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.
Three new Laguna Phuket developments – spanning lakeside living, golf-front design and Angsana-branded luxury – to be showcased at Park Lane Hong Kong on 16–17 MayCaption
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 May 2026 – Banyan Group Residences is bringing three of its most anticipated new residential launches to Hong Kong this month, with a two-day sales exhibition taking place at Park Lane Hong Kong (Canvas, 26F) on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The event offers Hong Kong buyers a rare opportunity to explore and invest in some of Phuket’s most compelling new addresses, with dedicated sales teams on hand for private consultations.
The exhibitions follow a year of record residential sales for Banyan Group Residences, as growing numbers of global investors look to Phuket as a safe haven for capital – drawn by the island’s political stability, strong rental yields, year-round lifestyle appeal, and the relative value it continues to offer against comparable markets. Demand has been particularly robust from buyers across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with Hong Kong remaining one of the Group’s most consistent source markets.
The three projects on show represent some of the most exciting new additions to Laguna Phuket – Asia’s premier integrated resort destination – and span a range of living concepts, price points, and design inspirations, united by the hallmark quality and hospitality expertise of Banyan Group Residences, Asia’s leading branded residential developer by volume.
“Hong Kong has consistently been one of our strongest buyer markets, and we look forward to welcoming buyers in person to discover what we believe is an exceptional line-up of new homes,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. “Whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, a permanent base in a world-class resort community, or a smart long-term investment, this exhibition offers something genuinely compelling. High-quality property in a prime location at Laguna Phuket still represents outstanding value compared to equivalent homes in Hong Kong or other major cities.”
Bellaguna Lake Residences
Brand new blocks of Bellaguna Lake Residences will be revealed for the first time at the exhibition. Set beside a shimmering lake within Laguna Phuket – steps from Bang Tao Beach – the development takes its design cues from the sleek lines of a contemporary luxury yacht. Five elegantly elongated buildings feature dark wave-like façades and warm, light-filled interiors, with generous private terraces overlooking the lagoon. Residences include one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools, as well as a brand new category of two-bedroom residences with private pool.
Bellaguna is Banyan Group Residences’ newest residential brand, conceived specifically for premium year-round living outside of hotel inventory – yet fully supported by the Group’s renowned hospitality management standards.
Bellaguna Golf Residences
Set on land that once formed part of Phuket’s historic tin-mining landscape, Bellaguna Golf Residences draws its design identity from that heritage – soft horizontal lines and sculpted contours reinterpreted through a contemporary tropical lens. Low-rise buildings unfold amid lush gardens and a signature free-form pool, overlooking the fairways of the championship Laguna Golf Phuket course. A brand new block has also just been released for this project, which features a compact one-bedroom configuration, alongside one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private pools and sunset golf views.
Angsana Golf Residences Topaz
Inspired by the clarity and elegance of the topaz gemstone, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz comprises three gracefully curved low-rise buildings set within Laguna Phuket, with Sino-Portuguese design accents that subtly reference Phuket’s cultural heritage. The development offers two- and three-bedroom residences and exclusive penthouses with private rooftop pools, all enjoying panoramic views of the golf course, mountains, and the Andaman Sea. A signature rooftop ring-shaped pool completes the picture.
All three projects now have show units available to view at Laguna Property Sales Gallery
Banyan Living
Banyan Group has recently launched Banyan Living, a residential rental and marketing platform created to support owners of branded residences across the Group’s portfolio, while offering guests a professionally managed alternative to traditional home‑sharing platforms.
Developed as a structured, hospitality-led rental ecosystem, Banyan Living enables private owners to generate income from their residences, while providing guests who rent the properties assurance of the design integrity and professional service standards associated with Banyan Group.
Why Phuket, Why Now
Phuket continues to attract growing international interest as both a lifestyle destination and an investment market. Within Laguna Phuket, nationals of some 70 countries have chosen to make the resort community their home, drawn by year-round tropical living, world-class amenities, international schools, medical facilities, and a level of quality and security that is difficult to match elsewhere in the region.
Banyan Group Residences anticipates launching up to USD 1 billion in new luxury residential projects in Phuket over the next two to three years, reflecting the Group’s confidence in the market and the enduring strength of demand from international buyers.
Prospective buyers are welcome to visit the exhibition at Park Lane Hong Kong, Canvas (26F), on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Private appointments can be arranged in advance by contacting the team directly.
Hashtag: #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket #PhuketProperty
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Banyan Group
Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans more than 100 properties, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20-plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.
About Laguna Phuket
Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences. Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities.
About Banyan Group Residences
Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer Banyan Group, listed on the stock exchange of Singapore. With over 35 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand’s leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The Group’s main residential brands include the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences, Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark, Laguna Lakelands, and Bellaguna.
The event marked the first international debut of two insurance companies within Techcombank’s ecosystem — Techcom Life (life insurance) and Techcom Insurance (non-life insurance). Both entities are positioned to build a new generation of insurance, anchored in data, technology, and customer-centricity.
The roadshow featured senior leadership from across the ecosystem, including Mr. Pranav Seth, Chairman of Techcom Insurance; Mr. Mukesh Pilania, Chief Executive Officer of Techcom Life; and Ms. Veo Nguyen, Chief People Officer of Techcombank, alongside other executives leading key functions in technology, distribution, and product development.
Discussions at the event focused on Vietnam’s economic outlook and the evolving role of insurance in its next phase of development. Speakers highlighted the industry’s transition from traditional, product-led models toward data-driven, technology-enabled, and personalized approaches, with increasing emphasis on customer experience and long-term engagement.
Participants engaged in in-depth exchanges with the leadership team, gaining insights into Vietnam’s insurance landscape as well as a clearer understanding of the vision and long-term aspirations behind Techcombank’s newly established insurance businesses. The sessions reflected growing international interest in Vietnam as a high-potential market undergoing structural transformation.
Techcom Life, the group’s life insurance arm, has demonstrated strong early momentum, achieving a trajectory within six months and ranking No.1 in the bancassurance market in Q1 2026. Meanwhile, Techcom Insurance served over 650,000 customers in 2025 through a nationwide network of 280 branches and more than 3,500 sales professionals, reflecting its growing scale in the non-life insurance segment.
Hong Kong, one of Asia’s leading insurance hubs, is part of Techcombank’s broader international roadmap, following previous engagements in Singapore, the United States, Europe, and Australia.
Techcombank plans to continue the Overseas Insurance Talent Roadshow across additional global markets in 2026, as part of its strategy to attract international talent and support the development of a next-generation insurance ecosystem in Vietnam.
Hashtag: #Techcombank
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
Apple Storage Unveils Hong Kong’s First 17,000 sq. ft. IP-Themed Flagship Concept Store in Tsuen Wan, Featuring Exclusive VIP Lounge
In addition to specialized storage solutions—including dedicated units for clothing, collectibles, books, and bicycle parking—the facility features a groundbreaking VIP Lounge. Customers can enjoy complimentary access to massage chairs and co-working spaces, extending the storage experience into a lifestyle enjoyment. Apple Storage is committed to transforming storage from a utility into an exclusive clubhouse, allowing customers to free up home space while fully immersing themselves in hobbies such as outdoor activities or art collection.
Business-Grade Work Facilities
The branch features a dedicated co-working space equipped with computers, printing facilities, workstations, and charging points. Customers can conveniently handle business or personal administrative tasks, such as printing documents or conducting online research, directly on-site.
Party Room-Style Entertainment
To make the storage process relaxing and enjoyable, Apple Storage has equipped the VIP Lounge with professional massage chairs for immediate post-task stress relief. The Group has upgraded the facilities to rival a “Party Room” environment, featuring billiards, television, and Nintendo Switch consoles. This allows family members to stay entertained while customers manage their storage units at their own pace.
The lounge also includes a spacious communal table, perfect for assembling intricate models or playing board games. Guests can enjoy complimentary coffee and various beverages from the self-service refreshment counter, turning a cold warehouse into a private sanctuary for family time.
Comprehensive Storage Amenities
The facility is equipped with 24-hour support, climate and humidity control, CCTV, smart access control, and regular staff patrols to ensure maximum safety and comfort. Additional amenities such as packing zones, trolleys, and bicycle repair tools are provided for customer convenience. Customers can retreat to the leisure area or VIP lounge whenever they need a break.
Over 120 Branches: Hong Kong’s Leader in Regulatory Compliance
With deep roots in Hong Kong since 2005, Apple Storage has expanded to over 120 branches, serving more than 100,000 customers. Recognizing that safety is always the clients’ top priority, Apple Storage adheres to the highest standards of compliant operations. As an industry leader, Apple Storage maintains close communication with the Buildings Department and the Fire Services Department. Apple Storage takes pride in having the largest network of branches in Hong Kong that have successfully passed inspections by both departments. The Group pledges to continue upgrading fire safety facilities in line with government guidelines to ensure total peace of mind for every customer.
A New Era of Smart Storage: Integrating AI Technology
Apple Storage Group continues to invest heavily in integrating smart technology into its services. Hardware upgrades, including facial recognition systems and smart sensor lighting, have been rolled out across all branches to enhance security and energy efficiency.
On the innovation front, Apple Storage has developed a proprietary Customer Matching System. Utilizing AI data analysis, the system creates tailor-made storage solutions for clients, driving the business toward full digitalization. Currently, the Group is developing an “AI Smart Warehouse” project, which will apply cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence to unit management and customer interaction, signaling a new future for the industry.
Professional & Transparent: One-Stop Moving Team
Apple Storage offers a comprehensive “one-stop” moving and storage service, managed by the Group’s professional brand, APPLE MOVING. The team handles everything from general moving to third-party delivery and pickup. To ensure maximum protection, the team provides packing materials—such as boxes and bubble wrap—in advance of the moving date.
Unlike many local independent movers, Apple Moving operates under a transparent corporate management model. With strict service guidelines and a standardized quoting system, the Group guarantees transparent pricing and strictly prohibits “on-site price hikes” or the solicitation of tips, providing customers with a reliable brand guarantee.
Two Decades of Excellence: Recipient of the “10th Year Award for Hong Kong Service Brand”
Since opening its first branch in 2005, Apple Storage has accompanied Hong Kong families and businesses for over 20 years. Today, with branches in every corner of the city, Apple Storage’s commitment to a “premium environment” and “reliable service” remains unchanged.
The company’s professionalism has earned widespread market recognition, including five consecutive years of Quality Service Certification from the Hong Kong Retail Management Association (HKRMA). In 2026, the Group was honored with the “10th Year Award for Hong Kong Service Brand” by the Hong Kong Brand Development Council. These accolades reflect the trust of over 100,000 customers.
Multi-Brand Synergy: A Comprehensive Storage Ecosystem
The Group’s portfolio includes Apple Storage Premium, U SPACE, Apple Moving, and Apple Wine Cellar, providing a diverse range of integrated storage solutions. From flexible self-storage and professionally managed central storage to door-to-door storage and point-to-point logistics, current services cover every user need.
Apple Storage offers various sizes and specialized units, such as climate-controlled storage for clothing and sneakers, display units for toys, specialized bicycle racks, and flexible shelving units, creating bespoke space solutions for every client.
Driving ESG Strategy for a Green Future
Apple Storage Group has actively implemented ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategies in recent years. Regarding Environmental Protection, Apple Storage is transitioning to sensor-based energy-saving systems and prioritizing appliances with “Grade 1 Energy Labels.” Apple Storage’s own headquarters has also gone paperless through comprehensive digitalization.
In terms of Social Responsibility, the “Apple Volunteer Team” has collaborated with charities for years to support the underprivileged. Looking ahead, Apple Storage has set clear sustainability goals: a commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 10% within three years and increased investment in philanthropy, including pro-bono moving services and storage space donations. Recently, Apple Storage collaborated with a charity to provide free storage and moving services for residents of Wang Fuk Court, Tai Po, assisting them during their relocation and home clearing process.
Hashtag: #AppleStorage
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Apple Storage
With over 120 branches across Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories, Apple Storage offers professional, compliant, and reliable services. Most branches are conveniently located near MTR stations.
Act Now – Reclaim Your Living Space.
Learn more about our latest offers: https://www.applestorage.com.hk/en/
Inquiry Hotline: 8208 9822
WhatsApp: 
https://wa.me/46383118
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