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The Caravel Group, International Maritime Institute (IMI), and Fleet Management Celebrate Significant Progress on the 1st Anniversary of Working Together as One to Train a New Generation of Future-Ready Seafarers

A year of partnership between Caravel, IMI, and Fleet Management delivers strengthened training and expanded career pathways, broadening opportunities for global maritime professionals and providing much-needed talent for a rapidly transforming industry


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – Today marks a significant milestone for the global shipping industry as The Caravel Group, celebrates the first anniversary of the International Maritime Institute (IMI) joining its family. This milestone marks a strategic move by The Caravel Group in addressing the critical talent shortage affecting the global shipping industry, while supporting India’s national goal to grow its share of seafarers to 20% of the global workforce by 2030. By combining IMI’s proud 35-year legacy as a premier maritime institute with sister company Fleet Management Limited’s operational excellence and depth, The Caravel Group has forged an integrated ecosystem that fosters the highest standard in training, broadens career opportunities for seafarers, and supports sustainable operations for the shipping industry.

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The Caravel Group has upgraded IMI’s facilities and invested in its curriculum, including adding advanced simulator training and specialised courses in alternative fuels, emissions reduction, and digital navigation. This year, IMI has also initiated 13 Pre-Sea batches and graduated 400 Pre-Sea cadets, sending many into professional placements with Fleet Management, one of the world’s largest shipping management companies.

Dr. Harry S. Banga, Founder and Executive Chairman of The Caravel Group, said: ” With the International Maritime Institute and Fleet Management under The Caravel Group, we have strengthened the connection between education and enterprise. Fleet Management’s global operations provide real world exposure that anchors IMI’s training in practical experience and opens pathways into professional careers.”

To mark the strategic importance of IMI to The Caravel Group and long-term commitment to maritime excellence, IMI has unveiled a new logo that honours IMI’s 35-year legacy while bringing it visually closer to Fleet Management through shared colours and design elements. Its new tagline, “Anchored in Maritime Excellence, Broadening Horizons,” underscores IMI’s core mission of providing seafarers with exceptional training to unlock a world of opportunities.

Pioneering an Integrated Ecosystem that Benefits Seafarers and Shipowners

For Fleet Management, the integration of IMI directly enhances its ability to secure a sustainable and high-quality talent pipeline. The partnership ensures aspiring talents receive unparalleled real-world exposure and mentorships from its senior officers, with training that is aligned with operational requirements. This results in robust career pathways, from classroom to vessel, providing direct access to highly competent seafarers, a significant advantage for its customers. In a sector facing crew shortages, it means a reliable supply of professionals who maintain the highest standards of safety and performance across its managed fleet.

This partnership also ensures that the next generation of seafarers is fully prepared to navigate modern fleets, comply with evolving regulations, and operate the advanced technologies that the industry will need onboard ships in the future.

Elevating Maritime Education through Innovation and Future-Readiness

With global seafarer talent shortages, The Caravel Group, IMI, and Fleet Management will continue to develop the next generation of global maritime professionals and ensure the industry’s long-term sustainability in the years to come.

The Caravel Group is committed to preserving IMI’s legacy in training excellence and ensuring that IMI’s world-class education remains at the forefront of industry changes and advancements, preparing seafarers for the challenges and opportunities of modern shipping. For Fleet’s customers, the quality of training means customers could continue to count on Fleet to deliver quality of manning, operational safety, and vessel performance.

Nurturing a Diverse and Resilient Global Seafaring Workforce

Building on IMI’s proud legacy, Fleet Management is investing in a workforce that embodies competence, character, and confidence. Its commitment extends to championing diversity and inclusion. IMI now offers a scholarship on tuition fees exclusively for women cadets, directly contributing to India’s goal of 12% female representation in technical maritime roles by 2030 and employs over 20,000 Indian seafarers within its 27,000-strong force. Furthermore, Fleet Management implements market-leading initiatives for seafarer wellbeing, including the Fleet Care team for mental health support, Gender Awareness training, a Women’s Network, and women-centric PPE, underscoring its dedication to a psychologically safe and inclusive workplace for all its seafarers.

One year in, Fleet Management stands committed to this strengthened partnership. With a new look for IMI, robust training and professional development pathways, and an unwavering commitment to safety, ingenuity, responsibility, and excellence, Fleet Management continues to shape the future of maritime professionals for its fleet and the global industry.

Hashtag: #FleetManagementLimited

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

About The Caravel Group

The Caravel Group, headquartered in Hong Kong, is a privately held and globally diversified group with operations across maritime services, dry bulk commodity trading, institutional investment management, and philanthropy. Its maritime division includes Fleet Management Limited, the world’s second-largest third-party ship manager with over 600 vessels under management, and strategic investments, including a major stake in Pacific Basin (HKEX: 2343). Caravel also owns the International Maritime Institute (IMI) in India, reinforcing its commitment to maritime talent development. Through Caravel Asset Management, the Group invests globally across public markets and private equity, while its philanthropic arm, The Caravel Foundation, supports the education and well-being of underprivileged youth across Hong Kong, China, and India.

About Fleet Management Limited

Fleet Management Limited, part of The Caravel Group, is the world’s second largest ship management company, managing more than 600 vessels. This rank bears testament to the resilience and commitment of 27,000+ seafarers and 1,200+ onshore maritime professionals, serving shipowners worldwide. Fleet manages a range of vessels, including bulk carriers, containers, car carriers, oil tankers, gas carriers and chemical tankers from 600 to 320,000 DWT in size – with many being young and energy-efficient with an age profile below the industry average. The company also has a dynamic newbuilding supervision department.

Learn more:

About the International Maritime Institute (IMI), Noida

The International Maritime Institute (IMI) is a premier maritime training institution established in 1991. Located in Noida, North India, IMI addresses the global shipping industry’s workforce needs by providing high-quality training and education. The institute boasts state-of-the-art simulators, experienced faculty, and a curriculum designed to equip cadets with essential skills for a successful maritime career. IMI’s commitment to excellence has earned it a strong reputation, making it a sought- after institution for aspiring seafarers. With a focus on holistic development, IMI prepares students to become responsible leaders and outstanding seafarers.

Learn more:

Regal Partners Completes Share Placement to Support Business Expansion in Southeast Asia


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – Regal Partners Holdings Limited (“Regal Partners” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries as the “Group”, stock code: 1575.HK) is pleased to announce the successful completion of a placement of 560,000,000 new shares at a price of HK$0.05 per share, raising net proceeds of approximately HK$28 million.

The net proceeds from this placement will strengthen the Group’s financial position and provide vital resources for ongoing operations and expansion plans. 65% of the proceeds will be allocated to expanding the Group’s production capacity and supply chain in Southeast Asia. This initiative involves purchasing additional equipment, new leasing of the production site, and hiring more personnel and hence expanding floor area and upgrading the production capabilities. By mid-2026, the Group anticipates increasing its capacity to meet rising demand, particularly from the North American market. 15% of the proceeds will be used to develop regional showrooms functioning as sales centres in Southeast Asia to promote products, connect with export buyers, and generate new business opportunities, while the remainder will support the Group’s general working capital.

Following a comprehensive business restructuring in 2025, which included strategic initiatives focusing on overseas production expansion, broadening customer outreach, resource reallocation, and product enhancements, the Group has established a robust foundation for sustainable development. The net proceeds from the placement will accelerate the strategic expansion in Southeast Asia, enhancing offshore manufacturing capabilities and bolstering supply chain resilience. These expansion efforts, targeted for completion by mid-2026, will fortify regional operations and long-term scalability. Concurrently, the Group will continue investing in sales, marketing, and brand visibility, including participation in major trade shows such as High Point Market and the establishment of additional regional showrooms to broaden its global clientele. By increasing production capacity and market presence, Regal Partners aims to enhance competitiveness, attract a diverse customer base, and respond efficiently to global demand.

Mr. Chong Tsz Ngai, Chairman and Executive Director of Regal Partners Holdings Limited, stated, “We sincerely appreciate the support from the capital markets. This placement will significantly strengthen our working capital, enabling us to respond to rapidly changing market demands and advance our next phase of expansion. Following a year of focused restructuring in 2025, we are now accelerating production enhancements while intensifying our business development and marketing efforts. We are also very grateful for the support of our existing and new customers. We anticipate a steady increase in order flow throughout 2026 and onwards, with expansion benefits expected to yield positive results in the near future. We remain committed to solidifying our operational foundation and capturing new growth opportunities to create values our customers and shareholders.”
Hashtag: #RegalPartners

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

Regal Partners Holdings Limited

Regal Partners Holdings Limited is one of the leading and long-established manufacturers of sofas and sofa covers in China with an integrated design, manufacturing, sales and marketing operation. The Group exports sofas, sofa covers and other furniture products to customers in overseas markets predominantly to Canada, the U.S and Europe, and other regions such as Mexico, Australia and Dubai.

15 Years of Huion: Imagine the Future with the Debut of the “Concept Creative Set”

LOS ANGELES, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On March 12, Huion—a leading brand in digital ink tools—celebrates its 15th anniversary. Over the past 15 years, Huion has evolved from a startup into an industry leader, dedicated to providing affordable yet high-performance pen tablets and displays for artists worldwide.

To mark this milestone, Huion is launching a series of global events, including giveaways, exclusive deals, and engaging drawing contests across its official website and social media platforms. What’s more, Huion introduces its groundbreaking Concept Creative Set—a visionary look at the future of creative devices and the first of its kind in the industry.

The Concept Creative Set includes:

  • Huion Infinite Canvas
  • Huion PenTech Infinite
  • Huion Dream Catcher

The Huion PenTech Infinite pen supports Omni-Spatial Creation. Whether working on 2D surfaces or within 3D spaces, users can create on the Infinite Canvas, in the air, or even on physical walls and desks. This technology mimics the tactile feel of real brushes with advanced tilt sensitivity, untethering the artist from the desk.

Meanwhile, the Dream Catcher works by decoding the user’s brainwave and physiological signals during sleep, converting dream data into real-time visual, auditory, and emotional inspirations. These serve as raw references and materials for the creative process. It also enables real-time collaboration with other online artists, allowing for live edits and synchronized drawings on the same artwork. Users can store their dreams and digital artwork in a dedicated cloud space: DreamScape.

Huion’s motivation for designing these concept tools is to break free from the limitations of traditional hardware. By stepping away from mass-production and cost constraints, Huion is boldly exploring new creative forms that push the boundaries of artistic tools. This reflects Huion’s vision to redefine its role as a pioneer of digital-era creative culture and the future of artistic lifestyles.

Looking ahead, Huion will continue to challenge conventional beliefs about the tools and conditions required for art, striving to innovate and bring more accessible, boundary-breaking tools to artists and designers everywhere.

To explore more ideas of the concept products, visit huion.com. To upgrade your creative setup, follow @huiontablet and Huion’s official community for a chance to win exclusive anniversary prizes.

 

LEIFRAS Co., Ltd. and Shime Town Launch Full-Scale Initiative to Balance Teacher Work-Style Reform and Club Activity Engagement

Following a pilot program, the new initiative aims to expand in scale, enabling teachers to choose whether to teach through side jobs.

TOKYO, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LEIFRAS Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: LFS) (the “Company” or “Leifras”), a sports and social business company dedicated to youth sports and community engagement, today announced that it has entered into a contract (the “Contract”) with Shime Town, Kasuya District, Fukuoka Prefecture (“Shime Town“) to support the transition of junior high school club activities to local communities in Shime Town and to provide sports instruction and related management services.

Leifras has been engaging in a one-year pilot program in Shime Town from April 2025 (the “Pilot Program”). Through the new initiative under the Contract (the “Initiative”), Leifras expects to advance nationwide reforms to improve teachers’ working conditions while establishing a system for compensated “side jobs” that allows teachers who wish to provide guidance for club activities to receive fair compensation, thereby creating a new model for regional club activities.

Contract Overview

Client: Shime Town, Kasuya District, Fukuoka Prefecture
Contract Period: February 2, 2026 to March 31, 2027 (Leifras’ instruction services are scheduled to commence from April 2026)

Background: Nationwide Transition Pursuing Better Club Activities for Both Children and Teachers

Japan’s transition of extracurricular club activities to local communities aims to ensure that children continue to have opportunities to engage in diverse sports and cultural activities even amid declining birthrates. At the same time, the transition seeks to enhance the quality of school club activities through specialized instruction by experienced professionals. Additionally, the transition also helps reduce the burden on teachers, who have long faced challenges such as long working hours due to supervision duties on holidays, thereby promoting reforms in teachers’ working practices.

The core of the transition lies in building a sustainable club activity framework while maintaining the educational roles that club activities have traditionally fulfilled in Japan: fostering social skills and character development. However, many teachers have expressed sentiments for teaching club activities. Additionally, numerous students have expressed anxiety about the future, asking whether teachers will still be able to participate in club activities.

The shift to community-based club activities is an educational reform that aims to provide children with the optimal environment for club activities while also increasing the options available to teachers regarding club activity instruction. Under the Contract with Shime Town, Leifras’ instructors are expected to take the lead in guiding club activities on holidays, creating an environment where children can receive specialized instruction. Meanwhile, teachers who wish to continue guiding club activities can do so as “side jobs” with permission from their schools and receive compensation for their work. The Initiative aims to build a sustainable framework for club activities. In the Pilot Program, three teachers in Shime Town conducted extracurricular club activities on holidays as compensated side jobs.

Future Prospects: From Pilot Testing to Full-scale Implementation

With the Pilot Program, Leifras has accumulated expertise in managing club activities tailored to Shime Town through engagement in Shime Town’s transition of junior high school club activities to community-based programs.

Through the Initiative, Leifras plans to expand its scope and continue working alongside Shime Town to build a sustainable sports environment through collaboration among the municipality, schools, and private-sector companies.

Market Environment and Trends

Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (“MEXT”) has designated the six-year period from 2026 to 2031 as the “Reform Implementation Period” under its “Comprehensive Guidelines for the Reform of Club Activities and the Promotion of Community Club Activities”. The guidelines state the following specific initiatives for this period:

  • Holiday Club Activities: In principle, MEXT aims to shift all holiday club activities to community-based models.
  • Weekday Club Activities: MEXT plans to execute further reforms while addressing various issues.

This signifies that following the previous trial “Promotion Period (FY2023-2025),” the implementation of the guideline now entered a phase of full-scale implementation of community-based club activities across all local governments nationwide.

The Contract with Shime Town commences in the first year of the “Reform Implementation Period” (FY2026) and serves as a pioneering case aligned with the national policy roadmap.

As this nationwide transition to community-based clubs accelerates, Leifras aims to further strengthen its position in the expanding market for outsourced public education-related services.

Achievements in Club Activity Support

Leifras has been supporting school clubs since before the nationwide call for localization of club activities, and has been cooperating with a number of local governments across Japan. The Company’s financial results for the nine months ended September 30, 2025 also reflected this high demand for school club support, with social business sales increasing 36.4% year-on-year and the number of schools contracted for club activities increasing 53.2% year-on-year, demonstrating continued rapid growth.

  • Social business sales: JPY 2,358.6 million (+36.4% year-on-year)
  • Number of schools contracted for club activities: 360 schools (+53.2% year-on-year)

Selected Ongoing Projects Since Fiscal Year 2024

Leifras is expanding its portfolio of club activity support projects, including multi-year contracts, primarily in urban areas and large municipalities.

  • Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya City (Chikusa Ward, Showa Ward, and 12 other wards): New athletic and cultural activity projects at Nagoya City elementary schools
  • Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya City: Nagoya Club Activity Talent Bank Contract Project Tokyo, Minato Ward: Club activity coaching services

Selected New Projects Since Fiscal Year 2025

  • Osaka Prefecture, Suita City: Suita City Junior High School Club Activity Management and Operation Services
  • Tokyo, Shibuya Ward: Operation and management personnel and specialized instructor placement for 10 athletic clubs at two public junior high schools
  • Hokkaido, Monbetsu City: Monbetsu City Community Club Management Services

About LEIFRAS Co., Ltd.

Headquartered in Tokyo, Leifras is a sports and social business company dedicated to youth sports and community engagement. The Company primarily provides services related to the organization and operations of sports schools and sports events for children. As of December 31, 2024, Leifras was recognized as one of Japan’s largest operators of children’s sports schools in terms of both membership and facilities by Tokyo Shoko Research. The Company’s approach to sports education emphasizes the development of non-cognitive skills, following the teaching principle “acknowledge, praise, encourage, and motivate.” The holistic approach that integrates physical and mental development sets Leifras apart in the industry. Building upon deep experience and know-how in sports education, Leifras also operates a robust social business sector, dispatching sports coaches to meet various community needs with the aim to promote physical health, social inclusion, and community well-being across different demographics.

For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://ir.leifras.co.jp/.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may,” or other similar expressions in this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks, including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the registration statement and other filings with the SEC. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.

For more information, please contact:

LEIFRAS Co., Ltd.
Investor Relations Department
Email: IR@leifras.co.jp

Ascent Investor Relations LLC

Tina Xiao
Phone: +1-646-932-7242
Email: investors@ascent-ir.com

Nuance Pharma Announces Approval of Ohtuvayre® (ensifentrine) in Hong Kong SAR, China

Approval marks the second regulatory approval outside of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, further expanding access to COPD patients in select Special Administrative Regions (SARs) in Greater China

SHANGHAI, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Nuance Pharma (“Nuance”) announced that the Hong Kong Drug Office approved Ohtuvayre® (ensifentrine) for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adult patients under the “1+ mechanism.”

Ohtuvayre® is the first novel inhaled mechanism for the treatment of COPD in more than 20 years and combines bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Ohtuvayre in June 2024 for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adult patients.

The approval of Ohtuvayre in Hong Kong SAR, China, was based on the Global Phase 3 ENHANCE trials and referencing the completed ENHANCE-CHINA trial. In the ENHANCE trials, Ohtuvayre demonstrated clinical benefits both alone and when used in combination with a LABA, a LABA+ICS, a LAMA, or a LAMA+ICS.

Mark Lotter, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Nuance Pharma, said: “We are pleased to announce that the Hong Kong regulatory authority has approved the registration of Ohtuvayre under the “1+ mechanism,” which also marks the second regulatory approval outside of the U.S. We are proud to provide access to this highly innovative COPD treatment to patients in Hong Kong and Macau.”

Ohtuvayre was approved by the Pharmaceutical Administration Bureau Macau in February 2025, and was introduced in the Greater Bay Area in November 2025 through the “Hong Kong and Macau Medicine and Equipment Connect” policy and can be used in designated medical institutions. In November 2024, Nuance Pharma launched Ohtuvayre in China’s Hainan Boao Pilot Zone through an early access program. in January 2026, Nuance Pharma announced acceptance for review of the new drug application for Ohtuvayre by the national medical products administration of China.

In 2021, Nuance Pharma entered into an agreement with Verona Pharma for the exclusive rights to develop and commercialize Ohtuvayre in Greater China (mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan).

In October 2025, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA, known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, announced the completion of the acquisition of Verona Pharma plc. MSD holds the exclusive rights to develop and commercialize Ohtuvayre in all markets outside of Greater China.

About Ohtuvayre® (ensifentrine)

Ohtuvayre® is the first inhaled therapy for the maintenance treatment of COPD in adult patients that combines bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory activities in one molecule.  Ohtuvayre was evaluated in a Phase 3 clinical program ENHANCE (“Ensifentrine as a Novel inHAled Nebulized COPD thErapy”) for COPD maintenance treatment. Ohtuvayre met the primary endpoint in both ENHANCE-1 and ENHANCE-2, demonstrating statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in lung function.

Ohtuvayre Indication and Important Safety Information

INDICATION

Ohtuvayre is indicated for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adult patients.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Contraindication: Ohtuvayre is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to ensifentrine or any component of this product.

Warnings and Precautions:
Acute Episodes of Bronchospasm Ohtuvayre should not be used for the relief of acute symptoms, i.e., as rescue therapy for the treatment of acute episodes of bronchospasm. Acute symptoms should be treated with an inhaled, short-acting bronchodilator.

Paradoxical Bronchospasm As with other inhaled medicines, Ohtuvayre may produce paradoxical bronchospasm, which may be life threatening. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs following dosing with Ohtuvayre, it should be treated immediately with an inhaled, short-acting bronchodilator. Ohtuvayre should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapy should be instituted.

Psychiatric Events Including Suicidality Before initiating treatment with Ohtuvayre, healthcare providers should carefully weigh the risk and benefits of treatment with Ohtuvayre in patients with a history of depression and/or suicidal thoughts or behavior. Patients, their caregivers, and families should be advised of the need to be alert for the emergence or worsening of insomnia, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mood changes, and if such changes occur to contact their healthcare provider. Healthcare providers should carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of continuing treatment with Ohtuvayre if such events occur.

Treatment with Ohtuvayre is associated with an increase in psychiatric adverse reactions. Psychiatric events including suicide-related adverse reactions were reported in clinical studies in patients who received Ohtuvayre (1 suicide attempt and 1 suicide). Additionally, the most commonly reported psychiatric adverse reactions in the pooled 24-week safety population were insomnia (6 patients [0.6%] Ohtuvayre 3 mg; 2 patients [0.3%] placebo), and anxiety (2 patients [0.2%] Ohtuvayre 3 mg; 1 patient [0.2%] placebo). Depression-related reactions including depression, major depression, and adjustment disorder with depressed mood occurred in 4 patients [0.4%] receiving Ohtuvayre and no patients receiving placebo.

Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions ≥1% in Ohtuvayre and greater than placebo in the pooled population were back pain 1.8%, hypertension 1.7%, urinary tract infection 1.3%, and diarrhea 1.0%.

These are not all of the possible risks associated with Ohtuvayre.

Please see Prescribing Information for Ohtuvayre (ensifentrine) at: https://ohtuvayrehcp.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/11/Ohtuvayre-US-Prescribing-Information.pdf, Patient Information for Ohtuvayre at: https://ohtuvayre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ohtuvayre-US-Prescribing-Information.pdf.

About Nuance Pharma

Nuance Pharma is an innovation-focused biopharmaceutical company, with both late-stage clinical pipeline and commercial stage asset portfolio. Focusing on specialty care, Nuance has established a differentiated combination of commercialized assets and innovative pipeline across respiratory, pain management, emergency care and iron deficiency anemia. With the mission to address critical unmet medical needs in Asia Pacific, Nuance deploys the Dual Wheel model that develops a global leading innovative pipeline, while maintaining a self-sustainable commercial operation in both China and Asia as a region. For more information, please visit www.nuancepharma.com.

Forward-looking Statements

This news release may make statements that constitute forward-looking statements, including descriptions regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company or its officers with respect to the business operations and financial condition of the Company, which can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, or other factors, some of which are beyond the control of the Company and are unforeseeable. Therefore, the actual results may differ from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and assumptions, such as future changes and developments in our business, competitive environment, political, economic, legal and social conditions. The Company or any of its affiliates, directors, officers, advisors or representatives has no obligation and does not undertake to revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or circumstances after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

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