The internet and social media landscape in Laos experienced significant growth in 2025, driven by faster internet speeds and increasing mobile phone adoption.
ISCA Launches SCAQ Career Mobility Programme to Promote Cross-Border Exchange of Accountancy Talent

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2025 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) has launched the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ) Career Mobility Programme (CMP), an initiative designed to support promising accountancy undergraduates towards attaining the Chartered Accountant of Singapore designation through education pathways and facilitated work experience, as well as to build a stronger pipeline of accountancy talent to support business growth in the region. The programme will begin with a pilot run in Vietnam, and expand to more countries progressively by Q2 2025.
Under the programme, ISCA will partner with Accredited Training Organisations (ATOs)1 and their international network to provide high-quality training and development initiatives, and assist them with talent recruitment and hiring. This will be done through the creation of more cross-border work opportunities – such as exchanges, secondments, and professional stints – which will enable eligible candidates to gain valuable overseas work experience and cross-cultural learning. This is expected to especially benefit accounting firms and Singapore businesses; the CMP will incentivise more students to pursue accountancy studies as well as professional qualifications like the SCAQ, which will in turn help to grow the pool of available professional accountancy talent to support the expansion and growth of Singapore businesses globally.
ISCA President Mr Teo Ser Luck said, “The launch of the CMP is a significant step towards enhancing ISCA’s impact on the accountancy profession both in Singapore and beyond. Our intention for this programme is to primarily benefit both Singapore businesses who are looking to expand overseas, as well as to support our SCAQ candidates with avenues for overseas exposure and experience. Through this, we are not only helping to nurture well-rounded accounting professionals but also addressing the growing demand for skilled accountants in Singapore and the region.”
The first ATOs to partner with ISCA’s CMP are KPMG Vietnam and KPMG in Singapore. Through the programme, eligible SCAQ candidates hired by KPMG in Singapore and KPMG Vietnam will be offered overseas professional stints in each other’s offices. Both KPMG offices in Vietnam and Singapore will benefit from an increased pool of accountancy talent, while also fostering robust cross-border talent mobility, providing their staff with beneficial skills and expertise stemming from international exposure. This will also help to address manpower shortages to meet market demand, while elevating the attractiveness of the profession in the region.
The programme was launched on 5 March 2025, during a Memorandum-of-Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony held at KPMG’s office in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. During the ceremony, Mr Chang Hung Chun, Managing Partner, Head of Audit from KPMG Vietnam & Cambodia, presented the MOU on behalf of Mr Warrick Cleine MBE, Chairman and CEO of KPMG Vietnam & Cambodia, who signed the MOU in advance. The MOU was subsequently signed by Mr Teo Ser Luck, President, ISCA and Mr Alex Koh, Head of Audit from KPMG in Singapore, signifying the collaboration between ISCA, KPMG Vietnam and KPMG Singapore.
Mr Chang Hung Chun, Managing Partner, Head of Audit from KPMG Vietnam & Cambodia said, “This MOU marks a significant milestone in the strong partnership between ISCA and KPMG, enabling cross-border mobility. KPMG Vietnam is proud to be part of this pilot, paving the way for future opportunities for young professionals across the region.”
Ms Shelley Chan, Partner, Audit, who oversees people matters in KPMG in Singapore said, “KPMG has always championed the growth of the accountancy profession, fostering talent that goes beyond technical excellence to become impactful leaders in a dynamic global environment. This partnership with ISCA exemplifies our commitment to global mobility and the development of globally and regionally capable professionals.”
The inaugural launch of the CMP in Vietnam also marks a significant step in ISCA’s efforts in expanding its presence in the region beyond Singapore. As of March 2025, ISCA has inked several agreements with leading universities in Vietnam, to provide pathways for the SCAQ programme to nurture a strong accountancy talent pipeline for the region. Across over 129 universities in Vietnam, there are collectively over 92,000 students enrolled in accountancy, which provides a rich pool of students ready for further development towards professional accountancy. Through the CMP and other initiatives, ISCA also aims to bridge gaps between graduates and employers’ expectations2, by providing avenues for further professional development such as education and practical training to better align graduates’ competencies with market demands.
In addition, ISCA has launched its Professional Services Centre in Ho Chi Minh City, which is the second of such centres ISCA has set up. The centres mark a joint partnership between ISCA, the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME), Institute of Valuers and Appraisers, Singapore (IVAS), Law Society of Singapore, Singapore Manufacturing Foundation (SMF), and the Tax Academy of Singapore, and aim to serve as a conduit to promote the expansion and availability of professional services such as accounting, sustainability, legal, business valuation, taxation and other corporate services, to support business growth in their countries.
Hashtag: #ISCA
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Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)
The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with over 39,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 10 countries.
Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.
ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.
ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.
For more information, visit www.isca.org.sg.
Tutify Champions Mathematical Excellence With SEAMO X 2025

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2025 – Tutify Education has proudly supported the global mathematical community through its involvement in the prestigious SEAMO X 2025 competition, held earlier this year. The event began with 30,000 students in the preliminary round and concluded with 1,318 finalists from 22 countries competing in the final round which was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 17 to 20 January 2025. It successfully brought together young minds passionate about mathematics, celebrating their talent and dedication on an international stage.
The competition commenced on Saturday morning, with participants engaging in an intense examination designed to test their mathematical prowess. Following the exam, participants were invited to enjoy a cultural tour of the host city, allowing them to unwind and explore the local sights. The event culminated on Sunday evening with a grand gala dinner and awards ceremony, where Coach Leo, a Director of both SEAMO and Tutify Education, personally handed out awards to the top performers, recognising their exceptional achievements in the field of mathematics.
SEAMO X 2025 also welcomed distinguished VIP guests, including Ms. Rukmalee Premarathne, Director of Education, Ministry of Education, Sri Lanka, Mr. Elbek Saidov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Malaysia and several ministers from other countries
The competition was organised by Coach Leo with the aim of fostering the exchange of mathematical knowledge across borders, strengthening global cohesion, and assessing Singapore’s standing on the world stage of mathematics. Through SEAMO, Tutify Education continues its commitment to supporting initiatives that provide students with opportunities to excel and grow in their academic journeys.
Tutify Education is a leading provider of math enrichment in Singapore, offering comprehensive programs designed to nurture and develop students’ mathematical abilities. With a strong focus on Math Olympiad training, and specialised PSLE math tuition, Tutify is committed to helping students excel in their academic pursuits. Through tailored mathematics tuition and expert guidance, Tutify aims to build a solid foundation for students while preparing them for competitive challenges and examinations, fostering a passion for mathematics that lasts a lifetime.
Looking ahead, the SEAMO X series will continue with SEAMO 2025 (Round 1) taking place in Singapore in August 2025, followed by the global round, SEAMO X 2026 (Round 2), hosted overseas in January next year. Plans for SEAMO X 2026 are already underway, ensuring the competition’s continued growth on the international stage.
For more information, please visit https://tutify.com.sg/.
Hashtag: #Tutify
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Food and Hotel Asia-Food & Beverage returns with Australia’s largest-ever presence at any global trade show

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2025 – Food & Hotel Asia-Food & Beverage (FHA-F&B), Asia’s leading international food and beverage event, makes a return this 8-11 April 2025 in Singapore EXPO, cementing itself once again as the ultimate one-stop platform for Asia’s F&B professionals and industry leaders under one roof. 1,500 exhibitors, 80 group pavilions from more than 50 countries and regions, as well as 65,000 attendees from over 90 countries and regions will be expected.

First-Time and Exclusive Participation
Among the 1,500 exhibitors, more than 35% are new exhibitors, participating in the trade show for the first time, accounting for more than 900 new exhibitors bringing more diversity and innovation to the show. The Singapore Pavilion will feature over 80 local companies, including exclusive exhibitors such as Toh Thye San (SG) and Lim Joo Huat (SG) to highlight Singapore’s rich culinary heritage while spotlighting cutting-edge trends in food innovation and sustainability.
As the Partner Country for FHA-Food & Beverage 2025, Australia will showcase its rich culinary heritage, innovative food trends, and vibrant brewing culture in this prestigious partnership. “FHA-Food & Beverage is the region’s leading food and beverage trade show, and it is important that Australian businesses feel strengthened in their efforts as they grow their business at FHA. 2025 marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between Australia and Singapore, serving as Partner Country at FHA-Food & Beverage in this milestone year underscores the depth of our bilateral relationship with Singapore and highlights our broader commitment to the region” says Chris Morley, Trade and Investment Commissioner Hanoi, Southeast Asia Regional Agribusiness and Food Lead, Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade).
The EU Pavilion will present a diverse selection of high-quality food and beverages from all 27 EU Member States. “We are delighted to present the excellence and diversity of European food and beverages at FHA-Food & Beverage Singapore 2025. The EU Pavilion highlights our commitment to providing authentic, high-quality, safe, and sustainable agri-food products that reflect Europe’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. This event is a valuable occasion to strengthen business partnerships between the EU and Singapore. It reinforces our deep and strong trade ties and fosters new opportunities for collaboration in the food and beverage sector.” says Iwona Piórko, European Union Ambassador to Singapore.
Bold New Spaces and Competitive Events
In recent years, non-alcoholic beverage consumption has steadily risen, driven by health-conscious consumers, particularly in Asian markets. Japan, leading the “sober curious” movement in the Asia-Pacific region, is projected to consume 621 million liters of non-alcoholic drinks by 2027. China’s non-alcoholic beverage industry is expanding rapidly, with revenues expected to nearly double from USD 99.55 billion in 2018 to USD 196.46 billion by 2028, Meanwhile, Singapore saw a 33.2% increase in non-alcoholic sales across all demographics in 2023.
In line with the new generation of health-conscious consumers, FHA-Food & Beverage is proud to unveil a new Beverage Zone that showcases the latest trends and innovations in the beverage sector while providing attendees with a focused and comprehensive experience along with exciting new competitions, the “Zero Mixology Challenge” and “National Cocktail Challenge”. Building on the success of the ‘Fashion Drinks Competition’ by leading Food & Hospitality China, the “Zero Mixology Challenge” has been tailored to align with local preferences, trends, and market dynamics, which promotes product innovation and advance new consumption trends that resonate with today’s consumers.
Other new additions to the FHA Culinary competitions include the rolling out of the first individual segments of the competitions, divided into Individual Challenge Culinary and Individual Challenge Patisserie. The challenges will this year be judged by teams of esteemed panels led by Chief Judge Otto Weibel (SG). He will be supported by other chef judges like Rudolf Muller (SG/CH) Frank Wedmann, (DE), Sven Erik Renaa (NO), Clinton Zhu (CN), Chern Chee Hoong (MY), and Anderson Ho (SG). At the Chef’s Table leg of the competition, Andy Cuthbert, President of the World Association of Chefs Societies will also be sitting in as judge.
Unveiling the Future of F&B Trends
Unlock exclusive insights into the latest trends and breakthroughs in the F&B sector through two expertly curated seminars. The FHA Seminar will spotlight the future of food, covering trends, regulations, and innovations, while the Sustainable Food Future Seminar will address food security, sustainable packaging, and alternative proteins.
“We are thrilled to welcome everyone to FHA-Food & Beverage 2025 in Singapore, Asia’s premier international F&B exhibition. Over the years, this event has transformed into the leading global platform for the food industry, solidifying Singapore’s role as a dynamic culinary crossroads where global flavors converge with innovation. Now in its 47th year, FHA continues to be the must-attend business hub for global suppliers, offering unparalleled opportunities to connect with buyers across Asia and beyond, while staying ahead of shifting market trends and evolving consumer demands.” says Mr. Ian Roberts, Vice President, Informa Markets, Asia
Secure your free ticket to Asia’s leading international F&B event now at the official website https://fhafnb.com till 7 April 2025, 6pm (GMT+8). On-site fee of SGD90 applies after.
For press kit, kindly refer here: https://bit.ly/FHAfb25
Hashtag: #FHAFnB2025
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Informa Markets
Hospitality, Food & Beverage at Informa Markets
Informa Markets’ Hospitality, Food & Beverage portfolio includes a series of global in-person trade events and an online content platform Saladplate – aimed at fostering business relationships, enabling learning, and enhancing trade opportunities for the industry.
With several established events within the portfolio such as Hotelex Shanghai, Food&HotelAsia, HOFEX, Fispal Food Service, and Abastur, the portfolio together offers an unparalleled audience reach across the world. Staging 35 live and digital events in major cities including Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai, Bangkok, Sao Paulo, and Mexico City.
Working alongside established industry partners, government bodies, and recognised professionals, the portfolio aims at bringing companies, individuals, and the industry to the forefront of global business innovation by offering solutions and opportunities that meet today’s business needs.
About Informa Markets
FHA-Food & Beverage is organised by Informa Markets, a division of Informa plc. Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. We provide marketplace participants around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, targeted digital services, and actionable data solutions. We connect buyers and sellers across more than a dozen global verticals, including Pharmaceuticals, Food, Medical Technology, and Infrastructure. As the world’s leading market-making company, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days a year.
For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com.
Hong Kong Consumer Goods Trader Receives USD 1.7 Million Export Factoring Facility from Tradewind Finance

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2025 – Tradewind Finance, an international trade finance company, has successfully provided a USD 1.7 million export factoring facility to a Hong Kong-based consumer goods trader. The strategic facility has enabled the company to improve its cash flow and support its export operations to various international buyers, without the need for additional loans.
The trader, established nearly a decade ago, has built a strong customer base globally by offering high-quality products and exceptional customer service. However, challenges in managing working capital, particularly due to long payment cycles in global trade, had hindered its ability to meet client demands and sustain growth.
To overcome these obstacles, the company partnered with Tradewind, drawn to its strong reputation and on-the-ground support. The customized export factoring solution included a scalable facility along with credit protection, allowing the exporter to unlock cash flow tied up in its accounts receivable. This off-balance-sheet financing option not only enhanced the company’s financial flexibility but also supported its growth into new markets while ensuring financial stability.
“We are thrilled to become a trusted financial partner for this professional and experienced trader with our tailor-made trade finance solution. For traders who are looking for appropriate cash flow but lack fixed assets or collateral, Tradewind is your ideal choice. Our built-in credit insurance enables exporters to expand their international business with confidence,” said Dickson Au, Regional CEO – Far East, at Tradewind Hong Kong.
For more information about Tradewind’s financial solutions that enable businesses to grow, thrive, and conduct cross-border trade smoothly, please visit: https://www.tradewindfinance.com/
Hashtag: #Tradewind #tradefinance #finance #exportfactoring #financing #invoicediscounting #invoicefinancing
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Tradewind Finance
Founded in 2000, Tradewind Finance maintains a network of offices all over the world, including Bangladesh, Bulgaria, China, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary, India, Pakistan, Turkey, UAE, and the USA as well as the headquarters in Germany. Combining financing, credit protection, and collections into a single suite of trade finance products, Tradewind brings streamlined, flexible, and best-in-class services to the world’s exporters and importers.
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Unveils The Establishments Voted Onto The Extended 51 – 100 List For 2025
The 51-100 list: a snapshot
- The 51-100 list includes restaurants from 23 cities, 13 of which are new entries
- Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore and Seoul lead with six spots each on the extended list
- Seoul’s six placements include Soigné, this year’s highest new entrant on the extended list at No.57
- Farmlore in Bengaluru, the 2025 recipient of the American Express One To Watch Award, debuts at No.68
- Naar (No.66) in Kasauli and Inja, New Delhi (No.87) are the other new entrants from India, with the former being a new destination as well
- Among Hong Kong’s six places on the list are newcomers Testina (No.60) and Feuille (No.93)
- Ru Yuan (No.59) in Hangzhou and La Bourriche 133 (No.96) in Shanghai are new entries from Mainland China
- Tokyo claims four places with new entrant Harutaka at No.76
- Vientiane, Ubud, Hanoi and Penang debut as new destinations with Doi Ka Noi (No.86), Locavore NXT (No.92) Gia (No.97) and Au Jardin (No.100) respectively
William Drew, Director of Content at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, says: “Now in its fifth edition, we are delighted to unveil the 51-100 list, welcoming these outstanding establishments into this year’s 50 Best rankings. Since introducing this list, the Academy has highlighted numerous restaurants that exemplify the region’s incredible talent. This year’s 13 new restaurants and overall representation from 23 cities – including 10 new destinations – reflect the region’s dynamic and thriving gastronomic landscape.”
The 2025 list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants will be revealed at the awards ceremony held on 25 March 2025 in Seoul, in collaboration with host destination partner Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) and the Seoul Metropolitan Government. It will be livestreamed on 50 Best’s YouTube channel, beginning at 20:00 KST.
The full 51-100 list and press images can be found here.
Hashtag: #Asias50Best
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https://www.facebook.com/Asias50BestRestaurants
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Most Asian Stocks Drop as Trump Trade Policy Sows Uncertainty
Hong Kong, China
AFP-Asian equities mostly fell 5 March as investors fret over Donald Trump’s ever-changing trade policies amid increasing concern that his tariffs could send the US economy into recession.
Global markets have endured some severe volatility this month as the president looks to ramp up pressure on global partners by imposing or threatening hefty duties on their goods, citing huge trade imbalances.
In the latest move, sweeping 25 percent levies on all US aluminium and steel imports are due to come into effect at midnight in Washington 5 March, hitting numerous nations from Brazil to South Korea, as well as the European Union.
On 4 March, Trump threatened to double those on Canada after the province of Ontario imposed an electricity surcharge on three US states. The president called that off after Ontario halted the charge.
The on-off nature of the trade policies has fuelled uncertainty in markets, and has sent the VIX “fear index” of volatility to its highest level since August.
Traders appeared largely unmoved by Trump’s attempt to soothe worries over a recession after he warned at the weekend of “a period of transition” and refused to rule out a downturn.
On 4 March he said at the White House: “I don’t see it at all. I think this country’s going to boom, adding that markets “are going to go up and they’re going to go down. But you know what, we have to rebuild our country”.
But Nicole Inui at HSBC wrote in a note: “The back and forth on tariff announcements is playing havoc with consumer and business confidence: policy uncertainty is at a record high, consumer confidence dropped sharply and small business optimism has pared back.
“Consensus GDP forecasts were revised lower for the first time in eight months and market chatter about recession is creeping higher.”
After another selloff in New York that saw the Nasdaq extend Monday’s four percent dive, Asian traders were also in a dour mood.
Tokyo edged up with Seoul, Jakarta and Taipei.
But Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Wellington and Manila were in the red, with Sydney down more than one percent, on concerns about the impact of Trump’s latest tariffs on Australia’s economy.
Also in focus Wednesday is the release of key US consumer inflation data, which the Federal Reserve will keep a close eye on as it tries to determine monetary policy in light of the latest moves by Trump.
There is a fear that the tariffs, and plans to slash taxes, regulation and immigration will fan inflation again, forcing the bank to hold borrowing costs for longer or even hike them.
Meanwhile, analysts said high uncertainty in US markets at the moment was making other regions more attractive as investors look for a little more stability.
“For years, the US has been the undisputed leader of global markets, fuelled by aggressive fiscal spending, tech dominance, and a strong consumer,” said Charu Chanana, chief investment strategist at Saxo markets.
“But cracks are starting to show. Investors are increasingly looking overseas as concerns mount over US stock valuations, monetary policy, and economic uncertainty.”
© Agence France-Presse
Thailand Waives Re-Entry Fees for Lao, Cambodian, Myanmar Workers During Songkran
On 12 March, The Thai government announced a temporary exemption from re-entry fees for migrant workers from Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, allowing them to travel home for the Songkran–New Year– festival without additional costs.