Media OutReach
Asia Pacific strengthens its position as a global trade anchor as Singapore ranks #1 worldwide – DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026
- Globalization holds firm at a record level while trade flows in Asia expand and diversify
- Despite geopolitical tensions and rising uncertainty, countries largely maintain trade and investment ties with their traditional partner countries
- Record-long trade distances, AI-driven commerce, and resilient cross‑border flows paint a surprisingly robust picture of globalization
- U.S.–China trade fell to 2.0% of global trade, down from 2.7% in 2024
SINGAPORE / HANOI, VIETNAM / NEW YORK, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 March 2026 – Globalization remains at a historically high level at 25% in 2025 – despite escalating geopolitical tensions, rising U.S. tariffs, and uncertainty about future trade policies. Equally, the Asia Pacific region features prominently in this year’s DHL Global Connectedness Report, with Singapore ranked #1 globally. A broad swath of regional economies in the Asia Pacific region has also strengthened its position on cross-border flows. The DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026 is produced with New York University’s Stern School of Business. It examines four ‘pillars’ measuring the depth and breadth of trade, capital, information, and people flows.
Asia Pacific remains a global anchor in cross-border trade
The Asia Pacific region is one of the world’s strongest pillars of global connectedness with several markets continuing to post strong breadth and depth of international ties. In fact, broad-based gains were observed across the Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, and Oceania regions. The report shows East Asia & Pacific’s share of world trade has climbed from 24% (2001) to 32% (2025), underscoring the region’s long-run momentum. Several other economies in Asia Pacific also advanced sharply in the global connectedness ranking: Malaysia (#16; +13 ranks), Thailand (#27; +7), Korea (#31; +6), Taiwan (#32; +4), and Vietnam (#36; +3).
Intra-Asia trade has also strengthened since 2023. The report’s country profiles show that Asia-Pacific economies are deeply networked within the region, with most major trade and investment flows anchored in Asian partner markets. At the same time, China’s redirected exports to ASEAN markets—up 13% (+USD 79 billion) in 2025 — further cement ASEAN’s position as a fast growing trade corridor.
Singapore leads the country ranking
Singapore has retained the top position among 180 economies – reflecting exceptional depth in trade and capital flows. The country is ranked first on the trade pillar (out of 180 countries) and second on the capital pillar (out of 158 countries). Particularly on trade flows, Singapore ranks first on ‘depth’ (up one place from 2019), with the largest international flows relative to its domestic economy. Additionally, the city-state stands out most for the breadth of its inward foreign domestic investment (FDI) stocks (ranked first worldwide).
“Asia Pacific continues to demonstrate extraordinary resilience and adaptability,” said Ken Lee, CEO of DHL Express Asia Pacific. “The DHL Global Connectedness Report shows that countries across our region – from Singapore to Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and beyond – are deepening their global ties and attracting new trade flows. Even as global patterns shift, Asia remains a central engine of global trade. This is why we continue to invest in and enhance our Asia Pacific network, particularly in the eight fast-growing markets that DHL Group has identified. Our priority is to support businesses to stay connected and diversify their markets.”
AI boom and race to beat tariff hikes fueled trade in 2025
Global trade grew faster in 2025 than in any year since 2017, excluding the volatile Covid-19 period. U.S. importers accelerated shipments early in the year ahead of tariff increases. U.S. imports dropped below prior-year levels, but rising Chinese exports to non-U.S. markets helped sustain global trade volumes.
Trade in AI-related goods surged as countries and companies raced to build AI infrastructure. AI-related products drove 42% of goods trade growth in the first three quarters of 2025, according to WTO figures. In fact, AI hardware and data infrastructure are amplifying Asia Pacific’s trade. Notably, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and Malaysia’s tech supply chains are benefitting from the surge in demand for AI chips, servers and data center buildouts. In answer, DHL Express has added significant payload capacity for flights out of Hanoi to support Vietnam’s rapidly expanding tech manufacturing sector.
Trade outlook: growth continues, even with higher tariffs
Looking ahead, recent U.S. tariff increases are expected to modestly slow trade growth in 2026 – but not stop it. Global goods trade is projected to expand by an average of 2.6% per year through 2029, in line with the past decade.
One reason trade can keep growing despite U.S. tariff hikes is that most trade does not involve the U.S. In 2025, 13% of imports went to the U.S., and 9% of exports came from the U.S. In addition, many countries are pursuing new trade agreements to secure access to alternative markets, such as the recently minted India-EU free trade agreement.
Information flows face barriers, people flows reach new highs
The report notes that people flows – travel, migration, and student mobility – have fully recovered and reached record highs. This trend is especially pronounced in Asia Pacific, where highly connected hubs such as Singapore and Hong Kong continue to attract substantial cross‑border movement.
Many of the region’s most connected markets, such as Hong Kong SAR, Japan, and Korea – remain deeply tied to global data and digital exchanges as these have risen in ranks in the information pillar since 2019. Capital flows remain resilient overall in the region, where there is no broad shift of investment from foreign to domestic markets.
U.S.–China tensions affect only small share of global flows
The report also finds that ties between the world’s two largest economies – the U.S. and China – continue to weaken. However, these ties are surprisingly small in a global perspective. For example, trade between the U.S. and China accounted for 3.6% of world trade at its peak in 2015, before falling to 2.7% in 2024 and to only 2.0% during the first three quarters of 2025. The U.S.–China share of international business investment is even smaller – less than 1% in 2025.
No global split into rival blocs
Even as the U.S. and China decouple, most countries – including those in Asia – continue to engage with their longstanding partners. Over the past decade, only 4–6% of global goods trade, greenfield FDI, and cross-border M&A have shifted away from geopolitical rivals. Of these flows, most have not moved to close allies but to countries with flexible geopolitical positions, such as India and Vietnam. Overall, the world economy remains far from a broad split into rival blocs.
“The politics and policy surrounding globalization are much more volatile than the actual flows between countries,” said Prof. Steven A. Altman, Director of the DHL Initiative on Globalization at NYU Stern’s Center for the Future of Management. “In Asia Pacific, as in the rest of the world, the data shows that cross‑border flows have remained remarkably resilient despite heightened geopolitical tensions. Sound decision‑making in this region requires a calibrated view of how much global business ties are really changing. The risks to globalization are real, but so is the resilience of global flows, and Asia Pacific continues to play a pivotal role in sustaining that connectivity.”
The DHL Global Connectedness Report
Published regularly since 2011, the DHL Global Connectedness Report provides reliable insights on globalization by analyzing 14 types of international trade, capital, information, and people flows. The 2026 edition is based on more than 9 million data points. It ranks the connectedness of 180 countries, accounting for 99.6 percent of global gross domestic product and 99.0 percent of the world’s population. A set of 180 one-page country profiles summarizes each country’s pattern of globalization.
The report was commissioned by DHL and authored by Steven A. Altman and Caroline R. Bastian of New York University Stern School of Business.
Note to editors:
- The report and further resources are available at dhl.com/gcr.
- DHL Group’s “GT20 Initiative” refers to 20 markets worldwide that the Group has identified to benefit strongest from Geographic Tailwind. Eight of them are in Asia Pacific including China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Hashtag: #DHL
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
DHL – The logistics company for the world
DHL Group is the world’s leading logistics company. The Group connects people and markets and is an enabler of global trade. It aspires to be the first choice for customers, employees, investors and green logistics worldwide. To this end, DHL Group is focusing on accelerating sustainable growth in its profitable core logistics businesses and Group growth initiatives. The Group contributes to the world through sustainable business practices, corporate citizenship, and environmental activities. By the year 2050, DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics.
DHL Group is home to two strong brands: DHL offers a comprehensive range of parcel, express, freight transport, and supply chain management services as well as e-commerce logistics solutions. Deutsche Post is the largest postal service provider in Europe and the market leader in the German mail market. DHL Group employs approximately 584,000 people in over 220 countries and territories worldwide. The Group generated revenues of approximately 82.9 billion Euros in 2025.
The logistics company for the world.
New York University Stern School of Business
New York University Stern School of Business, located in the heart of Greenwich Village and deeply connected to the City after which it is named, is one of the United States’ premier management education schools and research centers. NYU Stern offers a broad portfolio of transformational programs at graduate, undergraduate, and executive levels, all of them enriched by the dynamism and deep resources of one of the world’s business capitals. NYU Stern is a welcoming community that inspires its members to embrace and lead change in a rapidly transforming world. Visit www.stern.nyu.edu.
Media OutReach
CUKTECH 6 Ultra Charger Officially Launches in Indonesia, Delivering Smarter 100W Fast Charging
Compact Design with Powerful Multi-Device Charging
As smartphones, tablets, laptops, and portable gaming devices become everyday essentials, users increasingly seek a single charger capable of powering them all. The CUKTECH 6 Ultra Charger delivers up to 100W MAX fast charging, making it ideal for smartphones, tablets, lightweight laptops, and Nintendo Switch.
Featuring two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, the charger supports simultaneous charging for multiple devices. Its compact form factor is significantly smaller than a traditional 67W charger, while the included 1-meter 6A 240W braided cable offers added convenience and durability.
Equipped with Dynamic Power Distribution and ADC 2.0 fast-charging technology, the charger provides seamless compatibility across both Android and Apple ecosystems
It can charge a Xiaomi 17 Pro to approximately 71% in 30 minutes (100W Max), a Samsung S26 Ultra to around 78% (60W Max), and a MacBook Air (M3) to approximately 53% in 30 minutes (65W Max).
Smart Desk Companion with an Interactive AI Display
The CUKTECH 6 Ultra Charger features a unique 0.96-inch HD smart display with built-in interactive emoji animations. The display changes expressions based on charging status—from standby to charging and nearly full—bringing a fun and engaging element to everyday charging. It also supports 180° screen rotation and provides real-time information, including power, voltage, and current.
Advanced Protection with OPC 2.0
Designed for demanding environments, the charger incorporates CUKTECH’s proprietary OPC 2.0 charging optimization technology, which intelligently recognizes connected devices and adjusts charging current to help extend battery lifespan. Combined with an advanced GaN architecture and 24-hour intelligent temperature control, it delivers stable, efficient performance even under heavy workloads.
As one of CUKTECH’s latest global products, the CUKTECH 6 Ultra Charger combines high-performance charging, portability, and intelligent features to provide Indonesian consumers with a more efficient digital lifestyle.
*All data from CUKTECH internal lab tests. Actual results may vary with device software or ambient temperature.
Hashtag: #CUKTECH
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
VinFast Opens 21 Electric Motorcycle Showrooms in the Philippines, Deepening Its Green Mobility Presence in Southeast Asia
The 21 pioneer dealerships will begin operations in major cities nationwide, expanding consumer access to VinFast products and authorized services. The network is expected to grow further in the coming period, progressively expanding VinFast’s presence across the Philippines.
The simultaneous opening of 21 showrooms comes just over a month after the success of VinFast’s early booking program, which attracted thousands of customers nationwide. The strong market response to VinFast’s battery-swapping electric motorcycles not only demonstrates the products’ appeal but also underscores the company’s investment commitment and rapid expansion in the Philippines.
VinFast aims to develop its dealerships as all-in-one destinations, bringing product displays, energy solutions, and technical services together under one roof. Customers can receive personalized consultations, take test rides, experience a one-minute battery swap, explore home-charging solutions, and choose an ownership option that best suits their needs, with professional support throughout the entire journey, from initial product discovery to after-sales service.
In addition to the official showcase of the brand’s first product lineup and its full range of available colors, the launch featured test rides and one-minute battery-swapping demonstrations. The brand also shared its official local pricing, battery solutions, and supporting ecosystem, including plans to deploy 30,000 battery-swapping cabinets nationwide in partnership with infrastructure providers.
Following the launch event, a series of public experience activities will take place at the new dealerships throughout August 2026. Customers will be able to see and test ride the three models, learn about battery technology and sales policies, and explore flexible ownership options. Details of the test ride program and applicable terms are available on VinFast’s official website: vinfastauto.ph/en.
To celebrate the occasion, participating dealerships will introduce a variety of exclusive offers and promotional programs, providing additional benefits and value for early adopters.
Ms. Vo Thi Cam Tu, CEO of VinFast E-Scooters & E-Bikes, International Markets, said: “Opening 21 VinFast showrooms alongside the launch of our three electric motorcycle models reflects VinFast’s long-term investment commitment to the Philippines. Beyond offering products that meet diverse mobility needs, we are building a comprehensive ecosystem that makes it easier for customers to access our vehicles, energy solutions, and support services throughout their ownership journey. As our electric mobility ecosystem continues to expand, we believe electric motorcycles can become an increasingly practical and convenient choice in the everyday lives of Filipinos.”
Evo, Feliz II, and Viper each offer distinct characteristics designed to meet a wide range of mobility needs and riding styles. Evo combines elegant styling with everyday agility, offering a top speed of 80 km/h and a range of up to 150 km with two fully charged batteries. Feliz II emphasizes practicality and versatile performance, with a top speed of 90 km/h. Rounding out the lineup is Viper, featuring a sporty design, maximum power output of 5,200W, and a top speed of 90 km/h, aimed at younger riders who value technology and engaging riding experience.
All three models feature two under-seat battery compartments and are compatible with VinFast’s battery-swapping solution, giving riders greater flexibility and convenience in everyday use. Customers can also choose between purchasing their motorcycle with batteries included or subscribing to a battery subscription plan, depending on their needs and usage patterns.
Notably, VinFast electric motorcycle owners will receive free battery swaps at public swapping stations operated by strategic partner V-Green for one year, with up to 20 swaps per month per vehicle. The models are also covered by a 4+2-year or 60,000+12,000-km warranty, whichever comes first, providing customers with greater benefits, lower operating costs, and long-term peace of mind.
VinFast’s entry into the Philippine electric motorcycle market builds on its expansion across key Southeast Asian markets, following the opening of 20 electric motorcycle dealerships in Indonesia in July 2026. By steadily expanding its presence, VinFast is building out a comprehensive green mobility ecosystem across the region, making it easier for consumers to transition to smarter, more modern, and environmentally-friendly transportation solutions.
Hashtag: #VinFast
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
From Formula 4 simulation racing excitement to exclusive shopping rewards, at the award-winning luxury resort – Where Summer Comes to Play – exhilarating new attractions extend the seasonal fun well beyond summer
MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2026 – Extending the energy of summer, Galaxy Macau turns up the excitement and dials up the heat with a new collection of immersive experiences and exclusive rewards as part of its “Where Summer Comes to Play” campaign. Whether racing on a cutting-edge Formula 4 competition simulator or indulging in rewarding shopping experiences at Galaxy Promenade, guests can create unforgettable summer memories while enjoying thrilling privileges available exclusively at Galaxy Macau.
Be a Racing Legend｜Test Your Skills at the Formula4 Simulators
This summer, Galaxy Macau invites guests to take the driver’s seat and experience the thrill of competitive motorsport with “Racing Legend: F4 Simulators”, an immersive racing experience that brings the excitement of Formula 4 competition to life. Inspired by Macau’s world-renowned Guia Circuit, one of the sport’s most iconic destinations, this high-energy attraction combines cutting-edge simulation technology, realistic vehicle dynamics and action-packed gameplay, placing guests at the centre of a pulse-raising challenge where precision, skill and split-second decisions determine the outcome.
Designed to capture the intensity and exhilaration of professional racing, the state-of-the-art simulators challenge players to navigate sweeping bends, master high-speed straights and push their limits in pursuit of the fastest lap. With capacity for up to eight racers to compete simultaneously, the experience delivers an engaging head-to-head contest for friends, families, racing enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Whether striving for pole position, setting a personal best or simply embracing the excitement of the track, guests can look forward to an adrenaline-charged experience filled with speed, competition and unforgettable moments.
“Racing Legend: F4 Simulators” will be open daily from 12:00pm to 10:00pm, from July 31 until August 31. Guests who spend MOP500 or above in a single transaction at participating outlets across the resort may enjoy this exclusive summer experience.
Shop, Play and Be Rewarded at Galaxy Promenade
To further enrich the summer experiences, Galaxy Promenade is delighted to unveil an exclusive shopping rewards initiative, inviting guests to Macau’s leading luxury shopping destination to indulge in a one-stop retail journey complemented by exceptional privileges and bespoke rewards.
From now until August 16, guests can enjoy up to 7% shopping rebate at Galaxy Promenade, including shopping vouchers worth up to MOP60,000 with no minimum spending requirement. VIP members can enjoy an additional 2% rebate. Purchases made with designated UnionPay or HSBC credit cards are eligible for extra vouchers. From now until August 31, guests who meet designated spending amounts will be rewarded with a whimsical plush floral bouquet, a complimentary limited-edition floral-inspired coffee, as well as taking part in the interactive “Glitz & Glam Dynamic Video” experience, capturing vibrant and memorable moments through an immersive motion-camera activation.
Elevated Shopping | New and Upgraded Boutiques
The temperature escalates with new shops at Galaxy Promenade, further elevating the shopping fun. Louis Vuitton celebrates the opening of its newly renovated store at Galaxy Macau with an exclusive preview until August 5, highlighting the Fall-Winter 2026 Men’s Collection by the line’s Creative Director Pharrell Williams. Showcasing the Maison’s signature blend of innovation and craftsmanship, the collection reinterprets classic menswear through adaptive fabrics, refined tailoring and exceptional artisanal techniques. Designed to meet the demands of modern living, the collection balances functionality with sophistication.
Simultaneously, Galaxy Promenade welcomes the arrival of Coach, where the brand’s iconic New York spirit meets contemporary design. Featuring warm natural wood elements, refined metallic accents and an open-concept layout, the new store presents a comprehensive selection of products, including the Tabby collection, New York family, and leather accessories. Guests can also discover August highlights, featuring the vibrant new Poppy Colorway handbag collections, a classic line of the brand. To celebrate the opening, guests who purchase any handbag can enjoy a complimentary personalised leather hangtag with monograming service. With any purchase, guests will also receive a complimentary leather bookmark with monograming service.
Beauty enthusiasts can embark on an unparalleled luxury beauty journey at DFS Macau, Galaxy Macau (Beauty), home to an exceptional selection of the world’s leading beauty brands. Throughout August, guests can enjoy “First Class Beauty”, an annual series of exclusive experiences and special rewards, including beauty consultations, hand and hair treatments, makeup masterclasses, as well as immersive brand-led workshops and bespoke beauty services. Guests who meet designated spending thresholds will also enjoy $1,000 shopping vouchers and participate in exclusive interactive games for a chance to win exciting prizes, including a complimentary stay at Andaz Macau.
Adding to the excitement, an exclusive “Beauty Night Out” preview event on August 1, officially kicking off the beauty campaign. Themed “Run the Show, Define Your Glow”, the event will feature celebrity appearances, interactive experiences from luxury beauty brands, creating an unforgettable and immersive celebration of beauty.
Even More Summer Experiences Await
These latest additions further enrich an already exceptional line-up of experiences, exclusive privileges and world-class entertainment taking place across Galaxy Macau this summer.
At the iconic Grand Resort Deck, guests can enjoy spectacular Motorsurf performances by elite international athletes at 4:00pm and 5:30pm every weekend through August 30, set against the backdrop of the world’s largest Skytop Wave Pool, a pristine white-sand beach and an array of exhilarating aquatic attractions. Families can continue to create unforgettable summer memories at Aquatainment Island, while the vibrant seasonal plush floral installations throughout Galaxy Promenade transform the resort into a magical garden oasis, offering immersive encounters, captivating displays and picture-perfect moments tapping the latest robotic-arm technology for maximum fun.
Pop sensation Show Lo will take over the Grand Resort Deck at the Summer Splash Show on August 22 to deliver a captivating performance like no other – get ready to dive into the ultimate bash with the charismatic star!
For those seeking indulgence through Galaxy Macau’s award-winning gastronomic collection of restaurants, cafes and lounges, guests are invited on a remarkable culinary journey, where acclaimed chefs present refreshing seasonal creations crafted with the finest ingredients from around the world.
Whether pursuing adrenaline-fuelled thrills, embracing the excitement of water adventures, discovering luxury shopping experiences or spending quality time with family and friends, guests can find endless ways to celebrate their shining moments at Galaxy Macau. With a host of exciting new attractions, exclusive rewards to unlock more of Galaxy, as well as world-class signature entertainment continuing throughout August, there has never been a better time to experience why Galaxy Macau is the destination Where Summer Comes to Play.
For more information, please visit www.galaxymacau.com
Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort
Galaxy Macau, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Nine award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott at Galaxy Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau, and Capella at Galaxy Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.
As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies.
Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.
Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events.
Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.
For more details, please visit 
www.galaxymacau.com, www.broadwaymacau.com.mo and www.galaxyicc.com.
