Tag: Local Biz

Darco’s Vietnam Clean Water Supply Project Commences Operations

SINGAPORE, Jun 19, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Darco Water Technologies Limited, a provider of integrated engineering and expertise-driven solutions for water treatment, wastewater management, clean water supply and vacuum solid waste management, announced the completion of the first phase of its water treatment and clean water supply project in Ba Lai district of Vietnam's Ben Tre Province, and the commencement of operations. It will supply 5,000m3 of clean water per day for up to 20,000 rural households. Upon completion of the second phase construction of the project in 2024, the plant will supply 15,000m3 of clean water a day to more households and industrial areas in the district of Ba Tri township and region of 15 communes in Ben Tre Province.

Grand opening ceremony of Darco Ba Lai Water Treatment Plant

Darco Ba Lai's donation of stationery supplies to 13 schools in 6 communes of Ba Tri District


The DBOO project is a joint venture (JV) with InfraCo Asia, a commercially managed infrastructure development and investment company of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG). On 17 June 2023, Darco and InfraCo Asia jointly organized a grand opening ceremony of Darco Ba Lai Water Treatment Plant to officially announce its commencement of operations. Distinguished guests at the event included the Chairman of the Ben Tre People's Committee, local government authorities, and representatives from the Singapore, Netherlands, and Australian Consulate Generals in Ho Chi Minh City.

The project has a 50-year lease from the Vietnam government commencing July 2017. According to the World Bank's Global Partnership for Results-Based Approaches (www.gprba.org), approximately 74% of the Vietnamese population is concentrated in rural areas, yet only 48% of households have access to clean water and must rely on polluted sources for basic household needs during the dry season." On 3 January 2022, Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Le Van Thanh, signed a decision approving the National Rural Clean Water Supply and Sanitation Strategy to supply 65% of rural residents with affordable clean water by 2030, and 100% of all rural residents by 2045. ( https://en.vietnamplus.vn/national-strategy-aims-to-provide-clean-water-to-rural-residents-by-2030/220029.vnp )

Darco's corporate ethos views ESG and CSR as inextricably tied to its business

The success of the Ba Lai project will showcase Darco's capabilities and present more opportunities for similar projects in Vietnam. However, Darco's Executive Chairman, Mr. Wang Zhi said, "More business is good for Darco, but we do not forget our commitment to give back to Society. We work hard to incorporate ESG and CSR initiatives into all our projects. We organized activities to interact with the local community and donated home and school supplies to the needy. There will be more to come."

InfraCo Asia's CEO, Ms. Claudine Lim said, "In partnering with Darco for the development of the Ba Lai project with, we found a partner with a complementary capability when it comes to technical skill sets and sector knowledge. Working together, we are proud to bring a water treatment plant online that will supply water to people in the surrounding communities, meeting international Health, Safety, Environmental, and Social (HSES) standards."

About Darco Water Technologies Limited

Darco Water Technologies Limited ("Darco" and with its subsidiaries "the Group") was founded in 1999 and listed on the Singapore Exchange in 2002. Darco is a provider of integrated engineering and expertise-driven solutions for water treatment, wastewater management, clean water supply and vacuum solid waste management. It has a well-established presence in China, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam, with a track record of projects delivered on time, on budget, and with high quality. Darco's scope of work includes design, fabrication, assembly, installation, and commissioning, as well as Design, Build, Own, Operate ("DBOO") projects. The Group generates additional revenue from post-EPC ("Engineering, Procurement, and Construction") maintenance services, which are supported by the service centres of its trading division, which supply essential chemicals and other products required for maintenance servicing. For more information, please visit www.darcowater.com.

About InfraCo Asia and The Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG)

InfraCo Asia is a commercially managed infrastructure development and investment company of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG). Headquartered in Singapore, InfraCo Asia catalyses greater private sector investment in infrastructure across South and Southeast Asia by providing funding and development expertise. InfraCo Asia funds early-stage development activities to realise socially responsible and commercially viable infrastructure that contributes to sustainable and inclusive economic growth. InfraCo Asia is currently funded by four members of PIDG – the governments of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Australia. For more information, please visit www.infracoasia.com

The Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) is an innovative infrastructure project developer and investor which mobilises private investment in sustainable and inclusive infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa and south and south-east Asia. PIDG investments promote socio-economic development within a just transition to net zero emissions, combat poverty and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). PIDG delivers its ambition in line with its values of opportunity, accountability, safety, integrity and impact. Since 2002, PIDG has supported 190 infrastructure projects to financial close which provided an estimated 220 million people with access to new or improved infrastructure. PIDG Technical Assistance (TA) can provide technical assistance and capital grants to the PIDG companies to meet a range of needs associated with an infrastructure project's life-cycle. PIDG TA can also provide up-front viability gap funding grants to support PIDG projects that require concessional funding to make a project with strong development impact financeable. PIDG is funded by the governments of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia, Sweden, Germany and the IFC. For more information, visit www.pidg.org.

Issued on behalf of Darco Water Technologies Limited
By Waterbrooks Consultants Pte. Ltd. https://www.waterbrooks.com.sg/

For media enquiries, please contact:
Wayne Koo
+65 9338 8166
wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg

Calvin Soon
+65 9199 0841
calvin@waterbrooks.com.sg

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

AIS partners King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi to launch the First Thailand Cyber Wellness Index

BANGKOK, Jun 16, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The key mission of AIS Aunjai Cyber has been to build awareness of the dangers and impacts from going online, by developing solutions and digital services to protect users and promote safety. The aim is to build up knowledge to promote intelligence and skills among digital citizens. Today this is being taken to a new level by building Thailand's first measure of digital skills, the Thailand Cyber Wellness Index, which measures digital knowledge, abilities and skills of each segment of the population.
AIS Chief Executive Officer Somchai Lertsutiwong


AIS Chief Executive Officer Somchai Lertsutiwong commented, "AIS operates its business on the basis of sustainability. We have been at the centre of the network to address the issue of cyber threats for over four years. Our ongoing work has given us the insight to remedy the issues efficiently. This is how we came to develop an index of digital knowledge and skills for each segment of the public. This will enable every agency involved to deploy tools and knowledge targeted at each segment of Thai society, and which are appropriate for the issues arising. We prepared the Thailand Cyber Wellness Index, the first of its kind in Thailand, in collaboration with King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) and a range of experts in technology, health, mass communication, education and evaluation to design a framework for the study. The survey methodology covered a range of age cohorts and occupational groups from every province all over Thailand, a total sample size of 21,862. The results are processed and analyzed to generate the Thailand Cyber Wellness Index."

The survey found that overall, Thai people's cyber wellness was at the "basic" level, while 44.04% were at the level of "must improve". This shows that Thailand needs to boost its learning and understanding of using digital among the people.

The company will continue to join forces to bring this index to the network of cyber-security that includes both the government and the private sector. This index is the property of the Thai public and is a compass showing the path to develop Thai digital skills safely and responsibly, with efficiency and sustainability in the future.

Source: AIS – Advanced Info Service

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Sri Trang Agro-Industry (SET:STA) Expands Business in Ivory Coast

BANGKOK, Jun 16, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Sri Trang Agro-Industry PCL (SET: STA), the world's leading fully integrated green rubber company and Thailand's largest producer of rubber gloves, has opened the Company's first raw material procurement center in Ivory Coast, aiming to expand its sources of raw material as well as providing agricultural knowledge to local rubber plantation farmers. The plan is to establish a total of five procurement centers in the country within next year. Ivory Coast is projected to have a production capacity of over 1.3 million metric tons of rubber this year, surpassing Vietnam and becoming the world's 3rd largest rubber exporter.
Sri Trang Agro-Industry PCL runs the business with expertise and sustainability from upstream to downstream. The World‘s Leading Fully Integrated Green Rubber Company specializing in rubber plantation management and natural rubber products, it is the only Thai rubber company dually listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET: STA) and the Singapore Exchange (SGX: NC2).


Mr. Veerasith Sinchareonkul, Managing Director and Executive Director of Sri Trang Agro-Industry PCL revealed that it had established a subsidiary last year in Ivory Coast, or Cote d'Ivoire, to support business expansion through procurement of raw materials from new sources, most recently on June 1. The Company commissioned the first center to assess raw material sources with high growth potential, while planning to open five procurement centers by 2024, expanding its capability and coverage in sourcing raw materials.

The primary driver behind the subsidiary and procurement centers in Ivory Coast is the suitable climate and environment or cultivating rubber trees, resulting in continuous increases in production. Therefore, the country holds significant potential for rubber production and export. The International Rubber Study Group (IRSG) estimated that by 2023 Ivory Coast is projected to have a total rubber production capacity of 1.31 million tons, an increase of 23 percent from 2021, with projections of 1.37 million metric tons and 1.42 million metric tons in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

At present, Ivory Coast is the world's 4th largest exporter of rubber, following Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. However, IRSG forecasts that Ivory Coast's rubber production will surpass Vietnam's and become the world's 3rd largest rubber exporter within this year.

"We recognize that accessing new supplies in Ivory Coast will greatly support the Company's business in terms of expanding the sources of raw materials. In addition, our on-ground team is also providing agricultural knowledge on rubber cultivation to rubber plantation farmers in Ivory Coast, further enhancing the country's capability as one of the world's top producers of high-quality raw materials," Mr. Veerasith added.

Released by Public Relations Dept., MT Multimedia Co., Ltd. for Sri Trang Agro-Industry PCL
For additional information, please contact: Wasana "Jeab" Wongsiri
Tel: +66 84 359 0659, +66 2 612 2081 ext.131; E: wasana.w@mtmultimedia.com

Sri Trang Agro-Industry PCL, www.sritranggroup.com/en/home
[SET: STA] [SGX: NC2] [FRA: YTAA] [OTCPK: SLJUY]

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

CleverTap strengthens EU compliance with local deployment

Mountain View, Calif, Amsterdam, Jun 15, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – CleverTap, the all-in-one engagement platform, further strengthened its compliance in the EU region, through data centers hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS) an Amazon.com, Inc. company (NASDAQ: AMZN). These are aimed at enhancing the protection of personal data belonging to EU residents and citizens.

"Whether it be with respect to our core product offerings or compliance with local data regulations, maintaining the highest standards of safety has always been a top priority for us at CleverTap. Coupled with adept on-ground go-to-market teams consisting of sales, customer success, product development and technical support, the local deployment of our platform within the EU will further enhance the CleverTap experience for our European clientele", said Pravin Laghaate, Vice President, Europe CleverTap. "The local deployment serves as a testament to our commitment towards not only delivering strong growth and Return on Investment (ROI) to our customers but simultaneously ensuring their data is safe and compliant", he added.

About CleverTap

CleverTap is the all-in-one customer engagement platform that helps brands personalize and optimize all consumer touch points to improve user engagement, retention, and lifetime value. It's the only solution built to address the needs of retention and growth teams, with audience analytics, deep-segmentation, multi-channel engagement, product recommendations, and automation in one unified product.

The platform is powered by TesseractDB(TM) – the world's first purpose-built database for customer engagement, offering both speed and economies of scale.

CleverTap is trusted by 2000 customers, including Electronic Arts, TiltingPoint, Gamebasics, Big Fish, MobilityWare, TED, English Premier League, TD Bank, Carousell, AirAsia, Papa John's, and Tesco.

Backed by leading investors such as Peak XV Partners, Tiger Global, Accel, and CDPQ the company is headquartered in Mountain View, California, with presence in San Francisco, New York, Sao Paulo, Bogota, London, Amsterdam, Sofia, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, and Jakarta. For more information, visit clevertap.com or follow on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this press release may represent CleverTap's belief in connection with future events and may be forward-looking statements, or statements of future expectations based on currently available information. CleverTap cautions that such statements are naturally subject to risks and uncertainties that could result in the actual outcome being absolutely different from the results anticipated by the statements mentioned in the press release.

Factors such as the development of general economic conditions affecting our business, future market conditions, our ability to maintain cost advantages, uncertainty with respect to earnings, corporate actions, client concentration, reduced demand, liability or damages in our service contracts, unusual catastrophic loss events, war, political instability, changes in government policies or laws, legal restrictions impacting our business, impact of pandemic, epidemic, any natural calamity and other factors that are naturally beyond our control, changes in the capital markets and other circumstances may cause the actual events or results to be materially different, from those anticipated by such statements. CleverTap does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness or updated or revised status of such statements. Therefore, in no case whatsoever will CleverTap and its affiliate companies be liable to anyone for any decision made or action taken in conjunction.

For more information:

SONY SHETTY
Director, Public Relations, CleverTap
+91 9820900036
sony@clevertap.com

VISHAAL MUDHOLKAR
Consultant
Archetype
+91 9724309069
vishaal.mudholkar@archetype.co

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

FRIED WITH PRIDE: Everyone has a seat at the table with KFC

BANGKOK, Jun 15, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – KFC Thailand loaded its buckets with three important ingredients at the "Proud To Be Pride Parade 2023": Love, Respect and Equal Opportunity. A trio of deep-fried values that've been coming in hot for KFC fans since 1952 – and this year's rainbowed streets of CentralWorld Square, were no exception.



A pride parade unlike any other, "Proud To Be Pride" lit up Bangkok as a love fest spectacular on 1 June. Presented by Muse by Metinee x CentralWorld x The United Nations Development Programme, this was one gathering of minds that certainly needed no introduction. KFC Thailand was front and centre, with its Pride placard quoting the Colonel's very first testimony from back in the day: 'Everyone gets a seat at the table.' And this year, everyone did. The Colonel's 2023 Thai team bucketed forth and joined hearts with their pledge for diversity, inclusion, and equality, specifically in the workplace. KFC took to the bright-striped avenues with life-size recruitment buckets, in support of equal opportunities for all.

Spectators, marchers and even musicians were embraced and ushered by zealous KFC-stars to the KFC Walk-In Recruitment Buckets – where the table was duly laid with the freedom to be your best self, no matter what. Everyone was invited to step in and apply for some of the hottest KFC job vacancies this side of the menu. This was undoubtedly a proud moment for the KFC squad.

"At KFC Thailand, we're not just about chicken; we're about people – and encouraging people to bring their best selves to the party," says Sakechai Choomuenwai, General Manager of KFC Thailand. "We're an inclusive organization that goes above and beyond to cultivate a workplace where human values like Love, Respect and Pride are always dished up first," says Choomuenwai.

With its zero-discrimination policy, and an all-time customer promise to serve its patrons with friendship, KFC Thailand makes no bones about its uncapped celebration of LGBTQ+ rights, applying the essence of diversity and equality to every touchpoint in and outside of its business. For KFC, Pride is not only reserved for the month of June, but rather, "Pride is a way of service and a way of life," adds Choomuenwai, "and so too is individualism. If we can continue to provide an environment where our team members feel safe and comfortable to openly express themselves, then we're doing our jobs, and we're doing them well," ends Choomuenwai.

By affording equal and fair career opportunities, KFC Thailand continues to stand strong against the backdrop of diversity and inclusion and holds true to its deeply-ingrained wishbone: to nourish a nation of dreamers, doers and achievers – and to do it with a whole lot of zing!

#KFCThailand #musebymetinee #UNDPthailand #centralwOrld #CTWprOudtObepride #PrideMonth2023

About KFC

KFC, one of the largest brands of quick service restaurants (QSR) and is popular all over the world. Founded by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1952 with a commitment to improving and offering delicious and unique fried chicken menu of excellent quality to customers who love fried chicken. In Thailand, the first KFC store was established in 1985 at Central Ladprao Department Store. Currently, there are 978 KFC branches nationwide (as of October 2022). Brand and franchise management by YUM Restaurants International (Thailand) Co., Ltd. and KFC restaurant management by 3 franchisees: Central Restaurants Group Co., Ltd. (CRG), Restaurant Development Co., Ltd. (RD), The QSR of Asia Co., Ltd. (QSA).

Source: KFC Thailand

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Harrods International Academy Launches New Campus in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Jun 15, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Harrods International Academy's sixth campus was inaugurated by Secretary of State to Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Dr Soeung Rathchavy on June 8 – a major achievement for Harrods, which has been providing international and dual education to students for nearly a decade.
Harrods International Academy – Inauguration of Harrods Campus 6 by H.E Dr Soeung Rathchavy at Phnom Penh on Jun 8, 2023. Mr Atul Temurnikar, GSF Chairman was also present on the occasion.


Dr Soeung cut the ceremonial ribbon to inaugurate the campus that will provide International and Dual Curriculum to Lower Primary students from Year 1 to Year 3. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Soeung said: "Harrod's efforts at providing quality national and international education is of critical importance and of substantial contribution to Cambodia's human resource development, particularly in the growth of talented and intelligent children."

Harrods International Academy is part of the renowned Global Schools Foundation, which has a presence in 10 countries with 35 campuses, imparting education to more than 31,500 students. The new campus will continue the Foundation's tradition of providing new-age education fit for 21st-century aspirations through modern infrastructure in a digital environment.

Campus 6 marks a new frontier for the GSF school in Cambodia, bringing quality International Primary curriculum for students to strengthen their academic and extracurricular skills through activities like arts, sports, music and languages.

GSF Co-founder and Chairman Mr Atul Temurnikar hailed it as a major step in the right direction for Harrods International Academy. "Campus 6 is a great addition to our family of schools. In the last 9 years, Harrods has shown remarkable dedication to the cause of quality education for the new generation. The new campus will continue this tradition," he said.

Harrods International Academy, Campus 6 offers a comprehensive Lower Primary educational programme that includes IPC as well as Dual Curriculum. The school also features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, science labs, libraries, and sports facilities.

About Global Schools Foundation (GSF)

GSF, a Singapore-based not-for-profit foundation that reinvests for growth, has a network of 35 campuses across 11 countries including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Cambodia, United Arab Emirates, and Malaysia where 32,000 students from 70 nationalities study. It is a recipient of over 450 international education excellence awards from national quality organisations. In addition to International Baccalaureate and Cambridge IGCSE, its schools provide American, IPC, CBSE and ICSE curriculum.

About Harrods International Academy

Harrods International Academy is the fastest growing school of GSF. It has been operating five campuses in Cambodia since 2014, with two more campuses to be added to the HIA family this year. Students of Harrods get multi-curricular education, with a well-defined tertiary programme that includes Cambridge Advanced 'A' Levels and Harrods Secondary Certificate (HSC). It provides students with a way to a good university education.

Contact Information
Rupali Karekar
Divisional Manager
rupali.karekar@myglobalschool.org
+6598734320

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

APB Announces Entrance of Press Metal Co-Founder as Substantial Shareholder

SHAH ALAM, Malaysia, Jun 14, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – APB Resources Berhad, a fabricator of design engineering equipment, today announced that Dato' Koon Poh Tat has emerged as a substantial shareholder in the Group with a direct 5.73% stake following the acquisition of 6.35 million shares.
Marcus Chin Choon Wei, Executive Director of APB

Dato' Koon Poh Tat, Substantial Shareholder of APB


The shares were acquired on 13 June 2023 from the open market. Dato Koon is a co-founder and Executive Director of Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad, an integrated aluminium producer. He is also Executive Director of PMB Technology Berhad, a fabricator of aluminium facade systems for buildings.

At the same time, the Group is also pleased to announce the appointments of Dato Sri Abdul Rahim Jaafar as Chairman, Mr. Liaw Wei Gian as Executive Director and Mr. Chin Choon Wei as Executive Director.

Dato Sri Abdul Rahim retired from the Royal Malaysian Police in 2021 as Director of the Department of Internal Security and Public Order. He is a member of the Police Force Commission. He is also the Chairman of Artroniq Berhad.

Liaw is an Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Artroniq and Chin is Chief Financial Officer of Artroniq.

Dato' Koon said, "We are delighted to come onboard APB and look forward to working with the rest of the Board of Directors (BoD) as well as the entire team to bring more success to the Group. We see lots of opportunities that we can take advantage of that can enhance the performance of APB in the longer term."

Executive Director of APB, Mr. Chin Choon Wei said, "I am confident that the new members of APB's BoD will help guide the Group to expand its market presence as a fabricator of design engineering equipment. I note the outlook for the industry is improving as capital spending picks up from the chemicals, oil palm and power generation industries."

APB's share price as of today closes at 2.92sen, an increase of 29.78% compared to yesterday's 2.25sen.

APB Resources Bhd: 5568 [BURSA: APBB] [RIC: APBS:KL] [BBG: APBB:MK], https://www.apb-resources.com/

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

HKTDC Export Index 2Q23: Exporter confidence hits two-year high

HONG KONG, Jun 13, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The HKTDC Export Index rose 8.8 points to 47.8 in the second quarter this year, showing better business sentiment among Hong Kong exporters after Mainland China's borders reopened and business activities return to normal.
HKTDC Director of Research Ms Irina Fan [L] and Senior Economist Ms Cherry Yeung [R] announced
the HKTDC Export Index for the second quarter of 2023 at a press conference today.


All major industries and export markets rallied except for clothing, with toys (55.4, up 7.5 points) and machinery (50.3, up 7.4 points) moving above 50 into expansion territory while, among markets, the European Union (51.4, up 9.4 points) and United States (51.1, up 6.7 points) turned positive for the first time in five years.

Based on a quarterly Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) survey of 500 exporters from six major industries – machinery, electronics, jewellery, timepieces, toys and clothing – the index at above 50 indicates an optimistic outlook, and below 50 pessimistic.

Export outlook upbeat

HKTDC Senior Economist Ms Cherry Yeung said three new sub-indices – inventory (48.5), current new orders (45.1) and expected new orders (53.6) – provided a more comprehensive exporter sentiment picture. Respondents – especially those from toys, timepieces and machinery sectors – expected strong growth in new export orders in July-September.

The profitability outlook improved as more respondents (66.3%, up 15.3 percentage points from the final quarter of last year) expected higher or stable net profit margins for this year.

"Against this backdrop, the city's exporters have adjusted their business strategies, shifting the focus from cash-flow management to spending more resources on marketing, promotion and business matching (41.6%, up 11.7 percentage points from previous quarter) and diversifying sales into additional overseas markets (31.1%)," Ms Yeung said.

All sub-indices rise

Other sub-indices grew this quarter with the Trade Value Index and Employment Index edged up 0.8 point to 48.8 and 0.5 point to 48.1 respectively, while the Procurement Index leapt 15.9 points to 44.3.

The Offshore Trade Index, which tracks sentiment around shipments not passing through Hong Kong but managed by businesses within the city, soared 18.5 points to 46.5, "signalling a sustained recovery in demand for Hong Kong's trading services", Ms Yeung added.

Growing economic risks

The survey results also revealed a slower-than-expected recovery of cargo routed through Hong Kong. Only 13.4% (down 23.1 percentage points from previous quarter) of related respondents expected an increase this year. As of last month, the number of cross-boundary vehicles at all crossings for goods vehicles and containers reached a plateau at about 60% of the pre-pandemic level. Some industry players said reduced capacity had raised cross-border logistics costs between 20% and 30% from pre-pandemic levels, slowing the recovery.

The biggest risk was seen as an external one, with most respondents (66.1%, up 29.9 percentage points from the final quarter last year) recognising an economic slowdown or recession in overseas markets as the top challenge to export performance over the third quarter this year.

Sustained recovery

Affected by weakened global demand, a slower-than-expected recovery in cross-border land transport capacity, coupled with a longer-than-expected downcycle in the electronics sector, Hong Kong's total exports fell 16.5% year-on-year in the first four months of this year. Among markets, the Middle East grew 11.5%, driven by the two economies' closer economic and trade ties. Stimulated by a post-pandemic spike in demand in Mainland China and Macao, Hong Kong's precious jewellery exports to the two markets surged 32% and 42% respectively.

HKTDC Director of Research Ms Irina Fan said the recovery was gathering momentum for the second half of this year which was likely to carry into next year. "However, traders remain cautious, with many concerned about the challenging external backdrop. The risk of escalating geopolitical tensions, may create uncertainties for electronics trade flows throughout the region, especially those relating to the semi-conductor industry," she said.

Taking all these factors into account, HKTDC Research has revised its forecast for Hong Kong export growth this year down from earlier estimate of 5% to between 0% and 2%.

References
– HKTDC Research website: http://research.hktdc.com/
– HKTDC Export Index 2Q23: Confidence at Two-Year High https://bit.ly/3Nk5wfP
– 2023 Mid-Year Export Review: Recovery Set to Accelerate in the second half https://bit.ly/42Ay2y2
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3Ce0P0A

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

Media enquiries
Please contact the HKTDC's Communication and Public Affairs Department:
Beatrice Lam, Tel: +852 2584 4049, Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Retail Industry and Experts from Asia Celebrate the Success of Retail Industry in Singapore

SINGAPORE, Jun 13, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The recently concluded Etail- Asia's Premier e-commerce and digital marketing retail summit, hosted by Worldwide Business Research (WBR), held on June 6-8, 2023 exceeded all expectations, attracting industry leaders, visionaries, and retail enthusiasts from around the globe. WBR started the eTail conversation in 1999 to create an impactful retail community. Since then, this platform has been fortunate to collaborate with thousands of retailers – from massive Fortune 500 institutions to small, scrappy startups – to deliver tangible and lasting growth to over 20,000 retail leaders. The country simultaneously witnessed another retail gathering Phygital Sundowner which was held on 7th June '23 at Osia Steak, Resorts Sentosa World.


Etail Conclave 2023 and Phygital Sundowner witnessed an exceptional turnout, with participants representing various organizations, including established retail giants, innovative startups, and influential thought leaders. The platforms served as a dynamic stage for exchanging insights, fostering new connections, and collectively shaping the future of retail.

Harshavardhan Chauhaan, VP, Chief Marketing & Omnichannel Officer – Spencer's Retail & Nature's Basket, delivered an inspiring keynote at Etail Asia along with other esteemed industry experts, shedding light on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities within the retail landscape. His thought-provoking vision for the industry left attendees inspired and equipped with valuable insights to drive their businesses forward. With a background in Computer Science Engineering and a track record of two decades of success in retail, eCommerce, and consumer business, Harshavardhan's keynote presented a wealth of experience and a clear vision to revolutionize the sector.

Harshavardhan quips, "Etail Conclave 2023 and Phygital Sundowner surpassed my expectations, and we are thrilled with the positive response it has received. Events like these are the need of the hour as they provide a platform for industry leaders, innovators, and retail enthusiasts to come together and shape the future of retail."

The conclave (Etail) featured a series of interactive panel discussions led by industry veterans, covering a wide range of topics, including digital transformation, sustainable practices, experiential retail, and consumer behaviour. Attendees actively participated, sharing their experiences, perspectives, and best practices, resulting in lively and productive discussions. Attendees at Phygital Sundowner had an opportunity to explore and experience first-hand the latest advancements shaping the retail industry, creating a truly immersive and inspiring environment.

Harshavardhan adds, "Sustainability lies at the core of my vision for South Asia's retail industry. I strongly recommend eco-friendly practices, reduced carbon footprint, and ethical sourcing and production. By encouraging retailers to embrace sustainable materials, energy-efficient operations, and responsible waste management, I aim to build an environmentally conscious and socially responsible ecosystem. Both the events had an extensive networking opportunity, enabling attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, forge valuable partnerships, and explore collaborative ventures."

About Mett.ai

Mett.ai is a dynamic and forward-thinking integrated 360 degree communications firm that is redefining the industry through innovative strategies and cutting-edge approaches in Asia. Based out of Singapore as a modern communications consultancy, we understand that the media landscape is rapidly evolving, and we are dedicated to staying ahead of the curve to ensure our clients' success.

At Mett.ai we pride ourselves on our ability to seamlessly blend traditional communications practices with an emerging digital trends. Our team of experienced professionals brings a wealth of expertise and a fresh perspective to every client engagement. We thrive on creativity, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of our clients' goals, enabling us to deliver exceptional results that drive brand awareness, reputation enhancement, and increased visibility.

For more information, visit www.Mett.ai.

For further details contact:
Mett.ai Communications PTE Ltd
ganesh@mett.ai
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Doubleview Gold Corp. Provides Drilling Update on Hat Project Exploration

Vancouver, BC, Jun 12, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Doubleview Gold Corp. (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (GERMANY: A1W038) (referred to as the "Company" or "Doubleview") is pleased to announce recent progress at its Hat Project. Following the Company's winter program of data compilation and interpretation, and a spring program of camp improvements, a series of drill holes are being directed to parts of the main Lisle Zone. Thus far, drill holes H052 and H053, located in the middle-west part of the deposit have been completed. These holes were positioned to confirm continuity within that area and were successful in validating our model. Both drill holes intersected sulphide mineralization, including sections of very strong chalcopyrite and very strong pyrite mineralization that has historically been associated with significant gold content.

Holes H052 and H053 were drilled from the same collar location as holes H049, H050, and H051. H052 was drilled at azimuth 135 degrees, dip -60o and total length 540 m; hole H053, at 105o, dip -70o and total length 441 m. These drill holes encountered chalcopyrite, pyrite and magnetite and confirm the west continuity of the Lisle Zone. Drill cores are being processed at the HAT camp and core samples will be transferred to Dease Lake and securely trucked to an accredited laboratory located in North Vancouver, British Columbia for expedited analysis.

Farshad Shirvani, Doubleview President and CEO commented "The current drill program is designed to maximize the results and quality of the NI43-101 resource estimate that is currently in progress for the HAT deposit."

Mr. Shirvani stated, "Many countries around the world are increasingly seeking critical metal supplies from North America, where high demand and an impending shortage have been predicted. Notably, the United Kingdom and South Korea have demonstrated their interest in securing these critical metals from the United States and, and the Government of British Columbia respectively, signifying the anticipated surge in market demand."

"Doubleview's Hat project is endowed with a substantial number of these critical metals, which places Doubleview and our investors in a truly advantageous position."

The Company's exploration program continues, and updates will be provided as further information becomes available.

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Qualified Persons:

Erik Ostensoe, P. Geo., a consulting geologist, and Doubleview's Qualified Person with respect to the Hat Project as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed, and approved the technical contents of this news release. He is not independent of Doubleview as he is a shareholder in the company.

About Doubleview Gold Corp

Doubleview Gold Corp., a mineral resource exploration and development company, is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and is publicly traded on the TSX-Venture Exchange (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (GERMANY: A1W038) (FSE: 1D4). Doubleview identifies, acquires and finances precious and base metal exploration projects in North America, particularly in British Columbia. Doubleview increases shareholder value through acquisition and exploration of quality gold, copper and silver properties and the application of advanced state-of-the-art exploration methods. The Company's portfolio of strategic properties provides diversification and mitigates investment risks.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Farshad Shirvani, President & Chief Executive Officer

For further information please contact:
Doubleview Gold Corp
Vancouver, BC Farshad Shirvani
President & CEO
T: (604) 678-9587
E: corporate@doubleview.ca

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information." In particular references to the private placement and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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