Category: What’s News Asia

Facility provides working-capital flexibility to bridge reimbursement timing under more than C$15 million of previously announced non-dilutive federal funding

Ottawa, Ontario – Newsfile Corp. – September 14, 2026 – Focus Graphite Inc. (TSXV: FMS) (OTCQB: FCSMF) (FSE: FKC0) (“Focus” or the “Company“), a Canadian developer of high-grade flake graphite deposits and advanced graphite materials for battery, defence and industrial applications, is pleased to announce that it has established a secured revolving line of credit facility of up to C$2.0 million (the “Facility“) with Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (“CIBC“).

The Facility provides Focus with additional working-capital flexibility as the Company advances work programs supported by previously announced non-dilutive government funding agreements. In particular, the Facility is intended to help bridge the timing between Focus’s payment of eligible project expenditures, the subsequent submission and review of claims under applicable contribution agreements, and the receipt of corresponding government contributions.

Focus has secured more than C$15 million in previously announced non-dilutive federal funding to support development of its Lac Knife Graphite Project and downstream graphite-processing initiatives. This includes up to approximately C$14.1 million in non-repayable funding from Natural Resources Canada (“NRCan“) under the Global Partnerships Initiative (“GPI“), announced December 8, 2025, and up to C$1,378,700 in non-repayable funding under NRCan’s First and Last Mile Fund (“FLMF“), announced June 3, 2026.

The GPI funding supports Focus’s program to advance electrothermal purification of Canadian natural flake graphite and the development, piloting and demonstration of ultra-high-purity graphite production capabilities. The FLMF funding supports engineering, environmental, permitting, Indigenous engagement and feasibility activities associated with planned road and electrical infrastructure serving the Company’s Lac Knife Graphite Project in Quebec.

As these programs move further into active execution, Focus expects the scale and frequency of eligible expenditures to increase. The Facility is intended to provide liquidity during the period between the Company’s payment of qualifying project costs and receipt of eligible government contributions, allowing capital to be recycled as reimbursements are received while maintaining continuity across funded work programs. All funding remains subject to the terms, eligible expenditure requirements and reimbursement procedures of the applicable contribution agreements.

Importantly, no common shares, warrants or other securities of Focus were issued in connection with the Facility. The Company believes the addition of conventional bank financing provides greater flexibility to manage short-term working-capital requirements while reducing the need to access the equity markets solely to bridge reimbursement timing.

Dean Hanisch, Chief Executive Officer of Focus Graphite, commented, “The scale of non-dilutive government funding Focus has secured creates an important opportunity to advance Lac Knife, related infrastructure and our downstream technology programs while preserving shareholder capital. Because these contribution programs generally require eligible expenditures to be incurred before reimbursement is received, this revolving facility gives us an efficient way to bridge that timing difference and maintain momentum across our funded work programs. Our intention is to use the Facility as a working-capital bridge, reduce borrowings as approved government contributions are received and recycle that availability into subsequent phases of work where appropriate. Adding conventional bank credit gives us greater financial flexibility without issuing equity or warrants and supports our broader objective of minimizing unnecessary shareholder dilution as we execute on these programs.”

CIBC Revolving Credit Facility

Under the Facility, Focus has access to a revolving demand line of credit of up to C$2.0 million. Amounts drawn under the Facility bear interest at CIBC’s Prime Rate plus 2.00% per annum. Principal amounts borrowed and subsequently repaid may be re-borrowed, providing Focus with flexibility to manage recurring working-capital requirements as its funded programs progress.

Amounts outstanding under the Facility are repayable on demand. The Facility is secured by a first security interest over the present and after-acquired personal property of Focus Graphite Inc. and is supported by an unlimited guarantee from the Chairman of Focus Graphite.

The Facility may be used for day-to-day cash flow requirements, including working capital associated with the timing of expenditures and reimbursements under the Company’s government-supported programs, as well as for general corporate working-capital purposes.

While the Facility is intended to reduce the Company’s reliance on equity financing for these short-term requirements, it does not preclude Focus from accessing the equity markets or other sources of capital in the future where the Company determines such financing is appropriate to advance its broader development strategy.

About Focus Graphite Advanced Materials Inc.
Focus Graphite is building an integrated graphite platform to supply the industries shaping the future. Through the development of world-class graphite resources, advanced processing technologies and higher-value advanced materials, the Company is positioning itself to support battery, defence, advanced manufacturing and other strategic industries across North America and allied markets.

The platform is anchored by the Company’s two 100%-owned graphite assets in Quebec. Lac Knife is one of North America’s highest-grade feasibility-stage graphite deposits, while Lac Tetepisca is one of the largest identified graphite resources globally. Together with strategic technology partnerships and government-supported innovation initiatives, these assets provide the foundation for a secure, scalable and increasingly integrated graphite supply chain.

For more information on Focus Graphite Inc., please visit http://www.focusgraphite.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/focus-graphite/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focusgraphite
X: https://x.com/focusgraphite

Investors Contact:
Dean Hanisch
CEO, Focus Graphite Inc.
dhanisch@focusgraphite.com
+1 (613) 612-6060

Jason Latkowcer
VP Corporate Development
jlatkowcer@focusgraphite.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words “could,” “intend,” “expect,” “believe,” “will,” “projected,” “estimated,” and similar expressions, as well as statements relating to matters that are not historical facts, are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company’s current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events.

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the Company’s intended use of the C$2.0 million revolving credit facility with CIBC; the Company’s ability to draw, repay and re-borrow amounts under the Facility in accordance with its terms; the use of the Facility to support working-capital requirements and to bridge the timing between the incurrence and payment of eligible project expenditures and the submission, review and receipt of corresponding government contributions; the anticipated timing, availability and receipt of reimbursements under previously announced funding agreements with Natural Resources Canada, including the Global Partnerships Initiative and First and Last Mile Fund; the Company’s ability to satisfy applicable eligibility, reporting, reimbursement and other requirements under those funding agreements; the continued advancement and execution of work programs supported by such non-dilutive government funding, including activities related to the Lac Knife Graphite Project, associated infrastructure and the Company’s downstream graphite purification initiatives; the Company’s expectations regarding the scale and timing of expenditures under those programs; the potential for the Facility to provide additional financial and working-capital flexibility, maintain continuity across funded work programs and reduce the Company’s need to access the equity markets solely to bridge reimbursement timing; the Company’s ability to reduce borrowings as government contributions are received and to recycle availability under the Facility into subsequent phases of work where appropriate; and the Company’s future capital requirements and ability to access equity financing, debt financing or other sources of capital where the Company determines such financing is appropriate to advance its broader development strategy.

Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks related to market conditions, regulatory approvals, changes in economic conditions, the ability to raise sufficient funds on acceptable terms or at all, operational risks associated with mineral exploration and development, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s public disclosure documents available under its profile on SEDAR+.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties, and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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

Buy Today, Get Today sees strong adoption as Malaysians embrace faster fulfilment this 9.9

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 – Over 60% of orders placed during Shopee’s 9.9 Super Shopping Day were shipped within 24 hours, underscoring the growing importance of speed and convenience in online shopping. This trend reflects how faster fulfilment, greater value, and more engaging product discovery are increasingly influencing Malaysians’ shopping decisions.

Buy Today, Get Today Sees Stronger Adoption

Instant and Same Day Delivery saw strong adoption during 9.9, enabling shoppers to receive eligible purchases on the same day they placed their orders. The average time from order placement to delivery was reduced by 20% compared with 9.9 last year.

This growing demand for faster fulfilment comes as online shopping extends beyond discretionary purchases to everyday essentials, with home improvement products, skincare, and pet supplies among the top choices during 9.9. As shoppers rely on e-commerce for everyday needs, faster delivery options offer greater convenience for purchases they need sooner.

Shopee VIP Gains Traction as Shoppers Seek Greater Value

As Malaysians looked for greater value during 9.9, Shopee VIP offered members early access to special member-only benefits, including exclusive knockout deals, daily vouchers and free shipping perks, helping them save more on every order.

Building on these benefits, VIP subscribers collectively unlocked savings of more than RM146 million throughout the sale. As frequent shoppers recognised the value offered through the subscription, the number of active VIP users grew 1.3X from the average day earlier this year, highlighting how members tapped into these benefits to enjoy greater value during the sale.

Content Shapes How Malaysians Shop

Entertainment and product discovery went hand in hand, as Malaysians turned to Shopee Live and Shopee Video for engaging content, while discovering products, recommendations and deals from creators and sellers.

Together, Shopee Live and Shopee Video recorded more than 1.7 billion views during 9.9, a 1.3X increase from the previous year as Malaysians tuned in for special appearances by Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day Ambassadors Aisha Retno and Anggrek, alongside popular personalities such as Dato’ Sri Aliff Syukri.

“Shopee Live has helped us reach more customers and expand our product exposure. With Shopee’s content ecosystem, VIP benefits and fast delivery, we were able to enhance the customer experience and drive more orders, achieving RM100,000 in sales within just two hours,” said Dato’ Sri Aliff Syukri, Managing Director, and Datin Sri Nur Shahida, Executive Director of Shahida D’Herbs.

Evolving the Shopping Experience to Meet Changing Shopper Expectations

From faster fulfilment for everyday purchases to unlocking savings through Shopee VIP and discovering products through interactive content, Shopee’s 9.9 Super Shopping Day highlighted how speed, value and content-led discovery come together to shape a more seamless online shopping experience.

Lim Wei, Head of Marketing at Shopee Malaysia, said, “Shopping today is no longer just about finding a good deal. Malaysians are increasingly looking beyond price — from discovering and learning about products to receiving their purchases sooner. As such, we are doubling down on our efforts to enhance Shopee’s role as a convenient and rewarding part of Malaysians’ everyday shoppings.”
Hashtag: #Shopee

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

About Shopee

Shopee is the largest e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, and is a leading e-commerce platform in Brazil. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities.

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the digital economy, with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a global technology company. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena, and Monee.

Reinsurance panel carries an average A+ financial strength rating from AM Best or S&P; treaty deepens security behind each financial guarantee Verdant Rock issues and unlocks capacity for future growth

HAMILTON, BERMUDA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 – Verdant Rock Limited (“Verdant Rock”), a Bermuda‑based Class 3B insurer and financial guarantor focusing on emerging markets, has closed a 30% quota share reinsurance treaty with a panel of leading global reinsurers. The panel carries an average financial strength rating of A+ from either AM Best or S&P, marking a significant milestone for the company less than a year after receiving its Class 3B insurance license from the Bermuda Monetary Authority.

The treaty supports Verdant Rock’s portfolio of irrevocable, unconditional and on-demand financial guarantees on private corporate, structured and project finance exposures across emerging markets. By sharing 30% of risk with highly rated capacity providers, Verdant Rock further strengthens its balance sheet, diversifies its capital base and enhances scalability for future growth.

“Securing a reinsurance panel of this caliber, rated A+ on average, at this stage of our development is a strong validation of our underwriting framework and our approach to governance. Every guarantee Verdant Rock issues now carries an additional layer of security from counterparties that have spent time understanding and believing in what we are building. We are grateful to each panel member for their confidence in us.” — Tolga Uzuner, Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Verdant Rock Limited

This announcement is (i) for information only; (ii) not an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security, insurance product, or financial guarantee; and (iii) not for distribution in any jurisdiction where to do so would be unlawful. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results, and Verdant Rock undertakes no obligation to update them. A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any security and may be subject to revision, suspension or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating agency.

Hashtag: #VerdantRock

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

ABOUT VERDANT ROCK

Verdant Rock Limited is a Bermuda‑based insurance company regulated by the Bermuda Monetary Authority as a Class 3B Insurer. The company currently holds a BBB+ Long‑Term Insurer Financial Strength Rating with a Stable Outlook from Fitch Ratings. It provides Basel and ICS-family Solvency regimes compliant, investment‑grade financial guarantees on private credit exposures in emerging markets, designed to qualify as eligible credit protection under Basel and major insurance solvency regimes for banks, insurers and institutional investors globally. The company focuses on private liabilities and does not cover sovereigns, municipalities or provinces. Its remit covers bonds and loans issued by emerging market corporations and banks, structured financings, asset-backed (ABS) and mortgage-backed (MBS) exposures in securities or loan format, and project finance.

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 – Marking its third consecutive appearance at the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), CPA Australia co-hosted a high-profile forum on international trade with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) and the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) at Beijing’s Shougang Park.

Under the theme “Borderless Trade in Services, Connecting the Global Markets: Professional Services Empowering Chinese Enterprises’ Going Global”, the forum brought together business leaders, professional services representatives and industry experts for discussion.

The forum deepened and expanded the collaboration launched at CIFTIS 2025 between CPA Australia and ten leading accounting firms to support Chinese enterprises in their global expansion and talent development. It examined the changing landscape and emerging needs of businesses expanding overseas, while drawing on the collective expertise of the professional services sector to help Chinese enterprises pursue high-quality global expansion and sustainable growth.

Dr Josh Heniro FCPA (Aust.), Head of International Growth, Global Member Experience at CPA Australia, said in his opening address: “Chinese enterprises have entered a new stage of global expansion, where success is no longer measured only by profits, but also by their ability to build and sustain long-term trust in international markets. Professional services are key to building this trust in areas such as cross-border compliance, tax governance and sustainability disclosure. This reflects the growing role of trade in services in global value chains.”

“As Chinese companies continue to expand globally, demand is rising for professional capabilities in international standards and global operations.

“As a leading professional accounting body, CPA Australia is committed to developing accounting and finance professionals with a global outlook, strong technical expertise and business acumen. Through our global network and professional resources, we also support businesses to strengthen governance and enhance their international competitiveness.

“CPA Australia hopes this forum will bring together cross-sector expertise and explore new ways for professional services to support businesses in their global growth.”

CPA Australia and UIBE’s Business School signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the forum, marking a new step in strengthening collaboration in education and professional development.

The partnership will focus on brand building, local engagement, teaching and research collaboration, and ecosystem development. Both parties will promote the exchange of global industry expertise through regular engagement and resource sharing.

The collaboration aims to build an ecosystem that supports the development of future-ready accounting and finance talent with strong professional expertise and a global outlook. It will also strengthen local capabilities to support the high-level opening-up of trade in services.

The roundtable was moderated by Professor Hongtao Zheng CPA (Aust.), doctoral supervisor and director of the Centre for Sustainability and Accounting Research at the Beijing National Accounting Institute (BNAI). Representatives from leading accounting firms, including EY China, KPMG China, BDO, Deloitte China, Baker Tilly and Grant Thornton, shared insights on the theme “Industry consensus, practical challenges and recommendations for sustainability disclosure and assurance”.

The discussion built on a roundtable hosted by CPA Australia in July on the same topic. Drawing on that meeting, the Consensus Initiative on Sustainability Disclosure and Assurance highlighted that the focus on sustainability disclosure and assurance is shifting from institutional development to capability building.

Stronger requirements alone will not improve information quality. Businesses also need robust corporate governance, data infrastructure, internal controls and professional capabilities. Reliable, accurate and complete information is essential to credible sustainability disclosures.

With 140 years of professional excellence, CPA Australia places people and professional expertise at the centre of its work and is committed to cultivating business leaders with global vision and professional insight.

Looking ahead, CPA Australia will continue to strengthen the capabilities of accounting and finance professionals by leveraging its global network, connecting the profession and deepening collaboration between the profession and academia. Through these efforts, CPA Australia will support the high-level opening-up of trade in services and help Chinese companies pursue sustainable global growth.

Hashtag: #CPAAustralia #CIFTIS #ProfessionalServices

https://www.cpaaustralia.com.au/

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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the world’s largest professional accounting bodies. Founded in 1886, it has grown to over 176,000 members across more than 100 countries and regions, with more than 24,000 members in Greater China. CPA Australia is committed to upholding the highest standards in the accounting profession and serving the public interest. In China, CPA Australia has long maintained close and productive partnerships with government agencies, enterprises and professional accounting bodies, and is widely recognised for its contributions. It is dedicated to cultivating business leaders with a global perspective. Visit corporate website for more information cpaaustralia.com.au.

Accounting body supports mutually beneficial China-Australia development

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 – As an important prelude to a series of economic and trade exchanges associated with Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2026, CPA Australia participated in the China (Shenzhen) – Australia Economic and Trade Exchange Conference G’Day GBA held in Qianhai, Shenzhen.

The event was jointly organised by the Qianhai Authority, the Australian Consulate-General in Guangzhou and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), with CPA Australia serving as a supporting organisation.

Strengthening Engagement in the Greater Bay Area and Promoting International Talent Exchange through Qianhai

“Openness, Innovation and Collaboration” have been identified as three priorities for APEC 2026 in China and represent key drivers of economic development across the Asia-Pacific region.

G’Day GBA provides a timely platform for deepening China-Australia economic cooperation while strengthening the GBA’s connections with global professional networks.

During the opening ceremony, witnessed by Ms Maree Ringland, Consul-General of Australia in Guangzhou, and Mr Dominic Trindade, General Manager of Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan / Minister (Commercial), Australian Trade and Investment Commission / Australian Embassy Commercial Section, CPA Australia and the Qianhai International Cooperation Center formalised their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC).

The partnership will focus on enhancing the accounting and finance profession, supporting digital transformation, and promoting alignment with international standards. It will also support Qianhai’s development as a hub for professional services in the GBA.

CPA Australia’s President and Chairman of the Board, Professor Dale Pinto FCPA (Aust.) said: “Qianhai is playing an increasingly important role in strengthening international business connections and supporting innovation across the Greater Bay Area. Through our cooperation with the Qianhai International Cooperation Centre, CPA Australia looks forward to advancing the profession, promoting knowledge sharing and talent exchange, and fostering closer ties between Australia and China.”

Supporting Chinese Enterprises Going Global and Expanding Opportunities for Economic and Trade Cooperation

At the Invest in Australia Seminar, Professor Pinto delivered a keynote address on the international expansion trends of Chinese enterprises and emerging opportunities for China-Australia cooperation.

He highlighted the strong foundations of the Australia-China economic relationship and the growing opportunities in services, the digital economy and knowledge-based industries.

Professor Pinto referenced findings from CPA Australia’s joint research Chinese Enterprises Going Global: Navigating the Next Phase of Global Growth, which showed that 70 per cent of surveyed Chinese businesses have already expanded overseas, with 28 per cent generating more than 20 per cent of their revenue from international markets. Looking ahead, 67 per cent are planning to enter new markets or deepen their presence in existing overseas markets over the next one to three years.

He emphasised the important role the accounting profession plays in facilitating international trade and investment, particularly in helping businesses navigate increasingly complex cross-border tax, regulatory and compliance requirements. As Chinese enterprises accelerate their globalisation efforts, demand for high-quality accounting, taxation, compliance and advisory services continues to grow.

Professor Pinto also highlighted the opportunities that emerging technologies present for collaboration between small businesses in the two countries.

“CPA Australia’s Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey shows that small businesses in the Chinese mainland lead many surveyed markets in digital transformation, e-commerce adoption and the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Australia is home to more than 2.7 million small businesses, yet their level of digital adoption remains behind other markets. Greater collaboration between businesses in Australia and China can help improve the productivity and competitiveness of Australian small businesses.”

Building Bridges for Sustainable Bilateral Cooperation

During the event, Professor Pinto also joined H E Mr Scott Dewar, Australian Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, and other representatives at the opening ceremony of the G’Day GBA Australian Marketplace, engaging with businesses and members of the public to further promote people-to-people, cultural and economic exchanges between Australia and China.

Open cooperation has long been a defining feature of the Australia-China economic and trade relationship.

Professor Pinto said: “CPA Australia is committed to embracing the opportunities presented by APEC 2026 in China. Through ‘openness’, we can deepen connectivity; through ‘innovation’, we can drive industry advancement; and through ‘collaboration’, we can achieve mutual success.

As one of the world’s leading professional accounting bodies, CPA Australia remains committed to supporting Australia-China economic engagement through professional excellence.”

Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

https://www.cpaaustralia.com.au/

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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the world’s largest professional accounting bodies. Founded in 1886, it has grown to over 176,000 members across more than 100 countries and regions, with more than 24,000 members in Greater China. CPA Australia is committed to upholding the highest standards in the accounting profession and serving the public interest. In China, CPA Australia has long maintained close and productive partnerships with government agencies, enterprises and professional accounting bodies, and is widely recognised for its contributions. It is dedicated to cultivating business leaders with a global perspective. Visit corporate website for more information cpaaustralia.com.au.

Reinforcing 50 Years of Commitment to District Transformation

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 – Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 00101) (the “Company” or “Hang Lung”) held an opening ceremony today to celebrate the launch of the Amoy Footbridge, a landmark community infrastructure project supporting the continued development of Kowloon Bay. Fully funded, constructed and operated by Hang Lung, the footbridge provides a seamless, covered and barrier-free pedestrian link with round-the-clock access between Amoy Plaza, the East Kowloon Cultural Centre and Kowloon Bay MTR Station, significantly enhancing pedestrian accessibility, convenience, and integration within the Kowloon Bay district.

The opening ceremony was officiated by the Honourable Mr. C.Y. Leung, GBM, GBS, JP, Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung. They were joined by Mr. Weber Lo, Chief Executive Officer; Mr. Leo Tsoi, Chief Executive Officer Designate; and Mr. Kenneth Chiu, Chief Financial Officer, all of Hang Lung.

Hang Lung’s relationship with Kowloon Bay dates back to 1976, when it jointly developed Telford Gardens with the Mass Transit Railway (“MTR”) Corporation and Hopewell Holdings. Completed in 1980, Telford Gardens was Hong Kong’s first MTR-integrated residential development, built at a time when Kowloon Bay was still largely an industrial district. Amoy Gardens and Amoy Plaza followed in 1981, contributing to the area’s gradual transformation into a vibrant residential and commercial neighborhood. In 2024, THE APERTURE was completed as the Company’s newest addition to the precinct.

Conceived in support of the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Energizing Kowloon East initiative first outlined in the 2011 Policy Address, the Amoy Footbridge represents one of the pioneering examples of public-private collaboration to improve district-level connectivity. With the inauguration of the Footbridge, district-level mobility and integration have been further strengthened, reflecting Hang Lung’s confidence in the long-term development of Kowloon East as a dynamic hub for business, culture and community.

Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung Properties, said, “For 50 years, Hang Lung has grown alongside Kowloon Bay, standing with the local residents through times of both challenge and recovery. During the 2003 SARS outbreak, our frontline colleagues provided steadfast support to local residents, and in its aftermath, we launched the pioneering consumption voucher initiative to help revitalize the area. These efforts reflect our belief that business development and community well-being go hand in hand. As Hang Lung celebrates its 66th anniversary, we are proud to dedicate the Amoy Footbridge to Kowloon Bay as a gesture of appreciation to the neighborhoods that have been part of our journey, reaffirming our commitment to creating compelling spaces that enrich lives.”

Mr. Mikael Jaeraas, Senior Director – Retail and Hong Kong Business Operation of Hang Lung Properties, said, “The Amoy Footbridge is expected to improve connectivity for the community by providing a weather-proof and traffic-safe passage to Amoy Plaza, enhancing accessibility and convenience for residents, visitors, professionals and students. The increased pedestrian flow is expected to strengthen connections to the second floor of the mall, creating opportunities to refresh the tenant mix with popular lifestyle and dining brands that better reflect evolving customer journeys and needs. The footbridge is also fitted with solar panels, reflecting our long-term commitment to sustainable development.”

Hashtag: #HangLung

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

About Hang Lung Properties

Hong Kong’s role as a springboard for global innovators to grasp Greater Bay Area opportunities.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 — A Europe-wide I&T hackathon co-organised by Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) and the EuroTech Federation gave winning I&T talent in Europe a first-hand look at opportunities across the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), positioning Hong Kong as a gateway to regional collaboration. The hackathon attracted about 1,200 applicants from over 25 countries, with about 250 advanced to the final round. 90 per cent of finalists expressed stronger interest in Hong Kong and GBA Mainland citiesafter taking part. About 20 winning talent visited Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Guangzhou to meet investors, incubators, research institutes and industry leaders.

First-hand insights into the GBA’s I&T opportunities

The delegation toured Cyberport, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong–Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, and Northern Metropolis to gain an in-depth understanding of Hong Kong’s I&T ecosystem and development opportunities, and support measures for talent and enterprise incubation.

In Qianhai of Shenzhen and Nansha of Guangzhou, delegates met local I&T organisations and enterprises to explore industrial applications in AI, robotics, smart transport and biotechnology, showcasing how Hong Kong can help overseas innovators connect with GBA opportunities and turn thoughts into action.

“What impresses us most is how vibrant and interconnected the tech ecosystem is. Within days, we met incubators, industry leaders and potential partners, giving us a clearer and more comprehensive view of how to turn thoughts into action.” — Cem Araz, heal.health / Germany

Building long-term connections

The programme is designed to sustain engagement beyond the competition.

“We want the global innovators not simply to visit Hong Kong and GBA, but to build their future here,” said Mr Chris Sun, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare of the HKSAR Government. “The programme demonstrates Hong Kong’s role as an international I&T centre and an international hub for high-calibre talent,and connects global talent with I&T opportunities in GBA, thereby injecting new impetus into I&T development in GBA.”

Mr Felix Chan, the Director of HKTE, said that the visit calls for continued engagement and support for talent seeking career advancement, entrepreneurial opportunities and settlement in the city.

Building on these engagements, Hong Kong provides international innovators with access to a global business environment, effective fund-raising platform, renowned research institutes and transparent talent admission pathways, while linking them to immense markets, diversified partners and strong growth prospects across GBA and the wider Chinese Mainland.

Hashtag: #HongKongTalentEngage

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

About Hong Kong Talent Engage

HKTE, an office under the Labour and Welfare Bureau of the HKSAR Government, promotes Hong Kong’s opportunities and talent attraction initiatives worldwide, and offers comprehensive support to help incoming talent and their families settle in Hong Kong for long‑term development.

PARIS, FRANCE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 – Curated by the National Taiwan Craft Research and Development Institute (NTCRI) under Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture, TAIWAN CRAFTS & DESIGN returns to Maison&Objet Paris 2026, presenting seven Taiwanese brands: KIMU, Lumamiling, MOTOR design, Pan Pan Hua, TOMO, UMAMI, and WÈI CRAFT.

Rooted in craft, the showcase explores how Taiwan’s materials, techniques, cultural heritage, and contemporary design can respond to modern lifestyles and international markets. Working across wood, leather, ceramics, paper mulberry bark fibre, mixed media, lighting, and furniture, the seven brands reveal a craft culture that is culturally grounded, adaptable, and forward-looking.

KIMU reinterprets East Asian culture through its concept of “The New Old,” transforming familiar memories and aesthetics into contemporary objects.

Based in southern Taiwan, Lumamiling works with Indigenous barkcloth traditions and paper mulberry fibre, translating ancient techniques into lighting, furniture, and objects relevant to sustainability and contemporary living.

MOTOR design, guided by “An Eastern Soul in a Western Form,” combines mixed materials, cultural perspectives, and advanced manufacturing, with all design and production based in Taiwan.

Inspired by Taiwan’s mosaic tiles and architectural heritage, Pan Pan Hua develops handcrafted ceramic tiles for objects, interiors, architecture, and bespoke spatial applications.

TOMO celebrates the warmth and individuality of wood through close attention to grain, proportion, construction, and the tactile qualities of handcraft.

Furniture brand UMAMI balances materials, proportions, function, and detail like ingredients in cooking, creating adaptable furniture for residential, commercial, and public spaces.

Working primarily with leather, WÈI CRAFT explores material, structure, and storytelling through handcrafted objects designed to evolve beautifully through time and use.

Through Maison&Objet Paris, TAIWAN CRAFTS & DESIGN expands the meaning of “Made in Taiwan”—connecting craftsmanship, cultural depth, design innovation, and production expertise with international designers, architects, buyers, retailers, galleries, and creative professionals.

From Taiwan to the world, the initiative aims not only to make Taiwanese craft visible, but to make it part of the way the world lives.

MAISON&OBJET Pulse
Paris · 10–14 September 2026
TAIWAN CRAFTS & DESIGN PAVILION · Hall 5A · Stand A91
Hashtag: #TaiwanCraftsDesign #NTCRI #MaisonObjet

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

Reinforcing Commitment to Africa’s SME Trade

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 – XTransfer, the world’s leading B2B cross-border trade payment platform, reinforced its commitment to serving SMEs across Africa through its first participation in Seamless Africa 2026, held 8–9 September. The debut reflects XTransfer’s growing focus on enabling legitimate, secure cross-border trade that supports real-economy supply chains across the continent.

“Our debut at Seamless Africa reflects a clear focus: working more closely with African financial institutions to better serve SME trade,” said Ray Ren, UK CEO at XTransfer. “By joining XTransfer’s X-Net network, banks and payment partners can access services such as Pay to China, Pay to Global, and Local-Currency Collection, capabilities that help them support SME clients they were previously unable to serve effectively. Together, we can reduce cross-border payment friction, strengthen compliant trade flows, and enable more SMEs to participate confidently in Africa’s real-economy supply chains.”

XTransfer’s participation comes as it continues to expand its footprint across Africa, helping SMEs engaged in international trade access a more unified payment experience. In many markets, SMEs still face friction when making and receiving trade payments, including complex processes and delays that can strain cash flow and disrupt supply chains. Where reliable options are limited, some businesses may feel pressured to rely on informal channels, creating avoidable compliance and transparency risks for the wider ecosystem.

To address these challenges, XTransfer works with international and local banks and financial institutions to strengthen payment infrastructure and facilitate compliant trade payments. In Africa, XTransfer partners with Flutterwave, a leading payments technology company, to support importers in Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa to pay for goods conveniently in local currency, while helping Asian exporters receive reliable settlement, supporting smoother trade flows across key Africa–Asia corridors.

XTransfer’s Seamless Africa debut also follows broader momentum across the Middle East and Africa. In September 2026, XTransfer announced it had secured in-principle approval for a Retail Payment Services Licence from the Central Bank of the UAE. Subject to completing pre-issuance conditions, the licence would enable XTransfer to expand regulated services in the UAE and support businesses engaged in international trade with compliant, secure, and efficient payment solutions, strengthening connectivity across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Hashtag: #XTransfer #SeamlessAfrica #Crossborder #Payment #SMEs #EmgergingMarkets

https://www.xtransfer.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtransfer.cn

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The Spanish skincare house reinforces its commitment to the hospitality industry, with plans to double Hotel & Spa economic impact to €102 million by 2030

BARCELONA, SPAIN – Comunicae – 14 September 2026 – Natura Bissé, the Spanish luxury skincare brand internationally recognized for its high-performance formulas and spa experiences, has renewed its role for a second consecutive year as the Official Spa Brand of The World’s 50 Best Hotels, the global authority celebrating excellence in luxury hospitality, which will hold its annual awards ceremony this week in Paris.

The renewed partnership further strengthens Natura Bissé’s presence within some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and reinforces the brand’s long-term commitment to luxury hospitality at a time of unprecedented growth in high-end travel and wellness tourism.

As part of this strategy, Natura Bissé plans to double its investment in the Hotel & Spa channel over the next five years, increasing the business from €47 million in 2025 to €102 million by 2030. The objective is to deepen strategic partnerships with leading hotel groups while continuing to elevate the wellness experiences offered to guests around the world.

“Today, hospitality is one of the driving forces behind the new definition of luxury, where wellness has become essential. Our partnership with The World’s 50 Best Hotels reflects our long-term vision: to work alongside the finest hotels in creating experiences that deliver lasting value.” Verónica Fisas, CEO of Natura Bissé.

Today, Natura Bissé partners with more than 400 luxury properties across nearly 60 countries, including some of the world’s most iconic hospitality brands such as The Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, Rosewood, Belmond, St. Regis, Fairmont and Grand Hyatt.

Across the hospitality landscape, Natura Bissé offers a comprehensive wellness ecosystem—from its signature spa treatments, which have earned the brand the title of World’s Best Spa Brand (2018–2021, 2025), to its purpose-driven hotel amenities, developed in partnership with La Bottega in support of the Ricardo Fisas Natura Bissé Foundation.

“We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Natura Bissé. The world’s best hotels are constantly finding new ways to create memorable guest experiences, and wellness is an increasingly important part of that. Natura Bissé’s expertise and longstanding relationships with many of the world’s leading hotels make them a fantastic partner.” Lorraine Keogh, 50 Best Managing Director of Commercial.

Hashtag: #NaturaBissé

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