Industries.
Mi Technovation subsidiary buys Singapore industrial hub for S$103.88mn
The Malaysian firm's wholly-owned subsidiary, Ohima International, is establishing a global operational hub for its vehicle technologies unit in the seven-storey building.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang defends Singapore firm ties amid US chip export probe
Jensen Huang stated Nvidia's dealings with Singapore's Megaspeed International were "normal" after reports of a former executive's alleged role in evading US export rules to China.
Philippine carriers press for airport fee waiver
The Air Carriers Association of the Philippines cites a record-weak peso and doubled jet fuel prices, noting passenger service charges at Ninoy Aquino International Airport have nearly doubled since 2025.
South Korea's top court affirms W18.6 billion fine on Broadcom
The US chipmaker was penalised for coercing Samsung Electronics into a long-term component supply deal, with the ruling finalised on October 27.
South Korea's APR doubles Q3 revenue on overseas sales surge
South Korean beauty firm APR reported record quarterly revenue of 773.1 billion won, with overseas sales jumping 135% to account for 94% of the total.
Mapletree Pan Asia Commercial Trust grapples with China property issues
Singapore-listed Mapletree Pan Asia Commercial Trust (MPACT) reported a 3.5% decline in Q2 distribution per unit, as its CEO described China assets as "our biggest pain."
Vingroup hits first $1.1bn quarterly profit on property sales
The Vietnamese conglomerate's revenue nearly quadrupled in the third quarter, driven by strong real estate performance and significant capital raising.
India Targets Global Manufacturing Hub Status Beyond China+1
India aims to become a trusted global manufacturing partner, with engineering exports reaching US$122.43 billion in FY2025–26, a 4.86% increase from the prior fiscal year.
Taiwan builds AI backbone with dense manufacturing base
The island's industrial ecosystem supplies advanced logic, packaging, and server assembly critical for artificial intelligence development.
HD Hyundai Robotics cuts robot problem time 63% with Palantir AI
The South Korean manufacturer reduced average problem-solving from 21.5 days to 7.9 days since August, also expecting programming costs to fall over 50%.
Korean Chipmakers Prioritise Domestic Investment Over Europe Fabs
South Korean chip giants Samsung and SK Hynix are directing €510 billion into domestic expansion, with high European production costs and uncertain funding deterring major factory builds there.
ASEAN targets medicine self-reliance, Malaysia proposes dashboard
The regional bloc aims to reduce reliance on imported medicines and external shocks, with Malaysia advocating for a real-time security dashboard and a three-month buffer stock model.
PAGCOR's nine-month revenue drops 23.4%, net income almost 85%
The Philippine gaming regulator reported total revenues of P64.41 billion for January to September, down from P84.09 billion a year earlier, with online gaming experiencing the steepest fall.
Cambricon Co-founder Urges Universal AI Ethics Amid Cyber Risks
Chen Yunji, from Chinese chip giant Cambricon Technologies, called for a global “ethics checker” for leading AI models after systems caused high-profile cyberattacks and critical infrastructure threats.
Siemens CEO Outlines Industrial AI Adoption Path for Asia's SMEs
Roland Busch, Siemens' chief executive, late last week in Seoul detailed a step-by-step strategy to integrate artificial intelligence into smaller manufacturing operations, emphasising industrial data and gradual investment.
Thai Government Approves B6.7bn Fuel Subsidy, Orders Refining Margin Cuts
Thailand's Finance Ministry greenlit an initial 6.7 billion baht from the Energy Conservation Fund, while new measures will reduce gross refining margins to ease consumer burden.
Pham Nhat Vuong invests $436 million in VinFast Auto subsidiary
Southeast Asia's wealthiest individual, Pham Nhat Vuong, has increased his total investment in the electric vehicle maker to approximately VND51.5 trillion. The capital was deployed via dividend preference shares.
BlackRock's HPS invests S$555m in TBS waste platform
The multi-tranche commitment will fund Jakarta-based TBS Energi Utama's expansion and acquisitions across Singapore, Indonesia, and other Asian markets.
HCMC draws US$16.4 billion for urban, port projects
Ho Chi Minh City has approved 12 major investment projects totalling US$16.4 billion, targeting urban development, seaports, logistics, and high-tech manufacturing.
HDPI reports P7.07bn loss, auditor flags viability
Hard Discount Philippines Inc., operator of DALI stores, recorded P7.07 billion in losses by 2025, a 35 percent rise from the previous year. Its auditor raised significant doubts about the Philippine retailer's ability to continue operations.
HKTDC to open DesignInspire 2026 for global design collaboration
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council event, running 18-21 November, will feature international design studios and brands, including a debut collaboration with Salone del Mobile.Milano.
Philippines opens NLEX C5 Northlink, free passage until 2026
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the new section, connecting Quezon City and Valenzuela City, will waive tolls for motorists through 31 December 2026.
Apple iPhone Duo faces early screen cracking complaints
Customers report screens on Apple's new foldable iPhone Duo cracking within days of use, prompting the company to offer replacements for affected units.
Keppel joins Vietnam financial centre, targets $1 billion real estate funds
Singapore's Keppel Ltd. has become an inaugural member of the Vietnam International Financial Centre (VIFC), planning to attract up to US$1 billion for property developments in the country.
Rystad Energy: LNG Importers Face $39 Billion Cost Hike for Less Volume in 2026
Middle East disruptions will push global LNG portfolio costs to $256 billion, forcing buyers to secure 60.7 million tonnes less supply at higher prices, Rystad Energy forecasts.
Toyota Recalls 228,367 US Sienna Hybrids
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the recall over concerns that seat backs could disengage during frontal collisions, increasing injury risk.
China Permits Xpeng, VW Joint Venture for Robotaxi Operations
Xpeng's Yoyo driverless taxis can now carry paying passengers in Guangdong province, advancing China's autonomous driving sector.
Hong Kong Home Prices Decline 0.8% in Q3, Rents Climb
Hong Kong's lived-in residential property prices fell for the first time in over a year during the third quarter of 2026, even as September saw a second consecutive monthly increase.
OUE REIT acquires half-stake in Sydney Salesforce Tower for $864 million
Singapore’s OUE Real Estate Investment Trust purchased the interest from Chinese insurer Ping An, in a transaction confirmed over the weekend.
LG Earnings Bolstered by Appliances, Vehicle Components
The South Korean electronics giant reported an improved profit from a year earlier for its latest quarter, driven by appliances and vehicle components, even as overall earnings declined sequentially. Management anticipates continued challenging consumer spending.
Colliers markets S$85.2m Hillview Terrace industrial portfolios
Colliers is offering two distinct industrial property portfolios in Singapore's Hillview Terrace, valued at a combined S$85.23 million across approximately 50,980 sq ft of land.
Manila Pushes Housing Amid 79,200 Unsold Condos
Pag-IBIG Fund disbursed P69.19 billion for housing in H1 2026, while Colliers noted 79,200 unsold Metro Manila condos by end-2025.
Asia E-Commerce Growth Diverges: China Hits ¥13 Trillion
China's online retail sales of physical goods reached ¥13.09 trillion in 2025, while Southeast Asia and India each expanded by 20 percent, showcasing varied regional trends.
Singapore HDB Finalises 11,000 Homes for Maju Forest, Gillman Barracks
Singapore's Housing & Development Board (HDB) will deliver 9,500 public and 1,500 private units, with development works beginning from late 2027 and more green space retained.
China approves DeepSeek, MiniMax for global AI deployment
The move, announced by China Central Television, reveals Beijing's intent to support international commercialisation for its artificial intelligence sector, despite potential export controls.
Singapore commits S$150m to AI materials research, corporate AI
Singapore's government announced a significant investment in a new AI-driven materials research platform and launched initiatives to embed artificial intelligence across its corporate sector.
Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong firms lead 2026 Enterprise Awards
The annual awards, organised by The Business Times and OCBC, recognised nine companies for innovation and sustainable solutions, with nearly 40 per cent of 600 applications from outside Singapore.
AirTrunk Secures A$4.25bn Green Loan for Sydney Data Centre
The Blackstone-backed hyperscaler obtained financing from 32 institutions to expand its SYD3 campus in Western Sydney, targeting completion by mid-2028.
Singapore Central Office Rents Up 0.8% Q3 2026, Vacancy at 10%
The Urban Redevelopment Authority reported central region office rents increased 0.8% in Q3 2026, while the islandwide vacancy rate dropped to 10%.
HSBC: 65% of Singapore Entrepreneurs Adopt AI, Outpace Peers
High-net-worth entrepreneurs in Singapore are more proactive in adapting operations for artificial intelligence than global counterparts, with 61% planning significant investments in AI over the next year.
HSBC Aids Chinese Firms' Expansion into Malaysia, ASEAN
Malaysia's 2025 GDP grew 5.2%, with bilateral trade volumes with China rising 33% in the first seven months of 2026, drawing Chinese companies like Mixue and COSMX.
Daewoo E&C integrates AI for construction safety, efficiency
The Korean builder is deploying real-time translation, automated safety monitoring, and digital management systems to cut workplace risks and streamline operations.
Thailand NBTC leadership dispute threatens telecom conference, flood aid
Legal uncertainty at Thailand's National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) could delay the country's ITU conference participation and crucial flood relief for mobile subscribers.
Korean Retailers Use AI Shoppers to Refine Products, Cut Costs
Major South Korean retailers and consumer goods firms are deploying artificial intelligence-generated consumers to test products and marketing, aiming to predict buying behaviour and reduce development expenses.
DFI Retail's 7-Eleven Introduces Foodbar Across Singapore Stores
The convenience chain, operated by DFI Retail Group, launched the hot food concept on 16 October 2026 across 16 locations to boost higher-margin ready-to-eat sales.
Climate Change Threatens East Asia Coasts with Mine Waste Pollution
A new analysis identifies East Asia among six global hotspots where rising temperatures and altered weather patterns could worsen contamination from metal mining facilities, impacting 293,000 kilometres of coastline.
HD Hyundai, Kiewit to build US shipyard, create 3,000 jobs
The joint venture will begin construction in 2027, with operations slated for 2029, supported by a significant South Korean investment pledge.
BYD to build European EV plants countering trade barriers
China's largest electric vehicle maker aims for greater market share in Europe, responding to tariffs and quotas on Chinese imports and reduced domestic fiscal support.
Ambiq Micro adds SGX listing, expands Singapore R&D
The US-listed edge AI chip designer seeks to offer Asian investors direct access while committing to a multi-year research and development programme in Singapore.
VSMC Opens Singapore 300mm Fab, Targeting 44,000 Monthly Wafers
The joint venture between Vanguard International Semiconductor and NXP Semiconductors will create 1,600 jobs by 2029, with volume production starting in Q1 2027.
HK Developers Shift to China Commercial Amid Weak Home Sales
Hong Kong's major property firms are redirecting mainland China investments from residential units to commercial assets like hotels, citing weak home sales and limited new opportunities.
Indonesia, Philippines Coal Reliance Hinders Geothermal Investment
Existing coal power plants in Southeast Asia weaken the business case for new clean energy projects, despite a US$170 million derisking facility in the Philippines for geothermal exploration.
Hyundai Transys to invest $560m in Georgia powertrain output
The South Korean automotive parts maker will upgrade existing facilities and construct a new plant in West Point, creating 320 jobs for hybrid vehicle component manufacturing.
Asia, Europe Boost Coal Imports as LNG Price Gap Widens
Australian thermal coal trades at an 80% discount to liquefied natural gas (LNG), driving Asian and European buyers to increase purchases for November delivery.
Philippines DTI: Vingroup considers $500m EV factory for 2027 start
Vietnam's Vingroup, controlled by Pham Nhat Vuong, may invest US$500 million in an electric vehicle plant in the Philippines, targeting 200,000 units annually with construction potentially starting in early 2027.
EU, Philippines Launch AI Lab for MSME AI Tool Vetting
The new facility in Manila will allow micro, small and medium enterprises to evaluate artificial intelligence tools before committing capital, reducing adoption risk.
Vietnam FDI Hits Record $50.36 Billion in Nine Months
Registered foreign direct investment in Vietnam surged 76.4% year-on-year, with disbursed capital reaching a five-year high of $21.07 billion.
Philippine Coconut Exports Target West Africa After Liberia Shipment
The Philippines Department of Agriculture is expanding coconut exports to West Africa, following a 50-metric-ton shipment to Liberia by Avante Agri-Products valued at $22,400.
Singapore hosts seven WEF Lighthouse factories, boosting regional manufacturing
The Singapore Economic Development Board notes these facilities, including those from Agilent and GlobalFoundries, employ advanced technologies to significantly raise productivity and cut lead times.
Mi Material targets US, Malaysia expansion with S$215m SGX IPO
The Singapore-based semiconductor materials firm will list on October 28, earmarking S$168.2 million of its raised capital for R&D and facility upgrades.
Krungsri forecasts 3% Thai credit card growth, Japan travel leads
Krungsri Consumer expects spending via its credit cards to rise 2-3% in 2026, driven by persistent demand for overseas trips, particularly to Japan, despite broader uncertainties.
China Cosco adds capacity, routes for supply chain resilience
The country's largest ocean carrier, China Cosco Shipping Holdings, is implementing an emergency response system to counter geopolitical and climate disruptions.
Keppel Reit buys 51% of Keppel South Central for S$610.9 million
The acquisition from sponsor Keppel includes a guaranteed S$2.23 million monthly income for up to five years, enhancing the Reit's Singapore office market presence.
Hyundai, Doosan unveil automation tech at FIX 2026 in Daegu
South Korean firms Hyundai Motor, HD Hyundai Robotics, and Doosan Robotics presented industrial robots and autonomous systems, targeting efficiency gains in manufacturing and logistics.
Keppel REIT's S$610.9 Million Singapore Property Deal Splits Analysts
Keppel REIT's proposed S$610.9 million acquisition of a 51 per cent stake in the newly completed Keppel South Central in Tanjong Pagar has drawn mixed reactions from research houses.
Central Pattana Expands Phuket Luxury Zone, Targets Q2 2027 Opening
Central Pattana Plc (CPN) is adding 14 rai to its Central Phuket development, doubling the luxury retail area with a 26 billion baht investment, with the first phase opening in Q2 2027.
Indonesia's courts open new path for haze victims to sue companies
A 2023 Indonesian Supreme Court regulation on 'pollution share liability' may ease claims against companies for transboundary haze, offering a new avenue for compensation.
Keppel Reit acquires 51% stake in Singapore CBD office for S$626.2 million
The deal boosts the Reit's Singapore office presence to 82% and forecasts a 2.01% distribution per unit uplift, with completion expected by Q2 2027.
Indonesia signals gas export curbs amid haze tensions
Coordinating Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated on 22 October that Jakarta could halt supplies to countries not showing “respect,” citing domestic needs and a shift from earlier assurances on quotas.
Micron to boost Taiwan staff pay with profit-sharing after labour dispute
The semiconductor firm will introduce quarterly profit-sharing bonuses and enhanced benefits for its employees in Taiwan, following recent negotiations with local unions.
NEC, Alcatel Vie for MViSTA Cable Contract in Southeast Asia
The $400 million MViSTA undersea cable, linking Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore, expects to enter service in late 2028.
Thailand's SRT Sues CP Group Consortium for B13.3 Billion Rail Debt
The State Railway of Thailand initiated legal action over a stalled 224-billion-baht high-speed link meant to connect three airports in the Eastern Economic Corridor.
Singapore Industrial Rents Rise on AI Demand, JTC Reports
JTC reported Singapore's industrial property rents increased 0.5% quarter-on-quarter in Q3 2026, with prices climbing 1%, as demand from artificial intelligence sectors bolstered the market.
Trump to Press Tariffs, Critical Minerals at November ASEAN Summit
US President Donald Trump will attend the Manila summit from November 16–18, seeking concessions on trade and critical resources from Southeast Asian nations.
Singapore, ASEAN Economies Draw US$236 Billion FDI from Global Shift
The Singapore Economic Development Board reported a rise in foreign direct investment to the region in 2023, with firms diversifying operations from China into key Southeast Asian markets.
Antique Stock Broking sets ₹3,050 target for Neogen Chemicals
The Indian brokerage initiated coverage with a 'Buy' rating, projecting a 23% upside for the specialty chemicals firm, citing its expanding battery chemicals division and non-Chinese supply chain opportunities.
Phinma unit opens P700 million insulated panel plant
Union Insulated Panel Corp. launched a P700 million facility in Pampanga, Philippines, aiming to expand local production and reduce reliance on imports.
Keppel Reit Buys S$610.9 Million Stake in Singapore Office
Keppel Reit secured a 51 per cent interest in Keppel South Central from its sponsor, Keppel, on Tuesday, enhancing its presence in Singapore's prime office sector.
LHN launches eldercare pilot with five Singapore units
Mainboard-listed LHN Group has introduced Jubiliv, a new eldercare offering under its facilities management division, starting with five units at 31 Boon Lay Drive.
New World, China Merchants Eye 2028 Hong Kong Presales
The joint venture targets a market recovery for its Pak Shing Kok residential project, as New World Development issues US$189.3 million in new bonds.
Singapore Eases En Bloc Consent for Older Properties, Eyes ABSD Relief
Parliament approved lower consent thresholds for collective sales of developments aged 40 years and older, aiming to accelerate urban renewal. Owners may need Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty concessions for replacement homes.
Cube Asia: SE Asia E-commerce Shifts to Existing Shoppers, Credit
Cube Asia forecasts regional online spending on physical goods to hit US$400 billion by 2031, driven by faster delivery and easier financing.
NephroPlus Philippines Hits 50 Clinics, Aids Mangyan Community
The dialysis network partnered with Baco local government for a medical mission reaching 265 members of the Mangyan Indigenous Community in Oriental Mindoro.
JTI Philippines Appoints Alan Jackson to Lead Growth
JTI Philippines has named Alan Jackson as its new General Manager, tasking him with brand portfolio expansion and intensified efforts against illicit tobacco trade.
China Q3 GDP lifts AI hardware exporters; Shengyi, Foxconn in focus
China's 4.5% Q3 economic expansion boosts export demand for industrial equipment and AI hardware, highlighting key manufacturers like ASMPT and Foxconn Industrial Internet.
Vietnam FDI registered capital hits record $50.36 billion
Disbursed foreign direct investment also reached a five-year high of $21.07 billion in the first nine months of 2026, with full-year registered capital projected to exceed $60 billion.
Vietnam semiconductor exports surge, boosting logistics demand
A FedEx and Frost & Sullivan report reveals Vietnam's semiconductor exports grew 31.8% annually from 2006–2025, reaching US$32.4 billion in 2023, driven by AI and EV demand.
EQT acquires Cleanaway Waste Management for A$9.3 billion
Global private equity firm EQT will purchase all shares in the ASX-listed waste management company, offering A$3.095 cash per share for the Australian firm.
Thailand's $4.4bn Luxury Market Shifts to Trendsetter Role
The country's luxury retail sector, valued at US$4.4 billion, is projected to expand by around 5% annually through 2028, with Bangkok emerging as a global trendsetter.
Singapore Office Rents Climb 2% in Q3 as AI Demand Tightens Vacancy
Core Central Business District Grade A vacancy fell to 2.6% in the third quarter, with full-year rental growth forecast to exceed 5%.
Keppel REIT acquires 51% of Keppel South Central for $626.2m
The acquisition from sponsor Keppel Limited includes a five-year income support arrangement, contributing to an initial property yield of 4.3%.
Daniel Wu launches Arox furniture, expands China business interests
The US-born Hong Kong actor and filmmaker, 52, has diversified his ventures in China, including an English language course and a coffee brand.
Vietnam Ready-Built Factories Surge on Electronics FDI
Foreign direct investment in Vietnam’s electronics and semiconductor sectors reached over $7 billion in the first half of 2026, driving strong demand for ready-built industrial facilities, particularly in the north.
Southeast Asia E-commerce Captures 25% Retail Share, Targets $400 Billion
Online retail in the region now accounts for a quarter of all consumer spending, with major platforms growing at 33% year-on-year in Q1 2026.
Musinsa, Zozotown Bring Japanese Brands to Seoul Pop-up
South Korean fashion retailer Musinsa is hosting 15 Japanese brands in Seoul through a pop-up with e-commerce platform Zozotown, marking a shift in their partnership to include inbound sales.
SGX RegCo warns Bumitama, First Resources on haze disclosure
Singapore Exchange Regulation is seeking information from firms like Bumitama Agri and First Resources on their activities' contribution to the ongoing haze, threatening action for disclosure failures.
ASEAN Energy Transition Roadmap Targets £520bn Annual Investment
Southeast Asia's new roadmap, developed with ACE and SEforALL, forecasts 8.6 million new jobs by 2050 as the region shifts from fossil fuels towards carbon neutrality.
Tokyo rule, higher rates cool Japan property foreign investor interest
Tokyo's new requirement for all property buyers to declare nationality, combined with rising interest rates, could slow investment flows after a strong run.
Sabeco, Vietnam Fatherland Front launch 2026 community award
The Ambassador of National Progress Award, managed by Saigon Beer-Alcohol-Beverage Corporation and the Vietnam Fatherland Front, will honour 15 individuals for their community contributions.
Geopolitics Reshapes Trade, Supply Chains, Boosting ASEAN FDI
Experts at an IMF-World Bank seminar noted growing efforts to mitigate transit vulnerabilities and geopolitical shocks, particularly impacting Southeast Asia's industrial production and foreign direct investment.