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Thakhek’s Mekong Riverbank Protection Project Advances Toward Mid-2026 Completion

Authorities inspected the construction work on the Mekong riverbank protection project in Thakhek Khammouane Province Laos. (Photo by LSM Construction Co., Ltd)

A Mekong riverbank protection project in Thakhek, Khammouane Province is progressing toward completion, reaching over 60 percent completion, official reports

The project is a part of the Greater Mekong Subregion Corridor Towns Development Project Phase IV (GMS4). Aimed at improving urban infrastructure and strengthening economic connectivity along the Greater Mekong Subregion, the program is funded through a grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). 

Total project value stands at USD 54.06, with USD 48 million from ADB and an additional USD 6.06 million from the Lao Government. Under GMS4, corridors in Laos, including Thakhek district and Paksan district in Bolikhamxay Province, are receiving investments in urban infrastructure and riverbank protection.

Within Thakhek, approximately USD 20.94 million has been allocated for the riverbank protection works, supported by USD 2.84 million in Lao government counterpart funding.

Originally scheduled for implementation between 2019 and 2023, the project timeline has since been extended and is now expected to be completed by 30 June.

While most of the areas are at 70 percent completion, Viphaphone Inthilad, Deputy Department of Urban Planning, said global economic instability and rising fuel prices have created challenges for project implementation, making it difficult for contractors to maintain full construction capacity.

Beyond Riverbank Protection

In addition to strengthening the riverbank along the Mekong River, the program also includes several supporting infrastructure projects in the city.

These include the construction of a sanitary landfill facility, the development of urban drainage systems, and the installation of a wastewater treatment pond. Officials confirmed these components of the programme have already been completed.

At the same time, restoration and heritage conservation work in the old town area of Thakhek has reached 34 percent completion.

Authorities say the combined projects are intended to improve urban infrastructure, protect riverbank areas, and support long-term urban development in corridor towns across Laos.

GenScript Strengthens Transatlantic Biotech Infrastructure with European mRNA Hub

Strategic investment reinforces Europe as a core pillar of GenScript’s global R&D and production network, following recent U.S. facility expansion.

DELFT, Netherlands, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — GenScript announced the official opening of its first European mRNA production site in Delft, the Netherlands, marking a significant expansion of the company’s global mRNA platform and reinforcing Europe as a core pillar of its integrated R&D and production network.

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the European mRNA production site in Delft, the Netherlands
Ribbon cutting ceremony for the European mRNA production site in Delft, the Netherlands

The Delft facility strengthens GenScript’s transatlantic biotechnology infrastructure, enabling greater regional proximity, regulatory alignment, and supply chain resilience for European innovators developing next-generation therapies, vaccines, and advanced biologics.

“Having a local GenScript facility in the EU makes a real difference for us,” said Paula Río, PhD, Hematopoietic Innovative Therapies Unit, CIEMAT/CIBERER/FJD, UAM. “The closer proximity enables more seamless collaboration, faster turnaround times, and reduced shipping delays. Working with a team that’s fully aligned with EU regulations and standards strengthens the partnership and makes day‑to‑day interactions significantly easier.”

This ability to translate global capabilities into regionally embedded, customer‑ready infrastructure reflects GenScript’s broader platform strategy. As a U.S.-founded biotechnology company established in New Jersey more than two decades ago, GenScript continues to expand its innovation footprint across North America and Europe through disciplined, long-term investment in scalable platform infrastructure.

“Europe is not an outpost in our network; it is a core pillar of our global mRNA platform,” said Shawn Wu, President of GenScript EU Division. “By integrating Delft into our unified global operating system, we are delivering greater speed, regulatory alignment, and operational resilience for our partners, while maintaining one uncompromising global standard.”

A Platform Expansion; Not a Standalone Facility

Built within one of Europe’s strongest life science ecosystems, the Delft site provides end-to-end mRNA workflow capabilities, including:

  • Gene design and synthesis
  • Vector engineering
  • IVT mRNA production
  • Proprietary GenCap™ mRNA capping technology
  • UTR optimization and formulation support

The facility operates within GenScript’s AI-enabled digital operating model, supporting process consistency, accelerated turnaround times, and seamless integration with the company’s global R&D and manufacturing network.

By aligning with EU regulatory standards while remaining fully integrated into GenScript’s global quality systems, the site enables customers to move efficiently from research-grade mRNA to downstream development pathways across regions.

Integrated Global Continuity

The Delft opening follows GenScript’s continued expansion of its U.S. innovation footprint, including capacity growth at its New Jersey campus, and complements its broader global operations across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Together, these investments reflect GenScript’s coordinated strategy to build resilient, high-quality growth platforms that support life science innovation from early discovery through advanced development stages.

The company’s mRNA capabilities are part of a broader integrated biotechnology ecosystem from discovery to development to manufacturing; enabling to move from idea to impact within a unified global system.

Supporting Europe’s Innovation Momentum

GenScript established its European Division headquarters in the Netherlands in 2021 and has steadily expanded regional operations since then. The Delft mRNA site deepens that commitment by strengthening local access to advanced mRNA technologies while maintaining global scale.

“From our first conversations, GenScript has demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence,” said Cindy Gerhardt, Managing Director of Planet B.io. “We’ve built a valuable partnership driven by a shared ambition to accelerate biotech research and innovation. The opening of this state-of-the-art lab strengthens the position of the Biotech Campus Delft—not only for our own community, but for the broader European biotech ecosystem.”

“This expansion reflects disciplined execution of our global platform strategy,” said Sherry Shao, CEO of GenScript Biotech Corporation. “As a U.S.-founded company committed to advancing biotechnology worldwide, we continue to invest in resilient, regionally anchored infrastructure that supports innovation with speed, quality, and trust. At GenScript, ‘Scripting Possibilities’ means building the integrated global systems that allow science to move confidently from discovery to development, across regions, and at scale.”

Advancing the Future of mRNA Innovation

The Delft expansion represents one chapter in GenScript’s long-term strategy to build scalable, automation-driven biotechnology platforms worldwide; advancing scientific discovery through integrated, high-quality infrastructure designed for the future of therapeutic development.

About GenScript

Founded in 2002 in New Jersey, GenScript Biotech Corporation accelerates innovation in biotech and healthcare by providing researchers and companies with the building blocks needed to develop ground breaking treatments and products. As a cornerstone of the global life science ecosystem, GenScript actively collaborates with a diverse network of partners—from academic institutions to industry leaders—to co-create cutting-edge solutions that redefine service excellence. Guided by its mission to Make People and Nature Healthier Through Biotechnology, GenScript has become a trusted global partner with a team of 5,500+ employees, supporting over 200,000 customers across 100+ countries and regions, including the world’s Top 20 pharma companies.

Media Contact:
Melis Inceer, Head of Integrated Communications & Content
Melis.Inceer@genscript.com
+1 (628) 224-3831

 

Surforce Technology Group Achieves Major Breakthrough in Functional Nanofiber Nonwoven Materials

Technology Reaches International Advanced Level, Accelerating Global Market Expansion

QINGDAO, China, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from iQingdao: Recently, the “Low-Carbon Industrialized Complete Technology and Equipment for Functional Nanofiber Nonwoven Materials” independently developed by Surforce (Qingdao) Technology Group Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Surforce Technology Group”) has passed authoritative appraisal, with the overall technology reaching internationally advanced levels. This breakthrough not only resolves the worldwide challenge of electrospinning industrialization but also provides the global market with a fluorine-free, environmentally friendly PTFE alternative solution, leveraging the cost advantages brought by mass production.

Since its establishment in 2003, Surforce Technology Group has remained dedicated to the R&D and industrial application of advanced materials. Through years of technological accumulation, the company has built China’s first ten-million-meter-scale nanofiber factory, with an annual production capacity of 20 to 30 million meters.

Surforce Nanofiber Membrane
Surforce Nanofiber Membrane

In 2025, the Group received high-level national and industry recognition in this field: Won Second Prize for Scientific and Technological Progress from the China National Textile and Apparel Council; Awarded the “Top Ten Textile Technologies in China” achievement title; Selected for the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology’s 2025 Key Products and Processes “End-to-End” Application Plan and the Qingdao Municipal Science and Technology Bureau’s Key Technology Research Projects.

The Group’s core product, “Surforce Nanofiber Membrane,” features extremely large specific surface area, excellent mechanical properties, composite structural performance, and special physical and chemical characteristics. It can be produced using various raw materials and is widely applied in new energy, high-end filtration, consumer electronics, and textile sectors. The product serves as a separator material for semi-solid-state batteries, high-end filtration (high-temperature gas dust collection) material, and waterproof breathable material for consumer electronics. In the textile field, this product overcomes the limitations of traditional PTFE and TPU membranes in terms of breathability and elasticity, driving the extension of protective clothing into daily functional apparel. The company has already established partnerships with renowned domestic and international brands.

The Group places strong emphasis on R&D investment and intellectual property system development. It currently holds 25 authorized patents at home and abroad, has passed TÜV Rheinland certification, and obtained internationally authoritative certifications including ISO 9001, OEKO-TEX, and GRS.

In response to global opportunities in the new materials industry, the Group will continue to deepen its full-chain innovation system and promote the large-scale application of high-performance nanofiber materials. “We will remain technology-driven, committed to bringing Chinese nanomaterials to the world and providing global customers with cost-effective, environmentally friendly solutions,” said a senior executive of Surforce Technology Group.

About Surforce Technology Group:

Established in 2003, Surforce Technology Group is a leading Chinese manufacturer of functional nanomaterials, possessing a complete independent intellectual property system. The company is committed to providing global customers with high-performance, low-carbon, and environmentally friendly nanomaterial solutions.

Contact us:

https://www.surforce.cc/

eos@lerune.com

Bridge Data Centres Plans Major Investment with Global Partners to Strengthen Singapore’s Position as Asia Pacific’s Leading AI Hub

  • Strategic Investment of S$3-5 billion in Singapore to advance AI-ready data centre developments, supporting over 2 GW of AI-ready capacity globally, and driving technological innovation with international ecosystem partners.
  • First-mover advantage as one of Asia Pacific’s top three hyperscale data centre developers, with proven track record delivering large-scale campus developments in Malaysia, Thailand and India, supporting regional AI and cloud demand.
  • Pioneering sustainable energy solutions, including Singapore’s first floating hydrogen power generation model leveraging the nation’s strengths in maritime transport, port infrastructure and global energy supply chains and research into nuclear energy as a future clean power source for data centres.
  • Building an integrated innovation ecosystem in Singapore through partnerships with universities, research institutions and global technology companies, while supporting job creation and talent development initiatives for around 3,000 students and professionals.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – Bridge Data Centres (BDC), a Singapore-headquartered digital infrastructure platform backed by Bain Capital, has announced ambitious plans to invest S$3-5 billion in Singapore to advance next-generation digital infrastructure and strengthen the country’s position as a leading AI and cloud hub in Asia Pacific.

BDC had announced its new strategic brand identity in early 2026 that reflects the Company’s position of being a leading hyperscale and AI-infrastructure builder with a growing network of mega-campus developments in Asia Pacific. With close to a decade of experience developing high quality data centres, BDC’s new brand identity reflects BDC’s reputation as platform built on disciplined execution, certainty of delivery, and the ability to scale with customers.

As AI and high-density workloads accelerate across Asia Pacific, customers are looking for partners who can offer world-class capabilities and local agility, provide bespoke solutions at scale, and deliver and operate with a proven track record.

With Singapore serving as its global headquarters, BDC is uniquely positioned to support hyperscale customers and global technology companies seeking high-performance, sustainable and scalable data centre platforms across Asia Pacific, while enabling global technology companies to establish and expand their presence in Singapore as they develop AI and digital capabilities in the region.

Over the past decade, BDC has established itself as one of Asia Pacific’s leading digital infrastructure developers and operators. The Company currently operates and develops hyperscale campuses across Malaysia, Thailand and India.

Building on strong relationships with global hyperscale customers and ecosystem partners, BDC is on track to expand its regional capacity to approximately 2 GW by 2030.

By deepening its investments in Singapore, BDC aims to support customers seeking world-class digital infrastructure expertise, strong technology partnerships and integrated energy solutions that enable the sustainable growth of AI workloads.

First-mover advantage

BDC is among the first data centre developers to foray into Malaysia, where the Company has several large-scale data centre campuses – both operational and under development.

BDC’s flagship MY06 campus is the Company’s first project in Johor, as well as the state’s first hyperscale data centre development. In addition, BDC is the first data centre developer in Southeast Asia to adopt a build-to-suit (BTS) model for hyperscale data centre construction. BDC was also among the first hyperscale operators in the region to deploy advanced liquid cooling technologies at scale, including cold plate liquid cooling, to support high-density and AI-driven workloads. BDC’s suite of sustainability initiatives at MY06 enabled the facility to achieve an annualised Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of below 1.2.

BDC is also the first in Southeast Asia to incorporate Prefabricated, Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) construction, an innovative method that assembles large building sections off site. This enabled BDC to complete MY06 within eight months, which is 40 per cent faster than traditional methods, while reducing on-site dust, waste and noise. This strategy is one of BDC’s key competitive advantages to support the growing needs of hyperscale customers in the region, including Singapore, who need to rapidly scale to meet increasing demand for more capacity to power AI-workloads.

BDC has built Malaysia’s first large-scale Water Treatment Plant (WTP) to treat effluent and convert it into high grade effluent water to cool its upcoming 400MW campus in Ulu Tiram, Johor. The WTP applies advanced Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) and Reverse Osmosis (RO) technologies to deliver superior water recovery and quality. Since commencing operations in 2025, the WTP has been significantly reducing reliance on potable water. It further strengthens the long-term resilience of BDC’s operations and supports Johor’s broader environmental agenda.

The WTP has also attracted interest from regional public agencies. In 2025, BDC hosted a technical visit by representatives from PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, who were presented with an overview of the plant’s design and its use of advanced membrane technologies for sustainable water reuse in data centre operations.

BDC’s MY-06 Campus (Building 1) has achieved Singapore’s BCA Green Mark Platinum Award granted under the BCA-IMDA Green Mark International for Data Centres 2024 (GMDC: 2024) framework. The BCA Green Mark Award recognises developers, building owners and individuals who have made outstanding achievements in environmental sustainability in the built environment. BDC is the first data centre operator to achieve this recognition for a facility based outside of Singapore. Beyond project certification, BDC has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with BCA International (BCAI) to support the international adoption of Singapore’s Green Mark standards in global data centre developments. Through this partnership, BDC will promote Singapore’s sustainable building standards globally while reinforcing the country’s position as a leading AI and green digital infrastructure hub in the region.

These capabilities are aligned with Singapore’s Green Data Centre (DC) Roadmap, which emphasises energy efficiency, sustainable resource use and the integration of green energy to support the growth of digital infrastructure. BDC’s experience in delivering high-efficiency campuses positions it well to contribute to these objectives through practical, deployable solutions.

Pioneering energy solutions

As AI workloads drive the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure, energy resilience, data security and sustainability are becoming increasingly important. BDC is advancing a range of initiatives to explore alternative energy pathways and strengthen long-term power strategies.

A key collaboration is with Concord New Energy (CNE), where the partners are jointly developing Singapore’s first floating hydrogen power generation solution tailored for next-generation AI digital infrastructure, marking a significant milestone in advancing low-carbon energy pathways for the data centre sector.

BDC and CNE will also collaborate with Nanyang Technological University (NTU) to support the development of Singapore’s hydrogen ecosystem, accelerating research, engineering and the deployment of scalable clean energy technologies for digital infrastructure applications.

In addition, BDC is working with Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research Institute of High Performance Computing (A*STAR IHPC) and HY to evaluate the potential of nuclear energy as a long-term clean power source for data centres.

BDC’s alliance with A*STAR IHPC and HY will leverage advanced modelling and engineering expertise to explore innovative low-carbon energy pathways that will support Singapore’s sustainable digital growth while reinforcing the nation’s position as a trusted global technology hub.

BDC has also established partnerships with global leaders in energy and energy storage technologies, including CATL, EcoCeres, SK Innovation. Through these collaborations, the partners will jointly explore the establishment of innovation and research platforms to advance the development and pilot deployment of clean energy solutions such as hydrogen and biomass energy, as well as next-generation energy storage technologies designed for tropical climates. These initiatives aim to enhance thermal management, improve safety performance and increase the power density of data centre energy storage systems.

These collaborations and pilot initiatives will also contribute to talent development and workforce capability building in Singapore’s digital infrastructure and energy sectors. Through joint research programmes, technology pilots and knowledge exchange with universities, research institutions and industry partners, BDC aims to support the development of specialised expertise in areas such as advanced energy systems, sustainable data centre design, and next-generation cooling and energy storage technologies.

The initiatives are also expected to create high-value job opportunities in Singapore, spanning engineering, energy systems research, digital infrastructure operations and advanced technology development. By nurturing local talent and strengthening cross-disciplinary capabilities, these efforts will help build a robust talent pipeline to support Singapore’s growing AI and digital infrastructure ecosystem.

These partnerships represent a strategic step in BDC’s long-term roadmap to diversify power sourcing pathways, enhance energy security, and future-proof its Singapore data centre portfolio amid evolving grid constraints and decarbonisation dynamics. They also reinforce Singapore’s position as a regional hub for AI-ready digital infrastructure, while supporting the nation’s broader ambitions in sustainable energy innovation and green economic growth. Furthermore, these advancements accelerate Singapore’s ambition to achieve its net zero emissions goal by 2050.

Advancing technology and ecosystem growth

BDC is also pushing the envelope in innovative and sustainable cooling solutions through collaborations with ecosystem technology partners such as Vertiv, Terahop and Teracule, which are subsidiaries of Zhongji Innolight, as well as Delta Electronics and Supermicro.

Many of these partners are established leaders in data centre cooling, power systems and high-performance computing infrastructure, and are active participants in the broader AI infrastructure ecosystem, working closely with leading chipmakers to support next-generation compute environments.

Through its collaboration with Teracule and Terahop, the subsidiaries of Zhongji Innolight, BDC is exploring opportunities to jointly develop next-generation liquid cooling modules and high-performance optical connectivity solutions tailored for AI data centre environments. By combining Innolight’s expertise in optical modules and high-speed interconnect technologies with BDC’s experience in hyperscale data centre design and operations, the partners aim to advance integrated solutions that enhance thermal efficiency, data transmission performance and system reliability for high-density AI workloads.

The collaboration will also explore the establishment of joint research and development initiatives in Singapore, bringing together industry, academia and research institutions to support innovation in AI infrastructure technologies. Through this industry–academia-research collaboration model, the partners aim to accelerate the development and commercialisation of advanced cooling and connectivity technologies while contributing to Singapore’s broader push to strengthen research, talent development and innovation within the digital infrastructure ecosystem.

Together, these alliances focus on the development of advanced liquid cooling architectures, high-density GPU cooling solutions, and energy-optimised HVAC systems designed to support increasingly compute-intensive workloads. These technologies are critical in enabling the efficient operation of AI infrastructure, particularly as rack densities and thermal loads continue to rise in next-generation data centre environments.

Driving regional connectivity

As a Singapore-headquartered digital infrastructure platform, BDC continues to strengthen Singapore’s position as a regional hub for digital infrastructure and AI-driven innovation. With its highly developed connectivity ecosystem, robust regulatory environment and strong international network links, Singapore plays a central role in enabling the growth of the digital economy across Asia Pacific.

In this context, Singapore serves as one of the primary regional hubs, supporting high-value and latency-sensitive digital services such as edge computing deployments, international data traffic management and regional digital service platforms.

To support the burgeoning demand for AI and cloud computing across the region, complementary infrastructure resources across Asia Pacific can help provide additional capacity for compute-intensive workloads, including AI inference, machine learning and large-scale data processing. This cross-border model enables Singapore to remain the connectivity and innovation anchor of the ASEAN digital ecosystem, while regional infrastructure supports the scaling of digital capacity.

BDC’s collaborations with ecosystem partners, including major telecommunications companies and global technology firms, also help expand connectivity networks beyond Asia Pacific, further reinforcing Singapore’s role as a key regional interconnection hub.

One such ecosystem partner is Zenlayer, a leading global edge cloud and connectivity provider with a well-established customer base across Asia Pacific, North America and Europe. Through this partnership, BDC continues to strengthen its regional and international network connectivity anchored in Singapore.

This expanded network reach supports low-latency cross-border digital infrastructure integration, enabling hyperscalers to scale efficiently across markets while leveraging Singapore as one of the core regional gateways for digital services.

Catalysing Singapore’s AI-driven digital growth

Looking ahead, BDC will continue to leverage its operating model as a glocal platform, combining regional scale with deep local execution capabilities to expand across Asia Pacific. The Company’s strategy focuses on connecting key economic corridors, developing high-density, utility-integrated campuses, and working with ecosystem partners to align digital infrastructure growth with evolving energy pathways.

Anchored in Singapore as its strategic regional hub, BDC’s investments and partnerships contribute to the development of a robust digital infrastructure ecosystem that supports AI-driven workloads and cross-border connectivity.

BDC is also adopting an industry–academia–research collaboration mode, bringing together industry partners, universities and research institutes to accelerate innovation in AI infrastructure, advanced cooling technologies and sustainable energy systems. This integrated approach supports the development of new technologies while nurturing local talent and strengthening Singapore’s innovation ecosystem.

BDC’s initiatives in hydrogen, low-carbon power solutions and energy storage further contribute to the growth of Singapore’s green economy, catalysing investment in sustainable energy infrastructure and support the transition towards lower-carbon digital operations.

BDC’s efforts support the creation of high-value jobs and the development of specialised technical expertise in Singapore, spanning engineering, digital infrastructure and advanced energy systems. In addition, BDC will work with universities, research institutes and industry partners to support talent development initiatives, including internships, training programmes and collaborative research opportunities, contributing to the development of a strong local talent pipeline for Singapore’s AI and digital infrastructure ecosystem.

Collectively, these contributions reinforce Singapore’s position as a leading AI and digital infrastructure hub in Asia Pacific, underpinned by resilient, efficient and sustainable infrastructure.
Hashtag: #BridgeDataCentres #Singapore

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

Bridge Data Centres

Bridge Data Centres (BDC) is a Singapore-headquartered hyperscale data centre provider delivering high-performance, next-ready infrastructure across Asia Pacific. Backed by Bain Capital, BDC operates in Malaysia, Thailand, India, and other high-growth markets, with the capability to deliver up to 3 gigawatts (GW) of capacity globally by 2030 through partnerships with sister platforms in Europe and the United States.

ASIA’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS 2026 UNVEILS THIS YEAR’S EXTENDED 51-100 LIST

LONDON, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, has announced this year’s 51-100 list ahead of its live awards ceremony in Hong Kong. The extended list is voted for by the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, a panel of 350-plus influential industry leaders including restaurateurs, chefs, culinary professionals, food writers and critics from across the region.

Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, has unveiled the extended 51-100 list for 2026
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, has unveiled the extended 51–100 list for 2026

Notable insights from this year’s 51-100 list:

  • This year’s 51-100 list spans 27 cities – four more than last year – with 10 new cities represented in 2026. Of these, four are appearing on the list for the first time ever: Busan, Chengdu, Kanazawa and Nishikawa
  • 12 restaurants make their debut on the 51-100 list, reflecting the continued evolution and depth of Asia’s dining scene
  • Seoul leads all cities with seven restaurants, including new entry San (No.54), while Busan makes its debut in the ranking with Fiotto (No.99)
  • Five restaurants in Bangkok appear on the list, while Singapore and Hong Kong each claim four, with all three destinations welcoming a re-entry
  • Tokyo records three restaurants on the extended list, including new entry Sushi Shunji (No.63), while Kanazawa welcomes two new entries – Kataori (No.82) and Respiración (No.92)
  • Nishikawa also celebrates the debut of Dewaya (No.93), underscoring the diversity of culinary excellence across multiple Japanese cities
  • Chef 1996 in Beijing is the highest-ranked new entry at No.52, while Chengdu joins the extended list for the first time with Co- (No.69)
  • Kuala Lumpur’s Dewakan (No.62) achieves the highest rise on the 51-100 list, climbing 22 places from its previous ranking

For the full 51-100 list, click here.

A spokesperson for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants says: “We are delighted to unveil this year’s 51-100 list, welcoming more outstanding establishments into this year’s extended ranking. The 51-100 list once again highlights the incredibly diverse and thriving culinary scene of the region, this year including restaurants from 27 cities, with 12 restaurants represented on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list for the first time.”

The 2026 list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants will be revealed at the awards ceremony held on 25 March 2026 in Hong Kong, in collaboration with host destination partner Hong Kong Tourism Board. The ceremony will be streamed live on the 50 Best YouTube channel, beginning at 20:00 Hong Kong time.

Media centre:
https://mediacentre.theworlds50best.com

 

 

Pro Results. Weekend Project. VEVOR’s Two-Step Spring Upgrade

HOUSTON, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Spring is the season of renewal—and VEVOR is helping homeowners bring that renewal home. With the opening of its first global flagship store in Houston, the home improvement brand is showcasing how its solutions—like the Gas Pressure Washer and Airless Paint Sprayer—can deliver professional-quality results in just a single weekend. From washing away years of dirt and grime to applying a fresh coat of paint, VEVOR demonstrates that transforming your home this spring can be simple, effective, and within reach for every home creator.

Wash Away Years of Wear

Robert, a Florida homeowner, recently put the VEVORGas Pressure Washer to the test. In just half a day, he transformed his driveway and patio. Years of dirt, moss, and oil stains? Gone—revealing surfaces that looked freshly installed.

VEVORGas Pressure Washer
VEVORGas Pressure Washer

“Neighbors kept asking if we repaved the driveway,” Robert laughs. “All we did was clean it.”

With many U.S. homes boasting expansive yards, corded electric washers often fall short. VEVOR’s gas-powered model, equipped with a robust 390cc engine, lets you clean anywhere—no outlet required. Five quick-connect nozzles (0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, and soap) handle everything from intense blasting to gentle rinsing.

A 50-foot durable hose, puncture-resistant water tank, and onboard storage for all accessories make setup effortless. Combined with a reinforced steel frame and 10-inch never-flat wheels, this machine delivers pro-level performance with ultimate convenience.

Refresh and Reimagine

Cleaning is just the first step. Robert’s neighbors, the Thompsons, went further: after washing their vinyl siding and letting it dry, they used the VEVOR Airless Paint Sprayer to apply a fresh coat of paint. The result? A house that looks brand-new — achieved with pro-level performance, without the premium price of traditional pro-grade tools.

VEVOR Airless Paint Sprayer
VEVOR Airless Paint Sprayer

“Cleaning is the unmasking, painting is the glow-up,” Mrs. Thompson jokes. “Neighbors thought we brought in pros—but it was just the two of us over a weekend. Cost under $200, and our realtor estimates it added at least $15,000 in value.

Powered by a 650W motor and 3000 PSI pressure, the VEVOR sprayer didn’t just speed up the job—it produced a smooth, even coat up to five times faster than a roller. “We saved not just on labor costs, but an entire weekend of work,” Mrs. Thompson added.

A cart-style base and extension wand allow effortless reach, while the flexible suction tube draws paint directly from 1–5 gallon buckets. Durable all-metal construction and professional-grade hoses ensure long-term, reliable performance—all at a fraction of the cost of professional equipment.

VEVOR for Home Creators

“VEVOR exists to redefine what’s possible for homeowners,” says Gavin Wu, VEVOR Brand Director. “Our mission is to put professional-grade tools within reach of every home creator, so anyone can confidently tackle projects that once required skilled tradespeople. We believe that upgrading, refreshing, and transforming your home should be empowering, accessible, and enjoyable—and with the right tools, remarkable results are no longer reserved for the pros.”

Experience it for yourself at VEVOR’s new flagship store in Houston, located at 10951 Farm to Market 1960 Road W, or browse the full range of products online at vevor.com and on Amazon. Explore hands-on demonstrations, discover versatile tools, and see just how simple it can be to bring your home back to life this spring. 

About VEVOR

VEVOR is a home improvement brand that empowers Home Creators to upgrade spaces with pro-level products at exceptional value. From backyard makeovers to apartment innovations, we deliver superior performance through practical technological innovation that combines purposeful technology with the hands-on joy of creation.

Today, VEVOR operates in over 50 countries, supported by a network of 200+ global warehouses and a catalog of more than 1,500 SKUs spanning tools, outdoor equipment, and home improvement solutions. VEVOR has supported over 30 million Home Creators worldwide, bringing performance, inspiration, and value to their home improvement projects.

For more information, visit www.vevor.com or search “vevor” on Amazon.

Contact: Qi Feng, qi.feng@vevor.net

Laos Adopts Global Product Standards, Opening Door for Laos Exports

Laos has officially adopted GS1 international standards, joining more than 120 economies on the global trade map, and Lao Brewery Company is the first in line. (Photo supplies)

Laos has taken a step toward strengthening its global trade competitiveness with the official adoption of GS1 international standards, the same globally recognized product identification system used across more than 120 economies

On 26 February, the country adopted the international standards and Lao Brewery Company (LBC) became the first business in the country to receive an official Lao barcode under the new framework.

GS1 standards are widely used around the world to improve product identification, traceability, and supply chain visibility. 

To the average consumer, a barcode is background noise. But in international trade, it functions as a passport. It tells supply chains, retailers, and customs systems exactly where a product comes from and that it meets a recognized standard. 

For years, the absence of such a system had been a quiet obstacle for Lao goods moving into regional markets, not because of quality, but because of how they were identified.

As one of the country’s largest manufacturers and exporters, LBC’s early registration reflects the operational discipline that global markets demand. Henrik Juel Andersen, Managing Director of LBC, noted that the milestone reflects the company’s “long-standing commitment to building systems and capabilities that support both our growth and the broader development of Lao commerce.” 

By stepping forward first, LBC sets a clear benchmark for producers across industries to follow.

The significance runs deeper than a single registration. 

Modern supply chains require traceability and digital transparency as baseline expectations, and Laos, with growing export ambitions across ASEAN and beyond, now has the infrastructure to meet them. What was once a quiet gap in the country’s commercial foundation has been filled.

As Laos continues to expand its participation in the global economy, the adoption of international systems such as GS1 is expected to support greater consumer trust, improved supply chain management, and stronger export competitiveness for products made in Laos.

Seoul Restaurant San Named One To Watch By Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026

The new French-influenced, modern Korean fine-dining spot in Gangnam demonstrates exceptional culinary talent and potential for future glory


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – Restaurant San, Seoul’s most outstanding new fine-dining restaurant, has been named the winner of the One To Watch Award 2026 by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna. The award singles out a restaurant which has recently started making a big impact and has the potential to secure a spot in the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list in the coming years.

San’s nomination comes just over a year since opening in 2024 to widespread admiration in the South Korean capital. Located in the fashionable Gangnam district, San is acclaimed for its refined, French-influenced, modern Korean tasting menu conceived by chef Jo Seung-Hyun.

Chef Jo brings exceptional credentials to the venture, having honed his culinary skills at three distinguished restaurants – starting under the tutelage of Thomas Keller at The French Laundry in Napa Valley and La Maison Troisgros in France, before going on to helm the kitchen at Korean-American celebrity chef Corey Lee’s fine-dining restaurant Benu in San Francisco. After eight years as chef de cuisine at Benu, he finally returned home to Seoul to realise his dream of opening San. The sophisticated tasting menu explores a vibrant range of seasonal dishes presenting his creative interpretation of classical French cuisine with a Korean twist.

A spokesperson for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants says: “San has quickly become one of the most talked-about fine-dining restaurants in Seoul. With richly deserved recognition as the winner of One To Watch Award, the team is raising the bar for culinary excellence, complexity and respect for national tradition – following an inspiring trend of innovative restaurants to emerge from the capital in recent years.”

On winning the One To Watch Award 2026, Chef Jo says, “I’m incredibly grateful and honoured for San to receive the One To Watch Award. San is still a young restaurant and to be recognised in this way so soon after opening means a great deal to us. Thank you to Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants for this encouragement.”

Showcasing Korean flavours through refined technique, Chef Jo’s cuisine focuses on familiar dishes reimagined with depth and precision. Signature creations include a prawn dish paired with a shrimp-gochujang crafted from a deeply concentrated broth extracted from shrimp heads, delivering intense umami, and a reinterpretation of ojingeo sukhoe, a classic Korean poached squid, using delicately prepared spear squid accompanied by squid-ink chojang. Drawing from his childhood memories growing up in Busan, Chef Jo also presents a refined interpretation of dwaeji-gukbap, traditionally enjoyed with salted shrimp but finished with caviar, offering a sense of familiarity while introducing an unexpected modern expression of Korean cuisine.

Beyond these innovations, signature dishes paying homage to iconic tradition include chamoe dongchimi, a water kimchi twist on Korea’s national dish. The wine pairing, led by Ju Jaemin, meanwhile enhances the dining experience at San. Guests can choose between a five or eight-glass pairing, with each wine meticulously selected to complement the multi-layered dishes.

San is the first restaurant from Seoul to win the award since 2017. Recent winners include Farmlore in Bengaluru (2025), a celebration of hyper‑local Indian ingredients; Lamdre in Beijing (2024), a sustainability focused restaurant inspired by Tibetan philosophy; and August in Jakarta (2023), which reinterprets Indonesian flavours through modern fine‑dining techniques.

The One To Watch Award is the final of three pre-announced awards ahead of the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 awards ceremony, which will announce the region’s premier restaurants. The ceremony is being held for the first time in Hong Kong at the Kerry Hotel on 25 March 2026. The awards ceremony will also be streamed live on the 50 Best YouTube channel via the link here, beginning at 20:00 Hong Kong time.

50 Best works with professional services consultancy Deloitte as its official independent adjudication partner to help protect the integrity and authenticity of the voting process and the resulting list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026. See more details on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants voting process here.

How the voting works

The list is compiled by votes from the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, an influential group of more than 350 leaders in the restaurant industry across Asia, each selected for their expert opinion of Asia’s restaurant scene. The Academy is divided into seven regions: India & Subcontinent; South-East Asia – South; South-East Asia – North; Hong Kong, Taiwan & Macau; Mainland China; Korea; and Japan. Each voter casts ten votes based on their best restaurant experiences of the previous 18 months, with at least four of these from outside their home country/SAR. Voters are required to remain anonymous and voting is confidential, secure and independently adjudicated by professional services consultancy Deloitte.

About the host destination partner: Hong Kong Tourism Board

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a government-subvented body tasked with maximizing the contribution of tourism to Hong Kong’s economy and upholding Hong Kong as a world-class travel destination. The HKTB works in partnership with relevant government departments and organisations, the travel-related sectors, and other entities related to tourism, to market and promote Hong Kong worldwide, while enhancing visitors’ experiences through providing diverse and high-quality tourism products and services. The HKTB has a worldwide network of 15 offices and has representatives in seven different markets.

About the main partner: S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna

S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna are the main sponsors of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna are the leading natural mineral waters in the fine dining world. Together they interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of excellence, pleasure and well-being.

Our Partners:

  • Hong Kong Tourism Board – Official Host Destination Partner
  • S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna – Main Partner & Official Water Partner; sponsor of The Best Restaurant in Asia
  • Inedit Damm – Official Beer Partner; sponsor of the Inedit Damm Chefs’ Choice Award
  • SevenRooms – Official Booking Platform Partner; sponsor of the SevenRooms Icon Award
  • Doordash – Official Delivery Partner
  • Aspire Lifestyles – Official Concierge Partner
  • Lee Kum Kee – Official Sauces & Condiments Partner; sponsor of Highest Climber Award
  • Valrhona – Official Chocolate Partner; sponsor of Asia’s Best Pastry Chef Award
  • Vik – Official Wine Partner; sponsor of Asia’s Best Sommelier Award
  • Nongshim Shinramyun – Official Partner; sponsor of The Best Restaurant in South Korea
  • Maison Kaviari – Official Caviar Partner
  • Dassai – Official Sake Partner
  • Langjiu – Official Baijiu Partner
  • Woodford Reserve – Official American Whiskey Partner
  • Cinco Jotas – Official Iberico Ham Partner
  • Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong – Official Hotel Venue Partner
  • The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel – Official Hotel Venue Partner
  • Grand Hyatt Hong Kong – Official Hotel Venue Partner
  • The Peninsula Hong Kong – Official Hotel Venue Partner
  • Pier 1929 – Official Venue Partner

Hashtag: #Asia’s50BestRestaurants





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