TRST01, a sustainable tech company that helps businesses meet global sustainability rules while making their supply chains more transparent, trustworthy, and ethical, announces a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreement with the Rubber Board of India to develop and implement a centralised compliance solution for the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Through this strategic partnership, TRST01 becomes the first private entity in the world to enter into an MoU with a public entity for a one-stop compliance solution, setting a new standard in public-private partnerships.
The MoU underscores the trust and confidence that the Rubber Board of India has in TRST01 as a key player in the sustainable technology space. While other entites have entered into contract-based agreements, this MoU represents a deeper, more integrated collaboration that is poised to revolutionise compliance processes for the Indian rubber industry.
TRST01 and the Rubber Board of India will collaborate on geo-mapping rubber-growing land plots to ensure deforestation-free sourcing and responsible practices. This partnership will also develop a Centralized Database to enhance traceability, risk assessment, and compliance with European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR) in the rubber industry, with TRST01 as the technology partner. Ultimately, the MoU will help strengthen India’s regulatory framework and position India as a global leader in sustainable rubber production.
Speaking on the strategic agreement with TRST01, Mr. M. Vasanthagesan IRS, CEO and Executive Director of The Rubber Board, said, “This collaboration with TRST01 is a testament to our dedication to supporting the rubber sector. The initiatives outlined in this MoU will facilitate the exporters to comply with EUDR and make Indian rubber growers globally competitive and get wider opportunities for their produce.”
“This joint venture is a testament to our commitment to driving sustainability and compliance in the rubber industry,” remarked Prabir Mishra, CEO and founder of TRST01. “It is a great honour to partner with the Rubber Board of India as this initiative can serve as a model for other industries and regions.
For TRST01, the MoU will demonstrate how public-private partnerships can drive innovation in sustainability. The collaboration represents a shared vision for a sustainable future. It will significantly benefit Indian rubber producers, highlighting how TRST01 can help producers achieve global compliance standards in sustainability.
About TRST01
TRST01 provides cutting-edge technology solutions that ensure supply chain traceability, accurate ESG reporting, digital measurement of sustainability impacts, and the secure management of carbon credits. TRST01 stands out for its simplicity, adaptability, and focus on creating tangible impacts on sustainability, making it accessible and effective for many users, from smallholder farmers to multinational corporations. It is also at the forefront of the regenerative finance movement, creating financial tools that promote practices that restore rather than deplete the earth’s resources.
TRST01’s approach fundamentally transforms how businesses view sustainability by creating a direct and tangible impact on People, Planet, and Profitability. Our innovations are not just about compliance; they make a sustainable ecosystem where every participant benefits. Visit trst01.com to learn more.
About Rubber Board India
The Rubber Board of India, headquartered in Kottayam, Kerala, is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Established in 1947, it plays a pivotal role in the development of the rubber industry in India. The Board’s responsibilities encompass research, development, and extension activities related to natural rubber cultivation, production, and processing. It also regulates the marketing of rubber and ensures fair prices for both growers and consumers. Through its various initiatives, the Rubber Board strives to enhance the productivity and sustainability of the rubber industry in India, thereby contributing to the economic growth of the country.
DreamFolks, India’s largest airport services aggregator, is proud to announce its strategic expansion into the Southeast Asian market. This milestone marks a significant step in DreamFolks’ mission to redefine travel experiences on a global scale.
Over the past 12 years, DreamFolks has revolutionized the airport services industry in India by offering a comprehensive suite of premium services through its proprietary technology platform. The company dominates the Indian domestic lounge access market for debit and credit card programs, boasting an impressive 90% market share and partnerships with most major banks and card networks in the country. The Company went public in September’22 with listings on Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE).DreamFolks’ success stems from its cutting-edge in-house technology, which empowers banks and card networks to significantly enhance their card value propositions. This technology helps boost sales, drives loyalty and optimizes cost for these financial institutions. This tech-driven approach has been key to DreamFolks’ success in India and will continue to fuel its expansion into other geographies.The company’s global footprint now extends to over 3000 touchpoints across more than 100 countries and 500+ cities, serving millions of travellers annually. This extensive network positions DreamFolks uniquely to offer unparalleled service to its clients and their customers in the new markets.Building on its success in the Indian market, DreamFolks is now poised to bring its innovative service aggregation model to the Southeast Asian market with services like airport and railway lounges, e-SIM: travel SIM cards, meet and assist services, airport transfers, golf privileges and more to their customers.As part of this expansion, DreamFolks has established a regional office in Singapore, demonstrating its commitment to the market. The company has also bolstered its leadership team by on-boarding, Adib Kangda, Senior Vice President – International Markets, a seasoned professional with extensive knowledge of the local market dynamics.Liberatha Kallat, Chairperson and Managing Director of DreamFolks, commented on the expansion and said, “Our expansion into Southeast Asia marks a significant milestone in DreamFolks’ journey. We’re not just entering new markets; we’re bringing our vision of seamless, technology-driven travel experiences to one of the world’s most dynamic regions. This area represents immense opportunities for growth and innovation in the travel sector. With our proven track record in India, we’re confident that our unique service aggregation model will resonate strongly with banks, card networks and enterprises across the region. By entering the Southeast Asian market, we will introduce market-first card innovations, and significantly save costs for our clients. Our focus is on delivering tangible benefits for our clients, ensuring they experience enhanced value and efficiency.”This expansion is expected to benefit both clients and travellers in the region. By offering its advanced technology solutions, DreamFolks aims to help banks, card networks and enterprises optimise their offerings, enhance customer loyalty, and streamline operations. For travellers, this means access to a broader range of premium services and a more seamless travel experience. This expansion not only marks a new chapter in DreamFolks’ journey but also promises to elevate the standards of travel services across the region.About DreamFolksDreamFolks is a leading travel & lifestyle services aggregator and provides an in-house technology platform that allows its clients such as Banks, Card Networks, Airlines, OTAs, and Enterprises to create custom offerings for their end consumers. DreamFolks today manages the lounge and other benefits for most of the top Banks in India and enjoys a market share of over 90% in the domestic lounge access market for India-issued debit and credit programs. The company went public in Sep ’22 with listings on both BSE and NSE and has a global footprint extending to 3,000+ touchpoints in 100+ countries, across the world.For more information, please visit our website (www.dreamfolks.com) or contact our media relations team.Contact Information: dreamfolks@adfactorspr.comNamrata Sharma – Namrata.sharma@adfactorspr.com
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) through the National Innovation Agency(Public Organization), or NIA, announced the success in organizing the largest Thai innovation and startup event in the country, STARTUP x INNOVATION THAILAND EXPO 2024 (SITE 2024). With the theme “Innovation for Growth and Sustainability”, the event aimed to accelerate the sustainability of Thailand’s innovative and entrepreneurial startups from every dimension.
This year, a diverse group of startups and innovators participated in the expo, the MHESI Power of Interdisciplinary Research for Sustainable Development of Thai Economy, or the MHESI Fair. The event attracted over 600,000 visitors and generated more than 500 million Baht.
Dr Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the NIA, revealed that “SITE 2024, the largest Thai Startup x Innovation Expo in the country, took place for the first time within the MHESI Fair, which several agencies under the supervision of the MHESI, were jointly showcasing the diverse potential of science, technology and innovation to drive Thailand into the future. This made the overall event this year more dynamic and vibrant, with over 600,000 attendees and generating income exceeding 500 million baht.”
For SITE 2024, NIA organized five highlight activities that acquired significant attention from visitors including: – Forums: Featuring seminars and workshops with leading speakers from both domestic and international backgrounds, addressing the question of creating innovative businesses. – International Hackathon: In collaboration with King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang and other partners, the hackathons focused on “Saving the World with AI.” comprising a total of 22 activities. – Business Matching: SITE 2024’s Business Matching sessions connected startups and entrepreneurs in business discussions with investors and large companies, totalling 34 pairs with seven-leading VC / CVC / corporations, including Beacon Venture Capital, Bangchak Initiative and Innovation Center, Y&Archer, True Incube, InnoSpace (Thailand), AIS the Startup, and ALLY Global Management. – Marketplace: Showcasing innovative products from over 300 startups and innovative enterprises. – Startup Thailand League 2024: National Championship Round, featured 14 teams. The winning team was “MedStream Innovations” from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, which was recognized for designing and producing organ-on-chip devices tailored to the needs of medical and pharmaceutical researchers. The first runner-up was team “Scamtify” from Thammasat University, for its platform to easily detect online scams with a single click. The second runner-up was team “DigiPeak” from Mae Fah Luang University, for its automated unmanned aerial vehicle system designed for precision agriculture.
The event also included the presentation of the Prime Minister Award 2024, which honors individuals and organizations for their contribution to promoting and supporting the development of the country’s startup ecosystem. A total of 12 awards were given, divided into two categories:
I. National Startups 2024: – Startup of the Year: SkillLane – Global Tech Startup of the Year: Buzzebee – Evangelist of the Year: Mr. Saran Sutantiwong – Investor of the Year: CU Enterprise – Best Brotherhood of the Year: AIS The Startup, Katalyst, KBank, LiVE Platform – Best Contributor in Human Capital Development: Chulalongkorn University
II. Innovation for Sustainability The winners are: Siam Commercial Bank, Kasikorn Bank, UOB Bank, and Thai Beverage Co., Ltd.
Additionally, the NIA signed agreements to establish collaborative innovation networks with 13 agencies, both domestic and international, including:
– Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) of Thailand – National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) – Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) – Leave a Nest Singapore, Pte. Ltd. – Techsauce Media Co., Ltd. – IMPACT Muang Thong Thani – The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) – Montgomery County, Maryland – The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) – Kasetsart University – Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences (CRAES) – Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME Bank)
These collaborations aim to strengthen the Thai innovation ecosystem across its various dimensions and create opportunities to expand the international market for startups and innovative entrepreneurs.
Those interested in learning more are welcome to register at https://www.mhesifair.com and like us on Facebook @ NIA: National Innovation Agency, Thailand.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), through the National Innovation Agency (Public Organization) or NIA, gathered to announce the recent success of the largest Thai innovation and startup expo in the country, STARTUP x INNOVATION THAILAND EXPO 2024 (SITE 2024). Under the theme “Innovation for Growth and Sustainability”, the expo aimed to accelerate the sustainability of Thai innovation businesses and startups in every dimension.
This year, a diverse group of startups and innovators gathered to participate in MHESI’s showcase of the immense potential of interdisciplinary studies to drive sustainable economic development in Thailand, or the MHESI Fair. The event attracted 600,000 visitors and generated more than 500 million Baht.
Dr Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the NIA, explained that “SITE 2024, the largest Thai Startup x Innovation Expo in the country, took place for the first time within the MHESI Fair, which was co-organized by several agencies under the supervision of the MHESI, showcasing the diverse potential of science, technology and innovation to drive Thailand into the future. Which made this year’s event more dynamic and vibrant, with over 600,000 attendees and generating income exceeding 500 million baht.”
For SITE 2024, NIA organized five highlighted activities that enjoyed significant attention from visitors, including: – Forums: Featuring seminars and workshops with leading speakers from both domestic and international backgrounds, addressing the question of creating innovative businesses. – International Hackathon: In collaboration with King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang and other partners, the hackathons focused on “Saving the World with AI.” – Business Matching: A total of 22 Business Matching activities connected startups and entrepreneurs in business discussions with investors and large companies, totalling 34 pairs. Seven leading VC / CVC / Corporates participated, including Beacon Venture Capital, Bangchak Initiative and Innovation Center, Y&Archer, True Incube, InnoSpace (Thailand), AIS The Startup, and ALLY Global Management. – Marketplace: Showcasing innovative products from over 300 startups and innovative enterprises.
– Startup Thailand League 2024: National Championship Round, featured 14 teams. The winning team was “MedStream Innovations” from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, which was recognized for designing and producing organ-on-chip devices tailored to the needs of medical and pharmaceutical researchers. The first runner-up was team “Scamtify” from Thammasat University, for its platform to easily detect online scams with a single click. The second runner-up was team “DigiPeak” from Mae Fah Luang University, for its automated unmanned aerial vehicle system designed for precision agriculture.
The event also included the presentation of the Prime Minister Award 2024, which honors individuals and organizations for their contribution to promoting and supporting the development of the country’s startup ecosystem. A total of 12 awards were given, divided into two categories:
I. National Startups 2024: – Startup of the Year: SkillLane – Global Tech Startup of the Year: Buzzebee – Evangelist of the Year: Mr. Saran Sutantiwong – Investor of the Year: CU Enterprise – Best Brotherhood of the Year: AIS The Startup, Katalyst, KBank, LiVE Platform – Best Contributor in Human Capital Development: Chulalongkorn University
II. Innovation for Sustainability The winners were Siam Commercial Bank, Kasikorn Bank, UOB Bank, and Thai Beverage Pcl
Additionally, the NIA signed agreements to establish collaborative innovation networks with 13 agencies, both domestic and international, including:
– Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) of Thailand – National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) – Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) – Liveaness Singapore, Pte. Ltd. – Techsauce Media Co., Ltd. – IMPACT Muang Thong Thani – Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) – Montgomery County, Maryland – The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) – Kasetsart University – Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences (CRAES) – Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME Bank)
These collaborations jointly aim to strengthen the Thai innovation ecosystem across its various dimensions and create opportunities to expand the international market for startups and innovative entrepreneurs.
Those interested in learning more are welcome to register at https://www.mhesifair.com and like us on Facebook @ NIA: National Innovation Agency, Thailand.
Please contact: Dujrapee Chaovanapricha The National Innovation Agency (NIA) Email: dujrapee.c@nia.or.th
foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME), one of the leading talent platform, today published the foundit Insights Tracker (fit) for June 2024. According to the Singapore fit report, the Legal sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, with a 24% year-on-year increase in hiring activity and a 2% month-on-month rise in June 2024.
The tracker reveals an overall year-on-year (YoY) decline of 9% in hiring activity across sectors, as the index dropped from 122 in June 2023 to 111 in June 2024. However, a month-on-month (MoM) analysis indicates a notable 2% surge, with an index of 109 recorded in May 2024. This uptick suggests that businesses are resuming hiring activities post-economic adjustments, with the legal sector leading the way.
Commenting on Singapore’s job trends for June 2024, Sekhar Garisa, CEO, foundit, said, “The impressive growth in demand for legal professionals, both annually and month-on-month, highlights the importance of legal expertise in today’s complex business environment. While the overall job market continues to navigate through economic adjustments, the Legal sector’s performance is a bright spot, indicating areas of opportunity and growth. This trend, coupled with the overall month-on-month increase in hiring activity, suggests a gradual recovery and adaptation of the job market to new economic realities. In this evolving landscape, continuous adaptation, reskilling, and embracing flexible work models will be crucial for both employers and job seekers.”
IT, Telecom, and Hospitality sectors lead MoM Industry growth indicating positive economic trends
The IT, Telecom/ISP, and BPO/ITES industry, along with the Hospitality sector, showed positive trends with a 3% MoM growth each in June 2024. This growth is primarily driven by businesses increasingly integrating AI and Machine Learning into their operations to enhance automation, efficiency, and insights, as well as a gradual recovery in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The BFSI sector also experienced a 2% increase in hiring demand over the last month, with heightened interest in roles such as Compliance Officers, Risk Managers, and Legal Experts. Other sectors showing positive growth include Advertising, Market Research, Public Relations, Media, and Entertainment (2%), Retail/Trade and Logistics (2%), and Healthcare (2%).
Challenges persist in several sectors with declining or stagnant hiring trends
While some sectors showed growth, others faced challenges in the job market. The Import/Export industry recorded a substantial deceleration in hiring activity, with a 3% MoM decrease, likely due to ongoing global trade uncertainties and supply chain disruptions.
The Shipping/Marine and Consumer Goods/FMCG sectors also experienced a slight decline of 1% each, reflecting cautious consumer spending and continued logistics challenges.
Several sectors showed no change in their hiring activities. The Government/PSU/Defence, Education, and Oil and Gas sectors showed no change (0% MoM growth) in their hiring patterns, indicating a cautious approach in these industries.
The Production/Manufacturing, Automotive, and Ancillary sector saw only a marginal rise (+1%), suggesting a slow recovery in these traditional industries.
Varied trends across functional roles reflect changing market dynamics
Legal professionals continued to witness significant demand in June 2024, with the highest YoY growth of 24% and a 2% MoM increase. This trend underscores the growing importance of legal expertise across various industries. This surge in demand for legal professionals could be attributed to the increasing need for regulatory compliance, risk management, and legal expertise across industries in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
Sales & Business Development and Hospitality & Travel roles also showed positive growth, each recording a 1% MoM increase. This growth reflects the gradual recovery of the tourism and hospitality sectors, as well as businesses focusing on expanding their market presence.
However, HR & Admin roles saw a marginal dip of 1% on a month-on-month basis while registering a 12% drop annually. This trend could be attributed to the increasing adoption of AI tools in recruitment and other HR functions.
Most other monitored functions, including Finance & Accounts, Software, Hardware, Telecom, Marketing & Communications, Engineering/Production, Customer Service, Purchase/Logistics/Supply Chain, and Healthcare roles, remained stable with no change in hiring activity in June 2024.
The foundit Insights Tracker is a comprehensive monthly analysis of online job posting activity conducted by foundit. Based on a real-time review of millions of employer job opportunities culled from a large, representative selection of online career outlets, the foundit Insights Tracker (FIT) presents a snapshot of employer online recruitment activity nationwide.
Period for the report
The period considered for the foundit Insights Tracker (fit) data is June 2023 vs June 2024.
About foundit – APAC & Middle East
foundit, formerly Monster (APAC & ME) is a leading talent platform offering comprehensive employment solutions to recruiters and job seekers across APAC & ME. In addition to a powerful AI-powered job search, foundit offers e-learning, assessments, and services related to resume creation, interview preparation, and professional networking. Since its inception, the company has assisted over 100 million job seekers across 18 countries in upskilling and connecting them with the right job opportunities. foundit is now also the Official Talent Partner of the Badminton World Federation across 20 key world tour events.
Over the last two decades, the company has been a leader in the world of recruitment solutions and has recently launched a cutting-edge solution to give recruiters access to passive candidates in addition to active ones. With the use of advanced technology, foundit is seeking to efficiently bridge the talent gap across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies.
Today, foundit is committed to enabling and connecting the right talent with the right opportunities by harnessing the power of deep tech to sharpen hyper-personalised job searches and offer precision hiring.
– A delegation led by Mr John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, visited Vietnam as part of broader ASEAN mission. – Hong Kong aims to help Vietnamese businesses leverage its dynamic start-up ecosystem and superconnector role in new sectors, such as innovation and technology (I&T), sustainability and green finance – 30 MoUs were signed to strengthen bilateral ties
A delegation, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council(HKTDC) and led by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive Mr John Lee, successfully concluded a week-long ASEAN mission to Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.
Over 50 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed, signalling closer bilateral cooperation based on a shared vision of prosperity and growth in Asia.
Over the past week, the delegation comprising some 30 leaders of international, Mainland Chinese and Hong Kong enterprises and conglomerates operating in finance and insurance, I&T, professional services, infrastructure, transport and logistics, energy and hospitality, strengthened ties, expanded networks and discussed collaboration opportunities in Hong Kong, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Concluding the ASEAN trip on 2 Aug, Mr Lee said: “During our six-day trip, we visited four cities across the three countries and participated in some 30 events. These included meetings with senior leaders and officials, visits to enterprises and Belt and Road projects, exchanges with the business communities in the four cities, and engaging in activities to promote people-to-people connections.”
Mr Lee added that members of the delegation will share their insights and experiences of this visit through their extensive networks.
Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, said the focus of the mission is to strengthen ties between Hong Kong and ASEAN, our second-largest trading partner, by introducing the latest business opportunities offered by Hong Kong.
“In recent years, Hong Kong has been making tremendous advances in new sectors, such as innovation and sustainability. Our advances in greentech, smart manufacturing and supply chain management, reinforced by our world-class R&D and IP infrastructure and robust government support, provide a lot of opportunities for us to collaborate with ASEAN businesses,” he pointed out, adding 55 MoUs signed during the trip paves the way for deeper collaboration in the future.
“We would like to express our appreciation to the Hong Kong SAR Government and all business delegates for their support. Looking ahead, the HKTDC will continue to help businesses connect with opportunities and build a global ecosystem through our worldwide network of 50 offices,” Dr Lam added.
During the visit to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, 30 MoUs were signed by members of the delegation, Vietnamese government bodies and Vietnamese companies in the areas of trade and investment promotion, finance, fintech, transport and logistics and education.
Delegates also met with executives and key members of local chambers of commerce, including the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), and key corporations, including VinGroup and Tessellation Binh Duong Co Ltd., to explore business opportunities.
To foster collaboration opportunities via the Hong Kong platform, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore (HKETO Singapore) and HKTDC co-organised a business luncheon in Vietnam, which was attended by some 220 business leaders and key officials.
During the visit, 30 MoUs were signed by the following members of the delegation, Vietnamese government bodies and Vietnamese companies to deepen cooperation across diverse areas: 1.Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of Hong Kong, China, and Ministry of Finance of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam; 2.Invest Hong Kong and the Foreign Investment Agency (FIA), Ministry of Planning and Investment of the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam; 3.Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI); 4.Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (Vietrade); 5.Airport Authority Hong Kong and Vietnam Airlines JSC; 6.Airport Authority and Airport Corporation of Vietnam; 7.Airport Authority Hong Kong and Sovico Group; 8.Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce and Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI); 9.Invest Hong Kong and Hong Kong Business Association in Vietnam; 10.Hong Kong Tourism Board and Traveloka; 11.Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited and China Business Association Ho Chi Minh City Branch;China Business Association Guangdong Enterprises Association in Vietnam; Hong Kong Business Association Vietnam; 12.CCB International Capital Limited and VinaCapital Holdings Ltd; 13.Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI) and Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park J.V. Co., Ltd. (VSIP); 14.FWD Group and Junior Achievement Vietnam; 15.HKU Business School and Ho Chi Minh University of Banking (HUB); 16.HKU Business School and University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH); 17.Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Viet Nam National University – Ho Chi Minh City; 18.Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh High School for the Gifted; 19.SF Supply Chain and NTQ; 20.Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited and Computime Group Limited; 21.Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited and Kingboard Holdings Limited; 22.Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited and Stavian Group Joint Stock Company; 23.Sunwah Group (Hong Kong) and Becamex IDC Corp; 24.Tekcent Limited and Locamos Technology; 25.Tekcent Limited and Quickom; 26.The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, Hong Kong Office and 315 Medical Joint Stock Company; 27.The Vietnam Association HK (VAHK) and Hong Kong Business Association Vietnam (HKBAV); 28.The Vietnam Association HK (VAHK) and Viet Nam Young Entrepreneur’s Association (VNYEA); 29.VRCN Limited and Hong Kong Business Association Vietnam; and 30.VRCN Limited and Quickom
Earlier during the trip, 25 more MoUs were signed, including 12 signed in Laos: 31.Customs and Excise Department of Hong Kong, China and the Customs Department of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic; 32.Invest Hong Kong and Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry; 33.Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Lao Chinese Chamber of Commerce (LCCC); 34.Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI); 35.Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce; 36.CCB International (Holdings) Limited and Phongsavanh Group Co., Ltd; 37.CLP SEA Infrastructure Limited and CGN Energy Technology (Laos) Co., Ltd and Krittaphong Group Co., Ltd; 38.Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI) and the Vientiane Capital Chamber of Commerce and Industry; 39.Goldford Group and Lao National Digital Technology Group Co., Ltd (LADT); 40.HashKey Capital and Lao National Digital Technology; 41.Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Vientiane Secondary School (VSS); and 42.Hong Kong Shippers’ Council (HKSC) and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry
And 13 signed in Cambodia: 43.Invest Hong Kong and the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC); 44.Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Council for The Development of Cambodia (CDC); 45.The Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong and Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation of Cambodia; 46.The Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong & Ministry of Commerce of Cambodia; 47.Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC); 48.The Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce; 49.The Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI) and the Hong Kong Business Association of Cambodia (HKBAC); 50.Airport Authority Hong Kong and Societe Concessionnaire de lAeroport; 51.FWD Group Holdings Limited and Department of Media and Communication, Royal University of Phnom Penh; 52.CCB International (Holdings) Limited and ACLEDA Bank Plc.; 53.CCB International (Holdings) Limited and Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone Co., Ltd.; 54.Cathay Pacific Airways Limited and Societe Concessionnaire de lAeroport; and 55.Hong Kong Airlines Limited and Cambodia Airways Co., Ltd.
With the BRI entering its second decade and amid greater regional cooperation facilitated by agreements, like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Hong Kong will continue to build on its role as superconnector, linking the wider China market with ASEAN and the world at large.
The HKSAR Government and HKTDC will host the Belt and Road Summit on 11-12 September in Hong Kong. At this annual signature conference, which brings together the leading voices from diverse sectors across Belt and Road markets and beyond, Vietnamese companies can seize countless collaboration opportunities.
The visit to three ASEAN member states – Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam – this week aimed to deepen economic and trade relations, enhance cultural exchange and explore collaboration opportunities between ASEAN and Hong Kong, building on the success of previous ASEAN missions to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia in 2023 and Thailand in 2022.
Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) addressed a business luncheon, co-organised by the HKETO Singapore and HKTDC, which deepened economic and cultural links between Hong Kong and Vietnam
Mr John Lee, Chief Executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) said Hong Kong will continue to fully leverage the advantages of one country, two systems to bring opportunities to Vietnam and other RCEP countries
Mr Phan Van Mai, Chairman of HCMC People’s Committee, addressed the luncheon
Some 220 business leaders and key officials attended a business luncheon in Vietnam co-organised by HKETO Singapore and HKTDC, during which MoUs were exchanged
The Hong Kong delegation visited Vingroup to learn about its latest developments in electric vehicles and sustainable finance
The delegation also visited Tessellation Binh Duong Co Ltd. to learn about its latest developments in sustainable garment manufacturing and supply chain integration
Dr Peter K N Lam (second left), Hong Kong Trade Development Council Chairman, expressed his delight of the mission’s success in strengthening ASEAN-Hong Kong ties. He hopes the delegates can bring these insights back to Hong Kong to build on the progress achieved during the mission and create more business opportunities
Media enquiries Vero Vietnam Yen Tran Tel.: (84) 932 492 396 Email: yen@vero-asean.com
HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department: Agnes Wat Tel.: (852) 2584 4554 Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org Sam Ho Tel.: (852) 2584 4569 Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org
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.
A strategic collaboration agreement was signed today between CheckMinistry, a leading SaaS background screening platform, and FilterBank, a prominent information agency. The purpose of the partnership is to enhance their respective background screening capabilities on a global scale.
This will allow CheckMinistry to enrich its product offering by using FilterBank’s deep local expertise and resources to carry out efficient screening processes. Conversely, FilterBank will rely on CheckMinistry’s automated screening, powered by RegTech and AI, to conduct thorough overseas background checks for its clients.“We are excited to partner with FilterBank, a company that shares our commitment to accuracy, speed, transparency, and customer satisfaction,” said James Hunsrao, CEO of CheckMinistry. “This will allow us to provide our clients with even more comprehensive and efficient background screening solutions, regardless of their geographic location. We are confident that this partnership will be mutually beneficial and create significant value for our customers.”Jun Omune, CEO of FilterBank, added, “We are delighted to join forces with CheckMinistry. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to provide reliable information and support our clients’ decision-making processes. By combining our strengths, we can offer our clients a truly exceptional background screening experience.”For both companies, this strategic alliance represents a significant milestone and underscores their strong commitment to providing top-quality background screening services to their clients. Leveraging their combined strengths and expertise, CheckMinistry and FilterBank are poised to become the preferred choice for organizations seeking comprehensive and reliable background screening solutions.About CheckMinistryCheckMinistry — an ISO 27001 certified SaaS background screening platform that streamlines 20+ background checks, assists HR professionals in identifying potential risks within their candidate pool and makes informed hiring decisions faster than ever.As a member of the PBSA, CheckMinistry stays at the forefront of industry trends while ensuring full compliance with FCRA and GDPR. The company’s cutting-edge technology and automation streamline the vetting process, delivering results in half the usual time. This efficiency empowers clients to establish a safer, more secure workforce for their organizations. With a core team that brings over 20 years of expertise in background screening and HR operations, CheckMinistry guarantees the precision and legality of its services, enabling employers to confidently build a trustworthy workforce anywhere in the world.To know more: checkministry.comAbout FilterBankFounded in 1986, FilterBank envisions a society where relationships are grounded in sincerity and decisions are guided by personal integrity rather than superficial criteria. The company is dedicated to creating a reliable judgment system that addresses organizational challenges and fosters transparent interactions. FilterBank’s services are centered on specialized corporate credit investigations for risk management, recruitment filtering for enhanced hiring support, and anti-social checks conducted with strict compliance to ensure organizations make informed decisions that uphold societal trust.To know more: filterbank.co.jpMedia contact:CheckMinistry Marketing Teammarketing@checkministry.com
With the recent release of the United Nations (UN) 2024 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report, CropLife Asia and its member companies are highlighting the increasingly critical role agricultural innovation and technology play in enabling and empowering regional farmers to produce the safe, nutritious and affordable food that drives food security in Asia.
According to the 2024 SOFI report, between 713 and 757 million people may have faced hunger globally in 2023 (or one out of 11 people). Meanwhile, Asia remains home to both the largest number of those facing hunger globally at 384.5 million as well as the most people experiencing moderate-to-severe food insecurity (1.18 billion) – up from 1.7 billion people the previous year[i]. The challenge of achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger (SDG2) remains daunting with 582 million people projected to be chronically undernourished by 2030[ii]. Furthermore, a healthy diet remains unaffordable for 2.83 billion people worldwide as highlighted in the SOFI report. The cost of a healthy diet has risen since 2017 globally, peaking at an average of 3.96 PPP dollars per person per day in 2022 which is a 11 percent increase compared to 2021[iii]. Compared to the global average, the cost of a healthy diet is the second highest in Asia at 4.20 PPP dollars.[iv]“The growing population here in Asia and around the world, climate change impacts and geopolitical conflicts have only exacerbated an already challenging food insecurity landscape,” said Dr. Siang Hee Tan, Executive Director, CropLife Asia. “With agricultural innovations and plant science technologies, it is possible for farmers to produce more nutritious food with fewer resources and less impact to the world around us. That helps our smallholder farmers, national economies and trade, and most crucially, our collective regional food security. More than ever, we need science-based regulatory systems around Asia to provide timely reviews of the latest agricultural innovations and technologies that can help our smallholder farmers at such a consequential time for our region.”Plant science technologies such as plant biotechnology, gene-editing and crop protection products play a key role in supporting crop productivity, ensuring a stable food supply, managing and protecting natural resources as well as driving national economies. For example, biotech crops have increased global food, feed and fibre production by nearly 1 billion tonnes from 1996 to 2020.[v] During the same period, insect resistant crop technology used in maize has increased yields by an average of 17.7 percent relative to conventional production systems. The livestock industry is heavily dependent on maize as animal feed, making it a critical component of the agricultural economy.Gene-editing techniques such as CRISPR-Cas can be used in agriculture to build tolerant traits that can respond better to heat, drought and flooding, improve photosynthesis to boost yields and redesign crops to serve as more nutritious and sustainable food sources.About CropLife AsiaCropLife Asia is a non-profit society and the regional organization of CropLife International, the voice of the global plant science industry. We advocate a safe, secure food supply, and our vision is food security enabled by innovative agriculture. CropLife Asia supports the work of 15 member associations across the continent and is led by six member companies and one associate member company at the forefront of crop protection, seeds and/or biotechnology research and development. For more information, visit us at www.croplifeasia.org. For more information please contact:Duke HippDirector, Public Affairs & Strategic Partnerships CropLife Asiaduke.hipp@croplifeasia.org[i] FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP and WHO. 2024. The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2024 – Financing to end hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/cd1254en[ii] FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP and WHO. 2024. The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2024 – Financing to end hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/cd1254en[iii] FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP and WHO. 2024. The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2024 – Financing to end hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/cd1254en[iv] FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP and WHO. 2024. The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2024 – Financing to end hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/cd1254en[v] Brookes G. (2022). Farm income and production impacts from the use of genetically modified (GM) crop technology 1996-2020. GM Crops & Food, 13(1), 171-195. https://doi.org/10.1080/21645698.2022.2105626
In today’s globalised economy, Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) play a crucial role in driving innovation and competitiveness in the workplace. A recent survey by foundit, a leading talent platform, highlights significant progress and exciting opportunities in D&I practices across Philippine organisations.
The survey unveils a promising landscape in the Philippines’ corporate environment, with a majority of respondents reporting that their organisations offer special benefits for LGBTQIA+ employees and have employee resource groups focused on diversity and inclusion. These findings point to the substantial strides Philippine workplaces have made in harnessing the proven benefits of diverse teams, such as enhanced innovation, improved decision-making, and stronger financial performance.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have become critical focus areas for organisations worldwide. DEI initiatives aim to create workplaces that reflect the broader society, ensure fair treatment and access to opportunities for all employees, and foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
As businesses increasingly recognise the benefits of diverse teams, understanding the current state of DEI practices is crucial.
The survey, conducted as part of foundit’s ongoing commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive work environments, highlights the alignment between organisational intentions and implemented actions regarding diversity initiatives in the Philippines.
While 50% of employees report that their organisations have diversity training programs in place, there’s still room for growth, as 35% of respondents are not at all familiar with the concept of diversity hiring. Encouragingly, 58% feel their organisation is responsive or highly responsive to feedback on diversity issues.
These findings suggest a strong commitment to diversity in principle and significant progress in implementation, with exciting opportunities to further enhance diversity initiatives.
Sekhar Garisa, CEO of foundit, commented on the findings: “The Philippines is demonstrating remarkable progress in creating inclusive workplaces. It is particularly encouraging to see that 67% of companies offer special benefits for LGBTQIA+ employees, showcasing a deep commitment to inclusivity. This positions the Philippines as a leader in the region for LGBTQIA+ workplace support.
The high awareness of employee resource groups and the prevalence of diversity training programs indicate that Philippine businesses are taking concrete steps towards fostering inclusive environments. As we move forward, there’s a fantastic opportunity to build on this foundation, particularly in areas such as diversity hiring awareness and expanding training programs. Organisations that continue to invest in these areas will not only create more inclusive workplaces but also unlock new levels of innovation and competitiveness in the global market.”
Key findings from the survey include:
LGBTQIA+ Support: 67% of respondents report that their workplace supports LGBTQIA+ employees with special benefits, including healthcare coverage, family and relationship benefits, mental health support, and training and education benefits.
Diversity Awareness and Definition: While 35% of respondents are not at all familiar with the concept of diversity hiring, among those familiar with the concept, 62% define workplace diversity comprehensively, including actively seeking diverse individuals, creating an inclusive environment, embracing a diversity mindset, and complying with anti-discrimination laws.
Organisational Commitment: 50% of respondents believe their workplace is highly or extremely committed to hiring a diverse team, while 24% perceive a moderate commitment, and 9% report no commitment at all.
Training Needs and Effectiveness: 50% of respondents state that their organisations have diversity training programs, with 46% having mandatory programs. In terms of effectiveness, 30% reported becoming fully aware from training, while 27% saw no increase in awareness.
Recruitment Practices: Respondents report that organisations are adopting various initiatives to ensure equal opportunities. These include conducting interviews in diversity-friendly spaces (18%), inviting applications from diverse communities (15%), consistent commitment to diversity hiring goals (14%), and regular reviews to update hiring processes to mitigate bias (14%).
Provisions for Applicants with Disabilities: Respondents state that organisations offer specific accommodations, such as accessible online application processes (17%), accessible interview venues (16%), and additional time allowances for assessments if needed (16%).
Work-Life Balance: 51% of respondents state that their organisations have policies in place to support work-life balance with flexible work hours and remote work options, particularly for women with caregiving responsibilities.
Employee Resource Groups: 62% of respondents are aware of employee resource groups focused on diversity and inclusion within their organisations, with 49% finding these groups highly or extremely valuable.
Peer Support and Networking: 42% of respondents state that their organisations frequently or always facilitate peer support and networking opportunities for diverse groups, 25% say they sometimes do so, and 14% report that their organisations rarely or never provide these opportunities.
Responsiveness to Feedback: 58% of respondents perceive that their organisations are responsive or highly responsive to feedback on diversity issues, highlighting a positive trend in organisational communication and action on diversity-related concerns.
“These findings showcase the Philippines as an emerging leader in corporate diversity and inclusion,” Garisa added. ” As we look ahead, there’s an exciting opportunity for Philippine businesses to leverage this strong foundation in workplace equality and lead the way for inclusive workplaces across the region.”
The survey was conducted as part of TRIUMPH, Asia’s leading virtual career fair for diversity, demonstrating foundit’s commitment to promoting inclusive workplaces.
As organisations navigate the evolving landscape of workplace diversity, this survey serves as a crucial benchmark, offering insights into current practices and highlighting areas for future focus and improvement. By leveraging their strengths and addressing opportunities for growth, companies can create even more inclusive and successful workplaces.
About foundit – APAC & Middle East
foundit, formerly Monster (APAC & ME) is a leading talent platform offering comprehensive employment solutions to recruiters and job seekers across APAC & ME. In addition to a powerful AI-powered job search, foundit offers e-learning, assessments, and services related to resume creation, interview preparation, and professional networking. Since its inception, the company has assisted over 90 million job seekers across 18 countries in upskilling and connecting them with the right job opportunities. foundit is now also the Official Talent Partner of the Badminton World Federation across 20 key world tour events.
Over the last two decades, the company has been a leader in the world of recruitment solutions and has recently launched a cutting-edge solution to give recruiters access to passive candidates in addition to active ones. With the use of advanced technology, foundit is seeking to efficiently bridge the talent gap across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies.
Today, foundit is committed to enabling and connecting the right talent with the right opportunities by harnessing the power of deep tech to sharpen hyper-personalised job searches and offer precision hiring.
The Malaysian CropLife & Public Health Association (MCPA), a national association representing the plant science and public health industries of Malaysia, calls for action against illegal pesticides after the tragic poisoning incidents of two young boys and the hospitalization of a teenager upon consumption of rat poison-laced snacks, as reported in the media. These heartbreaking events underscore the urgent need for stringent measures against the use and sale of illegal pesticides.
“The use of illegal and unregistered pesticides poses significant risks not just to public health but also to the environment and economies. We strongly condemn the use of such products,” said Ms. Marie Goh Chooi Fong, Associate Director, Malaysian CropLife & Public Health Association (MCPA).
“Furthermore, the proliferation of unregistered and illegal pesticides through online platforms is a growing concern. We urge the authorities to intensify efforts to govern the online sale of pesticides. Ensuring that all pesticides sold online are properly registered and comply with safety standards is crucial to prevent further tragedies,” she added.
Pesticides are some of the most tested and regulated products in the world. Likewise, in Malaysia, the pesticide industry is rigorously regulated by the Pesticides Board (PB) of the Department of Agriculture (DOA). Only pesticides that comply with stringent safety, toxicology, bio-efficacy, and other standards are approved by PB for sale. MCPA members, as registrants, strictly adhere to the Act, rules, and guidelines provided by PB to ensure safety while supporting national needs, including food security. Additionally, MCPA members adhere to the International Code of Conduct on Pesticides Management (ICOC) by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN).
MCPA and its members have been actively promoting Good Agriculture Practice (GAP) and stewardship programs for decades. These stewardship programs include educating users and promoting practices that encourage the responsible, safe and efficient use of pesticides. This is undertaken within the context of promoting an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy and forms an important part of the industry’s life-cycle approach to product stewardship. MCPA also partners with the food value chain and government agencies to ensure food safety.
MCPA remains committed to supporting farmers and advancing the use of innovative agricultural technologies for a safe, affordable and secure food supply.
About Malaysian CropLife & Public Health Association (MCPA)
MCPA is a non-profit trade association, the voice of the plant science and public health industry in Malaysia. We advocate a safe, secure food supply, and our vision is food security enabled by innovative agriculture. MCPA is one of the 15 national associations under CropLife Asia, based in Singapore. For more information, visit us at www.mcpa.org.my.
For more information please contact: Marie Goh Chooi Fong Associate Director Malaysian CropLife & Public Health Association (MCPA) marie@mcpa.org.my
