23 C
Vientiane
Monday, April 28, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 70

Century Huatong’s Digiloong GAIC Opens for Entries, Spotlighting AI in Game Development

SHANGHAI, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On April 2, 2025, the Digiloong Cup Global AI Game and Application Innovation Competition (“Digiloong GAIC”) officially kicked off. Led by Shanghai-listed Century Huatong, the competition is held under the guidance of the Games Publishing Committee of the China Audio-video and Digital Publishing Association (CADPA), alongside the Pudong New Area Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, and the Shanghai Online Game Association (OGA). The event is co-branded with several key partners, including The Paper, Lighthouse Capital, and Eastern Bell Capital. With the official website (https://aicht.sjhuatong.com/) now live, developers worldwide are invited to log in and submit their entries through June 18th.

The competition aims to achieve a dual breakthrough in AI technology for both game development and broader industry applications. It is focused on deeply integrating AI throughout the entire game development pipeline while simultaneously expanding its use across a range of real-world scenarios. The goal is to accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies in both interactive entertainment and traditional industries. The competition is organized into five phases:

Phase 1: Registration and Entry Submission (April 2nd – June 18th)
Phase 2: Preliminary Selection (June 19th – July 1st), during which qualified entries advance to the next stage
Phase3: Semi-Finalist Selection (July 2nd -mid-July), where a panel of industry experts serving as judges will evaluate and score the shortlisted projects before announcing the finalists
Phase4: On-site Finalist Evaluation (the end of July), featuring live Q&A with the judges
Phase5: Grand Finale & Awards Ceremony (August 1st), a high-profile event at the 2025 ChinaJoy AIGC conference recognizing both judges and participating industry leaders.

The competition features a cross-disciplinary, authoritative jury as part of its evaluation process. Confirmed experts include Tang Jiajun, Deputy Secretary General of CADPA and Secretary General of the Games Publishing Committee; Jim Wang, Chairman of Century Huatong; Wang Jianhua, Secretary General of OGA; Derek Fang, Chief Strategy Officer of Century Huatong; Zhang Zhaogong, Associate Professor at the Communication University of China and Director of the Game Design Department; Lin Koon Wing, Mac, Director of the Computer Graphics and Power Consumption Laboratory at the Huawei Hong Kong Research Center (recommended by ChinaJoy); Sun Hui, CTO of The Paper; Vita Gu, Partner at Eastern Bell Capital; Xinxin Huang, Senior Director of the Incubation Business at Lighthouse Capital; Liang Jianming, Risk Control Partner at Shanghai Xiaomiao Longcheng Investment Management (recommended by the Shanghai University Student Technology Entrepreneurship Foundation). Additionally, senior executives from leading companies, professors from top universities, and senior fellows from research institutes will also contribute, including Mike Zhang, Manager of Century Huatong’s Shengqu Games Technology Center, and Wu Shiqian, Head of the Shengqu Games Planning Center. The jury will conduct a comprehensive evaluation based on technical innovation, commercial potential, and feasibility, with more industry leaders expected to join. 

The competition offers a 600,000 yuan prize pool, covering 15 awards across six categories, including game innovation, technology application, content design, music presentation, and visual expression. In addition, the organizing committee will host a series of themed salons, online Q&A sessions and other activities throughout the competition to encourage collaboration among developers, businesses, investors, and other stakeholders. Key initiatives focused on visibility, venture support, and access to computing power are intended to accelerate the commercialization and real-world deployment of the most promising projects. Century Huatong’s Shengqu Capital, alongside prominent domestic venture capital firms Lighthouse Capital and Eastern Bell Capital, will offer follow-up support as a capital incubator, helping winning teams scale and solidify their projects.

In his address at the Digiloong GAIC lauch ceremony, Mr. Wang, Chairman of Century Huatong, emphasized, “The game industry’s technological sophistication and capacity for creative transformation make it an ideal proving ground for AI. We hope Digiloong GAIC will act as a bridge connecting technology developers, businesses, investors, and users, expediting AI’s transition from the lab to real-world deployment.”

The official launch of this year’s Digiloong GAIC marks a strategic step forward for Century Huatong in the AI space. By integrating resources, opening up platforms, and cultivating talent, the competition aims to serve as a catalyst for incorporating AI technology into industrial processes and workflows, bringing a fresh perspective  from some of China’s leading players to the global AI innovation ecosystem. Throughout the event, Century Huatong’s media network—including its official platform, 2602TV, and Digiloong AI—will collaborate with major media outlets to deliver ongoing, wide-ranging coverage, aiming to offer a distinctive perspective on the global AI landscape.

CONTACT: lixiaorang.lois@digiloong.com

Starry Nights Await: Agoda’s Guide to Asia’s Top Stargazing Destinations

SINGAPORE, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda is inviting travelers to reach for the stars with its curated list of Asia’s most dazzling stargazing destinations. With celestial events like the Lyrid meteor shower (peaking April 22-23), the Eta Aquarids (May 5-6), and the Strawberry Moon (June 3), the night skies are putting on a show to remember this season.

From volcanic islands to serene highlands, Agoda has handpicked the perfect spots across Asia that promise a celestial experience that’s out of this world.

1.       Jeju, South Korea

Jeju’s Hallasan National Park is a stargazer’s dream, offering crystal-clear skies and minimal light pollution. The volcanic island’s serene landscapes make it an ideal spot for camping under the stars. Guided stargazing tours are available to ensure travelers don’t miss a single shooting star. Beyond stargazing, Jeju offers breathtaking natural attractions like the Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) and the Manjanggul Lava Tube, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

2.       Fujikawaguchiko, Japan

Nestled at the base of Mount Fuji, Fujikawaguchiko offers breathtaking views of the night sky. The area’s observatories and stargazing events make it a hotspot for astronomy enthusiasts. On clear nights, the Milky Way feels close enough to touch. During the day, visitors can explore the iconic Chureito Pagoda, take a leisurely boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi, or enjoy the region’s onsens (hot springs) to unwind after a night of stargazing.

3.       Dalat, Vietnam

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Dalat’s cool climate and high altitude provide perfect conditions for stargazing. The Langbiang Plateau is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering panoramic views of the constellations. Dalat’s charm extends beyond the stars, with its French colonial architecture, vibrant flower gardens, and the serene Tuyen Lam Lake. Adventure seekers can also enjoy canyoning and trekking in the surrounding hills.

4.       Nantou, Taiwan

Home to Hehuanshan, one of Taiwan’s highest peaks, Nantou is a stargazing haven. The area’s low light pollution and high elevation make it a prime location for spotting constellations and even the occasional meteor shower. Visitors can also explore Sun Moon Lake, a picturesque destination perfect for cycling and boating, as well as Nantou’s charming tea plantations.

5.       Khao Yai, Thailand

Khao Yai National Park is not just for wildlife enthusiasts—it’s also a stargazing paradise. The park’s remote location ensures dark skies, perfect for catching a glimpse of the Milky Way. During the day, visitors can explore the park’s waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, including elephants and gibbons. Nearby vineyards and farm-to-table restaurants make Khao Yai a well-rounded destination for nature and food lovers alike.

6.       Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Famous for its tea plantations, Cameron Highlands also offers some of the best stargazing in Malaysia. The cool, clear nights are perfect for spotting constellations. Visitors can also enjoy strawberry picking, exploring mossy forests, and visiting the region’s vibrant markets. The highlands’ colonial-style accommodations add a touch of charm to any stay.

7.       Palawan, Philippines

Palawan’s remote beaches provide an unparalleled stargazing experience. With little to no light pollution, the night sky comes alive with stars. El Nido and Coron are particularly popular for their breathtaking celestial views. By day, travelers can explore Palawan’s limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. The island’s laid-back vibe and fresh seafood make it a must-visit destination.

8.       Lombok, Indonesia

Lombok’s Mount Rinjani is a favorite among stargazers, offering a unique vantage point for observing the night sky. The island’s clear skies and tranquil environment make it an ideal spot for watching meteor showers or simply marveling at the constellations. Beyond stargazing, Lombok boasts pristine beaches, traditional Sasak villages, and the stunning Gili Islands, perfect for snorkeling and diving.

9.       Coorg, India

Known for its coffee plantations, Coorg also offers some of the darkest skies in India, making it a haven for stargazing enthusiasts. The region’s high altitude and clear nights provide an excellent opportunity to spot constellations and meteor showers like the Lyrids. During the day, visitors can explore Coorg’s lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda said, “Whether you’re chasing meteor showers or just looking for a quiet night under the cosmos, these destinations across Asia offer something truly magical. And with Agoda’s great deals on accommodations, flights and activities, your stargazing adventure is just a click away.”

With over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, Agoda makes it easy to plan your next celestial escape. Visit Agoda.com or download the Agoda mobile app for the best deals.

 

Marie Kondo Uncovers New Joy Through Travel with Klook

The Netflix star rediscovers what sparks joy through immersive experiences, proving transformation isn’t found in a drawer—it’s found on the road.

SINGAPORE, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Marie Kondo built a global empire by helping millions let go of what no longer sparked joy for them. But in a refreshing turn of events, Kondo has found a new path to joy—not through perfectly folded clothes, but through travel. In a new global campaign with Klook, a leading platform for experiences and travel services in Asia, Kondo trades structure for spontaneity, embarking on a deeply personal journey of rediscovery.

In Klook's new global The Best You campaign, Marie Kondo trades structure for spontaneity, embarking on a deeply personal journey of rediscovery
In Klook’s new global The Best You campaign, Marie Kondo trades structure for spontaneity, embarking on a deeply personal journey of rediscovery

Aptly titled The Best You, the campaign reframes travel as more than a getaway—it’s a gateway to becoming the version of yourself you didn’t know you were looking for. “My system for tidying took the world by storm, but things had to change as I needed to focus on my family,” said Kondo. “I’m coming back to where it all started, to discover what can spark joy in this new phase of my life. I want to always be open to new experiences, to never stop searching for things that touch my heart,” she added.

From Bucket Lists to Better Selves

According to Klook’s latest Travel Pulse study, 1 in 2 Millennial and Gen Z travelers are driven by the desire for personal transformation. They’re not just looking for picture-perfect getaways, but real experiences that spark joy, clarity, and wonder. And the best way to do that, according to nearly 1 in 5 travelers, is to embark on a nature retreat or take a short weekend getaway to chase meaningful moments beyond the miles.

“We’ve always believed experiences offer more than just activities—they’re a way to see yourself differently. When the world feels unpredictable, people look for moments that bring them back to who they are. The Best You is our invitation to rediscover joy, connection, and personal growth through the simple power of travel and shared experiences,” said Marcus Yong, Vice President, Global Marketing at Klook.

Travel, whether near or far, offers a chance for renewal, with 48% of travelers reportedly feeling fully recharged after taking a trip. From local escapes to far-flung adventures, The Best You is delivering transformative experiences that foster personal growth to bring you closer to who you want to become.

Here’s To Manifesting The Best Version of Yourself

Whether it’s finding your playful side at a theme park, embracing stillness on a scenic train ride, or trying something new with loved ones, The Best You is about discovering experiences that bring you closer to who you want to be.

To help travelers kickstart their journey to the best version of themselves, Klook has created an interactive online quiz—part personality decoder, part choose-your-own-adventure. Every journey starts with a choice, and through a series of intuitive, story-led decisions, travelers uncover one of eight distinct travel personalities that reflect their unique travel aura. More than just a label, each persona unlocks curated experiences designed to help bring your best self to life, wherever the journey takes you.

Walk in Marie Kondo’s Footsteps in Japan

And if Japan is on your list, you can even follow in Marie Kondo’s footsteps with a curated itinerary that includes: channeling your inner samurai to find balance and focus, learning to see beauty beyond imperfection in a kintsugi workshop, and letting loose in a one-of-a-kind robot dance session.

Ready to find the best you? Take the quiz and start your journey today at ExperienceTheBestYou.com

Get inspired: watch The Best You short film now.


Take the leap, go beyond the ordinary, and discover The Best You with Klook at ExperienceTheBestYou.com

About Klook

Klook is a leading platform for experiences and travel services in Asia. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays, in over 2,700 destinations globally. Founded in 2014, we are here to inspire and enable more moments of joy for travelers anytime, anywhere.

For media enquiries, please contact:
press@klook.com

Taiwan Travel Fair Returns to Singapore’s Marina Square Inviting Singaporean Travellers to Take a Sip of ‘Magical’ Taiwan

SINGAPORE, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — To tap into Singapore’s peak outbound travel season during the summer vacation, the Taiwan Tourism Administration has partnered with 31 organisations, including airlines, hotels, leisure farms, amusement parks, and tourism associations, along with seven major travel agencies—ASA Holiday, Chan Brothers Travel, CTC Travel, EU Holidays, Hong Thai Travel, Nam Ho Travel, and WTS Travel—to host the Taiwan Travel Fair from April 25th to 27th at Marina Square. The event will showcase Taiwan’s latest and most unique travel attractions, including forest railways, island beaches, family-friendly theme parks, and leisure farms, encouraging Singaporean travellers to discover new ways to explore Taiwan year-round.

Taiwan Travel Fair 25-27 Apr 2025
Taiwan Travel Fair 25-27 Apr 2025

Building on the positive reception from the past three years, Taiwan Travel Fair has received enthusiastic feedback, drawing tens of thousands of local visitors each time. This year’s Taiwan Travel Fair brings even more exciting news—a special bonus offer under the “Taiwan the Lucky Land” campaign. In addition to the existing prizes, exclusive additional rewards have been introduced for Singaporean travellers: by registering their trip 1 to 7 days before arriving in Taiwan, they have a chance to win NT$5,000! With Taiwan’s well-developed transportation system, visitors can easily travel around using the “TAIWAN PASS,” which integrates Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR), Railway, MRT systems, Tour Buses, Tourist Shuttle services, and take advantage of special “buy-one-get-one-free” HSR ticket offers, making travel across Taiwan more convenient than ever.

This year’s fair theme, “Take a Sip of Taiwan,” highlights the vibrant colours of Taiwan’s tourism branding 3.0 campaign. The Taiwan Travel Fair will offer lively and interactive experiences, including a refreshing “Magical Layered Gelidium Jelly Drink,” a uniquely Taiwanese summer treat, and freshly baked “Taiwanese Eggie Cake.” Visitors who complete a survey at the fair can enjoy these popular snacks and beverages, filling Marina Square with the delightful aromas of Taiwan.

During the three-day event, the renowned Taiwanese circus troupe Eye Catching Circus will present live performances titled “Island Passages” blending acrobatics, juggling, dance, and theatre to bring Taiwan’s ecology, culture, cuisine, and lifestyle vividly to life, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for Singaporean audiences. Additionally, the fair will feature DIY workshops where visitors can paint beer glasses and craft leather OhBear cardholders, offering a fun, hands-on way to learn about Taiwan’s unique travel experiences—perfect for family travellers.

Following the fair, over 100 tourism industry representatives from Taiwan and Singapore will participate in a B2B Taiwan Tourism Workshop on April 28th at Hilton Orchard Singapore. The workshop will share Taiwan’s latest tourism updates and promotional offers, provide one-on-one business matchmaking opportunities, and feature a lucky draw for SingaporeTaiwan round-trip flight tickets to encourage Singaporean partners to visit Taiwan and develop new travel packages. This collaborative effort aims to boost visitor numbers from Singapore to Taiwan, reaching new peaks in 2025.

With rich tourism resources, language convenience, frequent flights, delicious cuisine, unforgettable street food and friendly people, Taiwan remains a top choice for Singaporean travellers to visit again and again. In addition to the Taiwan Travel Fair campaign at Marina Square, Singapore’s MRT, buses, and taxis will showcase Taiwan’s stunning scenery and culinary delights with eye-catching display ads. The Taiwan Tourism Administration warmly invites Singaporean friends to visit the Taiwan Travel Fair from April 25th to 27th, to experience Taiwan’s flavours, sights and sounds firsthand, discover new ways to enjoy Taiwan, and seize the moment to book their trips with participating travel agencies and receive exclusive gifts. Let’s have a drink, grab a deal, and enjoy a joyful and relaxing weekend together at the Taiwan Travel Fair!

Event Information
2025 Taiwan Travel Fair
Date: April 25th (Fri) – April 27th (Sun), 2025
Time: 11:00 AM7:00 PM
Venue: Central Atrium, Marina Square
Target Audience: Free admission to General Public

2025 Taiwan Tourism Workshop
Date: April 28th (Mon), 2025
Time: 1:25 PM4:30 PM
Venue: Hilton Orchard Singapore
Target Audience: Taiwan and Singapore travel industry professionals (Invited only)

Emaar Contributed Over US$ 1 Billion to Elevate Dubai’s Global Brand and Visitor Experience

  • Continued Annual Contributions of Over US$ 50 Million to Sustain and Modernise Globally Renowned Events and Attractions
  • Strong Focus on Local Community Impact Through Community Initiatives and Sponsorships

DUBAI, UAE, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Emaar, the master developer behind Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, has invested over US$ 1 billion in shaping and enhancing the city’s global identity. This cumulative contribution underscores the company’s long-standing commitment to reinforcing Dubai’s international standing through cutting-edge experiences, vibrant cultural platforms, and landmark social infrastructure.

Emaar’s US$ 1 billion contribution to shaping Dubai’s global identity and visitor experience
Emaar’s US$ 1 billion contribution to shaping Dubai’s global identity and visitor experience

From creating and operating Dubai Fountain—the world’s largest choreographed fountain—and producing the internationally acclaimed New Year’s Eve celebrations at Burj Khalifa, to enabling the launch and continued success of Dubai Opera as the region’s cultural epicentre, Emaar has consistently raised the bar in enriching Dubai’s urban and cultural fabric.

These signature experiences are sustained and enhanced through ongoing annual investments exceeding US$ 50 million, covering not only the operation and maintenance of key attractions, but also the evolution of immersive technologies and entertainment formats. This includes the modernisation of Burj Khalifa’s façade with next-generation lighting and projection systems, enabling captivating narratives that reach millions of viewers globally.

In addition to its physical contributions, Emaar continues to champion inclusive growth and community wellbeing. Through the Emaar Foundation, the company supports a wide range of local causes—from charitable housing and development programmes to national sports and cultural sponsorships—demonstrating its integral role in nurturing both city and society.

“Emaar’s journey has always been rooted in a vision that transcends construction—it is about crafting experiences that inspire, unite, and leave a lasting impact,” said Mr. Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar. “Our investments are a testament to our belief in Dubai’s limitless potential, and we are proud to play a key role in defining its global narrative.”

Emaar’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and community empowerment continues to drive progress, shaping Dubai’s future as a leading global hub. With bold ideas and sustained contributions, the company is poised to play an even greater role in defining the city’s next chapter as it strives to become one of the most admired destinations in the world.

 

Euclid Transactional Adds First Tax Underwriter Based in APAC

SINGAPORE, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Euclid Transactional, LLC (“Euclid Transactional”), a leading managing general agent focused on transactional insurance underwriting and claims handling, today announced that Wai Ling Low has joined as Senior Vice President and Tax Underwriter, APAC.

Wai Ling’s core responsibilities include supporting Euclid Transactional’s key broker partners by underwriting specific tax liability risks, representing the first tax underwriter based in the APAC region to join Euclid Transactional’s global tax insurance team. Wai Ling reports into Chris Waddington, Managing Director and Head of Tax (EMEA and APAC).

Chris commented: “We are very excited to have Wai Ling join Euclid Transactional’s global tax insurance team, which allows us to offer local tax underwriting capabilities in the APAC region for the first time. This will further enhance our global tax insurance offering and the support we provide to our key partners on their international deals“.

Wai Ling joins a rapidly growing Singapore-based APAC team that services its brokers and clients on their merger and acquisition transactions, tax risks and contingent risks in Asia Pacific.  “With her wealth of expertise in APAC tax, Wai Ling enhances our ability on the ground in APAC to provide integrated solutions to our valued partners. This strategic hire further cements our long-term commitment to the APAC region and we look forward to continuing to invest in talents in order to better address the needs of our partners,” said Alice Ho, Managing Director and Head of APAC at Euclid Transactional.

Wai Ling brings fourteen years of experience in advising clients on complex international tax issues, corporate restructuring, and mergers and acquisitions. She is an Accredited Tax Advisor (Income Tax) of the Singapore Chartered Tax Professionals and holds a BBA (Accountancy) from the National University of Singapore. Prior to joining Euclid Transactional, Wai Ling was an Associate Partner with EY Singapore, preceded by a role with PwC’s corporate tax advisory team.

Euclid Transactional has more than 140 employees across 10 offices around the world, including an industry-largest 20+ person claims team dedicated solely to transactional insurance claims handling.

Euclid Transactional APAC Pte. Ltd. operates under a delegation of authority by Swiss Re International SE, Singapore Branch in respect of representations and warranties insurance, tax liability insurance and contingent liability insurance, which arrangement is registered with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Euclid Transactional APAC Pte. Ltd. is registered with the General Insurance Association of Singapore.

About Euclid Transactional 

Euclid Transactional, LLC is a managing general agency specializing in the underwriting of representations & warranties/warranty & indemnity, tax liability, contingent liability and other transactional insurance coverages. Operated by one of the industry’s largest teams of experienced underwriters and claims executives, Euclid Transactional strives to provide the most consistent and dependable service and has issued policies that have paid more than $1 billion to its clients. The firm has offices in New York, London, Chicago, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Dublin, Toronto, Paris and Singapore, and offers full-service underwriting for deals across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific. Euclid Transactional is an affiliate of Euclid Insurance Services, a program administrator that provides its partners with advisory, accounting, information technology and human resource services. Euclid Transactional’s insurance capacity is provided by premier insurers, all of which are rated AM Best A (Excellent) or better.

Media Contact:
Jack Dulin
RF|Binder
jack.dulin@rfbinder.com
212-994-7582

China International Development Corporation has signed MOU with Carbontech Asia Pacific

Aimed at revolutionizing the Australian transportation industry

HONG KONG, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — China International Development Corporation Limited (“CIDC” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”; Stock Code: 0264 formed in collaboration with Flex Fuel Hydrogen Development Group Limited (“FFHD”) to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Star Allianz Capital Pty Ltd, Hon Chu Cheung and Flex Fuel Hydrogen Development Limited to acquire a 51% equity interest in Carbontech Asia Pacific Pty Ltd (the “Carbontech”), aimed at revolutionizing the Australian transportation industry.

With the Australian government’s new emissions reduction regulations set to take effect in 2025, the demand for effective carbon cleaning technologies has never been greater. These regulations will require transport companies to reduce their carbon footprints and improve fuel efficiency.

Under the MOU, CIDC proposes to purchase 51% of the equity interest in Carbontech. Carbontech located in Melbourne, is a leading provider of carbon cleaning technology for automotive engines. It specialize in using hydrogen-based and chemical additive technologies sourced from Flex Fuel, a French hydrogen manufacturing company.

To be the national and international market leader in carbon reduction solutions

Carbontech is poised to revolutionize engine decarbonization in Australia. In the short term, the company will establish a strong presence in Melbourne and major cities, educating transportation companies and aiming for top recognition in the Australian market. They will also introduce hydrogen and chemical additive technology to at least 100 Melbourne clients.

Over the medium term, expansion across all Australian states is planned, along with renting decarbonization machines to repair centers and introducing regular chemical additive sales, supported by mobile service units. The long-term vision is to become the market leader nationally and internationally, building a vast partner network and maintaining technological leadership through continuous R&D in carbon reduction solutions.

By leveraging cutting-edge hydrogen-based and chemical additive technologies, CarbonTech is set to reduce carbon build-up in engines, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce harmful emissions, ultimately enhancing the performance and longevity of automotive parts.

Future Prospects

Carbontech commented, “Our company is uniquely positioned to take advantage of the growing demand for engine decarbonization solutions in Australia. By leveraging cutting-edge technology from Flex Fuel, we can offer businesses and individuals the tools they need to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the life of their vehicles. With a clear strategy for expansion and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, we aim to become the leading provider of engine decarbonization services and products in Australia.”

CIDC commented, “We’re pleased to announce our acquisition of Carbontech, marking our entry into the Australian market. This follows the successful reorganization of our JV subsidiary in Shenzhen, which has deployed over 60 hydrogen decarbonizing and cleaning stations have been imported and installed in over 20 locations in China since March. By leveraging Carbontech’s local presence, we will introduce our proven hydrogen injection cleaning technology to help Australian transportation companies reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and extend vehicle lifespan, contributing to a greener Australia.”

About Flex Fuel Hydrogen Development  (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd

The Group and Flex Fuel Hydrogen Development Group Limited was set up a JV company named Flex Fuel Eco Company Limited. By the way of reorganization, the JV company became the holding company of Flex Fuel Hydrogen Development (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd (FFSZ). FFSZ is the exclusive sales and production authorisation of Flex Fuel Energy Development  (Base in France founded in 2009, one of the French technology 120 index companies) Products in Asia-Pacific. The engine hydrogen maintenance equipment has been officially certified by the French Railways Agency, the Oceanic Agency, the Ministry of Environmental Protection and other official safety certifications. At present, the group is engaged in hydrogen research and development and production equipment, providing a full range of energy solutions, applying its equipment and the hydrogen produced according to customer needs, so as to reduce costs, meet the world trend, apply renewable energy, directly reduce emissions and save energy, and meet the requirements of commercial ESG.

Toshiba Launches Overseas Business in ifLink, its Open IoT Platform for Easy Access to IoT Services

– Starting ifLink business in Thailand, aiming to develop global business –

KAWASAKI, Japan, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Toshiba Digital Solutions Corporation (Toshiba Digital Solutions) and Toshiba Asia Pacific (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (TATC), a Toshiba Group subsidiary, today brought an innovative, cost effective approach to IoT development to the Thai market with the launch of ifLink , built on the ifLink platform (ifLink) provided by Toshiba Digital Solutions. This is the first ifLink business outside Japan, and TATC is responsible for software license sales and customer support.

ifLink is an open IoT platform service that makes it easy to combine various IoT devices and web services into modules, connect to a cloud-based application platform and to define device operation with if-then (condition-action) rules. In Japan, ifLink has won support from over 100 companies and schools, and Toshiba Digital Solutions has provided ifLink licenses to Japanese companies in many different business sectors.

In Thailand, IoT implementation has been held back at some manufacturing sites by a lack of know-how and high introductory costs. TATC is collaborating with the Technology Promotion Association (ThailandJapan) (TPA), a non-profit set up to transfer and disseminate Japan’s latest IoT technologies and know-how in Thailand and to develop human resources. TATC has examined and confirmed that ifLink can be applied to kaizen activities at manufacturing sites participating in the Project of Smart Monodzukuri Support Team in Thailand that TPA is promoting as part of its effort to develop human resources for DX.

In November 2024 and January 2025, Toshiba held hands-on seminars for project instructors who assist in transferring digital technology to local personnel and TPA member companies covering the practical use of ifLink to set up IoT. Seminar participant found ifLink user-friendly, even for people with limited knowledge of IoT, which prompted Toshiba Digital Solutions and TATC to launch the ifLink business in Thailand for Thai manufacturing companies, including TPA members. Toshiba Digital Solutions provides the ifLink software, and TATC handles software license sales, device setup, and customer support in English and Thai.

In Thailand, TATC will offer a trial service leading to a full license. It provides one month’s use of the ifLink Starter Kit — an Android smartphone with the ifLink app installed, a data communications device, and sensors — and costs 10,500 baht (approximately 310 USD*) from TATC. Users can start using ifLink without preparing any devices themselves. Once users have used the trial service to confirm ifLink’s effectiveness, they can purchase the full license. It is a subscription service with a basic monthly license fee of 5,740 baht (approximately 170 USD*), plus the cost of an Android smartphone and the devices and sensors, and a one-time setup fee. The monthly subscription service fee may vary, depending on the sensors used. TPA members that participated in TPA’s ifLink seminar will receive a special price.

The ifLink Starter Kit for the trial service
The ifLink Starter Kit for the trial service

Toshiba Digital Solutions and TATC target sales of 100 ifLink Starter Kit licenses to manufacturers in Thailand over the three years to fiscal year 2027. They will also seek business partners to provide IoT solutions built on ifLink.

Toshiba Digital Solutions is considering taking the ifLink business in Asia-Pacific beyond Thailand, and aims to grow an ifLink-based open IoT business ecosystem in Japan and internationally.

About the ifLink platform: 
https://www.global.toshiba/ww/products-solutions/ai-iot/iflink.html

For product inquires: 
Toshiba Asia pacific (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Ms. Wichuta Lablay: wichuta_lablay@tasia.toshiba.co.jp (Thai)
Mr. Shunichi Morita: shunichi.morita@Toshiba.co.jp (Japanese)

* The amount is converted at a rate of 1 THB = 0.0296 USD.

– ifLink is a registered trademark or trademark of Toshiba Digital Solutions in Japan and other countries.

– Company names and product names in this press release may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

– The information in this press release, including service details, prices, specifications, related links, and contact information, is up to date as of the announcement date. Please note that it is subject to change without notice.