Finance · SaaS
HONG KONG, Sep 1, 2026 - China Risun Group Limited ("China Risun" or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"; Stock Code: 1907.HK), a leading global integrated producer and supplier of coke, coking chemicals, refined chemicals and new energy (including hydrogen energy) products, as well as a relevant operation management services provider, recently announced its unaudited interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2026. During the reporting period, the Group recorded revenue of approximately RMB21,856 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 5.2%; profit for the period reached RMB244.4 million, a substantial surge of 376.0% year-on-year; basic earnings per share was RMB4.77 cents, a sharp increase of 736.8% year-on-year. The board of directors declared an interim dividend of RMB1.44 cents per share, a significant increase of 620% compared to RMB0.20 cents per share in the same period last year, with a dividend payout ratio of not less than 30% of the profit attributable to owners of the Company for the period.
Financial Performance: Overall Improvement in Profit Quality, with Gross Margin and Cash Flow Both Enhanced
In terms of profit quality, the Group's gross profit margin increased from 8.1% in the same period last year to 10.6%, with gross profit reaching RMB2,311 million, up 37.7% year-on-year. Profit from operations was RMB1,057 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 34.0%. Net cash generated from operating activities amounted to RMB2,527 million, up 35.8% year-on-year, indicating continuous improvement in cash flow. EBITDA margin increased from 8.9% to 9.8%, and return on equity surged from 0.4% to 3.4%. All core financial indicators improved across the board, reflecting the Group's significant enhancement in operational resilience and profit recovery capability amid industry cyclical fluctuations. In terms of cost control, the Group's selling and distribution expenses as a percentage of revenue remained stable at around 3.5%, while administrative expenses decreased by 8.9% year-on-year to RMB511 million, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Group's continuous efforts in cost reduction and efficiency enhancement.
All Business Segments Jointly Driven, Coke Overseas Dual Engines, Refined Chemicals Blossoming in Multiple Areas
Revenue from the coke and coking chemicals production business increased by 9.6% year-on-year to RMB6,966 million, mainly benefiting from the average selling price of coke rising by 11.3% year-on-year to RMB1,515 per ton. Leveraging its 31 years of accumulated coal blending technology advantages, the Group effectively maintained the coal-coke price spread at above RMB300 per ton, driving the segment's gross profit margin to a healthy level of 13.7%. During the period, coking coal prices rose in nine rounds and fell in two rounds, with a cumulative increase of RMB385/ton. Relying on its core competitive advantages in "sales-transportation-production-supply-R&D" accumulated over 31 years, the coking coal segment's operating revenue increased by 9.6% year-on-year, and gross profit increased by 10.5% year-on-year. Overseas business became an important growth engine. Risun Wei Shan (Indonesia) Limited recorded year-on-year increases in revenue, net profit attributable to the parent company owners, and sales volume of 976%, 1,854%, and 61%, respectively, benefiting from favorable factors such as global capacity growth from newly added and restarted blast furnaces, as well as India's cancellation of quota policies. With both sales volume and price rising, profitability significantly improved.
Revenue from the refined chemicals production business increased by 4.2% year-on-year to RMB9,475 million, gross profit increased by 41.4% year-on-year to RMB926 million, and gross profit margin rose from 7.2% to 9.8%. The average selling price of caprolactam increased by 13.3% year-on-year to RMB9,701 per ton. The industry's self-discipline in reducing production to maintain prices led to a recovery in both prices and profitability. The feedstock for methanol is coke oven gas, and its annual production capacity of 600,000 tons ranks first in the country. During the period, driven by reduced supply and increased demand, methanol prices rose, and the methanol-ammonia production line generated considerable profits. It is worth noting that the Group's self-developed innovative process route for 50,000 tons/year of hexamethylenediamine officially commenced production during the period and achieved full production and sales, with its quality widely recognized by downstream customers. The amino alcohol new material not only achieved year-on-year growth in sales volume and customer numbers, but also expanded its export markets to South America and Southeast Asia, further broadening its downstream application markets. It now supplies to the battery, carbon capture, electronic cleaning, high-end pharmaceutical, and cosmetics fields, continuously expanding its industry influence.
Revenue from the operation management services business increased by 46.2% year-on-year to RMB1,863 million, mainly due to the addition of the Wulong Magnesium Industry management and operation project during the period. As of the end of the reporting period, the Group provided operation management services to three coke producers and four refined chemicals producers, continuously consolidating its industry influence. The gross profit margin of the operation management business increased from 4.8% in the same period last year to 8.1%, mainly benefiting from the widened price spread of the Kangnaier aniline production line. Revenue from the trading business decreased by 20.2% year-on-year to RMB2,977 million, but gross profit increased by 116.8% year-on-year to RMB193 million, and gross profit margin rose from 2.4% to 6.5%, reflecting the remarkable results of the Group's strategy of proactively optimizing the trading business structure and reducing low-margin items, achieving the business goal of "reducing volume while increasing profit".
Energy New Business via Binhai Energy Acquisition,Anode Materials Grow 63.9%, Becoming the Biggest Highlight
During the period, the Group completed the acquisition of a 14.5% equity interest in Tianjin Binhai Energy & Development Co., Ltd. ("Binhai Energy"), strategically entering the new energy battery materials industry. Through an acting-in-concert arrangement, China Risun in aggregate controls approximately 23.82% of the voting rights of Binhai Energy, and consolidates its financial statements. Binhai Energy added production lines for green electricity, artificial graphite anodes, and anode materials, expanding the product value chain to six major categories and 63 products, including 58 chemical production lines, 14 coking production lines, 6 graphitization production lines, and 5 high-purity hydrogen production lines. The first phase of the nation's only 580MW power generation, grid, load, and storage project, with a capacity of 150MW, officially commenced grid-connection trial operation, further reducing costs and increasing efficiency, and enhancing the profitability of the new energy business segment.Relying on its Ulanqab industrial base, Binhai Energy has now built an artificial graphite anode production capacity exceeding 100,000 tons. The performance of the new energy products production business became the biggest highlight of the first half of 2026. Revenue from this segment increased by 122.9% year-on-year to RMB523million, and achieved a significant turnaround from a loss of RMB12.95 million in the same period last year to a profit of RMB58.26 million, with the gross profit margin turning from negative to positive at 11.1%. The production/processing volume of lithium battery anode materials was 42,000 tons, a year-on-year increase of 63.9%. Graphitization and anode material products not only achieved year-on-year growth in production capacity and sales volume, but revenue also increased by 78% year-on-year.
Meanwhile, the 200,000-tonne integrated project is expected to be fully completed and operational by the end of 2026, with full-year shipments projected to reach 130,000 tonnes. Concurrently, the supporting 580,000 kW (580 MW) "source-grid-load-storage" green power project is set to commence operation in phases within the year. With green power coverage exceeding 50%, this rare industry model not only significantly reduces production costs but also meets the carbon accounting requirements for exports. Additionally, the company is expanding into new anode materials, such as silicon-carbon and porous carbon, to perfect its full-category lithium battery materials portfolio.
Active Capital Operations, Ample Liquidity, Significant Increase in Shareholder Returns
In terms of capital operations, the Group completed the acquisition of Binhai Energy in April 2026, with a total consideration of RMB571.2 million;. This transaction constitutes an optimization of the equity structure within the same actual controller system, with the actual controller remaining unchanged. The parties have signed a concerted action agreement to exercise voting rights in a unified manner. Upon completion of the acquisition, the Group's synergistic strategy of 'overall development via the Hong Kong-listed platform and focus on new energy via the A-share platform' with its dual listing platforms has been officially implemented. This marks a key milestone in the Group's industrial layout of three growth poles: coke, chemicals, and new energy.
Meanwhile, in June, the Group introduced a strategic investor, Zhangzhou Gulei Port Economic Development Zone Guozhi Qixu Equity Investment Partnership (Limited Partnership), which injected RMB495 million into Hebei Risun Energy Co., Ltd. During the period, the Group repurchased 22,646,000 shares, involving a total consideration of approximately RMB41.94 million, and granted share awards for the second time to 600 eligible participants. As of the end of the period, the Group held 198,217,000 treasury shares. In terms of liquidity, as of June 30, 2026, the Group held cash and cash equivalents of RMB4,455 million, a significant increase from RMB1,589 million at the beginning of the year. Unutilized banking facilities amounted to RMB9,852 million, of which RMB7,626 million were unconditional credit, indicating ample liquidity reserves. The capital gearing ratio was 2.6 times, and the debt-to-asset ratio was 78.5%, with the overall financial structure being sound and controllable. In terms of shareholder returns, the board of directors declared an interim dividend of RMB1.44 cents per share, a substantial increase of 620% compared to RMB0.20 cents per share in the same period last year. The total dividend amount is approximately RMB61.23 million, with a dividend payout ratio of not less than 30% of the profit attributable to owners of the Company for the period, fully demonstrating the Group's determination to share development achievements with shareholders.
Outlook for the Second Half: Accelerating the Advancement of Silicon-Carbon Anode, Porous Carbon Materials, and Energy Storage Projects
Looking forward to the second half of 2026 and the seventh "Five-Year Plan" period, the Group stated that it will continue to advance the construction of the 2,000-ton/year silicon-carbon material production line, 1,000-ton/year porous carbon material production line, 20-ton/year integrated anode material production line, and the supporting second phase 430MW power generation, grid load, and energy storage project, further improving the product variety in the new energy battery materials field and strengthening the cost and supply chain advantages of "green electricity + materials". The new production capacity will provide strong support for the rapid ramp-up of the Group's third growth curve. Relying on the strategic framework of the seventh "Five-Year Plan", the Group will continuously increase its market share in the fields of coke, refined chemicals, and new energy products through various means such as operation management arrangements, mergers and acquisitions, and establishing joint ventures with regional leading enterprises, promote the green transformation and high-end upgrading of the industry, and strive to achieve a higher level of sustainable development and shareholder value creation.
Sep 1 · 02:08·ACN Newswire
Retail · Fashion & luxury
Opportunities center on biodegradable, plant-based litter with superior clumping, odor control and low-dust performance. Premium, fragrance-free products and eco-friendly packaging can attract urban, younger pet owners, while e-commerce and specialty retail expand reach.
Opportunities center on biodegradable, plant-based litter with superior clumping, odor control and low-dust performance. Premium, fragrance-free products and eco-friendly packaging can attract urban, younger pet owners, while e-commerce and specialty retail expand reach.
Aug 31 · 15:14·GlobeNewswire
Finance · AI
HONG KONG, August 31, 2026 - Shanghai Gench Education Group Limited (“Gench Education” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”, Stock Code:1525.HK) -- the leading higher vocational education group in East China and the largest higher vocational education group in Shanghai, delightedly announced the unaudited consolidated interim results for the six months ended 30 June, 2026 (the “Reporting Period”).
During the Reporting Period, the Group recorded revenue of approximately RMB569 million, representing an increase of 6.6% year-on-year (“YoY”). Gross profit was RMB354 million, up 11.7% YoY; Profit for the year was RMB179 million, a YoY rise of 10.2%. Basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent were RMB0.45, compared to RMB0.41 in the same period last year. The growth in performance was primarily attributable to the rise in average tuition fees, boarding fees per student, and revenue from education-related services during the Reporting Period. The Board has resolved the payment of an interim dividend of HKD$0.04 per ordinary share for the six months ended 30 June 2026, maintaining a stable dividend policy.
Policy Dividends Continued to Be Released, Lingang’s Location Advantages Solidified Growth Foundation
As the largest private university in Shanghai, Shanghai Jian Qiao University (the “University”) has fully benefited from dual support from national vocational education policy and Lingang special area policy. In February 2025, the Management Committee of Lingang New Area issued “the Action Plan for High-Quality Development of Industry-Education Integration in Lingang New Area of China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone (2025-2027)”, explicitly supporting the University in building itself into an industry-education integration university. In December 2025, “Shanghai Lingang Science and Technology Innovation City Construction Plan” was launched, encouraging universities to participate in regional innovation development and bringing the Group opportunities in terms of policy support and resources.
At the national level, in February 2026, the Ministry of Education issued the “Opinions of the Ministry of Education on Deepening the Reform of Key Elements in Vocational Education and Teaching”, which focuses on the key links of industry-education integration. In June 2026, the State Council issued the “Education Development Plan for the Fifteenth Five-Year Plan Period” (the “Plan”), which proposes launching the “Dual Excellence” construction of high-level application-oriented undergraduate universities, and leading and driving universities to focus on cultivating distinctive disciplinary specialty clusters around key industrial chains. Driven by these multiple policies, the University has leveraged its location in Lingang’s emerging industry agglomeration to transform its geographical advantages into institutional competitiveness. As of 31 August 2025, 77.5% of the University’s 2025 graduates were employed in the Yangtze River Delta region and 59.2% in Shanghai, which fully demonstrated the University’s effective integration into the regional development ecosystem through its educational outcomes.
Teaching Quality Has Been Steadily Enhanced, While Digital and Intelligent Transformation Has Been Vigorously Advanced
The University remains committed to teaching quality as its core priority, with ongoing efforts to strengthen faculty capacity building, curriculum development and smart campus construction. In terms of faculty, as of 30 September 2025, among the full-time teachers, the master degree or higher accounted for 86.4%, the doctoral degree accounted for 28.8%, the senior title accounted for 38.6%, and the double-position accounted for 47.8%. Grounded in its positioning as an application-oriented technological university, the University vigorously promotes professional teachers to practice in enterprises, organizes thematic workshops on industry education integration, and enhances teachers’ awareness and competence in industry-education integration.
In terms of program and curriculum development, in the 2026/27 school year, the University has introduced two undergraduate majors, namely the Artificial Intelligence and the Electronic Packaging Technology, closely aligning with the demands of key industries such as integrated circuits and artificial intelligence. The University focuses on courses connotative construction, constructs “school level – city level – national level” 3-level courses building system, and enhances practical teaching and quality teaching. In 2025, 12 courses were selected as Shanghai first class undergraduate courses - the number of approved courses showed a YoY increase of 50%, reaching a historic new high. Besides, 26 courses were approved as Shanghai higher education municipal level key courses - the number of approved courses ranked the 7th place among higher education institutions in Shanghai, and thus became the only private university in the top 10. The courses cover various types including “AI+courses” and “industry-education integration courses”. In 2025, the “Fundamentals of Gemstone Geology and Crystallography” course of the College of Jewelry was selected as a “Online/Offline Hybrid First-Class Course”, achieving a breakthrough for the University in the construction of national first-class courses. In May 2026, the “Fundamentals of Intelligent Manufacturing Equipment” course of the College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering was included in the national case collection of “Excellent Intelligent Manufacturing Courses”.
The Group continues to deepen the upgrading and renovation of teaching and research instruments and equipment as well as teaching laboratories. The University has deployed smart classrooms integrated with high-definition cameras, intelligent audio devices and high-speed networks, and has built a smart teaching system covering the entire process of talent cultivation, curriculum teaching and quality monitoring. Furthermore, the Group has actively explored the deep integration of AI and education, embedded technologies such as AI, 5G, and VR into the teaching process, and initiated the construction of a DeepSeek-based large model for vertical-domain educational applications, thereby creating three intelligent agents for services, management, and teaching.
Industry-Education Integration Has Been Further Deepened, While the Diversified Education Ecosystem Has Been Continuously Improved
The Group is fully committed to building an industry-education integrated university. It implements a tripartite operational model integrating “academic schools + industrial colleges + corporate entities”, striving to achieve the synergistic development of “industry, academia, research, and innovation” as an integrated whole. As of 30 June 2026, the University has successively launched seven key industry-education integration projects covering the College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, the College of Journalism and Communications, the Business College, the College of Art Design and the College of Jewelry. It has established Medical Engineering Industrial College, the Live Streaming Economy Industrial College, and Big Data Industrial College, is actively preparing for the establishment of the Integrated Circuit Industrial College and the Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial College, and endeavors to create a distinctive educational framework featuring multi-track industry and college collaboration and comprehensive industry-education integration.
International cooperation has made steady progress, while external exchanges have continued to expand. The University works with Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, The Kyoto College of Graduate Studies for Informatics, Teesside University, among others, in junior college to master’s program, undergraduate to master’s program, dual bachelor’s program and other programs. In 2025, the University contracted with 11 overseas famous universities/colleges in Germany, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Thailand and other countries, to expand teachers and students’ overseas exchange channels. As the first private university in Shanghai that has obtained the qualification to recruit international students, the University also attracts international students from many countries around the world and forms an international student education system that combines long-term and short-term programs.
The University has a well-established lifelong education system. With the Shanghai “Dual-system” Pilot Base for Continuing Education of Employees in Higher Education Institutions (Incubation) as a platform, the University has built an integrated, multi-field and cross-age lifelong education system for knowledge updating and ability enhancement, covering adult higher education, vocational skills training, and youth science and innovation education. As of 30 June 2026, the number of in-service students enrolled in the University’s adult continuing education programs amounted to 3,316, and a total of over 400 types of vocational skill certificate training had been provided.
Financial Position Remains Sound, While the Asset-Liability Structure Has Been Continuously Optimized
During the Reporting Period, finance costs of the Group decreased by 69.0% YoY, which was primarily due to the result of early repayment of most of long-term interest-bearing bank borrowings by the end of 2025. As at 30 June 2026, the scale of interest-bearing borrowings decreased to RMB276.7 million, with the gearing ratio remaining at 0.1. The financial position has become more robust.
Looking forward, Mr. Zhao Donghui, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Gench Education, stated: “The Group’s performance in the first half of 2026 achieved steady growth, validating the feasibility of its high-quality development strategy. In the future, we will continue to adhere to the educational philosophy of ‘student-oriented, teaching-centred, undergraduate-focused’ and the work ideology of ‘quality as the core, teaching as the centre, students as the base, teachers as the principal’ to promote the high-quality development of our undertakings. We will also fully capitalize on this historic opportunity by proactively aligning with the national strategy of promoting the high-quality development of vocational education and with Lingang’s regional initiative of becoming a ‘Global Hub of Power’, cultivate more high-quality technical and skilled talents, and accelerate the transformation to an industry-education integration university, and strive to build our University into a first-class private university in China with more unique features and international standing and a long-distance runner for the high-quality development of higher education in China.”
About Shanghai Gench Education Group Limited
Gench Education (Stock Code: 1525.HK) is a higher vocational education group which provides undergraduate education and junior college education, focusing on high-quality schooling for the provision of excellent education for students. The Group operates Shanghai Jian Qiao University, being the domestic leading private university, at Lingang New Area of China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone. As measured by the number of full-time students enrolled in the 2025/26 school year, the University is the largest private university in Shanghai and is also a leading private university in the entire Yangtze River Delta. According to CUAA.net , the University ranked third among all category I private universities in China for five consecutive years and first among private universities in the Yangtze River Delta for seven consecutive years. Over 26 years of operation, the schooling quality of the University ranked in the forefront of peer universities, which has accumulated a solid brand reputation. Since 2004, the University has been consecutively awarded “Shanghai Civilized Unit” over 18 years. The University has won numerous honorary titles such as “National Model Unit of Civilization ”, “Shanghai Garden Unit”, “Shanghai Safe and Civilized Campus”, etc. The University has also been granted reputable title of “Lei Feng Spirit College Demonstration Education Base” among the first batch of universities in the PRC in April 2024, and was awarded the “Contribution Award for Promoting Lei Feng Spirit in the New Era ” in September 2024. In February and March 2025, the University was successively recognized as an “Outstanding Unit in Information Disclosure Work among Shanghai Higher Education Institutions for 2023-2024” and an “Outstanding Unit in Petition Work within the Shanghai Education System for 2024”.
This press release is issued by Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group on behalf of Shanghai Gench Education Group Limited. For further information, please contact:
Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group
E-mail: gench.hk@pordahavas.com
Aug 31 · 13:29·ACN Newswire
Finance · AI
NEW YORK, August 31, 2026--Perfect Corp. (NYSE: PERF), the leading AI and AR beauty and fashion technology provider, today announced that Vereme has integrated Perfect Corp.'s YouCam AI API suite, bringing visual intelligence to a stylist built to help people make smarter, more confident appearance decisions.
Aug 31 · 12:00·Business Wire
Fashion & luxury
SAINT LOUIS, August 28, 2026--Grandmaster (GM) Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu of India captured his first overall Grand Chess Tour (GCT) championship in dramatic fashion, defeating defending champion GM Fabiano Caruana of the United States in the 2026 GCT Finals. Held Aug. 22–27 in the U.S.
Aug 28 · 19:32·Business Wire
Fashion & luxury · Logistics
FRANKLIN, Mass., Aug. 28, 2026 -- As STOKE Shoes prepares for its next phase of growth, the emerging footwear brand has selected Barrett Distribution Centers as its omnichannel fulfillment and third-party logistics (3PL) partner. STOKE is redefining comfort and fit for...
Aug 28 · 17:55·PR Newswire
Education · Fashion & luxury
Inside a Northern Elementary School gymnasium in Lexington, KY, rows of student-designed booths come to life with color, creativity, and purpose. Handcrafted jewelry is carefully arranged beside handwritten price cards. Homemade treats are displayed with attention to detail. Each table […]
The post Where Ideas Take Shape: Student Innovation Comes to Life in Kentucky appeared first on Toyota USA Newsroom.
Aug 28 · 13:58·Toyota
Finance · Retail
ST. LOUIS, August 28, 2026--Caleres (NYSE: CAL), a market-leading portfolio of consumer-driven footwear brands, today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.07 per share to be paid on September 25, 2026, to shareholders of record as of September 11, 2026.
Aug 28 · 10:45·Business Wire
Fashion & luxury · Sustainability
Opportunities center on sustainable, recycled and dissolvable threads, high-performance products and precision automation, driven by apparel, technical textiles and Asia-Pacific demand.
Opportunities center on sustainable, recycled and dissolvable threads, high-performance products and precision automation, driven by apparel, technical textiles and Asia-Pacific demand.
Aug 28 · 08:30·GlobeNewswire
AI · SaaS
HONG KONG, August 27, 2026 - The 45th Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and the 14th Salon de TIME, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Limited, and the Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries Limited, will be held from 1 to 5 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Salon de TIME will be fully open to the public throughout the event.
The 45th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and 14th Salon de TIME take place from 1 to 5 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Introducing fair highlights at a press conference are Smilely Lam, HKTDC Associate Executive Director (fifth from the left), SK Chong (fourth from the right) and Frankie Lam (fourth from the left), Co-Chairmen, HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Organising Committee 2026, and celebrity Joey Thye (fifth from the right).
Under the theme “Sparkling Moments Through Time”, the two fairs are expected to attract more than 630 exhibitors from 16 countries and regions, showcasing a wide range of watches, clocks and related products to meet evolving market trends and consumer demand.
The Click2Match AI-powered business matching platform has been available since 25 August and will remain open until 12 September, enabling exhibitors and buyers from around the world to connect and conduct business discussions online during and beyond the physical fairs.
Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair marks 45th Milestone
HKTDC Associate Executive Director Smilely Lam said: “The Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TIME together form the world's largest one-stop watch and clock marketplace. As the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair celebrates its 45th edition this year, the two fairs are continuing to grow in both international reach and diversity, leveraging Hong Kong’s strengths as an international trading hub and Asia’s premier sourcing centre for watches and clocks.
This year’s fairs welcome, for the first time, a pavilion from Hengyang, Hunan Province, alongside group pavilions from France, Switzerland, Guangzhou and Taiwan. New exhibitors from Norway, Singapore and the US are joining this year's fair, further strengthening the international profile of the fairs.
Salon de TIME is expected to feature more than 150 global brands, reaching a new post-pandemic high. Participation from Hong Kong brands and Guochao-inspired brands has increased by more than 20%, while more brands from Italy, the United Kingdom and the US are joining, alongside the debut of Singaporean brands. This fully demonstrates Hong Kong’s unique role as an important bridge connecting the Chinese Mainland with international markets, as well as the global watch industry’s confidence in the Hong Kong market.”
According to the latest trade statistics, Hong Kong is the world’s largest importer and second largest exporter of wristwatches. In the first seven months of this year, the total export value of watches reached approximately HK$30.5 billion, representing a 7.8% year-on-year increase. Several other Hong Kong export markets recorded double-digit growth, including Germany (+21%), Switzerland (+25%) and the United Arab Emirates (+91%). In addition, the watch industry’s export confidence index rose from 50.4 to 51.9 in the second quarter, reflecting the industry’s cautiously optimistic outlook for exports.
Microbrand participation doubles, bringing greater diversity to the fair
Located in Hall 3FG, Salon de TIME features six themed zones: World Brand Piazza, Chic & Trendy, Craft Treasure, Renaissance Moment, Wearable Tech, and Microbrands. The Microbrands zone has attracted 29 brands from eight countries and regions, with both the number of participating brands and the number of represented countries and regions doubling compared with last year.
World Brand Piazza showcases prestigious international watch brands
For the 16th consecutive year, the World Brand Piazza zone is organised in partnership with Prince Jewellery & Watch, featuring limited-edition and rare timepieces from some of the world’s most prestigious watch brands. This year, Prince Jewellery & Watch will showcase exceptional creations from six internationally renowned brands: Baume & Mercier, Corum, DeWitt, Franck Muller, Montblanc and Sarcar.
World Brand Piazza will feature a selection of limited-edition and highly collectible timepieces. Among the highlights, Franck Muller will present a ladies’ watch created in collaboration with French street artist Jisbar, marking the second partnership between the two parties. The brand will also host a product introduction seminar on 2 September titled “Franck Muller 2026 WPHH Novelties ‘Vanguard Lady Crazy Hours Jisbar’”.
Meanwhile, Sarcar has specially created a unique platinum version of its Medusa timepiece exclusively for the World Brand Piazza. The one-of-a-kind watch is set with 228 diamonds, complemented by red garnets and green agates, showcasing exceptional high jewellery craftsmanship. Two marquise-cut diamonds are used to represent Medusa’s eyes. At the same time, the signature snake-hair motif extends seamlessly from the dial to the case and lugs, all meticulously sculpted from solid gold, offering the charm of ancient Roman stone sculptures of beautiful women.
The Renaissance Moment zone will also welcome the debut appearance of WOLF, the luxury watch storage box and winder brand from the United Kingdom. Built around the concept of preserving heritage, WOLF provides professional care solutions for high-end mechanical timepieces. On the opening day of the fair (1 September), the brand will unveil its latest innovation, The Rocket, the world's most compact travel watch winder, highlighting WOLF's commitment to innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship.
Guochao timepieces showcase the strength of Chinese watchmaking
Designs incorporating traditional Chinese cultural elements have gained strong market appeal in recent years. This year, Salon de TIME will bring together five leading independent watchmakers from the Chinese Mainland, all of whom will attend the fair in person.
The Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants (AHCI) which is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious independent watchmaking institutions, maintains exceptionally stringent membership requirements. Currently, only four AHCI members are from the Chinese Mainland, and this year's exhibition will feature three of them including Xushu Ma, who was the first watchmaker from the Chinese Mainland admitted to the association, as well as Zehua Tan and Lin Yong Hua. The opportunity to see such a distinguished line-up in one place is particularly rare.
In addition, several Guochao-inspired brands and Chinese watchmakers will showcase their outstanding creations. Highlights include:
Chinese watchmaker Qian Guobiao will present the limited-edition AB-05S “Skylight Sun”, restricted to just 18 pieces worldwide. The self-developed AB-05 manual-winding movement powers the timepiece. At the same time, its semi-skeletonized dial reveals the balance wheel and gear train, highlighting the watch's intricate mechanics and technical expertise.
Shanghai Watch will present the ORIGINATE Collection A623 Revival Watch, a modern recreation of China’s first calendar watch, modelling after the original A623 timepiece worn for many years by Zhou Enlai, the first Premier of the People’s Republic of China. The brand will also unveil the Hong Kong Exclusive Edition featuring two interchangeable straps in grey and green, with colours inspired by the Zhongshan suits frequently worn by Premier Zhou, evoking a spirit and memory that transcend generations.
Award-winning timepieces showcase innovation and craftsmanship
This year’s fair brings together award-winning timepieces, highlighting the watch industry’s pursuit of technical excellence and design innovation. Highlights include:
AGELOCER’s 29.51-Day MoonPhase Original Astronomer reimagines the traditional moon phase display by featuring an industry-first 28.5mm oversized moon phase aperture. Blending astronomical imagery with mechanical aesthetics, the timepiece has earned nine international design awards, including the German Design Award 2022, MUSE Design Awards Gold 2023, and European Design Award 2023.
Making its debut at the exhibition, Singaporean brand Vario will present the Vario VERSA Reversible Dual Time Watch. With an innovative reversible case design, the watch features two independent dials, each showing a different time zone. Users can easily switch between the two displays, making it a practical companion for international travellers. The unique design earned the watch the 2025 iF Design Award.
Collaborations, innovation and limited-edition collectibles cater to diverse market tastes
The fairs will also feature collaborative, limited-edition, and debut timepieces, showcasing different styles and innovations to meet evolving consumer preferences, including:
LINK2CARE has partnered with Swiss watch brand MARVIN to launch a luxury smartwatch that integrates LINK2CARE’s patented leather strap with concealed medical-grade vital sensor. The watch provides comprehensive health monitoring capabilities, including real-time tracking of mental resilience and stress levels, with data displayed directly on the watch dial.
This year’s two major overseas pavilions, the Swiss Independent Watchmakers Pavilion (SIWP) and France’s Francéclat, together with other European exhibitors, will bring together around 80 brands from across Europe. Among the highlights, Swiss watchmaker Pilo & Co Genève will showcase the Corleone Mini Collection, created to celebrate the brand’s 25th anniversary. Reimagining the iconic Corleone design as a refined ladies’ timepiece, the collection blends elegance with contemporary sophistication, with each colour variant limited to just 10 pieces worldwide.
Several product zones showcase industry strength; Time Tunnel celebrates 45th edition
The Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, to be held in Hall 1, features seven dedicated product zones. Among them, Pageant of Eternity will showcase premium finished watches from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and Original Design Manufacturers (ODM). One example is Hong Kong exhibitor Time Grand Ltd, which has more than 20 years of experience in product development, engineering design, and manufacturing services for global watch brands. Through its network of partnerships with Swiss watchmaking companies, the firm offers one-stop watchmaking solutions, demonstrating the strength of Hong Kong’s watch industry in connecting international watchmaking markets. Other zones include Complete Watches, Clocks, Machinery & Equipment, Packaging & Display, Parts, Components & Accessories.
To celebrate the 45th edition of the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, organisers will present a special “Time Tunnel” exhibition, taking visitors on a journey through three key stages in the fair’s evolution since its debut in 1982. The exhibition will revisit the period from the 1980s to the 1990s, when the fair established itself as a major global sourcing platform for the watch and clock industry. It then traces the transformation of Hong Kong’s watch industry between 2000 and 2020, as the sector evolved from OEM manufacturing toward brand development, with the fair becoming an important platform for industry promotion, networking, and exchange.
The final section covers the period from 2020 to the present, when the fair expanded beyond manufacturing, sourcing, and brand promotion. Through cross-sector collaboration and the integration of resources from different industries, it has evolved into a multifaceted platform that brings together craftsmanship, design, technology, lifestyle, culture and consumer engagement, reflecting the continuous transformation of both the watch industry and the fair itself.
Experts to share insights on emerging global watch industry trends
More than 40 events will take place throughout the fair, including forums, seminars, watch parades, and networking activities, giving industry professionals valuable insights into the latest market developments and business opportunities.
On the opening day (1 September), the Hong Kong International Watch Forum will bring together leaders of watch industry associations from Chinese Mainland, Germany, France, Switzerland, Japan and Korea to share the latest trade statistics and industry trends in their respective markets. Speakers will also explore new opportunities arising from the convergence of traditional watchmaking craftsmanship and technological innovation.
On the second day (2 September), the Asian Watch Conference will be held under the theme “Hong Kong as the hub of International Watch Trades”. Senior analysts from international research firm Euromonitor International (Hong Kong) will present the latest developments in the global watch market. Representatives from online watch resale platform Chrono24 will discuss how businesses can connect with global demand through digital channels. At the same time, speakers from Lazada HK will share insights on how to leverage e-commerce platforms to accelerate market expansion and reach new customer segments.
The 43rd Hong Kong Watch & Clock Design Competition, jointly organised by the HKTDC, the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Limited, and the Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries Limited, aims to promote watch design exchanges and nurture local talent.
This year, the themes for the Open Group and Student Group are “Transcending Time” and “Contours of the Breeze” respectively. The competition will continue to feature The Made-to-sell Award, recognising student entries with outstanding commercial potential. The award presentation ceremony will be held on 5 September at the fair’s event stage, with celebrity Joey Thye attending as a guest.
Public activities and lucky draws offer an exciting visitor experience
Salon de TIME will host a variety of special activities and luxury watch showcases open to the public. Among the highlights, renowned watch art specialist and collector Labeg will lead a workshop on 4 September, demonstrating how to craft wristwatches from corrugated cardboard.
This year, the exhibition also introduces the “Time Arena” activity zone, combining sports and luxury watch elements to offer visitors a fresh and interactive experience. A key feature will be the “Watch2Care Smart x Lifestyle Experience Days”, taking place from 4 to 5 September, featuring a range of interactive activities. Visitors will also have the opportunity to try pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in recent years.
Other highlights include yoga and body mobility sessions, watch parades, and product launch events. Memorigin will unveil the Verdant Resonance Tourbillon watch, and invite several celebrity guests to attend its activities, including celebrity Vic Teo, Hong Kong basketball star Wong Lut Yiu, and renowned face-changing performer Hathor Wai.
A Lucky Draw will be held daily throughout the fair, offering visitors the chance to win premium watches sponsored by brands including Memorigin, SAGA, ELMER INGO, Allied Asia Enterprise (PVT) Limited, Alexus Christy, Claudia Koch and FOKSY.
In addition, CENTRESTAGE, Hong Kong’s premier fashion event, will take place concurrently at the HKCEC from 2 to 5 September, bringing together fashion brands and designer collections from around the world. The co-location of the events will create strong synergies, allowing visitors to explore the latest collections from more than 400 watch and fashion brands under one roof.
Photo download: https://bit.ly/4xqIloM
The 45th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and 14th Salon de TIME take place from 1 to 5 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Introducing fair highlights at a press conference are Smilely Lam, HKTDC Associate Executive Director (fifth from the left), SK Chong (fourth from the right) and Frankie Lam (fourth from the left), Co-Chairmen, HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Organising Committee 2026, and celebrity Joey Thye (fifth from the right).
Celebrity Joey Thye to host exclusive watch unboxing session, showcasing eight timepieces.
The World Brand Piazza, organised in partnership with Prince Jewellery & Watch for the 16th consecutive year, has long been one of the exhibition’s signature attractions and remains a favourite among watch collectors. This year, Prince Jewellery & Watch is presenting luxury creations from six internationally renowned watch brands, including the Vanguard Lady Crazy Hours Jisbar (left), a collaboration between Franck Muller and French street artist Jisbar, as well as a unique platinum version of the Medusa timepiece (right) created exclusively for the exhibition by Sarcar.
Chinese watchmaker Qian Guobiao will present the limited-edition AB-05S “Skylight Sun”, restricted to just 18 pieces worldwide. The self-developed AB-05 manual-winding movement powers the timepiece. At the same time, its semi-skeletonized dial reveals the balance wheel and gear train, highlighting the watch's intricate mechanics and technical expertise.
AGELOCER’s 29.51-Day MoonPhase Original Astronomer reimagines the traditional moon phase display by featuring an industry-first 28.5mm oversized moon phase aperture. Blending astronomical imagery with mechanical aesthetics, the timepiece has earned nine international design awards, including the German Design Award 2022, MUSE Design Awards Gold 2023, and European Design Award 2023.
Vario VERSA Reversible Dual Time Watch’s innovative reversible case design, the watch features two independent dials, each showing a different time zone. Users can easily switch between the two displays, making it a practical companion for international travellers. The unique design earned the watch the 2025 iF Design Award.
LINK2CARE has partnered with Swiss watch brand MARVIN to launch a luxury smartwatch that integrates LINK2CARE’s patented leather strap with concealed medical-grade biometric sensors. The watch provides comprehensive health monitoring capabilities, including real-time tracking of resilience and stress levels, with data displayed directly on the watch dial.
Memorigin will unveil the “Verdant Resonance Tourbillon watch”, inspired by the refined lifestyle of ancient Chinese scholars, particularly the tradition of playing the zither while enjoying incense. It combines Chinese cultural aesthetics with contemporary haute horlogerie craftsmanship.
The 43rd Hong Kong Watch & Clock Design Competition features two categories, the Open Group and the Student Group, with design themes of “Transcending Time” and “Contours of the Breeze” respectively. Award-winning and shortlisted entries will be exhibited throughout the fair, showcasing the creativity and design talent of Hong Kong’s emerging and established watch designers. Photo shows representatives of the watch and clock industry together with the competition judges.
Websites:
Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkwatchfair/en
Salon de TIME: https://www.hktdc.com/event/te/en
Media enquiries
Please contact the HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Johnny Tsui
Tel: (852) 2584 4395
Email : johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.org
About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. The HKTDC is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
Aug 27 · 10:26·ACN Newswire
Fashion & luxury
LOS ANGELES, August 26, 2026--Skechers Is Now the #2 Footwear Brand in the United States
Aug 26 · 14:30·Business Wire
Finance · AI
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Aug 26 · 05:00·Hyundai Motor Company