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Finance · AI

Surging AI Short Drama Revenue Propels Duiba Group to the Top among HK-listed Peers

HONG KONG, Sept 3, 2026 - Introduction According to Duiba Group’s interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2026, its AI short drama business has generated revenue of RMB 223 million since its launch in January, accounting for 51.2% of the company’s total revenue. Fueled by this powerful new growth engine, the company recorded total revenue of RMB 435 million, up 24.3% year on year. Its gross profit rose 30% year on year to RMB 74.54 million, with the gross profit margin improving to 17.1%, while the loss narrowed 5.2% year on year to RMB 25.33 million. Overall, the company demonstrated strong momentum in both revenue growth and profitability improvement. RMB 40 Billion Size and 600 Million Users: the AI Short Drama Market is Entering the Era of “Industrial Revolution” In recent years, the AI short drama business has emerged as one of the few segments in the content industry witnessing high incremental growth. According to the latest research report from Zhongtai Securities, a leading Chinese securities firm, the overall AI short drama market size is expected to exceed RMB 40 billion in 2026, representing growth of more than 138% year on year, with the core and general user base expanding to exceed 600 million in the first six months. Content supply is also increasing at a remarkable pace. In the first half of the year, 222,000 AI short dramas were released on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, generating more than 515.7 billion incremental views. Yet the sheer volume of content also means intensifying competition. In the first six months of the year, only 0.48% of newly released AI short dramas on Douyin became viral hits that garnered over 100 million views. This suggests that content creation is no longer the sole decisive competitive advantage; success increasingly depends on a company’s ability to combine “AI industrialization, traffic algorithms and commercialization”. This is precisely the core advantage that has enabled Duiba Group to rise to the top among Hong Kong-listed peers in such a short time since tapping into the AI short drama market. Real Value in Performance Data: High Growth and Strong Sustainability For investors, operating data remains the ultimate indicator of whether a company can sustain growth throughout an industry cycle. According to Duiba Group’s interim results, the company released 74 hit dramas that each generated over 10 million views, including 13 with over 100 million views. Six new hit dramas with over 100 million views were launched in a single month, and the highest views for a single drama exceeded 1.04 billion. Moreover, business revenue in June more than doubled month on month. These figures suggest that Duiba Group’s growth is not dependent on a handful of breakout titles or temporary traffic spikes but stems from its simultaneous enhancement of content generation and supply efficiency, as well as commercialization efficiency. Its performance demonstrates the strong growth potential and sustainability of the AI short drama business model. For Duiba Group, the AI short drama business is no longer an exploration of a single business for incremental growth. It is reshaping the company’s overall business structure and also serving as a critical factor in how investors assess the company’s future value. Core Competitive Moats: Dominant Advantage with Advertising Traffic Expertise and Transformation Powered by Full-chain AI Industrialization More than 360,000 short and mini dramas went online in the first half of 2026, representing an elevenfold increase over the full year of 2025. Against this backdrop of explosive content supply, the channel distribution capability has become a critical factor shaping the landscape of industry competition. Duiba Group’s rapid rise has been underpinned by its decade-long expertise in traffic operations and its strength in advertising systems. First, its deep-rooted expertise in advertising traffic operations provides an overwhelming advantage in channel distribution. With years of experience in the Internet and digital advertising industry, Duiba Group has built mature infrastructure and core capabilities spanning traffic operations, advertising systems and data algorithms. Upon entering the AI short drama market, the company has rapidly leveraged these capabilities across distribution and commercialization. By analyzing user preferences with data and enhancing distribution efficiency through algorithms, it can feed market insights back into content production, creating an evolving cycle of content generation, distribution and monetization, as well as iteration and optimization. Second, full-chain AI industrialization reshapes content production efficiency. Rather than merely applying AI to a single stage of production, Duiba Group has integrated the power across the entire workflow, covering theme selection, planning, scriptwriting, character development, scene generation, video production and final quality control of finished productions. This turns the traditional creative process, which relies heavily on human creative experience, into a standardized, intelligent and scalable production system. It has therefore established a brand new production paradigm for the content industry—one that can produce hit dramas repeatedly with extreme efficiency. In the first six months of the year, Duiba Group released 74 hit dramas with over 10 million views, 13 of which surpassed 100 million views. This serves as solid evidence of the company’s ability to produce hit dramas repeatedly—hit dramas are less a matter of chance than the stable output of a robust industrialization system. In addition, combining its channel distribution strength, Duiba Group has fully leveraged traffic distribution to maximize total commercial returns. Advertising expertise enhances traffic and commercialization efficiency, while AI industrialization boosts content supply efficiency. Leveraging its unique mastery of traffic operations and, more importantly, industrialization, Duiba Group has outclassed traditional content companies in both efficiency and precision of content production. Furthermore, by deeply embedding AI throughout the entire value chain, Duiba Group has been driving a fundamental shift in the AI short drama sector since its entry. Going forward, the competition will no longer center on who can produce the next breakout hit the fastest, but on the capacity to consistently deliver high-quality content that can be monetized at large scale, at lower marginal costs and faster iteration speed. That is to say, the AI short drama sector is transitioning from “chance-based creation” to a “predictable system.” Conclusion Duiba Group is continuously strengthening its full-chain AI industrialization system and leveraging economies of scale. As AI continues to reshape the content industry, the company is pioneering a new development paradigm that could bring ultimate efficiency, end-to-end commercialization and sustainable growth. As a top AI short drama player among Hong Kong-listed companies, Duiba Group is well positioned to further expand its business scale, strengthen its core competitive moats and capture the benefits of large-scale operations—and to achieve overall profitability milestones in the near future.

Sep 3 · 02:49ACN Newswire
Energy · Sustainability

Engine Technology Forum Praises House Energy and Commerce Committee for Passing Reauthorization of the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act

Bipartisan legislation passes in unanimous vote Bipartisan legislation passes in unanimous vote

Sep 2 · 18:04GlobeNewswire
AI · SaaS

Bayer advances combined seed and crop protection pipeline and enters phase of blockbuster launches

Huxley, Iowa, September 2, 2026 – Bayer is implementing its previously announced ambition to bring 10 blockbusters to market over 10 years, beginning to launch major Crop Science innovations in key agricultural regions around the world. A blockbuster is a product that is expected to deliver a peak sales potential of at least 500 million euros. Plenexos™ insecticide and the Preceon™ Smart Corn System have already started to be commercialized. In soy, Vyconic™ 1 is expected for introduction next year in the United States and Canada, and Intacta 5+™1 introduction is expected for the 2027/2028 growing season in Brazil. “We are delivering on the promises we made and bringing a new generation of game-changing products to farmers. By connecting seed and crop protection innovation we can deliver whole-farm solutions that help growers manage risk, capture yield potential and improve return on investment,” said Rodrigo Santos, Member of the Board of Management of Bayer AG and Head of the Crop Science Division. “We pursue a very diligent and differentiated strategy for each of our segments, addressing different growth dynamics, farmer needs, and regional and competitive dynamics. Because we have scale, we see having these different business segments together as a significant strategic advantage – one that plays out in what we innovate and how we can serve growers.” The Preceon™ Smart Corn System, a digitally enabled short-stature corn system, is already delivering on-farm value in Mexico, Italy, Spain, and the U.S. This year, the commercial launch in Argentina will begin. It delivers a unique combination of benefits for growers, including increased protection against weather extremes, flexibility to plant at higher densities, improved accessibility for standard farm equipment throughout the season, and a larger root system, all supporting reduced agronomic risk, higher yield potential and better return on investment for farmers. By 2035, Bayer targets a market penetration of 26 million acres. Preceon™ is also unique by embedding digital capabilities within the system through FieldView™. More than a sales enablement platform, it serves as a collaboration tool between farmers and their agronomic advisors and helps customers realize the full agronomic and economic potential of the system. Plenexos™, a new insecticide targeting a broad spectrum of sucking pests, has been introduced in Colombia, with Mexico, Brazil, and the U.S. set to follow. Compared to other products, farmers can use up to 75 percent less active ingredient to control pests2 which also helps safeguard pollinators, beneficial insects and other non-target organisms. With a focus on soy, cotton, fruits and vegetables, Plenexos™ is anticipated to reach a peak sales potential of 500 million euros by the mid-2030s. Vyconic™ will be the industry's first soybean trait stack with tolerance to five herbicides. It is designed to provide growers with more flexibility in their weed control options and to better manage weed pressure and increasingly problematic resistance. Because of the integration with Bayer’s advanced breeding pipeline, Vyconic™ will be introduced in elite-performing varieties that have demonstrated a yield increase of more than two bushels per acre, meaning that farmers realize the full value of both increased genetic yield potential and weed control flexibility earlier than ever. Bayer anticipates strong adoption of Vyconic™ and subsequent launch of HT5, helping to regain trait leadership position in North America by 2032. Intacta 5+™ will also bring five herbicide tolerances to Brazilian growers, and adds new insect protection traits specifically designed for the Brazilian market. In soy, these and the next generation of herbicide tolerance traits, combined with the newest insect protection traits, are expected to reach a peak sales potential of more than 3 billion euros. Additional blockbusters expected before the end of the decade include fourth-generation corn rootworm protection, as well as the groundbreaking herbicide Icafolin, targeting 750 million euros sales potential in the mid-2030s. Collectively, the 10 blockbusters will address pressing farmer challenges and are poised to contribute significantly to Bayer's growth over the coming decade. Bayer advances industry-leading innovation pipeline Alongside these launches, Bayer advances key projects across its Crop Science R&D pipeline and brings innovation to farmers continuously, introducing 400 to 500 new hybrids and varieties annually. This output is based on Bayer’s AI-enabled precision breeding platform, which doubles the yield improvement rate of every new generation (genetic gain) compared to historical breeding, and accelerates time to market threefold. The company’s researchers have further enhanced this breeding approach through genome editing, which they use at scale by integrating the technology early in breeding processes. One example is genome-edited soy: Higher-yielding soybean varieties can become more susceptible to leaning or falling over as plant height increases. Through genome editing, Bayer is developing soy with improved plant architecture to help address this challenge. Innovations like genome-edited standable soy and the advanced breeding pipeline come together to create new product concepts and value for growers that will come to the market early in the next decade. As another example of its connected R&D engine, Bayer is advancing new biotech traits in concert with its novel crop protection innovation. In early-stage development, the company is working on its sixth-generation herbicide tolerance, which is expected to also include tolerance against its blockbuster herbicide Icafolin. It is the first time the company simultaneously develops a new herbicide molecule and plant trait for tolerance, contributing to a holistic weed-control system that is unique in the industry. Bayer’s AI-powered R&D-CropKey platform is a key differentiator in Crop Protection, enabling the discovery of new modes of action and the design of targeted molecules assessing efficacy, safety, and sustainability at the very start of the R&D process. This has helped create a robust pipeline with more than 15 novel modes of action currently in the pipeline research phase, driven by CropKey. One example is a new broad-spectrum fungicide for soy with blockbuster potential. It is developed using CropKey and now advanced to phase II in the pipeline. “Whether in seeds, traits or crop protection innovation, AI is becoming a core enabler of Bayer’s innovation model, helping us advance discovery, improve development efficiency and translate biological insights into differentiated products for growers faster,” said Mike Graham, Head of Crop Science R&D. “Our advantage is that our teams work from the same biological insights, enabling us to combine expertise across disciplines and accelerate innovation.” Bayer is also using its unique R&D capabilities to expand into adjacent growth areas. With its emergent, but leading portfolio of intermediate biofuel crops, including camelina, winter oilseed rape and CoverCress™, the company contributes to meeting growing demand for biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel markets, estimated to increase almost threefold to 40 billion gallons by 2040. Bayer is also advancing its plans to sell hybrid wheat in Europe and North America by the early 2030s. This unlocks a largely untapped opportunity by bringing the benefits of hybridization to a crop grown on more than 500 million acres worldwide. With hybrid wheat, camelina, winter oilseed rape and CoverCress™, Bayer is entering four new crops at the same time. Bayer on track executing its Five-Year Framework Bayer’s innovation approach is enabled by execution of its Five-Year Framework strategy, which the Crop Science Division announced in 2025 to drive growth, resilience and profitability. The company continues to execute the strategy, and efforts are beginning to deliver tangible results. Bayer has made significant progress on cost reductions, amounting to almost 400 million euros to date, contributing to its EBITDA before special items improvement goal of 1 billion euros and supporting its ambition to achieve an EBITDA margin before special items in the mid-20s percentage range by the end of the decade. Actions included divesting five active ingredients and discontinuing more than 100 crop protection formulations. In addition, cash-flow measures are progressing, with inventory reductions of already 500 million euros, supporting Bayer’s ambition to reach a free operating cash flow of more than 3 billion euros by 2029. The Five-Year Framework’s goal of above-market growth and delivering more than 3.5 billion euros of incremental sales at constant currency through the end of the decade is supported by Bayer’s ongoing innovation delivery as well as strategic business decisions. Key growth drivers include excellent-yielding hybrids launched every year, accelerated technology adoption, market share gains and geographic expansion of proven technologies into Asian and EMEA markets. In the crop protection space, Bayer is pursuing growth through locally focused go-to-market initiatives, redeploying commercial resources to growth products and regions, and lifecycle management measures, like the introduction of Convintro™ in the United States, Brazil and Canada. Bayer’s progress is supported by its Dynamic Shared Ownership operating model, which enables faster decisions and clearer accountability, strengthening the company’s ability to lead in scaling AI-enabled opportunities across the business. “Our innovation strategy and our Five-Year Framework are built on execution,” said Rodrigo Santos. “We are making progress against the commitments we have made, and are set to lead the industry and bring value to our customers and shareholders by delivering differentiating solutions that growers around the world need.” Pictures and additional material can be downloaded here. You can find FAQ on this topic here. Notes 1 These products are not currently available for commercial sale or commercial planting. Commercialization is dependent on multiple factors, including successful conclusion of the regulatory process. The information presented herein is provided for educational purposes only, and is not and shall not be construed as an offer to sell. 2 Based upon >600 trials (internal/external) from 2021-2025 in Brazil, including trials with Plenexos™ targeting whiteflies in soybean production; application rate 24 g ai/ha vs. imidacloprid 100 g ai/ha. About Bayer Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, “Health for all, Hunger for none,” the company’s products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2025, the Group employed around 88,000 people and had sales of 45.6 billion euros. R&D expenses amounted to 5.8 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com. Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer’s public reports which are available on the Bayer website at www.bayer.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments. Bayer AG is a holding company with operating subsidiaries worldwide. References to “Bayer” or “the company” herein may refer to one or more subsidiaries as context requires. Contact for media inquiries: Alexander Gutmann, phone +49 174 730 6349 Email: alexander.gutmann@bayer.com Benjamin Eberle, phone +1 314 258 6187 Email: benjamin.eberle@bayer.com Contact for investor inquiries: Bayer Investor Relations Team, phone +49 214 30-72704 Email: ir@bayer.com www.bayer.com/en/investors/ir-team

Sep 2 · 12:00Bayer
SaaS · Retail

Asia's premier fashion event CENTRESTAGE officially kicks off

HONG KONG, Sept 2, 2026 - Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, CENTRESTAGE, Asia’s annual premier fashion event and a flagship programme of the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest, officially opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Running for four consecutive days until 5 September, the exhibition is open free of charge to both industry buyers and the public, and invites all to immerse themselves in the unique allure of Asia's fashion capital. Stepping into its 11th edition, this year's CENTRESTAGE has attracted a record-breaking convergence of some 270 international brands from 24 countries and regions. This vibrant tapestry of style encompasses renowned labels, emerging designers, and industry elites, showcasing the pinnacle of fashion trends and creative ingenuity. Furthermore, the four-day extravaganza features a rich programme of over 40 captivating events, including an unprecedented lineup of more than 30 runway shows, further cementing the fair’s international influence and sartorial magnetism. The 11th CENTRESTAGE officially opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, gathering a record-breaking some 270 international brands. Smilely Lam, Associate Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “CENTRESTAGE gathers a constellation of global fashion brands and design luminaries. Through this platform, we aim to leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages as an international business hub and a superconnector. We enable Hong Kong brands to connect with overseas buyers, while simultaneously attracting international labels to use Hong Kong as a springboard into Asia, fostering two-way collaboration and creating more business opportunities. At the same time, it allows the public to experience the latest fashion and creative trends up close, further consolidating Hong Kong's position as Asia's fashion and creative hub.” This year, CENTRESTAGE debuts the Hype² zone, bringing together fashion brands led by local celebrities and KOLs to showcase the diverse charm of Hong Kong's streetwear culture. Hype² pavilion debuts with limited new releases Streetwear has experienced meteoric growth in recent years, propelled by Gen Z consumers who place a premium on "self-expression" and "emotional resonance". Responding to this cultural shift, CENTRESTAGE debuts Hype² pavilion, a dedicated zone spotlighting fashion labels spearheaded by local celebrities and KOL. The star-studded exhibitor lineup includes Rosita Kwok’s Claro, Vincent Wong’s OGIS, Kelvin Kwan’s PICK AND MATCH, ROSEMA.ESE X Jaime Cheung (a collaboration between Jaime Cheung and Ariel Leung), and Pakho Chau’s XPX.  During the fair, some 30 limited-edition and debut products were launched. Additionally, the "Hype² Runway Show" will take centre stage on 4 September, bringing together over 10 streetwear brands with special celebrity guest appearances. KIT WAN STUDIOS headlines grand opening fashion show Tonight (2 September), the grand opening fashion show, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, will put the spotlight on KIT WAN STUDIOS, a multidisciplinary design and visual arts studio led by Kit Wan, a Hong Kong-born creative director and visual artist. The studio’s collaborative roster of local artist is formidable, encompassing Miriam Yeung, Hins Cheung, MC Cheung, and Panther Chan. Designing “stage armour” for artists in Los Angeles at the Grammy Awards and Eurovision in the United Kingdom allow Hong Kong design to shine on a global stages. Over 30 brand-new looks will make their debut on the CENTRESTAGE ELITES runway, with select pieces displayed at the fairground. To share the three acts of this collection “MUTANT // MYTHOLOGY” to a wider audience, the show will be livestreamed across multiple platforms. Furthermore, on 4 September, he will engage in a sharing session with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, to explore his inspirations and insights on operating a fashion brand both from an art studio. Korea joins as "Featured Partner" with largest-ever pavilion CENTRESTAGE’s global footprint continues to expand, welcoming exhibitors from 24 countries and regions, with Austria, Colombia, the Faroe Islands, Malaysia, Slovakia and the UAE making their inaugural appearances. Notably, Korea is serving as CENTRESTAGE's Featured Partner for the first time. Jointly organised by the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), HISEOUL SHOWROOM, and the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Hong Kong, the pavilion brings 12 renowned Seoul designer brands, including DOUCAN, ELNORE, and RE RH'EE, alongside the Gyeonggi Fashion Creative Studio, which presents 10 prominent local brands such as ARTS DE BASE, PHENOMENONSEEPER, and VEGANTIGER, showcasing the trendiest Korean styles. The pavilion will host a thematic fashion show, "SEOUListic: The Future is Sustainable," on 4 September, featuring former IZ*ONE member Lee Chae-yeon as a guest performer, blending fashion with entertainment. In addition to Korea, the exhibition features 11 overseas pavilions. The Austrian pavilion, participating for the first time and coordinated by Austrian Trade Commission, brings 7 brands with unique European flair, including Woody, My Magpie and more. The Austrian delegation staged a mini parade today, receiving an enthusiastic response from the audience while showcasing the distinctive European flair and sustainability ethos of Austrian design. The Canadian pavilion, led by the Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong and Macao, gathers several high-end, female-founded and female-led brands, including Iris Setlakwe, known for elegant tailoring, and Devlyn Van Loon, focusing on minimalist and sustainable design, showcasing modern North American women's fashion. The Thai pavilion, organised by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), returns with 14 brands, including KANZ BY THAITOR. Other pavilions include Quanzhou from the Chinese Mainland, Macao, Australia, and Slovakia. New Perfume Zone with fragrance experience with over 20 brands launching in Hong Kong for the first time This year's exhibition features seven thematic zones covering various fashion sectors and design styles. The newly added “Perfume” zone gathers renowned fragrance brands from around the world. Over 20 brands from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam are making their Hong Kong retail debut, alongside established names like local brand OCO, inviting buyers and fashion enthusiasts on an olfactory journey. The fair also featured a Scent Station, where visitors can sample and test their favourite fragrances. This year's exhibition features seven themed zones, with the Urban Zone highlighting casual city fashion. Brands include 8FIVE2, founded by Julius Brian Siswojo, a member of Hong Kong's hip hop group "24Herbs." He was present on the opening day, engaging closely with the public and adding star power to the zone. Building on last year's success, the "Accessories" zone has been expanded, featuring brands such as local label Bethel. The "Craftsmanship" zone celebrates artisanal excellence with Malaysia’s Maswira Majid and local brand Wanzzz. The "Contemporary" zone showcases avant-garde aesthetics, featuring Colombia’s STUDIO INGRID BURGOS and Chinese Mainland’s premium label Langdeng. The "Urban" zone captures the essence of casual city life, including local label 8FIVE2 by local Hip Hop group ‘’24herbs’’ member Julius Brian Siswojo. The zone also features another local label Petrolhead by artist Louis Cheung and Yorki Fan. Julius Brian Siswojo and Louis Cheung made appearances at the fair on opening day, drawing enthusiastic crowds and creating a lively atmosphere. The “Athleisure” zone merges sportswear with workwear, highlighted by local brand Plan216. Finally, the "Circular Fashion" zone champions sustainability, featuring local brand JESSE LEE, who will present three-dimensional garments crafted from upcycled fabrics and 3D printing technology. Select exhibitors will also offer retail sales, allowing the public to purchase their favourite designer pieces on the spot. Record-breaking runway shows Over 40 exciting events will take place during the exhibition, including a historic high of over 30 fashion shows covering various styles. A key highlight, the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show organised by the HKTDC, will be held tomorrow (3 September). Inspired by "Hong Kong Dopamine", it will present the creative collections of four local brands: 112 mountainyam, ANGUS TSUI, ARTY:ACTIVE, and Z I D I, showcasing the city's fashion vitality. The first runway show of the event, FASHIONALLY Collection #26, showcased the latest works from local brands MARCCH, MURFI LAU, and OUS. FASHIONALLY, dedicated to promoting young Hong Kong designers, will also host several presentations. FASHIONALLY Collection #26 will showcase the latest works of MARCCH, MURFI LAU, and OUS; while phenotypsetter, Oplus2, and Szmannie will launch their new collections via FASHIONALLY Presentation. Other fashion shows boast equally impressive lineups, gathering numerous renowned and emerging local and overseas brands. Local representatives include KEVYIU, VICTOR CHAN STUDIO x atelierYVF, Cixi Jewelry, Classics Anew, Doris Kath, and Cecilia Yau Couture. The overseas lineup features works by Slovakian designers Bráz Noémi and Mišena Juhász, presenting diverse creative styles to the industry and audience. CENTRESTAGE is not only a brand showcase but also a crucial platform for industry exchange and discussing future developments. The "Meet the Designer" session has invited renowned Korean designer Rok Hwang to share his valuable experience in founding his brand ROKH and stepping onto the international stage. Additionally, organisations such as AiDLab and the Australian Fashion Council will host seminars exploring hot topics like sustainable fashion and fashion technology, further promoting industry cooperation and solidifying Hong Kong's status as an Asian fashion hub. The exhibition also features various thematic shows and industry competitions to promote the preservation and innovation of fashion culture. These include the GBA Fashion Fushion organised by the Fashion Farm Foundation, the "Young Knitwear Designers' RUNWAY 2026" by the Knitwear Innovation and Design Society (KIDS), and the SPARKLE by KAREN CHAN brand show. Meanwhile, the Grand Final of the Redress Design Award 2026, the world's largest sustainable fashion design competition, and the "Create Outside the Box" Fashion Design Competition 2026 will take place consecutively. The grand finale, the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC) 2026, will be held on 5 September. A professional judging panel will select the winners of four major awards—Champion, Excellence Award, Best Art Direction, and My Favourite Collection—from 10 shortlisted designers, unearthing the next generation of fashion luminaries. The public is invited to vote online for the "My Favourite Collection" award, with a chance to win one of five HK$2,000 Lee Gardens e-gift certificates sponsored by Hysan Development. (Voting link: https://www.fashionally.com/en/s/ydc2026-vote) Multiple Interactive Zones with Immersive Trend Experience The exhibition features a variety of interactive zones, offering visitors an immersive fashion journey. Highlights include the Fashion Sound Lab, where participants can record the voice on-site at the Lab installation and download their self-generated songs via QR code for replay. They can also create a souvenir in the form of a vinyl-inspired record design. The SNAPIO Stand captures chic fashion moments, allowing guests to preserve their exclusive style memories. In addition, the French Cultural Salon at FIGARO Café provides a space for fashion enthusiasts to engage in in-depth exchanges, experience the fusion of culture and trends, and appreciate live gigs. The HKTDC continues to invite buyers from around the world to source at CENTRESTAGE, including major retailers such as Chinese Mainland's B1OCK, Dongliang, Italy's 10 Corso Como, Korea's Muninsa, United Kingdom's Dover Street Market London and Selfridges. CENTRESTAGE is held concurrently with the HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TE (1–5 September). Attendees can enjoy a one-stop shopping experience for global fashion apparel and luxury timepieces, and participate in the CENTRESTAGE X Watch & Clock Lucky Draw. Photo download: https://bit.ly/3T87B48 The 11th CENTRESTAGE officially opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, gathering a record-breaking some 270 international brands. This year, CENTRESTAGE debuts the Hype² zone, bringing together fashion brands led by local celebrities and KOLs to showcase the diverse charm of Hong Kong's streetwear culture. This year’s exhibition features seven themed zones, with the Urban Zone highlighting casual city fashion. Brands include 8FIVE2, founded by Julius Brian Siswojo, a member of Hong Kong’s hip hop group “24Herbs.” He was present on the opening day, engaging closely with the public and adding star power to the zone. The first runway show of the event, FASHIONALLY Collection #26, showcased the latest works from local brands MARCCH, MURFI LAU, and OUS. Ronja SCHERZINGER, CEO of FashionTouri International Enterprise, attended a sharing session to introduce how sustainable fashion can accelerate brand value. Korea became the exhibition's "Featured Partner" for the first time, creating its largest-ever pavilion with 22 participating brands. Organised by the Austrian Trade Commission, the Austrian pavilion presented a mini parade featuring seven fashion brands, showcasing the distinctive European flair and sustainability ethos of Austrian design. Some brands at the fair also offered retail sales, allowing visitors to purchase fashion apparel and accessories from around the world. Pictured is Cixi Jewelry from the Accessories zone. The fair also featured a number of interactive settings, including the FIGARO Café, a contemporary French-inspired cultural salon where fashion enthusiasts could connect, exchange ideas and experience the convergence of culture and fashion through an immersive journey. CENTRESTAGE: https://www.hktdc.com/event/centrestage/en CENTRESTAGE buyer online registration: https://bit.ly/4xydTct CENTRESTAGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centrestage_hktdc/?hl=tc Fashion Hong Kong: https://www.fashionhongkong.com/ Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC): https://www.fashionally.com/en/ Media enquiries PURPLE: Fiona Wong Tel: (852) 9221 1056 Email: fiona.wong@purplepr.com Yannis Sin Tel: (852) 6226 3398 Email: yannis.sin@purplepr.com HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department: Katy Wong Tel: (852) 2584 4524 Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org Jane Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4137 Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org HKTDC Newsroom: https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en 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.  About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) since 2009, was established in June 2024.  CCIDA is  a dedicated office under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative sectors with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate development of the arts, culture and creative sectors as industries.  CCIDA’s strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and multi-disciplinary collaboration, promoting industrialisation of the arts, culture and creative sectors under the industry-oriented principle, and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community, thereby reinforcing Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and our positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. About Hong Kong Fashion Fest Announced by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive in the 2023 Policy Address, "Hong Kong Fashion Fest" will be organised to develop Hong Kong into a fashion design hub in Asia. Through consolidating various fashion design events and introducing innovative elements and affiliate activities annually, the Hong Kong Fashion Fest promotes Hong Kong’s fashion and textile design brands and boosts Hong Kong’s position as a prime destination for hosting mega cultural and creative events. Under the theme "Rhythm of the Heart", the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest will be held from 1 to 14 September 2026 at various landmarks in Hong Kong. The event will bring together eight flagship programmes organised by six industry organisations and, for the first time, will be combined with CENTRESTAGE - the annual fashion extravaganza organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council - to generate stronger synergies. The event will attract fashion design industry players from all over the world to come to Hong Kong; foster collaboration, innovation and business opportunities; establish platform for local and international fashion designers and brands and connect with different sectors in the fashion design industry of Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and overseas, thereby consolidating Hong Kong’s position as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.

Sep 2 · 11:07ACN Newswire
AI · Energy

China-aided Laos' first integrated photovoltaic-storage-charging 'zero-carbon library' opens

HANGZHOU, CHINA, Sept 2, 2026 - Laos’ first zero-carbon library, built with support from Zhejiang Electric Power Corporation, officially opened at Luang Prabang Peace Secondary School on August 29. The library integrates solar power, energy storage and charging facilities, bringing a green energy solution to the school. This "green gift" from Zhejiang also carries special significance, coming in the 65th anniversary year of China-Laos diplomatic relations and the jointly declared "China-Laos Friendship Year." In June, Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party and President of Laos, visited China, with his first stop in Zhejiang, where both sides reached a series of agreements on deepening a China-Laos community with a shared future. Two months later, those agreements took root along the Mekong River in the form of a library. Inside, the outdoor heat gives way to cool air, with computers, televisions, bookshelves and Chinese-Lao bilingual books neatly arranged. Students can browse books, search the digital library, and study independently in a quiet, comfortable environment. "Since the China-Laos Railway opened, we have been exposed to many new things—concepts like artificial intelligence and the digital economy that we rarely heard of before. We are still students with few opportunities to go out, so reading has become our only way to broaden our horizons and gain knowledge," said Zalen, a second-year student at Luang Prabang Peace High School. However, local extracurricular reading resources are scarce; to find books beyond their textbooks, students often had to travel by train more than 200 kilometers to Vientiane, the capital—a two-and-a-half-hour journey one way. "Now the library is right outside the classroom. There are many books I want to read here, and there's air conditioning too. It feels especially convenient and comfortable," Zalen said. Principal Bounkham Vansy believes that this library is not just a reading room, but also a new channel connecting to the outside world. "This is another passage to the outside world after the China-Laos Railway, a path for students to gain new knowledge and ideas. The school will make good use of this library and manage it well, so that it can truly be integrated into daily teaching, provide students with more opportunities to learn and grow, and realize its greatest value," he said. Laos relies heavily on hydropower, and seasonal changes in water flow put pressure on the power supply during the dry season. Luang Prabang, in northern Laos, also has limited grid infrastructure in some areas, adding to the school's electricity challenges. Since upgrading the main power grid was difficult to achieve in the short term, a microgrid solution was adopted. The "Green Energy TO" public welfare team of State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Co., Ltd. decided to use China's mature integrated photovoltaic-storage-charging microgrid technology. The library was manufactured in factories in Zhejiang in the form of prefabricated cabins and completed in Laos in just four days. During the day, rooftop photovoltaic panels generate electricity, storing surplus power in an energy storage system that releases it at night to provide the library a stable energy supply. On the same day, an "Air Classroom" was also launched together with the library. When the big screen lit up, Luang Prabang Peace Secondary School on one side and Gaoqiao Junior High School in Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, on the other, "met" across a distance of 5,000 li. Chinese teachers introduced Lao students to Chinese culture and science through the screen. Zero-carbon engineer Lai Hanbin gave the children a lesson on new-type power systems, and volunteers from State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Co., Ltd. helped the children assemble a robot dog, drawing cheers as it walked across the lawn. Lao students in turn, shared their own culture, introducing the Lao New Year — the Water Splashing Festival. The most popular attraction was the UN Sustainable Development Goals science base beside the library. Students pedaled vigorously on power-generating bicycles, cheering. Looking at the photovoltaic panels and photovoltaic benches, the students said, "So this is green, low-carbon, and sustainable development!" "We have innovated a public welfare service model of 'new energy + new education', using green energy to support remote education and interactive learning to spread the concept of green and low-carbon development," said Zhang Jun, head of the "Green Energy TO" public welfare team of State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Co., Ltd. "In the future, the library will join hands with the Zhejiang Provincial Science Popularization Association, the Abin Volunteer Service Center of State Grid Hangzhou Power Supply Company, and Xiaoshan District Library of Hangzhou to provide children on both sides with 21 class hours of air classes across five dimensions, including natural science and traditional culture." From reading to classes, from online exchanges to hands-on experience, the library, the classroom and the science base are now connected—turning green energy into an everyday campus experience that students can read, discuss and practice. "This is a green practice that crosses mountains and seas," said Khamla Lianbadi, deputy secretary of the Luang Prabang Provincial Party Committee. "It has not only brought advanced power grid technology to Laos, but also sowed the development philosophy of 'lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets' and the beautiful ideal of jointly building a clean and beautiful world on this land." At the unveiling ceremony, representatives from both China and Laos also jointly planted a Champa tree, the national tree of Laos. A sapling has taken root, and a library has lit up dreams. From Zhejiang to Luang Prabang, this scent of books crossing mountains and seas is witnessing the China-Laos community with a shared future being continuously deepened and consolidated. (Luo Zhen, Zhu Xiaowei) Company: Zhejiang Electric Power Corporation Contact Person: Zhen Luo Email: gwhzgdgs@zj.sgcc.com.cn  Website: www.zj.sgcc.com.cn  City: Hangzhou

Sep 2 · 10:50ACN Newswire
AI · SaaS

Air Traffic Control (ATC) Market Trends and Growth Strategy 2026-2035 | UAV Integration Expands Airspace Management Opportunities

Opportunities center on ATC modernization through AI automation, advanced software, remote digital towers, satellite navigation and surveillance, UAV traffic management, cybersecurity, sustainable solutions and workforce training. Opportunities center on ATC modernization through AI automation, advanced software, remote digital towers, satellite navigation and surveillance, UAV traffic management, cybersecurity, sustainable solutions and workforce training.

Sep 2 · 08:56GlobeNewswire
Sustainability

AFL attracts strong investor interest in new EUR 500m 8-year Sustainability Bond

Press release 2 september 2026

Sep 2 · 08:09GlobeNewswire
Travel · Sports

M SOCIAL COLLECTIVE BRINGS SPORT, WELLNESS AND COMMUNITY TO TIMES SQUARE DURING US OPEN WEEK

M Social Collective: New York Times Square Edition united ATP players, wellness leaders and sustainability partners for two days of movement, recovery and connection at M Social Hotel New York Times Square Link to imagery: HERE Photo Credit: M Social Hotel New York Times Square NEW YORK,...

Sep 1 · 20:56PR Newswire
AI · SaaS

45th Watch & Clock Fair and 14th Salon de TIME open today

HONG KONG, Sep 1, 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, open today under the theme “Sparkling Moments Through Time”. The twin fairs have attracted more than 630 exhibitors from 16 countries and regions, creating the world's largest one-stop watch and clock marketplace.  The 45th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and the 14th Salon de TIME opened today. Guests at the opening ceremony included Algernon Yau (centre), Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong SAR Government; Sophia Chong (fourth from the right), HKTDC Executive Director; SK Chong (first from the right) and Frankie Lam (first from the left), Co-Chairmen of HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair 2026 Organising Committee; and various industry representatives The physical fairs are taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) for five consecutive days from 1 to 5 September. Meanwhile, the Click2Match AI-powered business matching platform will remain open until 12 September, allowing exhibitors and buyers worldwide to continue their business discussions online. The Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair showcases a wide variety of exquisitely crafted timepieces, accessories and components, offering a one-stop sourcing and trading platform for global buyers Salon de TIME will once again open to both industry professionals and the public for free. Selected brands will offer on-site retail sales, allowing visitors to purchase their favourite timepieces during the fair. A “Time Tunnel” has been specially created to celebrate the 45th edition of the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, allowing visitors to revisit three key stages in the fair’s development since its inception in 1982 The fairs officially opened today with an opening ceremony officiated by Algernon Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong SAR Government. Joining him were Sophia Chong, Executive Director of the HKTDC, and SK Chong and Frankie Lam, Co-Chairmen of the HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Organising Committee 2026. Speaking at the ceremony, SK Chong said: “This year marks the 45th edition of the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, a remarkable milestone for both the fair and Hong Kong’s watch and clock industry. The fair boasts a truly international line-up featuring strong global participation, including group pavilions from Francéclat, the Swiss Independent Watchmakers Pavilion, Guangzhou and Taiwan, as well as a first-time pavilion from Hengyang, Hunan province. In addition, we are pleased to welcome new exhibitors from Norway, Singapore and the US, further reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a premier international trading hub for the global watch industry.” HKTDC Executive Director Sophia Chong said: “Amid the ongoing reconfiguration of global supply chains and changing market demand, the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TIME continue to provide the industry with an efficient business platform. By leveraging Hong Kong’s unique strengths as a superconnector and super value-adder, we help enterprises explore new markets and seize emerging opportunities. The fairs also support the watch and clock industry in moving up the value chain and strengthening brand development, further reinforcing Hong Kong’s leading position as an international hub for watch and clock trade.” “Time Tunnel” celebrates 45th edition-Salon de TIME reaches a new high The Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair features multiple thematic zones covering every segment of the watchmaking value chain. Among them, Pageant of Eternity showcases premium finished watches from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and original design manufacturers (ODMs). One exhibitor, Time Grand Ltd, a Hong Kong company with more than 20 years of industry experience, provides product development, engineering design and manufacturing services for watch brands worldwide. The company also collaborates with Swiss watchmaking enterprises to offer one-stop watch production solutions, highlighting Hong Kong's strengths in connecting local expertise with international markets. Other exhibition zones cover a comprehensive range of products and services, including Complete Watches, Clocks, Machinery & Equipment, Packaging & Display, Parts, Components & Accessories, offering buyers a convenient one-stop sourcing platform. A “Time Tunnel” has been specially created to celebrate the 45th edition of the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, allowing visitors to revisit three key stages in the fair’s development since its inception in 1982: - 1980s to 1990s: The fair became a premier global sourcing platform for the watch and clock industry. - 2000s to 2020s: As Hong Kong’s watch industry evolved from OEM manufacturing to brand development, the fair became a professional platform for promotion, networking and industry exchange. - From 2020 onwards: The fair has further integrated manufacturing, sourcing and brand promotion, while expanding through cross-sector collaboration into a multifaceted platform that brings together craftsmanship, design, technology, lifestyle, culture and consumer engagement. Salon de TIME has reached a new record this year, attracting more than 150 watch brands from around the world. The event features six thematic zones, including Microbrands, where both the number of participating countries and regions and the number of brands have more than doubled compared with last year. A longstanding highlight of the fair, the World Brand Piazza returns for its 16th consecutive year, in collaboration with Prince Jewellery & Watch, showcasing luxury creations from six internationally renowned watch brands: Baume & Mercier, Corum, DeWitt, Franck Muller, Montblanc and Sarcar. Other themed zones include Chic & Trendy, Craft Treasure, Renaissance Moment and Wearable Tech. This year's exhibitors are introducing distinctive new timepieces that reflect the latest market trends, leveraging the fair to gain exposure and capture new orders. Featured innovative watches include: Sports and outdoor trends drive demand for professional timepieces To capitalise on the growing popularity of sports and outdoor lifestyles, exhibitors are showcasing professional sports watches that blend practicality with style. - EDOX presents the “The Water Champion” Delfin 1973 Automatic, featuring a double O-ring crown and pusher system that enhances water resistance to 200 metres. (Booth: 3F-H20) - Making its debut at the fair, Norwegian brand Micromilspec showcases the MILGRAPH, a timepiece developed for special operations forces. Its offset crown design helps reduce the risk of wrist injuries, while the QuadGrip bezel ensures easy operation even when wearing full tactical gear. (Booth: 3F-F22) - A variety of brands are also introducing sports and outdoor performance watches, including ALBA and LORUS by Seiko (Booth: 3G-E18), CAUGHT (Booth: 3F-D05), Quantum (Booth: 3G-C03), SPINNAKER (Booth: 3G-D02) and Slazenger (Booth: 3G-C03). Sustainability trend drives growth in eco-friendly timepieces As environmental protection and corporate social responsibility (ESG) continue to gain importance, the fair once again highlights exhibitors offering sustainable watch products through its Green Solutions Suppliers label, making it easier for buyers to identify environmentally conscious suppliers. - Local microbrand Sunrex showcases the Sunrex 611, powered by the brand’s proprietary VILUMINUS™ solar movement. Equipped solely with a solar-powered battery, the watch harnesses light as its energy source and continues to operate even in the absence of light. (Booth: 3F-F17) - Microbrand Robotfigs presents the Cubot watch, crafted from upcycled materials such as metal wires, copper and acrylic. Transforming everyday surplus materials into imaginative robot-inspired creations, each watch comes with a dedicated robot display stand and three exclusive designer toy accessories: a baseball bat, skateboard and dumbbell, redefining the concept of a “time companion”. (Booth: 3F-H24) - Several exhibitors are also showcasing environmentally friendly watches and accessories, including Hip Shing Leather Watch Straps Mfy Ltd (Booth: 1B-C35) and Gordon C & Co Ltd. (Booth: 1E-C09). Cross-sector collaborations and limited editions appeal to niche consumer segments Many brands are enhancing the value and artistic appeal of their timepieces through cross-industry collaborations and limited-edition releases. - LINK2CARE has partnered with Swiss watch brand MARVIN to launch a luxury smartwatch featuring a fishing-inspired relief dial and a bi-directional mechanical gear system that showcases MARVIN’s exquisite watchmaking craftsmanship. The watch features LINK2CARE’s patented leather strap, which incorporates medical-grade vital signs sensors, enabling wearers to monitor their health. (Booth: 3G-A07) - Memorigin presents the “Verdant Resonance Tourbillon Watch”, featuring a luminous carbon-fibre case designed to evoke the glow of fireflies under the night sky. A three-dimensional guzheng-inspired small-seconds display at the 9 o’clock position, complemented by green luminous incense-burner motifs, recreates the elegant atmosphere of traditional Chinese scholars’ gatherings. (Booth: 3F-C05) - The Swiss Independent Watchmakers Pavilion showcases the “Corleone Mini Collection” by Pilo & Co Genève, created to celebrate the brand’s 25th anniversary. Reinterpreting the classic Corleone design as a ladies’ watch, each colour variant is limited to just 10 pieces, making it highly collectible. (Booth: 3F-H07). Microbrands win over younger consumers with creative designs In recent years, microbrands have emerged as a new force in the watch industry, attracting younger consumers with their distinctive designs and competitive pricing. - Making its debut at the fair, US brand BREDA is showcasing the “Pulse Locket” Gold and Metal Bracelet Watch. Featuring a unique locket-style design, the watch dial remains concealed when closed and is revealed only when the wearer chooses to open it. (Booth: 3F-D16) - Other participating microbrands include CIMIER (Booth: 3F-H26), Fayy (Booth: 3F-G19), Leger A. Fah (Booth: 3F-H20), No Identity (Booth: 3F-H25), AISION (Booth: 3F-H20), INANLOU (Booth: 3F-F15), as well as the strap-focused microbrand Monves (Booth: 3F-F16). Exciting activities open to the public Salon de TIME will present a wide range of signature activities and watch showcases open to the public. On 4 September, renowned watch artist and collector Labeg will host a workshop on crafting watch models from corrugated cardboard. A special “Time Arena” zone has also been introduced this year, blending sports and fine timepieces to offer visitors a fresh, interactive experience. One highlight, “Watch2Care Smart x Lifestyle Experience Days”, will take place from 4 to 5 September and feature a variety of hands-on activities, including yoga and mobility training sessions. Visitors can try their hand at pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in recent years. Other highlights include a series of watch parades and new product launch events. Memorigin will welcome several celebrity guests, including celebrity Vic Teo, Hong Kong basketball star Alfred 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. Industry leaders share insights on market trends This year’s Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair features more than 40 events, including forums, seminars and networking sessions designed to foster industry exchange and knowledge sharing. The Hong Kong International Watch Forum, held today, brought together leaders of watch associations from the Chinese Mainland, Germany, France, Switzerland, Japan and Korea to share the latest trade statistics and industry developments in their respective markets. Discussions also explored new opportunities arising from integrating traditional watchmaking craftsmanship with emerging technologies. The Asian Watch Conference, to be held tomorrow (2 September), will be themed “Hong Kong as the hub of International Watch Trades”. The conference will feature a senior analyst from international research firm Euromonitor International (Hong Kong), who will provide insights into the latest developments in the global watch market. Representatives from online watch resale platform Chrono24 will discuss how to connect with demand across global markets, while a representative from Lazada Hong Kong will share strategies for leveraging e-commerce platforms to accelerate market expansion. On 3 September, FIYTA will hold an aeronautics launch event for a watch specially designed in honour of Lai Ka-ying, Hong Kong’s first female payload specialist. The company’s Chief Designer, Sun Lei, will also share the inspiration and design concepts behind the timepiece. Also taking place that day is the Tick-Tock Showtime: The Media Spotlight Pitch, jointly organised by Watch CataVlog. The event will feature presentations by 10 microbrands, with a judging panel comprising media representatives from Indonesia, the Middle East and Hong Kong, each selecting their favourite brand. On 4 September, the seminar “Off the Beaten Path: Indie Watchmakers vs. Independent Brands – Trends & Trajectories” will explore the distinctions, evolution and future trends of independent watchmaking and independent brands. Speakers include Noel Wong, Founder of Watch The World, Watch Collector & Discerning Commentator; Benjamin Hui, Watch Collector & Founder of Independent Watcher; and Lu Jinzhi, Chairman of ZBIOLAND. Throughout the fair, watch brands including Watch2Care, SAGA, Peacock, Sea-Gull, Shanghai Watch, Franck Muller, Quantum and INANLOU will host a series of new product launch events, unveiling their latest timepieces to an international audience. The 43rd Hong Kong Watch & Clock Design Competition, jointly organised by the HKTDC, the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd and the Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries Ltd, aims to promote watch design exchange 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. In addition, CENTRESTAGE, another flagship event organised by the HKTDC, will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 2 to 5 September. Bringing together fashion brands and designer collections from around the world, the event will create strong synergies with the watch fairs and offer visitors a one-stop destination to source prestigious timepieces and stylish fashion apparel from across the globe. Photo download: https://bit.ly/3UOXqBY The 45th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and the 14th Salon de TIME opened today. Guests at the opening ceremony included Algernon Yau (centre), Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong SAR Government; Sophia Chong (fourth from the right), HKTDC Executive Director; SK Chong (first from the right) and Frankie Lam (first from the left), Co-Chairmen of HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair 2026 Organising Committee; and various industry representatives The Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair showcases a wide variety of exquisitely crafted timepieces, accessories and components, offering a one-stop sourcing and trading platform for global buyers A “Time Tunnel” has been specially created to celebrate the 45th edition of the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, allowing visitors to revisit three key stages in the fair’s development since its inception in 1982 Salon de TIME features over 150 international brands and comprises six major themed zones, all of which are open to the public Sponsored for the 16th consecutive year by Prince Jewellery & Watch, the World Brand Piazza showcases six world-class watch brands This year’s Salon de TIME features a strong lineup of Guochao-inspired brands and Chinese watchmakers, showcasing their craftsmanship and creativity. Among them is Zbioland, which presents the Barcelona ZBL1009 timepiece. The watch is powered by the brand’s first in-house developed Calibre 961 movement and draws inspiration from the works of renowned Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, reflecting distinctive architectural aesthetics in its design This year's exhibition features an impressive collection of award-winning timepieces. Among them is CIGA Design's AVENTUR·Blue Planet, which features a three-dimensional rotating globe on the dial. The watch was honoured with the “Challenge Watch Prize” at the 2021 Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), widely regarded as the "Oscars" of the watchmaking industry During the fair period, a series of watch launch events and watch parades are being held, featuring models showcasing exquisite timepieces and bringing these remarkable creations to life on the runway The winning and shortlisted entries of the 43rd Hong Kong Watch and Clock Design Competition are currently on display in the foyer of Hall 1, showcasing local creative talent Media enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department: Johnny Tsui Tel: (852) 2584 4395 Email: johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.org Websites Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkwatchfair/en Salon de TIME: https://www.hktdc.com/event/te/en HKTDC Media Room: mediaroom.hktdc.com 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.

Sep 1 · 10:08ACN Newswire
Sustainability

Körber achieves Platinum in the 2026 EcoVadis sustainability rating

HAMBURG, Germany, Sept. 1, 2026 -- With its fourth consecutive EcoVadis assessment, Körber has improved once again and, after receiving Gold last year, has now achieved Platinum. This places the global technology company among the top 1 percent of all companies assessed...

Sep 1 · 09:00PR Newswire
Logistics · Sustainability

Everbridge and Arcadis Partner to Help Organizations Assess and Manage Climate Risk

VIENNA, Va., September 01, 2026--Everbridge, the global leader in High Velocity Critical Event Management (CEM) and national public warning solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with Arcadis, a global leader in design, engineering, and consultancy solutions. Together, the companies will help organizations better assess, manage, and reduce climate-related risks across their operations, facilities, and supply chains.

Sep 1 · 07:30Business Wire
AI · SaaS

GLOBAL POWER SOLUTIONS PROVIDES UPDATE ON POTENTIAL REACTIVATION OF PERU HOSPITAL PROJECT

Vancouver, British Columbia, Sept. 01, 2026 -- Global Power Solutions Corp. (TSXV: PWER) (FSE: NJA) (“Global Power” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update regarding the potential reactivation of a previously announced hospital development project in Peru involving EsSalud, Peru’s Social Health Insurance authority. The Company’s predecessor, Minaean SP Construction Corp., previously entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with EsSalud in connection with the proposed development and construction of a 224-bed hospital in Chiclayo, Lambayeque Province, Peru. The project did not advance during the period of political and administrative change in Peru, and the previous MOU has since expired. Representatives of the current EsSalud administration have recently expressed interest in reopening discussions regarding the proposed hospital project and potentially negotiating a new MOU with Global Power. The Company expects to receive formal correspondence from EsSalud regarding potential next steps. Should discussions progress, a new MOU would be required before the parties could proceed with further project development. Pete Medved, President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Power Solutions Corp., commented: “We are encouraged by the renewed interest in this project. The original hospital initiative represented a significant infrastructure opportunity for the Company, and we welcome the opportunity to re-engage with EsSalud and determine whether a new framework can be established to move the project forward. Our immediate focus will be on confirming the project requirements with EsSalud, reconnecting with our Canadian partners and evaluating an appropriate structure for potential Canadian participation.” Potential Canadian Consortium and Project Structure The previous project framework contemplated the formation of a Canadian consortium and potential participation by the Canadian Commercial Corporation (“CCC”), together with potential export-credit financing. If discussions with EsSalud progress, Global Power intends to re-engage with potential Canadian project partners and explore an appropriate consortium structure for consideration by CCC. Any participation by CCC, Export Development Canada (“EDC”) or another export credit agency would remain subject to their respective due diligence, review and approval processes. No financing arrangements or CCC participation have been finalized in connection with a renewed project. Next Steps Subject to further discussions with EsSalud, the Company anticipates that potential next steps may include: * receiving formal communication from EsSalud regarding the proposed reactivation of the project; * reviewing and confirming the current scope and requirements of the proposed hospital; * negotiating a new MOU with EsSalud; * re-engaging with potential Canadian consortium partners; and * evaluating potential project delivery and financing structures, including possible engagement with CCC and applicable export credit agencies. The Company will provide further updates if and when material developments occur. There can be no assurance that a new MOU will be executed, that CCC or any export credit agency will participate in the project, that financing will be obtained, or that the proposed hospital project will proceed on its previously contemplated terms or at all. About Global Power Solutions Corp. Global Power Solutions Corp. is expanding its business strategy to become a provider of innovative clean energy infrastructure designed to support the rapidly growing power requirements of AI data centres and mission-critical facilities. The Company is focused on developing hydrogen-enabled baseload power solutions that provide reliable, scalable and sustainable energy where traditional grid infrastructure is constrained or unavailable. In addition, Global Power continues its established operations in the manufacture of light gauge steel components and modular building systems for the construction industry. We seek Safe Harbor. On behalf of the Board: Global Power Solutions Corp. "Peter Medved " CEO Tel: 604.684.2181 | Email: info@globalpowercorp.com | https://globalpowercorp.com/ Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the business and operations of Global Power Solutions Corp. (“Global Power” or the “Company”). Forward-looking statements in this release may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the development and deployment of the Company’s modular hydrogen power systems, the identification and establishment of potential manufacturing or staging facilities, the integration of licensed and commercially available hydrogen technologies, potential system efficiencies, future commercial applications, and the ability of the Company to obtain any required regulatory approvals. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “plans,” “expects,” “is expected,” “scheduled,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “contemplates,” “proposes,” “estimates,” or similar expressions, or statements that certain actions, events, or results “may,” “could,” “would,” “might,” or “will” be taken, occur, or be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations, assumptions, and beliefs of management as of the date of this release. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements due to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks related to the development and commercialization of hydrogen energy technologies, the integration of third-party equipment and technologies, the availability of suitable manufacturing locations and partners, the ability to obtain necessary regulatory approvals, changes in economic or market conditions, supply chain factors, technological development risks, and the ability of the Company to successfully execute its business strategy. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events, or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements contained in this release are made as of the date of this release.

Sep 1 · 07:05GlobeNewswire