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

TOKYO, Mar 18, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. (MHI) has recognized 23 initiatives that achieved outstanding results by conferring the President's Award, including exemplary cases demonstrating the implementation of its new management policy, Innovative Total Optimization (ITO).MHI Group announced its new management policy, ITO, effective May 2025. ITO constitutes a management methodology designed to maximize the potential inherent within the Group and achieve sustainable growth by pursuing group-wide optimization and scope expansion. By implementing ITO, the Group aims to create a virtuous cycle of transformation toward a high-profit structure and the reallocation of resources toward growth investments.This year's President's Award recognized outstanding achievements across all areas of the Group, including exemplary initiatives stemming from putting ITO into practice, developing and implementing products and services contributing to solving social issues, and initiatives related to enhancing productivity and innovating business processes. Of these, 15 projects are highlighted below.By conferring this President's Award, MHI aims to enhance allemployee's motivation to create new value based on its management policy. The Group is committed to achieving its mission in terms of "combining foundational technologies with cutting-edge knowledge to respond to changing societal and customer needs" while continuously striving to enhance corporate value. World's First Demonstration of 50% Hydrogen Co-Firing Operation Conducted at a Large-Scale GTCC Plant[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) Energy Systems]Plant McDonough-Atkinson(Photo courtesy of Georgia Power)At Georgia Power's Plant McDonough-Atkinson in the U.S., 50% hydrogen co-firing was successfully demonstrated at the large-scale M501GAC gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) power plant (gas turbine output: 283MW). This represents the world's first achievement in a commercial unit of this output class. In 2024, MHI Group was awarded a contract to conduct modification design and full-scale validation for converting an existing natural gas-fired gas turbine to hydrogen co-firing. The project included replacement of the combustors and installation of a hydrogen supply system. Working together with Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc., a U.S.-based group company of MHI, it successfully completed demonstration testing in June 2025. By leveraging not only combustion technology but also comprehensive technical capabilities—including hydrogen supply systems, operations, and control systems—MHI Group achieved the world's largest hydrogen co-firing for utility-scale power generation, thereby contributing to the advancement of practical solutions for decarbonization. Successful Completion of Retrofitting for Other OEM Boilers Driving Expansion in After-Sales Services[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Energy Domain]On-site Construction CrewMHI successfully completed a turnkey project for retrofitting other OEM boilers in Indonesia. Leveraging its extensive expertise as a boiler manufacturer, MHI developed an optimal retrofit plan for this project, achieving results that significantly exceeded the guaranteed performance. Additionally for the subsequent unit, MHI completed the project ahead of schedule. This outcome was achieved through detailed on-site surveys, measurements, and proprietary analysis, all of which earned high praise from the client. Building on these results, there is strong potential for expanding similar service projects. 3D Design Service Capable of Shortening Design Lead Times and Cutting Costs for Plant Retrofitting Projects[MHI Power Engineering Co., Ltd.]AR-View of Post-Retrofitting Data superimposed onto actual sitefor Interference CheckingMHI Power Engineering developed a solution for plant retrofitting projects that shortens spatial design lead times and cuts costs by up to approximately 30%. When designing spaces for older plants lacking blueprints, 3D drawings were traditionally created using laser scanning, but this posed challenges such as lengthy data processing times and the need to dispatch specialized measurement technicians. Therefore, MHI Power Engineering developed a method to create 3D data from videos shot with inexpensive commercial cameras, and techniques to display 3D-CAD models on-site using AR (i.e. Augmented Reality technology that superimposes digital information, such as images and audio, onto the physical world to enhance reality). This contributes to shortening lead times and reducing costs, as well as improving quality in spatial design. In addition to thermal power plants, it is increasingly being adopted for spatial design in nuclear power facilities, steelmaking machinery, and naval vessels. MaiDAS®: Integrated Plant Operations System for Automated Operation and Operational Efficiency Improvement in Waste-to-Energy Plant[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Environmental & Chemical Engineering co., Ltd. (MHIEC) Engineering Division]MHIEC Remote Operations CenterMHIEC has developed the integrated plant operation system MaiDAS®, which integrates AI/IoT technology with cloud virtualization and advanced security to enable remote monitoring and operational support, including automated operation, for waste-to-energy plants. With successful operation at 20 locations worldwide, this system enables automated operation of waste incinerators where control is challenging due to the variable characteristics of the waste as fuel. The system also integrates functions that contribute to reducing maintenance and administration cost, including the flexibility to enable remote monitoring from a desk PC while maintaining a high level of security, as well as optimal maintenance recommendations based on continuously collected operational data. Furthermore, MHIEC has obtained ISO 27001 (Information Security Management System certification) and ISO 27017 (ISMS Cloud Security certification), a first in the waste-to-energy plant industry. The Company also aims to work in tandem with the "MHIEC Remote Operations Center," established in December 2025, to further enhance the efficiency of plant operations. Central Operation Cockpit (COC): Enabling Stable Plant Operation and Reduced Workload in Modern Steel Plants[Electrics & Automation and Technology & Innovation, Primetals Technologies Germany GmbH]Central Operation Cockpit (COC)Primetals Technologies has developed an innovative centralized control system, the Central Operation Cockpit (COC), designed to enable a single operator to oversee major production units of a modern steel plant. The COC utilizes multiple integrated displays to instantly present critical events occurring throughout the plant. These events are detected, e.g., by AI-powered assistant functions. They provide operators with precise operational guidance, enabling rapid corrective actions and reducing downtime.The COC has already been implemented in six plant projects, where it has contributed to more stable operation and a reduced operator's workload. With its modular design, the COC is adaptable not only to steel plant applications but also can be used in a wide range of industrial sectors, supporting enhanced competitiveness and potential market expansion. MHI Launches "Prismo," a Next-Generation Transit SystemCombining High Environmental Performance with Simplified Infrastructure[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. GX Solutions]PrismoThe new eco-friendly next-generation Transit System "Prismo" has launched in May 2025. Based on Fully Driverless operated vehicles (Level: GOA4) with extensive proven track records both domestically and abroad, it incorporates innovative energy storage module and energy management systems that eliminate the need for power rail, along with a center guidance system that allows for a slimmer track design. As an innovative new transportation system, it has attracted significant interest from both Japan and overseas, with high expectations arising from the market. Additionally, vehicle manufacturing is carried out at the Mihara Machinery Works Carbon Neutral Transition Hub Mihara (Hiroshima Prefecture), which has reduced CO2 emissions by 97.5% through solar power generation, playing a key role in MHI's MISSION NET ZERO. This also represents a strong example of business domain expansion, with expectations for enhancing the competitiveness of transit systems and driving business growth. MHIET Achieves Rated Operation of a 100% Hydrogen Engine Generation Set at Demonstration FacilityRealizing Japan's Highest Output for 100% Hydrogen[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engine & Turbocharger, Ltd. Engine & Energy Division]100% Hydrogen Engine Generation SetAt the demonstration facility for the 6-cylinder 100% hydrogen engine generation set installed at the Sagamihara Plant, MHIET (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engine & Turbocharger, Ltd.) achieved a rated output (435 kW / 1,500 rpm) during 100% hydrogen operation, marking Japan's highest ever 100% hydrogen rated operation. Hydrogen engines are prone to unstable combustion due to their large size and high power density, but on this occasion, MHIET successfully suppressed such combustion by controlling the ignition process. Furthermore, the Company established and implemented safety guidelines and design standards to ensure the safe handling of hydrogen. Looking ahead to future societal trends, MHIET will continue working toward the practical application of these engines. MHI Launches the LXZ / KXZ3 Series of Multi-Split Air-Conditioners for BuildingsA Combination of Both Comfort and Energy Efficiency[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. Air-Conditioner Designing & Engineering Department]Multi-Split Air-Conditioners for Buildings in Japan LXZ SeriesMHI Thermal Systems has launched the new LXZ / KXZ3 Series multi-split air-conditioners for buildings, which combine both comfort and energy efficiency via structural and design innovations. This new product represents a full model change of the conventional model, more than 20 years after its initial development. The new model features a high-efficiency scroll compressor optimized for the low-GWP R32 refrigerant and variable-temperature and capacity control, enabling reductions in cooling-mode power consumption of approximately 10-21% compared to conventional models. It also supports continuous heating operation using a hot gas bypass method. Additionally, the system maintains a wide operating range of up to 52℃ during cooling and down to -25℃ during heating, ensuring adaptability to diverse environments. The model's features, designed for serviceability and ease of installation and combined with an innovative design, have been met with high regard. The LXZ series for Japan was awarded the GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2025, while the KXZ3 series for Europe received the international Italian design award, A'DESIGN AWARD 2025, and these accolades have further elevated the brand's value. MHI Develops Automated Warehouses and Production Processes Maximizing the Throughput of Air-Conditioning Equipment[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries - Mahajak Air Conditioners Co., Ltd. (MACO) Business Department]Exterior of the MACO Automated WarehouseMHI has developed fully automated warehouses and production processes that enable centralized in-house management of all processes from the production planning of air-conditioning equipment to manufacturing, storage, and shipping. Since becoming fully operational, the system has maintained stable performance, increasing throughput (the capacity for production over a given period) by 40%. It also centralizes the management of previously distributed systems and their associated information, such as orders, production plans, and inventory. This is achieved with QR code-based visualization and AS / RS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System) using overhead conveyors and stacker cranes, thereby reducing inventory storage and handling costs by 65% compared with conventional warehouses. Establishment and Company-Wide Rollout of Green Manufacturing Processes Combining Productivity Improvement and Energy Conservation[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Commercial Aircraft Systems]Nagoya Aerospace Systems Works Oye PlantBy leveraging digital technology and scientific approaches to conduct energy loss diagnostics and visualize factory equipment, this initiative has achieved both productivity gains and energy savings without requiring large-scale investment while still maintaining product quality. Centered on Nagoya Aerospace Systems Works Oye Plant, MHI launched its activities in FY2021. A cross-departmental team has been promoting energy conservation and streamlining of factory equipment with positive results. In FY2024, compared to FY2021, MHI achieved an 18% reduction in energy intensity and a 4,200-ton reduction in CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the Company received the "Agency for Natural Resources and Energy Commissioner's Award" at 2025 Energy Conservation Grand Prize. This scheme has been standardized and is currently being rolled out to other sites. Practical Application of "MAG Machining" to Reduce Costs and Environmental Impact Aimed at Skin Panel Manufacturing for Aircrafts[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Commercial Aircraft Systems]Skin (Bottom) and Frame (Top) Processed by MAG MachiningMHI has put their "MAG (Mitsubishi Advanced Green) Machining Method" into practical use for high-precision machining of large core aircraft structural panels (frames and skins). Conventional chemical milling, which uses large quantities of chemicals to melt aluminum, was previously required for precision machining aluminum alloy panels up to 9 meters long with tolerances in the 10-micron range, meaning that reducing chemical usage to lower costs and environmental impact was a pressing challenge. Therefore, MHI developed MAG machining that combines cutting tool capable of handling complex shapes, technology that controls machining volume while measuring plate thickness using ultrasonic waves, and technology that automatically rectifies machining paths. MHI first adopted this for skin processing in FY2017. Then, by FY2025, the Company achieved the world's first machining of frames and completed the adoption of MAG machining for all parts previously processed by chemical milling. Compared to before, costs were reduced by approximately 30% and this fundamental machining method for aircraft manufacturing - established globally only by MHI - has been highly praised by The Boeing Company in the U.S. Autonomous Mobile Collaborative Robot Platform "FCR-PF"Automation and Reduced Processing Times in Manufacturing[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Research Institute]Flexible Collaborative Robot Platform: FCR-PFMHI Group has developed and implemented an autonomous mobile robot system (FCR-PF: Flexible Collaborative Robot Platform) to enhance throughput, reduce lead times, and minimize manpower at its manufacturing sites. This collaborative robot system, which can work together with workers in existing production areas, is software-driven and can easily increase the number of tasks it can handle by installing applications and changing the hand at the tip. It is also characterized as a "multi-skilled worker " that can perform not only one task but various other tasks. In addition, it can perform difficult tasks by cooperating with multiple robots, and it is also possible to combine individually introduced robots according to the situation. The development was completed with specifications that can be operated even in harsh field environments, and the system has already started to be operated in the manufacturing sites of the group. It has contributed to freeing workers from dangerous work and simple repetitive work, shifting to high-value-added work, and robotization/mechanization of skilled skills. In the future, the autonomous mobile multi-skilled worker collaborative robot system, which can improve the capacity utilization rate and investment effect, is expected to expand automation to improve throughput and shorten lead time. MHI Has Developed Ultrasonic Testing that Significantly Reduces Inspection Lead Times[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Research Institute]MHI has developed two UT (Ultrasonic Testing) technologies that enable inspections otherwise impossible with conventional methods. The "Adaptive UT" technology estimates the surface profile and corrects wave reflection and refraction, enabling direct inspection of internal defects without modifying complex surfaces. This technology has been implemented in boilers, reducing inspection lead times by 70% during periodic boiler inspections. In steam turbines, commercial aircraft, special vehicles, and other applications, it has enabled the inspection and quality verification of areas that were previously difficult to assess, resulting in greater design flexibility and improved reliability. The "Internal Thread UT" quantitatively measures thread height to determine damage, enabling integrity assessment of threaded sections without removing any bolts. Compared to conventional inspections that required bolts to be removed, this approach significantly reduces inspection lead times by 80% for steam turbines. These UT technologies, which defy industry norms, greatly contribute to the Company's after-sales service operations and design innovations by expanding design flexibility while ensuring quality, and are also expected to help shorten manufacturing lead times through their application as in-process inspections on production lines. Maintenance Activities for Factory Infrastructure Equipment Utilizing Digital Technology in Factories[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Value Chain Headquarters]Advanced Factory Management Using Infrastructure Data AnalysisThis refers to activities to advance equipment maintenance, which tasks that tend to depend on experience and skills, by leveraging digital technology. In practice, this involves utilizing digital technologies such as IoT sensors that can be easily retrofitted to equipment and data cleansing to extract key features (numerical representations of data characteristics) from large datasets, thereby streamlining and enhancing the efficiency of infrastructure maintenance operations within MHI factories. The focus was on Hiroshima Machinery Works Kan-on Plant, which has approximately 22,000 terminal electrical systems while IoT sensors have been installed in the transformer rooms at the very top of the electrical system, establishing a mechanism to monitor the entire plant. Previously, manual inspections and meter readings were conducted at all 22,000 terminal equipment points, but now, automatic evaluation can be performed using data from just 350 substations, aiming to reduce the inspection workload by approximately 60%. This reduces the risk of leakage and curtails power outage inspection times for individual equipment inspections, which helps to prevent factory downtime. This is something that can also be deployed at other factories. MHI Rolls Out Company-Wide XR PlatformAccelerating DX in Design and Production Processes[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Digital Innovation Division]Improved Layout Marking Efficiency by Overlaying Blocking PlansMHI has promoted the company-wide deployment of XR(Note) technologies that enable the digital transformation of design and production processes by displaying digital data such as CAD in virtual spaces or on actual products, thereby preventing design rework and streamlining assembly and inspection operations. By standardizing and platformizing XR environment setup and operational procedures, the Company established a system enabling anyone to easily build and operate XR environments. As of the end of December 2025, adoption and pilot implementation have progressed accordingly across 12 departments. In aerospace systems, utilizing XR technology during the initial design phase assisted with identifying issues in product assembly and machining early on, helping to prevent rework. For commercial aircrafts and submarines, overlaying part installation positions onto the actual products has halved the time required for marking and layout work. Further company-wide implementation is expected to enhance profitability across the entire Group.(Note) XR (Cross Reality) is an umbrella term covering VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), MR (Mixed Reality), and other related technologies.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

TOKYO, Mar 17, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL GROUP Co., Ltd. (Head office: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; Group CEO: Koichiro Tanaka) served as a category sponsor (awards ceremonies) for the LIGA.i Blind Soccer Top League 2025 (organized by the NPO Japan Blind Football Association, JBFA), held from August 2, 2025, to February 23, 2026.TANAKA has been a partner of the JBFA and a sponsor of the Japan Blind Football Women’s National Team since 2017, supporting their activities to raise awareness of and promote blind football. As a category sponsor of the tournament, TANAKA sponsored the operation of the awards ceremonies with the aim of contributing to the further development of blind football, and provided medals, commemorative items, and trophies to be awarded to teams and players.The LIGA.i Blind Soccer Top League was established in 2022, and this year marked its fourth tournament. The LIGA.i Blind Soccer Top League 2025 kicked off with the first round in August 2025, proceeded through the second round on December 7, and concluded with the final round on February 23, 2026, at Yokohama Budokan (Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture). After a series of exciting matches, free bird mejirodai won the championship and buen cambio yokohama finished as runner-up.At the awards ceremony held at the venue after the matches concluded, the Most Valuable Player award was presented to Yuzuki Sonobe (free bird mejirodai). The Top Scorer award was shared by four players: Ryo Kawamura (Shinagawa CC Papelecial), Yuki Saito (buen cambio yokohama), Sodai Hongo (free bird mejirodai), and Yuzuki Sonobe (free bird mejirodai). The special award, the TANAKA Great Effort Award, was presented to Shunsuke Nakamura (buen cambio yokohama). The final round also featured a full day of events, including visitor participation activities, greeting events with mascot characters, and cheerleading performances, and attracted a record 1,420 visitors, the highest in LIGA.i history (according to the organizer).The matchesTournament OverviewTournament NameLIGA.i Blind Soccer Top League 2025OrganizerNPO Japan Blind Football AssociationDatesAugust 2, 2025, to February 23, 2026Venue・Shinagawa LIGA.i Blind Soccer Top League 2025 Round 1: August 2; Shinagawa General Gymnasium (Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo)・LIGA.i Blind Soccer Top League 2025 Round 2: December 7; Fukushi Enterprise Sumida Field (Sumida-ku, Tokyo)・KPMG LIGA.i Blind Soccer Top League 2025 Round 3: February 23, 2026; Yokohama Budokan (Yokohama City, Kanagawa)Special Event Websitehttps://liga-i.b-soccer.jp/ Tournament ResultsMatch Results on February 23 ・Match 1: ・Match 2:buen cambio yokohama 2–1 Saitama T.Wingsfree bird mejirodai 1–2 Shinagawa CC PapelecialFinal Standings:Champion: free bird mejirodai2nd Place: buen cambio yokohama3rd Place: Shinagawa CC Papelecial4th Place: Saitama T.WingsContributions by TANAKATeam Awards・Champion Team: League Cup (Championship Silver Plate with Tournament Logo)・Champion Team Players: Medals (with Tournament Logo)Individual Awards・Most Valuable Player: Commemorative Item (Plaque with Tournament Logo)・Top Scorer: Commemorative Item (Plaque with Tournament Logo)・TANAKA Great Effort Award: Commemorative Item (Crystal Trophy with 1/25 oz. Platinum Vienna Harmony Coin and Tournament Logo)・Player of the Match: Commemorative Item (Crystal Trophy with Tournament Logo)*Only the Player of the Match will be awarded in each of the six matchesMeaning Behind the League Name “LIGA.i”“LIGA.i” represents the hope to improve “Intensity,” “Influence,” and “Integrity” to enhance the value of blind football and create a more inclusive society. Along with this desire to change today’s society, the fact that everyone involved in “LIGA.i” has the freedom to create their own unique “i” generates diversity, allowing every single person to take the initiative in building the league.*With the establishment of the new league, LIGA.i, in 2022, blind football now has a three-tournament system consisting of the Japan Championship, in which club teams from across the country can participate; the Regional League, which is held in four areas across the country; and the Top League, in which only teams that meet certain eligibility conditions can participate.About TANAKASince its foundation in 1885, TANAKA has built a portfolio of products to support a diversified range of business uses focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volume of precious metals it handles. Over many years, TANAKA has manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry and provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and assets. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies in Japan and worldwide collaborate on manufacturing, sales, and technology development to offer a full range of products and services. With 5,591 employees, the group’s consolidated net sales for the fiscal year ended December 2024 were 846.9 billion yen.TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL GROUP Co., Ltd.TANAKA Corporate Websitehttps://www.tanaka.co.jp/english/Press inquiriesTANAKA PRECIOUS METAL GROUP Co., Ltd.https://www.tanaka.co.jp/support/req/other_contact_e/index.htmlPress Release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20260317.pdf Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Mar 17, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Tokyo, CEO: Haruo Naito, “Eisai”) has announced the establishment of Eisai Global Capability Centre (EGCC) within Eisai Knowledge Centre, India, in Visakhapatnam (Vizag), Andhra Pradesh, India. The opening ceremony was held today, marking the commencement of its operation. The Centre serves as Eisai’s information technology hub.(Standing from left to right) Muneo Takahashi, Consul General of Japan in Chennai (South India Jurisdiction); KeisukeNaito, Eisai COO and Chief Growth Officer; Yumiko Aoyagi, First Secretary, Embassy of Japan in India; VijayaKrishnan, IAS District Director, Anakapalli.)The establishment of EGCC represents a core initiative of Eisai Group’s long-term IT strategy. By integrating external expertise and cutting-edge technologies, the EGCC insources the design and operation of internal information technology services. This, in turn, enables delivery of standardized high quality information technology services in a secure environment, strongly supporting Eisai Group’s global business operations. With the EGCC taking the lead in global IT functions, Eisai will transition its organizational structure, allowing regional IT functions to focus more on strategic business transformation aligning with their region-specific operations.In its initial phase, the EGCC will focus primarily on standardizing global IT infrastructure operations. The Centre plans to gradually expand its scope to include cybersecurity, data & analytics, and operational applications, in response to business needs.Eisai established “Eisai Knowledge Centre, India, in Andhra Pradesh in 2009. Since then the facility has served as a core operational hub for our global production and process research, while also contributing to employment creation in the local area. Andhra Pradesh is currently spearheading initiatives to establish a “New IT City” by designating Special Economic Zone (SEZ), attracting data centers and AI hubs, and aiming to create 300,000 IT jobs. By establishing the EGCC within the “Eisai Knowledge Centre, India”, we aim to recruit and nurture excellent global IT human resource who resonates with our “human health care (hhc)” concept. Through long-term employment and career development opportunities, we will contribute to the development of the local IT ecosystem and economic prosperity.Media Inquiries:Public Relations Department,Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120Photographs of Inside and Outside of the Global Capability Center Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

・Entire process completed in just 8 weeks, including AI development, UAV installation, and flight・Strengthened collaboration with Shield AI to accelerate mission autonomy developed in JapanTOKYO, Mar 17, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has successfully conducted flight demonstrations of AI-powered mission autonomy developed for use in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by leveraging an AI development environment through Hivemind Enterprise provided by US company Shield AI Inc. (hereinafter SAI Inc.). The entire process, from AI development to UAV installation and flight, was completed in just eight weeks.In previous development efforts, MHI built and maintained an environment that leveraged multiple open-source products to perform in-house coding, AI training, simulation evaluation, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing(Note), which required significant effort. In contrast, by leveraging Hivemind Enterprise for this project, greater focus could be placed on developing mission autonomy.Mission autonomy development for this flight demonstration began in September 2025. Flight demonstrations were conducted on November 7 at the test field in Inashiki District, Ibaraki Prefecture, and on December 18 at the test field in Ota City, Gunma Prefecture. Specifically, the AI was completed following prior AI training, simulation evaluation, and HIL testing, then installed in the ARMD (Affordable Rapid-prototyping Mitsubishi-Drone initiative) UAV, which flew through the skies, completing successful flight demonstrations.Mission autonomy is a critical technology shaping Japan's UAV operations, and MHI considers domestic production essential. Building on the rapid development of this Japan-made mission autonomy system, MHI and SAI will strengthen collaboration and further accelerate mission autonomy development.Leveraging the latest AI technology to address various challenges through UAV, MHI strives to help realize a safe, secure, and comfortable society.(Note) A method for verifying the operation of hardware before installationARMD SpecificationsDimensions: Overall length 2.5 m, main wingspan 2.5 mTakeoff weight: 20 kgPower source: Engine (a) ARMD-01(Unit 1) (b) ARMD-02(Unit 2)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

TOKYO, Japan, Mar 17, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The University of Tokyo (UTokyo) and NEC Corporation (NEC) have concluded an strategic collaboration agreement and will establish a new NEC-UTokyo Lab. This initiative is based on the "Future Synergy with AI: Toward Trustworthy Social Implementation" program that promotes a prosperous society where people and AI can succeed together. The NEC-UTokyo Lab will host joint activities under this agreement, driving three integrated initiatives: exploring issues through discussions with diverse stakeholders, advancing social implementation through collaborative programs, and fostering talent development.This agreement advances efforts to develop an AI-native society, including thought leadership (*1) activities and actual implementation. Both parties will engage not only in technological development but also initiatives that include legal reforms, the formation of ethical and social norms, and the deepening of interdisciplinary research. Through these efforts, both parties will promote a new vision for society based on safety and security within an AI-native society that contributes to a sustainable future.Overview of the collaboration between UTokyo and NECBackgroundIn recent years, AI has been rapidly evolving and is poised to significantly transform society and industry. At the same time, diverse challenges surrounding AI utilization have become apparent, including ethics, social acceptability, and the relationship between people and AI. During this transition to an AI-native society, it is essential to move beyond isolated technological development and partial institutional reforms. Instead, a framework is needed for the design and implementation of a vision for the future that encompasses the whole of society.UTokyo and NEC will comprehensively advance efforts under this agreement, encompassing legal framework development, technological innovation, human resource cultivation, and concrete implementation, guided by the vision, "Future Synergy with AI: Toward Trustworthy Social Implementation." Concurrently, the organizations aim to strengthen Japan's industrial competitiveness and to resolve digital divides between regions.Under this agreement, by combining UTokyo's advanced knowledge with NEC's cutting-edge technologies, the organizations aim to become a powerful driving force for creating a prosperous society, where people and AI succeed together.NEC-UTokyo Lab Initiatives1. Creating platforms for leaders and experts to identify challenges and explore resolutionsBy bringing together diverse stakeholders, including industry leaders and legal experts, and integrating the knowledge of the University of Tokyo and NEC, the NEC-UTokyo Lab will explore questions centered on coexistence with AI from multiple perspectives. Through this activity, the lab will propose visions for Japan and the world's future alongside possible solutions for critical social challenges. Moreover, in addition to sharing these insights with society, the lab will seek to promote research and talent development within its Social Collaboration Program.2. Accelerating Social Implementation through the Social Collaboration ProgramThe NEC-UTokyo Lab’s Social Collaboration Program will be dedicated to designing a future where people and AI successfully coexist as new technologies grow throughout society.The boundaries between digital spaces based on data and AI and physical spaces where people live are gradually blurring. One example of this is the emergence of an agent economy where AI agents are becoming the primary actors in economic activities.To successfully promote these new social and economic systems, NEC and UTokyo will collaborate to explore the ideal forms of social systems, ethics, and legal frameworks, and promote their implementation. For example, NEC positions "automated negotiation AI" (*2), which facilitates optimal consensus-building among multiple AI agents, as a key technology underpinning the agent economy. Furthermore, the organizations will expand their research themes in the future and accelerate the implementation of AI solutions to build a sustainable and trustworthy AI-native society.3. Cultivating Next-Generation Leaders to Drive the AI-Native SocietyThe NEC-UTokyo Lab will work to cultivate talents capable of leading the realization of a prosperous society where people and AI succeed together. As part of this effort, the lab plans to prepare next-generation leaders through long-term internships and design education programs at the newly established "UTokyo College of Design" (*3).The lab will also promote flexible personnel exchanges where students and researchers from both UTokyo and NEC can interact. This will further strengthen organic collaboration and accelerate efforts from exploring questions to societal implementation of concepts and technologies.Comments from Both Parties"NEC, with its in-house developed generative AI technology and extensive AI implementation experience across various fields, and the University of Tokyo, with its advanced and broad expertise, will take the lead in creating a dialogue platform for diverse stakeholders to identify future societal challenges. We expect this strategic collaboration to become a platform for advancing AI implementation that contributes to building a better AI-native society and for cultivating the next generation of leaders who will drive this forward."Teruo Fujii, President, The University of Tokyo"We are delighted to establish the NEC-UTokyo Lab through this industry strategic collaboration agreement with the University of Tokyo. As AI fundamentally reshapes societal foundations, Japan's growth and industrial competitiveness now depend not only on technology but also on reliable, well-governed societal implementation. By combining the diverse knowledge of the University of Tokyo with NEC's implementation capabilities, we will advance the establishment of ‘trustworthy AI’ and promote its practical application throughout the world."Takayuki Morita, President and CEO, NEC Corporation(1) Thought Leadership: Leading discussions and direction in a specific field with deep expertise and unique insights, presenting a vision for the future and solutions to challenges. https://www.i-ise.com/en/index.html(2) Automatic Negotiation AI: NEC's proprietary AI technology that automates various adjustments and negotiations traditionally performed by humans.(3) UTokyo College of DesignAbout 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