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‘Human Zoo?’ Chiang Mai Cafe Ignites Debate Across Social Media

A female doctor posted a photo of herself visiting the venue, located inside a functioning tobacco sorting factory. Chiang Mai, 23 April 2025.

A café in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, has stirred heated debate on Thai social media after a doctor posted a photo of herself visiting the venue, located inside a functioning tobacco sorting factory.

In her caption, the doctor described the café, identified as Y…CNX, as a place where visitors can “experience local life” while sipping drinks and watching workers sort tobacco leaves. She called it part of an “urgent black-and-white mission” in Chiang Mai.

The post quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions. Some praised the café as offering a unique cultural experience, while others criticized it as a “human zoo,” accusing it of turning labor into spectacle and highlighting class divides.

Critics argued that watching people work for entertainment is demeaning and exploitative. Defenders countered that the concept honors traditional work and allows younger generations to learn about local industries.

In response to the backlash, the doctor stood by her post. In a comment, she wrote:

“I disagree with the term ‘human zoo’—it reflects shallow, generalized thinking. It’s disrespectful to the workers, who have honor and dignity. We should be grateful they’re willing to share their way of life with others.”

The café’s owners also issued a statement explaining that the space is part of a family-run tobacco factory, with roots going back to the founder’s grandfather. They emphasized that the goal was not to exploit workers, but to preserve and share local heritage.

“The workers you see here are skilled professionals doing real seasonal work, from January to May, with fair wages,” the owners said. “This café was created not for entertainment, but as a place to learn about meaningful occupations and honor the dignity of those who do them.”

The controversy has sparked broader discussion about the line between cultural appreciation and exploitation in tourism, and whether well-meaning intentions are enough to justify uncomfortable optics.

Guangxi Environmental Protection Industry Investment Group Shines at the Vietnam-China-ASEAN Energy Expo 2025

HANOI, Vietnam, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This is a report from china-asean-media.com.

Guangxi Environmental Protection Industry Investment Group Shines at the Vietnam-China-ASEAN Energy Expo 2025
Guangxi Environmental Protection Industry Investment Group Shines at the Vietnam-China-ASEAN Energy Expo 2025

On April 24, 2025, the Vietnam-China-ASEAN Energy Expo 2025 grandly opened at the International Center for Exhibition in Hanoi, Vietnam.

As a leading enterprise in Guangxi’s environmental protection industry, Guangxi Environmental Protection Industry Investment Group, together with Guangxi Guineng Power Reserve Corporation and Guangxi Jingfei Energy Corporation, formed the “Guangxi Environment Protection Delegation” to make an eye-catching appearance at the event. They actively participated in this international gathering, injecting strong momentum into regional green energy development.

The booth of the delegation prominently showcased cutting-edge technologies and innovation achievements in green energy, technological innovation, artificial intelligence, and photovoltaic components. Among the highlights, the Zero-Carbon Industrial Demonstration Park presented new ideas for industrial green transformation through innovative energy recycling models, low-carbon technologies, and AI-driven operation and maintenance systems. Meanwhile, the China-ASEAN Smart Platform for Building Energy and Carbon Emissions leveraged the integration of “AI + Internet of Things” to offer personalized energy-saving solutions.

During the expo, Guangxi’s environmental protection enterprises signed Memorandums of Understanding and Strategic Cooperation Agreements with the Vietnam Energy Association and the Vietnam Automation Association. They also organized “Green Encounters” volunteer activities, facilitating the exchange and sharing of environmental protection concepts between Chinese and Vietnamese participants through on-site explanations and interactive experiences.

Authentic European Delights for Spring and Beyond – HOFEX 2025 Presentation


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2025 – For spring, celebrations and gatherings, food lovers in Hong Kong are invited to indulge in a tantalising array of traditional European delicacies through the “Enjoy the Authentic Joy from Europe” campaign. This campaign brings together four iconic deli meats – Mortadella Bologna PGI, Salamini Italiani alla Cacciatora PDO, Cotechino Modena PGI and Zampone Modena PGI – all of which showcase the best of European flavours and heritage.

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As part of the campaign, these premium deli meats will be showcased at HOFEX 2025, Asia’s premier food and hospitality trade show, from 14-16 May 2025 at booth 3D-D20.

Food enthusiasts and trade professionals alike will have the chance to experience first-hand the quality and authenticity of these products, which have earned recognition through the European Union’s prestigious PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) and PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certifications.

Adding European Deli Meats to Your Spring Feast

In celebration of spring, these premium and versatile deli meats can easily be incorporated into a range of festive dishes that are guaranteed to impress your guests. Here are four delightful recipe ideas to bring the authentic flavours of Europe to your spring table:

  • Salad with Mortadella Bologna PGI: This recipe combines soft, aromatic slices of Mortadella Bologna with a medley of crisp greens, offering the perfect balance of savoury and freshness.
  • Lentil and Salamini Italiani alla Cacciatora PDO Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: A healthy and hearty dish, this salad pairs Salamini Italiani alla Cacciatora PDO’s sweet and delicate flavour with earthy lentils and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
  • Stuffed Zucchini with Cotechino Modena PGI: This recipe involves stuffing tender zucchini with Cotechino Modena PGI, creating a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for the springtime.
  • Zampone Modena PGI Dandan Udon: Zampone Modena PGI meeting springy udon noodles coated in a bold Sichuan-inspired sauce, will definitely add a fiery fusion vibe to your dinner.

The Legacy of European Deli Meats

Mortadella Bologna PGI, Salamini Italiani alla Cacciatora PDO, Zampone Medona PGI and Cotechino Modena PGI are made from the highest quality ingredients and centuries-old traditions, representing the finest in European craftsmanship.

Mortadella Bologna PGI is created from finely ground pork, a blend of spices, and is often studded with pistachios. A beloved European deli meat with a longstanding history, its smooth texture and slightly sweet flavour is perfect for adding to dishes or enjoyed on its own as part of a traditional antipasto platter.

Salamini Italiani alla Cacciatora PDO are small, ruby-red, cured sausages crafted using high quality pork and seasoned with garlic, pepper, and salt. Traditionally carried by hunters, this deli meat’s sweet and delicate flavour is perfect for pairing with cheeses and fruits or adding to salads and pureed dishes.

Cotechino Modena PGI and Zampone Modena PGI are made from pork encased in pig skin and in pig trotter’s skin respectively. Seasoned with traditional spices, they deliver punchy yet refined flavour. Whilst traditionally enjoyed during festive occasions, particularly New Year’s Eve, these delicacies have become everyday favourites over the years.

HOFEX 2025: Asia’s Gateway to European Culinary Excellence

Discover the heritage and craftsmanship behind these exceptional deli meats at HOFEX 2025, which will be launched in Hongkong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Visitors to booth 3D-D20 will enjoy tastings prepared by an expert chef, as well as daily workshops where they can learn about the production processes and unique qualities of these world-class products where the representatives from the three Consortia behind the campaign will also be present.

Don’t hesitate to sign up for one or more workshops! Click here.

The “Enjoy the Authentic Joy from Europe” campaign is a collaborative effort between three prestigious consortia – Consorzio Italiano Tutela Mortadella Bologna, Consorzio Cacciatore Italiano, and Consorzio Zampone e Cotechino Modena IGP – and is co-financed by the European Union. These non-profit organisations work to preserve and promote their regions’ culinary heritage, ensuring that every product bearing the PGI and PDO labels meets the highest standards of quality, authenticity, and nutritional value.

Join us at HOFEX 2025, 14-16 May, to experience the rich flavours and traditions of some of Europe’s finest culinary exports.

Interested consumers can also check out the campaign’s website https://www.enjoytheauthenticjoy.co/ and social media accounts – Instagram and Facebook – for the latest news and updates with more announcements to follow soon.

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The content of this promotion campaign represents the views of the author only and is his/her sole responsibility. The European Commission and the European Research Executive Agency (REA) do not accept any responsibility for any use that may be made of the information it contains.
Hashtag: #HOFEX2025

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

Xtep– Market Leader in Global Running Shoe Sales and China’s Marathon Event in 2024

XIAMEN, China, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With the increasing popularity of healthy lifestyles and the widespread promotion of fitness, the global athletic footwear and apparel market continues to expand, driven by rising consumer demand for high-performance running products. In 2024, the global running shoe market reached $51.3 billion. The growth of this sector is primarily fueled by the following factors — rising health awareness and mass adoption of Marathons races. As there is a growing emphasis on health and fitness, it has encouraged more consumers to engage in running, driving demand for professional running shoes, functional sportswear, and related accessories.

Furthermore, the increasing participation in marathons and road running events has significantly expanded the market for performance running shoes and running gear, with athletes showing a growing preference for high-performance footwear and smart wearable devices.

Among all sportswear brands, Chinese sportswear brands have gained increasing recognition in global markets, transitioning from regional players to internationally competitive brands. With the global rise of Chinese trend culture, overseas consumers have shown growing awareness and demand toward the fashion-forward designs, high value-for-money, and deep cultural elements embedded in Chinese brands.

Chinese sports brands have strengthened their global presence through strategic initiatives such as collaborating with international ambassadors, sponsoring major sporting events, and expanding global sales channels. These efforts have significantly enhanced brand influence on the international stage. Meanwhile, leading Chinese sports brands such as Li-Ning, ANTA, and Xtep have ramped up investments in product research and development, technological innovation, and sustainable materials, enabling them to deliver internationally competitive products with superior performance, comfort, and quality. As consumer preferences evolve, a growing number of international buyers are choosing Chinese brands, further solidifying their global market share and accelerating their transition towards premiumization and internationalization.

Chinese sports brands have also increased their presence in national marathon events, with domestic running shoes demonstrating growing stability in professional races and significantly higher adoption rates among athletes. Meanwhile, marathon participation has surged across China, with both event numbers and scale expanding in parallel. In 2024, China hosted 749 road races of various levels, attracting over 7.04 million participants, reflecting the growing mass adoption and regional expansion of marathon events in the country.

As marathon participation rises, demand for professional running gear continues to escalate, with performance running shoes, moisture-wicking apparel, and GPS smartwatches becoming essential for runners. This trend has not only driven the expansion of the performance running gear market but also fueled continuous advancements in running shoe design and technology. Runners and marathon participants now form a key consumer segment, with their increasing demand serving as a crucial driver of market growth.

Sports brands play a pivotal role in marathon sponsorship, with running shoes being highly aligned with marathon event content, making them a natural fit for sports marketing initiatives. The broad exposure and high engagement levels in marathon events provide sports brands with greater visibility and stronger marketing effectiveness. As a result, marathon events have become a critical marketing battleground for sports brands, further strengthening brand recognition and competitiveness in the performance sportswear market.

Xtep – The Market Leader in Professional Running Shoes

As a well-known domestic sports brand, Xtep has solidified its position in the running shoe sector by making running footwear its core product focus while leveraging extensive exposure through marathon sponsorships. Since initiating its strategic expansion into the running shoes’ category in 2007, Xtep has continuously deepened its presence in the running track. After more than a decade of accumulation and refinement, it has established a solid foundation in technology R&D and product innovation, successfully transforming from a mass sportswear brand into a professional running brand. This strategic approach has successfully positioned Xtep as a top choice among consumers in the running shoe market.

Designed specifically for running, running shoes play a critical role in ensuring safety and enhancing athletic performance. Through deep insights into runners’ needs and continuous optimization of product performance, Xtep has built a solid foundation in running shoe technology and launched professional racing shoes. With lightweight design, advanced carbon plate technology, and exceptional cushioning performance, the shoes have been widely recognized by professional runners and core user groups, becoming their preferred choice for training and competition. Xtep’s flagship product, the 160X product series, has consistently garnered global recognition and prestigious running shoe awards for its exceptional performance and advanced technology.

Leveraging its product advantages, Xtep achieved outstanding sales performance across all distribution channels in 2024, marking a significant leap in market share and reinforcing its leadership in the industry.

In addition, Xtep continues to expand its influence in the running industry through deep engagement in marathon events and the establishment of a comprehensive runner ecosystem. Through years of continuous in-depth communication and interaction with runners, Xtep has gradually built a one-stop professional service system covering product experience, foot shape and gait analysis, scientific training guidance, and post-race recovery. This comprehensive approach not only enhances the end-to-end sports experience for runners but also enables the brand to gain more accurate insights into the real needs of different runner groups, providing ongoing feedback and support for product development and service optimization.

Xtep’s full-spectrum running shoe portfolio caters to a wide range of running needs—from daily training and competitive racing for professional marathon runners to everyday running for recreational athletes. This comprehensive product lineup meets the diverse usage scenarios of runners at all levels, achieving full market coverage from elite racing to mass participation.

Xtep continues to support China’s road running events and sponsored a total of 44 marathon races nationwide in 2024. With its expanding market share in recent years, Xtep has emerged as a leading brand in the domestic and international running shoe industry.

As a result, Xtep has become one of the most prominent sponsors of marathon events, steadily increasing its market share in the running shoe segment. With its continuous innovation and market expansion, Xtep has firmly established itself as a leading brand in the global running shoe industry.

Based on extensive market research, Frost & Sullivan has officially recognized Xtep International Holdings Limited for its outstanding market leadership. Xtep has been awarded the “Global Leading Brand in terms of Sales Volume of Running shoes in 2024” and “Top-Ranked Running Shoe Brand by Wearing Rate in China’s Marathons in 2024”, affirming its dominant position in both global sales and nationwide marathon participation.

State Grid Jinchang Power Supply Company: Charging the Future from Home

JINCHANG, China, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On April 22, at the Century Jindu East Zone Fast Charging Station in Jinchuan District, Jinchang City, Gansu Province, Shi Weilong, a staff member of State Grid Jinchang Power Supply Company, conducted equipment status monitoring on charging piles. 

In April, Jinchang is adorned with vibrant peach blossoms and lush willow branches in its mountains and forests. With the increase in cross-regional travel, homecomings, and family visits, the demand for reliable power supply at transportation facilities has grown. To address the electricity needs during weekends and holidays, the company has adopted proactive services to ensure safe and stable power supply for key transportation hubs such as airports, railway stations, and highway service areas. This effort safeguards seamless charging for new energy vehicles (NEVs), provides comprehensive support for green travel, and ensures robust power supply for the public during holiday celebrations. 

To guarantee efficient and reliable charging services during peak travel periods, the company combines daily inspections with special inspections for comprehensive maintenance of charging stations, better meeting the green travel demands of residents. During inspections, staff thoroughly check the operational status, exterior, charging guns, and dedicated power supply equipment of charging piles to ensure all components function properly. They meticulously verify secure connections, responsive touchscreens, accurate indicator lights and interface displays, intact charging pile exteriors, and complete signage around the stations. Additionally, the company has established individual charging pile management files to document and resolve identified issues, promptly eliminating safety risks and ensuring healthy operation of charging equipment. 

“Charging new energy vehicles is now very convenient. Charging stations are built right at our neighborhood entrances, offering online payment options. A full charge lets me drive up to 300 kilometers, which is cost-effective,” said Pan Xiaotong, an NEV owner charging at the station. 

To date, the company has completed inspections of 34 charging stations within its jurisdiction, addressed two potential hazards, and distributed over 200 copies of electrical safety materials, ensuring stable operation of charging facilities and worry-free travel for NEV owners. 

Moving forward, the company will refine its safeguards, intensify inspections, improve charging pile maintenance, and enhance charging efficiency. By providing safer, more convenient, and faster supporting facilities for NEVs, it remains committed to safeguarding green and low-carbon travel during holidays.

 

BlueFocus Hits RMB 60 Billion in 2024 Revenue, with AI-Powered Growth Surging Tenfold

BEIJING, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On the evening of April 24, BlueFocus released its 2024 annual report, posting full-year revenue of RMB 60.797 billion, up 15.55% year-on-year. It is now the first marketing company in China to surpass RMB 60 billion in annual revenue.

AI integration in BlueFocus
AI integration in BlueFocus

Amid technology transformation and global expansion, the company recorded a positive inflection in operating gross margin, supported in part by significant growth in AI-driven business.

“BlueFocus has entered what is arguably the most strategically focused and decisive era in its history,” said Fei Pan, CEO of BlueFocus. “We are committed to transforming into a true AI-powered marketing technology company, tapping into the trillion-RMB-scale opportunities emerging from the restructuring of both China’s marketing industry and the global outbound market.”

Since 2023, the company has fully committed to an “All in AI” strategy, developing its proprietary industry model, BlueAI, now powering over 95% of operational workflows. Efficiency gains across integrated marketing, intelligent advertising, and global outbound business have improved by 60% to 1000%. In 2024, AI-driven revenue reached RMB 1.2 billion, surging more than tenfold year-on-year.

Looking ahead, BlueFocus anticipates AI-driven revenue to reach RMB 3–5 billion in 2025 and surpass RMB 10 billion longer-term. Fei Pan noted, “Reaching this milestone will be measured by three benchmarks: high gross margins, high AI integration intensity, and the creation of revenue models enabled by AI. Ultimately, 70% to 80% of BlueFocus’s revenue must be reinvented through AI, transforming into high-quality revenue streams.”

Meanwhile, BlueFocus’s Globalization 2.0 strategy is advancing at pace. In 2024, overseas advertising revenue reached RMB 48.333 billion, representing a 29.36% year-on-year increase and accounting for nearly 80% of total revenue. Advertising revenue generated through strategic partners including Meta, Google, and TikTok for Business continued to deliver double-digit growth.

BlueFocus is also accelerating the expansion of its localized network, having established offices in the United States, Singapore, Japan, the Netherlands, Vietnam, Thailand, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil. It plans to open an additional three to five branches across Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America.

Powered by the synergy between its AI strategy and Globalization 2.0 initiatives, BlueFocus is poised to redefine marketing valuation standards. Its ambition is to evolve into a marketing technology leader rooted in technological innovation and driven by a bold global vision, ultimately becoming a defining Chinese example in the evolution of the global marketing landscape.

 

THAI Airways Bolsters the Role of Nordic–Asia Pacific Connectivity Hub to Celebrate 120 Years of Thai–Norwegian Diplomatic Relations


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2025 – Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) moves forward to elevate its strategic role as a Nordic–Asia Pacific aviation hub with daily non-stop flights between Bangkok and Oslo. Thai Airways proudly provides world-class full-service travel experiences for business travelers, tourists, and Nordic residents alike—ensuring convenience and comfort throughout the flight.

Seamless daily flights between Oslo and Bangkok: Your gateway to the Nordic-Asia Pacific region.
Seamless daily flights between Oslo and Bangkok: Your gateway to the Nordic-Asia Pacific region.

The daily Bangkok–Oslo direct flight serves as a central link between Nordic and Asia-Pacific regions, enabling travelers to smoothly connect from Oslo to key Scandinavian cities, including Stockholm, Helsinki, Iceland, and Copenhagen. Likewise, this route also allows passengers to conveniently transit through Bangkok to access major Asia-Pacific destinations such as Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne, Ho Chi Minh City, Bali, Vientiane, and Phnom Penh, via THAI’s extensive partner network. Passengers from both regions can therefore plan their business and leisure trips easily and smoothly.

To commemorate the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the Kingdom of Norway, Thai Airways proudly supports the “Charity Walk–Run in Oslo” event, scheduled for June 22, 2025. Organized by the Royal Thai Embassy in Oslo in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, the event aims to foster the profound and enduring international cooperation that has been established since 1905 with the historic visit of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) to the Kingdom of Norway, marking official diplomatic ties between the two Kingdoms.

All proceeds from the “Charity Walk–Run in Oslo” event, with no deductions, will go to Siriraj Hospital’s fund for underprivileged patients. Travelers are cordially invited to join this special activity and may book their flights at https://www.thaiairways.com/flights/en-th/flights-to-oslo or through their nearest authorized travel agents.

Hashtag: #ThaiAirways #Thai #Bangkok #Oslo #Norway #Nordics #APACHub #AlwaysThai #flights

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

ChangAn Automobile Releases Three Strategic Action Plans at Auto Shanghai 2025, Outlining New Global Blueprint

SHANGHAI, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ChangAn Automobile (“ChangAn” or “the Company”), an intelligent low-carbon mobility technology company, has unveiled its forward-looking roadmap under the theme “Together for a Smarter World” at Auto Shanghai 2025, which is being held from April 23 to May 2 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. The Company’s three strategies — its new energy Shangri-La Mission, Dubhe Plan for intelligence, and its Vast Ocean Plan for global expansion — usher in a new chapter of strategic upgrades and innovation for ChangAn. Major breakthroughs for the Company include debuting multiple new energy models, deploying intelligent driving technology, boosting international sales, and developing a manufacturing facility in Thailand.

ChangAn’s Shangri-La Mission, aiming to continuously enrich its product portfolio over the next five years, will introduce 45 all-new models globally, including 37 new energy models. In 2025 alone, 20 new models are set to launch, with 12 new energy vehicles such as the AVATR 06, DEEPAL S09, and CHANG-AN Q07. In partnership with CATL, ChangAn is advancing key electrolyte technologies and accelerating solid-state battery development. A prototype will debut by late 2025, with installation tests in 2026 and mass production by 2027. The company also unveiled its intelligent battery collision monitoring system and Kirin 4C fast-charging battery.

Under its Dubhe 2.0 Plan, ChangAn will invest 20 billion yuan over five years to advance AI large model development and end-to-end assisted driving. Another 20 billion yuan will support growth in the low-altitude economy, including flying cars. The Intelligent TS Drive, TY Cockpit, and TH Chassis systems will be comprehensively upgraded, alongside over 50 intelligent features. Five versions of Intelligent TS Drive assisted driving system will be released, catering to varying user needs, with the LiDAR PRO version set for mass production by late 2025. ChangAn will invest over 200 billion yuan in new automotive technologies in the next decade, launch test flights for flying cars this year, and target humanoid robot production by 2028. Its NextLab in Shanghai anchors global design innovation.

Under its Vast Ocean Plan, ChangAn will invest over $15 billion globally by 2030, targeting annual international sales of 1.5 million vehicles and expanding its overseas workforce to 10,000. The Company’s global market strategy will shift to a “6+2” layout, elevating five key regions to match the strategic level of China. International market capacity will grow from 30 million to 50 million, with 11 KD projects launching in countries including Kazakhstan and Egypt, adding 500,000 units in production capacity. ChangAn will enter new markets, including Brazil, Algeria, Indonesia, Germany, and Australia, aiming for full coverage of five major regions by 2026.

“Despite strong headwinds and a long journey ahead, ChangAn Automobile will press forward with unwavering determination,” said Zhu Huarong, Chairman of ChangAn Automobile. “With our historical spirit of ‘innovating through change and persisting through adversity,’ our deep cultural heritage, consistent strategic execution, outstanding team, and robust R&D capabilities, we firmly believe we can ride the waves, accelerate high-quality transformation, and achieve our vision of building a world-class auto brand. We will contribute more ChangAn strength to our mission of ‘leading sustainable mobility and benefiting human life.'”

About ChangAn Automobile

ChangAn is an intelligent low-carbon mobility technology company. Its product lineup includes passenger vehicles, pick-ups, and light commercial vehicles. Powered by innovation and industrial upgrading, the Company is committed to advancing sustainable mobility and becoming a global industry leader.