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Author: Mei Ling Tan

  • Dak Lak Durian Crisis: Testing Halt Triggers Heavy Losses for Farmers and Exporters

    Dak Lak Durian Crisis: Testing Halt Triggers Heavy Losses for Farmers and Exporters

    Durian orchards in Dak Lak Province are suffering significant losses as export activities have halted and demand has plummeted due to delays in chemical residue testing. Doan Thi Thuy, an orchard owner in Krong Pak District, has experienced the harsh realities of this situation with fruits beginning to fall from her over 100 durian trees in recent days.

    Failed Deals and Falling Prices

    Thuy mentioned that several large-scale traders had shown interest in purchasing her durians for VND82,000 (US$3.12) per kilogram, even going so far as to put down deposits. Unfortunately, these deals fell through, forcing her to sell the now overripe fruits to smaller traders at a significantly reduced price of VND20,000-25,000 per kilogram.

    Impacts of Testing Delays

    The Dak Lak Durian Association recently highlighted that almost 2,000 containers of fruits have been stuck at various locations including warehouses, packing facilities, and border checkpoints since October 11. This bottleneck has occurred due to the halt in chemical residue testing, which is a critical step in obtaining the necessary certifications for export.

    The peak durian harvesting season in Dak Lak, a key producing province in the Central Highlands, is currently underway. However, the paused testing has resulted in significant losses for farmers.

    Orchard Owners Bearing the Brunt

    Doan Kiem, a durian farmer, has resorted to selling his durians, originally intended for export, at just a quarter of the agreed-upon price to anyone willing to buy. Kiem spends approximately VND600 million annually to maintain his 500-tree orchard and estimates his losses in the hundreds of millions due to this predicament.

    The pause in testing has not only affected farmers but also exporters who are left with no other option but to wait for the test results. Some businesses, fearing their fruits will spoil, have tried to sell in the domestic market or have processed them. Delays in testing have even caused several shipments of durians to crack and spoil, leading to losses amounting to billions of dong.

    The Path Forward

    A testing center in northern Vietnam expects to resume operations shortly. The temporary halt was to ensure the stability and accuracy of the equipment after its heavy use during the peak season. Vietnam has 24 labs that have been approved by Chinese customs to test a total of 3,200 samples per day. However, the heavy workload has led to equipment breakdowns at many labs, while others have had to pause operations due to license renewal processes.

    The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has instructed relevant agencies to review all labs and provide necessary assistance. It has also advised the Plant Protection Department to cooperate with Chinese authorities to get more testing facilities approved.

    The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association has suggested that testing facilities should plan their maintenance schedules in advance and notify businesses sooner to avoid further bottlenecks. It also encourages exporters to keep a close eye on market trends and adjust their shipping schedules to avoid congestion during peak seasons.

    Despite the current challenges, Vietnam managed to export $1.8 billion worth of durians in the first eight months of 2025. Fresh fruit shipments accounted for $1.52 billion of this total, marking a 25% decline from the previous year. However, frozen durian exports saw an impressive increase, up 127% to $265 million.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main reason for the current losses in Dak Lak’s durian industry?
    The primary reason is the delay in chemical residue testing, which has halted exports and led to a significant drop in demand.

    How have testing delays affected durian farmers and exporters?
    Testing delays have resulted in massive losses for durian farmers, with fruits falling from trees and deals with traders falling through. Exporters are also in a bind as they can’t export their produce without the necessary certifications.

    What measures are being taken to resolve this issue?
    A testing center in northern Vietnam expects to resume operations shortly. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has instructed relevant agencies to review all labs, provide necessary assistance, and work with Chinese authorities to get more testing facilities approved.

  • Despite Shipping 7 Million Tonnes, Vietnam Rice Exports Witness Slump Amid Falling Prices and Weak Global Demand

    Despite Shipping 7 Million Tonnes, Vietnam Rice Exports Witness Slump Amid Falling Prices and Weak Global Demand

    From the start of the year through October 15, Vietnam exported more than 7 million tonnes of rice. Despite this significant export volume, domestic paddy and rice prices have seen a decline due to reduced purchases from exporters.

    Rice Export Data

    The cumulative rice exports from Vietnam for the mentioned period were 7.02 million tonnes. These exports were valued at approximately $3.59 billion. When compared to the same time frame from the previous year, there was a 4.4% decrease in volume and a 21.9% reduction in value, according to data from the Vietnam Food Association (VFA).

    Last week, the cost of 5% broken jasmine rice was between $420 and $435 per tonne, which is close to a two-month low. A trader based in Ho Chi Minh City reported that domestic trading activity has been relatively stagnant. This is primarily due to many exporters slowing their paddy purchases from farmers as a result of weak overseas demand.

    Domestic Market Performance

    In the domestic market, jasmine paddy was trading at approximately $0.20 per kilogram, reflecting a decrease from the previous week. Conversely, the price of ordinary paddy saw an increase to an average of $0.20 per kilogram, as reported by the VFA.

    In Can Tho, a city in the Mekong Delta region, prices for various types of paddy remained steady. For instance, jasmine paddy was priced at $0.36 per kilogram, OM 18 at $0.29, IR 5451 at $0.27, and ST25 at $0.40, as per the data shared by the Institute of Policy and Strategy for Agriculture and Environment.

    In An Giang province, the Department of Agriculture and Environment reported that fresh paddy prices ranged from $0.21 to $0.25 per kilogram, depending on the variety. Retail rice prices within the province were observed to range between $0.52 and $0.95 per kilogram.

    Production Updates

    Regarding production, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment stated that by October 20, nearly 1.24 million hectares of the 2025 summer-autumn crop were sown across the Mekong Delta provinces. Harvesting has been completed with an average yield of approximately 6.06 tonnes per hectare, or an estimated total of 7.51 million tonnes of paddy.

    For the autumn-winter crop, 763,000 hectares were planted, surpassing the planned area by 102.8%. Of this, 263,000 hectares have been harvested with an average yield of 5.68 tonnes per hectare.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the total volume of rice that Vietnam exported from the beginning of the year through October 15?
    Vietnam exported more than 7 million tonnes of rice during this period.

    How have domestic paddy and rice prices in Vietnam been affected?
    Domestic paddy and rice prices have seen a decline due to reduced purchases by exporters.

    What has been the impact on domestic trading?
    Domestic trading activity has been relatively stagnant due to many exporters slowing their paddy purchases from farmers because of weak overseas demand.

  • United Airlines Reconnects US and HCMC: Daily Flights Resume After Eight-Year Break

    United Airlines Reconnects US and HCMC: Daily Flights Resume After Eight-Year Break

    After an eight-year pause, United Airlines, one of the top three largest American carriers, has restarted its flight operations between two U.S. cities and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). As of this week, the airline has begun operating daily flights from HCMC to Hong Kong, which will then connect passengers to Los Angeles or San Francisco, both located in the state of California. For each of these flights, the airline will utilize its wide-body Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, which has a seating capacity of 257.

    Historical Precedent

    United Airlines has a distinctive history of being the first U.S. airline to conduct direct flights to Vietnam, following the bilateral air transport agreement in 2003. It maintained its operations between 2007 and 2012, flying to HCMC’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

    Fleet and Competition

    Boasting a fleet of over 1,000 aircraft, United Airlines remains a significant player in the American aviation sector, sitting alongside Delta Air Lines and American Airlines in competition for the top spot.

    Up until recently, Vietnam Airlines was the sole carrier providing commercial services between the U.S. and Vietnam. It operated three weekly round-trip flights between HCMC and San Francisco.

    Strategy and Expansion

    In discussing the airline’s decision to resume flights to HCMC, Patrick Quayle, the senior vice president of global network and alliances at United Airlines, stated that this move is a part of the carrier’s expansion strategy in the Pacific region.

    The airline has ambitious plans for growth. By the end of this year, United Airlines expects to serve 32 destinations in the Pacific region. On a worldwide scale, it aims to operate more than 850 daily flights to over 150 international destinations by next year.

    Questions & Answers

    What are United Airlines’ plans for expansion in the Pacific region?
    United Airlines aims to serve 32 destinations in the Pacific region by the end of this year.

    What is the seating capacity of United Airlines’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft used for these flights?
    The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft used by United Airlines for these flights has a seating capacity of 257.

    When did United Airlines first operate direct flights to Vietnam?
    United Airlines first operated direct flights to Vietnam following the bilateral air transport agreement in 2003, and continued these operations from 2007 to 2012.

  • UBS Eyes Nationwide Expansion in US: A Game-Changer in Wealth Management Services

    UBS Eyes Nationwide Expansion in US: A Game-Changer in Wealth Management Services

    UBS, a Swiss multinational investment bank and financial services company, has signaled its plans to significantly expand its footprint in the United States’ financial market. This move demonstrates UBS’s dedication to deepening its presence across the American financial landscape.

    Existing Limitations and Expansion Plans

    With its current state-level charter, UBS has been able to offer its wealth management clients in the US a variety of banking services, including cash management, credit cards, and securities-based lending. However, the state-level charter also imposes certain limitations on the range of services the bank can offer.

    To expand its wealth management arsenal, UBS Bank USA, a subsidiary of UBS, has applied to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). The approval of this application would allow UBS to provide a more comprehensive portfolio of banking and lending services, including traditional checking and savings accounts.

    In essence, UBS is striving to deliver a full suite of banking services to its wealth management clients in the United States. This will make it easier for these clients to manage their finances in one location. The license is expected to facilitate a gradual expansion of the bank’s current range of services.

    A Testament to Long-Term Commitment

    UBS anticipates gaining regulatory approval in 2026, a process which is subject to review by the US authorities. This strategic move comes at a time when UBS is strengthening its status as the world’s largest wealth manager. This followed its acquisition of Credit Suisse and reflects its effort to balance its global scale with a deeper penetration in key markets, including the United States.

    Questions & Answers

    What does UBS’s application to the OCC imply?
    It signifies the bank’s intent to offer a broader range of banking and lending services, including traditional checking and savings accounts, to its wealth management clients in the US.

    What factors have provoked UBS’s decision to expand its services in the US?
    The decision is a reflection of UBS’s strategy to strengthen its position as the world’s largest wealth manager, following its acquisition of Credit Suisse, and to deepen its roots in key markets such as the US.

    When does UBS anticipate gaining regulatory approval for the expansion?
    UBS expects to gain regulatory approval by 2026, a process that is subject to a review by the US authorities.

  • Vietjet Partners with Airways Aviation to Train EASA-Certified Pilots

    Vietjet Partners with Airways Aviation to Train EASA-Certified Pilots

    Vietjet and global aviation education leader Airways Aviation have announced a strategic partnership to train the next generation of aviation professionals. The partnership will enhance its readiness for further global network expansion and meet rising travel demand. The airline has actively expanded its international services, including the frequency increase for Singapore – Da Nang and Singapore – Phu Quoc routes.

    The signing ceremony took place in Finland, witnessed by Vietnam’s General Secretary To Lam during his official visit to Finland.

    Under this partnership, Airways Aviation will collaborate with Vietjet Aviation Academy (VJAA) to deliver international-standard pilot training programs in Europe. These programs will adhere to regulations set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV).

    The collaboration will include specialised MPL (Multi-crew Pilot Licence) and CPL (Commercial Pilot Licence) courses designed to cultivate high-calibre pilots for Vietjet’s expanding international network, including routes across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and beyond.

    Vietjet currently employs over 9,000 staff from more than 60 nationalities and operates one of Asia’s youngest fleets. The airline continues to expand its network across key regional hubs such as Singapore, with four direct routes to Vietnam, enhancing connectivity, and creating opportunities for aviation professionals across Asia.

    As an IATA-accredited training partner in Vietnam, VJAA has trained thousands of aviation professionals, including pilots, flight attendants, engineers, and dispatchers, empowering the dream of conquering the skies and driving the industry’s growth.

    Airways Aviation, with over 45 years of experience, operates a network of aviation academies across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia, offering students access to internationally recognised flight training pathways.

  • Say Goodbye to Regret: Google Messages Eyes Feature for Retrieving Deleted Texts

    Say Goodbye to Regret: Google Messages Eyes Feature for Retrieving Deleted Texts

    The popular messaging platform Google Messages is reportedly working on a new feature that may allow users to retrieve deleted messages. Unlike the majority of email services where deleted messages are moved to a trash folder for temporary storage before permanent deletion, Google Messages currently does not have a similar feature.

    Retrieving Deleted Messages

    Most email services, including Gmail, shift deleted emails to a bin before they are permanently removed. These emails can be retrieved within a certain period of time, typically around 30 days for Gmail. Google Messages, however, does not currently have this feature. Once a message is deleted, it is gone forever. This could be set to change in the near future.

    Evidence of a possible “trash folder” has been found in the latest beta version of the Google Messages app. These “trashed conversations” would allow for a recovery period similar to that of email services, though the feature does not appear to be fully functional yet.

    Benefits of a Trash Folder

    The ability to restore deleted messages offers several benefits to users. Whether a message is deleted in anger and later regretted, or accidentally removed during a mass cleanup, a temporary storage bin provides the opportunity to recover these messages. While it is unclear how long messages might be stored in this potential trash folder, a 30-day timeframe would align with Gmail’s current setup.

    While Google Messages does currently offer an archive feature that allows users to hide conversations without deleting them, this is not an equivalent substitute for the ability to restore deleted messages.

    Continuous Improvements

    Google Messages has continually strived to optimize user experience. Recent updates have included streamlined access to photos and new expressive features. The app also introduced a feature warning users about inappropriate videos.

    The development of a trash folder for deleted messages signals Google Messages’ commitment to user-friendly features. Taking cues from email services, the messaging app is continually evolving to offer the best possible experience to its users.

    Questions & Answers

    What new feature is Google Messages potentially introducing?
    Google Messages is reportedly working on a feature that would allow users to retrieve deleted messages.

    What is the current setup for deleted messages on Google Messages?
    Currently, once a message is deleted on Google Messages, it cannot be retrieved.

    What recent improvements has Google Messages made?
    Recent updates have streamlined access to photos, introduced new expressive features, and added a warning system for inappropriate videos.

  • Major Expansion: Gia Binh Airport’s $7.5b Upgrade To Boost Northern Vietnam’s Aviation Sector

    Major Expansion: Gia Binh Airport’s $7.5b Upgrade To Boost Northern Vietnam’s Aviation Sector

    The Gia Binh International Airport, currently under construction near Hanoi, is anticipated to cost around VND196.37 trillion (US$7.5 billion) due to recent upgrades. The airport, situated in Bac Ninh Province, 40 kilometers from Hanoi, is now projected to handle 50 million passengers and 2.5 million tons of cargo per year by 2050. This is a significant increase from the previously predicted 15 million passengers and 1.6 million tons of cargo.

    Construction and Upgrades

    The construction of the airport commenced in December of the previous year, with the Ministry of Construction giving the approval for the upgrades recently. The airport is being constructed by the Masterise Group, a property developer. It is being perceived as the primary aviation gateway for the northern region, intended for both passenger and cargo transport.

    The airport is planned to house four runways, spaced sufficiently apart to allow for independent operations. These runways will be constructed in accordance with 4F standards, which means the airport will be able to accommodate large aircraft, such as the Boeing 777 and Airbus A330.

    Comparison with Noi Bai International Airport

    Currently, Hanoi’s primary airport is the Noi Bai International Airport, which has a capacity of 25 million passengers per year. However, there are plans in place to increase this capacity to 55 million by 2030 and 85 million by 2050. This indicates a significant push for development in the region’s aviation sector, with the Gia Binh International Airport being a crucial part of this expansion.

    Questions & Answers

    How much is the Gia Binh International Airport expected to cost after recent upgrades?
    The Gia Binh International Airport, after recently approved upgrades, is projected to cost around VND196.37 trillion (US$7.5 billion).

    What is the expected capacity of the Gia Binh International Airport by 2050?
    The Gia Binh International Airport is expected to handle 50 million passengers and 2.5 million tons of cargo per year by 2050.

    Who is responsible for the construction of the Gia Binh International Airport?
    The airport is being built by the Masterise Group, a property developer.

  • Malaysia’s OldTown White Coffee ramps up Philippine expansion

    Malaysia’s OldTown White Coffee ramps up Philippine expansion

    OldTown White Coffee, a renowned Malaysian coffee brand, is charting an ambitious growth trajectory in the Philippines with a hefty investment amounting to US$21 million (PHP400 million). The funding will facilitate the introduction of 20 additional outlets over the next half-decade.

    This strategic expansion is spearheaded by the brand’s Philippine licensee, Del Mundo Group. This follows hot on the heels of the inauguration of OldTown’s inaugural branch in Zamboanga City. This new entrant marks the 11th OldTown outlet in the Philippines and the first in Western Mindanao.

    The new café, nestled in Tumaga’s Pasonanca Road, is the entrepreneurial venture of Pherhan and Jhulie Saiddi. The duo aims to enrich Zamboanga’s vibrant food and beverage landscape with their venture.

    “We aspire to introduce a global brand to Zamboanga that resonates with quality and cultural authenticity. OldTown White Coffee encapsulates this aspiration perfectly,” expressed the Saiddis.

    Debuting in 1999, OldTown White Coffee has earned a name for its signature roasted white coffee and authentic Malaysian cuisine. With more than 200 outlets across Malaysia, the brand has extended its footprint to Singapore, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.

    The Philippine chapter of OldTown White Coffee began in 2023, under the aegis of Del Mundo Group. The group is also known for managing brands like Mesa Filipino Moderne, Ramen Bari Uma, Buchiton, Hayashi Yakiniku, and Cravy.

    Matt Ablis, the COO of Del Mundo Group, revealed the group’s intention to penetrate key provincial markets with burgeoning consumer demand and local economic growth. “This expansion is not just about opening new stores, it extends to bringing OldTown’s established café format and menu to previously untapped regions,” he shared.

    Questions & Answers

    What is OldTown White Coffee planning for the Philippines?
    OldTown White Coffee aims to expand its presence in the Philippines with a US$21 million investment, planning to open 20 more outlets over the next five years.

    Who is leading the expansion of OldTown White Coffee in the Philippines?
    The expansion of OldTown White Coffee in the Philippines is being spearheaded by the Del Mundo Group.

    What is the vision of the owners of the new café in Zamboanga City?
    The owners of the new café in Zamboanga City aim to enrich the city’s food and beverage scene by introducing OldTown White Coffee, which they believe encapsulates quality and cultural authenticity.

  • Diptyque Unveils Immersive Pop-up Store In Hong Kong: Holiday Edition

    Diptyque Unveils Immersive Pop-up Store In Hong Kong: Holiday Edition

    Diptyque, the esteemed French luxury fragrance brand, has unveiled a pop-up store in Hong Kong’s Hollywood Road, promising an immersive and festive experience for customers through its Holiday 2025 collection, ‘A Night of Wax and Gold’.

    The Store Aesthetics

    Spread across two levels and covering 150 square meters, the pop-up store’s exterior is an eye-catching green facade, beautifully engraved with golden excerpts from the collection’s narrative. Adding a whimsical touch to the store’s facade is Archibald, a mischievous cat character rendered by illustrator Vincent Puente.

    Inside, the ambiance takes a nostalgic turn, drawing inspiration from vintage bookshops. The green painted walls are adorned with gold pine cones and shimmering trees, creating a festive atmosphere. Furthering the theme, a central installation, in the form of a pine tree constructed from oversized books, becomes a unique display for the brand’s Sapin (Pine Tree) Candle, the standout piece in their holiday collection.

    The Creative Workshop

    The upper level of the pop-up serves as an interactive creative workshop. Centering around a large wooden table, visitors are encouraged to partake in a variety of engaging holiday activities. From crafting seasonal wreaths and mastering gift-wrapping and decoration techniques to personalizing candles with hand-applied gold accents, the space offers a stimulating and festive experience for all visitors.

    The Magic Book Experience

    Enhancing the unique shopping experience, the pop-up also introduces a ‘magic book’ feature. Visitors are given the opportunity to choose a bookmark, which, when sprayed with perfume, reveals hidden illustrations and even surprise gifts for the customers to take home.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the theme of Diptyque’s Holiday 2025 collection?
    Diptyque’s Holiday 2025 collection is themed ‘A Night of Wax and Gold’.

    What are some of the activities that visitors can participate in at Diptyque’s pop-up store?
    Visitors can partake in a variety of festive activities including crafting seasonal wreaths, learning gift-wrapping and decoration techniques, and personalizing candles with hand-applied gold accents.

    What is the ‘magic book’ experience at Diptyque’s pop-up store?
    The ‘magic book’ experience allows visitors to select a bookmark which, when sprayed with perfume, reveals hidden illustrations and surprise gifts for them to take home.

  • Viva Energy reports convenience sales decline in third quarter

    Viva Energy reports convenience sales decline in third quarter

    Viva Energy’s Convenience and Mobility (C&M) division has experienced a decrease in both convenience sales and fuel volumes in the third quarter. This shrinkage is attributed to the ongoing challenges within the retail fuel industry, as well as a reduction in the number of operational stores.

    Fall in Convenience Sales

    The company has reported a 12.5% drop in convenience sales, slipping down to $392 million from $448 million compared to the same period last year. However, excluding tobacco sales, the figures remained stable. Tobacco sales, on another note, witnessed a 15% dip year on year, consistent with the overall declining trend for the product category. However, the tobacco sales remained consistent on a month-to-month basis for this quarter.

    Margin Increase and Cost Reductions

    Despite the drop in sales, the convenience gross margin saw an increase to 41%, a rise of 3.5 percentage points. This increase was primarily driven by alterations in the product mix, range, and pricing. Consequently, the company assured that it remains on target to achieve $35 million in cost reductions and synergies during the second half of the fiscal year, achieved through system and organization consolidation.

    Store Openings and Future Plans

    The company has opened 21 new On The Run (OTR) stores this year, with an additional 15 currently under construction, expected to be completed by the end of the year. Six conversions of Liberty Convenience are also planned for the fourth quarter, with a few openings rescheduled to January to better match seasonal demand.

    C&M also plans to expand its Scan Pump Save app across its express network during the fourth quarter, aiming to provide customers with a unified digital experience and the ability to pay at the pump at company-controlled sites.

    Leadership Changes

    In related news, Jennifer Gray has been appointed as the interim CEO of the C&M division. As the company begins the search for a permanent CEO, Gray will be supported by independent non-executive director John Joyce. Her primary focus will be to drive top-line growth, capture synergies and cost reductions, and leverage common systems to improve operational performance.

    Questions & Answers

    What caused the decline in Viva Energy’s convenience sales and fuel volumes?
    The decrease in both convenience sales and fuel volumes is attributed to the ongoing challenges within the retail fuel industry and a reduction in the number of operational stores.

    What is the key cause of the increase in the convenience gross margin?
    The increase in convenience gross margin was primarily driven by alterations in the product mix, range, and pricing.

    What is the future plan of the C&M division regarding the Scan Pump Save app?
    C&M plans to expand its Scan Pump Save app across its express network during the fourth quarter to provide customers with a unified digital experience and the ability to pay at the pump at company-controlled sites.

  • Mondelez Harnesses Ai To Cut Marketing Costs And Revolutionize Tv Advertising

    Mondelez Harnesses Ai To Cut Marketing Costs And Revolutionize Tv Advertising

    Mondelez, the renowned snack producer, has taken a step forward in leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce the expenses involved in creating marketing content by 30% to 50%. They have collaborated with advertising firm, Publicis Groupe, and IT company, Accenture, to develop an innovative AI tool.

    Revolutionizing TV Ads with AI

    Jon Halvorson, Mondelez’s global senior vice president of consumer experience, revealed the company’s ambitious plan to use this tool for generating short TV commercials which can be broadcasted as early as the upcoming holiday season. Notably, the company also has its sights set on creating ads for the 2027 Super Bowl.

    The manufacturer of Cadbury chocolate has invested more than $40 million into this AI initiative. Halvorson predicts the tool’s ability to create more intricate videos would lead to an increase in cost savings.

    Adopting AI amid Economic Challenges

    Like many consumer goods companies dealing with tariffs and decreasing customer budgets, Mondelez is turning to AI as a solution to reduce the fees associated with advertising agencies and accelerate product development and sales cycles.

    Other industry players such as Kraft Heinz, the maker of macaroni and cheese, and beverage giant Coca-Cola have also been experimenting with AI for their advertising efforts.

    AI-Powered Social Media Content

    Mondelez has been using the AI-generated content on social media platforms for their Chips Ahoy cookies in the US and Milka chocolate in Germany. A short eight-second Milka video featuring waves of chocolate flowing over a wafer has been used, with varying backgrounds tailored to the specific consumer group being targeted.

    The costs for creating such animations usually run into hundreds of thousands of dollars. With the new AI tool, however, Halvorson suggests the expenses are significantly lower.

    Upcoming AI Initiatives

    In November, Mondelez’s Oreo will utilize the tool for product pages on Amazon and Walmart in the US. The company also plans to use the tool in the near future for its Lacta chocolate and Oreo lines in Brazil, as well as Cadbury in the UK.

    Tina Vaswani, VP of digital enablement and data for the company, assures that the content created by the AI tool will be manually reviewed to prevent any potential issues. Mondelez follows strict rules against promoting unhealthy eating habits, vaping, overconsumption, emotionally manipulative language, and offensive stereotypes in their content.

    Questions & Answers

    How much has Mondelez invested in the AI tool?
    Mondelez has invested over $40 million in the development of the AI tool.

    How does Mondelez plan to use the AI-generated content?
    Mondelez has utilized AI-generated content for social media promotions and plans to use it for TV commercials, as well as product pages on Amazon and Walmart.

    What measures has Mondelez taken to ensure the quality of AI-generated content?
    Every piece of content generated by the AI tool is reviewed by humans to prevent any inappropriate or offensive content, adhering to company guidelines.

  • Ho Chi Minh City Ceo Arrested: Accused Of $570,200 Counterfeit Perfume Operation

    Ho Chi Minh City Ceo Arrested: Accused Of $570,200 Counterfeit Perfume Operation

    In a recent turn of events, a CEO and his spouse based in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) have been apprehended by the police on the grounds of allegedly manufacturing and marketing tens of thousands of fraudulent perfume bottles. These counterfeit products bore the labels of well-known luxury brands such as Chanel, Gucci, and Dior, among others. The illicit profits gathered from this illegal enterprise are estimated to be around VND15 billion (US$570,200).

    The Masterminds and Their Accomplices

    The individuals caught in this scandal are Nguyen Ngoc Tho, the CEO of Nguyen Huong, and his wife, Truong Thi Mai Hien. Along with them, nine other people were also taken into custody by the HCMC police on charges related to the production and sale of fraudulent goods.

    The couple has been identified by the authorities as the key instigators behind this significant counterfeit perfume production ring.

    The Raid and Confiscation

    During a recent operation at the company’s production site within the city, the law enforcement officers seized 20,000 imitation perfume bottles carrying the tags of elite luxury brands. The authorities also confiscated various perfume-making equipment and tools used in the fraudulent operations.

    The Counterfeit Scheme

    The authorities have accused the couple of initiating this scheme since the beginning of last year. Apparently, Tho observed a surge in perfume demand and started researching and creating formulas for counterfeit perfumes online.

    Together with his wife, Tho procured machinery, raw materials, and perfume bottles. They rented a production facility and mainly hired family members to blend, fill, label, and package the fake perfumes.

    They promoted these spurious products on social media platforms and distributed them in vast quantities across numerous provinces.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the legal implications of the case?
    Given the scope of the fraudulent operation and the brand value of the companies affected, significant legal implications can be anticipated. This includes potential jail time, hefty fines, and possible lawsuits from the affected brands.

    What was the primary market for these counterfeit products?
    The couple leveraged the internet and social media platforms to market these counterfeit products, targeting customers in several provinces.

    Who were involved in the production process of these counterfeit perfumes?
    The CEO and his wife led the operation, hiring mainly family members in their production facility to create the counterfeit perfumes.

  • Miniso Debuts Its First ‘miniso Land’ In Thailand, Aiming To Transform Traditional Retail

    Miniso Debuts Its First ‘miniso Land’ In Thailand, Aiming To Transform Traditional Retail

    Miniso, a Chinese lifestyle brand, has made a significant stride in its global expansion strategy with the opening of its first Miniso Land store in Thailand. The new retail spot is situated in the bustling Siam Square shopping district of Bangkok, covering an impressive area of over 1000 square meters spread across three levels.

    Store Features

    This expansive store showcases more than 80 Intellectual Property (IP) characters, such as Harry Potter, Stitch, and popular characters from Sanrio. Also featured is Miniso’s proprietary IP line, DunDun Chicken, making its introduction to the Thai market through this store.

    In a statement, Miniso disclosed that products based on IP characters make up approximately 80% of the store’s entire product collection. This emphasizes Miniso’s retail strategy of enhancing the customers’ in-store experience by accentuating character-themed products.

    A Model for Success

    Jun Wang, CEO of Miniso Thailand, commented that this innovative retail model has proven successful in every location it has been implemented, by offering a more interactive shopping experience. Wang noted that the new store significantly contributes to their commitment towards the region and mirrors their ambition to transform traditional retail through inventive experiences and creative design.

    The Miniso Land concept originated in Shanghai in the previous year and has now grown to include 15 locations throughout China. The company has expressed its intention to continue the expansion of these experiential stores in Thailand’s primary commercial zones, especially those popular with younger demographics.

    Earlier this year, Miniso further demonstrated its growing influence in Thailand by unveiling its first flagship store near Asiatique Sky, which is home to Bangkok’s largest Ferris wheel.

    Questions & Answers

    What is unique about the new Miniso Land store in Thailand?
    The store is unique for its large array of IP character-based products, including their own IP line, DunDun Chicken, which is making its debut in the Thai market.

    What is the company’s strategy with these experiential stores?
    Miniso aims to redefine traditional retail by offering innovative and interactive shopping experiences, with a special focus on character-driven retail experiences.

    What does the opening of this store indicate about Miniso’s presence in Thailand?
    The opening of the first Miniso Land in Thailand, following the unveiling of its first flagship store, shows that Miniso is solidifying its presence and marking significant growth in the country.

  • Lenskart to launch IPO this week, seeking US$7.9b in valuation

    Lenskart to launch IPO this week, seeking US$7.9b in valuation

    Lenskart Solutions, a leading Indian eyewear retailer, is preparing to unveil its Initial Public Offering (IPO) this week. The company is targeting a valuation of approximately 695 billion rupees, which equates to around $7.91 billion.

    Details of the IPO

    Lenskart Solutions has established a price range of 382-402 rupees per share, which translates to around $4.35 to $4.57. As part of the IPO, Lenskart will issue fresh shares amounting to 21.5 billion rupees. Current investors, inclusive of the company’s founders, are also set to sell approximately 128 million shares, as indicated in an updated prospectus.

    The IPO will commence on October 31 and continue until November 4, with anchor investors beginning to submit their bids on October 30.

    Lenskart’s Success Story

    Lenskart Solutions was established in 2010 and has its headquarters in Gurgaon. As of September 10, the company was valued at $6.1 billion. It operates more than 2060 stores throughout India and has more than 650 outlets internationally.

    The main shareholders, often referred to as ‘promoters’, encompass a Mumbai-based private equity firm named Kedaara Capital, Temasek, a state-owned investment company from Singapore, and SoftBank from Japan.

    Future Plans

    In a statement released in July to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Lenskart Solutions announced that the funds procured from the IPO will be utilized to invest in the establishment of new company-owned, company-operated stores nationwide.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the targeted valuation for Lenskart Solutions’ IPO?
    The company is aiming for a valuation of approximately 695 billion rupees or around $7.91 billion.

    Who are the main shareholders of Lenskart Solutions?
    The primary shareholders include a Mumbai-based private equity firm named Kedaara Capital, Singapore’s state investment company, Temasek, and Japan’s SoftBank.

    What will the funds procured from the IPO be used for?
    Lenskart Solutions has stated that the funds will be utilized to invest in the establishment of new company-owned, company-operated stores across India.

  • Singtel, Ericsson And Hp Launch 5g+ Workspace: Revolutionizing Esim Management And Enterprise Security

    Singtel, Ericsson And Hp Launch 5g+ Workspace: Revolutionizing Esim Management And Enterprise Security

    In a joint venture with Ericsson and HP Inc, Singtel has launched a service featuring the Ericsson Enterprise Virtual Cellular Network. This service automates eSIM profile management, allowing zero-touch provisioning and secure access to corporate applications from nearly any location. This automation gives enterprises total control over eSIM activation and deployment, thus simplifying operations and reducing IT overhead.

    5G+ Workspace and HP’s Role

    The 5G+ Workspace is also equipped with HP’s enterprise-grade, AI-ready laptops and digital workplace tools. This combination simplifies device management for modern, geographically dispersed teams. Each device is fitted with Singtel’s 5G+ eSIM during production, ensuring secure connectivity straight out of the box. The intelligent management platform automatically activates 5G connectivity according to company policies, enabling IT teams to manage devices, monitor usage, and optimize the employee experience throughout the device’s lifecycle.

    Addressing Hybrid Work Challenges

    With 76% of employers in Singapore transitioning to hybrid work models, concerns about connectivity, security, and IT complexity have emerged. Singtel’s 5G+ Mobile Workspace addresses these concerns by offering a secure, intelligent mobility platform that supports cloud-native, AI-driven applications on a large scale.

    Benefits of the 5G+ Mobile Workspace

    The 5G+ Mobile Workspace provides flexible, secure, and cost-effective real-time communications, including voice, messaging, and video, without the need for additional infrastructure investment. Security is enhanced through SingVerify and Mobile Protect, which authenticate digital identities and block threats before they reach users’ devices, even when abroad.

    Enterprise Mobility Management

    Singtel’s unified dashboard allows IT teams to have full visibility and control over enterprise mobility. From a single interface, teams can monitor device usage, enforce compliance, allocate resources, and apply access policies by app, user, or location. This efficient approach eliminates the need for on-site infrastructure and simplifies operations across distributed workforces.

    The platform also supports the direct activation of advanced network services like network slicing, which facilitates high-speed data transfer and real-time analytics.

    5G+ Coverage and Performance

    Singtel’s nationwide 5G+ coverage, including the 700 MHz spectrum, ensures stronger indoor connectivity, ultra-low latency, and speeds up to four times faster. Singtel has demonstrated the scalability of its 5G+ network at high-traffic events, maintaining seamless connectivity even during peak demand.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of the Ericsson Enterprise Virtual Cellular Network?
    The Ericsson Enterprise Virtual Cellular Network automates eSIM profile management. This allows for zero-touch provisioning and secure access to corporate applications from almost any location.

    How does the 5G+ Workspace benefit distributed teams?
    The 5G+ Workspace simplifies device management for modern, geographically dispersed teams. It automatically activates 5G connectivity according to company policies, enabling IT teams to manage devices, monitor usage, and optimize the employee experience throughout the device’s lifecycle.

    What security measures does Singtel’s 5G+ Mobile Workspace offer?
    The 5G+ Mobile Workspace enhances security through SingVerify, which authenticates digital identities, and Mobile Protect, a network-level defense that blocks threats before they reach users’ devices, even when users are abroad.