On 18 February, authorities in Vientiane Province arrested two online Kratom sellers along with five of their customers for distributing and consuming the drug through social media platforms.
Kratom TikTokers Arrested in Vientiane Drug Crackdown

Nuvoton Releases Plan to Launch Mass Production of New Industrial BM-ICs
KYOTO, Japan, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nuvoton Technology Corporation Japan (NTCJ) has developed new industrial 17-cell BM-ICs “KA49701A” and “KA49702A” for 48V batteries. Mass production will start from April 2025. These products enhance the safety of battery systems and ensure simple safe system construction.
Image: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108245/202502124110/_prw_PI1fl_tJjts0mQ.png
1. The battery monitoring ICs play a role in ensuring the system operates safely during anomalies such as overcharging or over-discharging of the battery. However, if the main circuits performing cell voltage measurements such as the AD converter or multiplexer of the BM-IC fail, it needs to ensure system safety with external protection circuits, but this increases board area and system cost. The major internal circuits of this product are equipped with diagnostic and fail-safe functions. This diagnostic function can detect main circuit failures and control the cut-off switch, achieving both enhanced BMS safety and reduced system cost.
Figure (English): https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108245/202502124110/_prw_PI2fl_4z4nlNQ9.png
Figure (Simplified Chinese): https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108245/202502124110/_prw_PI3fl_EmXC0o1F.png
Figure (Traditional Chinese): https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108245/202502124110/_prw_PI4fl_ins2617Q.png
2. By reducing noise levels on the 16-bit AD converter and incorporating a digital filter, NTCJ has achieved industry-leading voltage measurement accuracy of +/-2.9mV (*1). By improving voltage measurement accuracy, maximum battery capacity can be used. Furthermore, precise voltage measurement has been achieved over a wide temperature range. It is also suitable for applications requiring high voltage measurement accuracy in cold and hot environments, such as stationary battery systems compliant with the relevant Chinese national standard (*2).
(*1) According to a survey by Nuvoton in the industrial BM-IC field as of February 2025.
(*2) GB/T34131-2023, within the system +/-5mV @-20C to 65C.
3. By shortening the cell voltage measurement time, which has high power consumption, operating current has been achieved at 260 microampere, less than 1/10th of NTCJ’s previous standards. This enables long battery drive times. Also, optimization of the circuit design has reduced shutdown current consumption to 0.1 microampere or less. Using NTCJ’s IC, self-discharge can be minimized, preventing deterioration due to over-discharge when LIBs are transported over long distances and stored long-term.
For more details about the product, please visit: https://www.nuvoton.com/products/battery-management/battery-monitoring-ics/non-stackable/
About Nuvoton Technology Corporation Japan: https://www.nuvoton.co.jp/en/
Kerry Launches 2025 Supplement Taste Charts: Pioneering the Future of Flavour in Wellness
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SINGAPORE , Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kerry Group, a global leader in taste and nutrition solutions, has launched its 2025 Supplement Taste Charts, a comprehensive guide to evolving flavour trends and innovations in the wellness industry. These charts serve as an essential tool for supplement and nutraceutical manufacturers, helping them anticipate market shifts and create health and flavour-forward products.
From gummies to powders to chewables, Kerry’s 2025 Supplement Taste Charts empower brands to anticipate market shifts and deliver health benefits with flavours consumers will love
Taste is a critical factor in supplement innovation. From gummies, liquid shots, effervescent powders to chewables, consumers expect their wellness products to offer enjoyable and recognisable flavours while supporting their health goals.
In Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, the dietary supplements market size grew to USD75 billion in 2024, up from USD61 billion in 20201, due to rising consumer awareness of the importance of health, a growing ageing population, and higher disposable income.
“Consumers today want personalised solutions for wellbeing and vitality, and flavour is a significant factor in their supplement choices. Whether it’s masking undesirable tastes, creating unique flavour combinations, or enhancing the overall sensory experience, flavour has become key in shaping the perceived value of supplements,” said Olivier De Salmiech, Vice President, Nutritional Supplements, Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa.
Flavour Trends Reshaping the Supplement Industry
Global and regional influences continue to reshape the landscape of supplement flavours:
- Tropical and vibrant fruit notes like lychee, mangosteen, and pi pa in Southeast Asia are rapidly expanding, matching consumer demand for hydration and immune support.
- Around the world, botanical and herbal flavours inspired by traditional wellness practices continue to grow in popularity, with ginger, hawthorn, and lime being particularly notable in Asia.
- Orange remains a mainstream flavour across the world – a staple in immunity-boosting formulations and functional beverages.
- Cocoa, lavender, and rose are emerging in Australia and New Zealand, catering to consumers who want both functionality and indulgence.
- In South Korea and Japan, consumers are seeking Asian flavours such as acai, black sesame, and chestnut in their supplement choices.
- Turmeric, thyme for their perceived health benefits, and fun flavours such as tutti frutti, coconut, caramel & cream are growing across the Middle East.
The industry is increasingly moving away from traditional tablets and capsules, with new flavour-forward formats like gummies, stick packs, chewables, meltables, popsicles, and lollipops emerging as popular choices. These non-pill formats are growing rapidly globally and now account for 61.8% of market sales, with gummies leading at 23.4% of total sales, followed by powders at 15.7% and capsules at 14.5%2. This growth is attributed to consumers’ demand for more enjoyable, convenient ways to take supplements, driven by factors like convenience, bioavailability, and sustainability.
“Consumer demand for exceptional taste is reshaping the supplements industry,” said Olivier De Salmiech. “With the 2025 Supplement Taste Charts, Kerry empowers brands to stay ahead of these market shifts. By blending science, sustainability and authentic flavour with region specific solutions, Kerry is shaping the future of supplements, delivering health benefits with flavours consumers will love.”
KuCoin EU Files MiCAR Application in Austria to Ensure Compliant EEA Operations
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Key Takeaways:
- KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH (“KuCoin EU“) is applying for a Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (“MiCAR“) license in Austria to operate as a fully compliant crypto-asset service provider in the EU/EEA.
- After receiving the license, KuCoin EU will be leveraging KuCoin’s cutting-edge technology and fostering the well-respected KuCoin brand to offer secure and innovative crypto products and services to KuCoin EU’s customers in EU/EEA.
- Vienna emerges as a strategic European crypto hub with its progressive regulatory framework and access to exceptional talent.
- Crypto industry leaders Oliver Stauber (CEO) and Christian Niedermüller (COO) will ensure operational excellence and full compliance with European Regulatory Standards as Managing Directors of KuCoin EU.
VIENNA, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — KuCoin, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, has announced that KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH is in the midst of filing an application for a MiCAR license in Austria. This application underscores KuCoin’s commitment to meeting the highest standards of regulatory compliance while solidifying its presence in the EU/EEA region.
The MiCAR license will enable KuCoin EU to serve its customers across all 30 EU and EEA member countries, ensuring consistent access to crypto products and services under a robust regulatory framework. This initiative aligns with KuCoin’s vision of fostering transparency, trust, and accountability in administering best-in-class digital asset services, offering users a secure and compliant trading platform.
KuCoin EU will set up its headquarters in Vienna, Austria, marking the city a strategic hub for all European activities and is actively hiring talents for its operations. The decision to choose Austria was primarily driven by the timely implementation of the MiCAR accompanying laws, stable and foreseeable regulatory environment as well as the huge talent pool. KuCoin EU acknowledges Austria’s efforts, e.g. driven by the City of Vienna, in creating a transparent, efficient, and best-in-class framework for crypto businesses to operate while safeguarding investors interests and fostering innovation in the financial sector.
Commenting on the establishment of the EU hub, KuCoin’s CEO BC Wong said “As a globally leading crypto exchange, we place compliance and user experience at the forefront of our mission. Today, I am proud to announce the establishment of our new EU hub in Vienna and that KuCoin EU intends to file for a MiCAR application in Austria. This marks a significant milestone in our steadfast commitment to executing a global, compliant strategy. Upon receiving a MiCAR license, we will enter the EEA market, which we deem strategically important. By advancing our compliance efforts, we are poised to better serve local users with more convenient, secure, and seamlessly localized products and experiences. We remain dedicated to fostering a transparent, responsible, and sustainable global digital asset ecosystem.”
Oliver Stauber, former General Counsel and Managing Director at Bitpanda, and Christian Niedermueller, former CEO of another European digital asset exchange, both veterans of the European crypto industry and seasoned financial executives with legal background, have been appointed as the Managing Directors of KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH. Stauber and Niedermueller bring extensive expertise in financial market regulation and crypto exchange management, strengthening KuCoin’s leading position as it navigates the complexities of Europe’s evolving crypto regulations while ensuring a successful and regulatory compliant business operation in the EU and EEA.
“I am absolutely thrilled to embark on this journey as the CEO of KuCoin EU, where we are set to revolutionize the crypto landscape across the EU and EEA with innovative products and services. At KuCoin EU, our mission is clear: to create Europe’s premier, regulatory-compliant crypto asset service provider. We are excited to announce that we will apply for a MiCAR license in Austria. Upon receiving the MiCAR license we are committed to delivering secure, compliant, and cutting-edge crypto solutions that will redefine trust and innovation in the EU’s fintech arena. Get ready for a new era in crypto!”
– Oliver Stauber, CEO of KuCoin EU
“After having scaled up another European exchange and having my toes in the digital asset industry now for more than 9 years, I am very happy to help bringing KuCoin to the next level in Europe. We aim to build a fantastic local team, have a sophisticated localized operational & product setup and also strengthen brand awareness massively in the years to come. Being a KuCoin customer myself since the very beginning in 2017, I couldn’t be prouder to support KuCoin now at this stage.”
– Christian Niedermueller, COO of KuCoin EU
Once KuCoin EU has been granted its MiCAR license, KuCoin EU will be well-positioned to provide services for European users, offering access to a wide range of digital assets while ensuring compliance with EU regulations. The company’s long-term vision includes contributing to the broader adoption of blockchain technology and strengthening the EU’s position as a leader in the global crypto ecosystem.
As KuCoin takes this step forward, the exchange remains focused on fostering innovation and trust in the digital asset space while aligning its operations with regulatory frameworks worldwide.
About KuCoin EU
KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH, based in Vienna, Austria, is committed to establishing a fully compliant digital asset brokerage under the MiCAR framework. By leveraging KuCoin’s advanced technology and nurturing the respected KuCoin brand, KuCoin EU aims to deliver secure and innovative crypto products and services to its customers within the European Economic Area (EEA).
KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH currently does not offer any services in the EU/EEA and will only commence operation upon receiving appropriate licensing.
About KuCoin
Founded in 2017, KuCoin is one of the pioneering and most globally recognized technology platforms supporting digital economies, built on a robust foundation of cutting-edge blockchain infrastructure, liquidity solutions, and an exceptional user experience. With a connected user base exceeding 39 million worldwide, KuCoin offers comprehensive digital asset solutions across wallets, trading, wealth management, payments, research, ventures, and AI-powered bots.
KuCoin has garnered accolades such as “Best Crypto Apps & Exchanges” by Forbes and has been recognized among the “Top 50 Global Unicorns” by Hurun in 2024. This recognition reflects its commitment to user-centric principles and core values, which include integrity, accountability, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
KuCoin is not licensed in the EU/EEA and does not actively offer any services in the EU/EEA.
Harbour BioMed and Insilico Medicine Achieve Strategic Collaboration to Advance AI-Driven Antibody Discovery and Development
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CAMBRIDGE, Mass., ROTTERDAM, Netherlands and SHANGHAI, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Harbour BioMed (HKEX: 02142, the “Company”), a global biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery, development and commercialization of novel antibody therapeutics focusing on immunology and oncology, and Insilico Medicine (“Insilico”), a clinical stage generative artificial intelligence (AI)-driven biotechnology company, today announced a strategic collaboration to accelerate the discovery and development of innovative therapeutic antibodies, leveraging their respective technological strengths in antibody discovery and artificial intelligence.
Under the collaboration agreement, the parties will combine Harbour BioMed’s industry-leading technology platform, proprietary dataset and extensive expertise in antibody development with Insilico’s advanced capabilities in designing integrated AI-driven drug discovery and development platforms to jointly develop the next-generation AI-powered antibody application. Additionally, the two companies will collaborate on early-stage drug discovery programs targeting novel, specific antibodies, leveraging Insilico’s AI expertise and Harbour BioMed’s wet lab capabilities. These efforts aim to deliver innovative therapeutic solutions for the unmet medical needs of immunology, oncology, and neuroscience.
Harbour BioMed has built a strong foundation in antibody discovery and development, underpinned by its advanced technology platform, proprietary dataset, and deep expertise. The Company’s proprietary Harbour Mice® platform enables the generation of fully human monoclonal antibodies in both conventional (H2L2) and heavy chain-only (HCAb) formats, eliminating the need for additional engineering or humanization. The HCAb technology, in particular, produces unique, fully human heavy chain-only antibodies that are approximately half the size of conventional IgGs, offering significant advantages for next-generation antibody therapies. With a clinically validated and globally recognized platform, Harbour BioMed has applied its technology in more than 250 drug discovery programs across various therapeutic areas, establishing itself as a leader in the field of biotherapeutics.
Insilico has previously showcased the capability of its proprietary AI platform to significantly reduce cost and improve efficiency in the early stages of small molecule drug discovery and development. Since 2021, the company has established a wholly-owned pipeline of 30 assets powered by its Pharma.AI platform, 10 of which have received IND clearance, setting a benchmark for AI-driven drug discovery and development. In July 2024, Insilico introduced Generative Biologics, an AI-powered tool for de novo protein engineering, designed to accelerate the development of next-generation biologics. Moving forward, the company plans to leverage real-world case studies to further refine and advance the application through ongoing enhancements and iterative improvements.
“We are excited to collaborate with Insilico, a pioneer and leading advocate in AI-driven drug discovery and development, to integrate AI technologies with our industry-leading technology platform and proven expertise in antibody discovery and development,” said Jingsong Wang, MD, PhD, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Harbour BioMed. “By combining our validated Harbour Mice® platform with advanced generative AI approaches, we aim to further streamline antibody discovery, enhance candidate selection, and ultimately bring innovative therapies to patients more efficiently.”
“By combining advanced machine learning models with biological expertise, AI platforms are transforming antibody discovery and engineering – enabling the prediction of antibody structures, identification of binding sites, and design of candidates with enhanced specificity, efficacy, and safety,” said Feng Ren, PhD, Co-CEO and Chief Scientific Officer of Insilico Medicine. “High-quality dataset and wet-lab validation are critical components in this process, and we are thrilled to collaborate with Harbour BioMed who excel in these areas. Together, we aim to build the next generation AI-driven antibody platforms and deliver breakthrough antibody therapies to address critical healthcare needs.”
About Harbour BioMed
Harbour BioMed (HKEX: 02142) is a global biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel antibody therapeutics focusing on immunology and oncology. The Company is building its robust portfolio and differentiated pipeline through internal R&D capability, collaborations with co-discovery and co-development partners, and select acquisitions.
The proprietary antibody technology platform Harbour Mice® generates fully human monoclonal antibodies in two heavy and two light chains (H2L2) format, as well as heavy chain only (HCAb) format. Building upon the HCAb antibodies, the HCAb-based immune cell engagers (HBICE®) bispecific antibody technology is capable of delivering tumor-killing effects unachievable by traditional combination therapies. Integrating Harbour Mice®, and HBICE® with a single B cell cloning platform, our antibody discovery engine is highly unique and efficient for the development of next-generation therapeutic antibodies. For further information, please refer to www.harbourbiomed.com.
About Insilico Medicine
Insilico Medicine, a global clinical stage biotechnology company powered by generative AI, is connecting biology, chemistry, medicine and science research using next-generation AI systems. The company has developed AI platforms that utilize deep generative models, reinforcement learning, transformers, and other modern machine learning techniques for novel target discovery and the generation of novel molecular structures with desired properties. Insilico Medicine is developing breakthrough solutions to discover and develop innovative drugs for cancer, fibrosis, central nervous system diseases, infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, and aging-related diseases. www.insilico.com
AB Electrolux publishes 2024 Annual Report
STOCKHOLM, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AB Electrolux Annual Report for 2024 has been published on the Group’s website as of today.
The Annual Report in Swedish as well as an English translation are available on www.electroluxgroup.com in pdf-format. The Swedish Annual Report is also available on the Group’s website in European Single Electronic Format (ESEF).
This is information that AB Electrolux is obliged to make public pursuant to the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication on 20-02-2025 08:00 CET.
For more information:
Ann-Sofi Jönsson, Investor Relations, +46 73 025 10 05
Electrolux Group Press Hotline, +46 8 657 65 07
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
https://news.cision.com/electrolux-group/r/ab-electrolux-publishes-2024-annual-report,c4107318
The following files are available for download:
Annual Report 2024 |
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https://mb.cision.com/Public/1853/4107318/bfb412d695d2c318.pdf |
250220 PR Electrolux publishes 2024 Annual Report eng |
Hotel & Shop Plus 2025 Preview: Exploring Symbiotic Innovation in the Hotel Industry
SHANGHAI, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hotel & Shop Plus, organized by IM Sinoexpo, gathers leading suppliers from construction and operation sector under one roof to present their latest products, services and innovative developments for hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and all commercial facilities. It will be held at SNIEC in Shanghai from March 31 to April 3, 2025. Our exhibit categories include hotel building, hotel supplies, smart hotel, commercial cleaning.
In 2025, the hotel industry is shifting focus towards enhancing customer experience, operational efficiency, and space design. Creating symbiotic experiences through design has become a key issue for the industry to address. In this context, Hotel & Shop Plus will organize various exciting events with the theme of “Ecology • Symbiosis,” such as the China International Building & Interior Design Forum and the China International Lighting Design Forum. These events will bring together experts to explore the future of the hotel industry.
2025 Speaker Lineup Released:
- Chris Godfrey, Co-CEO of HBA
- Mark Eacott, Global Design Vice President of Ennismore Hotel Group
- Eirc W. Tsay, Founder of Studio STAY
- Shanshan Qi, Principal, STUDIO QI ARCHITECTS
- Mai Chongchaiyo, Chief Creative Director of Steve Leung Hospitality Limited
- Martin Klaasen, Managing Partner of Nulty Group
- Emmanuel Clair, CEO & Chief Lighting Designer of Light Cibles
- Wan Jun Bai, General Manager & Creative Director of Bamboo Lighting Design
At Hotel & Shop Plus, top exhibitors will showcase innovative products and solutions. For example, ARROW will provide high – quality intelligent sanitary solutions for hotel clients. Its new products, such as the X7 smart toilet and the YURI urinal, demonstrate the perfect blend of technology and quality, heralding a new era of smart bathroom solutions. Exhibitors in the building materials category, including Jomoo, Simon, Johnson, Longsheng, FUSA, Lanshen, SANGO, Saintly, Kinda Signage, and Nason, have all confirmed their attendance at the event.
High-quality linens and supplies enhance guest comfort, positive reviews, and repeat visits. Many exhibitors of hotel supplies and textiles have also brought high-quality products, including Groupe GM, LE LABO, ADA, La Bottega, LANVIN, CANASIN SIDEFU, AMERICA STANDARD, GOLDENSAIL, etc., bringing a broader vision to the exhibition and more development opportunities for hoteliers.
Registration and Participation
Click here to register free for Hotel & Shop Plus 2025. Discover trends, network, & seize opportunities at this event. https://reg.hdeexpo.com/?utm_source=media&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=PRNEWSWIRE3
For queries, email: jade.liao@imsinoexpo.com.
Visit: Hotel & Shop Plus
BLUETTI Unveils Game-Changing Energy Solutions at PV EXPO 2025
TOKYO, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a global leader in lithium energy storage solutions, made a significant impact at PV EXPO 2025. Takumasa Kawamura, COO of BLUETTI Japan, delivered a keynote speech titled “The Portable Power Business in a New Era” emphasizing the growing importance of portable power solutions for disaster resilience and everyday life. He introduced BLUETTI’s latest innovations and underscored the company’s commitment to expanding services and collaborations in the Japanese market.
Premium Series: Unlocking Boundless Energy Potential
BLUETTI introduced its Premium Series, designed for users seeking exceptional performance and reliability. These products feature ultra-fast charging, compact yet powerful designs, an innovative Power Lifting Mode, and extended battery lifespan. The company prioritizes offline distribution to enhance customer experience and provide efficient after-sales support. The series includes:
- AC60P: A highly portable 504Wh power station with a 600W output, IP65 water-resistant rating, and fast charging capabilities, making it ideal for outdoor use, is now available at BICCAMERA and Kojima.
- AC180P: A versatile 1440Wh power station with a 1800W continuous output and 2700W Power Lifting Mode, perfect for home backup and mobile applications.
Introducing the AORA Series: Tailored for Japan’s Energy Needs
In response to Japan’s growing demand for efficient home energy storage solutions, BLUETTI unveiled the AORA Series, designed specifically for the Japanese market. Inspired by “青空” (meaning “blue sky”), the series symbolizes clean energy and a brighter future. The first models include:
- AORA 80: 768Wh battery capacity, 1000W output, 80% charge in 45 minutes, and a 10-year lifespan with advanced BMS protection.
- AORA 100: 1152Wh capacity, 1800W output (3600W peak), ultra-quiet operation (40dB), and fire-resistant housing for extreme conditions.
Enhanced Local Services for Japanese Customers
BLUETTI is strengthening its commitment to the Japanese market by establishing a dedicated service center in Japan. This facility will provide technical support, after-sales services, and consultation for energy storage solutions, ensuring a seamless experience for local users.
Future Commitment: Expanding BLUETTI’s Presence in Japan
“We are fully committed to delivering innovative energy solutions tailored to local needs,” said Takumasa Kawamura, COO of BLUETTI Japan. “Our mission is to empower individuals and businesses with reliable, eco-friendly power options, reinforcing our dedication to sustainability and energy independence.”
Building on this vision, BLUETTI plans to introduce more localized energy storage products over the next 3–5 years. The company aims to expand its service network, enhance offline distribution channels, and collaborate with renewable energy organizations to drive wider adoption of sustainable energy solutions across Japan.
With continuous innovation and customer-centric strategies, BLUETTI is poised to lead the next era of portable and home energy solutions in Japan.
If you are interested in BLUETTI’s products or wish to collaborate with us, please contact Anna Zhang, Japan Business Director, at anna@poweroak.net.