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ASEAN-GCC-China collaboration signals growing demand for multilateralism

The United States (U.S.) persistent efforts to maintain its fading unipolar dominance – through tariffs, sanctions, military presence, and dollar hegemony – have sparked a global pushback, prompting nations to seek refuge in multilateral alliances. –Dr Julia Roknifard Among the most notable is the BRICS organisation, which has grown in prominence. However, this is just one of many such organisations, all of which share the common theme of nations outside the traditional Western sphere banding together to insulate themselves from Washington’s overreach. This shift is driven not by ideology but by necessity. One recent example of this trend is the imposition of tariffs on the photovoltaic sector of several Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members. These new duties follow previous tariffs placed late last year, under the pretext that ASEAN is merely a transshipment hub for Chinese-manufactured goods. These measures have fuelled dissatisfaction among ASEAN members, especially given the historical trade dynamics in the region. Originally formed during the Cold War to address tensions between non-communist Southeast Asian nations, ASEAN has since evolved into a diverse bloc. It now includes republican democracies, constitutional monarchies, and socialist states, all united in the pursuit of regional integration and socio-economic development. The timing of Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 is fortuitous. Under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia is pushing for a neutral, trade-focused course, seeking economic cooperation with multiple nations while avoiding confrontation. Though there are exceptions, the overarching policy remains intact. Similarly, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), established in 1981 amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, has evolved from a regional security pact into a significant player in global energy markets. With vast reserves of hydrocarbons, the GCC now seeks greater economic diversification and long-term fiscal sustainability in light of the rise of new energy industries. During the early […]

Secutech 2025 concludes with optimism and strong affirmation of growth

Taipei, 21 May 2025. Secutech 2025 brought together a vibrant network of innovators and industry leaders at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre in May, with concurrent Fire & Safety and Smart Building events. Featuring 396 exhibitors from nine countries and regions, the fair showcased the latest advancements in security technology, AI integration, and IoT, with offerings ranging from disaster prevention and fire protection to intelligent management. The platform underscored the growing demand for integrated smart security solutions across diverse industries, attracting over 14,057 visitors from 44 countries and regions. “Secutech has once again proven to be an invaluable platform for fostering innovation and collaboration across multiple sectors,” said Ms Regina Tsai, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd – Taiwan Branch. “From critical infrastructure and transportation to healthcare, manufacturing, and real estate, the fair has helped bridge the gap between technology providers and end users. By showcasing cutting-edge solutions in smart security, IoT, and AI integration, Secutech continues to drive meaningful progress in safety, efficiency, and resilience across industries.” Opening the event, Mr Huan-Zhang Xiao, Director General, National Fire Agency, Ministry of the Interior, remarked: “It is an honour to be part of Secutech 2025. I am inspired by the dedication of participants committed to fire safety, smart security, industrial safety, and environmental health. As we face escalating challenges from disaster risks and climate change, this fair serves as a crucial platform for driving innovation and international collaboration. Together, we aim to strengthen disaster resilience and pursue our shared vision of preserving lives, upgrading industries, and achieving net-zero carbon emissions.” Reflecting strong market demand, Secutech 2025 featured diverse exhibitors from Australia, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, and the US. The fair brought together innovative start-ups and established leaders, highlighting advancements in surveillance automation, smart monitoring systems, biometric authentication devices, […]

Zoomlion’s grand debut at 2025 Changsha International Construction Equipment Exhibition

Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. has wrapped up a blockbuster exhibition at the 4th Changsha International Construction Equipment Exhibition (CICEE 2025) which was held from May 15 to 18 in Changsha, China. Zoomlion delivers the ZAT40000H, the world’s largest 4,000-ton all-terrain crane, at CICEE 2025. At CICEE 2025, Zoomlion showcased over 100 units of advanced equipment from nine major product categories including hoisting, concrete, earthmoving, mining, aerial work, emergency equipment and more as well as groundbreaking solutions, leading the industry to a new peak of high-end, intelligent and green development. Zoomlion Chairman and CEO Zhan Chunxin attended multiple high-level activities during the exhibition and accompanied a delegation of African envoys to China to tour the company’s exhibition zone, where he introduced the company’s technological breakthroughs in high-end, intelligent, and sustainable development. As the CICEE 2025 opened, Zoomlion celebrated the delivery of three units of the 4,000-ton ZAT40000H, the world’s largest tonnage all-terrain crane, which is Zoomlion’s record-breaking benchmark creation leading the industry sector into a new era of mega tonnage. It’s widely recognised in the market for strong lifting performance, flexible driving and site transfer, convenient and efficient operation, and addressing the exact pain points of wind turbine installation and construction. On May 17, Zoomlion also unveiled another world record – the world’s tallest 216-meter wind energy luffing tower crane LW2800A-200NA, specially developed for ultra-height wind power projects. With outstanding lifting capability, low site requirements, high efficiency, strong wind resistance, and ease of transport and dismantling, the crane is well suited to diverse terrains, including farmlands, hills, swamps, and plateaus. Zoomlion also hosted a new product launch event for its intelligent mining machinery portfolio, revealing 23 models including mining excavators, mining trucks, loaders, bulldozers and crushing and screening equipment as well as 15 premium large-scale, electrified, unmanned […]

Trymax Semiconductor Equipment B.V. reaches 500 process chamber installations in Asia

Trymax, a leading provider of plasma- and UV-based solutions for semiconductor manufacturing, announces the installation of its 500th process chamber in Asia. This milestone reflects continued momentum across key regional markets—including China, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, and the Philippines—and signals strong progress toward the company’s goal of 1,000 global installations by the end of 2025. “Reaching 500 installations in Asia is a significant milestone for Trymax,” said Peter Dijkstra, Chief Commercial Officer at Trymax Semiconductor Equipment. “It reflects our team’s dedication to delivering practical, high-performance solutions with the speed and reliability that our customers need in order to stay competitive.” Responsiveness as a Competitive Edge In an industry where uptime, productivity, and reliability are critical, Trymax has earned a reputation for being highly responsive—from the inquiry stage to post-installation support. The company’s nimble structure allows it to take action quickly and decisively, enabling customers to manufacture with confidence. Many partners have cited the ease of communication with Trymax, and the timely support received, as reasons for early and continued engagement. Supporting Asia’s Semiconductor Surge Asia continues to lead global semiconductor growth, driven by accelerated adoption in high-demand sectors. Customers across the region are pushing forward with innovation and scale, particularly in: Automotive: The transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) is reshaping the industry. EVs require significantly more semiconductors—often up to 3,000 chips per vehicle—due to greater electrification, power management, and onboard computing systems. This shift is fueling demand for reliable, high-throughput semiconductor processing solutions. Artificial Intelligence (AI): The rise of AI and machine learning applications—from data centers to edge devices—is creating a surge in demand for advanced microprocessors and high-density memory. Backend processes play a critical role in ensuring the performance and yield of these complex chips, making equipment reliability and process control essential. 5G […]

Meet Sidel at ProPak Asia 2025 – Discover Aseptic & Digital Innovations

At ProPak Asia 2025, Booth AB06, Hall 101, Sidel will showcase its advanced packaging solutions, led by the Aseptic Combi Predis with dry preform sterilisation. Visitors can also explore complete line solutions, IntelliADJUST for consistent PET quality, and the Evo-ON® digital suite for real-time performance insights. Together, these innovations boost efficiency, sustainability, and product integrity. Leading aseptic technology Sidel will showcase its Aseptic Combi Predis on booth – an integrated blow-fill-cap solution for PET bottles featuring patented Predis dry preform sterilisation. By eliminating conveying, empty-bottle handling, and storage, this system maximises efficiency and continuous production. Sidel is a global leader in aseptic packaging, with 47 years of expertise and over 300 systems installed worldwide, including more than 30 FDA-approved solutions. Across Asia, the Aseptic Combi Predis is recognised as the market’s simplest and fastest aseptic solution to safely package sensitive beverages like dairy products, juices, soft drinks, and teas. Unlike traditional methods, this technology sterilises packaging at the preform stage using a hydrogen peroxide mist, eliminating contamination risks and ensuring complete sterility. It enhances food safety, preserves product quality, and extends shelf life, all while significantly reducing water and chemical usage. Meeting evolving consumer demands Consumers are increasingly seeking natural and functional beverages, such as coconut water, driving demand for packaging that preserves quality while being eco-friendly. Sustainability remains a top priority, with brands focusing on lightweight packaging, 100% rPET bottles, and energy-efficient production processes. At trade shows like ProPak Asia, these shifting consumer preferences and packaging trends take centre stage, offering a platform for industry players to explore innovative, future-ready solutions. A key example is Hainan Chunguang, a leading coconut water producer that partnered with Sidel to adopt a flexible, high-efficiency PET bottling line. This solution enabled them to meet growing demand while ensuring product safety and sustainability. By […]

Hong Kong and Middle East: Partnering for Success

Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), John Lee, hailed as a “success” his recent visit to the Middle East (May 10-15), where he led a delegation of more than 50 business leaders and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and Mainland China on a visit to Qatar and Kuwait. “This Middle East visit has elevated Hong Kong’s relations with Qatar and Kuwait to a new level, bringing more business opportunities to Hong Kong,” Mr Lee said. Summing up the trip, the Chief Executive said the delegation had achieved three key objectives: to strengthen government-to-government relations; to find new areas of collaboration; and to make friends and extend networks in the region. “We share a common commitment to deepening bilateral co-operation in trade, investment and cultural exchanges,” Mr Lee said, noting his roundtable discussion with senior Kuwaiti officials hosted by the Acting Prime Minister of Kuwait His Excellency Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah. The Chief Executive highlighted six particularly successful areas of the trip. First, strengthening relations with the governments of Qatar and Kuwait, and building consensus for collaboration. Second, reaching a total of 59 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and agreements (35 in Qatar and 24 in Kuwait), laying a diversified foundation for multifaceted co-operation. Third, leveraging Hong Kong’s strengths under “one country, two systems” as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”, bridging global opportunities and linking the Mainland and the world. Fourth, bolstering ties between Hong Kong and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. The Chief Executive, together with his previous Middle East mission to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in 2023, has visited four of the six GCC member states. “The HKSAR Government is now actively exploring a free trade agreement with the GCC to further access this vital market,” Mr Lee said. Fifth, […]

67th Session of the APO Governing Body sets strategic direction for a unified productivity vision

The Asian Productivity Organisation (APO) convened the 67th Session of the Governing Body (GBM), 20–22 May 2025 in Jakarta, hosted by the Government of the Republic of Indonesia. This annual session brought together over 50 delegates representing APO member governments to discuss the APO’s strategic direction and ensure the organization’s continued credibility, effectiveness, and relevance amid a rapidly evolving productivity landscape. The 67th GBM saw numerous important leadership transitions. APO Director for India Amardeep Singh Bhatia took on the position of APO Chair for 2025–26, taking over from APO Director for Fiji Jone Maritino Nemani. APO Director for Indonesia Agung Nur Rohmad and APO Director for the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Mohammad Saleh Owlia were also appointed as First and Second Vice Chairs, respectively. The Governing Body expressed its continued confidence in the forward-looking leadership of incumbent Secretary-General Dr. Indra Pradana Singawinata, nominated by the Government of Indonesia, by electing him for a second term as Secretary-General from September 2025 to September 2028. In his opening statement, APO Chair Bhatia emphasized India’s commitment to the APO’s vision of inclusive, innovation-led, sustainable productivity growth in the Asia-Pacific region as a founding member of the APO. He also reaffirmed India’s dedication to enhancing the institutional efficiency and strategic alignment of the APO through its chairmanship and praised the significant progress made on the development of the Green Productivity (GP) 2.0 ecosystem. The inaugural session of the GBM was graced by H.E. Minister of Manpower of the Republic of Indonesia Professor Yassierli. In his inaugural speech, Minister Professor Yassierli underscored the urgency of responding collectively to a rapidly changing global landscape marked by economic uncertainty, technological disruption, and mounting sustainability pressures. Under such conditions, productivity should not be treated as competition among nations but rather as a shared journey rooted in mutual […]

Asia Industrial Online Exhibition 2025

The Asian Industrial Online Exhibition 2025 (AIOE 2025) is from March 31 to July 31, 2025, offering international buyers an exclusive opportunity to explore Asia’s top industrial manufacturers—all in one place, without the constraints of geography or time. This four-month hybrid exhibition, co-organised by AsianNet and TradeAsia (www.e-tradeasia.com), is designed specifically to meet the growing needs of global buyers seeking reliable suppliers, advanced technologies, and efficient sourcing solutions from across Asia. Since its successful debut in 2022, AIOE has continued to deliver outstanding results for both buyers and exhibitors. For 2025, the exhibition will expand its reach with a four-month duration, strategically aligned with major global industrial events such as Hannover Messe, Global Industrie, Automate 2025, and Manufacturing World Tokyo. This synchronised timing allows buyers to explore and compare solutions from multiple regions in one procurement cycle—maximizing efficiency and market visibility. AIOE 2025 features a robust lineup of respected Taiwanese manufacturers, including industry leaders such as ASCCO INTERNATIONAL, ZITAI PRECISION MACHINERY, TW GRANDEUR MACHINERY, SAN SHING MACHINERY, U-CAN DYNATEX, KINGDOM ABRASIVE, JESPER PET, OAV EQUIPMENT & TOOLS, UNITRONIC AUTOMATION, CHU-SHIANG INDUSTRIAL, SHANG-YUH MACHINE, KINGDOM MACHINERY, CHUEN CHARNG, YNG YUH ELECTRONIC, and many more. These companies will present thousands of the latest industrial products and technologies, covering a wide array of sectors crucial to modern manufacturing and production. Buyers can explore everything from bearings, castings, and mold-making components to general industrial equipment and mechanical parts. The exhibition also includes cutting-edge solutions in machine tools, metalworking systems, and mining and metallurgy machinery. In addition, it showcases advanced testing instruments, precision measurement devices, automation technologies, and essential industrial electronics such as power supply units, electromechanical components, and industrial computers. Packaging machinery and supporting equipment are also well represented, ensuring buyers have access to complete sourcing solutions across the entire industrial supply chain. […]

Secutech 2025 to uncover range of advanced security and fire safety solutions

As Taiwan’s security industry continues to evolve with technological advancements and increased diversification, various vertical markets are poised for significant growth. Secutech, scheduled for 7 – 9 May 2025 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, aims to capitalise on this burgeoning demand. Around 400 international and local exhibitors are set to showcase the latest technologies and solutions across six zones and pavilions at the fair, which serves as a vital platform to connect security and fire safety suppliers with key industry players in Taiwan. Recent reports indicate that Taiwan’s security market is projected to compound at an annual rate of 6.6%, reaching an estimated USD 119.9 million by 2029[1]. At the same time, the artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) landscape is reshaping various industries and driving an increasing demand for upgrading equipment and systems aimed at improving fire and safety efficiency. Affected settings include hospitals, industrial sites, parking facilities, old buildings, factories, shopping malls, and energy storage facilities. Exhibitors at Secutech 2025 will be integral to this wave of advanced technology, showcasing the integration of 5G, AI, and IoT in security and fire safety equipment for real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and automated responses, ensuring higher efficiency and safety across multiple industries. The 26th edition will welcome prominent international brands in the global security landscape, including NetworkOptix, Panasonic, Blazecut Group, and Mabu Valley Outdoor Ltd. With Taiwan’s longstanding reputation as one of Asia-Pacific’s technological hubs and its expanding influence in high-tech industries[2], major Taiwanese manufacturers are pivotal players in the global security manufacturing space. At the show, key local exhibitors will feature their advanced technology, including: TDV – Triple Domain Vision Co Ltd will showcase advanced front-end intelligent video analytics to enhance surveillance effectiveness and operational efficiencies. Avadesign Technology Co Ltd will display a comprehensive suite of security monitoring and management […]

CeMAT Southeast Asia returns to Singapore

CeMAT Southeast Asia, the leading logistics and supply chain innovation trade event, is set to return to Singapore from 19 to 21 May 2025 at Singapore EXPO. Bringing together leading technology and service providers, CeMAT Southeast Asia will offer a one-stop hub for the latest in intralogistics, robotics and automation, warehousing, supply chain management, and materials handling. Attendees can expect cutting-edge product demonstrations, industry-leading solutions, and deep dives into best practices across key sectors, including e-commerce, manufacturing, food industry, pharmaceutical, FMCG, supply chain management and retail. Organised by Hannover Fairs Asia Pacific, a subsidiary of Deutsche Messe, the event is the premier platform for industry professionals to explore the latest innovations shaping the warehouse of the future. With over 60 exhibitors, attendees can look forward to networking opportunities with key industry leaders. Notable world class exhibitors include SSI Schaefer, Daifuku, Honeywell, Körber Supply Chain, Interroll, Geek+, AutoStore, GreyOrange, Hikrobot and many more. The growing demand for advanced intralogistics technologies, along with the increasing adoption of supply chain storage in Southeast Asia, is driving market demand. A 2024 Gartner survey indicated that nearly 57% of organizations plan to increase their budgets in at least one of the four supply chain functions by more than 10% over the next three years. With Malaysia’s ambitions to strengthen its position as a regional logistics and automation hub under its New Industrial Master Plan 2030, CeMAT Southeast Asia presents a valuable opportunity for Malaysian businesses to explore cutting-edge technologies, forge cross-border partnerships, and scale innovations regionally. The event is expected to see growing participation from Malaysian manufacturers, retailers, and supply chain leaders seeking to stay competitive in a fast-evolving trade environment. The global supply chain landscape is evolving rapidly in the face of rising tariff pressures, trade realignments and growing complexity. Events like CeMAT Southeast […]

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