Category: Trade

Posted on

Economy – Interim Financial Statements of the Government of New Zealand for the seven months ended 31 January 2026

Source: New Zealand Treasury

Thursday, 5 March 2026 – The Interim Financial Statements of the Government of New Zealand for the seven months ended 31 January 2026 were released by the Treasury today. The January results are reported against forecasts based on the Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update 2025 (HYEFU 2025), published on 16 December 2025, and the results for the same period for the previous year.

The key fiscal indicators for the seven months ended 31 January 2026 were overall favourable compared to the forecast. The Government’s main operating indicator, the operating balance before gains and losses excluding ACC (OBEGALx), showed a deficit of $6.0 billion. This deficit was $1.9 billion smaller than forecast. Net core Crown debt was lower than forecast by $1.1 billion at $184.3 billion, or 41.9% of GDP.

Core Crown tax revenue was $70.4 billion, broadly in line with forecast (0.1% below), with small offsetting variances across the major tax types.

Core Crown revenue was $77.3 billion, around $0.4 billion (0.6%) below forecast. Revenue from the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme was lower than expected due to the decline in the NZU price since the forecasts were prepared.

Core Crown expenses, at $83.1 billion, were $1.2 billion (1.5%) below forecast, reflecting lower spending across a range of functional classifications.

The OBEGALx deficit was $1.9 billion less than the forecast deficit. This reflects the core Crown variances mentioned above coupled with favourable results from Crown entities and State-Owned Enterprises.

The operating balance was a surplus of $4.0 billion, $4.5 billion stronger than forecast. The variance reflected a favourable OBEGAL result of $1.8 billion and stronger‑than‑forecast net gains on non‑financial instruments ($2.8 billion), partly offset by weaker-than-expected net gains on financial instruments ($0.3 billion).

The core Crown residual cash deficit of $1.9 billion was $0.8 billion smaller than forecast, reflecting lower operating outflows and higher capital cash inflows.

Net core Crown debt at $184.3 billion (41.9% of GDP) was $1.1 billion lower than forecast. This variance was largely driven by the smaller‑than‑forecast core Crown residual cash deficit mentioned above.

Gross debt at $220.6 billion (50.2% of GDP) was $3.6 billion lower than forecast. This reflected lower‑than‑forecast issuances of Euro Commercial Paper and Treasury bills of $1.8 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively.

Net worth attributable to the Crown at $183.5 billion (41.7% of GDP) was $4.6 billion higher than forecast. This favourable variance largely reflects the stronger operating balance result of $4.5 billion, discussed previously.

  

  Year to date Full Year
January
2026
Actual1
$m		 January
2026
HYEFU 2025
Forecast1
$m		 Variance2
HYEFU 2025
$m		 Variance
HYEFU 2025
%		 June
2026
HYEFU 2025
Forecast3
$m
Core Crown tax revenue 70,392 70,452 (60) (0.1) 124,198
Core Crown revenue 77,250 77,683 (433) (0.6) 136,919
Core Crown expenses 83,084 84,329 1,245 1.5 149,047
Core Crown residual cash (1,923) (2,753) 830 30.1 (14,802)
Net core Crown debt4 184,335 185,418 1,083 0.6 196,987
          as a percentage of GDP 41.9% 42.2%     43.3%
Gross debt 220,577 224,211 3,634 1.6 227,225
          as a percentage of GDP 50.2% 51.0%     50.0%
OBEGAL excluding ACC (OBEGALx) (6,002) (7,883) 1,881 23.9 (13,852)
OBEGAL (6,458) (8,236) 1,778 21.6 (16,934)
Operating balance (excluding minority interests) 4,022 (504) 4,526 – (6,547)
Net worth attributable to the Crown 183,485 178,844 4,641  2.6  172,693
          as a percentage of GDP 41.7% 40.7%     38.0%

Using the most recently published GDP (for the year ended 30 September 2025) of $439,709 million (Source: Stats NZ).
Favourable variances against forecast have a positive sign and unfavourable variances against forecast have a negative sign.
Using HYEFU 2025 forecast GDP for the year ending 30 June 2026 of $454,497 million (Source: The Treasury).
Net core Crown debt excludes the NZS Fund and core Crown advances. Net core Crown debt may fluctuate during the year largely reflecting the timing of tax receipts.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/economy-interim-financial-statements-of-the-government-of-new-zealand-for-the-seven-months-ended-31-january-2026/

Posted on

Trinity Medical Group Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Source: Media Outreach

New Board Appointments and Strategic Partnerships Drive Fresh Momentum Accelerating Expansion into Chinese Medicine and Physiotherapy

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2026 – Trinity Medical Group (“Trinity Medical” or the “Group”), a leading provider of patient-centred healthcare premium diagnostic imaging and screening services, today marks a significant milestone with its 10th anniversary. The Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Wu Ting-yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Member of the Standing Committee of the 12th and 13th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Dr. the Honourable Lam Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Member of the Executive Council, to its Board Members. In addition, the Group has entered into strategic partnerships with FWD, Prudential Hong Kong Limited, YF Life Insurance International Limited and United Imaging (in alphabetical order of company names), enhancing cross-sector synergies between premium healthcare services and insurance solutions to deliver comprehensive and high-quality care for clients.

Trinity Medical Group hosts its 10th anniversary celebration, which brings together distinguished leaders from the government, business, and medical sectors. The event is a remarkable success and sees an exceptional turnout.

The Group celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday (3 March), bringing together distinguished guests, Professor Lo Chung-mau, BBS, JP, Secretary for Health; Mr. Fan Hung-ling, Henry, SBS, JP, Chairman of the Hospital Authority; Mr. Tong Ka-shing, Carlson, GBS, JP, Chairman of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited; and Professor Ma Si-hang, Frederick, GBS, JP, Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, to commemorate this major chapter in its journey.

Mr. Lau Kevin Chung-hang, MH, Founder of Trinity Medical Group, remarked in the welcome speech, “With the steadfast support of our insurance partners, corporate clients, and medical professionals, as well as the commitment and trust of our professional team, our Group is proud to reach this significant 10th anniversary milestone. Looking ahead, we will remain dedicated to the principles of preventive medicine and will proactively expand our service portfolio. This year, we plan to introduce Traditional Chinese Medicine and physiotherapy services, further diversifying our offerings and providing the community with more comprehensive care as we drive the Group’s ongoing development.”

Mr. Lau Kevin Chung-hang, MH, Founder of Trinity Medical Group, delivered the welcome address. Mrs. Christine Ma-Lau, Director of Trinity Medical Group, delivered the thank-you speech.

Trinity Medical welcomes Professor Wu Ting-yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Member of the 12th and 13th Standing Committee of the National Committee of the CPPCC, as Non-Executive Chairman, and Dr. the Honourable Lam Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Member of the Executive Council, as Independent Non-Executive Director.Mr. Lau Kevin Chung-hang, MH remarked in his speech, “Professor Wu brings more than networks; he brings international governance DNA; Dr. Lam connects our boardroom strategy to bedside community care.” With the addition of these highly respected industry leaders, the Group is confident that their expertise and strategic insight will significantly strengthen the Group’s vision, clinical capabilities and overall growth trajectory, injecting new momentum into the Group’s future development.

Professor Wu Ting-yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Non-Executive Chairman of Trinity Medical Group (Left); Dr. the Honourable Lam Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Independent Non-Executive Director of Trinity Medical Group (Right).

Forging Cross-Industry Alliances to Pioneer New Frontiers in Chinese Medicine Consultations and Physiotherapy

At the anniversary celebration, Trinity Medical announced the strategic cooperation agreements with FWD, Prudential Hong Kong Limited, YF Life Insurance International Limited, and United Imaging. Through these partnerships, the Group aims to deliver international-standard diagnostic services and diverse insurance solutions, creating a seamless, one-stop integrated healthcare experience for clients.

Trinity Medical Group enters into a strategic partnership agreement with FWD and is honoured to have Mr. Ken Lau, Managing Director of Greater China and Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer, FWD, to attained the event and join the commemorative photo.

Trinity Medical Group enters into a strategic partnership agreement with Prudential Hong Kong Limited and is honoured to have Ms. Candy Au Yeung, Chief Customer Operation and Health Officer, Prudential Hong Kong Limited to attend the event and join the commemorative photo.

Trinity Medical Group enters into a strategic partnership agreement with YF Life Insurance Limited and is honoured to have Ms. Jasmine Hui, Chief Proposition Officer and Senior Vice President, YF Life Insurance Limited, to attend the event and join the commemorative photo.

Trinity Medical Group enters into a strategic partnership agreement with United Imaging, and expresses gratitude for United Imaging’s significant support in advancing medical technology.

Looking ahead, Trinity Medical will further diversify its service portfolio, including the introduction of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) consultations and physiotherapy services this year. These initiatives will continue to advance holistic recovery and preventive care initiatives. These efforts are designed to address the growing demand for premium healthcare and to reinforce the Group’s leadership within the sector.

Since its establishment in 2016, Trinity Medical has been committed to providing high-quality diagnostic imaging and health screening services. The Group continues to expand its clinical and check-up offerings, underscoring its drive for diversified development and excellence. To date, the Group has formed partnerships with over 10 insurance companies and earned the trust of over 300 corporate clients.

The professional team now exeeds 200 members, collectively having served more than 1.8 million individual clients. Its online health platform has recorded over 5.5 million visits, underscoring the Group’s industry leadership and strong market reputation.

In addition, Trinity Medical has also actively contributed to the community, including:

  • Supporting government primary healthcare policies: Over the past decade, the Group has provided influenza, COVID-19, and HPV vaccinations to more than 10,000 schoolchildren, helping to build herd immunity.
  • COVID-19 response: Throughout the pandemic, all Trinity Medical centres across the city offered COVID-19 vaccinations and PCR testing, providing accessible services throughout Hong Kong.
  • Supporting the “eHealth” initiative: By participating in the Hospital Authority’s referral network and the Electronic Health Record Sharing System, the Group has helped relieve the burden for tens of thousands of public hospital patients.
  • Appointed as a “SafeCity Ambassador 2025”: Trinity Medical has partnered with the Hong Kong Police Force to jointly promote crime prevention, cyber security, and mental health awareness.
  • Championing youth development: Through participation in the “Strive and Rise Programme,” the Group helps secondary school students learn about the medical profession and supports their personal growth.
  • Recognised for corporate social responsibility: The Group has been awarded the “Caring Company” and “Good Employer” accolades for consecutive years, reflecting our dedication to social welfare, employee development, and environmental protection.

(Starting from the left) Mrs. Christine Ma-Lau, Director of Trinity Medical Group; Dr. the Honourable Lam Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Independent Non-Executive Director of the Group; Professor Wu Ting-yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Non-Executive Chairman of the Group; and Mr. Lau Kevin Chung-hang, MH, Founder of the Group, officiate at the toasting ceremony.

Trinity Medical Group’s 10th Anniversary Celebration is attended and supported by prominent leaders from the government and business sectors.

Click here to download more event photos.

Hashtag: #TrinityMedical

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/trinity-medical-group-celebrates-10th-anniversary/

Posted on

Exports up more than $2b – powering economy

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand’s latest international trade statistics show robust performance across global markets, reflecting the skill, innovation, and resilience of Kiwi exporters who continue to rank among the best in the world, Trade and Investment Minister Hon Todd McClay says. 

Exports rose to $29.2 billion for the December quarter, up $2.2 billion on the same period last year, reinforcing the vital role trade plays in supporting the New Zealand economy, with one in four Kiwi jobs linked to trade.

The figures, released today, also show two-way trade increased strongly reaching $61.2 billion for this quarter.

“New Zealand exporters are winning in highly competitive global markets,” Mr McClay says. 

“Our farmers and growers are recognised internationally for their quality, reliability, and innovation. And these results are a testament to that.”

Of our top exports, the highest performers were dairy (up 10%), tourism (up 9.4%) and meat (up 21.4%) for the December quarter, compared to the same period last year.

Mr McClay says the latest data demonstrates the importance of open markets and strong trading relationships, particularly at a time of trade disruption and ongoing global economic uncertainty.

“Trade is a cornerstone of our economy. It supports jobs, drives higher incomes, and underpins growth in regions right across the country,” Mr McClay says.

“The Government is focused on backing exporters, reducing barriers at the border, strengthening our network of free trade agreements, and ensuring New Zealand businesses have the confidence and capability to succeed internationally.”

“As global conditions evolve, this Government remains committed to trade as a key driver of economic growth and prosperity for New Zealanders.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/exports-up-more-than-2b-powering-economy/

Posted on

Pest eradication on Kawau Island resumes

Source: Auckland Council

After taking a break over summer, to avoid disruption to the busiest season for residents and visitors to Kawau Island, Auckland Council and our project partners are resuming the pest eradication programme on the island with operations commencing in March.

With our field camera network and drone survey data revealing that numbers of wallabies and possums are higher in the southern part of the island than previously anticipated, hunting efforts will be supported by the permitted use of toxins (1080 cereal bait and cut foliage treated with 1080 gel) from Monday 9 March. 

This is dependent on the weather and ground conditions and will be undertaken in accordance with strict permit conditions.

Working towards a pest-free Kawau Island

Auckland Council has been working with Kawau Island landowners and residents to restore the extensive native forest on Kawau Island. 

The presence of wallabies and possums means that the native forest cannot thrive as these introduced pests browse on seedlings and plants, destroying potential habitats and food sources for indigenous species. 

After years of planning and preparation, the project began in early May 2025.

Working towards a pest-free Kawau Island, is a ground-based operation to remove wallabies and possums and is primarily being carried out by hunters using trained indicator dogs and thermal drones, supported using toxins (1080 and Feratox) in areas where the monitoring network has revealed higher numbers of wallabies and possums are present.  

The next treatment area for the toxins is located on private land in the southern sector of the island (excludes residential areas and Public Conservation Land) and will be fenced and monitored.

You can read more on OurAuckland.

Important information

  • Safety is of utmost importance to us. Working towards a pest-free Kawau Island is underpinned by strict public health conditions from the National Public Health Service – Northern Region Auckland and robust health and safety precautions will be undertaken.
  • However, 1080 is a toxin that can be deadly to people and dogs. Small quantities of 1080 gel are lethal if eaten or swallowed. 
  • Visitors and residents of Kawau Island must stay out of areas with toxic bait and avoid all contact with baits. 
  • Anyone who consumes any of the toxic baits should call 111 immediately and contact the Poisons Centre for advice while waiting for emergency services. 
  • Dogs are highly susceptible to 1080 poisoning if they consume baits or scavenge carcasses.
  • To keep dogs safe, visitors should avoid taking dogs to the island during the operational period. 
  • Residents should keep dogs on a leash and closely supervised at all times, especially in the southern sector of the island. If you suspect your dog has been poisoned, induce vomiting and immediately go to a vet. 
  • We have been working with Warkworth Vets, and the team are ready to treat any dogs brought in, if needed. Muzzles and emetic medication are available from Warkworth Vets for landowners and residents of Kawau Island, free of charge. 
  • As per our permit conditions, there will be a six-month caution period. Uneaten foliage bait will be removed within 14 days of deployment, and soluble cereal bait will readily breakdown. However, secondary poisoning remains a risk for dogs during the six-month caution period.
  • Signage will remain during this time, and all residents and visitors to the island must follow all instructions from the council and its teams during this time. 

For more information on the Kawau Island restoration project, including FAQs and further factsheets, please visit our website or phone us on 09 301 0101. To support this project and ongoing conservation efforts, visit New Zealand Nature Fund.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/pest-eradication-on-kawau-island-resumes/

Posted on

Progress sails on new Chatham Islands ship

Source: New Zealand Government

The procurement of a new Chatham Islands supply vessel has hit another major milestone with the signing of a ship delivery agreement, paving the way for its construction to begin.

Associate Transport Minister James Meager says the milestone ensures the 77-metre-long vessel’s delivery by the end of 2027, ahead of the current Southern Tiare ship’s retirement.

“The vessel is an economic and community lifeline for the Chatham Islands. The new ship meets locals’ needs and ensures a reliable, long-term service which can be scaled up to grow alongside the Chathams over the next 20 years,” Mr Meager says.

“The ship, which will be bigger than the nearly 40-year-old Southern Tiare, has been designed to cover all freight requirements. This includes the ability to carry livestock, fuel, vehicles, general and bulk freight.

“This increase in capacity and service reliability will strengthen sectors such as fishing, farming and tourism. Importantly, it provides certainty to businesses and the community.”

The contract with 44 South Shipping Limited Partnership, the joint venture of McCallum Bros Ltd and Nova Marine Carriers, follows last year’s preferred supplier decision.

“I want to thank the Chatham Islands community for its patience and cooperation throughout this process. With negotiations concluded, we now have certainty around cost, delivery timeframes, and performance expectations,” Mr Meager says.

“With this agreement, we have secured reliable and affordable shipping services between the Chatham Islands and mainland New Zealand for the coming decades.

“This is a great outcome for the people in our most remote community, and is another example of our commitment to fixing the basics and building the future.”

Notes to Editor:

  • The Government began a procurement process in March 2025. It selected the joint venture involving McCallum Bros Ltd and Nova Marine Carriers SA (44 South Shipping Limited Partnership) as the preferred supplier in September 2025.
  • The Crown is funding $24.3 million towards the cost of the new vessel. The ship’s total cost is commercially sensitive.
  • The new ship’s length was previously reported to be 78 metres. This has now been confirmed to be 77 metres, following the vessel’s design finalisation.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/progress-sails-on-new-chatham-islands-ship/

Posted on

PAObank Unveils New Wealth Service, Unlock the Power of a Dual-Advantage Wealth Management Model, Flexibly SWITCH Between Investment and Deposits

Source: Media Outreach

16-Hour U.S. Stock Trading Session*, Money Market Funds with T+0 Settlement

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – PAO Bank Limited (“PAObank”) is pleased to announce the official launch of wealth service, debuting a dual-advantage wealth solution. This service empowers customers to flexibly switch between investing or earning interest, offering unmatched flexibility and control over their finances. The wealth service combines the agility of a brokerage with the security of a bank, enabling customers to seamlessly manage investments, insurance, deposits, and more through a single account. Customers can flexibly allocate funds and trade a wide range of products, including U.S. stocks, Hong Kong stocks, funds and money market funds, at any time.

PAObank’s existing retail banking customers can open an investment account in as fast as 3 minutes, while new customers can open both savings and investment accounts in one-go, greatly simplifying the onboarding process. Customers can instantly deploy funds from their savings account to purchase stocks and funds directly, without the need for additional transfers. Investment returns can be credited back into the savings account to earn interest, supporting both the pursuit of timely market opportunities and steady interest income, all within one single PAObank account.

Mr. Ronald Iu, Chief Executive of PAObank, said, “The launch of wealth service marks a significant milestone in PAObank’s retail banking development. Retail banking at PAObank is rooted in user-friendliness. Our team believes that if we can save each customer one single step, we collectively save 10,000 steps for 10,000 customers. The design of our wealth service is customer-centric — streamlining procedures and eliminating unnecessary fund transfers, allowing customers to SWITCH flexibly between investment and deposit services. We will continue to upgrade our retail banking services, striving to become one of Ping An Group’s integrated financial platforms in Hong Kong, delivering a more comprehensive and user-friendly wealth management experience, and being recognised as the preferred digital bank in the minds of customers.”

U.S. & Hong Kong Stocks Trading: Broker-LevelAnalytics Tools forCapturing Opportunities
PAObank’s wealth service offers broker-level professional analytics tools, providing comprehensive insights from macro market trends to detailed stock information to help customers seize every investment opportunity. Key features include:

Online Brokerage-Grade Analytics Tools & Indicators:

  • 40+ Technical Indicators: Multi-angle market analysis, covering company performance, market trends, stock price movements, and peer comparisons to support deeper investment insights and discover potential opportunities.
  • Free Level 1 Real-Time Quotes: Instant access to real-time indices and quotes, enabling customers to make informed decisions and act quickly.
  • Industry Heatmap & Real-Time Trading Rankings: Intuitive visualisations of industry momentum and real-time rankings of active stocks, helping customers track market hotspots and pinpoint focus stocks with ease.

Flexible Trading Capabilities:

  • Up to 16Hours of U.S. Stock Trading Sessions: Trade U.S. stocks day and night to maximise market opportunities, with flexible pre-market and after-hour trading sessions in response to major news or unexpected events.
  • Unlimited 24-hour Real-Time Quotes: Access the latest market information around the clock.
  • Multiple Order Types: Support for limit orders, stop-limit orders and more, empowering customers to respond flexibly to market volatility.

Money Market Funds: T+0 Settlement, $0 Subscription & Redemption Fees, Same-Day Liquidity
PAObank’s money market funds offer a reliable and flexible way for cash management solutions, offering customers a stable and adaptable platform for capital growth. These funds primarily invest in short-term deposits and high-quality money market instruments, targeting lower risk and stable returns. Featuring: “T+0” same-day settlement, $0 subscription & redemption fees, low entry threshold, investors enjoy 24X7 access to subscriptions and redemptions, with proceeds credited to bank accounts as soon as the same day. Funds are available 365 days a year, enabling efficient and always-on cash management regardless of public holidays.

Curated Selection of Funds from Top-tier Global Fund Houses: Popular Thematic Rankings Including “Monthly Dividend Funds”
PAObank partners with leading global fund houses, including Ping An of China Asset Management (Hong Kong), Allianz Global Investors, Invesco, and Schroders, to curate nearly 60 global funds spanning popular themes such as technology, Asia and consumer sectors. The platform provides diverse, thematic fund rankings, including a dedicated “Monthly Dividend Funds” category tailored for dividend lovers. Transparent fund performance and data-driven analytics give customers the flexibility to adjust their portfolios in response to market trends, seizing global investment opportunities with ease.

*U.S. market trading sessions are based on Hong Kong time:
Summer time – Pre-market: 16:00 – 21:30; Market opening: 21:30 – 04:00; After-hours: 04:00 – 08:00.
Winter time – Pre-market: 17:00 – 22:30; Market opening: 22:30 – 05:00; After-hours: 05:00 – 09:00.
Total trading hours are 16 hours.

Investment involves risk. The price of investments fluctuates, sometimes dramatically. The price of investments may move up or down, and may become valueless. There is an inherent risk that losses may be incurred rather than profit made as a result of buying and selling investment products. Foreign investments carry additional risks not generally associated with the domestic market. You should carefully consider whether any investment products or services mentioned herein are appropriate for you in view of your investment experience, objectives, financial resources and circumstances.

Hashtag: #PAObank #Wealth #WealthService #Stocks #Funds

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/paobank-unveils-new-wealth-service-unlock-the-power-of-a-dual-advantage-wealth-management-model-flexibly-switch-between-investment-and-deposits/

Posted on

World Wildlife Day: Medicinal and aromatic plants.

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on 3 March to celebrate and raise awareness about wild animals and plants. This year, the focus is on medicinal and aromatic plants. 

Today is World Wildlife Day

The date was chosen because the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was signed on 3 March 1973. This global agreement uses permits to control the international trade of wild plants and animals, making sure it is legal and sustainable. 

Which New Zealand native plants have medicinal or aromatic properties?

New Zealand has many native medicinal plants (rongoā) such as kawakawa, mānuka, horopito, kūmarahou, harakeke, kōhūhū, hoheria and tōtara. We also have several aromatic native plants, including tarata (lemonwood), kānuka, mānuka, kopoti, kohukohu, fragrant hebe, and Olearia (tree daisy) species. 

These plants are increasingly used in local skincare products.  Kawakawa balm is popular for eczema and sensitive skin, and kūmarahou is valued for its natural, soap-like cleansing properties. 

Most of New Zealand’s medicinal and aromatic plants are not protected under CITES, because they are not currently threatened by international trade.

Kawakawa plant – Herb, Christophers

Which New Zealand Native plants are protected by CITES?

The only New Zealand native plants protected under CITES are orchids and tree ferns. The whole orchid family (Orchidaceae) and the tree fern genus Cyathea are listed globally. 

New Zealand has 26 genera and 118 species of native orchids. Orchids are used in beauty and health products overseas, but native orchids are not commonly used this way in New Zealand. 

Thelymitra cyanea – Christopher, Stephens

Cyathea has over 450 species, with many globally threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and overuse for horticulture. In New Zealand, there are seven native and one introduced Cyathea species. Only two species, found only on Raoul Island, are classified as at risk. 

The black tree fern (mamaku, Cyathea medullaris) and the silver fern (ponga, punga, Cyathea dealbata) are the primary native Cyathea ferns used in rongoā. 

Cyathea medullaris – Jacqui, Geux

Some trade has occurred in these species: 

  • Cyathea dealbata has been exported as live plants and sometimes logs to the UK, Europe, and China. 
  • Cyathea medullaris has been exported as live plants, powdered trunks, and tissue extracts, mainly to Europe and Japan. Powdered trunks have been exported to French cosmetic companies for use as exfoliants, and small amounts of plant fluid extracts have more recently gone to Australia, China, and France for use in health supplements. 

These exports were managed under CITES regulations. 

What medicinal and aromatic species are listed under CITES internationally?

Many medicinal and aromatic plants listed globally under CITES are available in New Zealand. 

Medicinal plants: 

  • American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius): A North American plant – vulnerable to endangered, depending on the region. 
  • Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis): A vulnerable North American herb. 
  • Pygeum/African Cherry (Prunus africana): A vulnerable tree from central and southern Africa. 
  • Costus root (Saussurea costus):  Also known as Kuth or Aucklandia.  A critically endangered medicinal herb from the Himalayas. 
  • Dendrobium (Dendrobium):  A large genus of orchids, with many species used in traditional medicines.  At high risk because of habitat loss, climate change and illegal harvesting. 

Aromatic plants: 

Agarwood-producing species (Aquilaria): Trees from Southeast Asian rainforests that produce the fragrant resin agar (used in Oud perfume). Twenty-one species now classified from vulnerable to critically endangered. 

Panax quinquefolius (American Ginseng – Doug McGrady

” data-medium-file=”https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Panax-quinquefolius-American-ginseng-Kent-CT-by-Doug_McGrady-is-licensed-under-CC-BY-2.0.jpg?fit=300%2C225&ssl=1″ data-large-file=”https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Panax-quinquefolius-American-ginseng-Kent-CT-by-Doug_McGrady-is-licensed-under-CC-BY-2.0.jpg?fit=580%2C435&ssl=1″ role=”button” tabindex=”0″ aria-label=”Open image 1 of 2 in full-screen” srcset=”https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Panax-quinquefolius-American-ginseng-Kent-CT-by-Doug_McGrady-is-licensed-under-CC-BY-2.0.jpg?strip=info&w=600&ssl=1 600w,https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Panax-quinquefolius-American-ginseng-Kent-CT-by-Doug_McGrady-is-licensed-under-CC-BY-2.0.jpg?strip=info&w=900&ssl=1 900w,https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Panax-quinquefolius-American-ginseng-Kent-CT-by-Doug_McGrady-is-licensed-under-CC-BY-2.0.jpg?strip=info&w=1024&ssl=1 1024w” alt=”” data-height=”768″ data-id=”59295″ data-link=”https://blog.doc.govt.nz/?attachment_id=59295″ data-url=”https://blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Panax-quinquefolius-American-ginseng-Kent-CT-by-Doug_McGrady-is-licensed-under-CC-BY-2.0.jpg” data-width=”1024″ src=”https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Panax-quinquefolius-American-ginseng-Kent-CT-by-Doug_McGrady-is-licensed-under-CC-BY-2.0.jpg?ssl=1″ data-amp-layout=”responsive”/>

Saussurea costus, Vinayaraj

” data-medium-file=”https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0.jpg?fit=300%2C225&ssl=1″ data-large-file=”https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0.jpg?fit=580%2C435&ssl=1″ role=”button” tabindex=”0″ aria-label=”Open image 2 of 2 in full-screen” srcset=”https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0-1024×768.jpg?strip=info&w=600&ssl=1 600w,https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0-1024×768.jpg?strip=info&w=900&ssl=1 900w,https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0-1024×768.jpg?strip=info&w=1200&ssl=1 1200w,https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0-1024×768.jpg?strip=info&w=1500&ssl=1 1500w,https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0-1024×768.jpg?strip=info&w=1800&ssl=1 1800w,https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0-1024×768.jpg?strip=info&w=2000&ssl=1 2000w” alt=”” data-height=”2880″ data-id=”59296″ data-link=”https://blog.doc.govt.nz/?attachment_id=59296″ data-url=”https://blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0-1024×768.jpg” data-width=”3840″ src=”https://i0.wp.com/blog.doc.govt.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Saussurea_costus_Vinayaraj_CC_SA_4.0-1024×768.jpg?ssl=1″ data-amp-layout=”responsive”/>

What can we do for World Wildlife Day?

Support our native medicinal and aromatic plants so they aren’t over-harvested, as has happened to many species overseas.  

  • Buy beauty and health products from trustworthy sources to make sure ingredients are collected responsibly.  
  • Check permit requirements when bringing or taking any CITES protected products across international borders. 

Find out more about CITES 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/world-wildlife-day-medicinal-and-aromatic-plants/

Posted on

Smart Design Global Awards 2026 Call for Final Applications Introducing Dual Incentive Scheme to Empower Local Talents to Go Global

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – The “Hong Kong Smart Design Awards” has officially been renamed “Smart Design Global” (SDG), marking a new start to Hong Kong’s annual flagship design event as it enters its fifteenth year running. The name change signifies the convergence of local design talents, with the competition serving as a gateway to the world. Organised by the Hong Kong Exporters’ Association and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the program has been instrumental in taking Hong Kong’s original design global since its inception in 2012.

This year’s rebranding represents a strategic transformation to further establish a holistic design ecosystem, with the goal to shape creativity as a new economic driver for Hong Kong. SDG will implement an incentive scheme which merges creativity with business to help winners connect with international markets. The program will consist of two key phases: the “Smart Design Global Awards 2026” competition, followed by a series of overseas trade shows.

Upgraded Perks: Shortlisted Participants to Secure Exhibition Spots

This year’s “Smart Design Global” comes with an upgraded suite of rewards for participants, and particularly those who qualify for the Corporate Group in order to reward SMEs and local designers that invest in creativity. All shortlisted participants will be allocated a dedicated display space at the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, where they can showcase their competition entries and other company products. This provides a comprehensive platform for participants to interact with thousands of international buyers, boosting brand exposure and fostering collaboration. The final judging will also take place on the first day of the Gifts & Premium Fair, allowing participants to present their design concepts directly to the jury panel. This face-to-face interaction enables contestants to gather professional feedback and gain deeper insights into their product’s strengths and weaknesses.

Furthermore, award winners will be given the opportunity to take their winning products abroad for touring exhibitions. By taking part in major global trade shows, homegrown designs will shine on an international stage. The SDG Awards also offers a prototype subsidy, which grants crucial early-stage funding to help top winners transform innovative concepts into market-ready products for the world, maximizing value for all participants who enter.

Four Categories: Showcasing Hong Kong’s Unique Charm

“Smart Design Global Awards 2026” is now open for application. This edition focuses not only on the aesthetic appeal of products, but also the market potential, calling for entries from innovative products across four categories:

  • Live: Designs that elevate living spaces and personal style, such as distinctive furniture and home décor.
  • Dine: Kitchen innovations, tableware, and dining decorations that redefine culinary aesthetics and experience.
  • Gift: Exquisite, personalized gifts designed to create lasting memories, including festive products, personal collectibles, and corporate gifts.
  • Play: Nostalgic recreational items or educational games with pedagogical design, such as figures, STEM games, and cross-generational collectibles.
Seize the final chance to showcase unique designs to the world. For detailed information on entry requirements, judging criteria, and registration for “Smart Design Global Awards 2026”, please visit the official website: https://www.sdawards.org.hk.
Smart Design Global 2026 Submission Details
Corporate Group
Application Deadline: 10 March 2026 (Tues)
Application Fee: HK$600 per product category
Exhibition Fee*: HK$3,500 per product category
Conceptual Group
Application Deadline: 10 March 2026 (Tues)
Application Fee: HK$300 per product category (Waived for students)
Exhibition Fee*: Waived

* Shortlisted entries will enjoy an HK$600 registration fee waiver, bringing the actual exhibition fee to HK$2,900.
**For details, please visit the Smart Design Global website: https://www.sdawards.org.hk

https://www.sdawards.org.hk
https://www.facebook.com/SDG2026/
https://www.instagram.com/smart.design.global

Hashtag: #HongKongSmartDesignAwards #SmartDesignGlobal #SDG

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/smart-design-global-awards-2026-call-for-final-applications-introducing-dual-incentive-scheme-to-empower-local-talents-to-go-global/

Posted on

Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary: MemeStrategy (HKEX:2440) Launches World’s First Tokenized Collectible Card Fund

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 — MemeStrategy, Inc. (“MemeStrategy” or “the Company”; HKEX: 2440), an Asia-based publicly listed digital asset company, today announced the launch of the world’s first tokenized Pokémon trading card fund (the “Fund”). The Fund is designed to offer professional investors institutional-level access to the collectible trading card market through EVIDENT Platform Services Limited (“EVIDENT”), a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform, marking a significant step in establishing trading cards as a recognized alternative asset class. Scheduled to launch during the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise, the Fund represents a unique initiative that bridges culturally iconic collectibles with traditional institutional-level financial services.

A Booming, Multi-Billion Dollar Market

This February, a PSA 10 “Pikachu Illustrator” card, widely regarded as the holy grail of Pokémon cards and previously owned by internationally renowned influencer Logan Paul, achieved a record-breaking auction price of USD 16.492 million (approximately HKD 128 million). This sale surpassed the previous record for the most expensive sports card, the one-of-one dual-signed Logoman card featuring NBA legends Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. The event brought the global spotlight back onto collectible cards and underscored the growing cultural and collector interest in high-end trading cards.

The global collectibles market is projected to reach USD 628 billion by 2031, with the Asia Pacific region demonstrating particularly rapid growth momentum.[1] Within this market, the collectible card games segment is expected to reach USD 37.42 billion by 2034, rising from a projected USD 14.7 billion in 2025.[2] This expansion is driven by increased participation from digital native consumers and heightened institutional attention towards alternative assets. This surge also reflects a broader cultural shift among younger generations, who are increasingly engaging and investing in alternative cultural assets.

Among trading cards, Pokémon cards hold a distinguished position in the collector community. They are viewed not merely as game cards, but also as culturally significant assets supported by active secondary markets and well-established collectible value. According to reports from The Wall Street Journal and historical data from the authoritative platform CARD LADDER[3], Pokémon card values have exhibited long-term appreciation of more than 30x over the past 20 years, reinforcing their status as a resilient alternative asset class.

Crossing the Chasm, Moving Towards Institutional-Level Collection Investment

Although the trading card market presents substantial growth, direct participation by professional and institutional investors has historically been limited due to several structural challenges, including:

  1. Authentication Risks: Concerns over asset provenance and widespread presence of counterfeits remain major deterrents for institutional-grade capital.
  2. Custody Complexities: The high cost and operational difficulty of museum-grade physical storage, including security, insurance and climate-controlled facilities, make proper custody prohibitively expensive and operationally burdensome.
  3. Market Fragmentation: A highly fragmented secondary market, dispersed inventory, and inconsistent sourcing channels make it difficult to acquire curated collections in bulk from reliable counterparties.

In view of this, MemeStrategy aims to deliver a comprehensive, institutional-ready one-stop solution. By launching the Fund through a publicly listed company platform and partnering with a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform, vault custodians supported by a professional third-party, and independent auditors and certifiers, MemeStrategy seeks to establish a robust, transparent, and institutional-level framework for professional investors to access the emerging cultural-asset market.

“Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat”: A Flagship Cultural Asset with Institutional Provenance

The Fund’s portfolio is anchored around a leading Pokémon card: the PSA 10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” card. Created through an official cross‑disciplinary collaboration between The Pokémon Company and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the card draws inspiration from Van Gogh’s iconic “Self‑Portrait with Grey Felt Hat.” It represents a rare convergence of the world’s highest-grossing entertainment franchise and a globally renowned fine art institution.

Widely recognized as one of the most prominent Pokémon cards worldwide, the PSA 10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” is estimated to have a total market capitalization of over USD 94 million.

In light of its prominence and established market status, the Fund aims to acquire exposure representing approximately 25% of the PSA10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” cards currently available in the market, underscoring its strategic focus on this key asset. This positioning is supported by the following characteristics:

  • Appreciation: Secondary market prices for the card have risen more than 400% since its limited release in late 2023, based on publicly available historical data[4].
  • Scarcity: The Pokémon–museum collaboration was a time-limited initiative that concluded earlier than planned due to overwhelming demand. With a PSA 10 population of approximately 47,000[5] cards now permanently capped, its rarity is firmly established.
  • Authenticity and Grade Assurance: All cards held by the Fund undergo expert verification and are PSA 10 graded, consistent with market-recognized standards for condition and authenticity.


An Institutional-Level Infrastructure for a New Asset Class

Building on its focus on flagship cultural assets, MemeStrategy complements the Fund’s portfolio construction with an institutional-grade operational framework. By partnering with EVIDENT, a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform through which tokenized interests in the Fund will be made available for professional investors, MemeStrategy aims to provide a secure, transparent and robust structure for accessing cultural-asset investment.

  • Institutional-Level Custody: All physical cards are authenticated, insured, and stored in a museum-grade environment with temperature control and 24-hour surveillance, operated by Grade10 Vault, the Company’s professional card-vaulting service.
  • Enhanced Accessibility: Tokenization facilitates primary transactions on a licensed and secure platform, enabling professional investors to access tokenized interests in the Fund with greater efficiency and transparency.
  • Independent Audits: All underlying assets are subject to biannual Proof-of-Reserve audits by Deloitte or another Big4 international audit firm, ensuring full transparency and independent verification of asset holdings.

Ray Chan, Chief Executive Officer of MemeStrategy, said, “This initiative is about harnessing the distinctive market dynamics of cultural assets through institutional-level financial rigor. The collectibles market is expanding rapidly, yet institutional participation has remained limited due to logistical and security barriers. We are solving that problem. For the first time, we are providing a convenient and secure structure that allows professional investors to engage in this growing market without the burdens of physical ownership. This reflects our core mission to bridge culture and capital by creating accessible structures for the professional market.”

Florian M. Spiegl, Founder & CEO of EVIDENT, said, “Collectibles represent one of the most compelling frontiers in alternative assets — a market with proven performance but, until now, without the infrastructure to serve institutional capital. This fund demonstrates exactly what EVIDENT’s platform is built to do: take high-conviction asset verticals and structure them to the highest regulatory and institutional-grade standards. From custody to compliance to secondary liquidity, every layer is designed for professional investors. As we continue to expand our asset base into new verticals, the standard remains the same: institutional rigor, full regulatory compliance, and market infrastructure that investors can trust.”

MemeStrategy will serve as the General Partner (GP) through its wholly owned subsidiary, RWA Labs Limited, and will also make a strategic investment as a Limited Partner (LP), reflecting its strong conviction in the long-term cultural significance and market relevance of cultural collectibles. By combining blockchain-enabled transparency with institutional-level real-world custodianship, MemeStrategy aims to help shape the evolution of how collectibles are valued and traded in the Web3 era, contributing to the development of a structured cultural-finance landscape.

Disclaimer: This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer or invitation to the public in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (“HKSAR”) to invest in the Fund or to acquire or subscribe for any securities or interests in any collective investment scheme. The Fund has not been authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission of HKSAR and is only available to “professional investors” (as defined in section 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 to the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571)). This announcement is not intended for distribution to, or use by, any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to local law or regulation.

https://memestrategy.com.hk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/memestrategy/
https://x.com/MemeStrategy
https://www.facebook.com/grade10hk/
https://www.instagram.com/grade10hk/

Hashtag: #MemeStrategy #Grade10 #EVIDENT #Culture #Collectibles #Pokémon #TradingCards #TokenizedFund #AlternativeInvestment #AlternativeAssets

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/pokemons-30th-anniversary-memestrategy-hkex2440-launches-worlds-first-tokenized-collectible-card-fund/

Posted on

Desert Diamond Hues Take Centre Stage On The Red Carpet At The 79th British Academy Film Awards

Source: Media Outreach

LONDON, UK – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – At this year’s British Academy Film Awards, the red carpet was illuminated with natural diamonds worn by some of the acting world’s most beloved stars, with Desert diamonds reigning supreme.

Desert diamond hues take centre stage on the red carpet at the 79th British Academy Film Awards. From top left to bottom right: Nathalie Emmanuel, Gillian Anderson, Archie Madekwe, Audrey Nuna, Regé-Jean Page

In evocative shades of champagne, honey, cognac, brown, and whiskey, these unique colours were seen on some of our most beloved actors and actresses- showcased in an exquisite array of cuts and designs, they blended timeless elegance with contemporary style.

Gillian Anderson, together with Nathalie Emmanuel, led the Desert diamond way with striking diamonds by Brazilian jeweller Ara Vartanian. Gillian woreasymmetric stone earrings featuring exceptional brown and white diamonds with complementing rings, whilst Nathalie wore an elongated drop earrings punctuated with brown diamonds, a bracelet and rings. K-Pop Demon Hunter star Audrey Nuna wore Desert diamond ear climbers from ANANYA.

Once reserved for jewellery boxes, brooches have become a go-to on the red carpet amongst the most decerning of wearers- Rising Star nominee Archie Madekwe paired his custom Dior suit with Ara Vartanian white diamond brooch and Desert diamond vintage rings whilst Regé-Jean Page looked to fauna as his inspiration in a Desert diamond dragonfly brooch by Hirsh London.

Poppy Delevingne attended the British Vogue and GǪ Fashion and Film Party adorned in Desert diamonds by Ara Vartanian

Actress and Model Poppy Delevingne attended the British Vogue and GǪ Fashion and Film Party adorned in Desert diamonds by Ara Vartanian.

For the occasion, Poppy chose to wear a curated selection of pieces in Desert diamond hues, included a striking necklace from the new Empirea collection, set with 17.34 carats of brown diamonds.

These extraordinary moments on the red carpet remind us that natural diamonds are born of the wild, their enduring beauty and unique nature express both style and glamour, as well as timelessness and cultural legacy.

#adiamondisforever #naturaldiamonds #diamonds #BAFTA #DesertDiamonds

https://www.debeersgroup.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/debeersgroup/posts/?feedView=all
https://www.facebook.com/DeBeersGroupOfCompanies
https://www.instagram.com/debeersgroup/

Hashtag: #DeBeersGroup #NaturalDiamonds #diamonds #Desertdiamonds #BAFTA #adiamondisforever

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/desert-diamond-hues-take-centre-stage-on-the-red-carpet-at-the-79th-british-academy-film-awards/

Posted on

NZ Government Statement on Iran

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand has consistently condemned Iran’s nuclear programme, its destabilising activities in the region and elsewhere, and its repression of its own people. 

Iran has, for decades, defied the will and expectations of the international community. The legitimacy of a government rests on the support of its people. The Iranian regime has long since lost that support.

In this context, we acknowledge that the actions taken overnight by the US and Israel were designed to prevent Iran from continuing to threaten international peace and security.  

We condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s indiscriminate retaliatory attacks on Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan.  We cannot risk further regional escalation, and civilian life must be protected.   

We join the international community in hoping this crisis ends as quickly as possible.

We call for a resumption of negotiations and adherence to international law – and we urge the Iranian leadership to seek a negotiated solution that returns Iran to the community of nations. 

Our thoughts go out to all those affected by the conflict, and to the New Zealand families who are understandably worried about their loved ones in the region. 

We recognise too the courage of the Iranian people who have taken to the streets in recent weeks to demand change, only to be met by violence and murder.  The Iranian people must be allowed to determine their future.

New Zealand Embassies in the region are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to provide support to New Zealanders.  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises New Zealanders in the region to shelter in place.  New Zealanders should follow the advice of local authorities and register on SafeTravel. 

New Zealanders requiring urgent consular assistance should call the New Zealand 24/7 Consular Emergency Line on +64 99 20 20 20.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/01/nz-government-statement-on-iran/

Posted on

Alibaba Cloud Drives a More Sustainable, Efficient and Intelligent Olympic Experience at Milano Cortina 2026

Source: Media Outreach

  • Transportation Management System mobilizes over 80,000 Olympic stakeholders
  • Media Rights Rights Holders had access to 4,198 video highlights produced by Alibaba Cloud’s Real-Time 360º Replay systems
  • Qwen models power first use of LLM Technologies supporting fan engagement and Olympics ecosystem

MILAN, ITALY – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – In a ongoing effort to redefine the digital landscape of the Olympic Movement, Alibaba Group, the Worldwide TOP Partner of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has supported the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 (Milano Cortina 2026) in becoming the most intelligent Games in Olympic history.

Through a suite of advanced cloud and AI-driven solutions, Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, is empowering the IOC and the Milano Cortina local organizing committee to monitor and manage energy consumption, optimize transportation systems, enhance broadcasting operations, and foster IOC’s first use of LLM technology.

Kirsty Coventry, International Olympic Committee President, said: “Every Olympic Games leaves its own mark in terms of technological innovation. With Alibaba’s Cloud technologies and Qwen models, these Games have set a new benchmark for intelligence and creativity.”

Dr. Feifei Li, Senior Vice President of Alibaba Cloud Intelligence Group, President of International Business, said: “Milano Cortina 2026 marks a milestone with the first use of LLM technologies in the Olympic history powered by Alibaba’s Qwen models. Our cloud and AI-powered systems that supported Milano Cortina 2026 demonstrate our dedication to enabling smarter operations, deeper engagement, and new possibilities for the Olympic Movement.”

Sustainability successes

Alibaba Cloud’s AI-driven sustainability solutions and energy-efficient cloud infrastructure enabled Milano Cortina 2026 to effectively measure and analyze carbon emissions. This move sets a scalable model for future host cities to deliver more energy-efficient and carbon-saving Olympic Games.

Key systems developed and deployed include:

  • Enhanced Energy Data Management System deployed across all competition venues, allowing the Milano Cortina 2026 Organizing Committee and the IOC to monitor and analyse energy consumption and carbon emissions in real time. The IOC is also testing the Intelligent chatbot powered by Alibaba’s Qwen large language models, which enables staff to access both historical and real-time insights on electricity usage and power demand contingency.
  • Energy Issue Tracking System that digitalise workflows for identifying, escalating, and resolving energy anomalies, ensuring rapid responses and improving operational efficiency.
  • Codeveloped Sustainability Platform that allows organisers to assess the full lifecycle footprint of Milano Cortina 2026, with a dedicated focus on generating long-term benefits for local communities.

Accelerating efficiency

Drawing on iconic, world-class winter sports venues, Milano Cortina 2026 unfolded across more than 22,000 square kilometres of northern Italy’s alpine mountains and historic cities. Milano Cortina 2026 marked the Winter Games with the widest geographical spread in Olympic history. Spanning tens of thousands of square kilometres across the Alps, the event utilized Alibaba Cloud’s systems to assist game judging, coordinate logistics and operations, ensuring the Games ran smoothly and efficiently.

The IOC has worked with Alibaba Cloud to debut a sophisticated Video Adjudication system for the Milano Cortina 2026. Built on Alibaba Cloud’s low-latency livestreaming technology, this solution has been integrated into the core competition infrastructure to improve officiating precision. By synchronized management of multi-signal video feeds, the system assists referees in identifying fouls and provides instant arbitration playback to resolve scoring disputes. The technology has been deployed in Freestyle Skiing and Snowboard Slopestyle events to ensure accuracy for the judging panel.

The Transportation Management System (TMS), built on Alibaba Cloud, seamlessly connected venues across vast distances and delivered precise mobility assurance for Olympic stakeholders including IOC staff, athletes, volunteers, media and key personnel. Through the Milano Cortina 2026 Transport App and related system services, athletes and Olympic staff accessed personalised journey planning and real-time updates via connected official transport services. Throughout the Games, the app has mobilized over 80,000 individuals.

Other operational service applications — from e-voucher system supplying meals to tens of thousands of Olympic stakeholders, to meteorological service portal providing real-time weather information for Milano Cortina Organizing Committee to ensure the safety of outdoor competitions — also ran on Alibaba Cloud’s stable and resilient infrastructure.

In addition, the cloud provider’s Apsara Video technology has powered cloud-based live streaming and broadcasting for Milano Cortina 2026, enabling global media access to press conferences, IOC daily briefings, and post-competition athlete interviews in real time. This fully cloud-hosted Game Video Content Distribution service supported journalists with seamless video processing, editing, live and on-demand distribution, and secure download capabilities — all delivered through Alibaba Cloud’s resilient infrastructure.

An AI makeover on Olympic Tradition

Alibaba Cloud introduced an “Intelligent Pin Trading Station” in the Milano Olympic Village, adding an AI-enabled twist to one of the Games’ most cherished traditions.

Powered by Alibaba’s Qwen model, the station combines embodied devices with an AI system capable of understanding both language and visuals. Athletes place a pin into a capsule and interact naturally using voice and gestures. The AI interprets commands in real-time and guides a robotic arm to select a pin left by a previous participant. The result is a playful exchange that connects athletes through a tradition they already love, while broadening the range of people, countries, and stories represented in each trade.

The Intelligent Pin Trading Station demonstrates how cloud-based AI can support new forms of engagement—creating small moments of delight that encourage connection and discovery. Throughout the Games, Alibaba Cloud Intelligent Pin Station facilitated over 8,000 pin exchanges among athletes.

Intelligent by design

At Milano Cortina 2026, Alibaba Cloud’s Qwen large language models powered the first use of LLM technologies in Olympic history, advancing the IOC’s digital transformation and delivering a smarter, more connected Games. Qwen supported a range of applications, from enhancing global fan engagement to streamlining information management and operations across the Olympic ecosystem.

Key platforms — including the Olympic AI Assistant, NOC AI Assistant, and the Sports AI Platform — used Alibaba Cloud’s infrastructure to enable multilingual fan interactions, intelligent content search, and largescale media management. Collectively, these AI-driven systems set new benchmarks for accessibility, efficiency, and intelligence within the Olympic environment.

Broadcasting redefined

In broadcasting, the OBS Live Cloud Platform, powered by Alibaba Cloud, transformed how the Olympic Games were produced and delivered. Replacing traditional satellite operations, the cloud-based platform provided flexible, scalable, and high-quality content distribution of 442 live video feeds for 42 broadcasters worldwide.

Cloud broadcasting significantly reduces the physical footprint. Milano Cortina 2026’s International Broadcasting Centre was 25% smaller than Beijing 2022 and 30% smaller than Pyeongchang 2018.

Complementing this were advanced AI solutions such as the Real-Time 360º Replay systems and the Qwen-powered Automatic Media Description System (AMD). Together, these innovations modernised live production workflows, improved media turnaround speed, and set a new standard for intelligent broadcasting in the Olympic Movement. Throughout the Milano Cortina 2026, AMD has processed livestream signals of 391 competition sessions; meanwhile, Media Rights Holders (MRHs) had access to 4,198 video highlights of exciting moments from the competitions, all captured and produced by Alibaba Cloud’s Real-Time 360º Replay systems.

Through its longstanding collaboration with the IOC, Alibaba Cloud continues to transform the Olympic Games, making them more sustainable, efficient, and intelligent for all participants and audiences worldwide.

Hashtag: #Alibaba

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/27/alibaba-cloud-drives-a-more-sustainable-efficient-and-intelligent-olympic-experience-at-milano-cortina-2026/

Posted on

ONYX Hospitality Group Marks 60 Years, Showcasing Asia-Pacific Hospitality Leadership at ITB Berlin 2026

Source: Media Outreach

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – ONYX Hospitality Group, a leading provider of hotel, resort, serviced apartment, and luxury residential management in the Asia-Pacific region, will participate in the world-renowned travel trade show, ITB Berlin 2026, held from 3–5 March 2026 at Messe Berlin (Hall 26, Booth 211).

OZO Chaweng Samui

This year’s presence is particularly significant as ONYX celebrates its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of shaping hospitality experiences across the region and reinforcing its long-standing reputation as a trusted name in Asian travel.

At the show, the company will focus on expanding strategic partnerships within the European market while showcasing its exceptional management capabilities through a portfolio of distinctive brands designed to deliver memorable experiences for both leisure and business travellers worldwide. ONYX remains committed to driving efficient results and sustainable growth for its partners in response to the evolving demands of modern travellers. Today’s guests are no longer simply looking for a spacious room or an attractive design; they seek accommodation that truly understands the context and purpose of their journey. This guest-centric mindset has always been at the heart of ONYX’s approach — shaping the development of its brands, the delivery of its services, and the thoughtful expansion of its portfolio to meet the needs of modern travellers.

Aligned with its strategic philosophy, “A Tailored Approach to Hospitality,” ONYX will highlight opportunities across the leisure and city break sectors, particularly in Thailand’s key destinations, while emphasising its consultancy-led approach to building mutually beneficial, long-term partnerships.

This strategy reflects Thailand’s strengths, especially Bangkok’s positioning as a regional travel hub, offering the perfect starting point for European travellers to plan a combined “City Break & Leisure” holiday. Visitors can immerse themselves in Bangkok’s vibrant lifestyle and cultural scene before easily connecting to a variety of iconic and beautiful Thai destinations. These include a one-hour flight to Samui or Phuket or a two-hour drive to Pattaya. This convenience and flexibility allow ONYX to deliver a true “City-to-Sea” experience that resonates with today’s travel trends focused on value, comfort and exploration.

Beyond geographical advantages, ONYX also leverages its deep regional expertise and international standards, using cultural insights and traveller behaviour as the foundation for designing experiences that meet a wide range of preferences. Guided by the principles of “Quality Partnership & Growth,” the group ensures high-quality, transparent growth, earning the trust of global partners through over six decades of operational excellence. This legacy is seamlessly integrated with modern service innovations.

At ITB Berlin, ONYX Hospitality Group will showcase several flagship properties that are popular with international travellers:

  • Amari Bangkok: A landmark hotel in the heart of Bangkok’s business and fashion district, surrounded by world-class shopping centres. It offers the ultimate “City Break” experience, upscale shopping, and versatile facilities for MICE groups and grand celebrations.
  • Amari Phuket: A romantic beachfront resort on Patong Bay, offering premium relaxation with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Featuring modern, private rooms, exceptional seaside dining, and a top-tier spa, it is an ideal destination for leisure getaways, honeymoons, and picturesque beach weddings.
  • Amari Pattaya: A premium resort catering to couples, families, and business events. Located in a tranquil area of Pattaya Bay yet close to the city’s vibrant scene, it features spacious grounds, a large pool with a kids’ water park, and modern meeting facilities—making it suitable for holidays and special beachfront celebrations.
  • Amari Koh Samui: A beachside haven on the serene Chaweng Beach, where tropical beauty blends with contemporary design and international service standards. This resort appeals to all lifestyles, offering a relaxing seaside pool, the renowned Italian restaurant Prego, and family-friendly facilities amid the peaceful island atmosphere.
  • OZO Chaweng Samui: A modern lifestyle hotel on Chaweng’s prime beachfront, redefining relaxation under the brand’s concept “Sparking Adrenaline of Happiness.” Designed for new-generation travellers seeking both value and comfort, it focuses on providing a full, energising rest experience.

With its regional expertise and world-class standards, ONYX Hospitality Group continues to play a key role in driving the tourism industry forward, delivering memorable travel experiences to guests worldwide. As ONYX celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026, it remains committed to reinforcing its position as a trusted and thoughtful partner, backed by a track record of award-winning management and global recognition.

Through ITB Berlin, ONYX aims to deepen connections with strategic partners and support mutually beneficial growth worldwide.

For more information on ONYX Hospitality Group please visit: www.onyx-hospitality.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyx-hospitality-group/
https://www.facebook.com/ONYXHospitalityGroup
https://www.instagram.com/onyxhospitalitygroup/

Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup #ITBBerlin2026 #HospitalityIndustry #TravelTradeShow #AsiaPacificTravel

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/27/onyx-hospitality-group-marks-60-years-showcasing-asia-pacific-hospitality-leadership-at-itb-berlin-2026/

Posted on

XTransfer Receives Malaysia Central Bank’s Conditional Approval for Key Payment Licences

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2026 – XTransfer, the World’s Leading B2B Cross-Border Trade Payment Platform, is pleased to announce that it has received conditional approval from Bank Negara Malaysia(BNM) for key payment licences, including issuing electronic money, as well as a Money Services Business Licence (Class A) covering remittance and currency exchange.

XTransfer receives Malaysia Central Bank’s conditional approval for key payment licences.

Upon completing the pre-issuance conditions and being permitted to launch, XTransfer plans to introduce digital payment services in Malaysia designed to support businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) engaged in international trade. These services are intended to include streamlined onboarding, convenient funding options, efficient foreign exchange, and secure remittance and settlement experiences, with a focus on compliance, security, and operational reliability, helping Malaysian SMEs reduce friction in legitimate trade as they scale into regional and emerging-market corridors.

“Receiving conditional approval from Bank Negara Malaysia is an important milestone for XTransfer in the ASEAN region,” said Bill Deng, Founder and CEO of XTransfer. “We appreciate BNM’s guidance and oversight. We look forward to bringing Malaysian businesses compliant and efficient payment solutions that help trade move faster and more predictably, especially as intra-Asia and broader South–South trade routes continue to expand.

Malaysia is also central to XTransfer’s regional strategy, with a plan to establish Malaysia as its regional operational hub, serving as a strategic control centre within Southeast Asia, coordinating compliance, risk management, customer support, and global operations to ensure alignment with both local and Group-wide standards. “Malaysia gives us the talent, governance environment, and regional proximity to scaleacross the region,” Bill added.

Founded in 2017, XTransfer is dedicated to using technology to bridge large financial institutions and SMEs worldwide, providing secure, compliant, fast, convenient and low-cost cross-border trade payment and fund collection solutions. With more than 800,000 enterprise clients, XTransfer has become a global industry leader and continues to expand internationally to support trading companies worldwide.

https://www.xtransfer.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtransfer.cn
https://x.com/xtransferglobal
https://www.facebook.com/XTransferGlobal/
https://www.instagram.com/xtransfer.global

Hashtag: #XTransfer #PaymentLicense #Malaysia #BankNegaraMalaysia #Crossborder #SMEs

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/xtransfer-receives-malaysia-central-banks-conditional-approval-for-key-payment-licences/

Posted on

Hong Kong Tech Delegation Heading for Market Expansion at Mobile World Congress 2026

Source: Media Outreach

Debut at startup-centric zone 4YFN, Dual-presence at World Class Tech Exhibitions in Spain

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 February 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will lead a delegation of 21 Hong Kong tech companies and institutions to showcase at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026—the world’s premier connectivity event, and debut at 4 Years From Now (4YFN) 2026—a global stage for start-ups, taking place concurrently 2-5 March in Barcelona, Spain.

Building on the momentum from MWC 2025—the Delegation will be featuring solutions beyond the Connectivity category, covering focus areas across Devices and Systems, Digital Transformation and support from Ecosystem Partners. The Pavilion duet ought to give a more comprehensive picture of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology (I&T) capabilities in engaging global telecom leaders, enterprise decision-makers, industry partners, and investors, bridging cutting-edge research and development (R&D) into real-world applications and propelling Hong Kong’s I&T sector onto the international stage.

Derek Chim, Head of Startup Ecosystem and Development, HKSTP said, “MWC is a global bellwether for communications technology and tech companies at any stage, to connect with the industry and investors, to have a solid ground that validate solutions, catalyse pilot projects, accelerate commercialisation, and scale internationally.”

Iris Wong, Director, Merchandise Trade and Innovation / Director, External Relations, HKTDC, said, “The Hong Kong Tech Pavilion is an ideal platform for Hong Kong tech enterprises to present their latest R&D achievements at major international tech gatherings, support their journey to explore overseas markets, while highlighting Hong Kong’s strengths as an international innovation and technology hub.”

A series of dialogues and exchanges, spanning from networking reception and themed talks to pitching sessions, will take place throughout the events at the Pavilion to facilitate partnerships and investment opportunities for innovative solutions that are market-ready with high potential for market expansion, in particular, Asmote and Cresento under “Connectivity” make stellar examples of the notion:

  • 5G & 6G for Communication, Sensing, and AI computing – Shannon & Turing, (Asmote), located at MWC, specialises in mmWave technology for Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) technology—drone communications and control—rising to the occasion as the city advances its low-altitude economy initiatives, while winning favors for its efficiency in managing industrial scenarios such as smart ports and dark factories. The company previously secured the world’s first 26GHz mmWave 5G commercial communications project, demonstrating its leadership in industrial-grade applications.
  • Smart Performance Insights for Sport – Cresento, located at 4YFN, focused on developing an AI-powered shin guard to deliver real-time insights—performance analytics, team leaderboards, and more—with a design that incorporates into gears that athletes already wear and creates minimal friction for, in particular, football players to adapt, will be moving from prototypes to pilot collaborations with European football clubs, academies and sport tech platforms and distributors.

HKSTP continues to join hands with HKTDC to support Hong Kong tech enterprises to “go global” by jointly organising the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion to build bridges linking tech companies with the world. This expedites the industry’s progress in internationalisation to meet the growing demand for I&T globally. This will attract talents, facilitate forward-looking investments and explore opportunities globally, realising the mission of entrepreneurs to reach out to the world and further consolidate Hong Kong’s position as an international I&T hub.

Mobile World Congress Barcelona (MWC) & 4 Years From Now (4YFN)
Date: 2-5 March 2026
Venue: Fira Gran Via, Av. Joan Carles I, 64, 08908 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain

Hong Kong Tech Pavilion:
MWC – Booth 6E44 at Hall 6
4YFN – Booth 8.1B31 at Hall 8.1

Please visit https://bit.ly/MWC2026HKTech for more information on Hong Kong Tech Pavilion and the exhibitors.

Appendix: Full list of 21 tech entities showcasing at Hong Kong Tech Pavilion during MWC and 4YFN 2026 (in alphabetical order)

No. Name of Tech Company / Institution Category
MWC 2026 – Booth 6E44 at Hall 6
1 Entoptica Limited Devices & Systems
2 eSIX Connectivity
3 Faraconix Technologies Co., Ltd. Connectivity
4 FreightAmigo Services Limited Digital Transformation
5 Glassdio Scientific Company Limited Connectivity
6 Harvest Elite International Limited Digital Transformation
7 HongKong Umedia Limited Devices & Systems
8 iASPEC Services Limited Digital Transformation
9 InvestHK Ecosystem Partners
10 Robocore Technology Limited Devices & Systems
11 Shannon & Turing Technology Limited Connectivity
12 The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Ecosystem Partners
13 Xeroptix Technology Devices & Systems
4YFN 2026 – Booth 8.1B31 at Hall 8.1
14 AIGM Limited Digital Transformation
15 BWSea Technology (HK) Co., Limited Digital Transformation
16 Cresento Limited Devices & Systems
17 GoGoChart Technology Limited Digital Transformation
18 HairCoSys Limited Devices & Systems
19 KNQ Technology Limited Digital Transformation
20 Solos Technology Limited Devices & Systems
21 Vista Innotech Limited Devices & Systems

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/hong-kong-tech-delegation-heading-for-market-expansion-at-mobile-world-congress-2026/

Posted on

New Zealand announces more support for Ukraine, sanctions on Russia

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand will provide $8 million in new assistance for Ukraine and implement additional sanctions targeting Russia’s war machine, Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced.

 “Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion, now entering its fifth year, has devastated Ukraine, destabilised Europe and impacted the security of our own region,” Mr Peters says. 

 “Russia’s relentless bombardment of civilian infrastructure this winter has hit Ukraine’s people hard, and this assistance demonstrates New Zealand’s continued solidarity. 

 “These contributions will help address urgent needs as a result of Russia’s brutal winter attacks on Ukrainian civilians and energy infrastructure.”

New Zealand will provide $5 million in humanitarian assistance to international aid partners supporting Ukrainian civilians badly affected by the war. 

 This brings New Zealand’s total humanitarian assistance to Ukraine to $45 million over the past four years. 

 A further $3 million will go to the World Bank-administered Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund, which supports energy resilience and reconstruction. 

New Zealand is also implementing its 34th round of sanctions against Russia.

New measures include lowering the price cap on Russian crude oil and sanctioning 100 shadow fleet vessels.

“These are calculated steps to curtail crucial oil revenues fuelling Putin’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine,” Mr Peters says.

New Zealand has also sanctioned actors from Belarus, Iran, and North Korea, alongside alternative payment providers, malicious cyber actors, and those supporting Russia’s military‑industrial complex. 

More information about sanctions, travel bans, and export controls against Russia, as well as diplomatic, military and economic support to Ukraine, can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website here.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/new-zealand-announces-more-support-for-ukraine-sanctions-on-russia/

Posted on

Trad To Tech: Craftsmanship Growing Inside the Most Beautiful Homes as MIFF Leads the Way

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 February 2026 – At the Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF), a master craftsperson brings a solid wood tabletop to fruition, overseeing finish, joinery and the quiet patience required to get it right. Just steps away, a sleek, minimalist booth hums softly, where beds adjust at the touch of a button, sofas glide into position, mechanisms hidden so precisely they seem to disappear. There is no divide between old and new here.

Craftsman at work

Instead, MIFF, taking place from 4 to 7 March this year across two major venues at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) and World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL), unfolds like a conversation across generations, where chisels and circuit boards share the same floor. Here, traditional woodwork brands stand confidently beside smart home piece creators. It is in this unexpected harmony that MIFF reveals its true character: a place where craftsmanship has not been replaced by technology but expanded by it.

In today’s most beautiful homes, craftsmanship no longer belongs exclusively to the past. It lives quietly alongside technology—coded, calibrated, and refined—shaping furniture that feels both deeply human and unmistakably contemporary. At this year’s edition,this evolution takes center stage, positioning the fair not just as a trade marketplace, but as a living narrative of how tradition and innovation now coexist.

Ms Kelie Lim, General Manager of MIFF 2026, says, “Craftsmanship isn’t being lost to technology. It’s evolving, with technology now working alongside the maker rather than replacing the hand. At MIFF, this evolution plays out in real time—positioning the fair not just as a trade marketplace, but as a living narrative of how tradition and innovation now coexist.”

Craftsmanship in the 21st Century

In modern homes, where space is fluid and functionality is paramount, this new craftsmanship answers contemporary needs without sacrificing beauty. The result is furniture that works harder, lasts longer and feels effortless, an evolution of craft shaped by modern life.

This shift is evident in the work of manufacturers like, among others, SMART TOP, where advanced engineering meets refined furniture-making. Craftsmanship is expressed through precision mechanisms, seamless movement and invisible intelligence built into everyday living pieces. Automation does not replace skill; it amplifies it. Human expertise guides design, ergonomics and material selection, while technology ensures consistency, durability and scale.

Cultural Identity as a Design Constant

Yet, as technology advances, identity remains essential. Across Southeast Asia, furniture traditions are inseparable from cultural expression. You see them woven into motifs, proportions and materials passed down through generations. Among other exhibitors at MIFF 2026 are brands like TANGGAM that demonstrate how cultural heritage can remain a constant, even as production methods evolve.

TANGGAM’s work reflects a deep respect for regional craftsmanship, translating traditional forms and philosophies into contemporary furniture suited for global interiors. Subtle references to vernacular architecture, local materials and artisanal detailing are preserved, not through nostalgia, but through thoughtful reinterpretation. Here, technology becomes a bridge rather than a break. Digital tools allow heritage aesthetics to be refined, repeated and shared across markets, ensuring that cultural identity is not diluted by scale, but protected by it.

Embracing Tech to Preserve the Past

Perhaps nowhere is this balance more intimate than in the realm of rest. Sleep, one of the most personal human experiences, has become a new frontier for craft and technology.

Luxury Sleep exemplifies how advanced systems can preserve traditional values of comfort, care, and well-being.By integrating smart sleep technology like its AI BedMatch system developed with scientists at the Sleep to Live® Institute with meticulous material selection and ergonomic design, Luxury Sleep elevates an age-old craft into a future-ready experience. Sensors, adaptive support systems and data-driven comfort do not remove the human element; they respond to it. The craft lies in understanding the body, just as artisans once understood wood or fabric. Only now, the tools are digital.

MIFF 2026: Where Trad Meets Tech

What unites these stories is MIFF itself. In 2026, the fair emerges as a stage where craftsmanship is neither romanticised nor mechanised, but redefined. Exhibitors reflect a shared understanding: the future of furniture lies in collaboration, between hand and machine, heritage and innovation, culture and commerce.

MIFF 2026 is not simply showcasing products. It is presenting a philosophy of making, one where technology safeguards tradition, and craftsmanship evolves to meet the demands of modern living. Inside the world’s most beautiful homes, this new craft is already at work. And at MIFF, its future is being shaped.

The 32nd edition of the Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) 2026 will be held from 4 to 7 March 2026, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, across two venues: the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) and the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL). Be part of Southeast Asia’s largest furniture trade show from 9:30am to 6:00pm (March 4-6) and 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (March 7). For more information, please visit www.miff.com.my

For images, please click here.

http://www.miff.com.my/

Hashtag: #MIFF2026

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/23/trad-to-tech-craftsmanship-growing-inside-the-most-beautiful-homes-as-miff-leads-the-way/

Posted on

Electrical and mechanical machinery lead imports for year ended January 2026 – Overseas merchandise trade: January 2026 – Stats NZ news story and information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/21/electrical-and-mechanical-machinery-lead-imports-for-year-ended-january-2026-overseas-merchandise-trade-january-2026-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/

Posted on

Fonterra provides Farmgate Milk Price and earnings update

 Source: Fonterra

  • Fonterra expecting to distribute Mainland Group earnings as special Mainland dividend
  • Fonterra confirms FY26 forecast earnings guidance from continuing operations
  • Fonterra lifts 2025/26 season forecast Farmgate Milk Price midpoint from $9.00 per kgMS to $9.50 per kgMS

Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has today lifted its forecast Farmgate Milk Price for the 2025/26 season and narrowed its forecast range.
 
The midpoint has increased from $9.00 per kgMS to $9.50 per kgMS, with the forecast range lifting and narrowing from $8.50-$9.50 per kgMS to $9.20-$9.80 per kgMS.
 
CEO Miles Hurrell says the Co-op has been able to make these changes based on recent improvements in global commodity prices combined with Fonterra’s well contracted sales book.
 
“As we have seen, global dairy prices have been volatile across the season. Following the declines at the end of 2025, prices have lifted in the last four Global Dairy Trade events.
 
“Global milk production remains above seasonal norms, meaning the risk of further volatility in pricing remains. As such, we continue to take a balanced approach with our Farmgate Milk Price forecast.
 
“Our team is focused on enhancing returns for farmer shareholders through the Farmgate Milk Price and earnings, by delivering on our strategy,” says Mr Hurrell.
 
Update on Mainland Group earnings
 
Fonterra is today advising that it intends to pay out 100% of underlying earnings generated by Mainland Group during FY26 while still under Fonterra ownership.
 
The earnings will be distributed through a special Mainland dividend payment to shareholders and unit holders following the completion of the sale to Lactalis.
 
“We are currently finalising our interim accounts and can indicate that we expect the special Mainland dividend to be in the range of 14-18 cents per share, which reflects the operating performance of the Mainland business during the first half of this year driven by ongoing cost management and favourable input commodity prices.
 
“This remains subject to the settlement date of the transaction and the finalisation of our financial statements and audit process.
 
“Fonterra’s FY26 forecast earnings guidance from continuing operations remains unchanged at 45-65 cents per share. It is intended that Fonterra’s dividend policy will be applied to these continuing earnings.  
 
“Our interim dividend from continuing operations will be confirmed when we release our FY26 interim results and an update on the special Mainland dividend will be given at this time,” says Mr Hurrell.
 
As previously indicated, Fonterra expects the transaction to be complete in the first quarter of the 2026 calendar year, subject to separation of the businesses from Fonterra and remaining regulatory approvals being received.
 
About Fonterra  
 
Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer, foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities byDoing Good Together.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/fonterra-provides-farmgate-milk-price-and-earnings-update/

Posted on

Higher KiwiSaver contributions may mean lower pay rises

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ

You might be going to get a bigger contribution to your KiwiSaver this year – but will it be at the expense of your pay rise?

The first step in the increase in KiwiSaver contribution rates takes effect on April 1, for people who do not opt out.

The default rate rises to 3.5 percent from both employer and employee – so many employers will be contributing an amount equal to an additional 0.5 percent of their wage bill from that date.

This only applies for employers who have structured KiwiSaver contributions in the traditional way, where an employee contribution is matched by an employer contribution on top of their pay. People who are paid by total remuneration will have to cover the full increase themselves.

When the change was announced, Treasury said it expected 80 percent of the employer cost to be met by lower than expected pay rises.

Kelly Eckhold, chief economist at Westpac, said it was likely that all else being equal, pay rises this year would be lower.

“In the end, employers will pay a total level of remuneration in line with prevailing supply and demand trends in the market. Changing the allocation of what employees do with that remuneration is not likely to change that assessment. Having said this it will be impossible to know the counterfactual as we can only observe what employees are paid as opposed to what they might have been paid.”

Catherine Beard, director for advocacy at Business NZ, said businesses had to consider the total cost of employing someone.

“ACC charges, potentially fringe benefit tax, you’re going to have training costs, you might have uniforms… as someone who is hiring you think about what is the total cost to me and my business. So over time, any cost of employment does end up being factored into how much it costs to hire someone… superannuation KiwiSaver will be part of it.”

Apparel sector retailers example of hard times

Carolyn Young, chief executive of Retail NZ, said it was still a tough environment for retailers.

“Consider a retailer in maybe the apparel sector. They’ve been heavily hit over the last 12 months.

“Last year apparel monthly sales were down 5 percent in January, 9.1 percent in February, down 8.5 percent in March, down 7.8 percent in April, down 4.4 percent in May, down 1 percent in June… the whole year was really tough.

“They’re really running by the skin of their teeth – there’s no fat in the business… we do know that increasing KiwiSaver … is a place where as a country we need to head.

“The real difficulty is, it’s so challenging right now for retail to navigate increasing costs.”

She said until the economy clearly improved, the contribution increase was likely to mean smaller pay rises.

“It’s definitely a tricky time and definitely a space where employers will have to navigate their budgets really carefully around how they can recognise and reward staff alongside other increases that have been put in place.”

Craig Renney, who is Council of Trade Unions chief economist and policy director and also a Labour candidate in the upcoming election, said it was likely to mean that more low-income people opted out of KiwiSaver. “If you’re struggling with the cost of living, 1 percent on your salary is quite a lot.”

He said a better solution would be an Australia-style system where it was up to the employer to cover the cost of superannuation savings and employees who did not take it up missed out, rather than receiving it in their pay packets.

Meanwhile, a survey by ANZ showed a third of KiwiSaver members intended to stick with the new 3.5 percent default rate when it took effect. Another 21 percent would contirbute more if their employer matched it.

Only 10 percent intended to request a temporary reduction.

Sign up for Money with Susan Edmunds, a weekly newsletter covering all the things that affect how we make, spend and invest money.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/higher-kiwisaver-contributions-may-mean-lower-pay-rises/