Business News

Preview of the 2025 CIFTIS: Key Highlights Revealed in Advance

BEIJING – The Shougang Park, a former industrial site transformed into an “urban showcase,” will welcome the 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services (2025 CIFTIS) this September. The annual theme of this year’s event is “Embrace Intelligent Technologies, Empower Trade in Services,” with over 800 companies already expressing interest in participating offline. The Shougang Park, photographed on August 11 by Zhang Chenlin, Xinhua News Agency. With less than a month remaining before the opening of CIFTIS, how are preparations progressing, and what new highlights can be expected from the exhibitions? Reporters conducted on-site visits for a closer look. More Open: New Entry Policies to Facilitate International Engagement It was learned that exhibitor recruitment for both the thematic and specialised exhibitions has been largely completed. Nearly 70 countries and international organisations have indicated their intention to participate by setting up booths or hosting events. The nine major specialised exhibitions have attracted interest from more than 800 companies to exhibit offline, including over 330 Fortune Global 500 companies and leading industry enterprises. The overall internationalisation rate of the exhibition exceeds 20%, covering 24 of the top 30 countries and regions in global service trade. Yang Huasen, Spokesperson of Beichen Group, stated that over 170 forums, conferences, and promotional events have already been scheduled. More than 70 companies, including Schneider Electric, have applied to release over 130 new products and achievements during the event. To further facilitate international engagement, this year’s CIFTIS continues to expand on entry facilitation measures initiated last year, such as setting up immigration service counters at the venue. This year, seven new convenience measures will be implemented, including: allowing foreign participants with official invitations to apply for port visas at Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport; offering online accommodation registration services for foreign visitors; […]

Global-local alliance powers a new era in Japan’s geothermal energy

Swedish company Baseload Capital has announced a strategic investment in Japanese geothermal energy developer Furusato Netsuden. The partnership aims to unlock Japan’s untapped geothermal potential and build a replicable model for sustainable energy development worldwide. Combining a global investment portfolio with a community-rooted business model, this strategic partnership aims to scale clean, renewable energy respectfully, revitalizing local economies while honoring cultural heritage. Furusato Netsuden brings deep local roots, trust, and operational expertise to the partnership, while Baseload Capital contributes international investment, global reach and the power of committed owners such as Google and Breakthrough Energy Ventures. Japan’s untapped geothermal power Japan has the third largest geothermal potential globally, with an estimated 23 GW, yet its current installed capacity is only 576 MW. This represents a major untapped opportunity for a country whose Green Transformation (GX) Strategy aims for net-zero emissions by 2050. Geothermal energy is clean, always-on, and space-efficient. That makes it an ideal solution for a mountainous, densely populated nation with high reliance on energy imports and growing clean-energy demand from AI and data centers. Japan’s geothermal development has been slow, in part, because there’s no common business model that enables communities to share in the benefits. However, Furusato Netsuden and its local partners have developed a system to ensure communities benefit directly from geothermal energy. The Waita model – a ground-breaking approach In 2011, residents of the Waita area in Oguni Town, Kumamoto Prefecture, formed the limited liability company Waita-kai, which is owned by the community. In partnership with Furusato Netsuden, they set out to develop geothermal power together in a way that would revitalize the community. The name Furusato Netsuden combines the words for “hometown”, “heat” and “electricity”. A respectful and collaborative business model This model protects local land rights, ensures development is carried out on […]

Alpha Group partners with Flight Digital and Impact PR to strengthen global presence

Major Investment in Biotech Manufacturing New Zealand biotech exporter Alpha Group has confirmed new strategic partnerships with digital specialists Flight Digital and public relations consultancy Impact PR, to accelerate its international expansion. The announcement comes on the back of Alpha’s NZ$115 million investment into a new 60,000m² biotech manufacturing facility in China. This advanced site will significantly increase production of Alpha’s patented plant and fungal fermentation compounds, with projected revenues expected to exceed NZ$225 million annually. Elevating Digital Infrastructure Flight Digital has been engaged to lead the redevelopment of Alpha’s international website. Built on the flexible Sanity CMS platform, the site will deliver faster publishing, multilingual regional content, and customised experiences for diverse markets. Managing director Victor Green said Alpha’s reputation deserved a digital presence equal to its global ambitions. “Alpha is one of those companies that has achieved world-class innovation quietly. This project will create the digital foundation needed to showcase that success globally and give international audiences the confidence to engage with them,” he said. Auckland PR Agency Impact PR to Drive International Storytelling Alongside its digital upgrade, Alpha has also appointed Impact PR (the PR agency New Zealand businesses trust) to manage its international communications programme. The Cannes Award-winning consultancy will highlight Alpha’s scientific breakthroughs, export growth, and leadership within New Zealand’s nutraceutical sector. Impact PR director Mark Devlin said Alpha Group exemplifies how Kiwi science can scale commercially. “Alpha represents a shift in how research and manufacturing in New Zealand can generate real commercial outcomes abroad. We are excited to help tell that story and support a company that continues to reinvest in local innovation,” he said. From Garage Startup to Global Player Founded in a West Auckland garage in 1998 by Professor Yihuai Gao, Alpha Group has evolved into a vertically integrated biotech manufacturer with a global […]

Topcast authorised distributor of Druck in China and the APAC region

Topcast, the world-leading aircraft parts distributor and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) service provider, is proud to announce its appointment as the authorised distributor for Druck Aerospace Pressure Sensors across China and the Asia-Pacific region. Under this new agreement, Druck — a Baker Hughes business — has designated Topcast Aviation Supplies Co., Ltd. as its primary distributor for aerospace pressure sensors. This partnership grants Topcast authorized aftermarket distribution rights to supply select Druck-manufactured products and spare parts to commercial airlines and other non-military customers throughout the region. “We are honored to welcome Druck to our distinguished portfolio of OEM partners,” said Orson Lo, Chief Commercial Officer of Topcast. “This collaboration underscores Druck’s confidence in our capabilities and reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional service and support to airline customers across Asia Pacific.” This strategic alliance further strengthens Topcast’s position as a trusted partner in the aviation supply chain, enhancing its ability to provide innovative and reliable solutions to the aerospace industry. About Druck For over 40 years, Druck, a Baker Hughes business, has been a trusted provider of flight-qualified pressure sensors for the aerospace industry. With more than 400,000 sensors in operation worldwide, Druck technology powers critical systems on all major commercial airframes. Today, 70% of all widebody aircraft rely on Druck sensors for precision and reliability across a wide range of applications. About Topcast Founded in 1991 and headquartered in Hong Kong SAR, Topcast is a world-leading trustworthy aircraft parts distributor and MRO service provider. We offer exceptional OEM and aftermarket aircraft parts, equipment and repair services for a broad range of aircraft types. With our strong global network, we have more than 20 offices across Asia-Pacific, Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, connecting suppliers with customers in all segments for over 90 countries. Please visit www.topcast.com

Accelerating Robotic Sensing: BLT and Haptron Scientific Co-Engineer Next-Gen Optical Force Sensors

As humanoid robotics and embodied intelligence technologies rapidly advance toward industrial-scale deployment, high-performance force sensing plays a critical role in enabling compliant control, precise manipulation, and robust mobility over complex terrains. Six-axis force/torque sensors have become essential components for safe and adaptive human-robot interaction. Since 2024, Haptron Scientific and Bright Laser Technologies (BLT) have collaborated to develop a new generation of optical six-axis force sensors. By integrating Haptron Scientific’s proprietary optical multimodal sensing technology with BLT’s expertise in metal additive manufacturing, the partnership has delivered a comprehensive sensor suite—including the Photon Finger, PhotonR40, Photon Ankle, and the latest industrial-grade Photon Finger Max—targeting force measurement needs at key robotic joints such as fingers, wrists, and ankles. By utilising BLT’s metal 3D printing technology, Haptron Scientific break traditional manufacturing limits, enabling complex miniaturized designs with fewer parts and simpler assembly. This innovation supports scalable production while delivering precise, durable, and lightweight force sensors for next-gen humanoid robots—enabling safer, more dexterous, and versatile robotic platforms. Photon Finger: World’s Smallest Six-Axis Force Sensor Designing dexterous hands for humanoid robots presents unique challenges—especially at the finger joints, where space is extremely constrained. These tight dimensions demand compact, high-performance sensors with seamless integration. To address the limitations of traditional machining—such as high cost, long lead times, and low yield—Haptron Scientific developed the world’s smallest six-axis force/torque sensor, the Photon Finger, using its proprietary optical multimodal sensing technology. With the support of BLT’s PBF-LB/M BLT-A100 machine and high-performance 18Ni350 maraging steel powder, the Photon Finger was structurally optimised for integration and part count reduction through one-piece metal 3D printing. This enabled: Miniaturised design tailored for tight finger joint integration 20-minute batch production cycle, with 15–30 units printed simultaneously 50–250% improvements in force range and overload tolerance Improved signal integrity, lower in-use power consumption, and faster communication—ideal for […]

Solving tapping challenges with smart tooling

In the world of precision manufacturing, the smallest of inefficiencies can create costly production roadblocks. For PT Sparta Guna Sentosa, an Indonesian automotive and industrial components manufacturer, one roadblock came in the form of persistent long chips during tapping operations — an issue that had long affected production efficiency and tool reliability. But through collaboration and the application of advanced solutions from metal cutting and manufacturing solutions manufacturer Sandvik Coromant, solving that challenge has unlocked new levels of productivity, cost savings and opportunity. Founded in 1986 in Bandung, Indonesia, PT Sparta Guna Sentosa started out servicing and manufacturing components for the textile industry. As of 2025, it manufactures a broad range of high-quality mechanical parts, such as pins, bushes and shafts for diverse industrial applications. Backed by advanced automation and machining capabilities, Sparta Guna Sentosa has positioned itself as quality-driven supplier. However, even the most well-equipped production lines can face technical challenges. Understanding the problem For years, the company struggled with long chip formation during tapping, a common but significant machining challenge. This issue led to several complications, including frequent machine downtime caused by chip jamming. As a result, scrap rates and rework increased, tool life became unpredictable and the risk of breakage rose. These problems compounded rather than occurred in isolation — worn tools accelerated chip buildup, requiring repeated spindle cleaning and further halting production. Despite multiple attempts to address the root cause, the company struggled to find a consistent and effective solution. Partnership that drives productivity Having already built a strong relationship with Sandvik Coromant through regular use of its drills and inserts, PT Sparta Guna Sentosa turned to the metal cutting expert for help resolving these tapping issues. Sandvik Coromant stepped in and proposed a live five-day trial using its CoroTap DT100-PM104DA-M8P1PL taps, featuring innovative chip-breaking geometry. […]

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Reshaping global lubricant supply chains: Trump-Era tariffs driving industry pivot towards Asia

With the global lubricants industry still adjusting to the lasting impact of U.S. trade policy enacted during the first presidential term of U.S. President Donald Trump, supply chains are undergoing dramatic shifts—and Asia is solidifying its role as the sector’s global hub. While the U.S. tariffs primarily targeted a broad range of Chinese industrial chemicals under Section 301, some specialty additives used in lubricant formulations were affected. In response, U.S. manufacturers have faced increased costs, sourcing uncertainties, and production delays, prompting a re-evaluation of procurement strategies. These disruptions have had ripple effects across the automotive, industrial, and specialty lubricant markets worldwide. Strategic Realignment: From the West to the East As regulatory complexity and economic uncertainty mount in the U.S. and European markets, many lubricant producers, OEMs, and blenders are redirecting investment and operational focus toward Asia. The region already accounts for the world’s largest share of lubricant demand and continues to post some of the fastest growth, driven by expanding industrialization and vehicle ownership. Asia’s strong manufacturing base, growing consumer markets, and expanding infrastructure for lubricant production make it an attractive destination for global expansion. Companies are deepening their presence in countries such as China, India, Malaysia, and Singapore—tapping into local production advantages, aligning with regional OEMs, and building supply chain resilience. The Asian Lubricant Exhibition 2025: Spotlighting the Industry’s Transformation The challenges—and potential advantages—of this strategic global shift will take center stage at the Asian Lubricant Exhibition 2025, held September 9–11 at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Hall 403, Level 4. As Asia’s only dedicated trade show focused on the lubricants value chain, the event provides a timely platform for addressing trade disruptions, supply chain realignment, and emerging opportunities across the region. The exhibition and exhibitor presentations are open to the public, free of charge. Pre-registration is […]

India gains trade momentum amid tariff and global supply chain shakeup

In a rapidly evolving global trade landscape, India stands out with its competitive advantage stemming from relatively lower tariff rates compared to several key trading partners. With a tariff rate of 26%, as of July 2025, which might reduce to below 20% amid speculations of a trade deal with the US, India is positioned to leverage its trade potential, particularly in sectors such as chemicals, electrical machinery, pharmaceuticals, textiles and agricultural goods, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. Ramnivas Mundada, Director of Economic Research and Companies at GlobalData, comments: “India’s tariff rate is relatively lower than other countries, including China (30%), Mexico (30%), and the EU (30%). “This favorable environment not only presents a unique opportunity for Indian exporters to but also enhances the price competitiveness of Indian goods and encourages foreign investment, fostering innovation and growth. Against this backdrop, GlobalData forecasts an average growth rate of 6.5% from 2025 to 2027, positioning India to become the third-largest economy by 2027.” According to NITI Aayog, India can capitalise on 78 product categories (HS 4 codes) for exports to the US, accounting for 52% of its current exports. In the HS 2 code category, India enjoys lower tariffs than competitors in 22 of the top 30 products. This advantage arises from significant tariff hikes on goods from China, Canada, and Mexico. Although India faces slightly higher tariffs in six product categories, there remains a substantial growth potential, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electrical machinery, enhancing India’s export competitiveness. Data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry reveals that India’s exports to the US increased by 23.5% in June 2025 and by 22.2% from April to June 2025 compared to the same period last year. This growth has positioned the US as India’s largest trading partner for the […]

Sidel’s Beijing Plant unveils large-scale installation advancing green factory initiative

Sidel’s Beijing Plant’s rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system has now achieved full grid connection. Thousands of PV panels now form a blue armour-like array across the facility, gleaming under the sunlight. This milestone green energy project injects new momentum into Sidel’s sustainable operations, marking a solid step forward in the company’s decarbonisation journey and setting a new benchmark for green transformation in the industry. Solar PV system powers low-carbon operations as ‘Green Energy Hub’ launched With an installed capacity of 2.1 MW, Sidel Beijing’s solar system is expected to generate 4,394,700 kWh annually – meeting 60% of the plant’s daily operational electricity needs and reducing CO₂ emissions by 2,452 tonnes per year. Through the innovative ‘self-consumption with surplus feed-in’ model, 35% of the clean energy generated will be fed back into the municipal grid via smart power networks after fulfilling on-site demand. This enables optimised allocation and efficient utilisation of green energy, transforming every ray of sunlight into sustainable power. As a signature project to China’s ‘Dual Carbon’ strategy implementation, the installation features industry-leading LONGi Hi-MO7 high-efficiency modules with 615W panel power and a top-tier conversion efficiency of 23.1%. Multi-pronged approach to building a model green factory Since establishing operations in Beijing in 2008, Sidel Beijing Plant has embedded sustainability into its core strategy. Continuous environmental investments and innovations culminated in 2025 certifications including ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System; ISO 14064-1:2018 Zero Carbon Factory; and GB/T 39257-2020 / GB/T 33635-2017 5-Star Green Supply Chain Management. As a Beijing-certified Green Factory, Sidel’s environmental efforts go far beyond solar energy, encompassing an intelligent Energy Management System (EMS) and Building Automation System (BAS) for precise energy control; a retrofit programme for equipment frequency conversion to reduce consumption; low-temperature distillation technology to minimise effluent from acid-wash passivation; continuous optimisation of water recycling systems […]

$2.3b AI-Focused data center for Jakarta

Jakarta, Indonesia, 17 June 2025 – EDGNEX Data Centers by DAMAC, a global digital infrastructure company backed by the DAMAC Group, a global conglomerate headquartered in Dubai, today announced the development of a next-generation AI-powered data center in Jakarta, Indonesia, its second in the market. This milestone project marks one of Southeast Asia’s largest AI-dedicated developments, with a future projected capacity of 144 MW and a total investment of $2.3 billion. Following the land acquisition completed in March 2025 by DAMAC, the site has entered early construction phases, with the facility’s phase one expected to be ready for service by December 2026. The Jakarta facility will deploy high-density AI racks, setting new benchmarks for next-generation infrastructure in the region. As a foundational asset in Indonesia’s digital journey, it will be pivotal in accelerating the country’s transition from an analogue base to a robust, AI-powered digital economy. Indonesia remains a high-potential Southeast Asian market yet faces digital infrastructure gaps, limited hyperscale readiness, and rising latency challenges. With AI adoption accelerating across sectors, this project responds to the nation’s growing demand for scalable, energy-efficient infrastructure. “This is our second project in Indonesia, and this development reinforces our commitment to bridging the digital divide in fast-growing markets across Southeast Asia (SEA), such as Indonesia,” said Hussain Sajwani, Founder of DAMAC Group. “We are proud to build what will become one of Southeast Asia’s most advanced, sustainable data centers to power the next wave of innovation and digital growth. The scale of AI workloads demands a new class of infrastructure. This project is part of our broader push across SEA, where we have committed over USD 3 billion in digital infrastructure investments to date.” The facility will target a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.32, significantly enhancing energy efficiencies and aligning with EDGNEX’s global […]

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