วัน: 22 มกราคม 2025

- The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has kickstarted the second edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival with seminars on the mainland e-commerce market, addressing the pain points of local SMEs to help them build a stronger business foundation- The seminars cover practical topics such as strategies for selling through online shopping platforms, commonly used payment tools, building an effective fan base, collaboration plans with influencers, marketing skills and live-streaming production- One-on-one consultancy services will also be offered to local SMEs, with mainland e-commerce or online marketing experts advising on how to build suitable marketing strategiesHONG KONG, Jan 22, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - With e-commerce continuing to take a stronger hold globally, Mainland China has emerged as the clear market leader, providing enormous opportunities for Hong Kong’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). To help these companies seize new opportunities and develop their e-commerce capabilities in the mainland, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has launched the second edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival by rolling out expert-led seminars focusing specifically on the mainland e-commerce market. The seminars cover practical topics such as online shopping platform operation strategies and features, commonly used payment tools, the effective building of a fan base, collaboration plans with influencers, marketing skills and live-streaming production. One-on-one consultancy services are also being provided to help SMEs get the latest information and enhance their competitiveness, helping them tap into the rapidly changing mainland e-commerce market.Stephen Liang, Assistant Executive Director of the HKTDC, said that e-commerce continues to develop rapidly and is now a key driving force for global trade and economic growth. The HKTDC has been supporting government policies by promoting business digital transformation, encouraging local SMEs to embrace e-commerce and offering various activities to support them through the business transition that is required."In order to deepen Hong Kong businesses' understanding of mainland e-commerce platforms and gain practical experience, the HKTDC is holding the second edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival in August, which this year includes newly launched seminars with marketing experts providing practical knowledge relating to e-commerce in the mainland,” Mr Liang said. “This will give local SMEs a better understanding of e-commerce operations and help them formulate strategies appropriate to their products and brands, laying a solid foundation for entering the e-commerce sector. Additionally, one-on-one consultancy services will be offered, with mainland e-commerce or online marketing experts advising local SMEs on market development strategies that can help to promote their particular products or brands."Mr Liang added that trade relations between Hong Kong and the mainland are especially close, giving local SMEs a great advantage in terms of expanding into the mainland e-commerce market. "According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, national online retails sales for 2024 were RMB15.5 trillion, up 7.2% compared to 2023. The mainland leads the way in the world's online retail market, which underscores the huge business potential for Hong Kong’s SMEs."Many local companies struggle to create promotion plans for their quality brands and products that address the preferences of their target customers, largely because they have not fully understood how the mainland e-commerce market operates. Some SMEs also face operational challenges such as pricing strategies, inventory management and the terms of collaboration with influencers, preventing them from fully capturing the opportunities presented by e-commerce. The newly launched HKTDC seminars directly address the major difficulties faced by local SMEs in the e-commerce realm. Two seminars have already been held, one in December and one last week, in which experts shared insights on the mainland's e-commerce market profile and provided practical guidance in areas such as legal compliance, specific platform requirements and common pitfalls, receiving an enthusiastic response from participating companies.Details of upcoming seminars:DateTopicsContent27 February 2025Traditional e- commerce platformsHelp SMEs understand the features of traditional e-commerce platforms (Taobao/Tmall, JD.com, etc); examine how Hong Kong brands can choose the most suitable platform to drive sales and establish a strong market influenceApril 2025Social e-commerce market platformsExplore practical strategies for opening stores on social e-commerce platforms (such as Douyin, WeChat and Xiaohongshu) to expand into new customer groupsMay 2025Marketing on social media and private trafficGuide Hong Kong brands and products on utilising the popular social e-commerce platforms in the mainland, such as Douyin, WeChat and Xiaohongshu; look at how to build “organic communities” that emphasise natural dissemination; create highly popular “viral content” and convert social media interactions into actual salesJune 2025Influencer marketing and e-commerceExamine the opportunities and challenges in live-streaming e-commerce; introduce other online marketing strategies aside from live-streaming e-commerce; explore how to select the most suitable influencers to collaborate and leverage their fame in mainland to enhance brand awareness and drive salesSeminars already successfully held:18 December 2024Overview of the mainland e-commerce market, sharing on the inaugural Hong Kong Shopping Festival and introduction to the second editionUnderstand the unique e-commerce environment in the mainland; explore the shopping habits of mainland consumers and discuss the significance and impact on brands; share key learnings from the inaugural Hong Kong Shopping Festival and introduce the second edition16 January 2025Practical guide to e-commerceProvide practical guidance on legal compliance, specific platform requirements and common pitfalls; introduce some of the commonly used payment tools in the mainland; guide local SMEs on how to set up accounts for receiving payments; and highlight tax issues that need special attention in mainland e-commerce operationsSecond edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival returns in AugustThe HKTDC will organise the second Hong Kong Shopping Festival in August 2025, aiming to help SMEs seize e-commerce opportunities in the mainland. The festival is divided into four parts, including the newly added seminars and one-on-one consultancy services mentioned above and the return of the popular Discount Month and live-streaming e-commerce sessions from last year. Given the diversity of online marketing methods in the mainland, there are different ways for SMEs to increase brand exposure other than live-streaming sales. The second Hong Kong Shopping Festival will introduce customised marketing and channel services, such as incorporating more channels through “planting seeds” strategies. This will allow participating local SMEs to choose the most suitable services based on their product features, helping them gain a deeper understanding of marketing methods in the mainland e-commerce market.More details on the services being made available through the Hong Kong Shopping Festival will be announced by the HKTDC in due course.In addition, the HKTDC Digital Academy and Design Gallery’s (DG) cross-border e-commerce shops on Taobao and JD International have been offering comprehensive support to Hong Kong SMEs to leverage diverse e-commerce and digital marketing channels to explore mainland opportunities. The DG’s network of 70 physical sales outlets in the mainland serve as an ideal platform to promote Hong Kong brands in the region. Meanwhile, the HKTDC’s DG Studio programme helps to connect local businesses with physical retailers and e-commerce platforms in the ASEAN region.Websites- Pre-registration for the mainland e-commerce seminar on 27 February: https://bit.ly/4hdhELO- Details and registration for the second Hong Kong Shopping Festival: https://bit.ly/4h1FpX2Photo download: https://bit.ly/40HS5x2The second seminar being held as part of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival ran last week, introducing commonly used payment tools in the mainland and receiving support from many Hong Kong businesses.In 2024, the first Hong Kong Shopping Festival gathered more than 230 brands and invited renowned mainland KOLs to host livestreams of e-commerce sessions for Hong Kong SMEs, which received an enthusiastic response.Media enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department:HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Katy Wong    Tel: (852) 2584 4524       Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgHKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.comAbout 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 Mainland China, 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 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

SINGAPORE, Jan 21, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Indian New Year (Harvest Month) celebrations on 19 January, 2025 united migrant workers and locals in a day-long program, filled with joy, cultural performances, and community spirit. Proudly presented by Mett.AI, the event was organized in association with the Indian High Commission, Ministry of Manpower, and Assurance, Care and Engagement (ACE) and took place at the Kranji Recreation Centre.Over 50 local talented artists, along with 2000 migrant workers, delivered electrifying performances, showcasing spectacular cultural acts that reflect the vibrancy of the Indian harvest season. This grand event was made possible by the dedication of more than 120 passionate volunteers, who came together to turn this vision into reality.Present for the event were Mrs. Pooja M. Tillu, Deputy High Commissioner, and Mr. Tung Yui Fai, Chief, Assurance, Care and Engagement (ACE) Group of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Obayashi and Sian Chay proudly supported the event as Gold Sponsors, with Lulu Money joining as the esteemed Silver Sponsor. The celebrations promised an array of captivating highlights to engage and inspire attendees. The event was further enriched by the generous contributions of the Red Cross Society, Migrant Workers Centre, Google, POSB, and Singtel, along with outstanding support from local communities. The wellness program was expertly led by globally renowned organizations such as The Art of Living and the Isha Foundation. Attendees enjoyed a delightful culinary experience, with delicious meals thoughtfully prepared by KRSNA free meals and Balaji Vegetarian Restaurant.Attendees immersed themselves in authentic harvest-themed activities, including the traditional Pongal celebration and a lively cattle show, offering a unique connection to rich cultural traditions. To further enhance the experience, complimentary lunch, snacks, goodie bags, and refreshing sugarcane juice was provided to all attendees.Above all, this event marked a powerful celebration of unity, fostering stronger bonds between migrant workers and the local community. This initiative exemplifies the spirit of gratitude, inclusion, and cultural pride, which offered attendees a memorable experience as they welcome 2025 together.High Commission Of India wishes everyone a great year ahead and expressed, “ This event presents a remarkable opportunity to collaborate and create an unforgettable experience for fellow migrant workers and all the attendees. Together, we can ensure its resounding success and showcase the synergy of our efforts.”Ganesh Somwanshi, Founder and event presented, Mett.AI, reflects, “The world is inspired by Singapore’s visionary approach to cultural harmony and inclusion. This event is more than a celebration—it reflects the nation’s commitment to equality, cross-cultural understanding, and community development. By honoring the contributions of migrant workers and uniting diverse cultures, we aim to co-create an inspiring experience that embodies Singapore’s ethos and leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved.”Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, The Art Of Living shares, “Let me wish you all a very happy new year. This program, organized by Mett.AI and supported by the Indian High Commission and Ministry Of Manpower, hopes to bring more celebration and enthusiasm. We need to intigrate with the local culture, and Singapore is a country that believes in inclusivity. It's an example of how the world should be Free, prosperous, healthy, and harmonious.”Arun K , Lulu Money Singapore, adds, "The event organized by the Indian High Commission, Singapore, was a resounding success, and we're delighted to have been a part of it. We Lulu Money as a financial institution, we're committed to supporting migrant workers, and this event was a testament to the power of collaboration and community. We'd like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the team at the Indian High Commission Singapore and  Mett.Ai for their outstanding efforts in making this event a success. We look forward to many more successful events that uplift and support migrant workers."About Mett.AIMett.AI is driven with a passion for creating meaningful and impactful community-focused social initiatives. Specializing in marketing for purpose driven brands  and conceptualising  grassroot events, we craft campaigns that amplify social causes, bridge cultural divides, and celebrate the power of human connection. We are a bunch of passionate marketers. Learn more at www.mettai.worldFor queries contact:ganesh@mettai.world  Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Pasadena, CA, USA, Jan 21, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Now Corporation (OTC PINK:NWPN), an emerging leader in solar energy and utility solutions, announces its strategic focus on expanding into the California community solar market. This opportunity arises as California introduces new legislation, Assembly Bill 2316, designed to incentivize community solar projects that integrate advanced battery storage technologies.Assembly Bill 2316, recently signed into law, paves the way for broad adoption of community solar in California. The legislation benefits a wide range of stakeholders, including developers, consumers, and utility workers, while addressing the state's need for clean and reliable energy. By prioritizing projects with battery storage, California aims to shift solar power generated during the day to peak demand hours, ensuring greater grid stability and reliability.The Now Corporation, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Green Rain Solar Inc., specializes in urban solar energy and grid integration. Green Rain Solar Inc. is dedicated to transforming rooftop sunlight into grid-connected power in high-cost urban locations across the nation. With a mission to operate as a utility, Green Rain Solar aims to deliver energy efficiency and sustainability while generating long-term value for communities and investors.Green Rain Solar Inc. leverages proprietary technology and strategic partnerships to maximize the efficiency of solar installations. By integrating battery storage solutions, the company addresses California's need for dispatchable solar energy, delivering clean power precisely when it is needed most. This expertise positions The Now Corporation to play a vital role in California's burgeoning community solar market.About The Now CorporationThe Now Corporation (OTC: NWPN) is committed to advancing clean energy solutions through its subsidiary, Green Rain Solar Inc. Green Rain Solar focuses on urban rooftop solar installations and grid-connected power solutions, targeting markets with high energy costs. By combining state-of-the-art solar and battery technologies, The Now Corporation is dedicated to driving innovation and sustainability in the renewable energy sector.About Green Rain Solar Inc.Green Rain Solar Inc., a subsidiary of The Now Corporation (OTC:NWPN), is a solar energy utility company specializing in urban solar energy and grid integration. The company develops innovative rooftop solar projects to transform sunlight into grid-connected power, promoting sustainable energy solutions for high-cost urban areas.Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is subject to the safe harbor created by those sections. This material contains statements about expected future events and/or financial results that are forward-looking in nature and subject to risks and uncertainties. This includes the possibility that the business outlined in this press release may not be concluded due to unforeseen technical, installation, permitting, or other challenges. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of The Now Corporation to differ materially from those expressed herein. Except as required under U.S. federal securities laws, The Now Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.For press inquiries, please contact:Michael CiminoMichael@pubcopr.comSOURCE: The Now Corp. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.