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Fujitsu and The University of Osaka develop new technologies for chemical material energy calculations on early-FTQC quantum computers

Contributing to the early application of quantum computers in drug discovery and new material development 

TOKYO, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fujitsu Limited and the Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology at The University of Osaka today announced the development of a new technology designed to accelerate the industrial application of quantum computers in the era of early fault-tolerant quantum computing (early-FTQC). By combining ver. 3 of the STAR architecture, a unique highly efficient phase rotation gate quantum computing architecture, with a novel molecular model optimization technique, researchers have significantly reduced computational resource requirements. This breakthrough will enable the energy calculations for chemical material design such as catalyst molecules, within a realistic timeframe using early-FTQC quantum computers. These kinds of calculations are currently not possible using current computers, and would take millennia even using previous versions of the STAR architecture. The technologies are expected to contribute to solving various societal challenges, including accelerating drug discovery, improving the efficiency of ammonia synthesis processes, and advancing carbon recycling technologies.

Background

Quantum computing holds significant promise across a wide range of industries, including drug discovery, cryptography, and finance. However, current quantum systems are highly error-prone, and practical applications are generally believed to require quantum computers with millions of qubits.

In addition, the accurate calculation of complex molecular chemical energies for practical applications has required excessive computational resources, with prior methods limited by insufficient computational power or impractical timeframes.

Future plans

Fujitsu and The University of Osaka will continue to advance the STAR architecture and molecular model optimization technology, expanding the practical application range of quantum computers in the early-FTQC era. The partners aim to contribute to solving societal challenges by applying these technologies across various industrial fields, including drug discovery, new material development, and finance.

For full release click here

Polyplastics’ DURACON(R) POM Adopted for Ground-breaking Crawler Transport System

TOKYO, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Polyplastics Co., Ltd.’s DURACON(R) POM resin has been selected for use in a unique crawler track transport system developed by Tokyo-based CuboRex Co., Ltd., a leading supplier of innovative mobility solutions. The unique transport system, which significantly improves work efficiency at factory and construction sites compared to conventional caster-equipped carts, includes a structural crawler covering made of DURACON(R) POM.

Image: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M100475/202603185867/_prw_PI1fl_BN4tWSX9.png 

DURACON(R) POM was selected for the crawler’s white components. It was chosen for its high load-bearing capacity, providing the strength to withstand heavy-duty material handling at manufacturing sites. POM also boasts excellent friction properties, delivering stable performance in both static and dynamic friction. It offers durability and reliability, and meets destruction criteria even in harsh field environments. DURACON(R) POM was adopted as an optimal solution following comparative testing with other resins such as PA.

CuboRex’s trolley crawlers can be easily installed on existing trolleys. The increased contact area reduces the load per unit area (ground pressure), decreasing friction resistance and sinking. The force required for operation is significantly reduced, enabling smooth travel even over steps and uneven terrain. Under similar conditions, turning performance also improves. Maneuvers that were arduous with conventional casters become easier, substantially reducing operator strain. Coordination with tow trucks and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) also becomes smoother, preventing time loss due to stops or dropped cargo.

Demand for material handling is growing, with significant potential anticipated even within the Japanese market. The introduction of crawlers for carts eliminates the need to purchase new dedicated transport carts, enabling a dramatic improvement in operational efficiency while utilizing existing equipment. This solution, which simultaneously achieves cost reduction and enhanced safety, holds great potential in the global market as well. Applications across diverse industries, including logistics, manufacturing and construction, are anticipated in the future.

This case study demonstrates that material selection can transform on-site productivity, going beyond mere material supply. DURACON(R) POM served as a key material supporting CuboRex’s innovative ideas, contributing to the efficiency of transport operations.

For more information, visit: https://www.polyplastics.com/global/s/ourapproach/a5nRB000002hUOHYA2/239?language=en_US

About CuboRex Co., Ltd. and about Polyplastics: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202603185867-O1-v9SRWvjD.pdf 

DURACON(R) is a registered trademark of Polyplastics Co., Ltd. in Japan and other countries.

Lao Government Secures 14 Million Liters of Diesel to Address Fuel Shortage

Lao State Fuel Company station at Sengsawang village, Xaysettha dsitrict, Vientiane Capital, Laos.

The Lao government is working quickly to stabilize the country’s energy supply amid ongoing disruptions in global markets caused by the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

To address a surge in local demand, authorities have secured a deal for 14 million liters of diesel, helping to alleviate long lines and skyrocketing fuel prices. The authorities announced the deal during a joint press conference on 24 March by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Lao Petroleum State Enterprise, and PTT (Lao) Company Limited, which also laid out their strategy to keep the pumps running and prevent a full-blown shortage.

The move follows a challenging few weeks for Lao motorists.

Just earlier this month, fuel prices saw one of their largest single jumps in years, with diesel skyrocketing by over LAK 7,000 per liter, drawing comparisons to the global energy crisis of 2022.

The current instability is being driven by strikes in Tehran that claimed the life of Iran’s Supreme Leader and triggered retaliatory attacks. This has put the world on edge over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that handles about a fifth of the world’s daily oil.

With crude prices ranging from USD 85 to USD 98 per barrel, the effects have been sharply felt in Laos, where over 97 percent of fuel is imported from Thailand.

Earlier in March, Thailand reduced fuel exports to Laos by 25 percent, exacerbating the situation.

International Suppliers

In response to the shortfall, Vietnam has stepped in to provide Laos with 50 million liters of fuel.

Laos signed a deal on 21 March with a state-run Vietnamese oil company. Alongside this, Laos and Vietnam have agreed to build cross-border fuel infrastructure and storage facilities to ensure a more stable and cost-efficient supply in the future.

Now, to get ahead of the crisis, the government and industry leaders signed a new contract with international suppliers to secure the 14-million-liter haul.

While the specific suppliers remain under wraps, the ministry confirmed that the fuel is scheduled to arrive no later than mid-April 2026.

Market Controls, Responsible Fuel Use

As part of efforts to stabilize the situation, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has mandated daily stock reports from fuel importers to prevent hoarding and price manipulation.

Authorities have apologized for recent disruptions and are urging the public to use fuel responsibly while they work to secure the nation’s energy future.

The government is also exploring additional long-term solutions, including seeking new suppliers, to safeguard against future shortages.

ZNSHINE SOLAR Supplies Modules for Cherry Valley I PV Project in the United States

CHERRY VALLEY, Ark., March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ZNSHINE SOLAR, a globally recognized Tier 1 photovoltaic manufacturer, has announced its contribution of 155.735 MW of high-efficiency modules to the 185.035 MW (DC) Cherry Valley I PV Project in Cherry Valley, Arkansas.

The project has an AC capacity of 135 MW and achieved financial close on February 21, 2025, through non-recourse financing and term loan arrangements provided by U.S. Bank. It is scheduled for commissioning on April 22, 2026.

Project Highlights:

  • Total Capacity: 185.035 MW (DC) / 135 MW (AC)
  • Module Supply: ZNSHINE SOLAR (155.735 MW), Hounen Solar (29.3 MW)
  • Inverter Supplier: Sungrow
  • Development: Adapture Renewables & TED Renewables
  • EPC Contractor: SOLV Energy

About ZNSHINE SOLAR

ZNSHINE SOLAR is a BloombergNEF Tier 1 PV module manufacturer and a PVEL Top Performer, with over a decade of global experience in photovoltaic manufacturing and project delivery. The company continues to provide reliable, high-efficiency solar solutions across utility-scale, commercial, and distributed generation markets worldwide.

SMARTIES™ 2026: Where Marketing Excellence Meets Real-World Impact – Thailand, Now Is Your Time to Shine

BANGKOK, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Marketing + Media Alliance (MMA) proudly announces the opening of entries for the SMARTIES™ Thailand 2026.

Thailand is one of the few markets where advertising is treated as entertainment. Thai marketers have mastered the craft of turning campaigns into cultural moments. SMARTIES™ Thailand 2026 celebrates the work that proves creativity can drive both conversation and measurable business impact.

SMARTIES™ 2026: Where Marketing Excellence Meets Real-World Impact – Thailand, Now Is Your Time to Shine!
SMARTIES™ 2026: Where Marketing Excellence Meets Real-World Impact – Thailand, Now Is Your Time to Shine!

Marketing effectiveness today is powered by the convergence of technology, creativity, data, and media. The SMARTIES™ 2026 framework reflects this reality with a refined channel structure built for today’s integrated marketing ecosystem.

SMARTIES™ 2026 Channels

Purpose Driven Marketing – For work that leverages brands to drive meaningful societal impact, advancing sustainability, social responsibility, diversity, and inclusion.

Impact Marketing – For work that delivers measurable business outcomes by strengthening brand connections, enhancing customer experiences, and driving growth.

Media and Growth – For work demonstrating excellence in media planning, digital ecosystems, and performance-driven marketing to reach and grow audiences.

Creative & Innovation Impact – For work that harnesses creativity, data, and emerging technologies to create groundbreaking experiences and drive measurable marketing impact.

“Thai marketers continue to raise the bar by combining creativity with measurable business outcomes and have a rare ability to combine cultural intelligence with creative effectiveness that drives real business impact .SMARTIES™ Thailand 2026 honors the work that proves great storytelling can also drive real growth.” says Rohit Dadwal, CEO of MMA APAC & Global Head of SMARTIES™ Worldwide.

Winning a SMARTIES™ Award puts Thai campaigns on the world map- featured in MMA SMARTIES Business Impact Index, RECMA, and the WARC Media 100 Ranking.

Key Details
  • Deadline: Jul 9, 2026
  • Awards: Gold, Silver, Bronze; top honors include Best in Show, Juror’s Choice Award of the Year, Most Resilient Brand of the Year, Advertiser of the Year, National Advertiser of the Year (Country award), Brand of the Year, Local Brand of the Year (Country award), Publisher of the Year, Enabling Technology Company of the Year, Media Agency of the Year, Creative Agency of the Year, Independent Agency of the Year, Holding Agency Company of the Year, Agency Network of the Year (Regional /Global award), Specialist Agency of the Year
  • Judging: Senior brand marketers and industry leaders evaluating innovation, creativity, and measurable impact.
  • Entry Levels:

About MMA: The Marketing + Media Alliance is the global non-profit community of CMOs advancing marketers’ ability to create value, with 825+ members across 16 countries. mmaglobal.com

About SMARTIES™:

SMARTIES™ is the prestigious marketing awards program hosted by MMA, recognizing excellence in marketing effectiveness and innovation. The SMARTIES Awards celebrate campaigns that push creative boundaries while delivering measurable business impact. With programs spanning local, regional, and global markets, SMARTIES has become the industry’s most respected benchmark for marketing that drives real growth.

Helios & Partners Makes Strategic Investment in WhatIsMyAEO.com to Pioneer AI-Driven Brand Visibility Diagnostics

SINGAPORE, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Helios & Partners, leaders in the Consumer Ecosystem Investing™ model, today announced a strategic investment in WhatIsMyAEO.com. The platform provides complimentary, AI-driven diagnostics that help B2B brands assess and improve their visibility across leading answer engines like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity.

The resource offers real-time diagnostics to evaluate a brand’s AI visibility. It provides a comprehensive assessment of digital presence across major LLMs, with results refreshed every 24 hours to track the evolving AI landscape.

Key Diagnostic Capabilities:

  • Market Visibility: Measures brand citation frequency against up to 20 competitors.
  • Sentiment Analysis: Evaluates the context and tone of brand mentions across AI platforms.
  • Trust & Authority Signals: Analyzes semantic markup and content structure to assess brand credibility.
  • Technical AEO Scoring: Grades digital assets on AI-readiness, including llm.txt implementation and data organization.

In an era where “zero-click” search is becoming the norm, brand discovery increasingly relies on AI recognition. WhatIsMyAEO.com delivers actionable insights in under two minutes, helping businesses understand how they are cited and interpreted by artificial intelligence.

“Our investment reflects a commitment to a transparent media environment,” said Humphrey Ho, CEO of Helios & Partners. “By providing free AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) tools, we empower businesses to stay visible as AI transforms how consumers and B2B buyers make decisions.”

The platform is available globally at no cost, allowing organizations to optimize their digital presence without complex sign-ups. With Helios & Partners’ backing, WhatIsMyAEO.com will continue to scale its open-source efforts to democratize AI-driven discovery insights.

About Helios & Partners
Helios & Partners is a GFM Awarded Family Office built on the principle of Consumer Ecosystem Investing™, funding and building: growth capital, brand experience, talent, and revenue for consumer brands. The firm serves as a long-term partner to brands, growth stage companies, and marketers, through capital investment and operational support. It takes a stake in the entire consumer journey across AI & Cybersecurity, Media & Publications, Fashion, Luxury, Beauty, and Lifestyle.

Its operating arm, Helios Worldwide, unites media, creative, technology, and communications teams to deliver integrated, results-driven solutions across the consumer journey. Together, they offer a new model for building brands with shared success at the core.

Learn more at https://heliospartnership.com/

Media Contact:
pr@heliosww.com 

Asia Pacific Consumers Lack Confidence to Achieve Economic Goals – Herbalife Survey

HONG KONG, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Herbalife, a premier health and wellness company and community and platform, released new findings from its Asia Pacific (APAC) Health and Economic Empowerment Survey 2025, where only two in five (43%) consumers feel very empowered to improve their economic wellbeing, and only one in three are very confident in achieving their economic goals in the next 12 months. In view of this, many plan to reduce their non-essential spending, invest or to start a business to boost their chances of achieving their goals.

“The survey showed lower levels of economic empowerment and confidence among the consumers in this region, and many remain uncertain about their economic wellbeing in the year ahead. However, it’s encouraging to see that people are actively seeking opportunities such as investing or starting a business to improve their financial future. For those seeking to make some extra income or grow a business, Herbalife offers a versatile platform of tools, technology, training and community to help people achieve their goals for greater economic stability,” said Thomas Harms, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Herbalife.


The APAC Health and Economic Empowerment Survey 2025 was conducted in October last year and polled 8,505 respondents, including 2,245 entrepreneurs, across 11 markets including Australia, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan region, Thailand and Vietnam.

Reducing spend, diversifying income sources key to improving economic wellbeing

Among those surveyed, less than one in three (30%) rate their current state of economic wellbeing positively. This was influenced largely by the uncertain economic climate (47%), as well as the personal financial commitments (34%) that consumers already have. 

In response to this, many are choosing to actively take steps to boost their economic wellbeing in the next 12 months. Almost half (49%) plan to reduce their non-essential spending, one in three intend to explore investing options and one in four (23%) aim to start a business to improve their financial outlook.

Gen Zs, Millennials more optimistic about improving health and economic wellbeing

Looking ahead, there is greater optimism among younger consumers in improving their economic well-being and health in the next 12 months. Two in three Gen Zs (66%) and Millennials (62%) expect their economic to improve in the coming months, significantly higher than the average of 55% across all age groups.

The survey also found a similar pattern when it comes to the outlook on one’s health. Forty-seven percent of Gen Zs and 46% of Millennials expressed confidence in achieving their health goals in the next 12 months, higher than the proportion of Gen Xers (34%) and Boomers (27%) who share the same sentiments.

Majority taking positive actions to realize health goals in the next 12 months

The top three actions mentioned to improve overall health and well-being were exercising more (53%), giving up unhealthy lifestyle habits (43%), and increasing time on wellbeing activities (36%).

The survey also revealed differences in the steps that men and women tend to take to realize their health goals. Men have a higher tendency to turn to exercise while women are more inclined to optimize their diet, choosing to consume healthier foods to boost health.

Strong correlation between health and economic empowerment

The findings showed a strong correlation between health and economic empowerment. Individuals who feel highly empowered to make decisions that improve their economic well-being (95%) are more likely to report higher levels of health empowerment (88%) in tandem.

“This suggests that confidence in financial decision-making may just go hand-in-hand with one’s confidence in managing personal health. In the face of ongoing uncertainties, taking charge of your economic and personal well-being is more important than ever before. Consumers can be more intentional about fostering positive lifestyle habits and diversifying income streams to lay the foundation for a healthier and fulfilling life,” added Harms.

About Herbalife Ltd.
Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) is a premier health and wellness company, community and platform that has been changing people’s lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed products to consumers in more than 90 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle to live their best life. 

For more information, please contact:
Susan Tan
Director, Corporate Communications, Asia Pacific 
Herbalife  
Email: asiapacificteam@herbalife.com

SMARTIES™ 2026: Where Marketing Excellence Meets Real-World Impact – The Philippines is Ready for the Global Stage

MANILA, Philippines, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Marketing + Media Alliance (MMA) proudly announces the opening of entries for the SMARTIES™ Philippines 2026.

The Philippines is one of the world’s most socially active digital markets, where audiences don’t just watch campaigns; they amplify them. SMARTIES™ Philippines 2026 is where the work that turns cultural energy into measurable impact earns recognition.

SMARTIES™ 2026: Where Marketing Excellence Meets Real-World Impact – The Philippines is Ready for the Global Stage!
SMARTIES™ 2026: Where Marketing Excellence Meets Real-World Impact – The Philippines is Ready for the Global Stage!

Marketing today operates at the intersection of technology, creativity, media, and data. Reflecting this shift, the SMARTIES™ framework has been updated for 2026 with a channel structure designed to better capture how modern marketing ecosystems work together to drive business growth and measurable impact.

SMARTIES™ 2026 Channels

Purpose Driven Marketing – Campaigns that leverage the power of brands to drive meaningful societal and cultural impact, advancing causes such as sustainability, diversity, and inclusion.

Impact Marketing – Campaigns that deliver measurable business outcomes by strengthening brand relationships, enhancing customer experiences, and driving growth.

Media & Growth – Excellence in media strategy and execution, demonstrating how integrated media ecosystems effectively reach, engage, and grow audiences.

Creative & Innovation Impact – Breakthrough marketing powered by creativity, data, and emerging technologies to create new forms of brand engagement.

“Filipino marketers have a rare ability to turn ideas into movements, driven by one of the world’s most participatory digital cultures while pioneering  campaigns rooted in genuine consumer understanding that earn attention and deliver real business results SMARTIES™ 2026 is where that energy gets the global recognition it deserves.” says Rohit Dadwal, CEO of MMA APAC & Global Head of SMARTIES™ Worldwide.

Winning a SMARTIES™ Award puts the Philippine campaigns on the world map; featured in MMA SMARTIES Business Impact Index, RECMA, and the WARC Media 100 Ranking.

Submit Today!

Key Details

  • Deadline:Jul 9, 2026
  • Awards: Gold, Silver, Bronze; top honors include Best in Show, Juror’s Choice Award of the Year, Most Resilient Brand of the Year, Advertiser of the Year, National Advertiser of the Year (Country award), Brand of the Year, Local Brand of the Year (Country award), Publisher of the Year, Enabling Technology Company of the Year, Media Agency of the Year, Creative Agency of the Year, Independent Agency of the Year, Holding Agency Company of the Year, Agency Network of the Year (Regional /Global award), Specialist Agency of the Year
  • Entry Levels:

About MMA: The Marketing + Media Alliance is the global non-profit community of CMOs advancing marketers’ ability to create value, with 825+ members across 16 countries. mmaglobal.com

About SMARTIES™:

SMARTIES™ is the prestigious marketing awards program hosted by MMA, recognizing excellence in marketing effectiveness and innovation. The SMARTIES Awards celebrate campaigns that push creative boundaries while delivering measurable business impact. With programs spanning local, regional, and global markets, SMARTIES has become the industry’s most respected benchmark for marketing that drives real growth.