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Geely’s Eric Li Wears AR Glasses to Speak at Global Investment Promotion Conference in Shanghai

SHANGHAI, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — “For today’s speech, I implanted the speech script into my glasses.” Eric Li, chairman of Geely Holding Group and founder of DreamSmart, said with a smile at the 2025 Shanghai Global Investment Promotion Conference held on March 25th.


As a leading figure in China’s tech and automobile industry, Eric Li’s appearance is particularly striking – he wore a pair of StarV Air2 smart glasses on stage, the whole “off-script” speech. The glasses not only project the speech in real time on the lenses, but also synchronize the content according to the speed of speech.

The glasses come from none other than Geely eco-company Meizu. As a technology company, Meizu has redefined the future of interaction with AR+AI technology, and Geely has the next generation of human-machine interaction products.

As a key platform to promote the construction of Shanghai’s “five centers”, this year’s Shanghai Global Investment Promotion Conference attracted more than 500 domestic and foreign well-known enterprises, investment institutions and representatives of business associations gathered together. the first four sessions have contributed to the signing of more than 580 major projects, with a total investment of more than 1.1 trillion yuan.

In this stage for global enterprises to share opportunities, Eric Li attracted the attention of global investors with a technological speech, showing Meizu’s innovative strength and product charm. From the perspective of the conference as a whole, the “newness” of this scene is far more than just a display of technology, but also reflects the courage and confidence of entrepreneurs to physically promote the development of science and technology.

Eric Li’s AR glasses and Shanghai has an inextricable link. “I’m wearing this pair of smart AR glasses today, the core technology research and development team and the core supply chain are in Shanghai, has been mass-produced for two generations and has been verified by tens of thousands of consumers.” Meizu’s deep cooperation with the industry’s TOP-level supply chain partners has resulted in the debut and first use of many industry-leading products, leading the development trend of the smart glasses industry.

StarV Air2 has been mass-produced and optimized through two generations of products, serving more than 50,000 users cumulatively, and is a phenomenal product in the AR field. In addition to supporting the teleprompter function that has recently flamed out of the circle.It also supports AI real-time translation, AR navigation, AI meeting assistant and other functions. StarVee Phantom researches its own Flyme AI big model, and in addition to accessing the head third party big model such as Tongyi Thousand Questions, Byte Beanbag, and Wenxin Yiyin, it is also the first to access the DeepSeek big model, and is actively building a comprehensive AI ecosystem.

StarV Air2 adopts a highly difficult optical waveguide program, and after two generations of iteration, the product power is leading generation to generation. Not long ago, iResearch released the “2024 Consumer AR Glasses Market Report”, which researched the five most powerful companies in the smart glasses industry and put forward the concept of “Five AR Glasses Giants”, with Meizu at the top of this.

The iResearch also pointed out that in the first quarter since the release of the StarV series of products in September last year, the market share quickly reached 41.5%, and the sales volume in the AR category was the first in the country, directly pulling the industry sales growth.

Meizu is the only enterprise with a full ecological layout in the AR glasses industry. As an important part of Meizu’s “smart phone + XR + smart car” business layout, AR smart glasses can be interconnected with smartphones, smart cars and other terminals through Flyme AIOS, and jointly build a multi-terminal, full-scene, immersive and integrated experience for consumers.

Meizu’s convergent AI ecology has been widely welcomed by users, and the results of the ecological layout have been initially seen: in 2025, Meizu has won “three firsts in China” – the first in the sales growth rate of AI cell phones, the first in the market share of smart glasses, and the first in the number of listed models and the first in the growth rate of users in a single month of the intelligent cockpit operating system, and has covered more than 600,000 car owner users. Flyme Auto is the first in the number of listed models and the first in the growth rate of users in a single month, and it has already covered more than 600,000 car owners and users, and is firmly in the first camp of the automobile system.

It’s worth to mention that Meizu is the smartphone brand of DreamSmart Group, which carries AI eco-products in three product areas, which are smartphones, XR and smart cars. With deep technological expertise in multiple industries, DreamSmart is recognized as a leader in smart ecosystems.

Meizu took the lead in proposing the “All in AI” strategy at the beginning of 2024, and has made every effort to promote the application of AI at the product level, bringing users a brand-new integration experience. Looking ahead, Meizu’s practicality, innovation and leadership in application scenarios will paint a new picture of the global smart mobility ecosystem.

NUS expands start-up hub in Tokyo to propel deep tech innovation

  • BLOCK71 Tokyo, its second office in Japan, opens at TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY, the country’s latest global innovation hub.
  • NUS collaborates with Japanese partners, who will invest about ¥1 billion to spur global venture creation.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 March 2025 NUS Enterprise, the entrepreneurial arm of the National University of Singapore (NUS), is expanding its presence in Japan with the launch of its second BLOCK71 office in Tokyo today. This follows the successful opening of its first location in Nagoya in November 2024. In collaboration with key partners, Central Japan Innovation Capital (CJIC), Kyoto University, and TIS Inc., NUS Enterprise aims to support start-ups, researchers, and students while connecting them with investors. These partnerships align with Japan’s efforts to accelerate the growth of its start-up ecosystem[1].

Located at TAKANAWA GATEWAY Link Scholars’ Hub, BLOCK71 Tokyo will support the growth of Southeast Asian technology-driven start-ups in Japan, contributing to the urban development’s focus on environmental sustainability, mobility and robotics, and smart health. It will also provide Japanese start-ups with the resources needed to expand into Southeast Asia and beyond.

“Japan’s strong foundation in technology and research makes it an ideal environment for start-up growth. It ranks among the world’s top three countries for patent applications and invests over three percent of its GDP in R&D, one of the highest globally. This creates immense potential for innovation. With BLOCK71 Tokyo located in the country’s latest innovation hub, we have a strategic platform to connect start-ups and drive cross-border collaboration. To amplify our impact, we are partnering one of Japan’s top universities, a major corporation, and a leading venture capital firm, all sharing our vision to foster deep tech innovation and build a robust global ecosystem,” said Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS President, at the opening of BLOCK71 Tokyo.

Professor Tan was joined by Dr Tan Sian Wee, NUS Senior Vice President, Innovation and Enterprise; Associate Professor Benjamin Tee, Vice President (Ecosystem Building), NUS Enterprise; Mr Hiroyuki Takeshima, Executive Officer, East Japan Railway Company (JR East); and Mr Kikukawa Jingo, Director-General, Innovation and Environment Policy Bureau, Ministry of Economy Trade and Industry[JO1] at the opening of BLOCK71 Tokyo.

Building innovation ecosystems through strategic partnerships

Building on the success of its globally recognised BLOCK71 model, BLOCK71 Tokyo will promote knowledge exchange, cross-border innovation, and new opportunities for start-ups entering the Japanese market. To deepen its impact, NUS has inked three new partnerships.

NUS-Central Japan Innovation Capital collaboration

Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by Assoc Prof Tee and Professor Kazuya Takeda, CJIC CEO, CJIC will invest up to five percent of its assets under management in NUS-affiliated deep tech start-ups. The fund aims to raise approximately ¥5 billion by the end of its fundraising, expected in November 2025. A subsidiary of the Tokai National Higher Education and Research System, CJIC supports university start-ups focused on deep tech innovation. NUS and CJIC will also explore broader collaboration opportunities to help start-ups from both ecosystems expand into the Japanese and Southeast Asian markets.

NUS-Kyoto University collaboration

Beyond funding, NUS is enhancing entrepreneurial support for deep tech start-ups through its partnership with Kyoto University, formalised by an MOU signed by Prof Tan and Dr Nagahiro Minato, Kyoto University President. As a first step, Kyoto University will send start-ups to join the NUS Graduate Research Innovation Programme (NUS GRIP). They will also become the first overseas university partner in a localised version of the programme. This will empower Kyoto University’s graduate students, researchers, and alumni to transform research into impactful deep tech ventures, addressing some of the social challenges in Asia and seizing new opportunities.

Both universities will also offer exchange programmes to foster cross-border entrepreneurial experiences. Kyoto University students will have the opportunity to intern at NUS GRIP start-ups, while NUS GRIP start-ups can gain hands-on experience from Kyoto University Innovation Capital Co., Ltd (Kyoto-iCAP), the university’s venture capital arm. This partnership enhances the flow of entrepreneurial talent and deepen innovation ties between the two countries, further boosting their deep tech ecosystems.

NUS-TIS Inc. collaboration

NUS is expanding its global entrepreneurship efforts through a partnership with TIS Inc., one of Japan’s leading IT companies, to build a globally connected start-up ecosystem. This collaboration, formalised through a Collaboration Agreement signed by Prof Tan and Mr Yasushi Okamoto, TIS Inc. Group President, launches the Deep Tech Seed to A Growth Expansion Programme (Deep-SAGE), a tailored start-up acceleration initiative to help seed-stage start-ups worldwide scale towards pre-Series A and Series A funding.

TIS Inc. will commit a total of ¥840 million to support Deep-SAGE over the next three years. This will include three cohorts, each comprising up to 10 start-ups. As part of this commitment, TIS Inc. plans to invest a minimum of ¥55 million each in at least two start-ups per cohort.

BLOCK71 will design and deliver the programme, providing structured support through virtual mentorship sessions and workshops. Start-ups will also have incubation opportunities at BLOCK71 offices across 11 cities, including Singapore, Silicon Valley, Saigon and Suzhou, drawing on a global network that supports international market entry and commercial opportunities.

Through these strategic collaborations, NUS reinforces its position as a leading start-up university in the global innovation landscape, nurturing entrepreneurial mindsets and empowering the next generation of technology entrepreneurs.

Deepening market immersion and cultural exchange in Tokyo

Following the success of its second Japan Immersion Programme in Nagoya held in 2024, where start-ups gained insights into Japan’s manufacturing powerhouse, BLOCK71 Japan will launch the third edition in Tokyo in May 2025. The 2024 programme provided start-ups with a deeper understanding of Japan’s culturally distinct landscape, helping them build connections with local partners, secure new customers, and develop new proof-of-concept projects.

The 2025 edition will focus on the three key themes of TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY: environmental sustainability, mobility and robotics, and smart health. It will welcome five Southeast Asian start-ups, who will have the opportunity to showcase their solutions at the upcoming GATEWAY Tech TAKANAWA event — a platform for large corporations and start-ups to exchange innovative ideas and solutions. This immersive experience will further strengthen ties between Southeast Asia and Japan, equipping start-ups with the knowledge and networks they need to enter new markets and drive innovation.


[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/japan/2025/02/11/japans-newest-startups-are-revitalizing-regional-economies/

Annexe – Quotes by representatives

“As a sub-subsidiary of the Tokai National Higher Education and Research System, CJIC has strong commitment to support university start-ups focused on deep tech innovation and enhance the central Japan economy. NUS and CJIC will also explore broader collaboration opportunities to help start-ups from both ecosystems expand into the Japanese and Southeast Asian markets.”

Dr Kazuya Takeda, Central Japan Innovation Capital CEO

“NUS and Kyoto University have been collaborating in the field of basic research for some time, but with the signing of this MOU, we will build a new relationship in the field of industry-academia collaboration.”

Dr Nagahiro Minato, Kyoto University President

“Our collaboration with NUS under the Deep-SAGE programme demonstrates TIS Inc.’s unwavering belief in the power of innovation. With this investment, we are poised to accelerate the growth of deep tech start-ups worldwide. This initiative not only reinforces our commitment to global entrepreneurship but also sets the stage for a new era of technology-driven growth.”

Mr Yasushi Okamoto, TIS Inc. Group President

“RoPlus participated in the Japan Immersion Programme organised by BLOCK71 Japan in 2024, which proved to be a fruitful experience. We had the opportunity to engage in individual meetings with stakeholders, including end-users and potential investors. Additionally, we showcased our products at Messe Nagoya, where we connected with various industry partners and increased market awareness. Through this programme, we successfully secured a distributor for the Japanese market and engaged two potential end-users. I would like to thank BLOCK71 Japan for fostering a supportive ecosystem and providing a strategic platform for NUS spin-offs to enter the Japanese market.”

Mr Low Jin Huat, RoPlus Co-Founder

“The Japan Immersion Programme from NUS helped me make valuable connections with Japanese companies. We were able to secure a pilot project with one of the companies we met during this programme. It has helped us shape our strategy for entering the Japanese market.”

Mr Zaid Ahmed Khan, M.I. Cloud Technologies CEO

Hashtag: #NUS

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

About National University of Singapore (NUS)

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is Singapore’s flagship university, which offers a global approach to education, research and entrepreneurship, with a focus on Asian perspectives and expertise. We have 16 colleges, faculties and schools across three campuses in Singapore, with more than 40,000 students from 100 countries enriching our vibrant and diverse campus community. We have also established more than 20 NUS Overseas Colleges entrepreneurial hubs around the world.

Our multidisciplinary and real-world approach to education, research and entrepreneurship enables us to work closely with industry, governments and academia to address crucial and complex issues relevant to Asia and the world. Researchers in our faculties, research centres of excellence, corporate labs and more than 30 university-level research institutes focus on themes that include energy; environmental and urban sustainability; treatment and prevention of diseases; active ageing; advanced materials; risk management and resilience of financial systems; Asian studies; and Smart Nation capabilities such as artificial intelligence, data science, operations research and cybersecurity.

For more information on NUS, please visit .

About NUS Enterprise

NUS Enterprise, the entrepreneurial arm of the National University of Singapore (NUS), plays a pivotal role in advancing innovation and entrepreneurship at NUS and beyond. We actively promote entrepreneurship and cultivate global mind-sets and talents through the synergies of experiential learning, active industry partnerships, holistic entrepreneurship support and catalytic entrepreneurship outreach. Our initiatives and global connections support a range of entrepreneurial journeys and foster ecosystem building in new markets. We provide expertise and connections to create successful spin-offs and translate innovations into the marketplace through industry collaboration. These initiatives augment and complement the University’s academic programmes and act as a unique bridge to industries well beyond Singapore’s shores.

For more information on NUS Enterprise, please visit .

About BLOCK71

BLOCK71 is an initiative by NUS Enterprise in collaborative and strategic partnerships with established corporates and government agencies. It is a technology-focused ecosystem builder and global connector which catalyses and aggregates the start-up community. In Singapore, we spearhead new initiatives and provide mentorship and growth opportunities in key local, regional and global markets.

For more information on BLOCK71, please visit .

About TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY

Carrying on in the tradition of its past as a gateway to Edo (now known as Tokyo) and a history of innovation that began with Japan’s first railways, TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY will be an experimental site to create enriching lives for the next 100 years, where the creation of new culture and business continue under the concept of a Global Gateway.

THE LINKPILLAR 1 and the area around Takanawa Gateway Station open at the end of FY2024 (March 2025), with the other buildings (THE LINKPILLAR 2, MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives, and TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY RESIDENCE) and the surrounding areas to open in FY2025. JR East will continue developing the Shinagawa Development Project to enhance the value of Shinagawa Station area (Shinagawa Station North Exit and Shinagawa Station Block).

For more information on TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY, please visit .

About TAKANAWA GATEWAY Link Scholars’ Hub

TAKANAWA GATEWAY Link Scholars’ Hub (LiSH) is the facilities for a start-up ecosystem in TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY with diverse human resources and systems that support over 100 start-ups. It aims to create solutions to social issues around the world and implement them in society by collaborating with diverse and cutting-edge knowledge, analysing data using the city data platform (city-OS) including railway data, and providing a variety of financial support.

For more information on LiSH, please visit .

MEXC Announces Listing of Kinto (K) with Massive 12,800 K & 50,000 USDT Prize Pool

VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is excited to announce the upcoming listing of Kinto (K) on March 31, 2025. To celebrate, MEXC is launching exclusive events with a combined prize pool of 12,800 K & 50,000 USDT in bonuses, offering traders the opportunity to earn substantial rewards while engaging with the Kinto ecosystem.

MEXC Announces Listing of Kinto (K) with Massive 12,800 K & 50,000 USDT Prize Pool
MEXC Announces Listing of Kinto (K) with Massive 12,800 K & 50,000 USDT Prize Pool

Kinto is a modular exchange (MEX) that combines the advantages of both centralized (CEX) and decentralized exchanges (DEX), offering users a compliant and seamless trading experience. Founded by a team of blockchain developers and financial experts, Kinto operates on a strong community governance model that enables users to actively shape the platform’s future.

The K token ($K) serves as both the governance and utility token within the Kinto ecosystem, granting holders governance rights, staking opportunities, and rewards for participation.

To celebrate the listing of Kinto (K), MEXC has launched a series of exciting events with low entry requirements and a simple participation process, ensuring that users with different needs can easily join and share generous rewards.

Below are the key details of the events:

MEXC has established itself as an industry leader by consistently providing users with early access to promising Web3 projects. In 2024, MEXC introduced 2,376 new tokens, with 1,716 of those being initial listings. According to the latest TokenInsight report, MEXC leads the industry with the highest number of spot listings, at 461, and the fastest listing speed. Additionally, the exchange consistently adds new tokens in bi-weekly cycles, showcasing its exceptional ability to capture market trends quickly.

Looking ahead, MEXC will continue to enhance its platform by providing advantages such as low fees, deep liquidity, a wide selection of trending tokens, and daily airdrops, enabling traders to access high-potential projects early, receive generous rewards, and enjoy an optimal trading experience.

For full event details and participation rules, visit here.

About MEXC

Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 34 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.

MEXC Official Website X Telegram |How to Sign Up on MEXC

Risk Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article regarding cryptocurrencies does not constitute investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully assess market fluctuations, the fundamentals of projects, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

Viva Biotech’s Wholly-Owned Subsidiary Langhua Pharmaceutical Successfully Passes U.S. FDA On-Site Inspection

SHANGHAI, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Zhejiang Langhua Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“Langhua Pharmaceutical”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Viva Biotech Holdings (“Viva Biotech”), underwent a cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) on-site inspection by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”), and received the EIR (Establishment Inspection Report) from the FDA. This is the fourth time that Langhua Pharmaceutical has undergone and passed the on-site inspection by the FDA, indicating the effective operation of the Company’s quality control system. It also enables the Company to offer globally customized research, development, and production services to pharmaceutical enterprises worldwide.

In the second half of 2024, Langhua Pharmaceutical has undergone the on-site inspection by the FDA which covered six major systems, namely, quality system, materials, production, packaging and labeling system, equipment and facilities, and laboratory control.

After more than a decade of dedicated growth, Langhua Pharmaceutical has become a one-stop CDMO solution for small molecule drug. The company offers comprehensive solutions spanning from Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) to Finished Dosage Form (FDF), from pre-clinical to commercial supply, covering the entire lifecycle with efficient, flexible, and high-quality CDMO services. Langhua’s innovative R&D network spans three strategic centers situated in Shanghai, Ningbo, and Taizhou, collectively offering over 13,000 square meters of laboratory space and a team of over 700 researchers. The company has established comprehensive quality management systems, EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety) protocols, and intellectual property protection mechanisms. To date, Langhua Pharmaceutical has passed audits and certifications from leading authorities including China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), the FDA, the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines (EDQM), Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA), and the World Health Organization (WHO). Additionally, it has also passed the PSCI audit. Langhua Pharmaceutical has contributed to more than 20 new drugs launches in the past years, with a product line that spans oncology, HIV, diabetes, and cardiovascular fields, showcasing a strong track record of successful deliveries.

Dr. Cheney Mao, Chairman and CEO of Viva Biotech Holdings, stated: “We are glad to see Langhua Pharmaceutical passing the FDA cGMP on-site inspection again, demonstrating that our quality management system and production environment facilities consistently meet international standards, providing a solid foundation for our further expansion into the international market. In the future, we will continue to promote the construction of CDMO production capacity and deepen the synergy between CRO and CDMO businesses to empower the development and production of new drugs for more global partners.”

Mr. Weidong Zhang, Senior Vice President of Viva Biotech, Executive Vice President and Manufactory General Manager of Langhua Pharmaceutical, expressed: “We are delighted that Langhua Pharmaceutical has once again gained FDA recognition. We always uphold the principle that GMP compliance is the ‘bottom line’ that Langhua must adhere to, implementing comprehensive quality control at every stage from raw materials to finished products. In the future, Langhua Pharmaceutical will sustain to adhere to a meticulous quality management philosophy, continuously enhancing its innovative R&D capabilities to provide higher-quality and more reliable CDMO services to global clients.”

About Viva Biotech

Established in 2008, Viva Biotech (01873.HK) provides one-stop services ranging from early-stage Structure-Based Drug R&D to commercial manufacturing to global biopharmaceutical innovators. We offer leading early-stage to late-phase drug discovery expertise by integrating our dedicated team of experts, cutting-edge technology platforms, and state-of-the-art equipment in X-ray crystallization, Cryo-EM, DEL, ASMS, SPR, HDX, AIDD/CADD, and much more. Our business covers all aspects of therapeutic strategies and drug modalities, including small molecules and biologics across the pharma and biotech spectrum. The experienced chemistry team, led by senior medicinal chemists and drug discovery biologists, provides services for drug design, medicinal chemistry (hit to lead and lead optimization), custom synthesis, chemical analysis and purification, kilogram scale-up, peptide synthesis and corresponding bioassays. With our subsidiary, Langhua Pharma, we offer our worldwide pharmaceutical and biotech partners a one-stop integrated CMC (Chemical, Manufacturing, and Control) service from preclinical to commercial manufacturing. Additionally, Viva embedded an equity for service (EFS) model to high potential startups to address unmet medical needs.

About Langhua

Zhejiang Langhua Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, is a comprehensive pharmaceutical company engaged in research and development, production, marketing, and sourcing of pharmaceutical products. As the subsidiary of Viva Biotech Holdings, the leading enterprise in the field of innovative drug discovery, we offer our worldwide partners a One-Stop CDMO solution in new drugs’ entire life cycle for small molecule Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and Finished Dosage Form (FDF), from pre-clinical to commercial supply.

KIBEX 2025: Revitalizing the Market with a Global Beer Platform

SEOUL, South Korea, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Korea International Beer Expo (KIBEX) 2025 will take place from April 10 to 12 at COEX, Seoul. It will serve as a key platform for revitalizing the stagnant market. This year, KIBEX is set to bring together industry leaders, brewers, and suppliers worldwide to explore the latest trends and innovations in the beer sector.

A scene from the entrance of KIBEX 2024
A scene from the entrance of KIBEX 2024

Building on last year’s success, KIBEX 2025 will feature dedicated national pavilions from the United States and Brazil, highlighting the growing international participation and collaborative efforts in the global beer industry. This expansion underscores KIBEX’s role as a premier B2B networking and market expansion event for the beer and brewing industry.

KIBCON 2025: A Global Perspective on Beer Trends

The Korea Beer International Conference (KIBCON) will newly present a comprehensive overview of beer trends for 2025 from key global markets, including the United States, Brazil, Belgium, and Korea. Industry associations from these countries will introduce fresh insights into market trends, consumer preferences, and brewing innovations. Furthermore, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest raw material innovations specifically developed to meet the evolving demands of the beer industry.

KIBA 2025: Elevating the Standard of Global Beer Competitions

The Korea Beer International Award (KIBA) continues to grow as a prestigious competition in the industry. Last year, KIBA attracted 347 beers from 76 breweries across 16 countries, judged by a distinguished panel of international experts. In 2025, the competition aims to showcase over 400 beers from breweries worldwide, further solidifying its reputation as a leading global beer competition. Breweries interested in participating can register their beers by February 28 at www.kiba.kr.

Strengthening Business Programs with New Initiatives

To further enhance its business-oriented approach, KIBEX 2025 expands upon its existing business programs, including the new product showcase and business matching program, by introducing two additional programs:

Brew It Yourself: A newly launched homebrewing academy designed to cultivate homebrewers and contribute to expanding both the domestic and international beer markets.

The Brew-In Tour: A guided docent tour providing industry professionals with in-depth knowledge about beer, brewing equipment, and raw materials. This initiative seeks to enhance the quality of the beer industry by fostering a deeper understanding of brewing processes and innovations.

As the hub of Asia’s beer industry, KIBEX 2025 will also offer specialized business packages for beer industry professionals across the region, facilitating valuable networking and collaboration opportunities.

Drink Seoul: A Celebration of Traditional and Global Spirits

Running concurrently with KIBEX 2025, Drink Seoul will showcase domestic and international distilled spirits, traditional liquors, and wines. This event provides a unique platform for industry professionals and consumers to explore the rich heritage of conventional spirits alongside innovative global brands.

Notably, Korea’s traditional distilled spirits will be represented by Andong-City, offering attendees an authentic experience of Korea’s historic soju and other heritage liquors. Additionally, Drink Seoul will feature a selection of global distilled spirits, providing an unparalleled opportunity to experience the fusion of tradition and modernity in the spirits industry.

With these initiatives, KIBEX 2025 is set to strengthen its position as Asia’s leading beer industry platform, bringing together key stakeholders, fostering innovation, and driving market growth. Additionally, KIBEX will invite craft breweries and buyers from across Asia, expanding its reach beyond the region to establish itself as a truly global platform for the beer industry. For more information and registration details, visit www.en.beerexpo.kr.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EjLRMter9E

ARLO Unveils All-New Universal Solar Panel with Enhanced Compatibility

Arlo Introduces the Universal Solar Panel, designed to be compatible with more Arlo cameras and floodlights


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 March 2025 – Arlo Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: ARLO), a leading brand in smart home security, is thrilled to introduce its latest security camera accessory to the Hong Kong market—the Arlo Universal Solar Panel. Designed for broader compatibility than previous models, this versatile solar panel works seamlessly with more Arlo cameras and floodlights, ensuring continuous power and enhanced security. With a recommended price at just R.R.P. HK$418, it delivers 24/7 smart home protection at exceptional value, especially for Pro 5 and Ultra 2 customers.

The Arlo Universal Solar Panel takes the guesswork out of choosing the right solar accessory by offering multiple connectors, making it easier for customers to find the perfect fit for their Arlo cameras and floodlights. Its greater compatibility, also simplifies things for retailers, as they only need to stock and recommend a single model for a wide range of Arlo products. By reducing the complexity for both consumers and retailers, the Universal Solar Panel, aims to minimise returns and provide a better overall experience.

Key features of the Universal Solar Panel include:

  • Powered by the Sun: Use solar power to keep your Arlo wire-free cameras and floodlights powered.
  • Enhanced Compatibility: Compatible with battery powered Arlo Essential series, Go 2 series, Pro 3 series and above, Ultra series, and wireless Floodlights.
  • Continuous Charging: Stay powered and connected without needing to remove the battery.
  • Weather-Resistant Design: Built to withstand the elements, the Universal Solar Panel is durable and ready for outdoor conditions.

The Universal Solar Panel is available for purchase late March via the Arlo website and major retail partners.

For more information on the full range of Arlo smart home security products and services, visit https://www.arlo.com/hk/.Hashtag: #Arlo

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

About Arlo Technologies, Inc.

Arlo is an award-winning, industry leader that is transforming the ways in which people can protect everything that matters to them with advanced home, business, and personal security solutions. Arlo’s deep expertise in AI- and CV-powered analytics, cloud services, user experience and product design, and innovative wireless and RF connectivity enables the delivery of a seamless, smart security experience for Arlo users that is easy to set up and interact with every day. Arlo’s cloud-based platform provides users with visibility, insight, and a powerful means to help protect and connect in real-time with the people and things that matter most, from any location with a Wi-Fi or a cellular connection. Arlo has recently launched several categories of award-winning connected devices, software, and services. These include wire-free, smart Wi-Fi and LTE-enabled security cameras, video doorbells, floodlights, security system, and Arlo’s subscription services: Arlo Secure and Arlo Safe.

With a mission to bring users peace of mind, Arlo is as passionate about protecting user privacy as it is about safeguarding homes and families. Arlo is committed to implementing industry standards for data protection designed to keep users’ personal information private and in their control. Arlo provides enhanced controls for user data, supports privacy legislation, keeps user data safely secure, and puts security at the forefront of company culture.

IOT Data Hackathon 2025, Sparkling Innovation through Real-World Data, Technology and Cross-Sector Collaboration

HONG KONG, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Organised by GS1 Hong Kong, co-organised by Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, and supported by the Digital Policy Office, the IOT Data Hackathon 2025 successfully concluded its final competition on 22-23 March 2025.

Themed “Smart Business” and “Smart Living“, the IOT Data Hackathon 2025 brought together enterprises, tech talent, and academic elites to tackle real-world business challenges through cross-sector collaboration and data-driven innovation. This year’s Hackathon garnered even greater enthusiasm than last year, attracting over 90 teams from local tertiary institutions, start-ups, and business sectors. After a rigorous screening process, 24 outstanding teams advanced to the final round, competing head-to-head on 23 March, the Final Pitch Day. 

Key Highlights

1. Fostering a Cross-Sector Ecosystem, Cultivating Talent through Practical Experience
A standout feature of the IOT Data Hackathon was its success in driving cross-sector collaboration. Six leading corporations — including Airport Authority Hong Kong, AS Watson Industries, CUHK Medical Centre, HKT, Maxim’s Caterers, and Swire Coca-Cola — provided real life business challenges and relevant datasets. Tech partners, Alibaba Cloud, AWS and Esri China (Hong Kong), offered technology platforms, tools and application support, enabling participating teams to develop commercially viable and innovative solutions by leveraging the provided datasets, open data and advanced technologies. 

2. Judges Applaud Data-Driven Innovation 
A panel of 12 distinguished judges highly praised the participants for their exceptional performance, highlighting their ability to combine data and technology while aligning with ESG trends. The judges emphasised the Hackathon’s role in unlocking the transformative potential of data-driven decision-making. The panel looks forward to the continued promotion of such collaborative models, which not only accelerate the growth of Hong Kong’s tech ecosystem, but also cultivate a new generation of talent to meet future opportunities and challenges.

3. Comprehensive Pre-hackathon Training with Top-tier Resource Support
To equip participants with practical skills, the organiser hosted 7 professional training workshops from Jan to Mar, covering hot topics such as IoT technology, artificial intelligence (AI) applications, data standards, cybersecurity, design thinking, data storytelling, pitching skills, and ESG strategies, etc. Additionally, GS1 HK invited 24 expert mentors from various fields to guide the participating teams, while Check Point Software Technologies provided one-on-one consultations to help teams integrate robust cybersecurity measures and data protection into their solutions.

The Data-driven Era: Cultivating Future Tech Talent

As artificial intelligence and data analytics become increasingly integral to businesses, mastering data application skills has become a critical asset for future talent. This Hackathon provided participants with an invaluable platform for practical experience and learning, stimulating creativity through competition and fostering a deeper connection between data-driven thinking and business needs. The participating teams demonstrated remarkable prowess in data integration and innovative thinking, and proposed diverse solutions to real corporate challenges. 

Ms. Anna Lin, Chief Executive of GS1 HK, emphasised: “IoT data is the cornerstone of a smart economy. By connecting young talent directly with industry pain points, this Hackathon fuels Hong Kong’s digital transformation and drives momentum for the city’s innovation journey.” 

Award Ceremony: Winners to be Announced at the InnoEX 2025 

The award ceremony will take place on April 13, 2025, at InnoEX 2025, where the winning teams and their innovative solutions will be unveiled. All sectors are invited to witness this celebration of data, technology, and creativity! 

Award Ceremony Details:

  • Date: 13 April 2025, Sunday
  • Time: 10:45am to 12:00nn
  • Venue: The Stage, Hall 3C, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
  • Event: IOT Data Hackathon 2025 Award Ceremony (held within the InnoEX 2025)

For more information about the IOT Data Hackathon 2025, please visit www.gs1hk.org/iotdatahackathon.

About GS1 Hong Kong

Founded by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce in 1989, GS1 Hong Kong (GS1 HK) is the local chapter of GS1®, a not-for-profit, global organisation that brings industry stakeholders together to develop standards-based solutions to address the challenges of data exchange. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, GS1® has more than 115 national chapters serving 150 economies globally.

GS1 HK aims to empower industry’s digital transformation by enabling businesses to improve efficiency, safety, authenticity and sustainability through platforms, solutions and services based on our global standards. GS1 HK is dedicated to building a collaborative IoT ecosystem in Hong Kong to promote the development of ICT, serving as a bridge between ICT solution providers, users, government and other stakeholders, realising the community’s vision to become a smart city.

GS1 HK currently supports over 8,000 corporate members from various sectors including retail & consumer packaged goods, healthcare, food & beverage and food services, apparel & footwear, transport & logistics, among others.

For more information, please visit www.gs1hk.org

For high-resolution photo, please download via this link.

Strong 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Central Myanmar, Felt in Laos

People stand outside an office building in Bangkok on March 28, 2025 after an earthquake. A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit central Myanmar on March 28, with tremors felt south into Thailand, with residents in the capital Bangkok runing into the streets as buildings shook. (Photo by Candida NG / AFP)

UPDATED on 28 March at 2:33 PM

AFP- A powerful earthquake rocked central Myanmar on 28 March, buckling roads in capital Naypyidaw, damaging buildings and forcing people to flee into the streets in neighbouring Thailand.

The 7.7-magnitude tremor hit northwest of the city of Sagaing on Friday afternoon at a shallow depth, the United States Geological Survey said. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock hit the same area minutes later.

“I heard it and I was sleeping in the house, I ran as far as I could in my pajamas out of the building,” Duangjai, a resident of the popular northern Thailand tourist city Chiang Mai, told AFP.

Chunks of ceilings fell from buildings and roads buckled in Myanmar capital Naypyidaw, a sprawling, purpose-built city with highways up to 20 lanes wide, according to AFP journalists.

A team of AFP journalists were at the National Museum in Naypyidaw when the earthquake struck and the building began shaking.

Pieces fell from the ceiling and walls cracked as uniformed staff ran outside, some of them trembling and tearful, others grabbing cellphones to try to contact loved ones.

The ground vibrated violently for around half a minute before settling.

There were no immediate reports of casualties after the quakes but they caused panic in nearby cities in northern Thailand and down to capital Bangkok.

Sai, a 76-year-old Chiang Mai resident, was working at a minimart when the shop started the shake.

“I quickly rushed out of the shop along with other customers,” he said. “This is the strongest tremor I’ve experienced in my life.”

Buildings Damaged

The quake damaged buildings in Bangkok and forced the suspension of some metro and light rail services in the city.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said on Friday she had interrupted an official visit to the southern island of Phuket to hold an “urgent meeting” after the quake, according to a post on X.

Tremors were also felt in China’s southwest Yunnan province, according to Beijing’s quake agency, which said the jolt measured 7.9 in magnitude.

Earthquakes are relatively common in Myanmar, where six strong quakes of 7.0 magnitude or more struck between 1930 and 1956 near the Sagaing Fault, which runs north to south through the center of the country, according to the USGS.

A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake in the ancient capital Bagan in central Myanmar killed three people in 2016, also toppling spires and crumbling temple walls at the tourist destination.

The breakneck pace of development in Myanmar’s cities, combined with crumbling infrastructure and poor urban planning, has also made the country’s most populous areas vulnerable to earthquakes and other disasters, experts say.

The impoverished Southeast Asian nation has a strained medical system, especially in its rural states.