TOKYO, Mar 19, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI), the Honda motorcycle production and sales subsidiary in India, will add a third production line to its second plant (Tapukara, Alwar district, Rajasthan) in India. The new line is scheduled to become operational in 2028, with annual production capacity of 670,000 units, bringing the total capacity of the second plant to 2.01 million units. HMSI Second Plant Motorcycle production line in HMSI Second PlantThe second plant of HMSI began motorcycle production in July 2011, with an initial production capacity of 600,000 units, which was doubled to 1.2 million units in March 2012. Furthermore, since 2023, the second plant has been introducing new technologies in stages to automate machining processes and further increase the overall production efficiency. As a result, the second plant currently has annual production capacity of 1.3 million units. HMSI continues to introduce new technologies with a plan to increase annual production capacity of its second plant to 1.34 million units before the end of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2027.In order to accommodate the continuous growth and diversification of motorcycle demand in India, HMSI will invest approximately 15 billion rupees to acquire 74,000 m² of land adjacent to its second plant to build a third production line. The new line will be designed to be flexible to produce total 670,000 units of 125cc and 160cc scooters and light motorcycles combined. The addition of this new line will create 2,000 new jobs and increase the total production capacity of the second plant to 2.01 million units.In addition to building a third line at the second plant, HMSI is planning to further increase production capacity of other HMSI plants. When the plans are completed, overall HMSI annual production capacity will increase from the current 6.25 million units to 8 million units by 2028.Comments by Tsutsumu Otani, HMSI President & CEO“The motorcycle market in India has been growing steadily alongside the country’s economic growth. In order to fulfill the expectorations and trust of customers in India and all around the world, Honda remains committed to strengthening our system and capability to supply our products to the market. Through this additional investment in our second plant, we will continue to offer compelling products and services, which will bring greater joy to our customers.” About Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd.EstablishedAugust 1999 (Operation began May 2001)Head OfficeIMT Manesar, Gurugram District, Haryana StateCapital3.1 billion rupeesInvestment ratioHonda Motor Co., Ltd.: 97%Asian Honda Motor Co., Ltd.: 3%RepresentativeTsutsumu Otani, President & CEOBusiness scopeMotorcycle manufacturing and salesProduction capacity- First plant (Manesar, Gurgaon district, Haryana): 380,000 units/year- Second plant (Tapukara, Alwar district, Rajasthan):1.3 million units/year- Third plant (Narasapura, Bangalore district, Karnataka): 2.6 million units/year- Fourth plant (Vithalapur, Ahmedabad district, Gujarat):1.97 million units/yearProduction modelsGasoline (ICE): Activa, Activa125, Dio110, Dio125, Shine100, Livo, Shine125, SP125, CB125 Hornet, Unicorn, SP160, Hornet2.0, NX200, CB350, CB350 H'ness, CB350RS, NAVi, CB100, Dream110, CB125F, X Blade, CB200X, NX190, CB TWISTER 300, GB350Electric (EV): ACTIVA e:, QC1Employment Approximately 24,000 associates Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Mar 19, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda announced that the Honda WN7 electric motorcycle has won the Gold Award, the highest honor in the Product Design discipline of the iF DESIGN AWARD, one of the most prestigious design awards in the world. This marks the first time a Honda product has won the Gold Award at the iF DESIGN AWARD.As the first Honda electric naked model in the FUN category, the Honda WN7 was developed with the concept of “Be the Wind.” This model represents part of a Honda initiative toward the realization of a carbon neutral society. Adoption of a frameless structure, with the battery case functioning as the body frame, contributed to the realization of a lightweight body with a great layout flexibility. Moreover, the Honda WN7 features a maximum output of 50 kW, equivalent to a 600 cc ICE (internal combustion engine) motorcycle, and maximum torque of 100 Nm, comparable to a 1000 cc class ICE motorcycle. This ensures powerful yet composed performance both in stop-and-go city riding and cruising on open roads.Honda WN7Key design featuresAiming to “refine functionality and realize the essence of motorcycle design,” the design features seamless and smooth surfacing when it comes in contact with the rider, while combining a distinctive and powerful silhouette. The signature headlight features an iconic horizontal bar design, and the color styling features a black-based body accented by gold component parts.iF Gold StatementThe Honda WN7 electric motorcycle masterfully combines classic motorbike DNA with a confident electric identity. It respects Honda’s legacy while embracing clean-energy aesthetics. The synthesis feels authentic, not forced, resulting in a unique design that is more than the sum of its parts. Bravo!Comments by Toshinobu Minami, Managing Director, Chief Operating Officer, Design Center, Honda R&D Co., Ltd.“The Honda WN7 was able to win the Gold Award in the Product Design discipline of the world-renowned iF DESIGN AWARD. We are extremely honored to receive the Gold Award for the first time ever. We believe that this is the result of the jury’s understanding of the new value befitting the era of electrification – the joy of riding freely like the wind – from the perspective of both functionality and design. Honda will continue to create new values that surprise and inspire people and provide the joy of expanding their life’s potential.”Honda Design award history:https://global.honda/jp/design/work/#award (Japanese)https://global.honda/en/design/work/#award (English)Official website of the iF DESIGN AWARD:https://ifdesign.com/ja/winner-ranking/project/honda-wn7/740437 (Japanese)https://ifdesign.com/en/winner-ranking/project/honda-wn7/740437 (English)* The iF DESIGN AWARD, established in 1954, stands as a symbol of design excellence and it’s considered one of the world’s leading design awards, alongside the Red Dot Design Award. The iF International Forum Design GmbH headquartered in Hanover, Germany, is the founder and organizer of the iF DESIGN AWARD, one of the most recognized global design competitions. The iF DESIGN AWARD consists of nine disciplines: Product Design, Package Design, Branding & Communication Design, Interior Architecture, Concept, Service, System & Process Design, Architecture, User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI). Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Hydrolution EZY Series (Left: 6 kW, 7.1 kW Right: 10 kW, 14 kW)TOKYO, Mar 19, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has expanded its lineup in the "Hydrolution EZY" series of air-to-water (ATW) heat pumps for the European market that utilize R290 natural refrigerant. New models with capacities of 10kW and 14kW have been added to the two existing 6kW and 7.1kW models to meet a wide range of needs in the region. MHI Thermal Systems plans to release the new models successively in European markets starting this spring.ATW heat pumps extract heat from the air to supply cold and hot water for hot water supply, heating, and cooling. The monobloc type models added to the lineup have a water heat exchanger built into the outdoor unit, so only water lines need to be fitted, allowing for easier installation than split-type ATWs, which require refrigerant pipe connections. In addition, R290 refrigerant has an extremely low global warming potential of 0.02,(Note) and has been attracting attention, mainly in the increasingly tight regulatory environment of Europe, for its high energy efficiency and low environmental impact.The newly added 10kW and 14kW models, like the 6kW and 7.1kW models, have the basic features of high temperature hot water supply, high efficiency, low noise, and safety. Modifications to components to be compatible with the new refrigerant, and the adoption of a new in-house developed compressor, allow the units to maintain a high flow temperature of 75℃ under a wide range of conditions, from an outside temperature of minus 25℃ to plus 43℃. The 10kW and 14kW models are also equipped with separate electronic expansion valves for heating and cooling, allowing for optimal control and high efficiency over a wide range. For low noise operation, the units have a double vibration isolation structure, a triple sound-absorbing structure, and a large fan, and can be set to quiet mode to further reduce operating noise, thereby providing flexibility to comply with noise regulations in densely populated residential areas. Additionally, the units have been designed with safety in mind, and are equipped with a refrigerant leak detection sensor.The design concept is the same as that for the 6kW and 7.1kW models. The units are black to blend seamlessly with European residences, and are fitted with a fan guard accented with a silver vertical stripe. The structure makes it difficult to see the fan from an angle, completing an exterior design that is powerful and sophisticated, while also blending into the background in a variety of installation environments. The only difference in appearance from the 6kW and 7.1kW models is the height, creating a sense of cohesion even when multiple units are installed.In terms of power supply specifications, the 10kW and 14kW models offer a single-phase 230V power supply or a newly added three-phase 400V power supply, making them suitable for a wider variety of installation environments and power supply requirements. Control specifications, as with the 6kW and 7.1kW models, allow for up to eight outdoor units to be connected and controlled with a single indoor control unit, allowing for use in buildings of various sizes.In October 2021, MHI Group announced its MISSION NET ZERO declaration to reduce CO2 emissions throughout the corporate group and achieve carbon neutrality by 2040, including cutting emissions from its own plants and other production-related facilities, as well as reducing CO2 emissions at customer facilities that use MHI Group products. The Hydrolution EZY series, by supporting the transition from boiler combustion using fossil fuels that emit high concentrations of CO2 to ATW using electricity, can contribute significantly to the promotion of carbon neutrality in European countries, and help MHI Group achieve its environmental goals.Going forward, MHI Thermal Systems will continue to develop environmentally friendly technologies, and by taking advantage of synergies that leverage the company's broad business foundation in the heating and cooling sector, provide optimal thermal solutions, and contribute to carbon neutrality in countries around the world.(Note) Global Warming Potential (GWP) is a coefficient expressing the greenhouse effect of a gas relative to carbon dioxide (CO2), which has a fixed GWP of 1.0. The lower the value, the lower the greenhouse effect and the better for the environment. The GWP value of "0.02" is based on the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

KARIYA, JAPAN, Mar 19, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - DENSO CORPORATION (hereinafter “DENSO”) announced it has invested in Next Core Technologies, Inc. (Headquarters: Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture; President: Yuki Yamamoto; hereinafter “NCT”) with the aim of jointly developing in the field of motor cores(1). These cores utilize iron-based amorphous alloys(2), which are a key materials for strengthening the competitiveness of next-generation Motor Generators (hereinafter “MG”)(3).In the automotive industry, the adoption of electric vehicles such as Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV)(4), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV)(5), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV)(6) are expected to expand over the mid to long term in pursuit of carbon neutrality. As a result, market demand for improved power efficiency in electric vehicles continues to grow. Against this backdrop, higher efficiency is increasingly required of MG, which play a critical role in extending driving range and improving driving performance of electrified vehicles .To meet these market needs, reducing power loss in MG is essential. Among various approaches, iron-based amorphous alloys—which can significantly reduce iron loss(7) occurring in motor cores—are increasingly considered a promising material to realize high-efficiency motors. Under these circumstances, DENSO has decided to invest in NCT, which possesses strong expertise in materials and processing technologies for iron-based amorphous alloys, to achieve early realization of MG’s product competitiveness using this next-generation material.Through this investment, DENSO and NCT will accelerate joint development which aims to establish mass production of highly efficient motor cores for next-generation MG, by combining NCT’s materials and processing technologies for amorphous alloy motor cores with DENSO’s extensive expertise in MG product development. This initiative will contribute to further improvements in the performance of next-generation MG, thereby helping to extend the driving range of electric vehicles and enhance their driving performance. DENSO will continue to create valuable products that meet diverse market needs through proactive collaboration with competitive partners, contributing to the development of a sustainable mobility society and the realization of carbon neutrality.(1) Motor Core: An iron core inside a motor that conducts magnetic flux. It is manufactured by stacking thin electromagnetic steel sheets and has a significant impact on motor performance, efficiency, and heat generation.(2) Iron-Based Amorphous Alloy: A metallic material with a non-crystalline (“amorphous”) atomic structure, enabling significant reduction of iron loss (power loss). However, it is also characterized by hardness and brittleness, making processing and mass production challenging.(3) Motor Generator (MG): A core motor installed in BEVs, PHEVs, and HEVs that serves as the primary driving force during startup and driving, while also generating electricity during deceleration(4) BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle): A vehicle that runs solely on electricity without using gasoline(5) PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle): A vehicle that can run on electricity alone for short distances, similar to a BEV, and also uses gasoline when needed(6) HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle): A vehicle driven by a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor(7) Iron Loss: Energy loss generated in the iron core of motors Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Mar 19, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) will develop a small technology demonstration satellite to conduct in-orbit verification of key technologies essential for realizing future optical communication satellite constellations, including optical communications, high-speed network routing design, and high-capacity millimeter-wave band communications. The design of the satellite-mounted equipment (payload) for this demonstration has now been completed. Moving forward, the payload will be manufactured and integrated into the satellite bus, the common functional component of the satellite, which is scheduled for launch into Earth’s orbit in fiscal year 2027.Rendering of a Small Technology Demonstration SatelliteIn satellite constellations where numerous satellites collaborate and function together, optical communication is increasingly favored over conventional radio for satellite-to-satellite communications. This shift aims to avoid communication interference and enable high-capacity data transmission. However, in order to equip a large number of small satellites with optical communication devices, it is necessary to shorten the development and manufacturing times and reduce costs. Therefore, it is important to utilize general-purpose technologies that are highly functional, high-performance, and have a proven track record of mass production.Furthermore, in optical communication satellite constellations—which consist of tens to thousands of satellites and function as high-speed, dynamically moving mesh networks—high computational power is required for routing processes that enable low-latency, high-capacity communications in orbit. Consequently, high-performance applications are needed that differ from routing designs based on terrestrial network environments.Against this backdrop, NEC will conduct demonstrations of the underlying technologies needed to solve these challenges.Overview of the Technology Demonstration SatelliteThe technology demonstration satellite will conduct the following demonstrations in orbit. This will enable the acquisition of insights that are difficult to obtain using ground-based test facilities, thereby enhancing competitiveness.1. Demonstration of Radiation-Hardened Design for Commercial Optical TransceiversNEC will evaluate the radiation-hardened design for space environments of low-cost, high-performance commercial optical transceivers capable of enabling high-capacity transmission even on small satellites.2. Demonstration of High-Speed Network Routing Processing Technology in SpaceNEC will conduct operational verification using a Versal(TM) Adaptive SoC (*1) device manufactured by U.S.-based AMD, Inc. (*2) for high-performance signal processing, as a key technology required for high-speed network routing processing of data transmission via optical communication satellite constellations. Furthermore, aiming to enhance future satellite development, NEC will also demonstrate the effectiveness of an application development methodology that integrates NEC's accumulated satellite technology assets with generative AI.3. Demonstration of Next-Generation Millimeter-Wave Band Communication TechnologyIn anticipation of a future shift to higher frequency bands that will enable high-speed, large-capacity data transmission, NEC will demonstrate the operation of millimeter-wave Q/V-band transceiver equipment (*3). The equipment will also communicate with ground stations to acquire data on radio wave propagation characteristics.The bus, which constitutes the common functional component of this satellite, will consist of the compact Aries satellite bus, an existing product of U.S.-based Apex Technology (APEX, *4).Comments from each company regarding this matter are as follows."NEC is exactly the kind of partner we built Apex for — a world-class technology leader pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in orbit. By pairing NEC’s advanced optical communications with our configurable and productized satellite bus, we’re accelerating time to orbit and reducing risk. This mission is a strong example of how mass-manufactured spacecraft can enable next-generation constellations globally. We’re proud to support NEC’s on-orbit demonstration and to expand Apex’s footprint internationally as we help partners deploy resilient, high-performance space infrastructure at scale."Apex Technology CEO, Ian Cinnamon"NEC aims to create social value through safety, security, fairness, and efficiency, positioning space utilization as a means to solve challenges in achieving these goals. Since the 1990s, NEC has been developing technologies in the field of space optical communications to support this vision. We are very pleased to conduct this demonstration with the cooperation of APEX, a company based in the United States—where satellite manufacturing innovation is advancing—and a leader in the industry for its rapid provision of small satellite buses. The results of this demonstration will also be utilized in the research and development conducted under the Economic Security Critical Technology Development Program ‘Development and Demonstration of Satellite Constellation Core Technologies for Optical Communications, etc.’ (NEDO) and the Space Strategy Fund Project ‘Technology Development for Optical Communication Satellite Constellation Construction and System Demonstration’ (JAXA), both of which NEC is contracted to undertake. Going forward, NEC will continue advancing technological development with the goal of providing new space digital infrastructure."NEC Satellite Constellation Department General Manager, Yasushi Yokoyama(1) https://www.amd.com/en/products/adaptive-socs-and-fpgas/versal.html(2) https://www.amd.com/en.html(3) These results were obtained from the commissioned research project (No. JPJ012368C06702) "Research and Development of Wireless Communication Technologies Utilizing Unused Frequency Bands for Beyond 5G Space Networks," by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Japan. NEC subsequently acquired this technology through R&D investment.(4) https://www.apexspace.com/About NECThe NEC Group leverages technology to create social value and promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. NEC Corporation was established in 1899. Today, the NEC Group’s approximately 110,000 employees utilize world-leading AI, security, and communications technologies to solve the most pressing needs of customers and society.For more information, please visit https://www.nec.com, and follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Mar 19, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today that the administration of the anticancer agent EZH2 inhibitor “Tazverik® Tablets 200 mg” (generic name: tazemetostat hydrobromide), which is manufactured and marketed in Japan by Eisai should be discontinued. We plan to discontinue sales of this product once we have confirmed that it is no longer being administered to any patients.Following the announced voluntarily withdrawal of this product in the United States and other countries, Eisai has been collecting and reviewing safety data, including from the overseas clinical trials including SYMPHONY-1*1 and postmarketing data both domestic and from overseas. Based on the review of the available safety data, multiple cases of secondary hematologic malignancies have occurred on both combination and monotherapy treatment with tazemetostat.After a comprehensive evaluation of these findings, we concluded that it is necessary to give the fullest possible consideration to the risk of secondary hematologic malignancies occurring even under the approved conditions of use in Japan.Prioritizing patient safety, we are communicating with medical institutions in Japan where the drug is prescribed to consider discontinuing Tazverik immediately for patients currently receiving it, and to refrain from initiating any new administration.Eisai will continue to make every effort to provide timely and appropriate information to healthcare professionals to prevent any confusion or disruption for medical institutions or patients.The SYMPHONY‑1 study is a phase 1b/3 trial evaluating whether adding tazemetostat to rituximab plus lenalidomide (R2 therapy), the standard second ‑ line treatment, prolongs progression ‑ free survival (PFS) in patients with relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma who have received at least one prior chemotherapy regimen*2. The phase 1b portion is a single‑arm dose‑finding study. In the phase III trial, eligible patients will be randomized 1:1; the experimental group will receive R2 therapy plus tazemetostat for 12 months, followed by up to 2 years of tazemetostat monotherapy. The control group will receive a placebo instead of tazemetostat. The primary endpoint is PFS; secondary endpoints are objective response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS), duration of response (DOR), health-related quality of life (HR-QOL), and safety. This trial is being conducted under Ipsen's leadership as the confirmatory trial required for the accelerated approval of Tazverik for follicular lymphoma in the United States and China, and is being carried out at 229 sites in 15 countries, including the United States, the European Union, and China (no sites in Japan are participating).(1) Regarding the SYMPHONY-1 trial(2) The indication approved for Tazverik in Japan is monotherapy for "relapsed or refractory EZH2 mutation–positive follicular lymphoma (limited to cases where standard treatment is difficult)."About tazemetostat hydrobromide (generic name, product name “Tazverik Tablets 200 mg”)Tazemetostat is a first-in-class, oral small molecule inhibitor that targets EZH2 that was jointly researched and developed under the alliance agreement between Eisai and Epizyme, Inc., an Ipsen company, utilizing Epizyme, Inc.'s proprietary product platform. This agent selectively inhibits EZH2 in a competitive matter with S-adenosylmethionine (a methyl group donor) to suppress methylation of H3K27. Eisai was granted exclusive rights for development and commercialization of this agent in Japan.Media Inquiries:Public Relations Department,Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120 Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Mar 19, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE:6501, “Hitachi”) is pleased to announce that it has been recognized as one of the 2026 World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere, the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices. This award recognizes companies that demonstrate excellence in business ethics through an evaluation of over 240 proof points on practices that support robust ethics and compliance, governance, a culture of ethics, environmental and social impact, and initiatives that support a value chain.This year, only 138 companies were recognized, spanning 17 countries and 40 industries. This is the second consecutive time Hitachi has received this prestigious recognition, and it is one of only 3 companies headquartered in Japan to receive the award in 2026.Hitachi considers business ethics and compliance to be the foundation which supports global business. This achievement reflects our continuous efforts to strengthen ethical leadership, enhance the One Hitachi Compliance Program, and foster a corporate culture built on integrity. It underscores Hitachi’s long-term commitment to, and position as a global leader in promoting transparent, responsible, and ethical business practices worldwide.Toshiaki Tokunaga, President & CEO of Hitachi, Ltd. said:It is a great honor to be recognized for the second consecutive year. Under our management plan “Inspire 2027,” Hitachi aims to achieve sustainable growth through “True One Hitachi,” and contribute to the realization of a harmonized society. At the foundation of all this lies the founding spirit of “Makoto (Sincerity),” handed down since our founding. Even in times of rapid change, we will continue to conduct business the right way, maintain the trust of our stakeholders, and contribute to society by creating value that is unique to Hitachi.Erica Salmon Byrne, Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Chair of Ethisphere said:Congratulations to Hitachi for achieving recognition as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies®. As we mark the 20th class of honorees, this group continues to raise the bar for business integrity by embedding ethics into everyday decision-making and long-term strategy. Companies with strong ethics, compliance, and governance programs are built for better longterm performance.About World’s Most Ethical Companies®For more information on World’s Most Ethical Companies®, please visit the company's website at https://worldsmostethicalcompanies.com.To view the full list of this year’s honorees, please visit the World’s Most Ethical Companies® website, at https://worldsmostethicalcompanies.com/honorees.* “World’s Most Ethical Companies” and “Ethisphere” names and marks are registered trademarks of Ethisphere LLC.About Hitachi's Efforts on Business Ethics and ComplianceFor more information on Hitachi's Efforts on Business Ethics and Compliance, please refer to our Sustainability Report at https://www.hitachi.com/sustainability/report/governance/ethics.html.About Hitachi, Ltd.Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT(Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Mar 17, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The 30th Hong Kong International Film and TV Market (FILMART) and EntertainmentPulse, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), is taking place from March 17 to 20 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The four-day event gathers global film and entertainment industry leaders to showcase new productions and cutting-edge technologies, while fostering discussions on international market trends and opportunities.The Entertainment Expo Hong Kong, encompassing eight major entertainment events including FILMART and EntertainmentPulse, held its kick-off ceremony this afternoon at the FILMART venue. The ceremony was officiated by Chan Kwok Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of HKSAR, Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of HKSAR, Professor Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, Dr Peter Lam, Chairman, HKTDC Entertainment Industry Advisory Committee, Dr Wilfred Wong, Chairman, Hong Kong International Film Festival Society, Qin Zhengui, Deputy Director General of Film Bureau and Managing Director of Screenplay Planning Center of the Publicity Department of Central Committee of Communist Party of China, Yang Yong, Deputy Director-General, Department of International Cooperation (Office of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs), National Radio and Television Administration, and representatives from the Expo’s event organisers.The Expo is co-organised by the HKTDC and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), the Film Development Fund, and the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau. This year's opening ceremony celebrates both the 30th edition of FILMART and the 50th milestone of the Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF), reaffirming their role in driving continuous growth for the city's entertainment industry.At the kick-off ceremony of the Hong Kong Entertainment Expo cum 30th FILMART and 50th HKIFF Celebration, Professor Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, stated: “The HKTDC celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and FILMART has been around for half of the HKTDC’s existence, making 2026 a special year for us. Over the years, FILMART has grown to become the world-recognised leading entertainment content marketplace of Asia, as well as a must-join event for the global entertainment industry. For the 30th edition, FILMART is more international than ever, presenting productions of over 790 exhibitors across a record high participation of 38 countries and regions, connecting them with 7,700 business visitors from about 50 countries and regions.”Rising international participation with exhibitors driving cross-regional film and entertainment exchangeThis year’s FILMART has attracted a record number of participating countries and regions. Exhibitors from emerging markets such as Belgium, Myanmar, Poland, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan are joining for the first time. Other participating countries and regions include the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam, bringing broader international representation and further enhancing the event’s global reach. The Mainland contingent has expanded significantly, with a number of new provinces and municipalities participating, including Chongqing, Fujian, Guizhou, Shandong and Sichuan. Various leading mainland film and entertainment companies, including Tencent Video, Bilibili, iQIYI and Youku, are exhibiting at FILMART, leveraging the platform to expand their presence in overseas markets.Major Hong Kong film and entertainment companies are also participating this year. Sil-Metropole Organisation and Mei Ah Entertainment will showcase their latest productions created using virtual reality and AI, highlighting the distinctive appeal of Hong Kong’s culture. Other local exhibitors include Media Asia, Edko Films, Golden Scene, Entertaining Power, Muse Communication, RTHK, Television Broadcasts Limited, MakerVille, i-Cable Communications, and more, will unveil upcoming projects and productions, offering new partnership and investment opportunities for industry players worldwide.A total of 40 events will take place during FILMART. Highlights include the “Forum on International Communication Cooperation and Innovation for a New Vision”, organised by the International Cooperation Department of National Radio and Television Administration of China, and the “International Short Drama Association 2026 Asian Forum”. Major mainland production companies, such as Youhug Media and Linmon Picture Media, will also hold content showcases and launch events during the market. On the business front, multiple cooperation agreements will be signed at FILMART; the Sichuan Pavilion will host a project signing ceremony covering areas such as copyright trading and strategic collaboration. International participants are also actively engaging with the global industry. Thailand’s Ministry of Culture will present the country’s latest film and television projects, while activities organised by ICEX Spain Trade & Investment will explore creative collaboration and co-production opportunities between the Asian and European markets.Producers Connect draws broad international participation to foster cross-border co-productionProducers Connect, jointly organised by the HKSAR’s Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the Hong Kong Film Development Council and the HKTDC, returns this year. Partnering with 10 international film institutions, including those from Chinese Mainland, Indonesia, Italy, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Slovenia, Spain, the United Kingdom and Vietnam, the programme brings together more than 100 producers from Hong Kong and across the globe. Through a series of small group business matching sessions, Producers Connect designed to foster cross-cultural exchange and unlock new collaboration opportunities.To further discuss emerging co-production trends, a dedicated forum themed “International Coproductions in an Evolving Film Industry Landscape” will be held tomorrow afternoon. The session will feature a distinguished line-up of speakers sharing forward-looking perspectives, including Peter Chan, renowned Hong Kong director, Janet Yang, Golden Globe-winning producer, and Singaporean Cannes-winning director Anthony Chen, alongside other industry professionals with extensive international co-production experience. Together they will share the latest developments in co-production from multiple perspectives and explore how Hong Kong and Asia’s film industries can broaden their global development horizon.In addition, the fireside chats series will focus on business opportunities across key markets, including Asia, ASEAN and Europe, as well as the market strategies and commercial value associated with intellectual property expansion and the remaking of classic IP. A series of workshops will also be organised to enable industry professionals to better grasp emerging technologies and evolving market models while enhancing flexibility and possibilities for cross-regional collaboration.AI Hub returns with upgraded scale to support mainland enterprises going globalThe AI Hub, first introduced at last year’s FILMART to wide acclaim, returns this year with an expanded presence. Organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong Association of Motion Picture Post Production Professionals, the AI Hub brings together leading mainland AI and technology companies, including Alibaba Cloud, Kling AI, MiniMax, Vidu, Nanjing Xuanjia Network Technology Co., Ltd., Daogu Culture Limited, and more. These exhibitors will present their latest applications and technological breakthroughs in areas such as AI generated content (AIGC), AI-generated short dramas and AI animation. Beyond showcasing cutting-edge technologies, the upgraded AI Hub also focuses on fostering commercial collaboration, supporting mainland technology enterprises as they go global and expand into new markets. Academic institutions, including The University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and Lingnan University, are also actively participating, contributing to the advancement of innovation in local film and entertainment production.To further strengthen industry capabilities in AI adoption, this year’s edition also introduces the AI Academy, newly established with support from the CCIDA and the Film Development Fund. Through 18 thematic workshops, industry experts will explain practical applications and emerging trends of AI technologies across the filmmaking process, helping practitioners navigate transformation and upgrading across multiple stages—from creative development and filming to post-production and content promotion.A dedicated panel session will be held tomorrow under the theme “Human-in-the-Loop: Balancing Cinematic Craft and Generative AI”. The panel will feature leading voices from the AI technology sector, including Yuhang Cheng, COO of the Midjourney China Club; Yunan Zhang, Vice President of MiniMax; and Fu Binxing, CEO of China Huace Film & TV Co., Ltd. Together they will explore the Human-in-the-Loop model of content creation, examining how filmmakers can effectively harness AI to enhance content quality while retaining creative leadership.EntertainmentPulse explores film financing and global opportunities for short dramasHeld alongside FILMART, the fifth edition of EntertainmentPulse examines some of the most pressing issues in today’s film and entertainment market, including the global expansion of short dramas, opportunities and future directions for international co-productions, emerging models of collaboration between AI and film production, and the creation and expansion of global animation IP. Through these discussions, the forum provides the industry with in-depth and forward-looking market insights.This year’s EntertainmentPulse also includes a dedicated session on film financing and investment. Industry leaders such as Justin Deimen, Managing Partner of Goldfinch International; Bennett Pozil, Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Banking at East West Bank; and Catherine Ying, President of CMC Pictures and Pearl Studio, will share insights on financing trends and strategies in the Asian film industry, examining how film projects and co-productions can enter new markets while unlocking the commercial value derived from film and television IP. As the micro-short dramas boom continues to gain global momentum, the forum also features a dedicated seminar on this fast-growing format. Speakers include Wang Xiangbin, Founder and CEO of DataEye, a Mainland Chinese big-data company specialising in content marketing analytics, and Xiaoqian Chen, Vice President of Mansen (Shenzhen) Culture Media Co., Ltd, a major short dramas platform. They will examine the latest trends in the international expansion of Chinese mainland’s short dramas and explore emerging opportunities in overseas markets. Another highlight is a panel discussion featuring the production teams behind the Hong Kong Film Awards-nominated film Ciao UFO — including Amy Chin, Patrick Leung and Kong Ho Yan — alongside the team behind Unidentified Murder, represented by Kwok Ka Hei, Fung Wai Sze and Lee Chun Kit. Moderated by veteran Hong Kong film critic Thomas Shin, the discussion will explore how Hong Kong filmmakers preserve local cultural characteristics while responding flexibly to evolving market dynamics, opening up new possibilities for the development of the city’s film industry.HKIFF Industry Project Market provides platform for industry exchangeThe 24th Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF), the core section of the HKIFF Industry Project Market, runs for three consecutive days from today (17–19 March 2026) within the FILMART venue. This year’s selection features 42 film projects from 22 countries and regions, representing a wide range of development stages. Among them, 13 are animation or genre projects spanning themes such as family-driven narratives, comedy, thriller, fantasy, action and science fiction, showcasing the diversity and creative vitality of Asian storytelling. All shortlisted projects will be presented alongside FILMART during the HKIFF Industry Project Market, providing opportunities for project teams to exchange ideas with industry professionals, present their latest development progress and creative direction, and foster collaboration across Asia and the wider international film community.FILMART and EntertainmentPulseDate: 17 – 20 March 2026Website:FILMART— http://www.hktdc.com/hkfilmartEntertainementPulse — https://hkfilmart.hktdc.com/conference/hkfilmart/en/programmeEntertainment ExpoDate: 15 March – 19 April 2026Spectacular events: Three founding projects - Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART), Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF), Hong Kong Film Awards (HKFA); and five core events: Asian Film Awards (AFA), Digital Entertainment Summit (DES), EntertainmentPulse (EP), Hong Kong - Asia Fim Financing Forum (HAF), Microfilm Production Support Scheme (Music)Photo Download: https://bit.ly/4sPaX8qThe 30th Hong Kong International Film and TV Market exhibition (FILMART) opens today, attracting over 790 exhibitors from 38 countries and regionsThe Entertainment Expo kick-off ceremony (17 Mar) officiating guests include: Chan Kwok Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration, HKSAR (front row; center), Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of HKSAR (front row; fifth from left), Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman, HKTDC (front row; sixth from right), Dr Peter Lam, Chairman, HKTDC Entertainment Industry Advisory Committee (front row; sixth from left), Dr Wilfred Wong, Chairman, Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (front row; fifth from right), Qin Zhengui, Deputy Director General of Film Bureau and Managing Director of Screenplay Planning Center of the Publicity Department of Central Committee of Communist Party of China (front row; fourth from left), Yang Yong, Deputy Director-General, Department of International Cooperation (Office of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs), National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) (front row; fourth from right), and representatives from the Expo’s event organisersChan Kwok Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR, delivers an opening speech at the Entertainment Expo kick-off ceremony cum 30th FILMART and 50th HKIFF CelebrationProf Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, delivers welcome remarks during the Entertainment Expo kick-off ceremony cum 30th FILMART and 50th HKIFF Celebration The AI Hub, first introduced at FILMART last year to strong acclaim, returns this year on a larger scale. It brings together several leading AI and technology companies from Chinese Mainland, supporting their go global expansion and helping them explore new business opportunities overseas FILMART also brings back the Producers Connect, providing a networking platform for local and international producers to connect and fostering more cross-regional co-production opportunitiesMedia Enquiries:For enquiries, please contact:Raconteur PR AgencyBetsy TseTel: (852) 9742 7338Email: betsytse@raconteur.hkMolisa LauTel: (852) 6187 7786Email: molisalau@raconteur.hkHKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department:Serena Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4272 Email: serena.hm.cheung@hktdc.org HKTDC Mediaroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/tcAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com