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Global Times: How Guangxi snack ‘snail rice noodles’ becomes signature industry to fuel poverty reduction

BEIJING, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In the bustling alleys of Liuzhou, South China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the aroma of snail rice noodles, or Luosifen, wafts through the air, drawing locals and visitors alike into the myriad of shops that line the narrow streets. The dish of rice noodles boiled with pickled bamboo shoots, dried turnip, fresh vegetables, and peanuts in spiced river snail soup – a little stinky but flavorful – has surged in popularity across China and beyond, becoming a culinary emblem of Liuzhou and a symbol of China’s gastronomic culture in the world.

This bowl of Luosifen embodies how over a hundred impoverished villages in Liuzhou triumphed in the battle against poverty before 2020, transforming the city into the vibrant hub it is today, while elevating a local delicacy into a global stage.

In the heart of Liuzhou, the local community has harnessed the potential of snail rice noodles to fill farmers’ pockets, forge new pathways out of poverty, and drive industrial development. As the demand for this delicacy skyrocketed, the agricultural sectors supplying its ingredients flourished, becoming a vital engine for revitalizing both the local economy and rural communities.

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited machinery manufacturer Guangxi Liugong Group Co., Ltd., and a food-processing zone for local specialty Luosifen rice noodles on April 26, 2021. He learned about the reform and innovation of enterprises, and the development of the manufacturing industry and distinctive local businesses, the Xinhua News Agency reported.

Noting that developing signature industries is a practical measure to boost the real economy, Xi called for more support for private enterprises to help them grow. The snack industry is just a part of China’s rural industries, which range from planting and breeding to agricultural product processing and tourism, according to Xinhua.

This dish, once a simple street food, has become a key to industrial advancement and a beacon of hope for poverty alleviation. Farmers now enjoy stable incomes and local job opportunities, while businesses export high-quality, distinctive products overseas. Young entrepreneurs are returning to their hometowns to realize their dreams of success.

Now, under Xi’s encouragement, the aspirations of the local community are creating a tapestry of prosperity woven with the threads of snail rice noodles.

A bite of China

To promote Liuzhou’s culinary culture and stimulate related consumption, in 2010, Liuzhou launched initiatives to promote Luosifen beyond its local area, and in 2012, Luosifen gained fame through the hit documentary “A Bite of China.” Since then, Liuzhou Luosifen has continued to gain popularity, giving rise to a pre-packaged Luosifen market.

In 2014, the first packaged snail noodles were introduced to the market. This local delicacy, once challenging to preserve and transport, began its journey to national prominence.

Today, packaged snail noodles are exported to over 30 countries and regions. Each bowl of snail noodles has generated more than 300,000 jobs, lifted 5,500 impoverished households and 28,000 individuals out of poverty, and stimulated the development of hundreds of thousands of acres of raw material bases, including rice, bamboo shoots, green beans, and black fungus. This has fostered an industrial chain encompassing agriculture, food processing, and e-commerce, Lu Shichang, director of the Snail Noodle Industry Development Center in Liuzhou, told the Global Times.

Although smells stinky, Luosifen has become a favorite for many due to its sour and spicy flavors, as well as the naturally fermented sour bamboo shoots found in the region’s caves, which maintain a constant temperature and humidity throughout the year. 

On January 9, Liuzhou celebrated the 10th anniversary of the industrialization of its snail noodles. Preliminary forecasts indicated that in 2024, the total sales revenue of the entire snail noodle industry chain in Liuzhou could reach 75.96 billion yuan ($10.39 billion), according to a press release from the local government.

The rise of the snail noodle industry and its international reach vividly illustrate a distinctive path out of poverty.

In 2017, Leitang village in Liucheng county, Liuzhou, was still grappling with poverty.

Entrepreneur Yao Hanlin, a local District People’s Congress deputy, conducted thorough research in the area, and he contemplated a way to help local people escape poverty.

“Why not begin with the raw materials for Luosifen and leverage them to boost rural economic development, tackling the issue of industrial underdevelopment in impoverished areas right from the source?” Yao decided to sign a contract with an integrated cooperative that supports households to develop a 600-acre planting base for large-scale and standardized planting of green beans, the “soul” ingredient of snail noodles, and ensuring a guaranteed purchase to increase farmers’ income and alleviating their concerns about unsold produce.

Additionally, farmers received industry subsidies from the local government for cultivating green beans. A successful model of cooperation among cooperatives, enterprises, and farmers was then founded and expanded to wider regions.

Farmers selling green beans to the company on pre-packaged Luosifen saw their annual income increase by over 10,000 yuan per household. In just two years, most villagers in Leitang had successfully escaped poverty. Beyond the financial benefits, the villagers take pride in knowing that their sour green beans have traveled across oceans alongside the snail noodles. Many villagers also found employment right in their own communities, said Yao.

Yao still vividly remembers the moment President Xi visited and his inspiring words.

“Everyone could feel his high regard for the development of local specialty industries and rural revitalization efforts. His words deeply moved us and strengthened our resolve to use the snail noodle industry to help more people achieve prosperity,” Yao told the Global Times.

The “spillover effect” of the Luosifen industry has also brought significant benefits to the ethnic minority communities in the Miao and Dong villages of Guangxi, a region known for its rich cultural diversity.

“Both rice farming and snail raising are lucrative ventures, and with government subsidies, we feel more confident about our path to prosperity,” shared Wei Yaoke, a villager from a minority ethnic group who has successfully lifted himself out of poverty in 2019.

“In recent years, whenever people mention Liuzhou, they immediately think of snail rice noodles. Many have traveled to Liuzhou specifically for a bowl of noodles, which is a remarkable achievement for the city,” remarked Yao. “A simple bowl of noodles has not only revitalized a city, but also enriched the lives of its people.”

A bowl of Liuzhou snail noodles weaves together the threads of rural prosperity, Lu told the Global Times.

As President Xi has said that the revitalization of industries is the top priority of rural revitalization, years of exploration have proven that activating the internal motivation for poverty alleviation hinges on developing strong industries. Without industry, there is no stable economic foundation for true poverty alleviation. In China’s poverty alleviation practices, industrial development has become one of the most dynamic models, Lu emphasized.

Entrepreneurs bring fresh innovations

The booming Luosifen industry has drawn many young entrepreneurs back home, leveraging e-commerce benefits and new technologies to showcase their “hometown flavors” on the global stage.

Mo Qinji, a millennial born in Liuzhou, became a technician in a manufacturing company in South China’s Guangzhou after graduation. During his years away, a bowl of Luosifen became a nostalgic link to home, inspiring him to merge his expertise with local delicacies.

Five years later, he decided to quit the job and returned to hometown in November 2012 to start a business in manufacturing and selling Luosifen, seizing the opportunity in the new e-commerce landscape. The surge in online Luosifen sales prompted him to continuously improve production lines and supply chains. Mo’s factory operates a fully automated packaging line, researched and developed by his team over a year.

Mo stressed that the achievements of local poverty alleviation are the result of collective efforts and coordinated strength.

“In the past, farmers often grew crops based on high market prices, only to see prices drop once the crops were overly harvested, leading to increased poverty and reluctance to plant. However, products like Luosifen integrate various agricultural ingredients, providing a stable industry that prevents crops from going to waste,” Mo explained to the Global Times. “For instance, if green beans are harvested and the market price is high, say 2.5 yuan per kilogram, farmers can sell them to wholesale markets or buyers to secure better income. However, if market prices decline, they can sell their beans to Luosifen processing factories for pickling, or even pickle them independently to generate profits from initial processing. This serves as a sort of insurance mechanism for local farmers.”

Mo said that an increasing number of young people in the local area are gradually shifting from being beneficiaries of poverty alleviation in rural areas to becoming emerging forces in rural revitalization.

Mo reminisced about how, after returning to Liuzhou from work in Guangzhou, he would eagerly rush to the nearest stall, savoring every bite of his favorite dish and wishing he could take some home. Now, he has turned that dream into reality. The ambitions of merchants like Mo to elevate Liuzhou’s Luosifen from humble street carts to global acclaim align perfectly with China’s commitment to poverty alleviation and rural revitalization.

In Mo’s factory, hundreds of workers bustle about. The busy assembly line is leading them toward a better future – one that belongs to both the company and the whole industry, and perhaps serves as a model for the future of many more rural areas in China.

https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202502/1328399.shtml 

New Manulife and Deloitte Report: Over Two-Thirds of High-Net-Worth Individuals in Greater China Consider Insurance Essential for Legacy and Succession Planning

Manulife Hong Kong collaborates with Deloitte to offer insights into legacy planning solutions for high-net-worth individuals

HONG KONG, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Manulife Hong Kong and Deloitte have unveiled key findings from a new report[1] examining the financial planning preferences and considerations of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in the Greater China region. The report reveals that 70% of respondents have integrated insurance into their asset portfolios, with 30% allocating 11% or more of their assets to insurance products. This underscores the role insurance solutions play in the financial planning strategies of HNWIs.

The study, which focuses on HNWIs with net assets of at least HKD 7.8 million in the Greater China region, also offers fresh insights into how this segment approaches insurance as a wealth planning tool. It explores the unique challenges this segment faces and demonstrates how insurance solutions can effectively support HNWIs in their wealth preservation, accumulation, and distribution goals.

Over half of respondents aim to leverage insurance for legacy and succession planning

The report highlights that life insurance is the leading form of coverage, with close to 78% of responding HNWIs owning a life insurance policy, while medical insurance (76%) and savings insurance (60%) follow close behind. Notably, 57% of respondents express a desire to leverage insurance to facilitate a smoother transfer of wealth to future generations. In addition, when asked to rank the most important outcomes they hoped to achieve in asset inheritance, 64% of those who picked “prioritizing the distribution of their assets in their desired manner to prevent inheritance disputes” identified it as their main anticipated outcome. Among all respondents, 67% acknowledge that designating beneficiaries through insurance can help mitigate conflicts in the eventual distribution of their wealth.  

“This comprehensive report, drawing on Deloitte’s consulting expertise, offers valuable insights into the legacy planning preferences of HNWIs in Greater China,” said Albert Mak, Chief Agency Officer of Manulife Hong Kong and Macau. “In today’s evolving financial environment, HNWIs are turning to insurance as a key strategic means of achieving financial stability, effectively managing risks, and preserving their legacies. It’s important to note that legacy planning isn’t exclusive to those with significant assets; in fact, effective legacy planning can benefit anyone who wishes to pass on their wealth to future generations.”

“Insurance has evolved from a risk management product to a legacy planning tool highly preferred by our HNWI clients,” said Anthony Lau, Deloitte Private Hong Kong Leader. “It mimics some key features of will, family trust, and limited power of attorney, making insurance one of the most accessible legacy planning components. Moreover, in certain jurisdictions, tax authorities offer preferential tax treatment such as tax exemption, deferral and deductions for insurance products, as outlined in their tax law. Families are becoming more open-minded about starting legacy planning at a younger age, having recognized the benefits of facilitating the smooth transition of wealth and maintaining harmonious family relationships.”

A holistic approach to meeting the needs of HNWIs

Reflecting the insights revealed in the report, Manulife has established a holistic approach to ensure it is well-positioned to meet the financial planning needs of HNWIs. Given their unique circumstances and goals, Manulife has established a dedicated Private Client Wealth Planning team focused on helping its high-net-worth clients preserve, accumulate, and transfer their wealth to next generations while managing unforeseen risks. In addition, based on client’s needs, Manulife can introduce clients to a network of premier professional service providers, each offering specialized expertise for tailored insights and guidance.

Guided by its overarching focus on customer needs, Manulife’s diverse range of products, including Genesis, Whole-In-One-Prime 3, and Future Assure[2], offer features and administrative arrangements that cater to various customer segments, including HNWIs. This includes the market-first[3] Legacy Choice[4] service within designated insurance products, which enables customers to transfer their policy, either on a designated date or when the successive policy owner reaches a designated age, in the event of the policyowner’s passing.

“The combination of legacy planning expertise, leading specialist advice and innovative features is essential to delivering bespoke and holistic solutions that effectively address the individual needs of HNWIs, empowering them to navigate complex planning challenges with confidence,” Mr. Mak added.

Other notable findings highlighted include:

  • Concerns related to legacy succession:

Among the respondents who selected the following as one of their top five concerns, the percentages below represent those who ranked it as their primary worry:

    • Disputes among heirs: 52% fear that wealth distribution may trigger family conflicts.
    • Heirs’ ability to manage wealth: 43% are concerned about potential issues such as poor financial planning, lack of investment knowledge, excessive spending, and immature decision-making.
    • Risk of wealth loss or depreciation: 43% worry about the potential loss or depreciation of wealth during the succession process.
  • Regarding retirement priorities:
    • 86% emphasize the importance of quality of life and the associated expenses.
    • 69% consider their living environment important, including housing options and potential overseas relocation.
    • 65% prioritize access to high-end medical protection.

Manulife and Deloitte have jointly published a new report on the financial planning preferences and considerations of high-net-worth individuals in the Greater China region. Pictured: Albert Mak, Chief Agency Officer of Manulife Hong Kong and Macau (left), and Anthony Lau, Deloitte Private Hong Kong Leader (right).
Manulife and Deloitte have jointly published a new report on the financial planning preferences and considerations of high-net-worth individuals in the Greater China region. Pictured: Albert Mak, Chief Agency Officer of Manulife Hong Kong and Macau (left), and Anthony Lau, Deloitte Private Hong Kong Leader (right).

About the Study

The report jointly published by Manulife and Deloitte was developed based on proprietary research and interviews with relevant stakeholders including HNWIs, as well as an analysis of qualitative and quantitative data. Customer research was conducted in Greater China. Details of the report, initially available in Chinese and later in English, can be downloaded here

About Manulife Hong Kong

Manulife Hong Kong has been a trusted name for more than 125 years. Since our operations started in Asia in 1897, we have grown to become one of the top-tier providers of financial services, offering a diverse range of protection and wealth products and services to about 2.6 million customers in Hong Kong and Macau. We are committed to helping make decisions easier and lives better for our customers.

Manulife Hong Kong, through Manulife International Holdings Limited, owns Manulife (International) Limited, Manulife Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited, and Manulife Provident Funds Trust Company Limited. These entities are all subsidiaries of Manulife Financial Corporation.

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we provide financial advice and insurance, operating as Manulife across Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2023, we had more than 38,000 employees, over 98,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 35 million customers. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ in Hong Kong.

Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.

About Deloitte

Deloitte China provides integrated professional services, with our long-term commitment to be a leading contributor to China’s reform, opening-up and economic development. We are a globally connected firm with deep roots locally, owned by our partners in China. With over 20,000 professionals across 31 Chinese cities, we provide our clients with a one-stop shop offering world-leading audit, tax and consulting services.

We serve with integrity, uphold quality and strive to innovate. With our professional excellence, insight across industries, and intelligent technology solutions, we help clients and partners from many sectors seize opportunities, tackle challenges and attain world-class, high-quality development goals.

The Deloitte brand originated in 1845, and its name in Chinese denotes integrity, diligence and excellence. Deloitte’s global professional network of member firms now spans more than 150 countries and territories. Through our mission to make an impact that matters, we help reinforce public trust in capital markets, enable clients to transform and thrive, empower talents to be future-ready, and lead the way toward a stronger economy, a more equitable society and a sustainable world.

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte organization”). DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms and related entities are legally separate and independent entities, which cannot obligate or bind each other in respect of third parties. DTTL and each DTTL member firm and related entity is liable only for its own acts and omissions, and not those of each other. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more.

Deloitte Asia Pacific Limited is a company limited by guarantee and a member firm of DTTL. Members of Deloitte Asia Pacific Limited and their related entities, each of which is a separate and independent legal entity, provide services from more than 100 cities across the region, including Auckland, Bangkok, Beijing, Bengaluru, Hanoi, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Melbourne, Mumbai, New Delhi, Osaka, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Taipei and Tokyo.

Deloitte Private is the brand under which member firms and their related entities in the Deloitte organization provide services to privately owned entities and high-net-worth individuals.

This communication contains general information only, and none of DTTL, its global network of member firms or their related entities is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser.

No representations, warranties or undertakings (express or implied) are given as to the accuracy or completeness of the information in this communication, and none of DTTL, its member firms, related entities, employees or agents shall be liable or responsible for any loss or damage whatsoever arising directly or indirectly in connection with any person relying on this communication.

© 2025. For more information, please contact Deloitte China.

[1] Manulife and its insurance advisors do not provide any tax or legal advice. Any information provided in the report is for reference only and does not constitute professional advice. If needed, please consult relevant tax, legal advisor(s), or other related professionals.

[2] The content of this material does not contain the full terms of the policy(ies), and the full terms can be found in the corresponding policy document(s). Please refer to the product brochure/product guide to understand more about the product features and risks.

[3] The statement about first-in-market features is based on comparisons with other publicly available savings insurance plans and life insurance plans issued by Hong Kong’s major life insurance companies for individual customers as of April 2024.

[4] Applicable to policies issued in Hong Kong only. This is an administrative arrangement and is not part of the product features. Such application is subject to our prevailing administrative rules which shall be determined and modified by us from time to time without prior notice. Please note that the service may not be available with the designated new plan after the currency switch option is exercised.

 

Brave the Cold: JETOUR T2 Master the Arctic Circle


CHONGQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – At 70 degrees north latitude in the Arctic Circle, where temperatures plunge to -30°C, the harsh environment provides the ultimate test for vehicle performance. The challenging terrain further intensifies the rigorous test of vehicle features. The Jetour T2 has set a new benchmark for light off-road SUVs with its advanced engineering.

The extreme cold of the Arctic poses a formidable challenge to auto systems, especially when temperatures drop to -30°C. Ensuring steady operation under such conditions is a critical measure of reliability. The JETOUR T2 excelled in these harsh environments, with its showcasing engine reliable operation and rapid startups unaffected by the frigid climate. Key systems, including the power system, electrical system, and thermal circulation system, responded swiftly and operated smoothly, ensuring a seamless driving experience. In extreme cold, the performance of the air conditioning system is particularly crucial. The T2’s air conditioning system effectively heated the cabin, quickly raising the interior temperature to a comfortable level despite the severe conditions, maintaining a warm and cozy environment. Confronting the Arctic’s unforgiving cold, the JETOUR T2 showcased remarkable adaptability.

In the elk test, the icy surface, riddled with potholes and bumps caused by salt and bubbles, created dramatic changes in friction coefficients, making it easy for vehicles to deviate from their intended trajectory. Despite these challenges, the JETOUR T2 maintained exceptional handling performance and stability, thanks to its XWD fully automatic intelligent four-wheel drive system. During driving, if any wheel slips, the system swiftly adjusts, accurately redistributing power to the wheels with traction, ensuring the vehicle continues to move steadily forward. In scenarios where obstacles suddenly appear or the driver executes an emergency maneuver, the 4WD system and differential lock respond instantaneously, optimizing power output and torque distribution. This allows the T2 to maintain stability during high-speed evasive actions, avoiding skidding or losing control. As a result, the T2 achieved outstanding performance even in extreme test conditions, demonstrating remarkable driving stability and control.

In the extreme conditions of the Arctic Circle—characterized by low temperatures, high humidity, and rugged terrain—the JETOUR T2 overcame numerous challenges with its strong power system and XWD technology. It demonstrated reliable driving stability and outstanding off-road capability, excelling in even the harshest environments. This remarkable performance not only highlights the T2’s advanced engineering but also reinforces JETOUR’s confidence and technological strength in its journey toward globalization.

Hashtag: #JETOUR

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

DeriW: A Zero-Gas Trading Platform to Debut With Testnet at Consensus Hong Kong 2025

HONG KONG, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The world’s first zero-gas-fee decentralized exchange, DeriW, will unveil its innovative perpetual exchange platform at Consensus HK 2025. It is backed by the CoinW team which has eight years of experience in the blockchain industry. The DeriW team will be present from February 18 to 20 at CoinW’s Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) booth.

Event participants are invited to visit and explore DeriW’s revolutionary trading platform as well as connect with the team.

This is a key opportunity for traders and affiliates to learn, engage, and join the DeriW ecosystem.

A New Era of Decentralized Trading

DeriW is engineered on a sophisticated Rollup architecture.

This allows it to inherit Ethereum’s robust security features while enhancing transparency by integrating Layer 3 applications with Layer 2 infrastructure.

The platform can achieve fast and efficient high-speed trading speeds of up to 80,000 transactions per second.

Building on its technological prowess, DeriW has introduced the Pendulum AMM model to its liquidity pools.

It promises Liquidity Partners zero slippage and attractive annual percentage yield (APY) rates. 

These innovations position DeriW as a cost-efficient, high-performance, and transparent solution in the decentralized trading space.

Official Launch at the ‘Connecting Legends’ After-Party

The official DeriW product launch will take place during CoinW’s ‘Connecting Legends’ After-Party on February 19 at Cloud 39 – The Henderson.

It starts at 7 PM, with the launch presentation at 7:40 PM which will feature insights from blockchain industry leaders and key affiliates.

Attendees can experience DeriW’s advanced trading features, explore ecosystem opportunities, and provide direct feedback with the team.

DeriW Official Launch at CoinW’s 'Connecting Legends' After-Party
DeriW Official Launch at CoinW’s ‘Connecting Legends’ After-Party

Testnet

Parallel to the product launch, DeriW is set to announce the commencement of its Testnet phase.

Users can explore the platform’s functionalities through a series of Trading and Community events, which is perfectly timed with CoinW’s exclusive Airdrop Event.

Participants in the Testnet will have the first-hand opportunity to claim $DER rewards, which will be distributed upon the Mainnet launch.

Roadmap

DeriW’s development is strategically planned, as outlined in the roadmap below.

  • 2024 Q3: Testnet launched, core function testing opened, and early user incentive program launched
  • 2024 Q4: Core community building, global trading competitions and meme creation activities, collecting user feedback to optimize product experience
  • 2025 Q1: A major upgrade of the testnet, comprehensively improving the performance of the public chain, and iterating the platform’s trading and LP systems
  • 2025 Q2: The mainnet is officially released, TGE tokens are generated, and the ecological construction plan is launched
  • 2025 Q3: Open professional-grade API interface to support quantitative trading and support the launch of custom trading pairs
  • 2025 Q4: Build a global trader community for a smarter and more efficient user experience

In the first quarter of the year, DeriW will introduce customizable protocols to support minor trading currency pairs, enhancing its versatility.

Looking ahead to the second quarter, DeriW aims to foster a global trading community and expand its offerings with new derivative products, ensuring a more dynamic and engaging trading experience.

Be part of DeriW’s groundbreaking journey at Consensus Hong Kong 2025. Experience the next-generation zero-gas decentralized trading platform and secure early access to its Testnet.

See you there!

Website: https://www.coinw.com/

Twitter Official:https://twitter.com/CoinWOfficial

Telegram: https://t.me/coinwoff

YouTube Official: https://www.youtube.com/@CoinWOfficial

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coinwofficial/

Baltics leading pharmaceutical company Grindeks expands to new export markets worldwide

RIGA, Latvia, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The leading pharmaceutical company in the Baltics, Grindeks, continues to strengthen its global presence by entering new export markets. This year, for the first time, Grindeks products will be delivered to Panama. The company’s export markets already include countries such as Chile, Mexico, Australia, Singapore, the Philippines, and most of Europe. Active pharmaceutical ingredients are also exported to Japan, South Korea, and the USA.

Manufacturing of final dosage forms
Manufacturing of final dosage forms

Grindeks is a prequalified supplier for the World Health Organization, supplying its manufactured injections to international organizations such as UNFPA and UNICEF. These organizations distribute the products to African countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Liberia, Sudan, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, and others.

Kirovs Lipmans, Chairman of the Council of Grindeks, highlights: “Expanding into new export markets is a testament to our long-term vision and dedication to global healthcare. By continuously investing in innovation, quality, and regulatory excellence, we ensure that Grindeks remains a trusted name worldwide. Our presence in diverse markets reflects our commitment to providing effective and accessible medicines to those who need them most.”

Ph.D. Juris Hmeļņickis, CEO of Grindeks, emphasizes: “Export for us means more than just business — it is an opportunity to make a significant contribution to global health. Each of our export markets symbolizes not just expansion but also our commitment to improving health and quality of life worldwide. We are proud to deliver our products across regions including Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa, where the need for high-quality and affordable medicines is critically important. The path to global markets is not easy—it requires adapting to diverse regulations, market requirements, and cultural differences. These challenges motivate us to become even stronger, more efficient, and innovative, ensuring that Grindeks quality and reliability are accessible wherever they are needed.”

Reasons for Export Success

Medicines are essential across the globe, particularly in regions with limited healthcare access where the demand for high-quality, internationally produced pharmaceuticals is substantial.

Producing and certifying products to meet international standards ensures safety and efficacy, enabling successful entry into global markets.

A long shelf life (2–5 years) and developed logistics chains allow deliveries to even the most remote regions. Thanks to our sustainable logistics, we can provide high-quality medicines to distant locations such as Tanzania and Zimbabwe. However, not all products are financially viable for export, as high transportation costs limit the delivery of cheaper and heavier goods.

Challenges in Global Markets

Export experience shows that countries with strict regulatory requirements, such as China, Japan, the Philippines, Brazil, Malaysia, Chile, and others, demand adaptation to specific norms. These requirements often differ significantly from European standards, requiring additional time and resources for compliance. High levels of protectionism are also commonly encountered in these markets. Despite these challenges, Grindeks has demonstrated its adaptability and resilience by successfully meeting the standards of these demanding markets.

Cultural differences present challenges, such as overcoming language barriers, time zone differences, and varied business practices, which are crucial for effective collaboration and understanding local market dynamics.

As Grindeks continues to navigate global markets, the company is committed to implementing even more innovative solutions to remain a global leader in improving health.

Grindeks Global Competitiveness

The company’s global competitiveness continues to grow despite intense competition in the pharmaceutical market. According to the IQVIA Global Market analysis, one of the world’s leading sources of healthcare and pharmaceutical market data, Grindeks secured a solid 299th position among 5,768 companies in Europe in 2023, demonstrating its leading role in the regional pharmaceutical market. This achievement highlights Grindeks strategic approach and its ability to adapt and succeed in dynamic market conditions.

With a vision to rank among the top 100 pharmaceutical companies globally, Grindeks continues to drive innovation, expand its reach, and strengthen its competitive edge in both regional and international markets.

About the Grindeks Group

Grindeks is an international pharmaceutical group that provides a full product lifecycle – research, development, pharmacovigilance, manufacturing, and sales of original products, generic drugs, and active pharmaceutical ingredients. The group exports its products to over 100 countries worldwide. Grindeks main therapeutic groups and directions are cardiology, central nervous system, oncology, diabetes, dermatology, cardiology, and active pharmaceutical ingredients. The subsidiary Kalceks specializes in medications for the hospital segment and ophthalmology. All products are manufactured according to high global safety and quality standards. The group employs more than 1,380 industry professionals.

NX Taiwan Becomes First Japanese Company to Receive QMS Certification for Medical Devices at Its NEXT3 Warehouse in Taoyuan City

TOKYO, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nippon Express (Taiwan) Co., Ltd. (hereafter “NX Taiwan”), a group company of NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC., obtained certification on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 from the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) for the quality management system (QMS) established at its NEXT3 warehouse in the northern Taiwanese city of Taoyuan to ensure the quality and safety of medical devices (hereafter “medical device QMS certification”), the first such certification acquired by a Japanese company.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202502073945-O2-EM45jBgp 

Exterior view of warehouse:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M103866/202502073945/_prw_PI1fl_00HLGJ69.jpg 

Taiwan has been tightening quality control of medical devices by, for example, requiring certification for packaging and affixing Chinese labels to medical devices imported into Taiwan from May 1, 2021. The NEXT3 warehouse acquired good distribution practice (GDP) and good manufacturing practice (GMP) certification for pharmaceuticals in April 2022 and GMP certification for cosmetics in February 2024. With the newly acquired medical device QMS certification, the warehouse is now capable of storing and processing medical devices in compliance with quality control standards, both services expected to see rising demand in future.

Equipped with air-conditioned storage and processing work areas, the warehouse enjoys a very suitable location for international logistics, being situated 15 km from Taoyuan International Airport, 32 km from Taipei Port, 53 km from Keelung Port, and close to the Nangang Interchange on the north-south Highway 1 traversing Taiwan. This latest certification will enable the facility to provide high-quality services to more customers.

The NX Group will be further expanding its logistics functions within Taiwan as well as its international transport services utilizing the Group’s global network to help customers enhance their business activities and thereby realize its own long-term vision of becoming a logistics company with a strong presence in the global market.

Certification details
Name of certified organization: Nippon Express (Taiwan) Co., Ltd.
Certification date: Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Facility: Nippon Express (Taiwan) Co., Ltd., NEXT3 warehouse
Certification: Medical device QMS certification
Certification body: Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA)
Certified services: Packaging and labeling of medical devices

About the NX Group: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202502073945-O1-3Ht7e88V.pdf

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Minish Holds First Seminar in Japan with Great Success – Over 100 Dentists in Attendance

“Impressed by Extensive Full-Mouth Rehabilitation Cases” , “Anti-Aging Effects Highly Praised”

TOKYO, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On the 17th, Minish Technology successfully concluded its first-ever clinical case seminar and corporate presentation in Japan. The event, held the previous day at Shiodome Season Terrace in Minato City, Tokyo, drew over 100 dentists from across the country, demonstrating significant interest in Minish’s innovative approach to dental restoration.

The first Minish seminar in Japan was a success with more than 100 dentists attending.
The first Minish seminar in Japan was a success with more than 100 dentists attending.

The seminar covered origins and development of Minish, its clinical applications, and case studies from Minish Members Clinics (MMC). It also provided insights into Minish Technology’s vision and global expansion strategy.

Attendees were particularly captivated by Minish’s innovative approach. The ability to correct misaligned teeth and address irregularities in color, size, shape, and proportion—within a single day—was highly regarded. In addition, the full-mouth restoration capability, extending beyond anterior teeth to molars, received praise. The proven stability of Minish, backed by over 160,000 cases over the past 17 years, further solidified confidence among participants.

Dr. Mamina Aoya, director of Ojima Clinic in Gunma Prefecture, remarked, “I was amazed that such extensive treatments, including full-mouth rehabilitation, are possible. The anti-aging effects of Minish will certainly resonate in Japan, where the aging population is significant.”

Dr. Yoshishige Taniguchi, director of Taniguchi Dental Clinic in Saitama Prefecture and a board member of Japanese Academy of Anti-Aging Dentistry, added, “I am eager to introduce Minish to our organization as soon as possible.”

Dr. Shuji Imatomi, director of Imatomi Dental Clinic in Hokkaido, shared his motivation for attending: “Given the high proportion of non-insurance treatments in Japan, I wanted to explore effective treatment options. I plan to adopt Minish at my clinic soon.”

The enthusiasm from this seminar is set to carry over to the upcoming Minish Academy in April, which will be held in South Korea for Japanese dentists. Notably, 45% of the Japanese dentists who completed the Minish Academy program in November last year have since joined MMC. Currently, MMCs offering Minish treatments in Japan are located in Tokyo’s Shinjuku, Gunma Prefecture, Chiba Prefecture, and five other regions.

Choi RockSun, PR manager at MINISH Technology Inc. stated, “This seminar reaffirmed the recognition that Minish is not merely a complement to orthodontic or aesthetic treatments, but rather a comprehensive solution for dental restoration. Given the strong response, we expect to expand the number of MMCs in Japan to 50 locations within the year.”

Hanon Systems Announces Full Year 2024 Financial Results

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hanon Systems, a leading global automotive thermal management supplier and subsidiary of Hankook & Company Group, last week reported its full year 2024 financial results.

For the fourth quarter of 2024, Hanon Systems reported consolidated revenue of KRW 2.5498 trillion, marking a 3.8% increase year-over-year and a 2% increase from the previous quarter. However, the fourth quarter operating income showed a loss of KRW 98.8 billion due to one-time factors and global restructuring costs. The total net loss for the year 2024, including the fourth quarter operating loss, decreased production volumes due to a slowdown in EV sales, interest expenses, and impairment losses on intangible assets, amounted to KRW 334.4 billion.

The company expects that there will be no difficulty achieving sales exceeding KRW 10 trillion in 2025, and the operating margin is expected to improve gradually.

In 2025, the company will continue improving profitability and cash flow, strengthening accountability in management through the rollout of a new regional organization structure, and enhancing management efficiency through successful integration. The company has established specific implementation plans to achieve these goals. In January, Hanon Systems realigned its organization to regional business groups to drive greater efficiency and strengthen responses to customers’ needs.

Vice Chairman and CEO Soo Il Lee stated: “In the short term, our priority is to enhance financial structures through cost reduction and operational efficiency. In the long term, by strengthening accountability in management, we will establish a proactive organizational culture.” He added, “Through these measures, we will lay a foundation for sustainable growth and make company-wide efforts towards successful integration.”

Hanon Systems expects to see tangible results in the second half of the year and, through synergies with the Hankook & Company Group, aims to achieve a stable financial structure within two to three years, continuously enhancing competitiveness by responding agilely to strategic changes in customers’ demands.

About Hanon Systems

Hanon Systems, founded in 1986, is a global leader in thermal energy management solutions. In January 2025, it became a subsidiary of Hankook & Company Group. Its offering includes a wide range of solutions in the areas of heating, ventilation and air conditioning, powertrain cooling, compressor, fluid transport, and electronics and fluid pressure. The company currently operates 50 manufacturing sites and three regional innovation centers and employs more than 20,000 people across 21 countries. To learn more, visit hanonsystems.com.

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