Media OutReach
NIA Highlights Key Innovation Trends for 2026, Spotlighting Innovation Policies Driving Thailand’s Economy and Society
Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of NIA, said that rapid advances in artificial intelligence, escalating geopolitical tensions across multiple regions, trade decoupling and reciprocal tariff measures that create uncertainty in the global economy and value chains, as well as environmental issues and natural disasters, were major forces shaping change in 2025. ‘Innovation’ remains a critical tool for coping with these disruptions and uncertainties.
Looking ahead to 2026, Thai entrepreneurs will need to continue closely monitoring and adapting to change. Key innovation trends present both opportunities and challenges, starting with technology trends that help reduce costs and build long-term competitiveness. Notable technologies include Agentic AI, which can autonomously perform tasks such as customer chat responses, sales closure, order management, queue booking, price comparison, and automated purchasing; Hyper-Automation, which integrates bots and systems to reduce repetitive tasks, improve efficiency and accuracy, and enable real-time data-driven decision-making; and Carbon Accounting, which is becoming essential for SMEs involved in exports or global supply chains. Businesses are increasingly required to measure carbon footprints across energy use, production, logistics, and waste, in response to stricter global regulations such as the EU’s CBAM and Thailand’s forthcoming Climate Change Act.
Business trends highlight growth opportunities across several sectors. These include Health and Wellness, covering not only treatment but also prevention and therapy, particularly for working-age populations facing stress, office syndrome, and sleep disorders. Opportunities span physical therapy clinics, aromatherapy and sleep-aid products, herbal supplements, wellness tourism, yoga, and meditation. Another fast-growing area is the Pet Economy, as the Thai pet market continues to expand despite economic headwinds. This sector now includes holistic and organic pet food, fresh pet meals, fashion apparel, multifunctional pet furniture, and premium services such as pet spas, hotels, and condominiums. Additionally, Green and Circular Businesses are gaining traction, with upcycling and recycling ventures transforming waste and local materials into higher-value products. Although costs may be higher, sustainability-driven products can command premium prices, creating opportunities for community-based SMEs through innovative design aligned with environmental and fashion trends.
Consumer trends reveal a shift toward value-for-money and self-care. Hyper-Personalization is increasingly important, as consumers seek products tailored to individual needs, supported by advanced data analytics—such as supplements based on blood test results or skincare customized to personal skin conditions. Silver Solutions address the needs of Thailand’s aging society, with services focused on convenience, safety, and quality of life, including home modifications, slow-life travel programs, and assisted healthcare services. Meanwhile, Muketing or the Magic Economy reflects the enduring role of belief, spirituality, and cultural traditions in Thai society, creating economic value through religious tourism, spiritually inspired products, and design-driven items that blend art with faith.
Dr. Krithpaka added that NIA’s long-term mission is to transform Thailand into an innovation-driven economy, with startups and innovation-based entrepreneurs at its core. This requires the creation of new industries to drive growth and position Thailand as an “Innovation Nation” through three key objectives: developing innovations based on advanced and deep technologies that are difficult to replicate; creating high-value products and services rooted in creativity and cultural capital; and preparing a highly skilled workforce capable of keeping pace with rapid technological change and evolving demographic and labor market structures. NIA works closely with domestic and international partners in its role as a Focal Conductor of Innovation, supporting innovative businesses through the 4G framework: Groom (incubation and capability building), Grant (funding support), Growth (market expansion and access to capital), and Global (international market entry). In 2026, NIA will drive Thailand’s economy and society through four key innovation policy pillars.
The first focuses on promoting investment in innovative businesses, offering a range of financial mechanisms including grants for early-stage ventures and co-investment schemes for growth-stage firms, such as corporate co-funding, public venture mechanisms (NIA Venture), global investment link programs, and capital gains tax exemptions to support startup fundraising. The second pillar emphasizes innovation linkages, strengthening collaboration between academia and industry to translate research into real-world applications through acceleration programs, innovation hubs, ecosystem platforms, tax incentives, and future mechanisms such as intellectual property financing. The third pillar supports regional innovation development, enhancing local economies and quality of life through Social Innovation Driving units (SID), Open Innovation programs, City and Community Challenge, Social Innovation Villages, and Ninmungkornth The Reality, which inspires new or small entrepreneurs to become local economic champions. The final pillar aims to enhance national innovation competencies, cultivating innovation mindsets, technological and business skills, entrepreneurial thinking, and global readiness across youth, startups, SMEs, and organizations. Key initiatives include STEAM4INNOVATOR, Startup Thailand League, NIA Academy training programs, and productivity-focused projects such as INNOProductivity for SMEs, aligned with international innovation management standards like ISO 56001.
Through these integrated efforts, NIA seeks to strengthen Thailand’s innovation ecosystem and ensure that innovative businesses can grow resiliently and compete on the global stage.
Hashtag: #NIA #NationalInnovationAgency
https://www.nia.or.th/The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
From Mexico to Hong Kong, Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez is Building Bridges Through Media at CUHK
Hong Kong: A Strategic Hub for Global Media
Currently enrolled in CUHK’s Global Communication programme, Jose is part of a growing wave of international students choosing Hong Kong for its strategic role as a cultural and commercial gateway between East and West. Long fascinated by Asian culture and influenced by family ties to the city, he was drawn to its unique position as a bridge between cultures. “I wanted to become a local with time and create bridges between Mexico and Hong Kong,” he said.
A school adviser first introduced him to CUHK as a strong option, and while he also considered universities in Canada and the United Kingdom, Hong Kong remained his first choice. Receiving the CUHK University Admission Scholarship confirmed his decision.
Academic Excellence and Creative Exploration
Jose’s experience in the Global Communication programme has met his expectations and more. What stands out most to him are the creative courses, which give students hands-on access to professional media equipment and the freedom to experiment. “Being encouraged to explore creativity by some professors has led me to discover new sides of myself,” he noted.
Outside the classroom, Jose has embraced life in Hong Kong with enthusiasm. From cultural events and student society gatherings to exploring local food streets, he has found the city lively and inspiring. The campus MTR station also makes it easy to travel to Shatin, Hong Kong Island, and even the Shenzhen border, adding to the convenience of student life.
A Creative Career Taking Shape in Hong Kong
Looking ahead, Jose hopes to take part in a semester exchange and a media production internship to further strengthen his practical skills. His post-graduation plans remain open, with possibilities in both Mexico’s rapidly growing entertainment industry and Hong Kong’s dynamic market.
For international students considering their options, Jose’s message is clear: CUHK offers academic quality, financial support, and a valuable foothold in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
CUHK’s Global Communication Programme
CUHK’s Global Communication programme prepares students for an evolving media landscape by combining communication studies with a guaranteed overseas exchange and a curriculum built around real-world experience.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Access to a 4K-UHD Virtual Set Studio, Digital Radio Studio, and VR Lab.
- Guaranteed Global Exchange: One semester at a partner university in Asia, Europe, or North America.
- Hands-On Learning: Real-world experience through journalism projects and overseas study tours.
- International Classroom: A 1:1 ratio of international to local students with all courses taught in English.
For more information about CUHK’s Global Communication programme, visit https://admission.cuhk.edu.hk/programme/gcomn/
Hashtag: #CUHK
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
Singapore’s Largest Pet Event Returns Bigger Than Ever with Singapore Pet Festival 2026
Featuring Cesar Millan’s Singapore Debut, Over 300 Exhibitors, 800+ Brands, International Competitions, and Four Halls of Pet Experiences
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Pet lovers can look forward to the return of SG Pet Festival 2026, Singapore’s largest pet exhibition, happening from 31 July to 2 August 2026 at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre, Halls A, B, C & D.
Spanning across four exhibition halls, this year’s festival promises its biggest edition yet, bringing together over 300 exhibitors representing more than 800 local and international brands. Visitors can expect an exciting three-day celebration filled with shopping, education, competitions, interactive experiences, exclusive launches, and entertainment for pets and their families.
“Singapore Pet Festival has always been about bringing the pet community together while creating opportunities for brands, businesses, and pet lovers to connect. As the festival continues to grow, we are committed to raising industry standards, supporting education, and introducing new experiences that benefit both consumers and businesses. This year’s festival is our biggest and most exciting edition yet, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Marina Bay Sands,” said Angie Lim, Managing Director of Citrus Media.
Event Highlights
Shop, Save & Win
Visitors can enjoy:
- $30,000 worth of Cash Rebates & Lucky Draw Prizes
- Exclusive event-only product launches, promotions, and deals
- Official TikTok LIVE shopping sessions featuring exclusive festival promotions and participating exhibitors
- Complimentary Limited Edition Singapore Pet Festival Tote Bag (while stocks last)
- Complimentary themed photobooth print-outs for qualifying spenders
- Exclusive giveaways and brand activations throughout the festival
Singapore’s Largest Pet Marketplace
With over 300 exhibitors showcasing 800+ brands, visitors can explore the latest products and services for dogs, cats, birds, small animals, aquatics, and more.
A specially curated Food Street featuring 18 food booths will also offer a delicious selection of food, refreshing beverages, and indulgent desserts, giving visitors plenty of dining options throughout the festival.
International & Industry Highlights
Singapore Pet Festival continues to strengthen its position as a leading regional pet event by welcoming exhibitors and industry professionals from across Asia.
Highlights include:
- International exhibitors from across Asia, including the Japan Pavilion and Korea Pavilion
- Singapore’s first International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC) Grooming Certification & Competition
- The 8th TICA Cat Show, featuring pedigreed cats and renowned breeders
- National Dog Obedience Competition, featuring Singapore’s top obedience teams in a live showcase of skill and teamwork supported by Pets Enterprises & Traders Association Singapore (PETAS)
- International judging panels and industry experts
Dedicated Experiences for Every Pet Lover
Visitors can enjoy:
- A dedicated Hall D for Cats & Small Animals, showcasing curated brands, activities, and live animal displays, including birds, guinea pigs and chinchillas
- Interactive pet-friendly activities and experiences
- Exclusive themed pet photo shoot experiences
Education & Community
Beyond shopping, Singapore Pet Festival aims to educate and connect the pet community through:
- Educational talks, workshops, and live demonstrations
- Meet-and-greet opportunities with veterinarians, trainers, groomers, and industry professionals
- Animal welfare groups hosting on-site adoption drives, giving rescued animals the opportunity to find loving forever homes while promoting responsible pet adoption
- A platform connecting pet owners, businesses, and animal lovers across the region
Exclusive Media Preview
Ahead of the public opening, invited media representatives, content creators, VIP guests and industry partners will enjoy exclusive early access to Singapore Pet Festival 2026 during the VIP Preview Session on Friday, 31 July, from 10:00 AM.
The preview offers creators a first-hand shopping experience, early access to new product launches and exclusive deals, opportunities to create content before the crowds arrive, and networking with brands and fellow creators.
Hashtag: #clubpets #sgpetfestival #petevents #petexpo #petfair
https://www.clubpets.com.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/CLUBPETS
https://www.instagram.com/clubpets.sg/
https://www.tiktok.com/@clubpets
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Singapore Pet Festival
Organised by Citrus Media, Singapore Pet Festival is Singapore’s largest pet exhibition, bringing together pet owners, businesses, brands, professionals, and animal lovers under one roof. Through education, innovation, community engagement, and meaningful collaborations, the festival continues to promote responsible pet ownership while supporting the growth of the regional pet industry.
About Citrus Media
Citrus Media Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based events and media company dedicated to connecting communities through innovative exhibitions, digital media, and lifestyle platforms. The company is the organiser of flagship events including Singapore Pet Festival (SGPF), Singapore Cat Carnival, Blissful One-Stop Wedding Show (BOWS), and operates the Clubpets ecosystem, comprising Clubpets Marketplace, VIPaws Membership Programme, and digital media channels. Citrus Media is committed to creating meaningful experiences that bring together consumers, brands, and industry partners.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwgVyMKMj2M
Spectacular Mountain Scenery, Nature‘s Air Conditioner
From the dazzling urban energy of Guiyang’s Qingyun Market to the starry nightscape of Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, and from the majestic Huangguestu Waterfall to the sky-high Huajiang Canyon Bridge—the “world’s highest bridge”—every corner of Guizhou is a masterpiece worth pausing for.
“Guizhou’s summer feels like natural air conditioning,” shared a young Vietnamese travel influencer. “The seamless blend of daytime nature and vibrant city life made our journey incredibly exciting and fulfilling”
Link: https://www.guizhoutravel.com/feature/list
Immersive Culture & Play your way Through Guizhou
During their trip, the influencers dressed in exquisite traditional Miao costumes for stunning social media photos against the backdrop of historic wooden stilt houses. They also explored urban landmarks like Qingyun Market and Colorful Guizhou Town, experiencing the fusion of local heritage and modern trends amidst neon lights and bustling night markets. Food-wise, local delicacies like sour fish soup, beef rice noodles, and Siwawa (veggie wraps) continuously delighted their palates, offering a perfect mix of cultural depth and trendy adventures.
Pack your bags and go: Effortless Travel to Your Next Getaway
With direct flights now operating from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Guiyang—taking just over three hours—traveling to Guizhou has never been easier. Supported by China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy and a safe, welcoming environment, Guizhou is becoming the ideal and ultimate “summer escape” destination for young Vietnamese travelers.
Guizhou is actively building a world-class tourism product system tailored for the international market, centering on the core themes of “Summer Escape + Eco-tourism + Cultural Experience.”
Pack your bags this summer and embark on your own adventure to mystical Guizhou!
Discover more of mystical Guizhou: www.guizhoutravel.com
Hashtag: #Guizhou #Vietnam #SummerEscape
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
