APAC cities continue to be some of the world’s most connected and prominent as emerging hubs in South Asia gain ground
Asia Pacific (APAC) cities, spearheaded by Tokyo, Beijing, Singapore, Melbourne, and Hong Kong, continue to assert their influence as some of the world’s most connected and prominent urban centers, according to Kearney’s 2023 Global Cities Report. The report reveals that APAC maintains a strong foothold in the top 10 of its Global Cities Index (GCI), claiming five coveted spots.
Sohar Port and Freezone Pioneers Oman’s Path to Carbon Neutrality with SOHAR Net Zero Alliance
Sohar Port and Freezone (SOHAR), a key player in Oman’s thriving industrial landscape, has taken a meaningful step towards accelerating the nation’s transition to carbon neutrality by 2050. In a groundbreaking move, SOHAR has officially introduced the SOHAR Net Zero Alliance, a collaborative initiative that brings together its industrial tenants to pursue a sustainable, carbon-neutral […]
Safecom Mobile and Durabook Forge Powerful Distribution Partnership
Safecom Mobile and Durabook have joined forces, creating a dynamic collaboration that capitalises on their unique strengths. This strategic alliance is positioned to meet the growing demand for rugged tablets and laptops in Southeast Asia, encompassing Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia, and the Philippines. With a strong focus on quality, responsive technical support, and proactive sales services, Durabook’s products are poised for expansion through Safecom Mobile’s expertise.
Lenskart Partners with ETML to Boost Middle East Expansion
Eyewear retail giant Lenskart has joined forces with ETML, a growth advertising and analytics firm, to enhance its performance marketing efforts in the Middle East. With a focus on data and analytics, ETML aims to deliver significant value to Lenskart as the brand expands its international footprint. Aina Garg, Managing Director-Middle East at Lenskart, expressed optimism about achieving marketing goals through this partnership. Lenskart, known for its tech-driven approach, operates over 2000 physical stores, including 500 abroad, reflecting its commitment to global growth.
Brazil-Arab Trade Continues to Flourish, Bilateral Commerce Hits $10.61 Billion in 2023
Brazil’s robust trade relationship with the Arab world is flourishing, as evident from an eight percent surge in Brazilian exports to Arab nations during the first seven months of 2023. The Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) reported that this growth has led to a total trade value of $10.61 billion, showcasing the strong economic ties between the two regions. Key trade partners, such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have significantly contributed to this growth, with exports reaching $1.873 billion and $1.646 billion, respectively. The ABCC’s role in fostering this collaboration and promoting bilateral economic cooperation has driven this growth.
ACWA Power-led Consortium’s $2.4 Billion Al-Shuaibah Solar Projects Set to Energize Saudi Arabia
ACWA Power’s $2.4 billion Al-Shuaibah solar projects have brought Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy aspirations to the forefront. Led by ACWA Power, in collaboration with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Saudi Aramco subsidiaries, the financial closure signifies a significant step towards a sustainable energy future. With Al Shuaibah 1 and Al Shuaibah 2 solar PV projects boasting a combined capacity of over 2.6 GW, they hold the potential to power nearly 450,000 households and significantly reduce carbon emissions. The commitment of key financial institutions, like First Abu Dhabi Bank and Standard Chartered Bank, reflects the growing synergy between private and public sectors in advancing clean energy projects. As the projects gear up for commercial operations in 2025, Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in the global renewable energy landscape is further solidified.
US-ASEAN Business Council and Philippines Forge Defense Partnership Amidst Rising Tensions
The United States-Asean Business Council (US-ABC) is taking a proactive stance by engaging in a collaborative effort with the Philippines to enhance the nation’s defense capabilities amidst growing tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Discussions involving Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. and the US-ABC delegation, led by President and CEO Ted Osius, have explored various avenues of cooperation to strengthen defense and security sectors. This strategic move aligns with the US-ABC’s commitment to fostering partnerships between the US and ASEAN nations, from cybersecurity and healthcare initiatives to technological advancements and sustainable energy solutions. The initiative addresses immediate security concerns and emphasizes the significance of international collaborations in maintaining stability and innovation in a complex geopolitical landscape.
BPI’s Vybe E-Wallet Emerges as a Game-Changer in the Philippine Banking Landscape
BPI, the Bank of the Philippine Islands, aims for exponential growth with the launch of Vybe, its innovative mobile wallet. The Ayala Group-owned bank plans to attract over 50 million customers by 2028, leveraging Vybe’s convenient payments and rewards system. As the banking sector thrives amidst rising interest rates, BPI reports a record-breaking net income of P39.6 billion in 2022. With the official release scheduled for October, Vybe will compete with other e-wallets like GCash, further enriching the digital banking landscape in the Philippines. BPI’s strategic approach to digital expansion positions them as a leader in the country’s financial sector.
Gulf Bank Partners with Coursera to Foster Employee Development and Achieve Talent Transformation
Gulf Bank and Coursera join forces to unlock boundless possibilities for employee growth and development. By teaming up with one of the world’s largest online learning platforms, Gulf Bank is empowering its workforce with access to a treasure trove of knowledge and prestigious certifications. This exciting collaboration sets the stage for a transformational journey, where employees can embrace lifelong learning and stay ahead in an ever-evolving business landscape. With interactive features and a wide range of courses, Coursera brings learning to life, enabling Gulf Bank’s employees to acquire new skills and achieve their professional aspirations. Together, Gulf Bank and Coursera are redefining the concept of employee development and propelling Kuwait’s banking industry toward a prosperous future.
Sound Energy Partners with Calvalley Petroleum for Tendrara Exploitation in Morocco
Sound Energy PLC has signed a significant agreement with Calvalley Petroleum Ltd to secure funding for exploration operations in Morocco’s Tendrara exploration permit area. This partnership is a major step forward for Sound Energy’s development of the Tendrara gas field. Under the agreement, Calvalley Petroleum will provide substantial funding, enabling Sound Energy to advance its exploration activities and expedite development. With Calvalley Petroleum’s full funding for the TE-4 Horst Well, this collaboration highlights the confidence in Sound Energy’s capabilities and the project’s potential. The partnership with Calvalley Petroleum and Sound Energy’s stake in the drilling permit showcases a balanced collaboration between international companies and Moroccan authorities. The extended negotiation period for financing the gas production associated with the Tendrara license further emphasizes the commitment to securing favorable financial arrangements. This collaboration holds significant implications for the energy sector in Morocco, contributing to the country’s energy security, economic growth, and regional leadership in the energy market.
