ACN Newswire

Quam Announces 2012/13 Annual Results

Wed,19 June 2013 17:00:44 +0000

Core Businesses Securities and Asset Management Remained Stable
Amid Bear Markets

Hong Kong, June 19, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - Quam Limited ("Quam" or the "Group", Stock Code: 00952.hk), a Hong Kong-based financial services group, announces its audited annual results for the year ended 31 March 2013 (the "Year").

During the Year, revenue of Quam amounted to HK$330.4 million (2012: HK$358.3 million), representing a decrease of 7.8% compared to the corresponding period last year. The Group recorded a loss of HK$18.9 million (2012: loss of HK$24.5 million), which was mainly due to the impairment provision regarding a private equity investment in a PET water bottle manufacturer in the PRC held through our stake in a jointly controlled entity, and the double rent and reinstatement for the transition to the new offices incurred in the first half of the Year. Basic loss per share were HK1.61 cent (2012: loss per share of HK2.34 cent).

The Group's Board of Directors did not recommend the payment of a final dividend for the year ended 31 March 2013 (2012 annual dividend: Nil).

Mr Kenneth LAM, the Chief Executive Officer of Quam, said, "In the face of bear markets caused by the global financial crisis and European debt crisis, our core businesses securities and asset management performed relatively well during the Year. Our market share in equities business maintained, with steady futures trading business and healthy securities margin loan book. Asset management division recorded impressive performance compared with benchmarks; we expect this momentum to continue in the coming year with both Asset Under Management ("AUM") and performance fee growth. In addition, corporate finance business was able to maintain its momentum with strong deal flow despite the difficult economic climate. During the Year, we have focused on restructuring our asset management and Quamnet businesses, resulting in cost reduction in both operations."

Revenue of securities and futures business decreased 8.9% to HK$198.6 million (2012: HK$218.0 million) which was mainly attributed to poor market sentiment affecting volume and commission levels. ECM business activity in placement and underwriting fee income for the Year adjusted to HK$9.8 million (2012: HK$12.7 million). Margin loan book at the end of Year
* for identification purpose only

stood at HK$533.1 million (2012: HK$469.3 million) that was supported by sufficient banking facilities. The equity options had positive contribution to the overall securities dealing business while futures dealing commission and activity has a relatively stable base during the Year.

Corporate finance and advisory services was able to maintain its momentum with revenue for the Year amounted to HK$50.4 million (2012: HK$54.3 million). Deal flow continued to be strong and further controls in compliance and work process to ensure an appropriate compliance level were added in order to catch up with new regulatory changes relating to IPO sponsors.

Revenue generated from management fees of Asset Management increased to HK$9.5 million (2012: HK$9.0 million), thanks to better performance on the largest fund Quam China Focus Fund. Total AUM in all its funds stood overUS$61.0 million (2012: US$62.9 million) at the Year end. After a drop in AUM at the beginning of the Year, we witnessed a gradual increase towards the Year end given the performance and renewed confidence in this equity market.

Quamnet's revenue decreased 18.2% to HK$22.0 million (2012: HK$26.9 million), which was due to the significant drop in the advertising and content fee revenue and the slowdown in revenue from website management and related services resulting from unfavorable market. During the Year, new trading tool service Quam Alpha has been soft launched and well received by the market.

Quam has received 85% of the receivables under its claim for client monies from the liquidation of MF Global HK.

In respect to investment of the Group, McMillen Advantage Capital Limited in Dubai has recently advised that they have wound up its investment banking operations and will now focus on liquidating assets for eventual return to all shareholders. The Group also has disposed its entire stake in Seamico Securities Public Company Limited in March and April 2013.

Mr Bernard POULIOT, the Chairman of Quam concluded, "The economic climate seems to be showing some positive signs of recovery and stability after over 3 years of uncertainty. We believe the government policy to curtail real estate investment will drive investors to the financial market which the Group is poised to take advantages ahead of an upswing financial market. We will continue to further enhance our product and service offerings in all units, including trading tools for our securities and futures clients, add new products and subscription content through Quamnet, and seek divestment of some of our investments. We aim to sharpen our competitive edge with stronger market responsiveness, better cost control and higher operational efficiency."

About Quam Limited

Quam Limited is a Hong Kong-based financial services group which was listed on the SEHK in 1997. After a series of strategic acquisitions beginning in 2001, the Group is now comprised of seven core businesses namely, Quam Securities, Quam Capital, Quam Asset Management, Quam Private Wealth, Quam Private Equity, Quamnet.com and Quam Investor Relations. By utilizing the best of both its online resources and solid expertise, Quam strives to become the ideal partner for both corporate and individual investors in Hong Kong and China. Quam also offers premier one-stop financial services to its clients. In addition, Quam provides capital markets services through its representative offices or the wholly-owned foreign enterprises in Shenzhen, Shanghai, Shenyang, Ningbo, Dalian, Beijing, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Xiamen of the PRC and through its Global Alliance Partners network in Japan, Thailand, UAE, the United States, Vietnam, the UK, Africa, Mongolia, Nepal, Switzerland, India and Canada. For more information on Quam, please visit its website at www.quamlimited.com .

Contact :

Quam IR 
Ms Anita Wan
Tel: (852) 2217-2811
E-mail: anita.wan@quamgroup.com 

Ms Sharon Au
Tel: (852) 2217-2812
E-mail: sharon.au@quamgroup.com

Asian Oceans Supporting The World Food Reserve

Wed,19 June 2013 12:30:11 +0000

Indonesia, June 19, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - Asian oceans play a central role to support regional and global economic growth. Asia has of two oceans, they are Indian and Pacific Ocean; both have important and strategic roles, not only for environmental services, but also for world's ocean food supply. Owing to the fact that Asian region is covered by water of about 66% from the total of earth's surface and that half of the region is covered by water, it is vital for commodities supplies, services, and also the world trade.

This was conveyed by the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Mr. Sharif C. Sutardjo, when opening the Asia Conference on Oceans, Food Security and Blue Growth (ACOFB) in Bali (Tuesday 18/06) which conducted by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Netherland Government supported by World Bank and UN-FAO.

The role of Asian marine sector in the future will have significant contribution to the environment, energy, food, and other environmental services in supporting food security and economic growth. Asian oceans is also has the role to slow down global warming and climate change, as well as for physical variability that has wide impact on all life aspects. Non-biological resources from Asian region have provided supplies and economic prospects such as sea minerals, gas, and energy. Meanwhile, abundant marine biological resources and its high level of biodiversity, both capture fisheries and aquaculture, contribute to the community's food supply.

For enriching the outcomes of the Asia conference, this meeting builds on 3 parallel events: The Indian Ocean and Pacific Conference (IOPAC), the Marine and Fisheries Investment Forum (MFIF), and ACOFB, which are highly important forums for Asian countries. Considering that the outcome will be an Action Plan and commitment for the countries to deal with marine-based food security issue through blue growth framework.

The result of this conference will further develop a Road Map which is significant to the region's future. It will furthermore be brought to the Global Ocean Action Summit (9-13 September 2013), the Hague-Netherlands. As Mr. Sharif asserted.

Indonesia has played a major role in food security issue. The successful The World Ocean Conference 2009 in Indonesia has redefined the critical role of oceans to respond to climate change and food security. Therefore, through this Asia Conference Indonesia takes the initiative to pursue world's ocean vision into action that would be Asia's road map to blue growth.

Combining oceans' roles, blue growth and food security, the conference has become the benchmark for policy makers, international monetary institutions, investors, scholars, NGOs and private sectors to contribute and establish partnerships. "ACOFB and IOPAC are believed to give maximum output. Support from scientists will help creating blue investment to sustain blue growth which is the input of fisheries products to maintain food security," he said.

Blue Investment Economy

According to Mr. Sharif, the result of ACOFB 2013 is expected to be in accordance with the commitment of Indonesian government in managing marine and fisheries sector. The shift to new paradigm, which is blue growth-based for marine and fisheries resources, shows that Indonesia acknowledges the significance of oceans as the main driving force for development. It is primarily intended to support national economic growth, poverty alleviations, reduction of carbon emissions, countermeasures for illegal fishing (IUU), optimization of the function of environmental services, and acceleration of industrialization within the blue economy framework.

"The development of marine affairs and fisheries in Indonesia is essentially based on blue economy concept. This is in line with the President's pronouncement on Plenary Session United National Conference on Sustainable Development on June 2012 in Rio de Janeiro, that blue economy is our next deadline in which by implementing it we will maximize the environmental services and sustainable economic values," Mr. Sharif explained.

The implementation of blue economy concept in industrialization of marine and fisheries is crucial. To boost marine and fisheries investment, Indonesian government has enacted policies to create conducive climate for investment that attracts new investor and also to facilitate mediation, promotion and cutting restrictions to investors. These policies are predominantly to assist enterprises and investors creating investment in marine and fisheries sector.

By providing mediation, facilitation, as well as incentives and promoting investment opportunity, it will give a complete picture on how marine and fisheries investment opportunity in Indonesia is still widely opened. "Through these ACOFB and MFIF, it is also expected to affect the fulfillment of marine and fisheries investment that supports blue economy concept," Mr. Sharif stated.

In addition, this industry is getting more strategic, knowing that it has close linkages with other sectors. Indonesian marine and fisheries sector is a potential motor to shove local and national economy. "Asserting the success of marine and fisheries industrialization based on blue economy framework, the goal of social welfare and food security can be well achieved," said Mr. Sharif.

INDONESIA FISHERIES DATA

- Fish Consumption Level
Dietary pattern:                   31.4 kg per capita / year

- Fisheries Product contributes 66% of total animal products
Consumption level:
Indonesia year 2012:               33.8 kg per capita / year
Indonesia year 2011:               32.2 kg per capita / year
Asia year 2011:                    20.9 kg per capita / year

- Domestic Fishery Productions
Indonesia year 2012:                      15.26 million tons
Capture fishery production:                5.81 million tons
Aquaculture fishery production:            9.45 million tons
Indonesia year 2011:                      12.39 million tons
Capture fishery production:                5.41 juta ton
Aquaculture production:                    6.98 million tons

- Domestic Processed Fishery Products Volume
Processed products volume 2012:            4.83 million tons
Processed products volume 2011:            4.5  million tons

Trade Balance

- Exports Fishery Product
Indonesia year 2012                         US$  3.9 billion
Indonesia year 2011                         US$  3.5 billion
Asia year 2011                              US$ 49.7 billion 
                                 (39% of world total export)

- Imports Fishery Product
Indonesia year 2012                        US$ 412.3 million
Indonesia year 2011                        US$ 492.5 million
Asia year 2011                             US$  42.5 million

- Work force, Fishery Processing Unit and Investment in 2012
Work force for fish processing / distribution 6.3 mil people
Fishery Processing Unit is 619 units
Investment ammounting to Rp.2,067 trillion = USD206 million

Please contact:

Anang Noegroho
Acting Director of Data Statistics and Information Center
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
Mob: +62-811-806-2444
Email: pusdatin@kkp.go.id

Contact :

Anang Noegroho
Acting Director of Data Statistics and Information Center
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
Mob: +62-811-806-2444

Meralco Streamlines Service Delivery Using Panasonic Toughpad(TM)

Wed,19 June 2013 12:00:18 +0000

Leading electric distribution utility company in the Philippines is first in the Asia Pacific region to deploy world's first fully ruggedized tablet to enhance customer service

Manila, Philippines, June 19, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - Panasonic Toughbook, an industry leader in rugged, reliable handheld and tablet computers since 1996, today announced that Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is the first in the Asia Pacific region to utilize the Panasonic Toughpad(TM) as a computing solution to boost service delivery within its franchise area. Meralco currently services 5.2 million residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Luzon.

"We are committed to delivering adequate, reliable and affordable electric service to our customers by constantly studying and pursuing the use of new technological innovations to enhance service and create value for our customers, our community and our country," said Mr. Marthyn Cuan, Meralco's Vice President and Chief Information Officer. The Panasonic Toughpad(TM) is aligned with our mobility solution for the field personnel. This will enable us to ensure service delivery no matter what the environment conditions are, 24/7, all year round."

Ensuring network reliability and service quality is critical to Meralco which services the country's centre of commerce and industry, as well as the hub of government services and infrastructure. To date, 60% of the total manufacturing output is generated within its franchise area.

With its field personnel constantly on the go and covering multitude of electrical circuits across cities, the Panasonic Toughpad(TM) offers them the durability needed to withstand harsh weather and extreme conditions; and the mobile 3G connection to access and transmit information -- facilitating collaboration among team members regardless of location. This increases the efficiency in remedial response to ensure that any down-time of service is minimized.

"We are proud to be part of Meralco's mobility project and its efforts to develop a future-ready energy company for the Philippines through its use of technology to drive operational efficiency and reliability. The deployment of the Panasonic Toughpad(TM) by an industry leader like Meralco shows the reliability and trust that companies and governments all around the world have in the Panasonic Toughbook computing devices," said Mr. Satoshi Mizobata, Director, Toughbook Asia Pacific Group, Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific. "Our Toughpad(TM) with its world-class connectivity, performance, portability and unrivalled durability will ensure that harsh working conditions in these industries are no longer a barrier to productivity."

About The Manila Electric Company

Meralco (PSE: MER) is listed in the Philippines' top five corporations and cited among Asia's finest. It is the country's largest electric power distribution company with a franchise area covering 9,337 sq. km., serving over 5 million residential, commercial and industrial customers in 34 cities and 77 municipalities. It is within Meralco's service area where almost half of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is generated.

Meralco celebrated its 110 year in service in 2013 and continues forward to become the total energy solutions provider of choice. More information about Meralco can be found at http://www.meralco.com.ph/. For the latest news, log on to http://www.meralco.com.ph/company/page-about-news.html.

About Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific

Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific (PSY) is a business division of Panasonic Asia Pacific Pte Ltd; Regional HQ for the Asia Pacific region for Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Matsushita Electric is one of the only manufacturers today that directly controls the process of design, manufacture and quality assurance of its notebook PCs. Many key components, including LCD panels, Lithium Ion batteries, DVD and CDROM drives, and board-level electronics are the products of its divisions. The products, people and business of Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific are entirely dedicated to the needs of the professional user, including Fortune 1000 business and government professionals. Panasonic also supplies ruggedized computing solutions for military and heavy industry usage in Asia Pacific. For more information, please visit http://www.panasonic.com.sg/ and http://www.panasonic.com.ph/.

For more information:
The Manila Electric Company (Meralco): www.meralco.com.ph
The Panasonic Toughpad: www.panasonictoughbook.asia

For more information, please contact:

Gladys Wong
Marketing Executive
Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific
Toughbook Asia Group (TAG)
DID: +65 6277 7253
HP: +65 9457 7441
Email: gladys.wong@sg.panasonic.com

Gabriel Tan
Senior Account Executive
Ogilvy Public Relations
DID: +65 6213 6956
HP: +65 9644 2445
Email: gabriel.tan@ogilvy.com

Contact :

Anang Noegroho
Acting Director of Data Statistics and Information Center
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
Mob: +62-811-806-2444

Panasonic Introduces New 7" Toughpad(TM) to its Enterprise-grade Tablet Line

Wed,19 June 2013 12:00:0 +0000

7" Android 4.0 Tablet Offers Handheld Convenience To Mobile Users Without Compromising On Ruggedness, Security, And Connectivity

Singapore, June 19, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - Panasonic, an industry leader in rugged, reliable mobile computers since 1996, expanded its Toughpad(TM) line of enterprise-grade tablets with the introduction of the Toughpad(TM) JT-B1 today at the CommunicAsia 2013 in Singapore.

The JT-B1 is a 7" Android-powered unit that follows the previous release of the 10" Toughpad(TM) FZ-A1 (Android), and the 10" Toughpad(TM) FZ-G1 (Windows 8 Pro). Toughpad(TM) tablets are designed for mission-critical and highly mobile workers in the logistics, utilities, telecommunication, construction, healthcare, and the military, among others. With the expanded Toughpad(TM) range, businesses and government institutions have a single partner delivering a selection of highly reliable and purpose-built devices ideal for various operational needs.

"As the market leader in the rugged mobile computing space for nearly 20 years, Panasonic Toughbook has built up a reputation as a reliable solutions provider, with its engineering expertise, world class services, and extensive knowledge of vertical markets," said Mr Satoshi Mizobata, Director of Toughbook Asia Pacific Group. "Our customers are confident in our products and their ability to deliver performance and return on investments. The Toughpad(TM) JT-B1 is a great addition to our family of rugged tablets with its compact size, ergonomic design, high durability, and advanced security features."

The JT-B1 is one of the lightest Panasonic mobile computers around and comes with a back strap that allows for one-handed use, ideal for a host of usage scenarios, including inventory control, eForms, field sales, field service, inspections, route delivery, and mobile point-of-sales.

Proven standards of ruggedness and durability

The Toughpad(TM) family is designed to meet the same durability standards as Panasonic's Toughbook laptop product line. The Toughpad(TM) JT-B1 has a MIL-STD-810G rating for 150cm drops as well as an IP65 rated for resistance to dust and water. The device is able to operate reliably in extreme conditions that render typical tablets non-operational.

Addressing enterprise security

Enterprise-class mobile computing requires an enhanced level of device security that is not available in today's tablet market. To address this need, the Toughpad(TM) JT-B1 incorporates security features embedded physically into the device and offers hardware and software encryption, IPsec VPN, root protection, trusted boot as well as device management. This ensures the Toughpad(TM) JT-B1 will be compliant with FIPS 140-2 for use in government departments and regulated industries like financial and health-care institutions. Compatibility with world-class Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools are also available to allow IT managers to manage applications, secure devices from unauthorised use, and perform many other tasks.

All-day connectivity on the move

The Toughpad(TM) JT-B1 offers as standard Bluetooth(R) v4.0 + EDR (Class 2), 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, GPS, optional integrated 3G mobile broadband, and Near Field Communication (NFC) capability. The device allows 8 hours of nonstop computing and the battery is replaceable, ensuring mid-life battery upgrades. The Toughpad(TM) JT-B1 has daylight viewable screens, allowing mobile workers in markets like supply chain logistics and utilities, to clearly see critical data under bright sunlight.

Availability

The Toughpad(TM) JT-B1 will be available in Singapore in August. All Toughpad(TM) tablets can be purchased through authorised Panasonic resellers. For further information, please visit www.panasonictoughbook.asia .

All products in the Toughpad(TM) family come standard with the industry's most comprehensive 3-year warranty.

About Panasonic Toughbook

Built to enable productivity, efficiency and innovation, Panasonic's Toughbook series of rugged, reliable handheld and tablet computers have been changing the way Asian companies do business since 1996. Engineered to perform, the Toughbook series is the tool of choice for highly mobile workers who execute mission-critical tasks which require enhanced security, advanced device management and superior connectivity. Whether it's a government looking to stop illegal logging in a rainforest, or a hospital that needs to improve the accuracy of information being captured at the point of care or even an enterprise where service advisors need access to information in the field, more and more organizations are turning to Panasonic to create a truly mobile enterprise. For more information, please go to www.panasonictoughbook.asia .

About Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific

Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific (PSY) is a business division of Panasonic Asia Pacific Pte Ltd; Regional HQ for the Asia Pacific region for Panasonic Corporation. Panasonic Corporation is one of the only manufacturers today that directly controls the process of design, manufacture and quality assurance of its notebook PCs. Many key components, including LCD panels, Lithium Ion batteries, DVD and CDROM drives, and board-level electronics are the products of its divisions. The products, people and business of Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific are entirely dedicated to the needs of the professional user, including Fortune 1000 business and government professionals. Panasonic also supplies ruggedized computing solutions for military and heavy industry usage in Asia Pacific. For more information, please visit http://www.panasonic.com.sg/.

For more information, please contact:

Gladys Wong
Toughbook Asia Group (TAG)
Panasonic Systems Asia Pacific
DID: +65 6277 7253
Mobile: +65 9457 7441
Email: gladys.wong@sg.panasonic.com

Gabriel Tan
Senior Account Executive
Ogilvy Public Relations
DID: +65 6213 6956
Mobile: +65 9644 2445
Email: gabriel.tan@ogilvy.com

Contact :

Anang Noegroho
Acting Director of Data Statistics and Information Center
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
Mob: +62-811-806-2444

JCB and Hua Nan Bank to Launch Debit Card with Contactless Functionality in Taiwan

Wed,19 June 2013 09:00:16 +0000

Tokyo, June 19, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCBI), the international subsidiary of JCB, the only global payment brand based in Japan is pleased to announce that Hua Nan Bank JCB LOVE TSCC Debit Card will be launched this coming August.

Hua Nan Bank JCB LOVE TSCC Debit Card is the first debit card that has an option to be equipped with TSCC, offered by Easy Card Corporation. TSCC is a contactless payment service, which can be used as a fare card on trains and buses, and also accepted at some shops and restaurants. In addition, Hua Nan Bank JCB LOVE TSCC Debit Card is the first debit Precious card, the highest status card of JCB in Taiwan, which offers exclusive services including free airport transportation and special offers at high-end restaurants.

JCBI has been expanding business in Taiwan since 1981, and now has alliances with 30 partner banks and financial institutions for merchant acquiring and card issuing. Hua Nan Bank, a partner since 2000, is now the largest JCB card issuer in Taiwan.

Kimihisa Imada, Deputy President of JCBI stated, "It is a great pleasure to start issuing such a unique card with top JCB card issuer, Hua Nan Bank. While expanding the JCB cardmember base worldwide, we strive to deliver various kinds of products contributing to more convenient consumer lifestyles in each market. Currently the number of JCB cardmembers in Taiwan has exceeded 1.5 million, and we expect the launch of this card will provide higher quality services to more people, which will lead to development of the debit card market in the region."

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes over 24 million merchants and over a million cash advance locations in 190 countries and territories. JCB cards are now issued in 16 countries and territories, with more than 80 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with more than 350 leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, visit: www.jcbcorporate.com/english .

Contact:

JCB International Co., Ltd.
Ayako Tanaka, Junko Asaoka
Corporate Planning
Phone: +81-3-5778-8390
Email: ayako.tanaka@jcb.co.jp, junko.asaoka@jcb.co.jp

Contact :

Anang Noegroho
Acting Director of Data Statistics and Information Center
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
Mob: +62-811-806-2444

Hong Kong's Offshore Trade Surging: HKTDC Study

Wed,19 June 2013 08:50:3 +0000

Export Index at Two-Year High; Prospects Remain Challenging

Hong Kong, June 19, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - Offshore trade as a share of Hong Kong's overall commercial activity has surged from less than 19 per cent in 1988 to 65 per cent in 2012, according to the "Offshore Trade Survey," which completed recently by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). Results reveal how important offshore trade activities are to the Hong Kong economy.

Changing Export Picture

At a media conference today, Nicholas Kwan, who joined the HKTDC as Director of Research in May, noted that there have been substantial changes in the way Hong Kong's export companies operate over the last two decades. "Many Hong Kong trading companies have set up factories on the Chinese mainland and are exporting their products directly overseas without going through Hong Kong," said Mr Kwan. "Such exports are not included in Hong Kong's export data." In addition, some local manufacturers are producing goods on the mainland for domestic sales, according to Mr Kwan. "All these offshore trade activities play a decisive role in Hong Kong's economy, yet its achievements in this respect are not borne out by ordinary statistical data."

Offshore Trade: Major Sectors

According to the Offshore Trade Survey, offshore trade accounts for more than 70 per cent of Hong Kong exports in clothing/textiles, gifts/ornaments/imitation jewellery, toys and household items/lightings. In the stationery/paper products/packaging material sector alone, more than 91 per cent of exports are carried out through offshore trade and are not, therefore, included in Hong Kong Government figures.

Hong Kong has developed into a key regional trade and logistics hub, according to Pansy Yau, HKTDC Deputy Director of Research (Greater China), who also spoke at the press conference. "Hong Kong's trading sector is expanding, and the volume of goods it's handling is increasing," she said. "Though the processes, from production to export of these goods, are not carried out in Hong Kong, the companies' corporate management, sales, marketing and trade financing, as well as the handling of trade and customs documents, are all responsibilities of their Hong Kong offices." Given this, said Ms Yau, it is apparent that such offshore trade activities are important to the economy of Hong Kong. She added that, if Hong Kong hoped to maintain its trade prominence, it must upgrade its trade and logistics infrastructure, control costs and increase investments in personnel training.

Export Index Up

At the press conference, Daniel Poon, HKTDC Principal Economist (Global Research), revealed that the HKTDC Export Index for the second quarter had climbed 3.9 points, to 53.4, a two-year high. In addition, the index had broken through the watershed mark of 50, returning to expansionary territory. Nevertheless, Mr Poon's response was measured. "While there has been an overall improvement in the export sentiment, there is no clear direction among the various industries," he said. He noted that, while electronics had been the best-performing sector, and jewellery and timepieces had also improved markedly, the clothing, toys and machinery sectors had weakened. In general, the surveyed companies were still upbeat about the mainland market, so much so that the mainland's second-quarter index was 52.7, indicating an expansion in the short term. The indices for the United States, European Union and Japanese markets were all hovering around the 50 mark, reflecting more or less neutral views from exporters.

The second-quarter purchase index jumped 10 points, to 65.8, year-on-year, underlining the optimistic mood in purchasing. Mr Poon said that, as Hong Kong businesspeople expect a rise in input costs, they might restock more raw material or goods for future use.

Export Challenges

Mr Poon said that, while the second-quarter export indices had improved, Hong Kong's export prospects still faced challenges. He noted that demand from such traditional trading partners as the EU and the US had been slipping, though the negative impact was partially offset by growth in exports to the mainland and a number of emerging economies.

The HKTDC Research Department forecasts that Hong Kong's total exports this year will grow by four per cent, year-on-year. Mr Kwan added, however, that adverse factors could hurt that forecast. The most obvious risks, he said, are that the global economy might slide back into recession, along with the rising prospects of protectionism and sustained geopolitical tensions

Video: http://youtu.be/2swZCSCbb8A

About HKTDC

A statutory body established in 1966, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is the international marketing arm for Hong Kong-based traders, manufacturers and service providers. With more than 40 global offices, including 11 on the Chinese mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a platform for doing business with China and throughout Asia. The HKTDC also organises trade fairs and business missions to connect companies with opportunities in Hong Kong and on the mainland, while providing information via trade publications, research reports and online. For more information, please visit:www.hktdc.com . Follow us on Google+, LinkedIn.

Google+: https://plus.google.com/115493155911999091508?prsrc=3
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/hong-kong-trade-development-council

Contact:

HKTDC
Corporate Communication Department
Joe Kainz
Tel: +852 2584 4216
Email: joe.kainz@hktdc.org

Contact :

Anang Noegroho
Acting Director of Data Statistics and Information Center
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
Mob: +62-811-806-2444

Bio Farma Urges OIC Countries to become Self-Reliant in Vaccine

Tue,18 June 2013 23:45:42 +0000

Bandung, Indonesia, June 18, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - The 123-year old Indonesian vaccine manufacturer Bio Farma has urged Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member countries to be self-reliant in vaccines as imports from industrialized countries are costly.

"Some Islamic countries do have their vaccine making companies but they are not yet recognized by the WHO," said Rahman Rustan, Bio Farma Corporate Secretary, in a workshop organized by Bio Farma in conjuction with the 2nd meeting of OIC vaccine- and medicine manufacturers, here.

In the workshop Indonesia offered to share experience with OIC member countries to strengthen their national regulatory authority (NRA) function in vaccine manufacuring for global markets, held on Monday, the second day of the three-day meeting that wraps up on Wednesday, 19 June 2013.

Rustan added vaccine supplies in developing countries are necessary to prevent infectious diseases, however, as there are limitations on the vaccine industry in developing countries supplies have to be imported from other countries. "We therefore encourage OIC countries to be self-reliant in vaccine," he said.

He went on to say that the vaccines that are needed are those which can be purchased at affordable prices so that they can be used in developing countries. Vaccines which are made in the developed countries are fairly expensive for imports by developing countries.

In practice, Rustan disclosed developing countries obtain vaccines at affordable prices by buying them from developing countries, including Indonesia which has Bio Farma, one of the vaccine producers in a developing country that has already received recognition and standardization of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Bio Farma itself after 123 years of existence, remains focused on research into vaccines. Even in the national immunization program in 2013 Bio Farma developed a new product called Pentabio for disease prevention of Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hepatitis B and Haemophilius Influenzae Type B.

In the workshop, Lucky S. Slamet, head of Indonesia National Agency for Food and Drug Control, also said she was to share with all OIC member countries experiences in strengthening national regulatory authority functions in vaccine manufacturing.

According to her, NRAs hold a decisive role in guaranteeing the quality of vaccine supplied to the global markets. The WHO always engages NRAs through capacity building efforts so as to ever strengthen them.

"Out of the total 57 OIC member states only five countries having their vaccine manufacturers and out of this five only one that can export its products, namely Bio Farma," Slamet emphasized.

"The WHO has declared us, the Indonesian National Agency of Food and Drug Control, to have performed an international standard control function on vaccine. With this achievement, Indonesia now has a wide opportunity - through Bio Farma - to export its products to international markets," she pointed out.

Bio Farma is Indonesia's only vaccine manufacturer whose products have been recognized by WHO since 1997 that the company can supply its products to over 120 countries.

Currently the needs for Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) vaccines in Indonesia have been supplied solely by Bio Farma by producing and distributing over 1.7 billion doses of vaccine per year to meet the needs of EPI vaccine for national immunization program.

Bio Farma has an outstanding international reputation based on the WHO prequalification for all of its EPI vaccine products and has also implemented green industry and is environment friendly. WHO acknowledges that Bio Farma vaccine products are of high quality, efficacious, and affordable.

Bio Farma products are available through direct distribution or through various agencies such as UNICEF, PAHO. The company has obtained the Best Export Performance from the Indonesian Trade Ministry consecutively in 2010,2011, 2012 as an evidence of its consistent exceptional performance.

About PT Bio Farma (Persero)

Since its establishment in 1890, PT Bio Farma (Persero) has been active in supplying high quality vaccines and serum for people. Currently, Bio Farma is among the largest vaccines manufacturers and suppliers in the world. The need for EPI vaccines in Indonesia has been supplied solely by Bio Farma.

Bio Farma has existed for a century and proven its strength and experience world wide. The company has also grown and developed to become a vaccine and serum manufacturer of international reputation. This can be seen from its qualifications and ability to acquire WHO prequalification for all of its EPI Vaccine products. For more information, please visit www.biofarma.co.id.

Contact :

M. Rahman Rustan  
Corporate Secretary 
Bio Farma 
+62 22 2033755
+62 22 2041306
e-mail : pr@biofarma.co.id

Indonesia Warns OIC Member States of New Threats to Health

Tue,18 June 2013 23:00:25 +0000

Bandung, Indonesia, June 18, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - The Indonesian government has warned Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states of new and emerging health related threats.

The warning is raised by Indonesian Health Minister Nafsiah Mboi, in a prepared statement read out by the ministry's Expert Staff for Health Technology and Globalization Professor Dr. Agus Purwadianto, in the opening remarks to expert meeting session of the 2nd meeting of OIC vaccine- and medicine-manufacturer, here, on Tuesday.

Experts and health officials from nine countries (that already have vaccine making companies or institutions) out of the total 57 OIC member states are the 3-day meeting that kicked off last Sunday and is to wrap up on 19 June, 2013.

In the expert meeting with the them "The Meeting to Finalize Draft Implementation Plan for OIC Strategic Health Programme of Action 2013-2020," the minister in the written statement says that Indonesia along with OIC member countries therefore are planning a strategic action of health to deal with the impending threats.

This strategic plan of action is being prepared by taking into account or referring to global strategy and commitment on health development, the minister explains. OIC Secretariat and all OIC member countries are expected to actively play their roles in carrying out all decisions already agreed upon by Islamic Conference of Health Minister (ICHM).

In OIC-Health Programme of Action (OIC-SHPA) meeting in Bandung, Indonesia is the host as well as chair of the meeting as Indonesia was the main initiator of the draft for the implementation plan of OIC-SHPA. This document is the first of its kind within the history of OIC health cooperation.

Also, given the importance of Indonesia's roles in the continuity and finalization of OIC-SHPA documents and being an acting chair of OIC SHPA meeting. In addition, Indonesia is the prospective chairman of the Conference of OIC Health Ministers years 2013-2015 along with deputies chairs Kazakhstan and Turkey.

The 2nd meeting of OIC vaccine- and medicine manufacturers is hosted by Bio Farma, Indonesia's only vaccine manufacturer whose products has been recognized by WHO since 1997 so that it export its products to over 120 countries worldwide.

The needs for Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) vaccines in Indonesia have been supplied solely by Bio Farma by producing and distributing over 1.7 billion doses of vaccine per year.

Bio Farma has an outstanding international reputation based on the WHO prequalification for all of its EPI vaccine products. It has also implemented green industry and is environment friendly. WHO acknowledges that Bio Farma vaccine products are of high quality, efficacious, and affordable.

Bio Farma products are through the direct distribution or through various agencies such as UNICEF, PAHO. The company has obtained the Best Export Performance from the Indonesian Trade Ministry consecutively in 2010,2011, 2012 as an evidence of its consistent exceptional performance.

About OIC

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the second largest inter-governmental organization after the United Nations which has membership of 57 states spread over four continents. The Organization is the collective voice of the Muslim world and ensuring to safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony among various people of the world.

About PT Bio Farma (Persero)

Since its establishment in 1890, PT Bio Farma (Persero) has been active in supplying high quality vaccines and serum for people. Currently, Bio Farma is among the largest vaccines manufacturers and suppliers in the world. The need for EPI vaccines in Indonesia has been supplied solely by Bio Farma.

Bio Farma has existed for a century and proven its strength and experience world wide. The company has also grown and developed to become a vaccine and serum manufacturer of international reputation. This can be seen from its qualifications and ability to acquire WHO prequalification for all of its EPI Vaccine products. For more information, please visit www.biofarma.co.id.

Contact :

M. Rahman Rustan  
Corporate Secretary 
Bio Farma 
+62 22 2033755
+62 22 2041306
e-mail : pr@biofarma.co.id

Indonesia Succesfully Tackles Extreme Hunger

Tue,18 June 2013 14:00:8 +0000

Indonesia, June 18, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - The UN's Food and Agriculure Organization (FAO) has successfully completed the first round of the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) by lowering the world's extreme hunger level from 19,9% (1990-1992) to 8,6% between 2010-2012, which exceeds the MDG's initial target of 9,9%. The MDG's #1 objective is to eradicate extreme hunger by lowering the number of the starving population to half of the total population between 1990-2015.

Indonesia successfully lowered the extreme hunger level from 37 million in 1990 to 21 million people in 2012. The target set in the World Food Summit (WFS) is 18,6 million people.

Along with 38 other countries, Indonesia received the FAO's award, given by the Director-General of FAO, Jose Graziano da Silva, to the Republic of Indonesia representative, the Coordinating Minister for Economy, Hatta Radjasa, in the FAO's headquarter in Rome, Italy, on Sunday (June 16). The Summit was attended by 200 delegates of FAO's state members consisting of 11 Presidents, a number of Prime Ministers, and hundreds of ministers.

The award presented to Indonesia, "the Recognition for Outstanding Achievement in Fighting Hunger and Undernourishment", is for the country's achievement in two categories; the "outstanding result" which was presented to 18 1996's MDGs and WFS-succeeded countries and the "notable result" which was presented to 20 MDG's- succeeded countries in terms of the poverty eradication. Indonesia has successfully been awarded with both categories.

Hatta Radjasa said that the government will continue proving its commitment in promoting and increasing the peace and profitable environment in order to eradicate poverty, starvation, food insecurity, and undernourishment by improving the community's prosperity as well as to be a part of the MDGs' global effort.

The government highly prioritizes rural and agriculture development, particularly in rural community empowerment, by strengthening and expanding the public loan facility for the small- and medium-sized business. "The government is striving to provide the poor the better access to the social service, leverage the natural resources for the poor and improve the poor family social protection system.

MMAF Delegates

The MMAF's delegates in The 38th Session of The Food and Agriculture Organization of The United Nations Conference include the Head of the Human Resources Development Agency of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (HRDAMAF), Suseno Sukoyono; HRDAMAF's Head of Programme and Cooperation Secretariat, Lily Aprilya Pregiawati; and Head of Multilateral, International, and Interagency Cooperation Analyst Center (MIICAC), Elvi Wijayanti.

"The MMAF's delegates are a part of 16 Indonesia Delegates (INDEL). In addition to MMAF, Indonesia is also representated by the Agricultural Ministry, Rome-based Embassy of Republic of Indonesia, and Foreign Affairs Ministry," explained Suseno Sukoyono, Head of HRDAMAF.

Suseno continued, beside attending the Summit, the MMAF's delegates also took part in a number of events, such as the conference of the Southern Collaboration Discussion in the Improvement of the Marine and Fishery Human Resource Development Capacity, Coral Triangle Initiatives (CTI), the internship programmes, the books donation for FAO's Library, and the 30th Commitee of Fisheries (COFI) Session report which was held on July 9-13, 2012. In the Session, Indonesia re-affirmed its support to the implementation of the "Ocean Governance" as the novel agenda in the 30th COFI.

The support is also meant to complement the further discussion on the International Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (IGSSF). "Additionally, Indonesia proposed to include the blue economy concept into the conference's agenda. The proposal became such a paramount concern during the Brazil's Rio+20 conference in order to complete the COFI's Ocean Governance agenda," stated Suseno.

Suseno added, the 30th COFI notably took up a number of fishery issues, namely the world's fish state, issue, and needs, the development of the responsible fishery ethic code implementation, and the decisions and recommendations of the 30 COFI's sub-committees on the fish trade, which was addressed on February 20-24, 2012, in India. The conference also accentuated the FAO's main fishery activity since the 29th COFI Session, the FAO's fishery work program, and the chairman and vice chairman election for the 32nd COFI Session.

"The MMAF-FAO collaboration, which has long been intertwined, is not only limited to technically-implemented projects, but it also covers the capacity developing activities, short courses, and information sharing conducted between 2007-2011. In this year, the collaboration is extended by involving all the MMAF's first echelon units," concluded Suseno.

Contact :

Anang Noegroho
Acting Head of Data Statistic and Information Center
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
Tel: +62-81-180-6244

BEX Asia 2013: Southeast Asia gears up in Green City Drive

Tue,18 June 2013 12:30:0 +0000

With new partnerships and greater content, BEX Asia 2013 is set to lend strong support to Asia's green agenda

Singapore, June 18, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - As part of the plan for sustainable development for Singapore's built environment, Singapore rolled out its second Green Building Masterplan in 2009, with focus to green the large stock of existing buildings by 2030. Also, just early this year, Singapore launched the Sustainable Blueprint under the Sustainable Singapore drive which aims to make the city a lively and livable one. This blueprint consists of strategies and initiatives needed for Singapore to head in this direction and beckons individuals, companies and the government to all play their part.

Singapore is certainly not alone in her efforts and is joined by other nations in the region. Thailand has its "Low Carbon City" initiative which aims to help achieve reductions in GHG emissions and catalyse this shift to a low carbon society. The Philippines too has its green initiative that will serve to enhance the quality of life for citizens.

As the region forges ahead with its green agenda, Singapore in particular, has also repeatedly highlighted the importance of Public Private Partnership (PPP) for its green-city drive to gain greater momentum. A city can only be considered truly green if infrastructure in the form of residential, industrial and commercial all consciously incorporates green elements into design and functionality.

"Since 2009, BEX Asia has taken the lead to drive the industry green movement by providing a platform for regional interaction," said Ms Louise Chua, Project Director of Reed Exhibitions which organises BEX Asia.

She also added that, "Through the provision of this platform to facilitate the exchange of technologies and ideas, we hope to be able to help propel the industry to its next stage and encourage companies to take a more integrated approach in terms of adopting green technologies and methods."

- BEX Asia 2013 - Greater emphasis on energy efficiency solutions

As a key green show in the region that promises a multi-disciplinary showcase of the latest green solutions for residential and commercial developments, it is imperative that BEX Asia to be always ahead and aware of the latest market trends. Noting an increase in demand for energy efficiency solutions, BEX Asia 2013 will see a brand new Energy Efficiency Trail that aims to offer a comprehensive range of green solutions from green system software to Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems.

In particular, green lighting solutions will be in focus on this Energy Efficiency Trail.

"When it comes to solutions on energy efficiency, the potential savings from lighting has not been fully exploited," says Mr Tiew Chew Meng, President of the Lighting Association Singapore (LAS), which is collaborating with BEX Asia 2013.

"Lighting forms approximately 20 per cent of total energy consumption of typical office and residential buildings. Now more than ever, people are aware that with a little more attention to lighting, energy consumption for lighting can be reduced by as much as 50 per cent. While demand for green lighting solutions is picking up, advances in lighting technologies and efficiencies in recent years also mean there is still a lot to be done to encourage quicker adoption of energy-saving lighting. It is very heartening to see that BEX Asia 2013 has taken note of this," he added.

Green lighting firms who will be participating in BEX Asia 2013 includes Asto Systems, Dr. LED and EP Lite, amongst others.

- BEX Asia 2013 - New participation and collaborations

On top of the greater depth in its energy efficiency content offered this year, BEX Asia 2013 will also cover more green issues and see new country participation; Japan, will be coming in as a country pavilion for the very first time.

Japan has always been a strong advocate of the green movement through the use of state-of-the-art technology. Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), a government affiliated organisation, works not only to help Japanese SMEs promote regional collaborations and maximise business potentials, but also to push forward the regional green agenda leveraging on an excellent platform like BEX Asia.

JETRO will be leading more than 15 Japanese companies and delegates to BEX Asia 2013.

BEX Asia 2013 will be held in conjunction with the inaugural edition of World Engineering Summit (WES) 2013 and also the International Green Building Conferences (IGBC) 2013, making it a truly holistic and an all-encompassing green show.

While BEX Asia 2013 offers green solutions for residential and commercial properties, the WES focuses on larger issues like infrastructure, industrial developments and climate change. Together, they complement each other to provide a comprehensive platform of thought leadership and practical architectural, design and engineering solutions for the industry in the region.

To be held between 11 and 13 September 2013 at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre, BEX Asia 2013 will see more than 300 international exhibitors come together showcasing the largest range of green products in South East Asia.

Media registration is now opened. Please visit http://www.bex-asia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Louann Wong
Ninemer Public Relations P L
Email: louannwong@ninemer.com
Mobile: +65 9728 8771
DID: +65 6534 8020

Lee Ling
Ninemer Public Relations P L
Email: leeling@ninemer.com
Mobile: +65 97206119
DID: +65 65348020

Contact :

Anang Noegroho
Acting Head of Data Statistic and Information Center
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
Tel: +62-81-180-6244