Home Blog Page 60

Zoomlion Marks 34th Anniversary, Highlighting Milestones in Innovation and Global Growth

CHANGSHA, China, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. (“Zoomlion” or “the Company”) marked its 34th anniversary on September 28 with celebrations across its global operations under the theme “Youth in Bloom, Horizons Beyond.” The main event at Zoomlion Smart Industrial City in Changsha brought together company leaders and employees.

Zoomlion celebrates its 34th anniversary
Zoomlion celebrates its 34th anniversary

Employees from 22 countries delivered anniversary greetings in their own languages. Zoomlion’s industrial parks, overseas business hubs and regional operations also held local activities on the same day.

Over the past 34 years, Zoomlion has expanded from its early roots in construction machinery into a diversified equipment business with operations in markets around the world.

1992 | The beginning. Zoomlion was founded in Changsha by Zhan Chunxin and seven colleagues, with an initial focus on commercializing engineering research and bringing new construction machinery products to market.

First product | HBT40A concrete pump. Less than a year later, the team launched the HBT40A, Zoomlion’s first independently developed product. It entered a concrete pump market then largely dominated by imported equipment and became the company’s first step toward building a broader product portfolio.

1994 onward | Expanding the product range. Zoomlion quickly broadened its lineup. By 1994, it offered 78 models across concrete machinery, construction cranes and sanitation equipment. By 1996 annual output value had reached RMB 120 million. The expansion moved Zoomlion beyond a single product category and into several areas of equipment manufacturing.

2000-2010 | Entering the capital markets. Zoomlion listed A-shares on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in 2000 and H-shares in Hong Kong in 2010, becoming the first company in its industry with an A+H share listing. The listings supported further expansion as the company’s business and product portfolio continued to grow.

2002 onward | Adding new businesses. Through acquisitions and in-house development, Zoomlion expanded into foundation machinery, aerial work platforms and mining machinery. It also built capabilities in key components including control systems and hydraulics, broadening both its equipment portfolio and technical capabilities.

2006-2008 | Adapting to a larger business. As its product lines and operations expanded, Zoomlion introduced a divisional structure in 2006 to manage a larger and more diversified business. By 2008, annual revenue had exceeded RMB 10 billion.

One Zoomlion brand. As Zoomlion expanded into more businesses, some operations had developed under different brand names. The company later brought them together under the ZOOMLION brand, creating a unified identity across its domestic and international operations.

2008 onward | Expanding overseas. Zoomlion accelerated its international expansion with the acquisition of Italian concrete machinery manufacturer CIFA in 2008. Further overseas acquisitions followed, alongside the development of production bases, R&D centers and parts-supply operations outside China. The company also built local sales, service and parts-support capabilities in major international markets, extending its presence beyond product exports.

Today, Zoomlion’s businesses span construction, mining and agricultural machinery. The company operates 11 overseas R&D and manufacturing bases, and its products and services reach more than 170 countries and regions. International revenue now accounts for nearly 60% of total revenue. In key markets, Zoomlion combines local manufacturing with sales, service and parts support to respond more directly to customer needs.

As it enters its 35th year, Zoomlion plans to continue advancing diversification, globalization and digitalization, with a focus on high-end equipment, intelligent technologies and greener development. The company will continue investing in technology and localized operations, including the use of AI, robotics and new-energy technologies across its businesses. These investments will support product development and help the company serve customers across key global markets.

AustCham Lao Elects New Leadership and Highlights Australian Investment, Community Impact at Annual General Meeting and Sundowner

A picture of the Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 term. (Photo by Austcham)

The Australian Chamber of Commerce in Lao PDR (AustCham Lao) hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and networking Sundowner event on September 23, bringing together business leaders, diplomatic representatives, and community partners to elect its new leadership and review key achievements at S.N. Residences in Vientiane.

Outgoing AustCham President Dean Collett congratulated the Chamber on a clear 2026 strategic workplan shaped directly by member feedback, adding value for members, maintaining a healthy financial position, and deepening engagement with the Australian Alumni community over the year.

“As Laos pursues economic reform and sustainable growth, I am confident AustCham will continue to play a vital role in strengthening the partnerships that contribute to shared prosperity for both Laos and Australia,” said Patron of AustCham Lao Megan Jones, Ambassador to the Lao PDR.

The event also marked a transition for the Chamber with the official announcement of the incoming Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 term.

Newly Announced AustCham Lao Leadership

The newly appointed Board of Directors brings together fresh perspectives and seasoned experience from Lao and Australian businesses.

Samira Fares of ANZ will serve as President, with Alex Cameron of AgCoTech as Vice President and Michael Phin of Valentis as Treasurer.

The new Board Directors are Ben Tucker of Phu Bia Mining, Oliver Purvis-Smith of DDD Career Connect, and Simon Porter of Western Australian International School. 

Continuing Board Directors are Somvang Keomahavong of MMG, Aekananh Keosouvath of ANZ, Chris Smithies of Earth Systems, and Samantha Pike, Executive Director.

A picture of Annual General Meeting and networking Sundowner event on September 23. (Photo by Austcham)

AustCham Lao thanks outgoing Board members Dean Collett of Phu Bia Mining, Jane Harvey of Rio Tinto, Brendon Bangma, and Martin Glenister for their service and dedication to AustCham Lao over the past two years.

Networking and Connecting for Growth

The Sundowner was sponsored by Phu Bia Mining (PBM). 

In his address, PBM Managing Director David Reid highlighted the company’s long-term commitment to the Lao PDR through sustainable, high-quality mining practices, community development, workforce capability building and investment in local infrastructure.

David reaffirmed PBM’s ongoing partnership with AustCham Lao and emphasized the company’s focus on maintaining high safety standards and creating employment, skills development and local business opportunities through its existing operations and future planned mines. As a significant long-term investor in the Lao PDR, PBM continues to contribute to the country’s economic development while delivering substantial financial and broader economic benefits to the Government and people of the Lao PDR.

The official proceedings concluded with a vibrant Sundowner networking session, where attendees connected over refreshments and connected over shared opportunities and potential collaboration. 

Driving Community Support for Free Paediatric Healthcare

Demonstrating the Chamber’s focus on corporate social responsibility (CSR), the event featured a special presentation by Lao Friends Hospital for Children (LFHC), AustCham Lao’s official 2026 CSR Charity Partner. Pierre Boismard, LFHC Director of Development, shared insights into the organization’s work providing free, high-quality healthcare to children in northern Laos.

Building on this partnership, AustCham Lao announced that its upcoming Annual Charity Golf Day will take place on 6 November in Vang Vieng. All proceeds from the tournament will directly benefit LFHC to support its paediatric healthcare services and outreach programs. Sponsorship opportunities and ticket information are available through the event registration page. 

Here: https://app.glueup.com/event/austcham-lao-annual-charity-golf-day-2026-195337/ 

The evening concluded with a Sundowner networking session, where attendees enjoyed refreshments by Sticky Fingers Restaurant and connected over shared opportunities and potential collaboration.

About AustCham Lao

The Australian Chamber of Commerce in Lao PDR (AustCham Lao) aims to strengthen business connections between Australia and Lao PDR and support members in contributing to the national agenda and achieving sustainable growth. It serves as the voice of Australian business in Laos, promoting bilateral trade, foreign investment, and commercial connections between Australia and Lao PDR. www.austchamlao.org 

Panyathip British International School Marks 25 Years with “Legacy Night

Panyathip British International School marked its 25th anniversary with Legacy Night, celebrating its history and its mission to prepare Lao students for the world. 25 September 2026. Vientiane, Laos. (Photo supplied by Panyathip British International School:PBIS)

On 25 September,  Panyathip British International School (PBIS) in Vientiane held “Legacy Night” to celebrate its 25th anniversary, under the theme “Growing Generations: From Laos to the World.”

Founder Pathana Panyathip established the school in 2001 after she could not find one where her own children enjoyed learning.

Pathana said that 25 years ago, all she wanted was a school where her children would love to learn. She said the trust of parents, the hearts of teachers and the belief of partners have made PBIS grow. 

She said the legacy belongs to all of them and that the night was a chance to thank them.

The school called Legacy Night the flagship event of its anniversary year. Guests included parents, alumni, teachers, staff and members of the PBIS Board of Governors, along with international academic partners. John Gwyn Jones attended on behalf of the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA).

Guests first toured “Growing Generations,” an exhibition that traced the school’s history from its first classrooms to the present through the stories of students, teachers and families. They then moved to the ballroom for dinner, where students took centre stage. They performed a traditional Lao dance, sang with the PBIS School Choir and presented a contemporary “Legacy Dance” that retold the school’s journey through movement.

Pathana also introduced her pocket book, The School I Built for My Children, which recounts in her own words how a mother’s hope became an institution. She signed copies for guests. The school then premiered From Love to the Legacy, a 25-year documentary featuring students, alumni, parents and teachers who have lived the PBIS journey.

CEO Palinyakone Panyathip used her address to look ahead. She said PBIS is proud of what it has achieved and carries that pride with humility. She said the school’s students are Lao and are ready for the world, and that over the next 25 years the school’s role is to help them get there faster, with confidence in who they are and where they come from.

The evening ended with students, staff, partners and families gathering on stage for a group photograph, which the school described as a shared pledge to keep growing generations from Laos to the world.

PBIS serves Lao and international families through the British curriculum. The school says it aims to help students grow with confidence in their Lao roots and a global outlook.

Laos, China Open Joint Military Aviation Center for Lao Air Force Training

A picutre of the opening of military support and training center at Ban Keun Airport in Vientiane Province on 29 September. (Photo by Lao people's Army News)

Laos and China have opened a joint military support and training center at Ban Keun Airport in Vientiane Province on 29 September.

The center will support training for Lao Air Force pilots and operate alongside the China-Laos Friendship Aviation Academy, according to Lao people’s Army News.

The two countries will jointly operate and maintain the facilities. Beijing has not disclosed what personnel, aircraft, or other equipment will be based at the site.

China’s defense ministry said the center was established through consultations between the two countries and the facility is intended to deepen military cooperation and contribute to regional peace and stability.

The opening comes as China expands its military cooperation with countries across Southeast Asia. China and Cambodia opened a joint training and support center at Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base in 2025.

Vientiane’s Expanding Military Partnerships

For Laos, the new aviation center adds another layer to its long-standing military ties with China, while the Lao military also maintains defense cooperation with other countries.

In June, Laos and Russia held the LAROS-2026 joint exercises at the Kommadam training ground, focusing on military training and cooperation.

The new center comes shortly after China and Laos held the Peace Train-2026 humanitarian medical exercise in Vientiane, which included medical training and services by the two militaries.

The full scope of the new aviation center remains unclear. China has not publicly detailed the number of personnel or aircraft that could operate from Ban Keun.

To address potential regional concerns, China’s Ministry of National Defense stated that the facility does not host independent Chinese troops and not directed against any third party. 

Tamarind Health launches Rare Cancer Centre to make specialist expertise easier to access

New Rare Cancer Centre brings together expertise in rare and complex cancers, giving patients, families and referring physicians a single point of access to specialist care.

SINGAPORE, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Marking Rare Cancer Day, Tamarind Health today announced the launch of its Rare Cancer Centre, bringing together specialist oncologists in rare and complex cancers to make it easier for patients and families to identify and access relevant expertise. While individual rare cancers affect relatively small numbers of people, collectively they represent a significant proportion of cancer diagnoses and can present particular challenges in diagnosis and care.

Research estimates that around one in five cancer diagnoses is for a rare cancer[1], while studies have identified delays in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and accessing appropriate specialist expertise and treatment[2]. 

Spanning rare and complex cancers such as haematologic malignancies and lymphoma, sarcoma, uncommon skin cancers, neuroendocrine tumours (NET) and brain cancer, the Centre draws on oncologist expertise from across Tamarind Health’s oncology network.

The Rare Cancer Centre aims to make that process easier by providing a single destination where patients and caregivers can learn more about rare cancers and identify specialists with relevant experience. Rather than having to research and approach individual practices one by one, they have one point of access to rare cancer specialists, who can draw on Tamarind Health’s wider network of expertise across different disciplines where needed.

Lim Eng Seng, Group CEO of Tamarind Health, said: “The Rare Cancer Centre reflects what Tamarind Health was built to do, bring together specialist expertise from across our network around the needs of patients. We have significant depth of experience across different rare cancers, and the Centre builds on that strength by giving patients a clearer route to the specialist expertise that can help inform a personalised treatment, as they navigate what can be a complex cancer journey.”

Dr Kevin Tay, Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist of OncoCare said, “Rare cancers can be among the most challenging to diagnose and treat, and patients can often feel alone when facing a cancer that few people have experience with. By bringing rare cancer specialists together, we can draw on our collective experience and wider multidisciplinary network to help establish the diagnosis and determine an appropriate treatment approach, so they know they are not navigating that journey alone.”

Specialists currently represented within the Rare Cancer Centre include Dr Akhil Chopra, Dr Colin Phipps Diong, Dr Foo Kian Fong, Dr Angela Pang, Dr Richard Quek, Dr Tanujaa Rajasekaran, Dr Kevin Tay, Dr Wong Siew Wei and Dr Valerie Yang. 

With Tamarind Health serving patients across Asia, the Rare Cancer Centre will also help patients from across the region seeking specialist cancer care in Singapore, identify the relevant specialists. 

For referring physicians, the Centre provides a dedicated point of access to identify specialists with relevant experience and discuss or refer complex cases. It will also support regional physician education, with Dr Richard Quek, Dr Angela Pang and Dr Valerie Yang leading a webinar sharing their specialist knowledge and experience on sarcoma for healthcare professionals on 3 October. More information and registration are available here.

The Tamarind Health Rare Cancer Centre can be accessed at https://tamarindhealth.com/rare-cancer

[1] DeSantis, C.E., Kramer, J.L. & Jemal, A. (2017). The burden of rare cancers in the United States.CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 67(4), 261–272. DOI: 10.3322/caac.21400.

[2] Ray-Coquard, I., Pujade-Lauraine, E., Le Cesne, A., et al. (2017). Improving treatment results with reference centres for rare cancers: where do we stand?European Journal of Cancer, 77, 90–98. DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2017.02.006.

– END –

About Tamarind Health

Tamarind Health is an integrated oncology-focused healthcare group bringing together established cancer care practices and specialists across Asia. Headquartered in Singapore, its doctor-led network spans the cancer care journey, from diagnostics and treatment to survivorship and well-being.  

With a purpose to set new standards in healthcare for better patient outcomes, Tamarind Health is building a connected platform for oncology and related services across six markets: Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Mainland China.  Its network includes OncoCare, TalkMed, Luma Women’s Imaging Centre, Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre, Hong Kong Women’s Imaging Centre, Tamarind Specialists Centre, Can-Care and Novena Heart Centre.

For more information, visit: https://tamarindhealth.com

For further information, please contact:

Tamarind Health
Hien Lane, Senior Vice President, Marketing
hien.lane@tamarindhealth.com

 

Announcement of change in the total number of votes in AB SKF

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Due to a conversion of shares from Series A to Series B in accordance with AB SKF’s Articles of Association, the Company confirms the following.

As per 30 September 2026, there are a total of 455,351,068 shares in AB SKF, out of which 28,918,068 shares are of Series A and 426,433,000 shares are of Series B. The number of votes in the Company amounts to 71,561,368.

AB SKF does not hold any own shares.

Aktiebolaget SKF
      (publ)

This is information that AB SKF is obliged to make public pursuant to the Financial Instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 30 September 2026 at 06.30 CEST.

For further information, please contact:
Press Relations: Carl Bjernstam, +46 31-337 2517; +46 722 201 893; carl.bjernstam@skf.com
Investor Relations: Sophie Arnius, +46 31-337 8072; +46 705 908 072; sophie.arnius@skf.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/skf/r/announcement-of-change-in-the-total-number-of-votes-in-ab-skf,c4402159

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/637/4402159/4293352.pdf

20260930 Announcement of change in the total number of votes in AB SKF

https://news.cision.com/skf/i/skf-supb-177-jpeg-fullresolution,c3568706

SKF-SuPB 177 jpeg fullresolution

 

Greta Garbo is back – starring in SKF’s initiative to overcome friction

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Greta Garbo returns to SKF. More than a century after her first campaign promoting SKF, one of the most iconic figures of our time is once again the face of the company. Using AI technology, Garbo has been recreated. This time, she’s drawing attention to groundbreaking magnetic bearings with the potential to entirely eliminate friction. At the same time, SKF is reintroducing a payment model pioneered by the company in 1919.

SKF Pay like it's 1919 - with your energy savings. Global campaign featuring Greta Garbo and SKF Magnetic bearing solutions.
SKF Pay like it’s 1919 – with your energy savings. Global campaign featuring Greta Garbo and SKF Magnetic bearing solutions.

Before she became a global icon, Greta Garbo appeared in one of Swedish industry’s campaign films for an international audience, with SKF among the companies featured. But for SKF, Garbo represents more than just a historical connection to the company’s early years. Her journey reflects the values that have always driven SKF: the determination to keep thinking differently and the courage to challenge established conventions as the world changes. Today, around 20 percent of global energy is used to overcome friction in machinery and industrial processes, making friction one of the world’s greatest sustainability challenges. To address this challenge, SKF has developed frictionless technology.

“Industry is facing growing demands to reduce energy consumption, strengthen competitiveness and meet the needs of increasingly energy-intensive operations. Our innovative levitating magnetic bearings eliminate friction entirely. But just as we did a century ago, we need to find new ways to lower the barriers to adoption and make the technology more accessible,” says Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO.

The challenge isn’t new. As early as in 1919, SKF faced a similar situation. Its solution became an offering that enabled customers to finance their investments through the energy savings generated by the technology over time. SKF is now reintroducing that same principle to make the next generation of energy-efficient technology more accessible and accelerate the adoption of solutions that reduce both energy consumption and climate impact.

“There are few companies in the world better at fighting friction than SKF. But having the most innovative technology or the most customer-focused payment model is not enough. The way we communicate must be equally innovative and inspiring. By bringing Greta back, we hope to open more eyes to frictionless and energy-efficient technology. Sometimes, we need to look back to find the best way forward,” says Per Nilsson, Global Head of Communication and Brand.

SKF’s magnetic bearings are used in data centres, cooling systems, semiconductor applications and other energy-intensive applications. By suspending the rotating shaft in a magnetic field without physical contact, the technology can reduce energy consumption, wear and maintenance while increasing availability.

Combined with AI-driven condition monitoring, it also provides operational insights for smarter asset management. By bringing together energy-efficient technology, digital intelligence and new business models, SKF aims to lower investment barriers and accelerate the adoption of more competitive and sustainable solutions.

The initiative has been developed in collaboration with Greta Garbo’s family and Harriet Brown & Company Inc., whose support has ensured that Greta Garbo’s legacy is handled responsibly.

Read more about the initiative here: http://www.skf.com/fighting-friction.

Aktiebolaget SKF
      (publ)

Since 1907, SKF has been making some of the world’s most innovative bearings, seals, lubrication systems, condition monitoring solutions, and services to reduce friction. Less friction means more energy saved and by reducing it, we make industry smarter, more competitive, and more energy efficient, building a more sustainable future where we can all do more with less. SKF is represented in approximately 130 countries and has around 17,000 distributor locations worldwide. Annual sales in 2025 were SEK 91,583 million and the number of employees was 37,271. www.skf.com 

® SKF is a registered trademark of the SKF Group.

Sungrow Powers Cambodia’s Large-Scale BESS with Black-Start Capabilities

TAKMAO, Cambodia, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sungrow, a globally leading PV inverter and energy storage system provider, has announced the successful grid connection and full acceptance testing of the Cambodia EDC Kandal Stueng station (GS79) project, a 108.4 MW/215.6 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Takmao, Kandal Province. The project brings grid-forming technology into a large-scale utility application, supporting grid stability, black-start capability and coordination with hydro and thermal generation.

Sungrow Powers Cambodia’s Large-Scale BESS with Black-Start Capabilities
Sungrow Powers Cambodia’s Large-Scale BESS with Black-Start Capabilities

Grid-forming capabilities support multiple grid-restoration functions

The project plays an important role in supporting voltage and frequency stability at a key point in Cambodia’s central power grid, including transmission corridors that import electricity from Vietnam. Its grid-forming capabilities were put through a series of demanding system-restoration scenarios, demonstrating how energy storage can take on a more active role in supporting the power system.

Key highlights include:

  • Large-scale black start from zero voltage: 516 grid-forming PCS units successfully energized the entire plant from zero voltage, establishing stable voltage and frequency across the system.
  • Restoration of a 240 km transmission network: The system supported the energization of approximately 240 km of transmission lines and five substations, while maintaining stable operation as the network was progressively restored.
  • Support for multiple generation sources: The system supported the start-up and synchronization of the 60 MW Kamchay Hydropower Plant, before the restored network was operated together with the 135 MW CIIDG coal-fired power plant, energy storage and loads.
  • Stable operation under challenging grid conditions: During restoration, the system remained stable through five transformer energization events, including a transformer rated at up to 100 MVA. It also maintained stability when synchronizing different power sources under a phase-angle difference of up to 15 degrees, demonstrating its ability to handle challenging conditions during system recovery.
  • Extended islanded operation: The system operated independently for 3.5 hours, demonstrating that the energy storage system could continue supporting the local network even when separated from the main grid.
  • Seamless transitions: The project completed three transitions between grid-connected and islanded operation, with voltage deviation kept below 2% and transient frequency fluctuation within 0.15 Hz during grid separation.

“This project demonstrates that the value of grid-forming energy storage goes far beyond storing electricity.When a power system faces disturbances or loses normal grid support, grid-forming technology can help establish and maintain stable voltage and frequency, support system restoration and keep the grid operating reliably,” said Michael Ruan, Regional Director of Sungrow Southeast Asia and South Asia. “Through projects like this, Sungrow is helping turn energy storage into a more active grid-support asset and bringing proven grid-forming capabilities to the evolving power systems of Southeast Asia.”

Reducing Technical Risk and Ensuring Timely Delivery

Faced with strict test protocols, complex power system scenarios, a compressed construction schedule and rainy‑season working conditions with ambient temperature up to 40°C, Sungrow’s cross‑functional team covering pre-sales, on‑site delivery and R&D collaborated closely to deliver high‑quality project outcomes:

  • 20-day commissioning and testing: The on‑site team worked relentlessly under hot and humid conditions for two consecutive months. The team wrapped up hot commissioning plus three rounds of performance tests within 20 days to guarantee timely grid‑connection.
  • End‑to‑End Service Solution: Sungrow provides full‑lifecycle and one‑stop services spanning integrated design of storage and monitoring systems, EPC‑related support, equipment design, commissioning and O&M services, enabling the customer to fulfill customized grid‑level requirements with reduced management overhead.

As Southeast Asia advances its energy transition, Sungrow will continue to bring proven energy storage technologies and solutions to the region, helping customers build more reliable and sustainable power infrastructure.

Contact: Luly Wang, luly.wang@sungrow-hq.com