- The 3rd InnoEX and 21st Spring Electronics Fair concluded successfully today, attracting some 88,000 buyers from 148 countries and regions.- One of the highlights of this year's InnoEX were the low-altitude economic solutions, which generated significant interest and attracted enquiries and business discussions from global buyers, including those from emerging markets.- Over half of InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair respondents intend to expand into emerging markets, including ASEAN, Mainland China and the Middle East.- 40% survey respondents at the Spring Electronics Fair expect their overall sales to increase in the next one to two years, while half of all respondents are confident that they can maintain the current level.HONG KONG, Apr 16, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The 3rd InnoEX, co-organised by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau of the HKSAR Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), alongside the 21st HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition), concluded successfully today. The four-day exhibitions attracted some 88,000 buyers from 148 countries and regions. Apart from local visitors, the fairs welcomed buyers mainly from Mainland China, India, Japan, Korea and Taiwan.Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said, “As the two core events of the Business of Innovation and Technology Week (BIT Week), InnoEX and the Spring Electronics Fair attracted some 88,000 visitors from Hong Kong, Mainland China and overseas. By showcasing the latest smart solutions and R&D achievements to international buyers, exhibitors initiated numerous regional business collaborations and discussions, while exploring new markets successfully. The exhibitions further advanced Hong Kong's development as an international I&T hub and reinforced its status as a global trade centre, demonstrating Hong Kong's advantages of connecting with both the Mainland and the world.”This year's InnoEX focused on five major technology areas, namely the low-altitude economy, AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and smart mobility, aiming to address pain points for both large and small and medium-sized enterprises and bring new development opportunities for them. Among the technology solutions, the low-altitude economy was particularly popular, attracting the attention of many buyers.InnoEX brought together the latest innovative R&D and solutions from around the world. The Smart Hong Kong Pavilion, set up by the Digital Policy Office, had over a hundred I&T achievements closely related to the lives of citizens, including I&T solutions from 20 government bureaux and departments, and award-winning solutions from multiple I&T competitions.In addition, there were multiple local pavilions, 17 pavilions from 16 provinces and municipalities in the Mainland, and overseas pavilions, including from Canada and the United Kingdom, the French 'So French So Innovative' pavilion, and the Smart Cities Council from Australia. The fair also attracted tertiary institutions and big companies which participated as independent exhibitors, including China Mobile Hong Kong, Huawei, IBM, and more. The exhibitors showcased their technological solutions in different fields and successfully attracted many buyers to discuss cooperation.Exhibitors expand into new markets while buyers actively sourceZeng Quanhong, Manager of Marketing Department, Vertaxi, stated that the company showcased its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft at InnoEX, establishing relationships with some 30 potential buyers from ASEAN, Canada, Europe, India, UAE, and Hong Kong. "InnoEX is a quality platform with high foot traffic which has broadened our horizons. For example, after communicating with buyers from Thailand, we learned that the aircraft could be applied to local tourism services in Thailand, helping us explore new markets. Our participation this year was very successful, and we will definitely return next year."Australian buyer Spacious Property Development Group (Spacious) looked for technologies that can help reduce hotel operating costs at InnoEX, and was particularly interested in automated delivery robots, cleaning robots, and vending machines offered by exhibitors from Mainland China and Hong Kong respectively. Angela Liang, Managing Director of Spacious, said, "InnoEX provided us with an excellent opportunity to introduce innovative technologies to the Australian market, especially now that the United States has increased tariffs, prompting suppliers around the world to actively explore other new markets."In addition, some exhibitors successfully established important partnerships through InnoEX. Among them, Philippine buyer Digital Pilipinas and International Digital Economies Association signed a distribution agreement with the United Kingdom’s exhibitor Unifi.id to introduce Unifi.id's smart card system for buildings to the Philippines, with hopes of expanding into other emerging markets in the future. Xi’an Meinan Biotechnology Co. Ltd also signed a strategic cooperation agreement with H & Y Building Decoration Electrical Engineering (HK). The partnership aims to enhance the quality of construction projects in Hong Kong and internationally by utilising Meinan’s waterproof mortar technology, promoting sustainable development.The Spring Electronics Fair showcased a variety of products, focusing on products and solutions in the fields of smart home, health tech and wearable devices and the exhibition attracted buyers from around the world and helped exhibitors expand into new markets. Many companies launched new products at the Electronics Fair, including Guangzhou’s Havit Technology, which introduced a hat with headphone functionality utilising air conduction technology and a patented design. Qingdao’s Thunderobot Technology, a subsidiary of Haier Group, made its debut in Asia outside of Mainland China with its smart glasses.At the fair, Shenzhen Antop Technology Co. from Mainland China, showcased air purifiers designed for households with pets. The company's International Business Development Manager, Bojia Yang, said, "In the past, the US market accounted for over 80% of our business. With the increase in US tariffs, we are actively expanding our global operations and exploring new markets, targeting Asia, Europe, and South America. We have made contact with many potential buyers from India and South America at the exhibition, and in the first two days, we received about 50 potential leads, with at least one third showing significant collaboration potential." The company is also discussing a contract for an order valued at approximately USD2.5 million.Additionally, Hong Kong medical technology exhibitor CYBERMED, is currently discussing business deals with two buyers from Mainland China and the Middle East, with each order valued at approximately USD200,000.American buyer DeWalt Mobile Solutions, which produces and sells mobile phone accessories, sourced products at Spring Electronics Fair. Its Director of International Operation, Danny Lo, said, "We are a leading brand in the US and plan to purchase products worth USD500,000 to USD1 million at the electronics fair. Face-to-face communication with suppliers during this crucial sourcing time and discuss business in response to the tariff situations with them was especially important for us."Four thematic days to explore the latest industry developments, with industry leaders sharing their insightsDuring InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair, several conferences and seminars focused on hot technology topics were held, including the Tech-Driven Industry and Economy Conference, powered by the HKSAR Government's Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, which brought together government officials from various countries and regions to discuss how policy measures can promote industrial development. Participants also shared successful policy measures and emerging trends in various countries.Talent is crucial to promoting the development of the I&T ecosystem and, this year, InnoEX and the Spring Electronics Fair jointly hosted “Exhibitors Meet Talents” to assist exhibitors in recruiting professionals and attract people who were interested in exploring job opportunities and engage with employers in the I&T industry.Half of respondents intend to expand into emerging marketsTo further understand the development trends of the I&T and electronics industries, HKTDC appointed an independent survey agency to interview 315 InnoEX and 642 Spring Electronics Fair exhibitors and buyers during the exhibitions. The key results are as follows:InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair- 50.7% of respondents from InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair expressed their intention to expand into emerging markets, including ASEAN countries, Mainland China and the Middle East.InnoEX- 33% of respondents believe that the greatest strength of Hong Kong's innovation and technology sector is its unique position as an intermediary between the world and Mainland China. This s followed by having a highly skilled and multicultural talent pool (25.1%) and a robust and efficient financial market (24.6%).- 68.8% of surveyed Hong Kong exhibitors believe that FinTech is the strongest and most advantageous field of I&T in Hong Kong, followed by Smart Cities (18.2%).Spring Electronics Fair- 40% of respondents expect their companies’ overall sales to increase in the next one to two years. Additionally, 50.5% expect to maintain the current overall sales figures, while less than 10% anticipate a decline.- Nearly 30% of respondents believe that compared to traditional electronic products and household appliances, consumers are willing to pay a premium of 21% to 30% more for products that are compatible with smart home or AI applications.In addition, the 2nd Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference brought together top experts, including Nobel Prize winning scholars, to discuss various innovation and science fields. The World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit, held in Hong Kong for the first time, also attracted nearly a thousand participants from all over the world to discuss the latest trends in areas such as AI, digital finance, digital government and smart living, creating synergies with BIT Week events.Photo download: https://bit.ly/3YA7Y75The 3rd InnoEX and the 21st Spring Electronics Fair concluded successfully today, attracting some 88,000 buyers from 148 countries and regions.The Low-altitude Economy zone presented drone and aircraft solutions from various companies, attracting many potential buyers.The Tech-Driven Industry and Economy Conference brought together government officials from Mainland China, Hong Kong and abroad to share how technology drives industry and economic development.With the World Internet Conference (WIC) Asia-Pacific Summit also taking place in Hong Kong, Zhuang Rongwen, Chair of WIC and Minister of Cyberspace Administration of China (middle) visited InnoEX to explore the innovations presented by exhibitors, including a showcase at the Digital Policy Office's Smart Hong Kong Pavilion.Robotics was one of the highlights at this year’s InnoEX. Pictured is a robot at the Beijing Zhongguancun pavilion.Australia’s Smart Cities Council participated in InnoEX for the first time, bringing cybersecurity and AI compliance solutions.At the Spring Electronics Fair, a Tech Trends Symposium was held with the theme "AI on the Go: A New Era of Intelligent Wearable Electronics", inviting industry leaders to discuss how wearable devices such as smart glasses and smart rings are reshaping people’s work and lifestyles.Several companies launched new products during the Spring Electronics Fair, including Havit Technology which unveiled a hat with headphone functionality using air conduction technology and a patented design.Spring Electronics Fair’s Digital Entertainment Experiential Zone returned this year, offering e-sports and interactive gaming experiences provided by game developers, including Refract’s VR boxing game.WebsitesInnoEX: innoex.hktdc.com/enHong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition): hkelectronicsfairse.hktdc.com/enMedia enquiriesYuan Tung Financial Relations:Salina ChengTel: (852) 3428 2362Email: salcheng@yuantung.com.hkHing-fung WongTel: (852) 3428 3122Email: hfwong@yuantung.com.hkHKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Sharon HaTel: (852) 2584 4575Email: sharon.mt.ha@hktdc.orgJohnny TsuiTel: (852) 2584 4395Email: johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.orgClayton Lau Tel: (852) 2584 4472Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Kuala Lumpur, Apr 17, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – April 16, CBL International Limited (NASDAQ: BANL) (the “Company” or “CBL”), the listing vehicle of Banle Group (“Banle” or “the Group”), a leading marine fuel logistic company in the Asia-Pacific region, today announced its annual financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024.Financial Performance OverviewThe company reported consolidated revenue of $592.52 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, marking a 35.9% increase from $435.90 million in 2023. This growth was primarily driven by a 38.1% increase in sales volume, supported by the addition of new customers during the year, expansion of our supply network to cover more ports, and a broader customer base that now includes bulk carriers and oil and gas tankers in addition to container liner operators.Due to challenging market conditions, the Company reported a net loss of $3.87 million in 2024, compared to a net income of $1.13 million in 2023, mainly attributed to a 25.5% decrease in gross profit to $5.37 million in 2024 from $7.21 million in 2023 and a 56.8% rise in operating expenses to $8.70 million in 2024 from $5.55 million in 2023. The Company adopted a volume-driven growth strategy that involved offering more competitive pricing in a market characterized by intensified competition and pricing pressure. While this approach supported increased sales volume and market share, it also contributed to narrower profit margins.In addition to reduced gross margins, the net loss was impacted by increased expenses for business expansion, biofuel operation, additional expenses to enhance ESG, and a rise in interest expenses. These were partially offset by a reduction in income tax expenses. The financial outcome reflects both the dynamic nature of the bunkering industry and the Company’s ongoing investment in client base development and geographic growth, which are expected to enhance long-term positioning as market conditions normalize.Earnings per share (EPS) reflected this, decrease to $(0.136) in 2024 from $0.045 in 2023. Cash and cash equivalents increased by 8.3% to $8.02 million as of December 31, 2024 from $7.40 million as of December 31, 2023.Business Expansion in Challenging TimesCBL International’s operational expansion was a key focus in 2024, particularly in a challenging industry environment marked by geopolitical tensions, such as the Red Sea crisis and broader Middle East tensions. The company grew its service network from 36 ports at the time of its IPO in March 2023 to over 60 ports by year-end 2024, covering Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa, and Central America. Revenue growth year-on-year was notable across China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and South Korea.Key new ports included Mauritius, Panama, and India, enhancing its global reach. This expansion was supported by servicing nine of the world’s top 12 container shipping lines, representing nearly 60% of global container fleet capacity. The Company’s European expansion focused on strengthening cross-regional service offerings for Euro–Asia trade routes. Growth was supported by a stronger presence in the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) region and a new Ireland office established in late 2023, enhancing local sourcing capabilities.Customer diversification was another priority, with the share of non-container liners in total revenue increased, and sales concentration among the top five customers declined in fiscal year 2024.A significant highlight was the company’s push towards sustainability, with biofuel sales surging by 628.8% and volume by 603.0%. The introduction of B24 biofuel (76% fossil fuel, 24% used cooking oil methyl ester) in Hong Kong, China, and Malaysia reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 20%, supported by ISCC EU and ISCC Plus certifications secured in 2023. This aligns with global trends towards greener shipping solutions and positions CBL as a leader in sustainable fuel logistics.Strategically, CBL enhanced its IT systems, implementing real-time order tracking, data analytics, and workflow automation to improve efficiency. Credit risk management was strengthened, and working capital management improved with increased factoring facilities and a cash balance rise, navigating macroeconomic challenges through pricing strategies and port network adjustments. Additionally, CBL expanded its funding sources by accessing capital markets, such as private placement, increasing financial flexibility to support growth initiatives.Bullish Outlook and Customer Loyalty StrategyDespite the net loss, CBL’s management remains optimistic about the future, viewing current industry challenges as an opportunity to build resilience and enhance customer loyalty. While prudently evaluating the impact of the latest U.S. tariff policy, among other macro incidents such as geopolitical tensions, regulatory changes, and shifting global trade dynamics, on the economy and the bunkering sector, CBL believes its broad global network, primarily focused on intra-Asia and Euro-Asia trade routes, helps mitigate potential adverse effects. Since the Company has no operation on U.S. ports, the impact of such policies may be limited in the near future.The Company’s strategic expansion of ports, diversification of its client base, and commitment to sustainable initiatives are designed to position it for growth when market conditions improve. By investing in new ports and expanding relationships with key industry players, CBL aims to secure long-term partnerships that will strengthen its market position as global trade stabilizes and profitability improves.Management Commentary and Future OutlookDr. Teck Lim Chia, Chairman and CEO of CBL International Limited, stated, “We are confident in our strategy to expand our service network, maximize sales volume and explore sustainable offerings, even in these challenging times. Our investments in new ports, diversified clients, and sustainable fuels are building a foundation for future growth. We believe that by demonstrating our capabilities at present, we will earn customer loyalty that will yield substantial benefits as the market recovers, positioning CBL International for significant success in the years ahead.”Looking ahead, CBL remains focused on expanding its market presence, particularly in biofuels, and enhancing its global supply network. The company is committed to driving operational efficiency and delivering sustainable growth.Webcast DetailsCBL International Limited (Nasdaq: BANL) cordially invites you to participate in a webcast to discuss its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024.About the Banle GroupCBL International Limited (Nasdaq: BANL) is the listing vehicle of Banle Group, a reputable marine fuel logistic company based in the Asia Pacific region that was established in 2015. We are committed to providing customers with one-stop solution for vessel refueling, which is referred to as bunkering facilitator in the bunkering industry. We facilitate vessel refueling mainly through local physical suppliers in over 60 major ports covering Belgium, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mauritius, Panama, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam, as of 16 April, 2025. The Group actively promotes the use of sustainable fuels and is awarded with the ISCC EU and ISCC Plus certifications.For more information about our company, please visit our website at: https://www.banle-intl.com.Forward-Looking StatementsCertain statements in this announcement are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “could,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “plan,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “future,” “outlook,” “potential,” “project” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding estimates and forecasts of other performance metrics and projections of market opportunity. They involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release and on current expectations of BANL’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of BANL. Some important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements could include changes in domestic and foreign business, fuel prices and tariffs, market, financial, political and legal conditions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company's registration statement and other filings with the SEC.CBL INTERNATIONAL LIMITED (Incorporated in Cayman Islands with limited liabilities)For more information, please contact:CBL International Limited Email: investors@banle-intl.comStrategic Financial Relations Limited Shelly Cheng Tel: (852) 2864 4857 Iris Au Yeung Tel: (852) 2114 4913Email: sprg_cbl@sprg.com.hk Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM, Apr 14, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - analytica Vietnam 2025, the leading international trade fair for laboratory technology, biotechnology, analysis, and diagnostics, successfully concluded its 9th edition, held from 2–4 April 2025 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC). Organised by MMI Asia Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary and regional headquarters of Messe München GmbH (MMG), in collaboration with Vietnam Exhibition and Event Services Co., Ltd (VNEES), and supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of Vietnam, the event surpassed all previous records in attendance and international participation. This milestone reinforces analytica Vietnam’s reputation as Southeast Asia’s premier platform for scientific innovation, cross-border collaboration, and advanced laboratory solutions.The exhibition welcomed 6,657 visitors, including 5,908 unique attendees from 37 countries, reflecting a 23% increase in unique visitors compared to the 2023 edition. This growth highlights the region's increasing demand for cutting-edge laboratory technologies and the growing prominence of the event on the international stage.Impressive Growth and Strong International Participationanalytica Vietnam 2025 experienced exceptional expansion, with a 52% increase in exhibitors. The exhibition hosted over 300 companies and brands across a 7,000 sqm exhibition space, a 56% increase in space compared to 2023. A notable 71% of exhibitors were international, underscoring the event’s rising international appeal and establishing it as a key meeting point for global industry leaders.Prakash Mishra, Head of Vietnam SLS Commercial at Merck Vietnam, remarked, “The quality of visitors this year has been very good—we’ve met professionals from across Asia, Europe, and even the US who are genuinely interested in understanding and entering the Vietnam market. For us, this has been an excellent opportunity to connect with both local and international partners. It’s encouraging to see Vietnam gaining more visibility on the global stage, and analytica Vietnam has played a key role in that. Overall, it’s been a strong start to the year, and we’re leaving the show with meaningful leads and a very positive outlook.”Key Show Features and HighlightsAcademic ConferenceThe concurrent academic conference attracted 770 participants, a notable increase from the 582 attendees in 2023. The conference provided a comprehensive program featuring industry experts and thought leaders, addressing key research trends, technological advancements, and challenges faced by the laboratory and biotechnology sectors.Southeast Asia’s First Live Lab PremiereA key highlight of analytica Vietnam 2025 was the debut of Southeast Asia’s first Live Lab, attracting over 770 participants. This immersive experience offered live demonstrations in a real laboratory environment, allowing attendees to interact with experts and explore the latest technologies in action. It provided valuable, hands-on insights into the practical applications of modern lab workflows.Hosted Buyer Program:analytica Vietnam 2025 welcomed 544 Hosted Buyers from Vietnam and neighboring countries including Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia. With over 700 pre-arranged meetings, the program fostered meaningful business engagement, paving the way for strategic partnerships and regional growth across the laboratory and analytical sectors.Startup PavilionThe Startup Pavilion showcased emerging companies in the laboratory sector, spotlighting innovations and new technologies that are poised to shape the future of the industry. This section of the exhibition offered a platform for fresh ideas and groundbreaking solutions that are advancing laboratory technology.Lab Design and Construction ForumThe Lab Design and Construction Forum delved into the future of sustainable and efficient laboratory infrastructure. The forum featured insights from industry leaders and experts on how modern design principles are transforming laboratory facilities to meet the growing demands of science, research, and industry.Innovation ZoneThe Innovation Zone was a dedicated space showcasing breakthrough technologies that are transforming laboratory operations and industry practices. Attendees had the opportunity to explore cutting-edge products and solutions that are shaping the future of laboratory technology.Exclusive Lab ToursSpecially curated Lab Tours took participants behind the scenes of leading research and testing facilities in Vietnam. These tours offered a deeper understanding of local industry advancements and provided insights into the real-world applications of the technologies showcased at the event.Future Editions: analytica Convention 2026 in Hanoi & analytica Vietnam 2027 in Ho Chi Minh CityBuilding on the remarkable success of analytica Vietnam 2025, MMI Asia is set to extend its reach across Vietnam. The analytica Convention 2026 will take place from April 22–24, 2026, at the International Exhibition Center (ICE) in Hanoi. Designed as an exclusive gathering, this event will feature a top-tier scientific conference and a focused showcase of laboratory technologies, offering industry professionals and academics in Northern Vietnam direct access to global innovations.The full-scale edition of analytica Vietnam will return to Ho Chi Minh City from March 31 to April 2, 2027, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC). With expectations for greater international presence and broader industry coverage, the 2027 edition will continue to serve as a strategic hub for technology exchange, partnerships, and market expansion in Southeast Asia.About analytica Vietnamanalytica Vietnam is the premier trade fair for laboratory technology, analysis, and biotechnology in Southeast Asia. Organized by Messe München, the event brings together industry professionals, researchers, and policymakers to showcase the latest technologies,exchange knowledge, and foster business collaborations. analytica Vietnam features an exhibition, conference, pre-event laboratory tours, buyer-seller programs, and networking opportunities, providing a comprehensive platform for the laboratory and biotechnology industries in the region. The upcoming edition is set to take place from April 2 to 4, 2025 at the SECC – Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center. More details can be found at https://www.analyticavietnam.com/.About analytica worldwideMesse München is the world’s leading trade fair organizer for laboratory technology, analysis and biotechnology. The international network of exhibitions includes analytica, analytica China, analytica Anacon India & India Lab Expo, analytica Vietnam and analytica Lab Africa. About MMI Asia Pte LtdEstablished in 1992, MMI Asia is the wholly owned subsidiary and the regional headquarters of Messe München GMBH (MMG) and is one of the world largest and leading exhibition organizers. MMI Asia’s portfolio of events include editions of worldleading trade fairs from Munich – transport logistic & air cargo, analytica, ceramitec; as well as industry-specific events such as Glasstech and Fenestration Asia, Asia Climate Forum, and Singapore International Water Week. MMI Asia also provides consultancy in professional trade fair and conference management to government bodies, international trade and promotion organizations, and trade associations. For more information, please visit www.mmiasia.comAbout Messe MünchenAs one of the world’s leading trade fair organizers, Messe München presents the world of tomorrow at its about 90 trade fairs worldwide. These include twelve of the world’s leading trade fairs such as bauma, BAU, IFAT, electronica, and ISPO. Messe München’s portfolio comprises trade fairs for capital and consumer goods, as well as for new technologies. Together with its subsidiaries, it organizes trade fairs in China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the U.S. With a network of more than 15 affiliated companies and almost 70 representations worldwide, Messe München is active in more than 130 countries. The more than 150 events held annually attract around 50,000 exhibitors and around three million visitors in Germany and abroad.Exhibition Contact:MMI Asia Pte. Ltd.Daniel ShiExhibition Directordaniel@mmiasia.com.sgPress Contact:MMI Asia Pte. Ltd.Joey NgMarketing Executive joey@mmiasia.com.sg Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Apr 15, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The latest Standard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Index (GBAI) jointly published by Standard Chartered and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) today indicated broad-based improvement in business sentiment in the region for the first quarter of 2025.The GBAI “current performance” index for business activity rose to 53.5 in Q1 from 50.7 prior – the highest since Q2-2024. Six of the eight index components rose quarter-on-quarter, and all previous sub-50 underperformers rallied back above the neutral mark, namely “capacity utilisation” (+3.2pts), “raw material inventory” (+9.0pts), “financing scale” (+3.2pts) and “profits” (+3.1pts).The GBAI “expectations” index for business activity improved in tandem with its “current performance” counterpart, to 54.3 in Q1 from 52.9 in Q4-2024. Encouragingly, seven of eight expectation sub-indices rose quarter-on-quarter, led by a 3.1 percentage point increase in “profits” and a 2.8 percentage point increase in “raw material inventory”.All the city sub-indices, be it “current performance” or “expectations”, rose quarter-on-quarter, with Shenzhen being the only exception. Hong Kong extended its rising “current performance” streak to four straight quarters, to 53.5; its “expectations” index jumped to 56.9 – bested only by Guangzhou – from 50.8 prior. Guangzhou’s current and expectation prints stood at 60.3 and 58.0, respectively, the highest among cities.This showed that GBA companies weathered the initial rounds of US tariff hikes (10%+10%) well, in part thanks to the DeepSeek breakthrough lifting market sentiment as well as the rising prospect of more policy stimulus from China’s policymakers. However, respondents’ more-upbeat outlook in February-March (when the Q1 survey was conducted) likely did not prepare them for recent events – US’ announcement of sweeping and sizeable reciprocal tariff hikes on China and most other countries.Kelvin Lau, Senior Economist, Greater China and North Asia, Standard Chartered, said: “Given the urgency to stabilise market sentiment following the tariff-induced sell-off, the likelihood of China cutting the reserve requirement ratio and/or policy rate (7-day reverse repo rate) in April has materially increased. We expect that both monetary and fiscal policies on the Mainland will stay supportive. Meanwhile, Hong Kong would need to ramp up short-term support to SMEs and continue to diversify its trade to facilitate more non-US trade corridors. Our next survey, to be conducted in May-June, should provide a better view of the readiness of GBA businesses to live with high tariffs.”More consumption boosts welcomedLooking ahead, 41% of respondents saw a positive impact from the consumption boosting initiatives announced by China in January. Meanwhile, 38% said the consumer goods trade-in programme would bring positive impact on their business. When asked what else the government could do to expand the consumption-supportive measures, the most popular suggestion was “relax market access for private sector and foreign investment to help boost services consumption”.Wing Chu, Principal Economist (Greater China Research Team), HKTDC, said: “Boosting domestic demand is one of the government’s top priorities, as highlighted in the Government Work Report delivered by Chinese Premier Li Qiang in March. More than 50% of respondents have indicated that they are either already well positioned to tap into the mainland consumer market or are currently expanding or planning to expand their operations to do so. Additional supportive measures from the government could further bolster their businesses.”About the GBAIThe GBAI is the first forward-looking quarterly survey in the market that looks at the business sentiment and synergistic effects in cities and industries across the GBA. It is compiled based on a survey of more than 1,000 companies in the GBA covering the manufacturing and trading, retail and wholesale, financial services, professional services and innovation and technology sectors. The index enables investors and businesses to better understand the current business climate, gauge future performance prospects and formulate their market strategies for the GBA.Related materialsStandard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Index Report: https://www.sc.com/hk/gba/gba-index-report/HKTDC Research: https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MTk4MDY0MTYwOQ(From left) Kelvin Lau, Senior Economist, Greater China and North Asia, Standard Chartered, and Wing Chu, Principal Economist (Greater China Research Team), HKTDC, announced the latest GBA Business Confidence Index (GBAI) today (15 April 2025). Kelvin Lau, Senior Economist, Greater China and North Asia, Standard Chartered Wing Chu, Principal Economist (Greater China Research Team), HKTDCMedia enquiriesCorporate Affairs DepartmentStandard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited Flora Chiu Tel: (852) 3843 2285 Email: flora.chiu@sc.com Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentHKTDC Katy WongClayton Lauw Tel: (852) 2584 4524Tel: (852) 2584 4472Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgEmail: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAbout Standard CharteredWe are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, here for good.Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong stock exchanges.The history of Standard Chartered in Hong Kong dates back to 1859. It is currently one of the Hong Kong SAR’s three note-issuing banks. Standard Chartered incorporated its Hong Kong business on 1 July 2004, and now operates as a licensed bank in Hong Kong under the name of Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Chartered PLC. For more stories and expert opinions please visit Insights at sc.com. Follow Standard Chartered on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.About HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.