact or disaster recovery
  • Manage granular recovery across multiple domains in complex hybrid environments, including on-premises, cloud, PaaS, and containers
  • Speed up forensic investigations through automated threat scanning using native tools and best-in-class threat intelligence from Data Security Alliance partners
  • Have more confidence in a clean incident recovery with Agentic AI-powered intelligent recovery point recommendations and blast radius analysis of infected files across domains
  • Understand the real-world recovery times and how they align with the business SLAs
  • Ensure and demonstrate compliance with regulatory and business drivers by implementing standard recovery practices

“Every moment matters to customers experiencing a cyber incident. Having a comprehensive and thoroughly tested incident response plan can be the difference between minimal disruption and massive impact,” said Vasu Murthy, Chief Product Officer, Cohesity. “By simplifying and automating every step of the complex cyber recovery process, RecoveryAgent helps customers boost resilience and respond faster with more confidence to cyber incidents. The world’s largest organizations trust Cohesity because we understand the impact of cyber incidents and consistently offer new solutions like RecoveryAgent to help our customers be more confident in their cyber readiness and recovery.”

Seamless Integration for Enhanced Cyber Resilience
RecoveryAgent automates time-consuming and manual tasks such as vulnerability scanning, malware scanning, and data classification into a structured blueprint. It can also automate forensics investigation, configuration hardening, and patching when orchestrated on virtual machines that are recovered within the solution. These capabilities are powered by Cohesity’s Data Security Alliance, which integrates with leading security vendors to help security teams become more agile and productive. Additionally, RecoveryAgent enhances Cohesity’s existing clean room solution, making activation faster and more intuitive.  

“AntemetA has a complex technology infrastructure, and as a result, we need solutions developed with extensive field experience to enable us to be as effective as possible, especially as we are exposed to increasing amount of cyber risks,” said Stéphane Colin, CTO, AntemetA. “This is only possible with trusted partners who take time to understand our unique complexity and work with us to ensure our data can be recovered with confidence and our services guarantee the highest level of resilience, whatever cyber challenges we face. We have a longstanding partnership with Cohesity because it continues to develop solutions like RecoveryAgent, which help us deliver more relevant and effective services. That, in turn, has earned us an equally long-lasting trust from our customers.”

RecoveryAgent is the first new offering to emerge from the joint development efforts of Cohesity and Veritas since the companies came together in December. By combining the capabilities of NetBackup Recovery Blueprints and Recommended Recovery Points with AI-powered intelligence and innovation native to DataProtect, RecoveryAgent is an example of the rapid innovation enabled by integrating both companies’ technology. It also highlights Cohesity’s commitment to simplifying user experiences and enhancing customer confidence in cyber resilience strategies.

RecoveryAgent is currently available to select customers in Tech Preview and is expected to be generally available for NetBackup and DataProtect customers in the second half of the calendar year 2025.

For more information about Cohesity RecoveryAgent and how it can support your organization’s cybersecurity needs, watch our video. And for more insights on breach response and how to strengthen your organization’s resilience, watch our conversation.    

About Cohesity

Cohesity is the leader in AI-powered data security. Over 13,600 enterprise customers, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 and nearly 70% of the Global 500, rely on Cohesity to strengthen their resilience while providing Gen AI insights into their vast amounts of data. Formed from the combination of Cohesity with Veritas’ enterprise data protection business, the company’s solutions secure and protect data on-premises, in the cloud, and at the edge. Backed by NVIDIA, IBM, HPE, Cisco, AWS, Google Cloud, and others, Cohesity is headquartered in Santa Clara, CA, with offices around the globe. To learn more, follow Cohesity on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook.

Eyebright Medical Published its 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance Report

Commitment to Sustainable Development, Social Responsibility, and Corporate Governance

HONG KONG, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Eyebright Medical Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd. (“Eyebright Medical“, the “Company“, Stock Code: 688050.SH, together with its subsidiaries collectively known as the “Group“) is proud to announce that the Company has published its 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance Report.

Continuous Optimization of Core Profitability

During 2024, the Company reported revenue of RMB 1,410.02 million, a 48.24% increase compared to the prior year. Net profit attributable to shareholders was RMB 388.40 million, up 27.77% from the previous year. Excluding non-recurring items, net income reached RMB 390.08 million, reflecting a 35.08% increase. Basic earnings per share were RMB 2.05, highlighting Eyebright Medical’s strong performance and commitment to shareholder value.

Establishing a Cohesive Environmental Protection System with Diverse Energy-Saving Measures

Eyebright Medical prioritizes environmental protection by establishing a cohesive system that optimizes processes and upgrades facilities to meet strict standards, thereby enhancing governance.

In March 2025, the Company achieved ISO 14001 certification and actively promotes an energy management system while implementing various energy-saving initiatives, leading to ISO 50001 certification in February 2025. Certain production bases have also installed photovoltaic systems to harness solar energy, reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.

The “HiGenie” brand launched an “Empty Tube Recycling” program, encouraging sustainable consumption with no-threshold coupons for exchanging empty tubes. Eyebright’s commitment to sustainability is recognized by its inclusion in Beijing’s directory of water-saving enterprises for its innovations in water-saving technology and efficient resource utilization.

Advancing Global Collaboration and Employee Development While Upholding Social Responsibility and Health Standards

Eyebright Medical is dedicated to creating a global academic platform that integrates medical research with practice while supporting employee career development. During the Reporting Period, the company hosted 2 international exhibitions, 20 national conferences, and 70 regional meetings, attracting 2,783 online participants and 29,088 views. The Company has revised 2 state standards and 5 others, partnering with 5 universities and donating over RMB 1.2 million in materials to benefit 1,400 students.

Since 2022, Eyebright Medical has collaborated with 15 universities, contributing over RMB 4.5 million, providing 500 hours of training, and empowering over 2,500 students and 10,000 vision care professionals. The company established training bases at China Eye Valley, Tianjin Eye Hospital Vision Center, and its Beijing headquarters, conducting five sessions with 118 hours of instruction for over 200 participants. Its workforce comprises 57% female and 43% male employees, along with a balanced senior executive team.

To promote work-life balance, Eyebright Medical organizes initiatives like World Book Day, Sports Day, and outdoor activities. Prioritizing employee health, it achieved ISO 45001 certification in March 2025. The company is committed to international aid, grassroots healthcare, philanthropy, and scientific outreach, emphasizing its social responsibility and sustainable development goals.

Enhancing Governance and Transparency While Recognized for Shareholder Value and Quality Initiatives

Eyebright Medical is committed to optimizing governance by standardizing controls, protecting shareholder rights, and enhancing information security. The company has achieved an A-level disclosure rating from the Shanghai Exchange for 2 consecutive years, reflecting its dedication to corporate governance excellence.

During 2024, Eyebright Medical held 7 board meetings, approving 47 proposals, and 8 board committee meetings with 40 proposals approved. Additionally, it conducted 5 supervisory committee meetings and 1 shareholder meeting, leading to 11 proposals approved.

To improve quality and efficiency, Eyebright Medical launched its 2024 “Quality Improvement and Efficiency Enhancement for Returns” action plan, safeguarding investor rights through a share buyback of RMB 20.04 million and executive buy-ins of RMB 3.44 million. In March 2025, the Shanghai Stock Exchange recognized the Company as a model for shareholder value creation.

About Eyebright Medical

Eyebright Meical Technology (Beijing) Ltd (“Eyebright Medical”; SH Stock Code: 688050.SH) is a National High-tech Enterprise and state-level technologically advanced ‘little giant’ enterprises, located in Zhongguancun Science and Technology Park, Beijing, China.

The Company is an innovation-driven ophthalmic medical device manufacturer. Its balanced product portfolio spans three major areas of the ophthalmic field: cataract surgery, myopia management, as well as consumer vision care. Anchored by its three core product categories – intraocular lenses, orthokeratology lenses, and soft contact lenses – the company has strategically expanded its product pipeline to cover the full life cycle of eye health solutions. Eyebright Medical is striding into a world-leading medical enterprise on behalf of China’s ‘intelligent manufacturing’ power.

For more information about Eyebright Medical, please visit the official website of the Group: http://www.ebmedical.com/en/

Investment of Approx. USD 4.5 Million in Development of Diagnostics for Tuberculosis to Partners Including Fujirebio and University Hospital Heidelberg

TOKYO, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Global Health Innovative Technology (GHIT) Fund announced today an investment of approximately JPY 679 million (USD 4.5 million1) for the development of diagnostics for tuberculosis, in addition to an investment of approximately JPY 15.9 million (USD 0.1 million1) for a drug discovery project for Chagas disease and leishmaniasis.2 

Investment of approximately JPY 679 million (USD 4.5 million1) for the development of diagnostics for tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a serious infectious disease, with approximately 10.8 million cases and 1.25 million deaths reported in 2023, making it the leading causes of death from a single infectious agent.3 The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set a target to end TB by 2030, but achieving this goal requires accurate and accessible diagnostic technologies. Current TB tests face challenges such as low sensitivity, high costs, complexity, and the need for specialized equipment and sputum samples, making them unsuitable for all patients. In particular, children, people with conditions who cannot produce sputum, and those in resource-limited settings often struggle to receive timely diagnoses, causing the continued spread of the disease. To address this issue, the GHIT Fund has decided to invest approximately JPY 679 million (USD 4.5 million1) towards a new TB diagnostic development project by US-based diagnostic developer Fluxus, Inc., 4 in partnership with Fujirebio, Inc., a developer of clinical diagnostics in Japan,4 and Heidelberg University Hospital in Germany.

This project will leverage Fluxus’ cutting-edge ultrasensitive detection technology to develop and validate a urine-based TB biomarker lipoarabinomannan (LAM) assay on its automated benchtop immunoassay analyzer. Additionally, the project will design and develop critical components for a portable, ultrasensitive point-of-care (PoC) system that integrates the urine LAM test. This advanced technology will enable rapid, accurate, and accessible diagnosis across a broader patient population, contributing to improved clinical outcomes and reduced transmission.

In addition, the GHIT Fund will invest approximately JPY 15.9 million (USD 0.1 million1) in a screening project against Chagas disease and leishmaniasis by Kitasato University, Nagasaki University, University of Tokyo, and Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi).

Please refer to Appendix 1 for detailed descriptions on these projects and their development stages.

As of March 31, 2025, the GHIT Fund has invested in 36 projects, including 15 discovery projects, 12 preclinical projects, and 9 clinical trials.5 The total amount of investments since 2013 is JPY 38.2 billion (USD 255 million1) (Appendix 2).

1 USD1 = JPY149.53, the approximate exchange rate on March 31, 2025.
2 These awarded projects were selected and approved as new investments from among proposals to RFP2023-002 and RFP2024-001 for the Product Development Platform and the Screening Platform, which were open for applications from June 2023 to July 2024.
3 WHO: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tuberculosis
4
 Fluxus, Inc. and Fujirebio, Inc. are members of Fujirebio.
5 This number includes projects in the registration phase.

The GHIT Fund is a Japan-based international public-private partnership (PPP) fund that was formed between the Government of Japan, multiple pharmaceutical companies, the Gates Foundation, Wellcome, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The GHIT Fund invests in and manages an R&D portfolio of development partnerships aimed at addressing neglected diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases, which afflict the world’s vulnerable and underserved populations. In collaboration with global partners, the GHIT Fund mobilizes Japanese industry, academia, and research institutes to create new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics for malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases.
https://www.ghitfund.org/en

Appendix 1. Project Details

ID: G2023-204

Project Title

Ultrasensitive Detection of Urine LAM for Point-of-Care Rapid Diagnosis of All Forms
of Tuberculosis

Collaboration

Partners

1. Fluxus, Inc. (USA)

2. Fujirebio, Inc. (Japan)

3. Heidelberg University Hospital (Germany)

Disease

Tuberculosis

Intervention

Diagnostics

Stage

Product Design, Product development

Awarded Amount

JPY 679,783,110 (USD 4.54 million)

Status

New project

Summary

[Project objective]

To develop a prototype portable point-of-care (PoC) system and integrated ultrasensitive
assay for detection of Lipoarabinomannan (LAM) in urine. The test will be benchmarked
to a fully-validated ultrasensitive urine LAM assay being developed on Fluxus’
automated benchtop immunoassay analyzer.

 

[Project design]The project objectives will be achieved by performing the following Specific Aims: 1)
Complete development and validation of an ultrasensitive urine LAM assay on an
existing benchtop immunoassay analyzer. This essay will be adapted and transferred to a
stable and cost-effective PoC cartridge format. 2) Design and development of critical
components for a portable, ultrasensitive PoC system, with functional cartridge and prototype PoC LAM assay.

Project Detail

https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/240/en

ID: S2024-122

Project Title

Searching for Chagas disease therapeutic seed compounds from microbial cultures

Collaboration

Partners

1. Kitasato University (Japan)

2. Nagasaki University (Japan)

3. University of Tokyo (Japan)

4. Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) (Switzerland)

Disease

Chagas disease / Leishmaniasis

Intervention

Drug

Stage

Screening

Awarded Amount

JPY 15,945,864 (USD 106,639)

Status

New project

Summary

[Project objective]

The main objective of our proposed project is to identify novel T. cruzi active scaffolds
meeting GHIT/DNDi hit criteria and amenable for further development by screening
microbial cultured broths with a natural product chemistry approach. We aim at
characterizing at least five T. new chemical templates unprecedently associated with T.
cruzi
activity over an 18-month work period. We will also opportunistically evaluate the
anti-Leishmania donovani activity of any antichagasic agent to be identified in the course
of the project.

 

[Project design]In this project, three academic institutions (Kitasato University, Nagasaki University, and
the University of Tokyo) and DNDi will utilize their expertise to identify at least five
seed compounds for Chagas disease therapeutics produced by microorganisms in a one-
and-a-half-year research period. The seed compounds for Chagas disease therapeutics to
be identified during the project will also be assessed for their activity against Leishmania
donovani
, which causes visceral leishmaniasis, to verify their drug potential.

Project Detail

https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/241/en

*All amounts are listed at an exchange rate of USD1 = JPY149.53, the approximate exchange rate on March 31, 2025.

Appendix 2. Investment Overview (as of March 31, 2025)

Investments to date
Total investments: 38.2 billion yen (USD 255 million1)
Total invested projects: 136 (36 active projects and 100 completed projects)

To learn more about the GHIT Fund’s investments, please visit
Investment Overview: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/overview/en
Portfolio: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfolio/en
Advancing Portfolio: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/advancingportfolio/en
Clinical Candidates: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/clinicalcandidates/en 

For more information, contact:
Katy Lenard at +1-301-280-5719 or klenard@burness.com
Mina Ohata at +81-36441-2032 or mina.ohata@ghitfund.org

NEC Asia Pacific Achieves ISO 14001 Certification in Singapore, Reinforcing Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

SINGAPORE, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NEC Asia Pacific (NEC APAC), the ASEAN regional headquarters of global technology firm NEC Corporation, has successfully achieved ISO 14001:2015 certification, demonstrating its steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability and operational excellence.

Takayuki Inaba (right), CEO and MD of NEC Asia Pacific, with Mak Heng Chwin (Mak), Regional Manager APAC IME of DNV Business Assurance
Takayuki Inaba (right), CEO and MD of NEC Asia Pacific, with Mak Heng Chwin (Mak), Regional Manager APAC IME of DNV Business Assurance

ISO 14001 is the internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems (EMS). It provides a framework for organizations to design and implement an EMS and continually improve their environmental performance[i]. By attaining this certification, NEC APAC proves its dedication in implementing effective environmental policies, reducing environmental impact, and complying with regulatory requirements.

“This certification reflects the collective efforts of our employees in embedding sustainability into our work culture and daily operations,” said Mr. Takayuki Inaba, CEO and Managing Director of NEC APAC. “We underwent a rigorous process that involved staff training, building awareness, and rethinking how we design customer solutions to be more energy efficient. Internally, we promoted a culture of circularity—emphasizing recycling, resource optimization, and waste reduction.”

He added, “This is not the destination, but an ongoing journey. As we celebrate 125 years of innovation and progress, we continue to review and enhance our practices to further minimise our environmental footprint. Beyond the workplace, we aim to cultivate environmental consciousness as a way of life and encourage our employees to carry sustainable thinking wherever they go.”

NEC’s pursuit of being a trusted partner in sustainability extends beyond certification. The company is strongly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which encompass global priorities such as climate action, responsible consumption, and inclusive economic growth. NEC actively supports all 17 SDGs through its technologies, partnerships, and corporate initiatives that address social and environmental challenges worldwide.

With the ISO 14001 certification, NEC APAC reaffirms its role as a responsible corporate citizen, committed to creating a more sustainable future through innovation, compliance, and environmental stewardship.

About NEC APAC

In NEC Asia Pacific, we lead in propelling Singapore’s Smart Nation initiatives, integrating trusted technology with social responsibility. As a leading information and communications technology provider, we provide innovative solutions through AI, analytics, data, digital services, enterprise infrastructure, and Managed Services to promote safety, security, and enhance the quality of life for individuals and the community.

Our technological advancements, dedicated to privacy and ethical usage, solidify trust among businesses and citizens.

Together with our research laboratories, NEC Asia Pacific provides cutting-edge public safety, cybersecurity technologies, and enterprise solutions to enable smart and sustainable cities, with a vision to create a brighter future.

For more information and to learn more about NEC Asia Pacific’s innovative solutions, please visit https://sg.nec.com/.

[i] https://www.iso.org/standard/60857.html

VARON Advocates for Sustainability on Earth Day with Eco-Friendly Oxygen Solutions

NEW YORK, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This Earth Day, VARON is proud to reaffirm its commitment to both respiratory health and environmental responsibility. As a global leader in oxygen concentrator technology, VARON continues to advance sustainable innovation, offering eco-friendly alternatives to traditional oxygen delivery systems. By designing energy-efficient, long-lasting, and low-emission medical devices, VARON is actively contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet.

A Healthier You and a Healthier Earth

Earth Day serves as a vital reminder of the connection between individual health and planetary well-being. For those managing chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD, sleep apnea, or long-term oxygen therapy needs, reliable oxygen access is non-negotiable. However, the environmental cost of conventional oxygen delivery methods—especially oxygen tanks—has historically been overlooked.

Unlike metal tanks that require frequent refills and emit significant carbon during oxygen production, filling, and transport, VARON’s oxygen concentrators offer a sustainable, self-generating solution. These devices pull in ambient air, filter it, and deliver purified oxygen directly to the user. This not only reduces dependency on heavy-duty logistical operations but also eliminates the carbon footprint associated with regular refilling and tank disposal.

Energy Efficiency Engineered Into Every Device

VARON’s product lineup is designed with efficiency in mind. One standout innovation is the VP series, including the VP-1 and VP-2 portable oxygen concentrators, which feature dual-mode auto-sense oxygen delivery systems. These oxygen concentrators automatically adjust their pulse flows based on the user’s breathing pattern. The adaptive system optimizes power usage, helping to lower electricity consumption by up to 30% compared to fixed-flow devices.

Additionally, the VH-3 home oxygen concentrator comes equipped with an intuitive display that can be turned off when not in use, reducing energy draw. This simple yet effective design tweak ensures minimal power waste and reflects VARON’s attention to even the smallest environmental details.

Another example of innovation meeting sustainability is the VT-1 travel oxygen concentrator, a versatile device offering both pulse and continuous flow options. This flexibility enables users to choose lower power modes when appropriate, extending battery life and reducing cumulative energy demands, especially important for mobile and travel use.

Built to Last, Designed to Reduce Waste

Durability is a key component of VARON’s green philosophy. Every VARON oxygen concentrator is manufactured using high-quality, robust materials engineered to withstand long-term, everyday use. The devices are built to outlast the typical lifespan of cheaper or disposable alternatives, significantly reducing e-waste and replacement frequency.

According to industry data, oxygen concentrators with lower-quality components require replacement or repair up to 50% more frequently than their high-performance counterparts. By minimizing the need for frequent upgrades or disposal, VARON’s machines help lower the environmental toll associated with medical device turnover.

Sustainable Manufacturing and Smarter Distribution

Beyond product design, VARON has taken steps to improve sustainability across its entire supply chain. From sourcing recyclable packaging materials to streamlining global logistics to reduce carbon emissions, the company’s end-to-end production model reflects a deep-rooted respect for the environment.

Unlike oxygen tanks that must be transported via specialized carriers due to safety concerns, VARON’s concentrators are classified as non-hazardous and compact. This allows for lighter, more efficient shipping methods, reducing the ecological footprint of both domestic and international deliveries.

Committed to a Greener Future

“As a healthcare technology provider, we understand our responsibility extends beyond our customers’ lungs to the air we all breathe,” said VARON CEO. “This Earth Day, we’re proud to spotlight how our innovations are helping protect the planet, while improving quality of life.”

As global awareness of climate change and environmental degradation grows, VARON continues to explore new avenues for sustainability. From R&D investment in solar-compatible oxygen units to participation in eco-initiatives and environmental certifications, the company remains dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint.

A Breath of Fresh Air for Earth

With thoughtful engineering, eco-conscious operations, and a strong commitment to long-term durability, VARON sets itself apart as a leader in sustainable respiratory care. On Earth Day and every day, VARON invites individuals, caregivers, and healthcare providers to join the movement toward a healthier planet—starting with every breath.

For more information about VARON and its line of energy-efficient oxygen concentrators, visit https://varoninc.com/pages/varon-oxygen-concentrator-2025-earth-day

About VARON
VARON is a trusted global brand specializing in the design and manufacture of advanced oxygen concentrators for home and portable use. With a focus on performance, safety, and sustainability, VARON combines cutting-edge technology with user-centric design to improve the quality of life for individuals requiring respiratory support. Committed to environmental stewardship and medical innovation, VARON continues to set the standard for energy-efficient oxygen solutions worldwide.

Media Contact: Winnie Li, official@varoninc.com 

ESG Xchange 2025 | The Premier Global ESG and Innovation Summit in Hong Kong

Sign up for FREE PASS : https://esgxchangehk.com/register


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2025 – The World Green Organisation (WGO) proudly presents ESG Xchange 2025, set to take place on May 6–7, 2025 at Hall 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). This international flagship summit will bring together over 2,500 global leaders from the fields of ESG, climate finance, sustainable development, and technology innovation.

ESG Xchange 2025

This two-day summit is designed to unite high-level stakeholders, industry leaders, and innovators to drive transformative actions in sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices.

Event Overview
The theme of this year’s event is Sustainability, ESG and Carbon Neutrality, Conference Partners and Key Supporting Orgnisations such as United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), Hong Kong Stock Exchanges (HKEX), Financial Services Development Council (FSDC), Cyberport, Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). With a focus on fostering global sustainable development, the summit aims to empower enterprises in achieving green transformation, advance green finance, and enhance regional collaboration.

ESG Xchange 2025 -highlights

Key Highlights of the Summit

1. International Thought Leadership Platform
Featuring speakers from ISSB, UNEP FI, TNFD, and GRI, alongside global corporate executives and policy advisors, the Main Stage and Pavilion Stages will address ESG regulatory trends, disclosure standards, and strategic foresight.

2. Technology & Innovation Exhibition Zone
Showcasing over 30 local and international tech ventures in areas such as carbon neutrality, ESG data, smart cities, AI-powered sustainability, and green supply chain management.

3.
Business Matching & Market Expansion Opportunities
A dedicated Networking & Matchmaking Lounge will connect participants with investors, corporate buyers, accelerators, and market advisors from the Middle East, ASEAN, Europe, and Mainland China.

4. Thematic Program Tracks

  • “Going Global” Strategy Forum for outbound enterprises
  • “Cambridge Session” on navigating the European ESG and compliance landscape
  • AI and Climate Tech Pitching Sessions
  • Youth Climate Leadership Forum and the Global Carbon Neutrality Campus Alliance Exchange


Core Attendee Profiles

  • 20–30 top Mainland Chinese enterprises and over 200 representatives from Hong Kong listed companies across key industries
  • Business diplomats from foreign consulates in Hong Kong
  • Strategic and international business development teams
  • Technology startups and R&D innovators
  • Asset managers, ESG investors, and sustainable finance professionals
  • International and regional chambers of commerce
  • Academia and climate-focused university alliances (Carbon Neutrality leaders from top universities across Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, sharing insights on low-carbon transition and campus sustainability strategies)
  • NGOs and youth advocates engaged in social innovation

Participants can expect engaging discussions with global leaders, keynote speeches, and specialized workshops on crucial topics such as climate risk modeling, green finance standards, and digital ESG solutions.

Impact of Previous Events
ESG Xchange has established itself as a vital platform over the past years, successfully bringing together diverse stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable solutions. The previous edition attracted over 1,000 participants, including C-suite executives and key decision-makers, demonstrating its significance in the ESG landscape.

Be Part of the Change
ESG Xchange 2025 is more than a summit — it is a dynamic platform to network, co-create, and transform. Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, investor, or startup founder, this event offers unmatched access to ESG strategies, technologies, and global business opportunities.

Date: May 6–7, 2025
Time: 9 A.M – 6 P.M.
Venue: Hall 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Register Now: https://esgxchangehk.com/register

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event. For more information and to register, please visit ESG Xchange 2025.

Hashtag: #WGO #ESG #Innovation #Sustainability #CarbonNeutrality #ESGXCHANGE2025 #Internationalsummit #HKCEC #UNESCAP #HKEX #FSDC #Cyberport #SFC #ISSB #UNEPFI #TNFD #GRI #TNFD #SBTi #CDP #MSCI




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

World Green Organisation

The World Green Organisation (WGO) is an independent non-governmental organization dedicated to environmental conservation and promoting sustainable development. Through science-based public policies, community projects, and partnerships, WGO aims to improve the economy, the environment, and livelihoods, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all sectors of society.

For more details about the event and sponsorship opportunities, please visit: