Media OutReach

Preview of the 2025 CIFTIS: Key Highlights Revealed in Advance

Published

4 months ago

25/08/2025

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 August 2025 – The Shougang Park, a former industrial site transformed into an “urban showcase,” will welcome the 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services (2025 CIFTIS) this September. The annual theme of this year’s event is “Embrace Intelligent Technologies, Empower Trade in Services,” with over 800 companies already expressing interest in participating offline.

The Shougang Park, photographed on August 11 by Zhang Chenlin, Xinhua News Agency.

With less than a month remaining before the opening of CIFTIS, how are preparations progressing, and what new highlights can be expected from the exhibitions? Reporters conducted on-site visits for a closer look.

More Open: New Entry Policies to Facilitate International Engagement

It was learned that exhibitor recruitment for both the thematic and specialized exhibitions has been largely completed. Nearly 70 countries and international organizations have indicated their intention to participate by setting up booths or hosting events. The nine major specialized exhibitions have attracted interest from more than 800 companies to exhibit offline, including over 330 Fortune Global 500 companies and leading industry enterprises. The overall internationalization rate of the exhibition exceeds 20%, covering 24 of the top 30 countries and regions in global service trade.

Yang Huasen, Spokesperson of Beichen Group, stated that over 170 forums, conferences, and promotional events have already been scheduled. More than 70 companies, including Schneider Electric, have applied to release over 130 new products and achievements during the event.

To further facilitate international engagement, this year’s CIFTIS continues to expand on entry facilitation measures initiated last year, such as setting up immigration service counters at the venue. This year, seven new convenience measures will be implemented, including: allowing foreign participants with official invitations to apply for port visas at Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport; offering online accommodation registration services for foreign visitors; and streamlining the business travel filing process for Chinese enterprises attending events in Hong Kong and Macau.

Australia, as the guest of honor country, will have an unprecedented exhibition scale at this year’s event. Nearly 60 institutions and enterprises will form the Australian National Pavilion. Daniela Assis, the Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Australian Embassy in China, expressed: “The bilateral trade relationship between Australia and China is marked by strong complementarity, with stable cultural ties and significant achievements in cooperation across various fields. Australia is honored to be the guest of honor at the 2025 CIFTIS and looks forward to more communication and exchanges with attendees and visitors.”

Dale Pinto, the Global President and Chairman of the Board of CPA Australia, remarked, “CIFTIS provides a platform for us to enhance our brand recognition, engage with other organizations, and explore new cooperation opportunities. Participation in the fair not only raises the visibility of CPA Australia but also strengthens our relationship with Chinese partners, laying a solid foundation for future development.”

More Focused: From “Two Venues” to “One Unified Venue”

In contrast to previous CIFTIS events, which were held at both the National Convention Center and Shougang Park, this year’s event will be held entirely at Shougang Park in Shijingshan District, Beijing. Since CIFTIS moved to Shougang Park in 2021, the venue has fostered a new ecosystem for integrated consumption across culture, business, sports, tourism, and entertainment, covering the full spectrum of “eat, stay, travel, shop, and enjoy.”

Jiang Nan, Deputy General Manager of Shougang Group Co., Ltd., explained that Shougang Park will fully host CIFTIS activities this year. The core exhibition area will exceed 100,000 square meters, with green spaces and public areas also open to the public. These spaces are designed to foster human-to-human and human-to-scene interactions, enhancing the overall attendee experience. “We are upgrading Shougang Park to version 5.0 for the fair, planning a convention town, and creating a new exhibition ecosystem by integrating the ‘Two Parks and One River’.”

*The CIFTIS mascot “Fu Yan,” photographed on August 11 by Zhang Chenlin, Xinhua News Agency, at the 2025 CIFTIS media briefing.*

In addition to optimizing and upgrading the spatial layout, Shougang Park has also introduced a double-decker sightseeing bus and enhanced the night view framework of “Two Axes—Two Zones—Two Lakes—Multiple Centers.” Scenic viewpoints will be established to meet the quick transfer and sightseeing needs of visitors. The Shougang Park Operations Service Center has integrated data on foot traffic, vehicle flow, and other aspects of the exhibition area, enabling centralized scheduling and further improving service quality.

Hu Hao, Deputy District Governor of Shijingshan District, explained that the district has fully coordinated local resources, driving improvements with a dual approach of technology and services. Focus is being placed on key areas such as transportation, accommodation, and dining to enhance support capabilities. “There are currently 72 specialty restaurants around Shougang Park. During CIFTIS, temporary commercial facilities will be added in areas like Gaoxian Park and the Ski Jump site to meet the diverse dining needs of attendees.”

More Integrated: Multi-faceted Integration of Culture, Business, Tourism, and Sports Creates Diverse Consumption Scenarios

Beijing is also leveraging the CIFTIS platform to create diverse service consumption scenarios. Wan Weiwei, Deputy Director of the Beijing International Trade in Services Affairs Center, noted: “By emphasizing interactive experiences, CIFTIS will integrate service consumption with culture, business, and tourism, using unique venues such as blast furnaces to host engaging activities.”

Lin Zengwei, Second-Level Inspector at the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, added that over 40 supporting events will be held across Beijing, including cultural tourism and sports activities. At the heart of this is Shougang Park, which will host 11 unique activities, such as events at Big Air Shougang, to further enrich sectors like “ticket-stub economy” and “night economy.”

During CIFTIS, business negotiations, exploring the history of the Beijing West Ancient Path, and enjoying the Olympic spirit at Big Air Shougang… The “Big Air Shougang—Moshikou Camel Caravan Road—Shougang Industrial Heritage” Themed Tourism Route in Western Beijing is being planned to integrate culture, tourism, and consumption. During the event, Beijing will organize business inspection tours for exhibitors and visitors, focusing on areas such as technological empowerment, investment promotion, industrial tourism, cultural heritage, and the night economy. Around 10 business inspection routes will be designed and launched.

To strengthen the interconnection between CIFTIS and the surrounding areas, Shijingshan District will also open a special driverless transport service, connecting the exhibition area with the Yongding River waterfront. This initiative is part of a broader effort to connect the fair with surrounding cultural and ecological attractions. Projects like the Xishan Yongding River Cultural Belt Greenway in Shijingshan will be showcased before the fair opens, providing an enhanced visitor experience and easier access to cultural and natural attractions.
Hashtag: #CIFTIS

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

Media OutReach

Payment Options Singapore Secures In-Principle Approval from MAS for Major Payment Institution Licence

Published

18 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – Payment Options Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based payment solutions provider, is pleased to announce that it has received In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for a Major Payment Institution (MPI) licence under the Payment Services Act 2019.

Payment Options Pte Ltd office in Singapore

This milestone underscores Payment Options’ commitment to supporting Singapore’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with simple, secure, and accessible digital payment solutions.

If granted the licence, Payment Options Pte Ltd will be authorised to provide three regulated payment services: Merchant Acquisition, Domestic Money Transfer, and Cross-Border Money Transfer. Through these services, the company aims to empower SMEs with a full suite of payment capabilities — from online payment gateways and QR code payments to the upcoming SoftPOS payments technology — enabling merchants to accept digital payments easily and securely.

“We remain deeply committed to supporting Singapore’s SMEs as they grow and compete in an increasingly digital-first economy. Our vision is to position digital payments as a growth enabler — not a challenge — for small businesses”, said Aaron Yip, Director of Payment Options Pte Ltd. “Our goal is to make digital transactions seamless, secure, and accessible for every business, regardless of size.”

Building on this vision, if the licence is granted, Payment Options will continue to work closely with local merchants, financial institutions, and technology partners to enhance payment accessibility and drive innovation across Singapore’s SME ecosystem.

“We reaffirm our commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation, as we contribute to Singapore’s ongoing journey toward a secure, inclusive, and cash-lite economy.”

The IPA granted by the MAS indicates that a licence may be issued upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. The IPA does not constitute a licence to provide payment services at this stage, and MAS reserves the right to rescind the approval if it deems appropriate.
Hashtag: #PaymentOptions

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

About Payment Options Pte Ltd

Payment Options Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based financial technology company providing innovative and secure payment solutions designed to help SMEs and merchants simplify digital transactions. With a focus on compliance, technology, and customer experience, the company aims to make digital payments accessible for every business.

Media OutReach

Financial Assistance at SIM: Breaking Barriers to Education

Published

19 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – For many aspiring learners, financial constraints remain one of the biggest obstacles to achieving their goals. SIM is determined to change that. Guided by the principle that no student should be left behind because of cost, SIM has built a comprehensive ecosystem of financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries to make quality education attainable for all.

At the heart of this mission is the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to empowering students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that financial hardship never stands in the way of academic or personal growth. By blending need-based assistance with merit-driven opportunities, SIM is creating an inclusive learning environment where talent and ambition define success.

Empowering Learners Through the SIM Impact Fund

In 2024, SIM introduced the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to supporting students from lower-income households and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder educational aspirations. Administered through SIM Trust, the fund is designed to empower learners within and beyond SIM’s community by removing barriers to access. Beginning in 2025, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with a per-capita income of S$1,750 or below can benefit from tiered assistance, ranging from S$6,000 up to S$13,500 for those with PCI of S$600 or less, S$4,500 to S$6,750 for PCI between S$601 and S$1,000, and S$2,000 for PCI between S$1,001 and S$1,750. Beyond tuition aid, the fund also provides support for overseas internships and merit-based scholarships, benefiting approximately 500 students annually.

Beyond Tuition: Comprehensive Financial Aid

SIM’s commitment to learning accessibility goes far beyond tuition subsidies. Through its Financial Assistance schemes, students can tap into a range of support options tailored to different needs. These include Enhanced Bursaries Aid, which provide up to S$13,500 per year for Singapore Citizens, and a SIM GE Crisis Fund offering emergency relief of up to S$5,000 for unforeseen circumstances. In addition, SIM encourages global exposure through Study Abroad Awards, enabling students to broaden their horizons without financial strain. Together, these initiatives reflect SIM’s ethos of inclusivity and resilience, ensuring that financial challenges never derail academic aspirations.

Community-Focused Support

The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) exemplifies SIM’s deep-rooted commitment to community empowerment and social impact. Launched in July 2024 in partnership with the late Dr Eu’s family,

RESSEC received a combined S$8 million donation, S$6 million from the Eu family and S$2 million from SIM, marking a significant investment in nurturing social entrepreneurship. Guided by Dr Eu’s vision of transforming social service through ethical leadership and innovation, the Centre equips learners and social service professionals via initiatives such as a specialised postgraduate Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship, mentorship, and collaborative dialogues.

RESSEC also provides 12 bursaries of S$10,000 each for SIM Global Education students (check that this is accurate and that it’s not also extended to those outside the SIM ecosystem) who demonstrate strong community service and leadership and those with per-capita income up to S$1,750, prioritising those with per-capita income less than S$1,000. Through this initiative, SIM embeds purpose-driven learning into its mission, empowering students to create sustainable, positive impact in Singapore and beyond

Scholarship for Excellence

SIM offers a diverse range of scholarships under SIM Global Education to recognize excellence and resilience among its students. These include the SIM STARRR Award, which provides up to S$36,000 to outstanding achievers who demonstrate academic distinction and leadership qualities, and the Sports & Arts Talent Award, also valued at S$15,000 for students who excel in athletic or artistic pursuits. Additionally, the Chairman’s Award for Resilience grants S$3,000 to students who successfully balance work and study commitments, showcasing perseverance in the face of challenges. Together, these scholarships complement SIM’s need-based financial aid, creating a holistic support system that rewards merit while ensuring inclusivity.

Conclusion: Building a Future Without Barriers

SIM’s financial assistance framework is more than a set of policies, it is a promise to the community. By investing in initiatives like the SIM Impact Fund and expanding bursaries and scholarships, SIM is actively dismantling the barriers that prevent talented individuals from reaching their potential. This approach does not just benefit students, it strengthens society by cultivating a diverse pool of graduates equipped to lead, innovate, and give back. In a world where education often comes with a hefty price tag, SIM stands out as a beacon of accessibility and empowerment. For students and families seeking assurance that quality education is within reach, SIM offers not just hope but a clear, actionable path forward.

References:

Bursaries & Financial Aid (Enhanced) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/bursaries-and-financial-aids
Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/ressec
The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) Opens to Advance Singapore’s Social Sector – https://www.sim.edu.sg/news-events/the-dr-richard-k-m-eu-sim-social-entrepreneurship-centre-%28ressec%29-opens
SIM Scholarship – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships
SIM’s STARRR Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-starrr-award-for-new-undergraduate-students
SIM Award and Sports & Artistic Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-scholarship
SIM Global Education Diploma Scholarships – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-diploma-scholarships
Chairman’s Award for Resilience – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/chairman-s-award-for-resilience

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

Beyond Academic Excellence: SIM Scholarships Champion Leadership, Resilience, and Talent

Published

1 day ago

07/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) is proud to reaffirm its commitment to developing future-ready graduates through a comprehensive scholarship framework that goes beyond academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to recognize and nurture qualities such as leadership, resilience, and talent. These attributes are essential for success in today’s dynamic global environment.

For decades, scholarships have been synonymous with academic excellence. SIM is redefining this narrative by adopting a holistic approach that values character, contribution, and courage alongside academic performance. This initiative reflects SIM’s mission to prepare graduates who are adaptable, innovative, and socially responsible.

Scholarships That Go Beyond Academics

SIM’s scholarship ecosystem reflects its belief that success is multidimensional. Rather than focusing solely on grades, these awards celebrate qualities such as resilience, leadership, and talent. The SIM STARRR Award, for instance, supports freshmen who embody Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Responsibility, offering up to S$36,000 in tuition fees, along with living and exchange allowances, without any bond requirement.

For students who shine in sports or the arts, the SIM Award & Sports/Artistic Talent Award provides S$15,000, disbursed in two tranches, to help them balance academic and extracurricular excellence.

International students pursuing diploma programmes can benefit from the Diploma Scholarships, which cover up to 100% of course fees for academic excellence or 50% for merit-based achievements.

For working adults who have overcome significant challenges, the SIM Chairman’s Award for Resilience offers S$3,000, recognizing perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Stories That Inspire

SIM’s scholarships are more than financial aid. They are catalysts for transformation, opening doors for students to turn challenges into triumphs. Take Ernita Tanudjaja, an international student who refused to let pandemic disruptions derail her ambitions. Instead, she leveraged technology to livestream events and boost engagement, showcasing resilience and resourcefulness.

Similarly, Chow Kah Ying, an ICU nurse, managed the intense demands of frontline healthcare during COVID-19 while completing her degree, showcasing perseverance and purpose. Likewise, Michelle Seah transformed O-level failure into triumph, excelling in javelin and academics to earn the SIM Sports & Artistic Talent Award, proof that determination and discipline can rewrite any story.

These journeys reflect SIM’s unwavering belief that leadership and resilience matter as much as grades, and that true achievement lies in character and contribution as much as in academic performance.

The Broader Vision

SIM’s scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They serve as a strategic platform for transformation and growth. Recipients benefit from networking opportunities that connect them with alumni and industry leaders, fostering mentorship and career development. Many scholarships also provide international exposure through exchange programmes that broaden perspectives and enhance global competencies.

In addition to academic achievement, students cultivate essential life skills such as leadership, resilience and adaptability through experiential learning and community engagement. These qualities equip graduates to excel in uncertain environments and contribute meaningfully to society.

This commitment reflects SIM’s core belief that education is not limited to examinations. It is about shaping leaders who create impact and drive positive change in a rapidly evolving world.

References: