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Smart Mobility, Seamless Journeys: APAS Leads a New Era for “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles”

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 January 2025 – The Transport Department of the HKSAR Government recently announced an increase in the daily processing capacity for “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles”, raising the limit from 400 to 500 applications per working day, reflecting a growing demand in the market. Automotive Platforms and Application Systems (APAS) R&D Centre has been actively working with professional institutions, industry stakeholders, and technical organisations in Mainland to enhance cooperation regarding the “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” initiative. APAS is also exploring the standardisation of electric vehicles (EV) adapters for use in Mainland, aiming to establish a series of safety guidelines for manufacturers and users to ensure that the charging adapters on the market in the market meet safety requirements.

Urgent Demand for EV Charging Adapters

As electric vehicles become more prevalent in Hong Kong, one of the main concerns for car owners driving their EVs to the Mainland is the compatibility of charging equipment. Since most electric vehicles in Hong Kong use Combined Charging System 2 (CCS2), while Mainland uses the GB/T Charging Standard. This results in differences in charging interfaces and communication systems, necessitating the use of additional charging adapters when charging abroad. Suitable charging adaptors are scarce, as there is only a limited number of suppliers offering fast-charging adapters, with prices ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of Hong Kong dollars. However, the specifications of charging adapters in Mainland vary, and even with a fast-charging adapter, it may not provide the proper charging power for the vehicle.

Safety Hazards of Uncertified EV Charging Adapters

APAS has repeatedly alerted car owners about the safety risks associated with uncertified charging facilities. The high DC power, voltage, and current involved in fast-charging electric vehicles present significant hazards. Using non-compliant adapters may cause malfunctions or fire risks. In response to these issues, APAS has been dedicated to research and development in the fields of intelligent connected vehicles and new energy vehicles. Through collaboration and communication with professional organisations, industry stakeholders, and technical institutions, APAS aims to provide higher-quality service and support to car owners in both Mainland and Hong Kong.

Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Executive Officer of APAS, remarked, “In recent years, significant improvements in infrastructure have made cross-border travel for ‘Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles’ more convenient. The HKSAR Government’s recent decision to increase the daily processing capacity of applications to 500 demonstrates the growing demand. As the number of electric vehicles continues to rise, drivers need to understand and adapt to the traffic regulations and charging interface standards of both Hong Kong and the Mainland. To address this, APAS has developed specialised charging adapters to ensure a seamless charging experience for drivers. We look forward to using this initiative to promote innovative technology and sustainable development, contributing to Hong Kong’s efforts in building a smart city.”

Industry Experts’ Insights

As the Lunar New Year approaches, many Hong Kong residents may plan to drive to Mainland to celebrate the festive season. In response, APAS’ experts are providing a comprehensive analysis of the latest “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” policy and important guidelines. Additionally, industry specialists from the automotive and insurance sectors have been invited to share their professional insights.

Mr Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group, noted, “With the growing presence of electric vehicles in the market, the variety of charging connectors and adapter options has significantly expanded. We are delighted to see APAS taking the lead as an industry pioneer, focusing on the development of EV charging adapters. I look forward to seeing more groundbreaking research from APAS in the future, contributing to the advancement of the industry and enhancing the consumer experience.”

Moreover, Mr Harley KWAN, President of Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association shared that there are significant differences between the automotive insurance systems in Mainland and Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, car insurance typically focuses on third-party liability coverage, with a wide range of insurance products available, allowing consumers to choose based on their individual needs. In contrast, the insurance system in Mainland is more standardised, with a greater emphasis on comprehensiveness, and differing regulations regarding coverage amounts and claims procedures. He stated, ” With the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies, the insurance industry must adapt to new challenges. We are committed to working closely with relevant organisations to ensure that electric vehicle owners receive comprehensive coverage, supporting the healthy growth of the market.” As such, Hong Kong residents should prepare ahead of time before driving to Mainland, familiarising themselves with the differences in insurance policies between the two places to ensure they are fully protected while also safeguarding others.

Future Regulations for Charging Adapters

In response to the regulations surrounding charging adapters, APAS plans to establish a set of guidelines aimed at enhancing the safety and convenience of charging systems, ensuring that vehicle owners enjoy the best possible experience. APAS is committed to more standardised management of charging adapters in the future to safeguard the safety of car owners. The goal is to further improve the driving experience and enable more private car owners to enjoy convenient and safe cross-border travel services.

Download High-Resolution Photos HERE

Photo 1:
In his welcome speech, Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Executive Officer of APAS, highlighted that with the continuous increase in the number of electric vehicles, it is important for owners to understand the differences in traffic regulations and charging interface standards between the Mainland and Hong Kong. To address this, APAS has developed a specialised charging adapter to ensure that vehicle owners can seamlessly use charging facilities. APAS looks forward to promoting innovative technology and sustainable development through this event and contributing to the development of a smart city in Hong Kong.

Photo 2:
Mr Ralph Xu, Head of Green Transportation of APAS discusses the regulations and requirements for electric vehicle charging adapters and demonstrates the electric vehicle charging adapter equipment.

Photo 3:
Mr Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group and Mr Harley KWAN, President of the Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association, shares insights on the impact of “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles”. They discussed the claims procedures for Hong Kong vehicle owners involved in accidents in the Mainland and offered valuable suggestions for future collaboration between the industry and APAS.

Photo 4:
(From Left) Mr Harley KWAN, President of the Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association, Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Executive Officer of APAS and Mr Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group shared the latest policy and the insurance about the “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles”.

Photo 5:
(From Left) Mr Harley KWAN, President of the Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association, Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Executive Officer of APAS, Mr Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group and Mr Ralph Xu, Head of Green Transportation of APAS.

About APAS Electric Vehicle Charging Adapters Specifications:

Model Specifications
System Parameters
Rated Power 150Kw
Rated Voltage 1000V
Voltage Range 200-1000V
Current 250A
Protection Rating IP54
Input Interface GB/T 20234.3-2015
Output Interface CCS Type 2 (IEC 62196-3 Combo)
Environmental Conditions
Operating Temperature -10°C to 40°C
Storage Temperature -40°C to 70°C
Relative Humidity 0-95%
Other
Dimensions 306X92X122 mm
Net Weight < 1.5kg

Hashtag: #APAS

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

About Automotive Platforms and Application Systems R&D Centre (APAS)

The Automotive Platforms and Application Systems R&D Centre (APAS) was established under the R&D Centre Programme of the Innovation and Technology Commission and is hosted by the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC). APAS will be fully integrated under HKPC on 1 April 2025. The Centre continues to undertake market-led R&D programmes spanning green transportation, smart mobility, and intelligent systems, as well as commercialises R&D results in collaboration with industry, universities and technology institutes to enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s automotive and other transportation sectors in new energy and smart driving.

About Hong Kong Productivity Council

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a multi-disciplinary organisation established by statute in 1967, to promote productivity excellence through relentless drive of world-class advanced technologies and innovative service offerings to support Hong Kong enterprises. As a nationwide leader in innovative, market-driven research and development (R&D) internationally, specialising in leading technologies and all-rounded manufacturing services, HKPC promotes new industrialisation in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area and facilitates the development of new productive forces, leveraging innovation and technology (I&T), as well as bolstering Hong Kong to be an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city. The Council offers comprehensive innovative solutions for Hong Kong industries and enterprises, enabling them to achieve resources and productivity utilisation, effectiveness and cost reduction, and enhance competitiveness in both local and overseas marketplace. The Council partners and collaborates with local industries and enterprises and world-class R&D institutes to develop applied technology solutions for value creation. It also benefits a variety of sectors through product innovation, technology transfer, and commercialisation, bringing enormous business opportunities ahead. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades.

In addition, HKPC offers SMEs and startups immediate and timely assistance in coping with the ever-changing business environment, and strengthens talent nurturing and Hong Kong’s competitiveness with FutureSkills training for enterprises and academia to enhance digital capabilities and STEM competencies.

For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: .

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Public Invited to Tour New Phnom Penh Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

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PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is inviting the public to celebrate the completion of the Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple, and to tour the new temple. This sacred house of worship is the first Latter-day Saint temple in the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple – the first temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cambodia.

The First Presidency of the Church has announced that open house tours will run from Saturday, 15 August 2026, to Saturday, 22 August 2026, except on Sunday. The open house provides all people of all faiths the opportunity to tour the temple’s beautiful interior and grounds and learn about the purpose of this sacred structure.

Open house tours will be conducted:

  • Saturdays, 15 & 22 August: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
  • Monday–Friday, 17–21 August: 4:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, 16 August: No tours available.

The temple is located on Russian Federation Boulevard Phnom Penh 12040, on a 1.3-hectare site. Tours are free, and no reservations are needed. More information is available at https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/featured/phnom-penh-cambodia-open-house?lang=eng

Elder Eng Bunhuoch, an Area Seventy and senior leader of the Church in Cambodia, said, “The Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple is a testament to the enduring faith of our Cambodian members and will serve as a focal point of spiritual growth for many years to come. It is more than a building; it is a sacred space that symbolizes our commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the eternal nature of families.

“We invite all to come, learn, and walk with us in our holy temple. You can experience our impression of heaven on earth and the special feelings that exist in the House of the Lord. In this temple, you will feel peace, receive inspiration, feel His love, and draw closer to Him. Our members open their arms to you and invite everyone to share the joy we feel in the temple.”

Following the public open house, the temple will be formally dedicated on Sunday, 30 August 2026. The open house presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all members of the public to enter and tour the temple prior to its dedication. After the dedication, the temple grounds will remain open to visitors; however, entry into the temple itself will be reserved for faithful members of the Church.

There are nearly 18,000 members of the Church in Cambodia. The temple will serve Church members in Cambodia and parts of Vietnam.

The architecture of the temple is inspired by traditional Khmer design elements and cultural heritage, with a central spire surrounded by four smaller spires.

The temple was announced by Church President Russell M. Nelson on 7 October 2018. Groundbreaking was held 18 September 2021, with the dedicatory prayer offered by Cambodia Phnom Penh Mission President Veasna Kuonno Neang.

Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints differ from meetinghouses or chapels, where members gather for Sunday worship services. Each temple is considered a House of the Lord, where Jesus Christ’s teachings are reaffirmed through sacred ceremonies that unite families eternally.

In the temple, Church members learn more about the purpose of life. They learn where we came from before birth, why we are on this earth, and what will happen after we die. In the temple, members make promises to follow Jesus Christ and to serve others.

Hashtag: #PhnomPenhCambodiaTemple #CambodiaTemple #TempleOpenHouse #HouseOfTheLord #ComeAndSee #ChurchofJesusChrist #LatterDaySaints #JesusChrist #LDS


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

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a worldwide Christian faith of nearly 18 million members, centered on the belief that all people are children of a loving God and that Jesus Christ is the Savior of mankind. Its mission is to bring people to Christ through learning His gospel, making special promises, and practicing love and service.

Members help others by living Christ’s teachings, caring for those in need, inviting all to receive the gospel, and uniting families eternally through temple work. Members are encouraged to be law-abiding, patriotic citizens who love and support their families, creating strong communities and a peaceful society.

The Church has more than 30,000 congregations in more than 160 countries, led by volunteer local leaders.

The Church offers resources in more than 110 languages, operates universities, and has a large humanitarian aid program. It has completed more than 670 humanitarian projects in Cambodia. The Church was restored in 1830 by Joseph Smith after a divine visitation. The Book of Mormon, a sacred record, complements the Bible, testifying of Jesus Christ’s divinity.

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Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia Draws First-Time Exhibitors from Four Continents as Asia’s Growing Seafood Demand Brings Global Industry to Singapore

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New national pavilions, first-time exhibitors spanning wild-capture fisheries to smart aquaculture technology, and a dedicated Seafood Processing Asia showcase the growing appetite for global suppliers to build strategic relationships across Asia

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia, organized by Diversified, will take place 2–4 September 2026 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore. Seafood suppliers from around the world and across the supply chain will converge to debut products, build relationships and learn about the industry’s most timely opportunities and challenges. First-time exhibitors and new national and regional pavilions spanning four continents signal the importance of the event in positioning them strategically at the center of Asia’s growing marketplace.

Courtesy of Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia

“Seafood Expo Asia is an important platform for the B.C. Dive Fisheries to continue to strengthen our relationships with buyers across Southeast Asia,” said Lawrence Anderson, Director of Pacific Sea Cucumber and Urchin Harvesters Associations (Canada). “It’s an excellent platform to showcase our sustainably harvested premium quality seafood products.”

New Regional and National Pavilions Demonstrating Global Influence

New regional and national pavilions with a growing number of companies will take advantage of the growing demand for seafood across Asia and connect suppliers across the supply chain with buyers in Asia. New pavilions to this year’s event include British Columbia Government (Canada), Jeju Technopark (South Korea), Ministero dell’Agricoltura della Sovranità Alimentare e delle Foreste (MASAF) (Italy) and The French Chamber of Commerce Singapore (France/Singapore).

Returning pavilions include Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (United States), Beijing Yinqicheng International Exhibition Co., Ltd. (China), CAPPMA (China), Dalian Huihetong Exhibition & Display Co., Ltd (China), Food Export USA – Northeast (United States), Hainan Fuchang Exhibition Service Co., Ltd (China), Japan Farmed Fish Export Association (Japan), Kochi Seafood Export Promotion Association (Japan), National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives (South Korea), Seafood Industries Association Singapore (Singapore), Southern United States Trade Association – SUSTA (United States) and Valuedshow Management LLC (China).

New Exhibitors From Around the World

Beyond pavilions, first-time exhibitors are arriving from Ecuador, Chile, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia and China, adding new voices, products and solutions to the exhibit hall. Blumar Asia Ltd, the Asia arm of Chile’s Blumar, will exhibit fresh and frozen Chilean Atlantic salmon alongside its jack mackerel and fishmeal lines. Jeju Technopark, a South Korean government-backed research and innovation center, develops smart land-based aquaculture technology for seaweed and laver cultivation using Jeju Island’s mineral-rich lava seawater. Xinjiang Tianyun Organic Agriculture Co., Ltd. farms salmon and trout at a base fed by glacial water in the Tianshan Mountains and holds BRC Global Food Safety and NSF antibiotic-free product certifications. Foodman Optoelectronic (Zhongshan) Co., Ltd. specializes in food safety and quality-control equipment for seafood processing, including X-ray inspection systems that detect fish bones and foreign objects on the line.

From Ocean to Table: A Full Supply Chain Event

Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia is deliberately designed to reflect the full breath of the seafood industry. Alongside the new exhibitors, returning participants include AquaChile, Austral Fisheries, Vinh Hoan Corporation, Marennes Oleron Oyster PGI and Omarsa S.A., among others. Processing equipment and solutions companies — including BAADER, Gucheng Shouan New Material Technology, Guy Cotten and Silikal GmbH — ensure that buyers sourcing automation, packaging, cold chain and aquaculture infrastructure reach their business goals in one location.

The 2026 exhibit hall will feature all types of seafood products — fresh, frozen, canned, preserved, value-added, processed and packaged — alongside solutions spanning processing and automation, aquaculture systems, cold chain infrastructure and advanced packaging. This full-spectrum lineup means that a hotel procurement manager, a supermarket buyer, a processing plant manager and a hatchery operator can each attend the same event and leave with new suppliers and new partnerships.

Business Matchmaking, New Products and Educational Opportunities

Beyond the exhibit hall, the event delivers a full program of business opportunities. Qualified high-volume importers and retail/foodservice buyers can participate in the Business Matchmaking Program, which facilitates structured, pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings with exhibiting suppliers. The Seafood Excellence Asia Awards, the expo’s product competition, celebrates the best new seafood products on the market, giving innovative suppliers direct visibility with buyers and press at an evening reception.

An educational conference will bring together industry leaders to address seafood consumption trends and market outlook, AI in the supply chain, sustainability certification, RAS fish farming, processing trends across Asia and more. Rounding out the experience, live culinary demonstrations and open product tastings will bring seafood to life on the event floor, connecting buyers directly with the products they are sourcing.

Learn More & Register to Attend

Seafood industry professionals can learn more about Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia, find information on the conference program and other special events, and register to attend for free by visiting www.seafoodexpo.com/asia.

To register as media/press, please visit the press center.

Hashtag: #SEASIA26

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

About Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia

is a trade event where buyers from across Asia and industry suppliers from around the world come together to network and conduct business in the lucrative Asian market. The event is produced by Diversified and takes place annually in Asia. SeafoodSource is the exposition’s official media covering industry news year-round.

Follow on Social
LinkedIn @Seafood Expo Asia
Instagram @seafoodexpoasia
Facebook @SeafoodExpoAsia

About Diversified

Diversified is a global B2B events and media company that strengthens business communities by fostering a space, in person and online, for professionals and businesses to connect and grow. The company serves as a trusted partner across several industries including active lifestyle, business management, clean energy, commercial marine, healthcare, seafood, technology and more. The company’s global seafood portfolio of expositions and media includes Seafood Expo North America/Seafood Processing North America, Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global, Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia and SeafoodSource.com. Established in 1949 and headquartered in Portland, Maine, the global company has divisions and offices around the world in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. Diversified is a third-generation, family-owned business. For more information, visit: .

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High Gold Prices Drive Demand for Jewelry Appraisals as Jewel Cafe Opens Tsuen Wan Store

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Newly opened Tsuen Wan OP Mall store offers free appraisals of gold, jewelry, luxury watches, and branded goods with no obligation to sell

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – Following a record-breaking year for gold prices in 2025, more people are seeking to understand the value of jewelry, precious metals, luxury watches, and branded goods. Against this backdrop, Japanese-founded specialty buying brand Jewel Cafe has opened its Tsuen Wan OP Mall store, expanding its presence in Hong Kong.

According to the World Gold Council, the LBMA afternoon gold price set 53 new all-time highs during 2025. The annual average gold price reached a record USD 3,431 per ounce, up 44% from the previous year.

In Hong Kong, gold jewelry has traditionally been associated with weddings, Lunar New Year celebrations, and family occasions. Many households own jewelry that is no longer worn. As interest in understanding the value of these items grows, more consumers are seeking appraisal services before deciding whether to keep or sell them.

At Jewel Cafe, customers are welcomed with Japanese-style hospitality. Friendly and experienced staff clearly explain each appraisal, helping customers make informed decisions at their own pace. Every consultation is free of charge, with no obligation to sell.

The Tsuen Wan store joins Jewel Cafe’s existing locations in Mong Kok and North Point, making it the brand’s third store in Hong Kong. Combining Japanese appraisal expertise with customer-first hospitality, Jewel Cafe provides a trusted buying experience across Hong Kong.

Store Information

Jewel Cafe 荃灣海之戀
Address: Shop 2043A, 2/F, OP Mall, 100 Tai Ho Road, Tsuen Wan, New Territories, Hong Kong
Business Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Closed: Open daily
Services:
Free appraisals for gold, platinum, jewelry, luxury watches, branded bags, and other valuables. No appointment is required. Walk-ins welcome.

Website:
https://jewel-cafe.hk
Hashtag: #JewelCafe #Gold #HongKong #TsuenWan #GoldPrice #Jewelry #LuxuryResale #FreeAppraisal



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

Jewel Cafe

Jewel Cafe is operated by Crane Co., Ltd., established in Tokyo in 2005. With more than 300 stores across Japan and overseas, Jewel Cafe specializes in the purchase of precious metals, branded goods, luxury watches, and diamond jewelry, offering free appraisals in a welcoming, no-obligation environment. For more information:

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