Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: KKR Backs Ampol Refinancing; Iluvatar CoreX Raises $907 Million; IFC Funds Johor Data Centers; CapBay Launches MYR 200 Million Pool; Atome Secures $81 Million Facility; pQCee Raises Quantum Security Funding; Crypto.com Lands $400 Million Investment; Whale Extends Series C Round; and VAMRC Drives Manufacturing Innovation

Environmental Sustainability: China Launches Marine Climate Research Platform; HSBC Backs Nature Impact Accelerator; Hong Kong Opens EV Battery Recycling Plant; Winnow Expands Food Waste Technology; Malaysia Opens Solar Storage Tender; Rize Raises $31 Million For AgriTech; and South Korea Reviews Nuclear Expansion

Aviation: Air Cambodia Orders 20 C909 Regional Jets; C919 Begins First International Service; JAL Strengthens Alcohol Safety Controls; ANA Opens Disaster Backup Facility; Incheon Airport Reviews Queue Measures; and Thailand Pursues Airport Digital Transformation

Advanced Air Mobility: FCourier Deploys VTOL Drones For Relief; AAM Shanghai Showcases Industry Growth; SkyDrive Tests eVTOL Tourism Flights; South Korea Builds AAM Ecosystem; Korean Air Advances AI Aviation; South Korea Prepares UAM Demonstration; Sri Lanka Plans AAM Pilot; and Taiwan-Japan Expand Drone Cooperation

Marine: RMIT Develops Oil Spill Cleanup Robot; Hong Kong Expands Green Fuel Bunkering; Kawasaki Builds AI Digital Shipyard; Hyundai Tests Autonomous Ship Robot; HD Hyundai Launches AI Route Optimization; and South Korea-Indonesia Boost Marine Cooperation

Space: Australia Supports India Space Missions; China Expands Commercial Space Network; Skyroot Launches Private Indian Rocket; ISRO Advances Gaganyaan Testing; and India Plans More Space Missions

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Financing & Investments

APAC financing activity is increasingly focused on strategic growth areas including digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing, with investors backing companies and projects that support regional technology adoption and long-term economic transformation.

Australia

KKR has provided a cornerstone investment in a A$400 million ($275 million) financing facility for Australian fuel retailer Ampol, with funding from its private credit and insurance platforms. The financing will support Ampol’s refinancing activities and general corporate purposes.

💡Ampol operates fuel supply, refining and retail businesses in Australia and New Zealand, including the Lytton refinery in Queensland and about 2,200 retail sites across both markets. The investment was supported by Singapore-based Clifford Capital, as KKR expands its private credit activities in the Asia-Pacific region.


Hong Kong

Shanghai Iluvatar CoreX Semiconductor has raised about HKD 7.07 billion ($907 million) through an H-share placing in Hong Kong, marking the largest such placing in the city’s semiconductor sector since 2026, according to a statement from Kirkland & Ellis, which advised the company.

💡The semiconductor company plans to use the proceeds to strengthen supply chain capabilities, advance research and development, expand artificial intelligence computing solutions, pursue investments and acquisitions, and support general corporate purposes. Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Huatai International and J.P. Morgan acted as placing agents.

Malaysia

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) will provide up to $175 million in financing for AirTrunk Malaysia’s development of two hyperscale data centers in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The investment, comprising debt and equity financing, is pending final signing after approval by the IFC board.

💡The project includes an existing 150MW facility and a planned 270MW data center within the Southern Industrial and Logistics Cluster in Iskandar, Johor. The facilities will be powered by Tenaga Nasional Berhad and are expected to support Malaysia’s data hosting sector and create employment opportunities during construction and operations.

Malaysia

Malaysian fintech firm CapBay has partnered with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to provide growth financing for Malaysia Digital (MD) Status technology companies through a MYR 200 million ($49 million) financing pool. The MD Technology Financing Program will offer eligible companies access to financing of up to MYR 3 million, with repayment periods of up to 60 months.

💡The program targets technology companies that may struggle to secure traditional loans due to asset-light business models, using CapBay’s AI-based credit assessment model to evaluate business performance and growth potential. CapBay said it has facilitated more than MYR 5.6 billion in financing for over 2,600 enterprises since 2016.

Philippines

Atome Philippines has secured a PHP5 billion ($81 million) wholesale financing facility from Asia United Bank to support the expansion of its PayLater Anywhere Card and other financial services. The Singapore-headquartered digital finance platform said the card has been issued to more than 3 million users in the Philippines.

💡Atome said a majority of cardholders use the product for daily expenses including groceries, food, household purchases and bill payments, with adoption extending beyond Metro Manila. The company also offers lending, savings and insurance products in the Philippines as it expands services for customers underserved by traditional banks.

Singapore

Singapore-based post-quantum cryptography company pQCee has raised $3.9 million in a seed funding round co-led by SGInnovate and Lotus One Investment, with participation from In Group Holdings, Wavemaker Ventures, SUTD Venture Holdings and Apsara Investments. The funding follows the company’s $2.8 million institutional round and will be used to expand its Singapore team, strengthen its presence across Asia and support expansion into the United States, Europe and the Middle East.

💡pQCee develops post-quantum cryptography products designed to protect against “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks, in which encrypted data is collected for future decryption using quantum computers. The company has integration partnerships with Thales, Feitian, Netrust, SendQuick, PQShield, Microsoft and TechCreate to support deployment of its quantum-safe security products across enterprise and hardware security environments.

Singapore

Crypto.com has secured a $400 million strategic investment from Citadel Securities in its first institutional funding round, valuing the cryptocurrency platform at $20 billion. The company said the capital will support its expansion across asset classes, including tokenized securities and derivatives, as it broadens its presence in both digital asset and traditional financial markets.

💡The investment comes as institutional participation in the crypto sector continues to grow, with digital assets increasingly integrated into capital market infrastructure.

Singapore

Whale secured a $40 million extension to its Series C funding round, taking the total raised in the round to $100 million. The Singapore-based enterprise AI firm said the capital will fund expansion in North America, the Middle East and Europe.

💡CMB International and SMBC Asia Rising Fund led the financing, with Krungsri Finnovate, Singtel Innov8, Hyundai Motor Group and Charisma Partners also investing. Whale develops AI software that helps businesses monitor and automate operations using data collected from connected devices, and said it serves more than 1,600 enterprise customers in over 45 countries.

Vietnam-Singapore

Vietnam and Singapore are developing the Vietnam Advanced Manufacturing Research Center (VAMRC) to support automation, robotics, artificial intelligence and digital transformation in manufacturing. The initiative follows a cooperation agreement between Vietnam’s Becamex and Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR).

💡The proposed center will link companies, universities and research organizations to develop, test and validate manufacturing technologies before deployment. It will provide shared facilities for research, prototyping and technology trials, while helping factories upgrade processes without replacing entire production lines.

Environmental Sustainability

China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea are advancing sustainability initiatives across marine research, circular economy, renewable energy, agriculture and clean technology, highlighting a regional focus on climate resilience, resource efficiency and low-carbon infrastructure development.

China

China has commissioned an offshore platform in the Yellow Sea designed for controlled experiments on coastal ecosystems, as researchers seek to study marine responses to climate change and human activity under real ocean conditions. The facility, developed by the Institute of Oceanology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is located off Rongcheng in Shandong province.

💡The 2,000-square-meter platform can regulate factors including temperature, nutrients and dissolved oxygen to simulate conditions such as ocean warming, acidification and eutrophication. Researchers said the open-access facility will support studies on coastal resilience, aquaculture management, disaster prevention and ecosystem restoration.

Global

Companies Creating Change (C3) and HSBC have launched the C3 Nature Impact Accelerator to support ecosystem restoration and nature-based initiatives across the Middle East, North Africa, Türkiye and Southeast Asia. The 10-week programme will provide training, expert support and partnership opportunities for selected projects focused on environmental restoration and community resilience.

💡The accelerator will support an initial cohort of 20 initiatives, with 10 to 12 projects advancing to a second phase of tailored coaching. The programme will focus on dryland and desert restoration, urban nature and heat resilience, and wetlands and freshwater ecosystem restoration.

Hong Kong-Mainland China

Hong Kong has commissioned its first electric vehicle (EV) battery processing plant at EcoPark in Tuen Mun, operated by Envision Greenwise Holdings and its subsidiary Chun Yang International. The facility is designed to process 10,000 tonnes of retired EV batteries annually, converting them into reusable materials through automated recycling technology.

💡The plant will support Hong Kong’s battery recycling infrastructure and the development of a regional circular supply chain. Envision Greenwise also formed a joint venture with China Resources Recycling International Development and Guangdong Brunp Recycling Technology, while signing an agreement with CLP Power to study the recovery and use of residual energy from retired batteries.

London-Singapore

Winnow, a London-headquartered food waste technology company, acquired Singapore’s Lumitics, expanding its presence in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

💡Lumitics develops computer vision-based systems that track food waste in commercial kitchens using hardware and software. Its customers will transition to Winnow’s VisionAI platform, which uses artificial intelligence to identify and measure discarded food, while service continues during the migration. Winnow operates in more than 3,500 kitchens across nearly 100 countries.

Malaysia

Malaysia’s energy ministry has opened a new tender for 2,500MW of solar projects combined with 1,250MW of battery storage capacity as the country expands renewable energy generation. The sixth round of the Large-Scale Solar programme also includes a separate 150MW allocation for Bumiputera developers.

💡The programme will be split across three packages covering utility-scale solar and battery storage projects, with selected developments expected to begin operations by the end of 2029. The government estimates the initiative will draw MYR 13 billion to MYR 15 billion ($3.2 billion-$3.7 billion) in investment and cut annual carbon emissions by about 2.6 million tonnes.

Singapore

Agricultural technology company Rize has raised $31 million in a Series B round, comprising $20 million in equity and $11 million in debt financing. The funding brings Rize’s total capital raised to $47 million and will support expansion into export markets, development of AI tools for farmers and field teams, and carbon-related initiatives.

💡The company works with about 17,000 smallholder farmers across more than 50,000 hectares in Vietnam and Indonesia to reduce emissions from rice cultivation using water management techniques. Rize said its approach can lower methane emissions and water use while improving farmer income, and it has completed initial rice exports to markets including Europe, Canada, Australia and Singapore.

South Korea

South Korea is reviewing plans to expand nuclear power generation and introduce small modular reactors (SMRs) to meet rising electricity demand from major industrial projects, including planned semiconductor clusters and artificial intelligence data centers. The government estimates additional power demand could exceed 50 gigawatts by 2040 due to industrial expansion, transport electrification and heating needs.

💡The review will be reflected in the country’s next electricity supply and demand plan, alongside a push to increase renewable energy capacity to 100GW by 2030. Meanwhile, 136 civic organizations have called for a reconsideration of the projects, saying the planned developments could undermine climate goals, damage ecosystems and proceed without sufficient public consultation.

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Aviation

China is advancing its aviation ambitions through COMAC aircraft expansion and new international routes; Japan, South Korea and Thailand focus on airline safety, operational continuity and airport modernization initiatives.

Cambodia-China

Air Cambodia has agreed to purchase 20 C909 regional jets from China’s Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), making it the first foreign flag carrier to place a bulk order for the aircraft. The first deliveries are expected in the second half of 2026 and will enter commercial service with the airline.

💡The C909, formerly known as the ARJ21, seats up to 97 passengers and is designed for regional routes and airports with challenging operating conditions. The aircraft currently operates in markets including Indonesia, Laos and Vietnam, serving 28 overseas cities, according to COMAC.

China-Mongolia

China’s C919 passenger jet will begin its first scheduled international service next month, with Air China operating flights between Beijing and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The daily round-trip route is scheduled to begin on Aug. 12, marking the aircraft’s first regular international passenger operation.

💡The domestically developed narrowbody aircraft has previously operated regional routes, including services between mainland China and Hong Kong. The Beijing-Ulaanbaatar route will be operated by Air China, which will fly the C919 alongside existing operators including China Eastern Airlines.

Japan

Japan Airlines (JAL) has submitted a report to Japan’s transport ministry on measures to prevent further alcohol-related safety incidents after receiving an administrative warning linked to a May 2026 incident involving two cabin attendants.The ministry said the incident exposed failures in alcohol testing procedures, safety management and employees’ compliance awareness.

💡JAL said it will strengthen oversight of alcohol-related risks through external reviews and updated monitoring systems. The airline has faced multiple alcohol-related incidents since 2024, including cases involving cockpit crew in Dallas, Melbourne and Honolulu, which led to regulatory actions and additional corrective measures.

Japan

All Nippon Airways (ANA) has opened a new flight operations facility in Hokkaido to maintain airline functions during major disasters or security emergencies. The facility will take over part of the operations previously concentrated at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.

💡The site has about 60 employees responsible for functions including flight management, crew coordination and aircraft operation decisions during disruptions. ANA said the move is part of efforts to strengthen business continuity against risks such as major earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and terrorist attacks.

South Korea

Incheon International Airport is considering adding barriers at airline check-in areas after repeated queue-jumping incidents involving suspected Chinese daigou traders, which resulted in injuries to airport staff, local media reported. The incidents involved passengers bypassing designated lines to reach check-in counters for China-bound flights.

💡The airport is reviewing measures including installing plastic partitions between existing queue barriers to improve crowd control. Authorities said congestion has increased on some China routes as airlines deploy larger aircraft, while tighter enforcement in China has temporarily reduced the number of daigou traders traveling from South Korea.

Thailand, UAE, Spain

Thai Aviation Industries (TAI), UAE-based Edgewater Solutions Limited and Spain’s Amadeus have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a roadmap for modernizing passenger processing and airport operations at Thailand’s international and regional airports. The companies will define the scope, implementation phases and technical requirements for potential deployments, with no financial terms disclosed.

💡The roadmap will cover passenger processing, identity and border management, airport operations and data integration. Proposed technologies include self-service check-in, automated baggage handling, biometric processing, e-gates, operational databases, resource management systems and analytics linking passenger and operational data.

Advanced Air Mobility

Developments in China, Japan, South Korea, Sri Lanka and Taiwan highlight continued investment in drones and eVTOL technologies, with efforts centered on testing, regulation, infrastructure and future commercialization.

China

Vertaxi subsidiary FCourier deployed its type-certified E40H hybrid-electric VTOL UAVs to support flood relief operations in Guangxi and Fujian, using the aircraft as airborne communication platforms after severe weather disrupted power, roads and mobile networks. The company said five E40H systems operated in Guangxi, providing emergency communications coverage, reconnaissance support and connectivity for affected communities.

💡The UAVs completed multiple missions supporting disaster response, with the E40H providing mobile network coverage through an onboard base station while transmitting aerial data to emergency teams. FCourier said the platform, which holds certification from China’s aviation regulator, has also been used in previous emergency response and infrastructure monitoring operations.

China

The 2026 International Low-Altitude Economy Expo (AAM Shanghai) will be held from July 22 to July 25 in Shanghai,bringing together more than 400 companies focused on advanced air mobility, eVTOL aircraft, drones and related technologies. The event will feature full-scale aircraft displays, low-altitude infrastructure systems, airspace management solutions and industrial drone applications.

💡Exhibitors include eVTOL developers, UAV manufacturers, aerospace companies and technology suppliers from China and abroad. The expo will highlight uses including emergency response, logistics, urban air mobility and low-altitude operations, with industry forums and flight demonstrations scheduled during the event.

Japan

SkyDrive has completed a demonstration flight of its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Yamaguchi Prefecture, simulating future scenic tourism flights over the Seto Inland Sea. The remotely operated flight was conducted without passengers and covered about 2 km at a maximum speed of 86 km per hour.

💡The demonstration tested operational processes for future eVTOL tourism services, including passenger transfers from ground transport to takeoff facilities. SkyDrive is developing the aircraft for commercial service targeted from 2028 and has previously conducted test flights at locations including the Osaka Expo site and Tokyo Big Sight.

South Korea

Skyports Infrastructure, UI Helicopter and BETA Technologies have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop the infrastructure and services needed for South Korea’s commercial advanced air mobility (AAM) operations, targeting a 2029 launch. The partnership brings together vertiport infrastructure, aircraft operations and electric aircraft manufacturing capabilities.

💡Under the agreement, UI Helicopter plans to acquire up to 20 BETA electric aircraft, including vertical takeoff and landing and conventional takeoff and landing models, with deliveries expected from 2029. Skyports will support vertiport development and charging infrastructure deployment, including a planned network on Jeju Island.

South Korea

Korean Air showcased its artificial intelligence pilot system and advanced air mobility technologies at the Korea Drone & Urban Air Mobility Expo in Incheon, highlighting autonomous flight, traffic management and digital aircraft maintenance capabilities. The airline presented its AI Pilot system for future unmanned aircraft and ACROSS, a platform designed to monitor multiple advanced air mobility vehicles and optimize flight operations.

💡The carrier also displayed uncrewed aircraft platforms, a collaborative combat aircraft and an AI-based maintenance system that uses drones, ground robots and image analysis to identify aircraft defects. Korean Air said the technologies are part of efforts to advance digital transformation in aerospace, though autonomous aviation development continues to face regulatory, infrastructure and public acceptance challenges.

South Korea

South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has established a pilot operation model for the country’s first Urban Air Mobility (UAM) demonstration service planned for 2028, defining requirements for operations, aircraft, personnel, vertiports, air traffic management and insurance. The framework will initially allow tourism, regional-link and airport-link services in designated demonstration zones under controlled operating conditions.

💡The ministry will also begin a program to train UAM pilots and mechanics with the Korea Transportation Safety Authority to prepare for future commercialization. Selected trainees will receive support for specialized programs with global aircraft manufacturers and qualification programs.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority is preparing a pilot project to introduce passenger-carrying electric aerial vehicles as part of efforts to develop AAM services. The authority said it has completed initial project phases and is finalizing preparations for a demonstration focused on operational, regulatory and safety requirements.

💡The pilot will evaluate piloted electric aircraft capable of carrying up to six passengers for uses including transport, cargo delivery, medical services and access to remote areas. Sri Lanka is developing local regulations for advanced air mobility systems and plans to work with private-sector partners, with initial aircraft expected to be sourced from Thailand under the EHang brand.

Taiwan-Japan

Taiwan and Japan signed three agreements to expand cooperation in advanced air mobility and drone applications, including eVTOL aircraft for emergency medical transport, large cargo drones and training drones. The partnerships involve Taiwanese drone maker 7A Drones, the Industrial Technology Research Institute, Japanese eVTOL company SkyDrive, logistics drone firm AlterSky and AeroJapan.

💡The agreements aim to advance demonstrations and commercial deployment in Japan, including planned medical transport trials for Taiwan’s outlying islands, cargo drone applications and wildlife management solutions. Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs said the collaborations will support overseas expansion of local drone technologies, including flight control systems, aircraft integration and related services.

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Marine

Marine innovation is advancing through cleaner fuels, AI-driven ship operations and automation, with Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea and Indonesia focusing on technologies that improve sustainability, efficiency and resilience in maritime industries.

Australia

Researchers at Australia’s RMIT University are testing a compact robot designed to remove oil from contaminated seawater without using chemical dispersants. The “Electronic Dolphin” uses a water-repelling, oil-attracting filter and onboard pump to collect oil into a storage chamber, with researchers reporting the prototype achieved up to 97% removal efficiency in testing.

💡The robot is designed to operate as part of a fleet of small units that can be deployed across spill areas and recover oil for potential reuse. Researchers are continuing development to improve battery life, storage capacity and filter size before the technology can be considered for large-scale oil spill response.

Hong Kong
Hong Kong has completed its largest green methanol bunkering operation, with 1,000 tonnes of alternative fuel supplied to a Roll-on/Roll-off vessel operated by China Merchants Shenzhen Shipping. The operation used the bunker barge Da Qing 268 and involved Venture Energy, Sinopec (Hong Kong) and Shanghai Shenji Energy.

💡The deployment marks an expansion of green fuel infrastructure in the Greater Bay Area, supporting efforts to develop lower-carbon maritime operations.

Japan-USA

Kawasaki Heavy Industries and NVIDIA have begun a collaboration to develop a next-generation digital shipyard using physical AI and digital twin technologies at Kawasaki’s Sakaide Works in Japan. The project will combine Kawasaki’s shipbuilding data and robotics capabilities with NVIDIA’s AI, simulation and robotics platforms to improve vessel design and construction processes.

💡The companies will focus on AI-enabled robotics, digital twins, process optimization and lifecycle data management for commercial vessels. The initiative aims to address labor shortages in Japan’s shipbuilding sector, increase production efficiency and support future vessel construction, maintenance and operations.

South Korea

Hyundai Motor and Kia’s MobED mobile robot platform has completed an autonomous driving demonstration aboard a working vessel, marking the first such trial conducted on a ship. The test was carried out with Korean Register, HMM, HMM Ocean Service and Goseong Engineering aboard HMM’s multipurpose vessel Hyundai Dubai.

💡The demonstration evaluated whether a land-based autonomous robot could operate in a moving maritime environment, including cargo areas and narrow passageways. MobED successfully performed autonomous navigation tasks in cargo spaces, with further development needed for tighter areas such as engine rooms and confined corridors.

South Korea

Weathernews and HD Hyundai Marine Solution have signed a framework agreement to commercialize and expand deployment of OSR-OW, an AI-based ship route optimization solution. The system combines Weathernews’ weather forecasting and route planning technology with HD Hyundai Marine Solution’s AI vessel performance modeling capabilities.

💡Trials of OSR-OW showed fuel savings of at least 3%, according to the companies. The partners plan to pursue commercial contracts with shipping operators, expand global marketing and deploy the solution across their existing customer base of about 8,000 vessels without requiring additional onboard equipment or software.

South Korea-Indonesia

South Korea and Indonesia will expand cooperation in the marine plant industry through projects focused on resource recycling, carbon reduction technologies and workforce development. Under an implementation agreement, South Korea will lead a demonstration project to convert decommissioned Indonesian marine plants into liquefied natural gas supply facilities, supported by 35 billion won in government funding through 2028.

💡The two countries will also develop training programs for Indonesia’s eco-friendly marine plant service sector, with 4.36 billion won allocated through 2029 under official development assistance projects.

Space

Space activity is advancing across China and India, with developments spanning commercial launch capabilities, human spaceflight preparations, mission support infrastructure and the expansion of private sector participation.

Australia-India

Australia has commissioned a temporary space tracking terminal in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands to support India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. The facility, coordinated by the Australian Space Agency with support from government partners and space company Nova Systems, will provide tracking assistance for four planned ISRO missions, including an upcoming uncrewed test flight.

💡The terminal is part of broader Australia-India space cooperation and highlights Australia’s role in providing mission support infrastructure in the Indo-Pacific region. The tracking system will help monitor spacecraft operations during the Gaganyaan program as India prepares for human spaceflight activities.

China

China has published a national commercial space consortium membership list covering 271 entities across launch services, satellite development, ground systems, data applications, technology innovation and finance. The list, released by a center under the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense, provides insight into companies and sectors receiving recognition within China’s commercial space ecosystem.

💡Members include established launch providers, satellite companies and emerging space firms involved in areas such as direct-to-device connectivity, commercial human spaceflight, orbital computing and reusable spacecraft. The consortium, established in 2025 under the China National Space Administration, is intended to support industry coordination, standards development and cooperation across the commercial space sector.

India

Skyroot Aerospace became the first Indian private company to place a rocket into orbit after its Vikram-1 vehicle completed an inaugural orbital launch from India’s spaceport in Sriharikota. The small-lift rocket reached low Earth orbit during a test mission carrying six payloads, including scientific instruments, satellites and demonstration items.

💡The launch advances Skyroot’s plan to provide dedicated small-satellite missions through a commercial service model aimed at reducing waiting times for orbital access. The company, which is developing rockets for global customers, said it plans additional test flights before beginning commercial operations.

India

India’s space agency ISRO has completed three major qualification tests for crew module systems of the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, covering flotation, module separation and structural loads. The tests evaluated the Crew Module Up-righting System, the Crew Module-Service Module Connect Disconnect System and the structure’s ability to withstand apex cover separation forces.

💡ISRO said the tests validated key safety and performance requirements, including post-splashdown flotation deployment, clean separation of crew and service module interfaces, and structural integrity during parachute cover separation. The results support further preparations for the crewed mission.

India

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan said the agency plans at least seven launches during the 2026-27 financial year, with the next mission expected within two months. The planned missions include the first uncrewed test flight of the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program and multiple satellite launches.

💡Narayanan also said ISRO aims to commission its second launch complex at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu within six months to support small satellite missions. He noted the growth of India’s private space sector since the 2020 reforms, with more than 400 space startups now operating compared with one at the time of the policy changes.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Summary

Financing & Investments: NextDC Secures $2.3B Debt Financing; Lynas and JS Link Partner on Rare Earth Magnet Plant; PingPong Gains Singapore FX Derivatives Approval; Singapore Proposes Faster Fund Approval Framework; Qashier Raises $6.1M Series A+ Funding; ESR and Mitsubishi Develop Jakarta Industrial Facilities; LG Innotek Plans $1B Vietnam Packaging Plant; and Thailand Approves $2B Investment Projects

Environmental Sustainability: Vena Energy Secures $1.4B Green Financing; Hong Kong Launches Carbon Market Platform; Bali Selected for Waste-to-Energy Project; Timah Partners Targets Waste Services Sector; Singapore-Indonesia Advance Clean Power Trade; and Vietnam Port Earns Smart Green Recognition

Aviation: Embraer Expands India Aircraft Certification; ASEAN-China Boosts Air Connectivity Cooperation; Pertamina and Boeing Develop SAF Partnership; India Expands Regional Aviation Program; Typhoon Bavi Disrupts East Asian Flights; and Vietjet Eyes Australian Domestic Market

Advanced Air Mobility: Skyportz Maps Shenzhen Vertiport Demand; DJI Tests High-Altitude Drone Operations; SkyDrive Explores Japan eVTOL Operations; and Merlin Labs Targets Autonomous Flight Launch

Marine: SeaBird Wins India Seismic Survey Contract; PIL Launches LNG Dual-Fuel Fleet Renewal; Marco Polo Expands Offshore Wind Vessel Operations; HD Hyundai Develops AI Shipping Optimization; and Los Angeles, Shenzhen Strengthen Port Cooperation

Space: China Achieves Reusable Rocket Recovery Milestone; Tianwen-2 Begins Asteroid Exploration Mission; Japan Tests Reusable Rocket Prototype; Japan and Singapore Expand Space Cooperation; and South Korea Launches Agricultural Observation Satellite

Financing & Investments

Australia and Southeast Asia saw continued capital deployment across digital infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, fintech, logistics and energy, with major investments focused on scaling data centers, semiconductor supply chains, industrial capacity and financial market access.

Australia

Australian data center developer NextDC has secured an additional AU$500 million in senior debt facilities, increasing the total size of the new financing to AU$2.3 billion after announcing AU$1.8 billion in commitments earlier. The company said total available senior debt facilities will increase to AU$8.7 billion upon financial close, with proceeds to fund capital expenditure, data center developments and general corporate purposes.

💡The financing follows a 250 MW increase in contracted utilization to 667 MW in the latest quarter. The facilities are expected to close in mid-July.

Australia, South Korea & Malaysia

Australia’s Lynas Rare Earths and South Korea’s JS Link will jointly develop a rare earth permanent magnet factory in Kuantan, Malaysia, under a long-term partnership agreement. The facility will have annual production capacity of 3,000 tonnes of neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) permanent magnets and is expected to create up to 400 jobs.

💡Lynas will invest about A$50 million in JS Link and supply rare earth materials to its South Korean and Malaysian magnet facilities under an exclusive supply agreement through 2038. The partnership aims to expand rare earth magnet supply chains outside China for automotive, wind energy and electronics industries.

China-Singapore

Chinese cross-border payment provider PingPong has received in-principle approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore for a Capital Markets Services license. Once issued, the license will allow PingPong’s subsidiary Mana Markets (SG) to offer eligible Singapore-based clients over-the-counter foreign exchange derivatives products.

💡The approval will expand PingPong’s existing payment services in Singapore by enabling clients to hedge against foreign exchange volatility. The company operates in Singapore through its licensed Major Payment Institution, Mana Payment (Singapore).

Singapore

The Monetary Authority of Singapore has proposed changes to its Code on Collective Investment Schemes to speed up the approval of new retail fund products while maintaining investor protection. The proposals include a new Alternative Funds Appendix to provide a regulatory framework for innovative fund structures, with tailored safeguards and disclosure requirements, while retaining existing standards covering areas such as asset safeguarding, liquidity management, governance and fair dealing.

💡The regulator said it expects to take about three months to establish safeguards for most new categories of fund products, after which similar funds meeting the requirements could be approved within three weeks. The measures are intended to support product innovation, broaden investor choice and provide greater regulatory clarity for fund managers, with the consultation seeking feedback from industry participants and other stakeholders.

Singapore

Singapore-based fintech Qashier has raised $6.125 million in a Series A+ funding round, comprising equity and debt, to expand its merchant operating system and product offerings across Southeast Asia.

💡The company said the funding will support growth initiatives, including payment capabilities, embedded financial services and artificial intelligence-driven tools. It will also focus on serving larger multi-outlet businesses and preparing for a future Series B funding round.

Singapore-Indonesia

Singapore-based real asset manager ESR and Mitsubishi Corporation subsidiary PT MC Urban Development Indonesia have agreed to jointly develop two logistics and industrial facilities in Greater Jakarta with a combined expected asset value of more than $80 million. The Grade A facilities in Karawang and Cikarang are scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2027.

💡The projects will add more than 111,000 square meters of leasable space across the two industrial hubs and will target logistics, manufacturing and e-commerce tenants. The developments will include sustainability features, modern safety standards and designs aligned with institutional-grade requirements.

South Korea-Vietnam

LG Innotek will begin construction of a $1 billion semiconductor substrate packaging plant in Hai Phong, Vietnam, in the third quarter of 2026. The facility, located in the Nam Dinh Vu Industrial Zone, will produce RF-SiP, FC-CSP and FC-BGA semiconductor substrates, with trial operations expected in the third quarter of 2027 and mass production targeted for the third quarter of 2028.

💡The plant will serve as LG Innotek’s production base for general-purpose semiconductor substrates, while its South Korean Gumi facility focuses on advanced technology development and high-value products. The expansion comes as demand rises for semiconductor packaging solutions used in 5G, AI and advanced computing applications.

Thailand

Thailand approved nine investment projects worth a combined $1.99 billion covering artificial intelligence, advanced electronics, aviation, renewable energy and food production, the Board of Investment said. The approvals include investments by Japan’s Datasection, South Korea’s Doosan Electro-Materials, Taiwan Union Technology, Switzerland’s Nestlé, Thai Airways International and Lomrak Green Energy.

💡Nestlé will invest $688.7 million to expand coffee production, while Thai Airways received approval for $430.2 million to lease eight passenger aircraft. Datasection will invest $235.2 million in GPU server infrastructure, and Lomrak Green Energy will develop two wind power projects with a combined capacity of 120 MW.

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Environmental Sustainability

Sustainability investment across Asia-Pacific is increasingly focused on scaling renewable energy, carbon market infrastructure, waste management solutions and cross-border clean power systems, with governments and investors building platforms to support long-term decarbonization goals.

Australia

Vena Energy has secured about A$1.4 billion in green financing for solar and battery storage assets across Australia. The financing covers operational and under-construction projects in South Australia, Queensland and New South Wales, including solar capacity and battery systems.

💡The assets are expected to supply renewable power to about 198,000 households and avoid more than 1 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually. The financing supports Vena Energy’s expansion of integrated solar and storage infrastructure as Australia increases renewable energy capacity.

Hong Kong and Mainland China

The Global Carbon Council (GCC) has signed a strategic partnership with CGS International Holdings and Verdana HK to establish a Hong Kong-based carbon register and carbon finance platform for GCC-approved projects in China and the Hong Kong region. The initiative aims to strengthen carbon market infrastructure, improve access to climate finance and support future implementation of Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement.

💡Under the agreement, GCC will provide its carbon standard, governance framework and digital carbon market infrastructure, while CGS International will support investor engagement and fundraising. Verdana HK will operate the carbon register and related services, including project onboarding, carbon credit transactions and registry management.

Indonesia

State investment agency Danantara Indonesia has selected Bali as the first site for a waste-to-energy plant as it expands investments in sustainable infrastructure and clean energy. The project will use moving grate incinerator technology and is designed to meet European emissions standards through a multi-stage air pollution control system, with the facility expected to reduce emissions from waste disposal and support Indonesia’s efforts to improve waste management.

💡The project includes a power purchase agreement with state utility PT PLN to supply electricity to the national grid. Danantara said permitting, site preparation and development work are underway, with the first batch of waste-to-energy projects designated as National Strategic Projects.

Singapore

Singapore-based Timah Partners has launched a platform to invest in specialized waste management companies, starting with an agreement to acquire an unnamed operator. The platform will focus on essential environmental services including waste collection, sanitation, drainage and related maintenance businesses.

💡Timah said the sector is largely made up of small operators, many of which face ownership transition issues as founders retire. The company plans to build a long-term portfolio of businesses in the sector, providing capital and operational support to expand their operations.

Singapore-Indonesia

Singapore and Indonesia are exploring cooperation on the offtake of imported low-carbon electricity as both countries seek to expand cross-border electricity trade. Indonesia’s Danantara Indonesia, through Danantara Investment Management, has signed memoranda of understanding with Keppel Electric and Sembcorp Utilities to assess potential electricity supply arrangements.

💡Danantara also signed an agreement with Singapore Energy Interconnections to support information-sharing on cross-border interconnector development. The two countries aim to advance projects totaling 3.4 GW or more by 2035, supported by regulatory frameworks and a cross-border renewable energy certificate framework.

Vietnam

Long An International Port in Vietnam’s southern province of Tây Ninh has received Frost & Sullivan’s “Smart Green Port Company of the Year 2026” award, becoming the first Vietnamese company to win the recognition under the Asia-Pacific Best Practices Awards. The award highlights the port’s digital transformation and sustainability efforts.

💡The company has integrated port operations through digital platforms including SAP S/4HANA, a Terminal Operating System, E-Port and a Warehouse Management System. It has also deployed green initiatives such as solar power systems, electric cargo-handling equipment and energy-saving technologies.

Aviation

Asia-Pacific aviation developments are centered on expanding regional connectivity, improving fleet access, advancing sustainable aviation fuels and upgrading infrastructure, while weather disruptions highlight ongoing operational risks across the sector.

Brazil-India

Brazil’s Embraer has received type certification from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation for its E190, E195 and E195-E2 aircraft variants, expanding the manufacturer’s presence in the Indian market. The E175 variant was previously certified and is already operated by Indian regional carrier Star Air.

💡The certification allows Indian airlines to operate additional Embraer E-Jets models, including the E195-E2, which the company positions as a fuel-efficient small narrowbody aircraft. Embraer said it has nearly 50 aircraft across commercial, defense and business aviation sectors currently operating in India.

Indonesia

Indonesia has pledged to strengthen air connectivity between ASEAN and China to support regional trade, tourism and aviation growth. The commitment was made during the 17th ASEAN-China Working Group on Regional Air Services Arrangements meeting held in Yogyakarta.

💡The meeting discussed measures to improve air transport cooperation, including cargo services, airport slot allocation, aviation safety, visa processes and maintenance support. Participants also agreed on measures including reactivating Makassar as a point under the ASEAN-China Air Transport Agreement and expanding cargo connectivity through additional Chinese hubs.

Indonesia-USA

Indonesia’s Pertamina and Boeing have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the development of a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) ecosystem in Indonesia as part of efforts to reduce aviation emissions. The partnership will focus on identifying feedstock sources, advancing SAF technologies and supporting policies for wider adoption.

💡The companies said the collaboration aims to support Indonesia’s transition toward net-zero emissions and develop a competitive SAF industry. Pertamina has already launched SAF initiatives, including production and certification efforts and the development of a biorefinery project using waste-based feedstocks.

India

India has launched the next phase of its regional connectivity program, UDAN, with a new 10-year plan aimed at expanding aviation access and infrastructure. The modified UDAN scheme carries an investment outlay of about ₹29,000 crore and includes development of 100 aerodromes, 200 helipads, regional airport support and viability funding for airlines.

💡Prime Minister Narendra Modi also inaugurated a new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport, built at a cost of ₹480 crore. The facility can handle 1,500 passengers during peak hours and 20 lakh passengers annually, with the government saying the upgrades will support tourism, trade and regional economic growth.

East Asia

Typhoon Bavi is moving across East Asia, prompting flight cancellations, evacuations and emergency preparations in Japan, Taiwan and China. The storm is expected to pass near Japan’s Sakishima Islands in Okinawa Prefecture with strong winds and heavy rainfall, while nearly 900 buildings in Okinawa have reported power outages.

💡Taiwan has evacuated more than 2,000 residents and placed military personnel on standby as the storm threatens heavy rain and flooding. Bavi is forecast to reach eastern China near Wenzhou after passing Japan and Taiwan, with authorities preparing for strong winds and rainfall.

Vietnam

Vietnamese low-cost carrier Vietjet has applied for approval to launch domestic operations in Australia, according to local media reports. The airline has reportedly sought an air operator’s certificate and permission to establish a local business, with plans to base up to 10 Boeing 737 aircraft in Australia.

💡If approved, Vietjet would become the first international airline in nearly two decades to establish a domestic Australian operation. The carrier currently operates international flights between Vietnam and Australian cities including Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane.

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Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility developments are shifting from technology trials toward infrastructure planning, operational partnerships and certification pathways, with companies targeting commercial eVTOL services, autonomous aviation and specialized drone applications.

Australia-China

Australia-based Skyportz’s Aeroberm unit has released a market study on vertiport infrastructure opportunities in Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area as the region expands its low-altitude economy initiatives. The report was unveiled at LEAP East 2026 in Hong Kong, amid increasing eVTOL activity and trial programs in the region.

💡The study forecasts demand for 500–1,000 modular passenger vertipads in Shenzhen by 2030, growing to up to 8,000 by 2045. While Shenzhen has developed more than 1,200 low-altitude takeoff and landing sites, most currently support drone operations. Skyportz said purpose-built passenger vertiports will be required to enable future eVTOL air taxi services.

China

DJI has completed high-altitude drone trials on Mount Qomolangma (Mount Everest), testing its FlyCart 100 delivery drone, Matrice 4E mapping drone and newly released EV50 eVTOL platform for logistics, glacier mapping and atmospheric research. The FlyCart 100 transported supplies and waste between Base Camp and Camp 1 on Nepal’s South Slope, carrying payloads of up to 47 kg at altitudes exceeding 6,300 meters.

💡The Matrice 4E mapped more than 3 square kilometers of the Khumbu Icefall at an altitude of 6,450 meters to support route planning and hazard monitoring, while the EV50 conducted atmospheric research flights on the mountain’s North Slope in China. DJI said the tests aim to expand drone applications in high-altitude logistics, safety operations and climate research.

Japan

SkyDrive has signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan Biz Aviation (JBZ) to explore operational frameworks for its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Japan. Under the agreement, the companies will discuss aircraft ownership and operating models, the roles of SkyDrive, JBZ and aircraft buyers, as well as a roadmap for commercial service launch.

💡SkyDrive said the partnership aims to support customers that purchase its aircraft but do not hold air operator certificates by leveraging JBZ’s aircraft operations and maintenance experience.

USA-New Zealand

Merlin Labs plans to begin commercial autonomous flight operations in 2027 from its test facility in New Zealand, as the company works toward certification in New Zealand and the United States. The company aims to become the first operator of traditionally crewed fixed-wing aircraft to conduct autonomous commercial revenue flights.

💡Merlin said it has completed hundreds of autonomous test flights using its AI-powered Merlin Pilot system and is advancing through certification with New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. The company is developing the technology as a multi-aircraft platform for commercial and defense applications.

Marine

Marine sector activity is focused on fleet modernization, digital optimization and lower-emission operations, with shipping companies and ports investing in cleaner vessels, AI-driven efficiency tools and offshore wind support infrastructure.

Cyprus-India

SeaBird Exploration, a subsidiary of SED Energy Holdings, has secured a contract for a 2D seismic survey offshore India.The company will deploy Eagle Explorer for the project, with mobilization expected in mid-July and vessel utilization extending through the first half of 2027.

💡The contract strengthens SeaBird’s presence in the Indian market and adds visibility to its 2027 backlog.

Singapore

Singapore-based ocean carrier Pacific International Lines (PIL) has named its two new 13,000 TEU container vessels, Kota Elok and Kota Elan, marking the first deliveries under its fleet renewal program for a 13-ship series of ultra-large neo-Panamax vessels. The ships will be deployed on PIL’s Asia-South America trade route.

💡The vessels are equipped with LNG dual-fuel propulsion systems and digital monitoring technologies, including IoT sensors and AI-based analytics, to improve fuel efficiency and operational performance. PIL said the new ships support its fleet modernization strategy and efforts to reduce emissions as it targets net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Singapore

Singapore’s Marco Polo Marine has signed a framework agreement with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy to deploy two commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs) for offshore wind projects in the Asia-Pacific region. The agreement, through Marco Polo’s PKR Offshore subsidiary, will initially cover projects in Taiwan, with potential opportunities in Japan and South Korea.

The vessels are scheduled to begin operations from 2029, with provisions for an earlier start and contract extensions. They will feature Siemens Energy’s BlueDrive PlusC hybrid propulsion technology. Marco Polo Marine currently operates the CSOV MP Wind Archer in Taiwan and is building a second vessel at its Batam shipyard, targeted for delivery in 2028.

South Korea & Japan

South Korea’s HD Hyundai Marine Solution has partnered with Japan’s Weathernews to commercialize an AI-powered shipping route optimization solution. The integrated platform combines Weathernews’ meteorological data with AI technology to optimize vessel routes and has shown potential to reduce fuel consumption by at least 3% in pilot projects.

💡The companies plan to deploy the solution across about 8,000 vessels currently using their services and jointly market it to global customers. HD Hyundai Marine Solution said the system can be applied to existing vessels without additional hardware or software installations.

USA-China

The Port of Los Angeles has signed a memorandum of understanding with Shenzhen Port Group and Yantian International Container Terminals to expand cooperation on port operations, green technologies and supply chain development. The agreement formalizes a sister port relationship with Shenzhen, one of the world’s largest port hubs.

💡The partnership will focus on technical exchanges, clean energy initiatives, logistics optimization and maritime innovation. The Port of Los Angeles said the agreement supports broader efforts to advance lower-emission shipping and strengthen global supply chain resilience.

Space

Marine sector activity is focused on fleet modernization, digital optimization and lower-emission operations, with shipping companies and ports investing in cleaner vessels, AI-driven efficiency tools and offshore wind support infrastructure.

China

China has successfully recovered a rocket booster during an orbital launch for the first time, with the Long March 10B’s first stage landing on a sea-based recovery platform using a net system. The mission, launched from the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site, also successfully placed a satellite into orbit and marked a milestone in China’s development of reusable launch technology.

💡The Long March 10B is designed to carry up to 16 tonnes of payload to low Earth orbit in reusable configuration. China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation said the recovered booster is planned for reuse by the end of the year as China seeks to reduce launch costs and expand its commercial space capabilities.

China

China’s Tianwen-2 probe has reached a position about 20 kilometers from asteroid 2016HO3, beginning scientific exploration after traveling about 1 billion kilometers over roughly 400 days, the China National Space Administration said. The mission is China’s first asteroid sample-return project and aims to collect material from 2016HO3 before later exploring the main-belt comet 311P.

💡The probe has captured images of the asteroid and used navigation data to improve its position accuracy ahead of further observations. Tianwen-2 is equipped with multiple scientific instruments and a sampling system designed for different surface conditions, with sample collection planned after detailed studies of the asteroid’s structure and composition.

Japan

Japan’s space agency has successfully tested a prototype reusable rocket in Akita Prefecture as part of efforts to develop lower-cost launch technology. The RV-X rocket completed a 40-second flight, reaching a maximum altitude of about 11 meters before landing successfully.

💡The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency will use data from the test to support development of the Callisto reusable vehicle with France and Germany. Japan is pursuing reusable rocket technology to reduce launch costs and increase satellite deployment capacity.

Japan-Singapore

Japan and Singapore have signed a space cooperation agreement to expand collaboration in areas including quantum satellite communications and other advanced space technologies. The agreement, signed between the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Singapore’s National Space Agency, marks the first bilateral space agreement for the newly established agency.

💡The pact establishes a framework for information sharing and joint initiatives, with Singapore becoming the third international partner in JAXA’s Co-funded Business Promotion Framework. The agreement builds on existing cooperation in satellite launches, space education and disaster monitoring.

South Korea

South Korea’s next-generation medium-sized satellite No. 4 (CAS500-4) has completed initial communication checks after launch and entered its target sun-synchronous orbit. The satellite was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in the United States.

💡The CAS500-4 is South Korea’s first dedicated agricultural and forestry observation satellite and will monitor crop conditions and forest resources using a wide-area observation camera. The satellite will undergo an initial operational phase before beginning full mission operations in the first half of 2027.

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**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

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**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: OMOWAY Closes Series A Financing; Kling AI Raises $2 Billion at $15 Billion Valuation; Schneider Electric and Seraya Launch Faraday Energy; MAS Unveils SAFR Framework for Agentic Finance; dConstruct Technologies Raises $125 Million Series A; Amity Robotics Secures $7 Million Seed Round; Wesco Acquires Newark Engineering for S$175 Million; Vietnam Opens Fourth Net Zero Challenge; and G-Group Invests $300 Million in AI Data Center Project

Environmental Sustainability: Cyan Ventures Launches Green Fuels Accelerator in Australia; Zenobē Secures Financing for Zero-Emission Transport in Australia and New Zealand; ACME Signs $1 Billion Green Methanol Deal With MGC; India and Japan Plan 1,000-Plant Biogas Initiative; Sarawak Explores Algae-Based SAF Production; GuarantCo Backs Vietnam Solar Expansion With Green Bond Guarantee; and KBR Selected for Singapore SAF Project

Aviation: SCTI Launches Automated Flight Delay Benefit in Australia and New Zealand; Cambodia and US Sign Open Skies Agreement; COMAC Showcases C909 Medical Jet in Central Asia; Air China and Singapore Airlines Expand Partnership; and Thailand Tightens Aviation Security Measures

Advanced Air Mobility: MD Aircraft Secures Order for Up to 40 MDA1 eViator Aircraft; Sarla Aviation Completes Sylla 1.0 Flight Tests; The ePlane Company Unveils Full-Scale e200X Prototype; SkyDrive Surpasses 300 SD-05 Test Flights; Toyota and Joby Expand eVTOL Manufacturing Partnership

Marine: China’s Largest Methanol Container Ship Begins Commercial Service; China Completes Trials for 10,000-Tonne Electric Bulk Carrier; China Launches First Zero-Carbon River–Sea Shipping Route; Kelsian Wins Auckland Ferry Contract and Enters New Zealand Market; Maersk Orders India-Made Containers to Support Localization; and Lightstorm Consortium to Build India–Southeast Asia Subsea Cable

Space: China Reports Record In-Space Propulsion Test for Satellite Engine; China Develops Space–Ground Asteroid Early-Warning System; Skyroot Sets Launch Window for Vikram-1 Orbital Rocket; JAXA and BULL Study Rocket Debris Mitigation System; New Zealand Advances TPA-2 Rideshare Satellite Mission; and South Korea Prepares Nuri Rocket Launch

Financing & Investments

Investment activity remains concentrated in AI, robotics, energy infrastructure and data centers across Asia, while regulators and industry participants are also advancing frameworks to support the adoption and scaling of emerging technologies.

China

OMOWAY has completed its Series A and Series A+ financing rounds, raising tens of millions of US dollars with participation from Lochpine Capital, Monolith, CICC Capital and existing backers including ZhenFund. Lochpine Capital is backed by battery manufacturer CATL, while other strategic investors include funds linked to XPeng and BYD.

💡The company is developing intelligent two-wheel mobility systems built on its proprietary OMO-ROBOT architecture, with its OMO-X electric motorcycle already in commercial rollout in Indonesia. OMOWAY reported strong early demand and said it plans to expand into Thailand, Singapore and Europe as it scales its self-balancing motorcycle and robotics platform.

Hong Kong-Mainland China

Hong Kong-listed Kuaishou Technology said Alibaba, Baidu and Tencent participated in a $2 billion funding round for its spun-off artificial intelligence unit, Kling AI, valuing the company at about $15 billion before the investment. The round could expand to $3 billion, implying a post-money valuation of roughly $18 billion and reducing Kuaishou’s stake to around 68%.

💡Kling AI develops generative AI tools for video creation and has become one of Kuaishou’s fastest-growing businesses, with annual recurring revenue reaching about $500 million in March from $300 million in January. The new funding is expected to support product development and overseas expansion as competition intensifies in the AI-generated video market.

Singapore-Global

Schneider Electric and Singapore-based infrastructure investor Seraya Partners have launched Faraday Energy, an energy infrastructure platform focused on distributed and customer-sited projects across Asia Pacific and selected international markets. Seraya plans to commit up to $500 million in equity capital to support the platform’s expansion.

💡Faraday will develop, finance, own and operate energy assets for commercial and industrial customers, grid operators and data centers under long-term, OpEx-based contracts. Schneider Electric will serve as the principal technology partner, while Seraya will oversee capitalization and platform development.

Singapore

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), alongside financial institutions and fintech firms, has released a white paper outlining safeguards for artificial intelligence agents in financial services. Titled Safeguards for Agentic Finance at Runtime (SAFR), the framework was developed under MAS’ BuildFin.ai initiative to help ensure AI agents operate within predefined mandates, policies and risk limits as they increasingly perform tasks autonomously.

💡SAFR introduces governance checkpoints to verify and record AI agents’ actions before execution, supporting policy-bound execution, real-time validation, auditability and interoperability. The framework has been tested across use cases including payments, treasury operations, wealth management and client engagement. MAS said the Future of Finance Institute will support adoption through industry pilots and sandbox experiments, while BuildFin.ai remains open to new participants to help refine the framework.

Singapore

Singapore-based dConstruct Technologies has raised $125 million in a Series A funding round, emerging as the top performer from the first cohort of Singapore’s RoboNexus accelerator under the National Robotics Program.

💡The company develops autonomous robotics powered by its proprietary d.ASH platform for applications in construction, security, inspection and logistics, and is building a 42,000-square-metre global headquarters at Punggol Digital District scheduled for completion in 2026.

Thailand

Amity Robotics has raised US$7 million in a seed round combining equity and debt financing, led by East Ventures with participation from 500 Global and debt funding from AlteriQ Global. The company develops physical AI systems for commercial environments, and said the capital will support expansion of its robotics platform and product rollout.

💡Its core product, ARC Base, is an AI concierge kiosk deployed across more than 30 properties in Asia and the Middle East, with early expansion into Europe planned. The system is used in malls and hotels operated by groups including IHG, Accor and Shangri-La, while the company is also developing ARC Move, a mobile robot designed for in-person guidance and assistance in large venues.

US-Singapore

US-based Wesco International has completed its acquisition of Singapore-headquartered Newark Engineering Group for S$175 million ($136 million), strengthening its presence in the data center sector in Southeast Asia. Newark provides engineered cooling, thermal management and lifecycle services for data centers, with operations in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia and reported revenue of $60 million in 2025.

💡Wesco said the acquisition expands its capabilities in engineered cooling and mission-critical infrastructure services, while providing a platform for growth in Southeast Asia’s data center market.

Vietnam

Vietnam’s Net Zero Challenge has opened applications for its fourth edition, offering a prize pool of more than VND21 billion ($800,000) for climate technology startups. Applications will run from July 1 to August 31, with winners receiving VND15 billion in non-equity grants and a further VND6 billion in investment opportunities and partner support.

💡Co-organized by Touchstone Partners and Temasek Foundation, the competition covers renewable energy and carbon removal, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy solutions. Organizers said the program aims to help climate technologies pilot and scale in Vietnam by connecting innovators with investors, industry partners and public sector stakeholders.

Vietnam

Vietnam’s G-Group Technology Corporation will invest VND7.6 trillion ($300 million) to develop G-Campus Hoa Lac, a high-tech complex and Tier III data center focused on artificial intelligence and high-performance computing in Hanoi. The project, spanning more than 38,000 square meters, will include research facilities and a data center with an initial IT load of 20 MW, expandable to 30 MW.

💡G-Group received an investment certificate for the project last week and signed a cooperation agreement with the Hanoi People’s Committee and OTECH, part of Oman’s Omantel Group, to explore AI data center models, cloud infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives.

Environmental Sustainability

Activity in the sector is increasingly focused on scaling low-carbon fuels, transport electrification and renewable energy infrastructure through long-term offtake agreements, blended financing mechanisms and cross-border partnerships.

Australia

Cyan Ventures has launched a Green Fuels Accelerator funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), with support from Qantas and Boeing, to advance low-carbon liquid fuel production in Australia. The program will support seven selected projects to progress toward financial close and commercial-scale output.

💡The accelerator provides regulatory, technical, commercial, and financing support to reduce project risk and build domestic fuel supply, including sustainable aviation fuel. Industry partners including Qantas, Boeing, and Climate Tech Partners will provide advisory input, as Australia seeks to scale local production and reduce reliance on imported fuels.

Australia & New Zealand

Zenobē, a fleet electrification and battery storage specialist, has closed a financing platform to support zero-emission transport projects across Australia and New Zealand. The debt facility, backed by a syndicate of global banks, will fund electrification of public transport networks and commercial vehicle fleets.

💡The structure integrates depot electrification, battery leasing, replacement services and operational optimization into a single model, removing upfront capital costs for operator.

India-Japan

ACME Green Molecules has signed a binding long-term agreement with Japan’s Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company (MGC) to supply 100,000 tonnes of green methanol annually, in a deal valued at about US$1 billion. The agreement is positioned as the first RFNBO-compliant green marine fuel collaboration involving an Indian company.

💡The offtake will support shipping decarbonization, with green methanol emerging as an alternative to conventional marine fuels due to lower lifecycle emissions and compatibility with existing infrastructure. The project will be based in Paradip, Odisha, and expands ACME’s green ammonia and clean fuels portfolio aimed at global export markets.

India-Japan

India and Japan are preparing to agree on a strategic biogas initiative to build 1,000 production plants across India and support up to 2.5 million biogas-powered vehicles supplied by Japanese automakers. The deal is expected to be formalized at a summit between Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

💡The program would convert agricultural and livestock waste, including cattle manure, sugarcane, and rice straw, into biogas for use in compressed natural gas vehicles. It includes initial funding of about ¥400 billion in yen loans for 500 plants, aiming to expand India’s CNG vehicle market while boosting energy self-sufficiency and creating export opportunities for Japan’s auto industry.

Malaysia

Sustainable aviation fuel made from algae in Gedong could potentially power AirBorneo flights in the future, Sarawak Premier Abang Johari said. He noted that algae can be processed into oil suitable for jet fuel and described it as part of emerging renewable energy efforts in the region.

💡He said the state is exploring such technologies and the possibility of producing aviation fuel locally in Borneo. Separately, he also urged PETROS to assess potential natural gas resources in Gedong following reported gas emissions during construction works, noting similar findings in nearby areas such as Lawas.

Singapore-Vietnam

GuarantCo, part of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), has provided a payment default guarantee for VND 792 billion (about US$30 million) in green bonds issued by Verdant Energy’s Vietnam commercial and industrial solar platform. Proceeds will fund 58 MW of additional rooftop solar projects, which are projected to avoid roughly 31,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions.

💡Verdant Energy, a Singapore-based renewables developer backed by A.P. Moller Capital, said the issuance is the first certified green C&I solar bond in Vietnam and its first capital markets transaction globally. The 15-year structure is the longest of its kind in the market, with initial issuance fully subscribed by Vietnamese institutional investors, mainly insurers, and aligned with Vietnam’s Power Development Plan VIII and 2050 net-zero target.

USA-Singapore

KBR has been selected to provide technology licensing and front-end engineering design (FEED) services for a proposed sustainable aviation fuel plant on Singapore’s Jurong Island, developed by Keppel Ltd. and Aster Chemicals and Energy. The facility is planned to produce up to 100,000 tonnes of SAF annually, subject to final investment decision and regulatory approvals.

💡The project will use KBR’s PureSAF technology, developed with Swedish Biofuels AB, to produce drop-in jet fuel from flexible feedstocks. KBR also signed a memorandum of intent with Keppel to collaborate on wider decarbonization efforts, including waste-to-energy, recycling, biofuels and digital solutions.

Aviation

Recent developments highlight efforts to enhance aviation connectivity, passenger services and operational resilience, alongside increased attention to security and specialized aircraft applications.

Australia & New Zealand

Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI), with Blink, has launched an automated flight delay benefit in Australia and New Zealand. Eligible international policyholders receive support when flights are delayed two hours or more under the TravelCare Delay Assist product, available on policies purchased from 1 July.

💡Registered travelers are automatically notified of qualifying delays and issued an NZ$50 (A$40) digital voucher via SMS or email, redeemable through services like Uber or Woolworths. The feature is designed to provide real-time assistance rather than traditional post-travel claims.

Cambodia-USA

Cambodia and the United States have signed an Open Skies agreement establishing a bilateral air transport framework to liberalize civil aviation ties, expand trade, and enable more flexible passenger and cargo services. The agreement was signed on June 30 in Washington, D.C., by Cambodia’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation and the U.S. Department of State.

💡The pact includes all-cargo seventh-freedom traffic rights, allowing carriers to operate cargo flights between either country and third markets without routing through Cambodia. The deal comes as Cambodia’s air cargo volumes rose 34 percent in early 2026, and follows U.S. development financing support linked to the country’s new Techo International Airport project in Phnom Penh.

China

COMAC has showcased a medical variant of its C909 regional jet in Central Asia for the first time at the 21st Kazakhstan–China Commodity Exhibition in Almaty. The aircraft, on static display, is configured for emergency medical missions, including patient evacuation, remote medical deployment, and disaster response operations.

💡Based on the standard C909 passenger jet, the medical version features a reconfigurable cabin designed for multiple roles, from air ambulance duties to transport of medical teams and equipment.

China-Singapore

Air China and Singapore Airlines have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand their commercial cooperation, aiming to improve connectivity and offer more travel options between Singapore and China. The agreement includes plans to extend codeshare services, coordinate flight schedules, and explore joint fare products, subject to regulatory approvals.

💡The partnership also outlines deeper integration of frequent flyer programmes, allowing Air China’s PhoenixMiles and Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer members to earn and redeem benefits across both networks.

Thailand

Thailand’s Transport Ministry is stepping up aviation security to tackle drug smuggling risks, ordering agencies to strengthen data sharing and use modern screening technology to eliminate gaps in airport procedures. Officials also said airline crew are currently screened under the same framework as passengers, and this approach is under review as part of wider reforms.

💡The move follows the arrest of a Thai Airways employee in Australia on drug-smuggling allegations. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has brought together airlines, customs, narcotics control officials and airport operators to agree on immediate and longer-term countermeasures, including tighter crew checks, stricter baggage controls and tougher penalties for misconduct.

Advanced Air Mobility

AAM developers are progressing toward commercialization through flight testing, prototype completion, production planning and strategic partnerships aimed at supporting future certification and scaled manufacturing.

Germany-South Korea

MD Aircraft has signed a letter of intent with South Korea-based Solyu Company for up to 40 MDA1 eViator electric regional aircraft, including a firm plan for 20 units and options for an additional 20. The aircraft designed to carry nine passengers, targets zero-emission regional travel with short takeoff capability, rapid battery exchange, and lower operating costs.

💡Solyu said the deal aligns with its strategy to expand sustainable aviation across Asia-Pacific, while MD Aircraft highlighted growing demand for electric regional mobility solutions in emerging markets. The MDA1 program is currently targeting initial flight tests around 2028, with certification and entry into service expected thereafter.

India

Sarla Aviation has completed flight testing of its Sylla 1.0 eVTOL demonstrator, marking a step toward developing controlled transition between vertical lift and wing-borne flight. The India-based company, founded in 2023 by former Lilium engineers, is building a six-seat electric air taxi aimed at urban and regional mobility.

💡The half-scale prototype logged more than 500 test runs and over 18 flight hours, validating integrated systems including propulsion, batteries, flight controls and airframe performance. Data from the campaign will feed into Sylla 2.0, which will focus on transition flight as Sarla advances toward a certifiable aircraft design.

India

The ePlane Company has completed assembly of its full-scale eVTOL aircraft, the e200X (prototype PT-01), moving the program from design into ground and flight testing. The aircraft is intended for urban air mobility use cases including passenger transport, cargo delivery and emergency medical services.

💡The company said the build marks validation of full system integration, including airframe, propulsion and battery systems, and confirms readiness for ground testing followed by flight trials. Developed and assembled in India with about US$21 million raised to date, the e200X will next undergo structural and systems testing ahead of regulatory certification with India’s DGCA.

Japan

SkyDrive Inc. says its SD-05 eVTOL aircraft has completed 300 test flights over a 20-month campaign running from November 2024 to June 2026, marking a key milestone in its development program. The company said the flights, conducted across multiple test sites in Japan and in more operationally realistic airspace conditions, were used to gather performance data aimed at supporting future commercial operations targeted for around 2028.

Separately, SkyDrive also showcased the SD-05 in Indonesia during a two-day event with Whitesky Aviation in Jakarta, where it presented potential use cases across urban air mobility, mining, and agriculture sectors.

Japan-USA

Toyota Motor and Joby Aviation have agreed to expand their partnership to prepare for commercial production of Joby’s four-seat eVTOL aircraft. The companies said the focus will be on building manufacturing systems aimed at improving productivity, quality and cost ahead of planned series production of the S4 model.

💡Toyota has invested about $900 million in Joby and is supporting development of a production line in Ohio. The partners have also formed a joint venture, Joby Toyota Aero Manufacturing Preparation Company, to advance manufacturing readiness as Joby continues FAA certification and early operational testing.

Marine

Maritime developments are centered on vessel decarbonization, electrified logistics networks, localized manufacturing and digital infrastructure investments to support trade and data connectivity.

China

China’s largest methanol dual-fuel container ship has begun its maiden commercial voyage from Qingdao Port in Shandong province, carrying more than 3,000 TEUs of cargo bound for Northern Europe. The vessel, with a capacity of 24,168 TEUs, is the world’s largest methanol-powered container ship built in China.

💡The ship completed a ship-to-ship bunkering operation of 1,500 tonnes of methanol before departure.

China

China has completed smart navigation trials for what is described as the world’s first 10,000-tonne pure electric inland bulk carrier on the Yangtze River. The vessel is designed for zero-emission cargo transport and can be remotely operated while maintaining stable performance in complex river conditions.

💡The ship features rapid battery-swapping capability and extended endurance to address operational limits of earlier electric inland vessels.

China

China has launched its first zero-carbon river–sea transport route, with a fully electric container vessel completing a maiden voyage from Jiaxing to Ningbo Zhoushan Port in Zhejiang province. The corridor links electric trucking, inland waterways and coastal shipping into a single all-electric logistics chain.

The system spans roughly 330–350 kilometres and moves automotive parts from Geely’s Changxing plant to port via electric trucks and inland vessels before transfer to a 10,000-ton-class electric ship. The route is expected to reduce emissions and logistics costs, with the vessel powered by containerized battery packs and designed for scalable deployment across inland and coastal shipping networks.

Australia-New Zealand

South Australian transport operator Kelsian Group has won a contract from Auckland Transport to run passenger ferry services in Auckland, New Zealand, expected to generate about $83 million in revenue over seven years from July 1 next year. The company said the deal marks its first entry into the New Zealand market.

💡Kelsian also acquired Auckland-based Belaire Ferries for more than $7 million as part of the expansion. It will operate and maintain six vessels initially, with plans to introduce five new ferries over the contract term and reposition vessels from Australia to support the service.

India

Maersk has received its first India-made export-import (EXIM) container and ordered 1,000 more, advancing efforts to localize container manufacturing under India’s maritime and “Make in India” programs. The container was produced in Uttar Pradesh by DCM Shriram Group at a Maersk-linked inland depot.

The company is also in talks with Indian shipyards, including Cochin Shipyard and L&T Shipbuilding, to build smaller vessels such as tugs and feeder ships. Maersk said the initiative supports expansion of domestic container production and shipbuilding capacity, with further orders expected as capabilities scale.

India, Malaysia & Singapore

Singapore-based Lightstorm, Microsoft, Singtel and Tata Communications will jointly build the I-2SEA submarine cable linking India, Malaysia and Singapore, with completion targeted for the fourth quarter of 2029. The 3,600-km system will connect Machilipatnam and South Chennai on India’s east coast with Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, extending access to Lightstorm’s 30,000-km terrestrial network serving Hyderabad, Mumbai and more than 80 data centres nationwide.

💡The cable is designed to support hyperscalers, GPU infrastructure providers and enterprises running AI training and inference workloads across the India-Southeast Asia corridor. Japan’s NEC Corporation will supply the system, while ASEAN Cableship will oversee marine installation. The project includes carrier-neutral landing stations in India and a deep-burial design aimed at improving resilience and uptime.

Space

Space activity is increasingly focused on expanding launch capability, improving orbital sustainability, and developing dual-use monitoring and infrastructure systems for both commercial and planetary defense applications.

China

China has reported a record in-space performance test of a satellite propulsion system, with an engine operating intermittently for a total of 14 hours in orbit. The system produced about 750 newtons of thrust and completed multiple firing cycles during the mission.

💡The engine was used for orbital manoeuvres after launch on a Long March-7A rocket, helping place the satellite into geostationary transfer orbit and refine its final position. Such propulsion systems are used for orbit raising, station-keeping and later repositioning over a satellite’s operational life.

China

China is developing a space–ground integrated asteroid monitoring and early-warning system as part of a proposed planetary defense capability, according to a CNSA-affiliated scientist. The plan is still under feasibility study and aims to combine ground-based telescopes with a space-based satellite constellation for continuous observation.

💡The system would support automated orbit calculation and impact risk assessment once objects are detected, with alerts issued if credible threats emerge. Researchers say the approach is intended to improve detection of near-Earth asteroids, including those approaching from the sunward direction that are difficult to observe from Earth alone.

India

Skyroot Aerospace has announced a launch window for the maiden test flight of its Vikram-1 orbital rocket, scheduled no earlier than July 12 and extending to August 4, subject to final assembly, testing and regulatory clearances. The mission marks the first orbital-class rocket developed by a private Indian company.

💡The test, named Mission Aagaman, will focus on capturing in-flight performance data across all systems to validate vehicle design for future commercial operations. Vikram-1 is designed to carry up to 350 kg to low Earth orbit using carbon-composite structures and in-house propulsion, including 3D-printed engines.

Japan

Japan’s space agency JAXA and BULL Co. have launched a joint study to assess the integration of a post-mission disposal device on the Epsilon S rocket, aimed at reducing orbital debris from upper stages after satellite deployment. The concept focuses on using atmospheric drag to accelerate deorbiting, helping limit the long-term presence of defunct rocket components in space.

💡The work is being carried out under JAXA’s J-SPARC collaboration framework and will focus on defining technical requirements, interfaces, and safety conditions for potential future implementation. Both parties said the effort supports broader goals to improve space sustainability as orbital traffic continues to increase.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s Space Institute has launched development of its TPA-2 satellite mission, set for launch in early 2028,carrying six curated payloads from industry, academia and education. The mission builds on TPA-1 and is designed as a shared “rideshare” platform to provide flight access for local space technologies.

💡The payloads include maritime sensing from Lune Digital, a student-led education experiment, a University of Auckland biological mini-lab, an optical communications beacon, a dragsail deployment system, and a new in-house avionics and payload interface module. The mission received funding from the Kiwi Space Activator programme and aims to expand New Zealand’s CubeSat and space technology capabilities through in-orbit testing.

South Korea

South Korea’s KASA says preparations for the fifth Nuri (KSLV-II) rocket launch in September are on schedule, with final assembly beginning next month and a firm launch date expected in early August. The mission is part of a broader push to expand national launch capability.

💡The agency is also moving ahead with a second space center, with a site selection due this year and construction set for 2028. Upcoming activity includes the CAS500-4 satellite launch on July 9, while the Arirang-6 mission has been delayed to 2027 due to launch schedule changes.

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**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: AllianzGI Closes Asia Pacific Credit Fund III at $744 Million; AMC Robotics Expands Manufacturing Footprint in Vietnam; Singapore Advances Next-Gen Instant Payments; MAS Launches Future of Finance Institute; NUS Deepens Silicon Valley Venture Ties; Lion Group Backs Indonesian Stablecoin Developer; Swedfund Invests in Philippine Growth Capital; Foxconn Expands Investments Across Singapore, India & Mexico; Samsung Affiliates Invest in GRAIL Expansion; and Vietnam Proposes $100 Million National VC Fund

Environmental Sustainability: ICG and Hanwha Partner on Japan Energy Transition Projects; DBS Supports Asia’s Energy Transition Financing Platform; Hyundai Develops Green Hydrogen System for Antarctic Operations; ADB Backs Sri Lanka Rooftop Solar Initiative; Vietnam Eyes SAF Opportunity; and SunAsia and VinEnergo Advance Philippine Floating Solar Projects

Aviation: COMAC Business Jet Enters Commercial Service; HKEX Expands Sustainable Aviation Finance Cooperation; TruAlt Secures Support for SAF Production Facility; India Links Aviation Decarbonization with Fuel Stability Measures; Tokyo Disneyland Waste Oil Supports SAF Production; Idemitsu Advances Wood-Based SAF Supply Chain; and Korean Air Clears Final Hurdle for Asiana Integration

Advanced Air Mobility: Hong Kong Launches eVTOL Regulatory Sandbox; ePlane Completes Full-Scale e200X Assembly; Sarla Aviation and Urban-Air Port Partner on AAM Infrastructure; SkyDrive Advances SD-05 Flight Testing; and Malaysia Develops Low-Altitude Economy Framework

Marine: ASEAN and Norway Expand Blue Economy Cooperation; Shihang Intelligence Secures Major Underwater Robotics Funding; China Unveils LangYa 2.0 Ocean Forecasting AI; Clear Robotics Raises Capital for Autonomous Vessels; and Hanwha Ocean Explores FLNG Partnership in British Columbia

Space: Australia Joins Axiom’s Space Research Alliance; Rocket Lab Launches Synspective’s Tenth SAR Satellite; HKUST Advances Bio-Inspired Space Robotics; Taiwanese Software Goes Live on VERTECS Mission; and Thailand and Japan Deepen LEO Satellite Cooperation

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Financing & Investments

The region is seeing stronger alignment between capital formation and industrial strategy, with funding flowing toward technologies viewed as critical for long-term competitiveness and economic resilience.

Asia-Pacific

Allianz Global Investors announced the first close of its Asia Pacific Secured Lending Fund III at $744 million, targeting private credit investments in middle-market companies across Asia Pacific. The fund allows institutional investors to co-invest alongside AllianzGI in lending opportunities across Southeast Asia, South Asia, Oceania and selected regional markets excluding China.

💡The strategy, managed by AllianzGI’s Asia Private Credit platform, focuses on providing flexible financing to companies with stable cash flows and exposure to sectors such as healthcare, education, digital infrastructure and the energy transition.

China-Vietnam

AMC Robotics Corporation will invest $3.5 million to build and equip a 6,150-square-metre manufacturing facility in Bac Ninh province. The company has signed a lease agreement for the site and plans to use Vietnam as a long-term base for production and regional operations in Southeast Asia.

💡The facility will initially produce AMC Robotics’ NovaArm robotic arm for warehouse sorting and industrial automation, with production targeted for the second half of 2026. The site is also intended to support future manufacturing expansion, including the company’s Kyro quadruped robotic platform.

Singapore

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS) are studying enhancements to Singapore’s instant payments system under PayNow Generation 2 to improve accessibility, efficiency and interoperability.

💡Proposed measures include interoperability between PayNow and NETS QR, QR deep-linking for online payments, larger-value public sector transactions and new capabilities such as request-to-pay, structured data fields, micropayments and expanded cross-border connectivity. MAS and ABS plan to publish an implementation roadmap by end-2026.

Singapore

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) said it will establish a Future of Finance Institute (FFI) to accelerate the adoption of emerging financial technologies and support innovation in the financial sector. Initially focused on artificial intelligence and tokenization, FFI will connect financial and technology ecosystems and provide shared resources to promote broader adoption. MAS said the institute builds on existing initiatives including MindForge AI, PathFin.ai, Project Guardian and Project Orchid.

FFI will work with industry to accelerate the deployment of new technologies while MAS continues to oversee policy and regulation. The institute will serve as a knowledge hub, innovation platform, testing environment and source of implementation toolkits, including compliance tools for tokenized assets and updated AI risk guidance.

💡MAS said FFI will be overseen by a board comprising representatives from MAS, financial institutions, technology firms and academia, with further details to be announced later this year.

Singapore-USA

Singapore US venture capital firms Playground Global and Matter Venture Partners have joined the $117 million NUS VC Program, expanding access to Singapore’s deep tech ecosystem and start-ups in artificial intelligence, biotech, quantum technologies and advanced materials. The partnerships will also provide Singaporean ventures with access to Silicon Valley networks, experience and market opportunities.

💡NUS Enterprise will establish its first overseas outpost at Playground Global’s Silicon Valley facility, giving founders access to laboratories, prototyping capabilities and industry networks to support technology validation and US market entry.

Singapore-Indonesia

Lion Group Holding will invest up to $12 million in Indonesia-based PT Nusantara Bumi Sangkara, a digital finance company developing the rupiah-pegged stablecoin NIDR. The investment will be made through a non-cash transaction involving Lion shares or equity-linked securities under an agreement with Meili Capital Management.

💡Upon completion, Lion Group will hold an indirect 10% economic interest in Nusantara Bumi Sangkara through Meili or its investment vehicle. Lion said the investment supports its digital asset treasury strategy and expands its exposure to stablecoins, digital payments and blockchain infrastructure in Southeast Asia.

Sweden-Philippines

Swedfund has committed $15 million to Navegar Fund III, a private equity fund targeting mid-sized companies in the Philippines. The investment aims to expand access to long-term capital for businesses in sectors including healthcare, food distribution and logistics, supporting growth, formalization and job creation.

💡Managed by Manila-based Navegar, the fund has a target size of $250 million and invests in mid-sized Philippine companies. Swedfund said the investment aligns with its strategy to support inclusive growth, resilient businesses and higher-quality employment in Southeast Asia.

Taiwan

Taiwan’s Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn) will invest $91.6 million in capital increases at subsidiaries in Singapore, India and Mexico, according to filings with the Taiwan Stock Exchange. The investments comprise $26.5 million in JUSDA Singapore, $28.0 million in JUSDA Supply Chain Management Mexico and $37.2 million in Foxconn Hon Hai Technology India Mega Development.

💡The transactions are structured as long-term investments funded through private capital and involve related-party share subscriptions. Foxconn reported record 2025 revenue of NT$8.1 trillion ($254.7 billion), with cloud and networking accounting for 40% of sales.

US-South Korea

US healthcare company GRAIL has raised $110 million in an equity financing from Samsung affiliates, including Samsung C&T Corporation, through the purchase of common stock at $70.05 per share. GRAIL said the investment will support growth initiatives and international expansion.

💡The companies will also collaborate to commercialize GRAIL’s Galleri multi-cancer early detection test in South Korea, with potential expansion into Japan and Singapore, subject to regulatory approvals. GRAIL said the funding will help support regulatory and reimbursement efforts for the test in the United States.

Vietnam

Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology has proposed creating a $100 million National Venture Capital Fund for 2026–2028 to advance commercialization of strategic technologies and support the formation of competitive tech firms. The fund would be initially state-led and structured after Israel’s Yozma model, with plans to gradually attract private capital covering 30%–40% of total funding from 2028 onward.

💡The proposal also outlines governance and regulatory adjustments, including market-based recruitment, greater autonomy for investment decisions, portfolio-level performance evaluation, and legal safeguards for officials managing state-backed venture capital.

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Environmental Sustainability

Energy transition efforts are broadening beyond renewable generation to encompass innovative financing models, hydrogen systems, grid modernization, sustainable fuels, and new deployment pathways tailored to regional decarbonization priorities.

Japan

ICG and Hanwha Energy Corporation Japan have formed a strategic partnership to pursue energy transition and infrastructure investments in Japan. The collaboration, through ICG’s Asia-Pacific Infrastructure strategy, will focus on renewable energy, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and digital infrastructure in one of the region’s largest power markets.

💡The partners will jointly identify and develop projects supporting Japan’s decarbonization efforts, building on ICG’s existing investments in solar and storage platforms.

Singapore

DBS Bank has provided a $210 million senior financing facility to ETAFCo, the investment vehicle under the Energy Transition Acceleration Finance (ETAF) partnership within Singapore’s FAST-P initiative led by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. DBS said the loan is its first to ETAFCo and will support energy transition infrastructure investments, including renewable energy, grid modernization and energy storage across Asia.

💡Managed by Clifford Capital, ETAF uses blended finance to mobilize concessional and private capital for transition projects aimed at reducing reliance on coal-fired power. The facility will initially support “displacement” investments that cut emissions through cleaner energy deployment, with broader efforts under FAST-P focused on scaling capital for Asia’s decarbonization and grid transition needs.

South Korea

Hyundai Motor Group will deploy a green hydrogen energy system at South Korea’s Antarctic research station to reduce reliance on diesel power. The project, backed by a government MOU, will use renewable electricity to produce hydrogen via electrolysis and store it for later use.

💡The stored hydrogen will be converted back into electricity through fuel cells when solar output is low, creating a closed-loop clean energy system.

Sri Lanka

ADB approved a $57.4m package for Sri Lanka’s rooftop solar aggregation and virtual net metering project. It will support utilities to pool power from ~25 MWp of rooftop solar and distribute credits digitally to users, including MSMEs.

💡The project also includes grid digitalization and a social mechanism to lower electricity costs for eligible consumers. Financing combines ADB loans, EU grants, and Japan’s Joint Crediting Mechanism fund, totaling about $80.5m in project costs.

Vietnam

Vietnam has significant potential to develop sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) due to abundant agricultural and biomass feedstock, government officials and industry experts said at a conference in Hanoi. The country is preparing to join the International Civil Aviation Organization’s CORSIA scheme in 2026 as part of its net-zero emissions target for 2050.

💡Officials said Vietnam’s SAF production prospects are supported by large volumes of waste oils, animal fats and agricultural residues, but high production costs remain the main barrier, with SAF currently priced two to four times above conventional jet fuel. They added that policy frameworks, financing mechanisms and regional cooperation will be key to scaling production and reducing costs.

Vietnam-Philippines

SunAsia Energy and Vietnam’s VinEnergo will jointly develop a 422-MWp floating solar portfolio in Pampanga and Negros Occidental in the Philippines, with an estimated investment of $406 million. The projects will use solar-on-water systems that allow continued aquaculture beneath and around installations.

💡The three projects are scheduled for commercial operation between 2027 and 2028 and are expected to generate power for more than 278,000 homes while avoiding about 460,888 tons of carbon emissions annually.

Aviation

Aviation decarbonization is emerging as a central industry theme, with growing momentum behind sustainable aviation fuel production, circular feedstock strategies, green financing, and structural consolidation across the sector.

China

The COMAC Business Jet (CBJ), a derivative of the C909 regional jet, has entered commercial service with its first charter flight from Shanghai Hongqiao to Beijing Capital on June 22. The aircraft, developed by Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China in partnership with Deer Jet, received its validation type certificate in 2021 and seats 12 to 29 passengers depending on configuration.

💡The CBJ is based on the ARJ21-700 airframe and is powered by GE CF34-10A engines, with a range of about 5,000 km. COMAC said the entry into service marks progress in the commercialization of domestically developed civil aircraft and expansion into the business aviation segment.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited has signed two MOUs with Astana International Exchange and the Astana International Financial Centre Authority to strengthen capital markets connectivity between Hong Kong and Central Asia. Under the AIFC Authority agreement, the parties will collaborate on green finance, decarbonization, carbon markets and sustainable aviation projects, including financing frameworks linked to aviation transition infrastructure.

💡A separate MOU with AIX focuses on cross-border listings and debt market connectivity, including dual listings to broaden issuer access across both markets. The agreements also establish closer coordination on market development, with cooperation extending to commodities and energy transition-linked financing, including aviation-related sustainability initiatives.

India

TruAlt Bioenergy Ltd. has received ₹150 crore in financial assistance under India’s PM JI-VAN Yojana for a planned commercial-scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) project. The support, approved by the Centre for High Technology under the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, is intended to partially offset capital costs and improve project viability.

💡The proposed facility will have a production capacity of 100 million litres per year and is positioned to support India’s SAF blending targets and long-term decarbonization goals for aviation.

India

India is advancing a coordinated aviation decarbonization push that links SAF policy with broader fuel-price stabilization.A new ₹100 billion ($1.06 billion) ATF price stabilization fund caps domestic jet fuel at ₹115/liter, aiming to shield airlines from crude volatility while easing operating costs. At the same time, policymakers are integrating surplus ethanol capacity into aviation use cases, with a planned roadmap targeting 5% SAF blending by 2030 and positioning ethanol-derived SAF as a key domestic alternative to imported fossil jet fuel.

💡The strategy is reinforced by large-scale biofuel and SAF pilot projects, including ethanol-to-jet pathways, agricultural residue conversion, and industrial SAF facilities under schemes like PM JI-VAN. India’s feedstock advantage—large volumes of agricultural waste and existing ethanol overcapacity—is being leveraged to scale production, while government-backed projects (such as Indian Oil’s Panipat complex) demonstrate integrated output of ethanol, bio-CNG, and SAF.

Japan

Oriental Land Co. has begun collecting waste cooking oil from Tokyo Disneyland and related facilities for conversion into SAF, in partnership with Japan Airlines. The initiative aims to recycle food waste streams into aviation fuel feedstock and promote awareness of SAF use in commercial aviation.

💡The programme supports SAF production from waste oils as part of broader efforts to reduce lifecycle emissions in aviation. Oriental Land said the project also reflects resource circularity objectives, while Japan Airlines continues to expand SAF procurement and deployment across its operations.

Japan

Idemitsu Kosan is partnering with the MORISORA® project consortium under Morisora Biorefinery LLC to develop a domestic SAF supply chain using wood-derived ethanol as feedstock. The initiative will integrate ethanol (E2G) produced from domestically sourced timber with alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) SAF production being explored by Idemitsu for verification.

💡The companies will jointly assess logistics between biomass production sites and SAF production facilities in Japan, as well as regulatory and commercial frameworks needed for deployment.

South Korea

Korean Air has received final approval from South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to complete its integration with Asiana Airlines, clearing the way for the launch of a combined carrier on Dec. 17. The decision follows an advisory review confirming the merger meets legal requirements after an integration agreement was submitted last month.

💡Approval is conditional on maintaining aviation safety and consumer convenience. Korean Air initiated the acquisition of Asiana in 2020, with the goal of forming one of the world’s largest airlines by fleet size.

Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility development is increasingly shifting from concept validation toward ecosystem readiness, with parallel progress in aircraft testing, vertiport planning, regulatory frameworks, and commercial deployment pathways across Asia.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s Transport and Logistics Bureau and Civil Aviation Department have launched a regulatory sandbox to evaluate eVTOL operations in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area, selecting AutoFlight and EHangfor uncrewed flight trials. The initiative is designed to test operational parameters including airspace use, payload limits, altitude, speed and GNSS navigation reliability.

💡AutoFlight will deploy its V2000CG aircraft, while EHang will use its EH216-S platform. The trials are part of Hong Kong’s broader effort to develop regulatory frameworks for a low-altitude economy and assess the feasibility of commercial eVTOL services in the region.

India

The ePlane Company has completed assembly of its full-scale eVTOL aircraft, the e200X (PT-01), integrating core subsystems into a single airframe ahead of ground testing. The company said the aircraft marks a shift from simulation to physical validation and is designed for passenger air taxi, cargo transport and air ambulance applications.

💡The e200X will undergo structural and systems testing before flight trials and certification with India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation. The aircraft is developed with in-house propulsion, airframe, landing gear and battery systems, and the company plans phased commercial deployment across passenger, cargo and medical use cases following certification milestones.

India-UK
Sarla Aviation and Urban-Air Port have signed an MoU to develop infrastructure and deployment frameworks for advanced air mobility in India. The partnership will focus on integrating Sarla’s Shunya eVTOL platform with Urban-Air Port’s vertiport systems and planning phased network rollout across Indian cities.

💡The collaboration also includes engagement with India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation, site assessments in major urban regions, and development of operational models for commercial eVTOL services. The companies said the effort aims to align aircraft certification timelines with vertiport and regulatory readiness to enable scalable AAM operations.

Japan

SkyDrive Inc. has completed high-speed flight tests of its SD-05 eVTOL aircraft, reaching 100 km/h while validating stability, controllability and propulsion performance. The company said the results confirm alignment between flight data and earlier design and simulation models.

💡SkyDrive said the tests mark progress toward certification and planned commercialization in 2028. The aircraft, based on a compact multicopter design with 12 rotors, is intended for short-hop urban air mobility and will continue expanded flight-envelope testing ahead of regulatory approval.

Malaysia

Malaysia is developing a regulatory framework for a low altitude economy (LAE) covering drones, air taxis and eVTOL aircraft, Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook said. The government aims to support new aviation technologies while maintaining safety oversight, with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia tasked to lead framework development.

💡The initiative builds on existing drone use cases in agriculture, medical delivery and infrastructure monitoring, and outlines potential expansion into passenger eVTOL services and rural air connectivity. The government said the LAE could become a new growth sector spanning logistics, mobility, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing.

Marine

Marine innovation is converging around automation, AI, and industrial-scale infrastructure, as governments and companies invest in resilient ocean economies, autonomous systems, and next-generation maritime capabilities.

ASEAN-Norway

ASEAN and Norway launched a blue economy cooperation project in Jakarta on World Oceans Day 2026, running through 2027. The initiative focuses on sustainable aquaculture and fisheries, and aims to build regional cooperation, close policy gaps, and share best practices.

💡The project will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange between ASEAN members and Norway, supporting innovation in fisheries and food security. It is intended to strengthen the region’s long-term blue economy resilience through research collaboration and policy coordination.

China

Shihang Intelligence, a Chinese ocean robotics company, raised over 1 billion yuan in Series A funding, reportedly one of the largest single rounds in the underwater robotics sector. The company develops autonomous and remotely operated underwater robots used for ship hull cleaning, offshore wind inspection, aquaculture monitoring, and subsea infrastructure maintenance.

💡It combines hardware systems with AI-based control software to improve autonomy in complex underwater environments. The company also reported over 1 billion yuan in orders in the first half of 2026, reflecting demand for industrial underwater services rather than one-off equipment sales.

China

Chinese researchers have released LangYa 2.0, an upgraded ocean forecasting AI developed by the Institute of Oceanology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. It expands from basic ocean variables in version 1.0 to predicting complex marine hazards such as typhoons, storm surges, extreme rainfall, sea ice, and internal waves.

The system uses multiple specialized sub-models trained on ocean–atmosphere data, satellite imagery, and historical events to produce scenario-level forecasts intended for operational use in disaster response, shipping, and polar navigation.

💡Early validation reports, including Arctic sea ice forecasting benchmarks, indicate improved performance over several global models, with outputs designed to be higher-resolution and more decision-focused than traditional physical forecasting systems.

India

Indian maritime technology company Clear Robotics,has raised US$1.75 million in a Pre-Series A round led by Shipsfocus Ventures to support the global expansion of its autonomous vessel business. Existing investors, including Katapult Ocean and SGInnovate, also participated in the financing.

💡The company operates a fleet of 26 all-electric unmanned surface vessels equipped with AI-based navigation and analytics systems for maritime infrastructure applications. The funding will support expansion in Southeast Asia, India and the Middle East, alongside development of larger vessel platforms, automated port surveying capabilities and retrofit technologies for future open-ocean operations.

South Korea-Canada

Hanwha Ocean and Kanata Clean Power signed an MoU to explore cooperation on a proposed $15.7bn floating LNG (FLNG) export project in British Columbia, with potential capacity of up to 12 mtpa.

💡The collaboration covers engineering, construction, operations, LNG shipping, and possible equity participation and offtake arrangements. The project would use modular floating infrastructure near Prince Rupert to supply LNG to Asia-Pacific markets, subject to final approvals and investment decisions.

Space

The Asia-Pacific space sector is increasingly moving beyond launch activities toward building sustained in-orbit capabilities through collaborative efforts in research, satellite constellations, robotics, and commercial low-Earth orbit applications.

Australia

Australia’s ARC Centre of Excellence in Plants for Space and the University of Adelaide have joined Axiom Space’s University Alliance, a global network focused on advancing microgravity research and commercial space applications in low-Earth orbit.

💡The alliance brings together 26 institutions to shape research priorities and support the shift toward commercially operated space stations. The Australian teams will contribute to studies including space-based pharmaceutical production, with an ISS demonstration planned for 2027.

Japan-New Zealand

Rocket Lab successfully launched Synspective’s tenth Earth observation satellite, marking its 12th mission of the year and the 91st Electron launch overall. The mission placed a SAR imaging satellite into a 552 km low Earth orbit from New Zealand, continuing a 100% success record for Synspective deployments.

💡The launch expands Synspective’s StriX constellation to 10 satellites, with Rocket Lab contracted for 17 more launches to complete the network by the end of the decade.

Hong Kong

The Centre for AI Robotics in Space Sustainability (CAIRSS) at HKUST has received HKD 46 million in funding to develop bio-inspired robotic manipulation systems for in-orbit operations. The project focuses on space debris removal and on-orbit manufacturing, with an in-orbit demonstration targeted for 2029 and collaboration across HKUST, CAS institutes, and industry partners.

💡The research will move away from rigid robotic designs toward flexible, biologically inspired actuation systems intended to handle complex tasks such as capturing debris and assembling structures in space.

Taiwan-Japan

Taiwan’s NCHU and NTHU jointly contributed to the VERTECS CubeSat telescope, successfully launched on Japan’s H3 rocket on June 12 in a multi-institution mission led by Kyutech and JAXA. The satellite is designed to study mysterious excess visible light in the universe using wide-field cosmic background observations.

💡A key highlight is that Taiwanese-developed software for data acquisition and processing is now operating in orbit, marking a step forward in Taiwan’s space data science capabilities.

Thailand-Japan

Thailand and Japan signed a cooperation agreement to expand collaboration in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology. The deal focuses on joint research into satellite constellations, industrial applications, and potential future projects.

💡The framework also brings together Thailand’s GISTDA and Japan’s JAXA and space industry to share technical data and produce joint studies. The aim is to support industrial development, security applications, and everyday space-based services.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: Respond.io Raises $62.5 Million Series B; Mynt Prepares IPO Filing; IMDA Launches $48 Million Digital Program; Galaxy Data Center Raises $250 Million; STT GDC Opens Seoul Data Center; K25.ai Raises $10 Million Funding Round; US–Japan Launch $1 Billion AI Pact; and AWS Launches Hanoi Local Zone

Environmental Sustainability: China Resources New Energy IPO Set for Record Raise; UN Global Compact ESG Dataset Launched; AI Data Center Energy Demand Surges; Indonesia Coal Phase-Out Stalls on Contracts; 100×100 Launches $100 Million Climate Fund; and Infrastructure Asia Signs Regional MoUs

Aviation: Cyan Ventures Launches Fuel Accelerator; Xi’an Airport Builds Digital Twin System; EcoCeres Extends SAF Supply Agreement; Noida Airport Begins Operations; and Christchurch Airport Expands Freight Apron

Advanced Air Mobility: Zero Gravity Aircraft Raises Major Funding; Sinopec Begins Carbon Fiber Production; Japan–Italy Vertiport Partnership Formed; Drone Postal Network Launched in India; Merlin Labs Targets Autonomous Flight; and China Advances eVTOL Certification

Marine: AI Welding Automation Partnership Announced; Smart Port System Exported to NEOM; Autonomous Ship Navigation Agreement Signed; Humanoid Robot Tested in Shipyard; AI Digital Twin Shipbuilding System Developed; and Conditional Unmanned Bridge Concept Launched

Space: Kuaizhou-11 Launch Shows Mixed Outcome; Zhuri Space Solar Power Tested; Spacesail Demonstrates Satellite Voice Calls; Gaganyaan and Space Station Plans Advance; and IN-SPACe Funds Space Startups

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Financing & Investments

Capital is flowing into AI-driven software, data centers, and cloud infrastructure, alongside IPO activity and public funding programs, reflecting a coordinated push to scale digital platforms and high-performance computing capacity across financial, media, and enterprise services.

Malaysia

Respond.io has secured $62.5 million in Series B financing in a round led by Camber Partners, with participation from Endeavor Catalyst and existing investors. The Malaysia-founded customer communications software company said the funding will be used to expand in North America and Europe, pursue acquisitions in Western markets, and continue investing in product development and customer support.

💡Founded in 2017, respond.io provides software for managing customer communications across messaging, voice, email and social channels. The company said it generates $35 million in annual recurring revenue, serves more than 10,000 businesses in 180 countries, and plans to expand its AI capabilities as demand grows for conversational sales and support tools.

Philippines

Philippine fintech firm Mynt has authorized preparations for a potential initial public offering after receiving approval from its board and shareholders to file the necessary registration and listing documents with regulators. The company plans to seek admission to the Philippine Stock Exchange, with the proposed transaction covering shares equal to 12% of its outstanding stock following the offering. The IPO would include a mix of newly issued and existing shares.

💡Mynt, which operates digital wallet platform GCash, said the transaction remains subject to regulatory clearances, market conditions and other approvals. The company has expanded its digital financial services business in the Philippines through products including payments and lending.

Singapore

IMDA has launched a S$48 million (US$37 million) Digital Content and Capability Development (DCCD) programme to support media professionals and companies in producing digital-first content over the next four years. The initiative aims to help creators adapt to shifting audience behaviour and integrate artificial intelligence into content production workflows.

💡The programme will fund digital content development across social and mobile platforms, as well as capability building in emerging formats such as short-form video and AI-generated content. It includes an accreditation system for companies to access funding calls, with 117 firms already approved in the first round, and aligns with broader national efforts to expand AI skills and strengthen Singapore’s media talent pipeline.

Singapore

Galaxy Data Center has raised $250 million in an initial strategic funding round from an international institutional investor. The company said the capital will be used to expand its data center platform across Southeast Asia, support project delivery and develop high-density infrastructure designed for artificial intelligence workloads.

💡The London- and Singapore-based company is building large-scale AI-focused data center campuses in multiple Southeast Asian markets, using Singapore as its regional base.

Singapore-South Korea

ST Telemedia Global Data Centers (STT GDC) has opened STT Seoul 1, its first data center in South Korea, through a joint venture with Hyosung Heavy Industries. STT GDC holds a 60% stake in the project, which targets growing demand for AI and cloud infrastructure in Northeast Asia.

💡The facility, in Seoul’s Gasan-dong district, covers about 40,000 square meters and supports up to 30MW of IT load, with commercial operations planned for June 2026. STT GDC said it includes redundant power and cooling systems, efficiency-focused design, and security and sustainability certifications for high-density workloads.

Thailand

NewGenIVF Group Limited has committed an additional $4 million strategic investment in K25.ai, completing the AI livestreaming and prediction-market platform’s $10 million Pre-A round at a $100 million valuation. The Thailand-based firm said the deal increases its expected ownership in K25.ai to 10%, subject to closing conditions.

💡K25.ai has now begun its Series A fundraising to support product launch, regulatory approvals and expansion across selected Asia-Pacific markets. The platform combines AI, livestreaming and prediction-market features, and NewGen also holds exclusive Asia-Pacific agency rights for distribution and partnerships in permitted markets.

USA-Japan

The United States Department of Energy and Japan’s science and industry ministries have announced a $1 billion partnership under President Trump’s Genesis Mission, making Japan its first international partner. Over five years, both sides will contribute $500 million to connect 12 U.S. national laboratories and 12 Japanese research institutions, focusing on AI-enabled research in quantum science, fusion energy, biotechnology, advanced materials, and particle physics.

💡The program will give researchers access to shared high-performance computing, including DOE supercomputers and Japan’s Fugaku, to accelerate scientific discovery. Early work will focus on AI-driven autonomous labs and particle accelerator research involving institutions such as RIKEN, KEK, and J-PARC, with the aim of speeding up innovation in next-generation technologies.

USA-Vietnam

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has launched its first Local Zone in Vietnam, located in Hanoi, to provide cloud infrastructure with low-latency computing for sectors such as finance, healthcare, gaming and media. The service allows organizations to run workloads closer to end users while using the same AWS tools and APIs as its main regions.

💡AWS said the Hanoi Local Zone is designed to deliver single-digit millisecond latency and support data residency requirements, allowing real-time applications like trading, gaming and streaming.

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Environmental Sustainability

Climate and sustainability efforts are expanding through large renewable energy financing, ESG data tools, and climate venture funding, but progress is increasingly shaped by structural constraints in energy transition systems and rising resource pressures from AI-driven data infrastructure demand.

China

China Resources New Energy could raise up to $3.6 billion if its greenshoe option is fully exercised, in what is set to become the largest IPO in Shenzhen’s history. The renewable energy arm of China Resources Power has priced its shares at $1.40 each, aiming to raise about $3.1 billion before the additional share sale option.

💡The company said proceeds will fund wind and solar power projects across China as the country continues expanding clean energy capacity. The listing, which opens for subscription on June 22, would surpass previous Shenzhen records and highlights strong state-backed capital support for renewable infrastructure development.

Global

S&P Global Sustainable1 has launched a UN Global Compact screening dataset covering 16,500 companies, with plans to expand coverage to about 24,000. The tool helps investors, banks and corporates assess company alignment with the UNGC’s principles on human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption.

💡The dataset combines AI-driven screening of global public sources with human analyst validation to identify controversies and revenue exposure to controversial products. It is designed to help financial institutions monitor ESG-related risks more consistently across portfolios and improve evidence-based investment decision-making.

Global

Data centre electricity demand linked to AI could reach 945 terawatt-hours annually by 2030, nearly three times the combined consumption of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nigeria, according to a UN University study. The report also estimates that AI-related water use could match the basic annual needs of about 1.3 billion people by the end of the decade.

💡The study warns that AI’s environmental footprint extends beyond carbon, including pressure on water, land and minerals, with more than 90% of AI computing capacity currently concentrated in the US and China. It also highlights risks from rising e-waste and uneven global access to infrastructure, arguing that AI development must be integrated into broader energy, water and resource planning.

Indonesia

A new Climate Finance Asia report finds that early retirement of coal-fired power plants in Indonesia is being blocked less by funding gaps and more by structural issues, including long-term power purchase agreements, fragmented decision-making, and legal and audit risks for public institutions. The study highlights the stalled Cirebon-1 pilot as an example, where financing interest exists but contractual and governance barriers have prevented execution.

💡Based on interviews and stakeholder mapping across Indonesia’s power sector, the report concludes that coal phase-out efforts require clearer legal authority, safer decision-making frameworks, and more flexible contracts before transition finance can be effective. It adds that concentrated control within state institutions and limited regulatory protection for restructuring also slow progress, even as global pressure to reduce coal use continues to rise.

Singapore

100×100, a Singapore-based climate venture builder and fund co-founded by the team behind Wavemaker Impact, has launched its second fund targeting $100 million. The firm said the capital will be used to build and scale 50 companies focused on reducing emissions across energy, food, materials and supply chains, primarily in Southeast Asia and India.

💡Unlike traditional venture capital, 100×100 builds companies alongside entrepreneurs from the ground up, aiming to accelerate the commercialization of low-emissions technologies. The firm said its portfolio companies are designed to deliver both economic returns and emissions reductions, with Fund I having backed 27 companies across eight countries and raised more than $28 million in external funding.

Singapore-Indonesia & Philippines

Infrastructure Asia has signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Indonesia Infrastructure Guarantee Fund, the Philippines’ Public-Private Partnership Center, the Private Infrastructure Development Group, and the World Bank Group at the Asia Infrastructure Forum 2026. The agreements aim to strengthen cooperation on project preparation, improve bankability, and expand access to financing for sustainable infrastructure projects across the region.

💡The MoUs will also support project pipeline visibility, capacity building, and advisory work on structuring infrastructure deals, including collaboration on training programs for public officials and practitioners.

Aviation

Aviation development is shifting toward decarbonization and operational digitization, with initiatives ranging from large-scale sustainable fuel production and long-term airline supply contracts to AI-integrated airport management systems and new airport capacity expansions aimed at improving efficiency, connectivity, and freight handling.

Australia

Cyan Ventures has launched the Green Fuels Accelerator (GFA), a programme backed by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and partners including Qantas and Boeing, to advance seven low-carbon liquid fuel projects toward financial close and commercial production. The initiative aims to reduce project risk by providing regulatory, technical, commercial and financing support, with a focus on boosting domestic fuel supply and cutting Australia’s reliance on imports.

💡The accelerator will help selected projects secure offtake agreements and funding structures needed to reach scale, with industry partners providing advisory input across development stages. Cyan Ventures said the programme is designed to turn early-stage sustainable aviation fuel and other low-emission fuel concepts into operating projects that support aviation decarbonisation and energy security.

China

China West Airport Group (CWAG) is advancing a large-scale digital transformation centred on Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, positioning the group as a benchmark operator in China’s civil aviation sector. The group said it is focusing on building an AI-enabled digital twin of airport operations as part of the third phase expansion, supported by cloud migration, data integration and intelligent infrastructure development in partnership with Huawei.

💡The upgraded airport features a unified digital platform that integrates flight, passenger, baggage and asset data across more than 50 systems, supported by high-performance computing and AI applications. CWAG said the system enables real-time monitoring, operational simulation and predictive management, improving efficiency, safety and service quality while raising flight punctuality above 93% and reducing ground operation times.

Hong Kong-UK

EcoCeres has extended its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) supply agreement with British Airways through 2030. The deal will see EcoCeres continue supplying waste-based SAF that is expected to cut around 198,000 tonnes of lifecycle carbon emissions compared with fossil jet fuel use.

💡EcoCeres produces SAF from feedstocks such as used cooking oil, with emissions reductions of up to 94.4% and compatibility with existing aircraft and fuel infrastructure. The company said the extension supports efforts to scale SAF production and improve supply certainty as airlines work toward net-zero targets.

India

Noida International Airport (NIA) in Greater Delhi has begun passenger and commercial operations, with IndiGo operating the first inbound flight from Lucknow. The airport, developed and operated by Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (a Zurich Airport subsidiary), will gradually scale up services as additional airlines launch routes.

💡The airport is expected to become a major aviation hub for the National Capital Region over time, helping ease congestion at Delhi’s existing airport and improve regional connectivity.

New Zealand

Christchurch Airport has opened a $40 million freight apron, expanding cargo capacity to support growing trade and logistics demand in New Zealand’s South Island. The project, which includes over 11 kilometres of underground services and uses lower-emission materials, is designed to improve efficiency and allow for future freight growth.

💡The apron forms part of a broader investment programme aimed at boosting export capability and supporting long-term regional economic growth.

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Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility continues to shift from experimentation toward early commercialization, driven by rapid industrial scaling of key materials, advancing certification progress in some markets, and expanding real-world deployments in logistics and passenger-focused systems, while regulatory environments remain a key differentiator shaping the pace of adoption across regions.

China

Zero Gravity Aircraft Industry has raised nearly 500 million yuan in a new funding round led by Hefei state-owned assets, with existing investor Seas Capital also participating. The company said proceeds will support eVTOL airworthiness certification, production preparation, and early commercial deployment.

💡The company is developing multiple electric aircraft platforms, including the ZG-T6 tilt-prop eVTOL and the ZG-ONE multi-rotor, both progressing through China’s Civil Aviation Administration certification process. It also operates certified electric light aircraft already in commercial service, which it says provide revenue support as it advances toward larger-scale low-altitude mobility applications.

China

A report by China Media Group says Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical has begun large-scale production of T1000-grade 12K carbon fiber, marking a shift from lab development to industrial output for the high-strength material. The company describes the fiber as suitable for aerospace and other advanced manufacturing applications due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance.

💡The report notes that the material is targeted at sectors including aerospace, drones, and electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, with potential use in structural components and other high-load applications. Sinopec said the product uses a domestically developed wet-spinning process and is ready for scaling as downstream demand develops.

Japan-Italy & USA

UrbanV, an Italy-based vertiport network operator, and Japan Airport Consultants (JAC) have agreed to establish a long-term partnership to support planning, design, and regulatory integration for advanced air mobility infrastructure. The cooperation will focus primarily on Japan, with additional international opportunities, and will include joint research and consulting activities.

💡The first project under the framework will target the Tokyo metropolitan area as part of a consortium led by Japan Airlines and involving Archer Aviation. UrbanV will act as a technical partner to JAC, providing international benchmarking and alignment with global aviation standards, while JAC contributes local experience in airport planning and infrastructure development.

India

Skye Air Mobility and India Post have launched a drone-based postal delivery network across 150 routes in Himachal Pradesh and Assam. The program began operations from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, on June 12, shortly after the contract was signed, and is intended to improve delivery access in remote and difficult terrain, including mountainous regions and flood-prone areas.

💡The system uses autonomous drones and an AI-enabled logistics platform to support navigation, routing, and real-time operations without direct piloting for each flight. The network covers 110 locations in Himachal Pradesh and 40 in Assam, with use cases including mail, documents, and small parcels.

New Zealand & USA

Merlin Labs said it is targeting 2027 to begin commercial autonomous flight operations, with certification efforts underway in both New Zealand and the United States. CEO Matt George said the company has conducted hundreds of autonomous test flights since 2022 at its Kerikeri, New Zealand test site, working with local regulators and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on validation pathways.

💡The company’s “Merlin Pilot” system is designed to operate fixed-wing aircraft from takeoff to landing under regulatory oversight. Merlin said it is using New Zealand as a primary test environment and is moving toward the final stages of certification, while also positioning the technology for both commercial and defense applications.

USA & China

A Congressional Research Service report says China has moved ahead in certifying electric air taxis, granting approvals to EHang and AutoFlight for limited commercial use. The report contrasts this with the United States, where the Federal Aviation Administration has not yet certified any eVTOL aircraft for passenger operations.

💡The report notes that FAA certification frameworks for powered-lift aircraft are still under development, with timelines typically spanning several years. It adds that U.S. companies remain in testing and pre-certification stages as regulators work toward enabling initial advanced air mobility operations later in the decade.

Marine

AI and autonomy are reshaping shipbuilding and maritime logistics, with rapid convergence of robotics, digital twin systems, and autonomous navigation technologies, alongside increasing cross-border collaboration focused on scaling efficiency, reducing rework, and advancing stepwise adoption of unmanned and AI-assisted maritime operations.

Canada-South Korea

Novarc Technologies has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean to explore AI-driven manufacturing and welding automation for shipbuilding. The collaboration will combine Novarc’s “Physical AI” welding systems with Hanwha Ocean’s shipbuilding expertise to improve precision, efficiency, and reduce rework in complex maritime construction.

💡The partnership brings together industry, government, and research stakeholders from Canada and Korea. It focuses on using AI-enabled robotics to support high-precision welding in commercial and naval shipbuilding, with the long-term goal of advancing more autonomous and adaptive manufacturing systems.

China-Saudi Arabia

Tianjin Port is set to complete the first phase of a smart port system that will be exported to Saudi Arabia’s NEOM Port, marking the first overseas deployment of its Chinese-developed intelligent port solution. The initial shipment includes autonomous transport vehicles, an automated charging system and a digital dispatch platform, along with technical support for installation and testing.

💡The system uses 5G networks, Beidou satellite positioning and AI to enable automated cargo handling and coordination across port operations, and is designed for zero-carbon operation supported by renewable energy and hydrogen trucks. Tianjin Port said the technology improves operational efficiency by about 20% and forms part of its broader push toward fully automated, low-emission port infrastructure.

South Korea

HJ Heavy Industries and HD Hyundai Avikus have signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate on autonomous ship navigation technology. Under the agreement, HD Hyundai Avikus will supply its HiNAS Control system—an advanced autonomous navigation solution—for integration into vessels built by HJ Heavy Industries, with both companies also committing to further joint R&D.

💡Both firms aim to accelerate development of uncrewed and semi-autonomous vessels as South Korea expands testing and real-world deployment of maritime automation technologies.

South Korea

Hanwha Ocean is preparing a shipyard pilot of the AeiROBOT “Alice” humanoid robot at its Geoje facility, aiming to test whether humanoid systems can support labor-intensive and hazardous shipbuilding tasks. The trial will focus on functions such as transport, navigation, obstacle avoidance, and tool handling in complex and constantly changing shipyard environments.

💡The project, developed with AeiROBOT and NdotLight, will first train the robot in a digital twin built using Nvidia simulation tools before moving into real-world testing. Hanwha Ocean will evaluate whether humanoid robots can improve safety and productivity in areas where traditional fixed automation is limited, as the industry looks for new ways to address labor shortages and operational complexity.

USA-Japan

American and Japanese researchers are developing robots and AI systems that can help shipbuilders detect when a vessel under construction deviates from its original design. Led by the University of Michigan with MIT and funded by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the $6.2 million project will deploy mobile robots in shipyards to scan structures and compare them against digital design models.

💡The system will use LiDAR, cameras, and AI to build a real-time “digital twin” of the ship as it is assembled, flagging mismatches such as misplaced pipes or blocked installation routes. It will also suggest fixes and alternatives to reduce rework and delays. The goal is to help shipyards adapt to complex, fast-changing construction conditions while improving accuracy and efficiency.

USA-South Korea

ABS, Polaris Shipping, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, and Avikus have signed a four-party agreement to develop a “conditional unmanned bridge” concept for a 325,000-ton Very Large Ore Carrier. The study will explore how autonomous navigation systems could allow ships to operate without crew on the bridge during defined low-risk conditions, such as open-ocean sailing.

💡The project focuses on a phased approach to autonomy aligned with the IMO MASS framework, rather than full vessel autonomy. Avikus will define the navigation system requirements, Hyundai will assess design changes, Polaris will provide real operational data, and ABS will evaluate safety and regulatory compliance. The goal is to identify technical gaps and prepare the concept for future commercial deployment.

Space

China is rapidly advancing launch reliability, space-based solar power experiments, and direct-to-device satellite communications, while India is strengthening its human spaceflight program and scaling commercialization through startup funding,

China

China’s ExPace launched a Kuaizhou-11 rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on June 17 at 11:58 a.m. CST, carrying multiple CentiSpace 05 satellites. The vehicle appeared to complete initial ascent stages successfully, with spent stages recovered in expected drop zones, but no immediate confirmation of mission success was issued afterward.

Early tracking data and later updates suggested mixed outcomes, with indications the rocket may have reached orbit and deployed satellites before potential anomalies affecting at least one payload or late-stage mission performance. The launch is now described by sources as partially successful pending confirmation from operators and orbital tracking agencies, with ExPace expected to release a formal assessment after verifying satellite health and deployment status.

China

Researchers at Xidian University are developing a space-based solar power system under a project called “Zhuri,” aimed at capturing solar energy in orbit and transmitting it wirelessly to Earth. The concept targets geostationary orbit, more than 36,000 km away, where solar collection would be continuous and unaffected by weather or night cycles.

In ground tests led by associate professor Fan Guanheng, the team used large-scale optical concentrators and solar panels to generate electricity, converted it into microwaves, and transmitted it over 100 metres to a rectenna for reconversion into power.

💡The system achieved kilowatt-level transmission and demonstrated multi-target beam steering, with further work focused on modular, formation-flying designs and key challenges such as beam precision, deployable structures, and safety for real-world deployment.

China

Spacesail said it has completed China’s first successful trial of direct-to-satellite voice calls using standard, unmodified smartphones. The company reported stable connectivity and clear voice quality throughout the test, which used its direct-to-cell satellite system designed to connect phones directly to satellites without hardware or software changes.

💡The trial involved the Zhuque-2E rocket launch earlier this month, which carried the Spacesail DTC 01 test satellite. The system is intended to integrate satellite communications with 5G/6G networks, with performance described as comparable to terrestrial mobile service. Spacesail also said its constellation has expanded to about 200 satellites as of June 5.

India

India is preparing for its human spaceflight mission Gaganyaan and plans to develop its own space station, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during a visit to Paris. He said the program reflects India’s broader push in space, green energy, and advanced nuclear technology.

💡Gaganyaan, led by Indian Space Research Organisation, aims to send a three-member crew to low Earth orbit at 300–400 km for up to seven days. Modi also confirmed progress toward joint India–France Earth observation satellite TRISHNA, designed to monitor water and agricultural resources for food and water security, developed with France’s CNES and ISRO.

India

IN-SPACe has selected three startups for funding under its Technology Adoption Fund, aimed at accelerating commercialization of space technologies by non-government entities.

💡The selected firms include Astrobase Space Technologies, which will develop a high-thrust closed-cycle liquid rocket engine; SatSure Analytics India, which will build a large Earth observation AI model for remote sensing; and TM2SPACE Technologies, which will develop an AI-powered star tracker system for satellite navigation and imaging accuracy. The funding program is designed to bridge early-stage development and commercial deployment of advanced space technologies.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: AI Infrastructure Fund Targets Photonics & Semiconductors; Data Center & Industrial Real Estate Fund Launches; Tokenized Gold Product Introduced by Major Bank; AI Standards Strategy Strengthened Through Global Partnerships; Semiconductor & AI Manufacturing Expansion Accelerates in SEA; Advanced Chip Design Acquisition Expands Edge AI Capabilities; Large-Scale Semiconductor Equipment Investment Expands AI Capacity; Data Center Connectivity Acquisition Strengthens AI Infrastructure Supply Chain; and Chipmaker Expands Vietnam Operations on Export Growth

Environmental Sustainability: Global Conservation Financing Program Allocated Across Regions; Cross-Border Air Quality Monitoring System Launched; UK–Japan Clean Energy Investment Deal Advances; Nature-Related Financial Risk Framework Expanded in Banking Sector; Climate Lawsuit Appeal Rejected in Landmark Case; Renewable Energy & Storage Project Expanded via Cross-Border Partnership; and Carbon Removal Agreement Signed for Enhanced Rock Weathering Project

Aviation: Airport Systems Integration Contract Awarded; Major MRO Expansion Announced in Asia-Pacific; Aircraft Dismantling Hub Launches in Free Trade Zone; Fuel Shock Drives Airline Margin Pressure; Tax Reform & Skills Shortage Shape Industry Outlook; Regional Aircraft Demand Interest Emerges; Air Traffic Management AI Partnership Formed; Boeing Signals Support for Large China Order; and Gulfstream Expands Singapore Support Presence

Advanced Air Mobility: EHang Approves Share Buyback Program; eVTOL Tourism Flights Demonstrated; Cargo eVTOL Gains First Overseas Certification; Air Ambulance Variant Development Underway; and Electric Aircraft Hits 100-Flight Milestone

Marine: Waste-Based Marine Fuel Trial Begins; Icebreaker Routing Restrictions Under Review; LNG Strike Action Escalates; New Trans-Pacific Container Route Launches; Tax Cuts & Green Shipping Incentives Introduced; and Sanctions Compliance Tightens Fleet Certification

Space: Satellite Communications Dependence Under Security Review; Rapid Expansion of Satellite Constellations Continues; H3 Rocket Returns to Successful Flight; Geostationary Satellite Retired After Long Mission; Space IPO Drives Investor Flow Into Supply Chains; and Commercial Space Station Funding Accelerates

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Financing & Investments

Capital is concentrating in AI infrastructure, semiconductors, and data center ecosystems, with financial structures increasingly designed to secure compute, connectivity, and supply chain positioning rather than traditional asset exposure.

Japan-USA

NTT, SK Group, Chunghwa Telecom and the Development Bank of Japan will launch a $500 million IOWN AI Fund to invest in technologies supporting next-generation AI infrastructure. The fund will be managed by Catalight Capital, with operations in Silicon Valley and Tokyo.

💡The initiative will focus on startups and companies developing photonics, semiconductors, distributed computing and AI systems, with investments spanning early to growth-stage firms across North America, Asia and Europe. It aims to support distributed, real-time AI infrastructure as demand shifts beyond centralized data centers toward more edge-based and power-efficient architectures.

Malaysia

Sime Darby Property Berhad has launched its second real estate development fund, the New Economy Venture Fund, with up to MYR 1.25 billion ($310 million) earmarked for data centers and industrial projects. The Shariah-compliant, closed-end fund achieved full capital commitment at first close and has a five-year term.

💡The fund will invest in build-to-suit data centers and logistics assets within Sime Darby Property townships in Malaysia, with seed projects already under construction at Elmina Business Park and City of Elmina. Backed by institutional investors including EPF, LTAT and Great Eastern Life Malaysia, the fund aims to generate recurring income through development yield and lease-backed assets in the growing data center sector.

Singapore

DBS said it will offer tokenized physical gold to customers in Singapore, with retail access through its digibank platform set to begin in the second half of 2026. The bank said the product will be the first in Singapore to let customers access, hold and trade tokenized physical gold through a single platform. Each token will be backed by one gram of physical gold stored in a DBS vault in Singapore, while the bank will manage the entire process in-house. DBS is also exploring a future listing on DBS Digital Exchange for accredited and institutional investors.

💡The launch reflects broader growth in real-world asset tokenization. DBS said fractional ownership could make gold investing more accessible and affordable while preserving exposure to a physical asset. The bank added that investor demand for gold remains supported by its role as a store of value and portfolio diversifier during periods of inflation, geopolitical uncertainty and market volatility.

Singapore-Global

Singapore has launched a long-term strategy to strengthen its role in global AI standards-setting and position itself as a trusted hub for digital trade and emerging technologies. The Standards and Conformance (S&C) 2035 roadmap, unveiled by Enterprise Singapore, will support companies in adopting standards earlier and build capabilities in sectors such as AI, precision medicine and offshore wind.

💡The roadmap places particular emphasis on AI, with Singapore seeking to shape global norms before formal regulations take hold. EnterpriseSG signed cooperation agreements with standards bodies in the United Kingdom, South Korea, Australia, Canada and the United States, while also expanding partnerships with Vietnam and Indonesia. The initiatives aim to support innovation, interoperability and market access as AI governance frameworks continue to evolve globally.

Singapore-Malaysia

Granite Asia, a pan-Asia investment platform managing more than $10 billion in assets, has marked the opening of a new facility in Penang by its portfolio company Galatek Technologies. The Singapore-headquartered firm said it plans to increase investment in the site from an initial $2 million to $100 million over the next five years, creating up to 100 jobs.

💡Galatek, which provides AI-enabled automation, semiconductor equipment and life sciences technologies, said the facility will serve as a regional production and delivery hub for Southeast Asia and overseas markets. The opening also included a networking event co-hosted with InvestPenang.

Taiwan-Singapore

Taiwan’s QBit Semiconductor has acquired a 60 percent stake in Singapore-based SinChip Technology as it seeks to expand its application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) design services into Edge AI, high-performance computing, optical communications and automotive applications. The company said it will establish a global R&D network across Taiwan, Japan, the United States, Singapore and Vietnam to support its growth amid rising demand for customized chips.

💡SinChip specializes in IC logic verification, physical design and advanced process technologies, with about 130 engineers and experience across 3nm, 5nm and 7nm nodes. QBit said combining its system-on-chip platform capabilities with SinChip’s capabilities would accelerate its expansion in ASIC design services, as demand grows for highly integrated chips used in Edge AI, high-speed data transmission and intelligent endpoint applications.

USA-Singapore

Applied Materials has expanded its Singapore manufacturing and R&D operations with a $500 million investment at its Tampines Campus to support AI-driven semiconductor demand. The facility more than doubles advanced cleanroom capacity in Singapore and is already in volume production for chipmakers scaling AI-related output.

💡The campus is part of the company’s Singapore 2030 plan and is expected to add about 1,000 jobs. It integrates automation, AI-enabled manufacturing and sustainability features, and is linked to Applied Materials’ global production network across the U.S., Europe, Israel and Taiwan.


USA-Singapore

BizLink Holding will acquire Interplex Datacom, a Singapore-headquartered division of Ennovi owned by Blackstone, in an all-cash deal valued at $850 million plus up to $50 million in contingent payments. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

💡BizLink said the acquisition will strengthen its position in AI data center infrastructure by combining Interplex Datacom’s mechanical and structural components for server racks with its own electrical and connectivity solutions. The deal also expands BizLink’s precision metals capabilities and supports its broader semiconductor, medical and systems integration businesses across Asia.

USA-Vietnam

Intel will invest an additional $2.6 billion in Vietnam, raising its total investment in the country to $4.1 billion as the U.S. chipmaker marks 20 years of operations there. The company said its Saigon High Tech Park facility is now the largest assembly and test site in Intel’s global network, employing about 6,500 people.

💡Intel Products Vietnam has produced more than four billion units and generated over $110 billion in exports over the past two decades.

Environmental Sustainability

Environmental finance is expanding into more formal risk assessment and cross-border investment structures, with growing emphasis on integrating biodiversity, carbon removal, and climate risk into mainstream financial and legal systems.

Asia, Africa & the Pacific

International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) will implement a US$23 million portfolio of projects funded by the Global Environment Facility across Asia, Africa and the Pacific to address biodiversity loss and strengthen climate resilience. The approvals cover initiatives in India, the Solomon Islands, Indonesia, Mongolia and Tunisia, focusing on forest restoration, freshwater systems, coastal ecosystems and ecosystem risk assessment frameworks.

💡Key projects include US$7.28 million for community-led forest restoration and fire resilience in India and US$6 million for ridge-to-reef ecosystem recovery in the Solomon Islands. Additional smaller initiatives will support ecosystem risk evaluation in Indonesia, desertification-related efforts in Mongolia and wetland restoration in Tunisia, with IUCN serving as the implementing agency alongside national governments and partners such as the United Nations Development Programme.

China-Thailand

A China–Thailand air quality monitoring “Super Station” has been launched at Kasetsart University in Bangkok under a joint environmental cooperation initiative aimed at improving pollution tracking and management. The system operates continuously, collecting real-time air samples and transmitting data to an analytics platform to support faster source identification of PM2.5 pollution.

💡The station is designed to reduce the time needed for pollution source analysis from months to hours using real-time measurement and lidar-based monitoring. It is expected to be integrated into Bangkok’s wider air quality network to improve policy response, as both countries expand cooperation on environmental monitoring and related areas such as water management and carbon reduction.

Japan-UK

The UK and Japan are expected to sign an £18 billion ($24.1 billion) investment agreement covering clean energy, infrastructure and financial services, according to Bloomberg. The package is expected to include up to £9 billion of Japanese investment for 5.9 GW of floating offshore wind projects in the UK, which could eventually supply electricity to about 8 million homes, according to the UK government.

💡The deal is expected to be announced ahead of a meeting between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, with business leaders from both countries also participating.

Malaysia

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the World Bank Group and the United Nations Development Programme’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (UNDP BIOFIN) have released a report examining how financial sector activities depend on and affect nature, and the risks and opportunities arising from those links. The report, titled A LEAP for Nature: Advancing Nature-related Financial Risk and Opportunity Assessment in Malaysia, also outlines recommendations to help financial institutions, businesses and public sector entities strengthen the assessment of nature-related risks.

💡The report provides practical guidance on identifying nature-related dependencies, impacts, risks and opportunities to support a more resilient financial system and a transition to a nature-positive economy. BNM said nature loss is increasingly translating into financial risks, including supply chain disruptions, asset devaluation and higher insurance costs, while also creating opportunities in areas such as sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism and nature-based solutions.

Taiwan

Taiwan’s Supreme Administrative Court has rejected an appeal in the island’s first climate lawsuit, ending a five-year legal challenge by environmental groups including Greenpeace. The case challenged provisions of the Renewable Energy Development Act requiring large electricity users to adopt or procure renewable energy, arguing the rules were too weak to drive meaningful emissions reductions.

The court upheld earlier rulings that dismissed the case on the grounds that civil society groups can propose policy changes but cannot compel regulators to set stricter requirements. The decision comes as Taiwan continues to face pressure over its climate targets, with projections suggesting it may fall short of its 2025 emissions reduction goal amid rising electricity demand from semiconductor manufacturing and AI-related industries.

Taiwan, USA & Vietnam

Foxconn and global investment firm Brookfield Asset Management will jointly develop up to 1 GW of wind, solar and battery capacity in Vietnam under long-term power purchase agreements to support Foxconn’s operations and supply chain. The partnership will proceed in line with Vietnam’s direct power purchase agreement framework.

💡Brookfield will use its Catalytic Transition Fund, backed by $1 billion from ALTÉRRA, to invest in and manage the projects alongside Foxconn. The companies said the initiative is intended to secure stable, cost-effective renewable power for industrial operations in the country, where manufacturing demand is expanding.

USA-India

Microsoft has signed a multi-year carbon dioxide removal agreement with India-based climate tech startup Alt Carbon, committing to purchase 36,920 tonnes of credits from an enhanced rock weathering (ERW) project in Darjeeling. The deal marks Microsoft’s first ERW-based carbon removal purchase in Asia and includes an option for additional volumes subject to delivery and verification.

💡The credits will be generated from Alt Carbon’s Darjeeling Revival Project, which applies basalt rock dust to agricultural land to capture CO2 over time while also aiming to improve soil quality and crop yields.

Aviation

Aviation is being driven by large infrastructure programs, cost pressure from fuel volatility, and uneven capacity across maintenance and workforce systems, while technology integration and regional competition continue to influence operational and investment priorities.

Australia

DXC Technology has been selected by Perth Airport as Master Systems Integrator (MSI) for its new terminal development, part of a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure programme aimed at consolidating all airline operations into a single central precinct by 2031.

💡DXC will design, integrate and commission more than 70 interconnected IT and operational systems, including passenger processing, baggage tracking, security screening, cloud, cybersecurity and airport operations platforms. The project is intended to support Perth Airport’s long-term expansion plans, including handling up to 30 million passengers annually by 2046.

Canada-Singapore

Bombardier will expand its Singapore Service Center at Seletar Aerospace Park with a new 250,000-square-foot facility backed by a S$100 million ($78 million) investment. Construction is slated to begin in the second half of 2026, with operations expected in the second half of 2028.

💡The site will add maintenance, modification, avionics and aircraft-on-ground services, along with component repair and recompletion capabilities. The expansion is expected to create more than 200 jobs and strengthen Bombardier’s maintenance, repair and overhaul footprint across the Asia-Pacific region.

China

The first aircraft dismantling project in the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) has been launched at the Hainan FTP One-Stop Aircraft Maintenance Base, marking the completion of a full aviation maintenance value chain in the region. The project is operated by HNA Technic through its subsidiary Grand China Aviation Maintenance.

💡Authorities said the development strengthens Hainan’s aviation circular economy and is expected to attract more maintenance, logistics, and component trading activity, supported by the FTP’s tax and customs facilitation policies.

Global

The latest semi-annual report from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlights severe disruption to the global airline sector following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on 28 February 2026. The resulting oil and refinery shock cut crude supply by around 10 million barrels per day and briefly pushed prices toward $150 per barrel, with jet fuel prices roughly doubling and crack spreads reaching record levels due to constrained refining capacity and disrupted logistics.

💡IATA said the shock is feeding through to the wider economy, with global GDP growth expected to slow to around 2.5% in 2026 and inflation rising above 5%, raising stagflation risks in energy-importing economies. Passenger traffic growth is forecast to ease to 2.1%, while cargo growth slows to 0.7%. Airlines remain profitable overall, but net profit is projected to fall to $23 billion as higher fuel costs and constrained capacity compress margins.

New Zealand

The Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand (AIANZ) has welcomed parts of Budget 2026, particularly a permanent exemption from non-resident contractors’ tax on offshore dry leasing of aircraft parts. The change is expected to lower costs for airlines, including Air New Zealand, and improve access to critical components.

💡However, AIANZ said the budget does not address a persistent aviation engineering skills shortage of more than 300 workers. Chief executive Simon Wallace said the absence of targeted training investment is a “lost opportunity,” with the sector continuing to rely on immigration pathways to fill gaps. The association also raised concerns about slow rollout of regional airline support funding and broader workforce constraints across general aviation.

Russia-India

Russian state-owned aviation group United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) says Indian airlines have expressed interest in purchasing 100–200 aircraft, including the SJ-100 and Il-114-300, according to comments by UAC head Vadim Badekha ahead of SPIEF-2026.

💡UAC said the potential demand reflects India’s need for regional aircraft and noted ongoing cooperation with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on possible licensed production of the SJ-100 in India. The company also indicated early discussions on local manufacturing and broader market potential of up to 200–300 aircraft across India and nearby markets.

Singapore-Austria

The International Centre for Aviation Innovation (ICAI) and Frequentis have signed a partnership to advance air traffic management (ATM) technologies and improve airspace efficiency in the Asia-Pacific region. The collaboration will combine ICAI’s project coordination capabilities with Frequentis’ capabilities in ATM systems and communication technologies.

💡The joint R&D framework will focus on applications including AI-based speech recognition for controller communications and advanced surface movement guidance systems to support airport operations, particularly at high-traffic hubs such as Singapore Changi Airport. The partners are also exploring the potential establishment of a joint aviation R&D centre in Singapore to support development of AI-driven air traffic management and digital aviation systems.

USA-China

Boeing says it can fully support China’s planned order of 200 aircraft with aftermarket parts and services, according to Boeing Global Services CEO Chris Raymond. He said supply of components would proceed as long as items are cleared for global export, and noted that Boeing already operates a parts warehouse in China.

💡The company also said discussions on the 200-aircraft deal are expected to be finalized this year, with potential for further orders. Boeing acknowledged ongoing global supply chain constraints affecting some components, while reporting steady demand for aircraft upgrades and maintenance across most regions.

USA-Singapore

Gulfstream Aerospace has opened a new on-site Customer Support office in Singapore, hosted at Jet Aviation’s facility, expanding its service footprint across the Asia-Pacific region. The office provides local access to technical, materials, quality and sales personnel, marking the company’s first dedicated support presence at this location.

💡The expansion strengthens Gulfstream’s regional maintenance and parts network, which includes field service teams, authorised service centres and a Singapore distribution hub holding more than $70 million in spare parts inventory.

Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility is moving from pilot projects toward early deployment, with certification progress, specialized use cases, and capital allocation decisions indicating gradual transition into structured commercial operations.

China

EHang Holdings Limited said its Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program of up to US$30 million of its American Depositary Shares or ordinary shares over the next 12 months. The company said repurchases may be made from time to time through open market transactions, privately negotiated deals, block trades, or other legally permitted methods, depending on market conditions, with timing and size to be determined by management.

💡Separately, EHang reported first-quarter 2026 revenue of RMB25.7 million (US$3.7 million), compared with RMB26.1 million a year earlier, and a net loss of RMB126.4 million (US$18.3 million). The company delivered four EH216-series aircraft during the quarter, down from the prior year period, and said it continues work toward commercial eVTOL operations while maintaining its full-year 2026 revenue guidance of approximately RMB600 million.

China

EHang has demonstrated a tourism application of its EH216-S autonomous aircraft in China’s Erhai Lake region, offering short-distance flights between Shuanglang and Xizhou in about 10 minutes.

💡The company said the route replaces an approximately one-hour road trip and is intended to showcase the aircraft’s potential for tourism and regional mobility. EHang said it is expanding operational demonstrations while pursuing broader commercial applications under existing regulatory approvals in China.

China-Indonesia

AutoFlight has received a Validated Type Certificate (VTC) from Indonesia’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its V2000CG CarryAll cargo eVTOL, marking the first overseas validation of an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft model. The certification follows a bilateral review process between Indonesia’s DGCA and China’s Civil Aviation Administration, confirming the aircraft meets local airworthiness requirements for commercial use.

💡AutoFlight said the V2000CG will be used for inter-island cargo transport, including high-value goods such as pharmaceuticals and perishable products, as it advances plans for deployment in Southeast Asia.

India

Sarla Aviation has signed a memorandum of understanding with Bluedot Air Ambulance, an EURAMI-accredited medical transport provider, to develop an air ambulance variant of its Shunya eVTOL aircraft.

💡The partnership will focus on designing the aircraft’s medical cabin, establishing operational protocols for aeromedical services, training specialized crews, and assessing emergency air corridors in Bengaluru and other regions. The collaboration aims to align the platform with international air ambulance standards as Sarla Aviation prepares for future regulatory approvals in India.

South Korea

Future aviation mobility company Top Mobility said it has completed 100 accident-free flights with the Pipistrel Velis Electro, marking what it described as the first such milestone in Asia.

💡The company said the flights demonstrate the safety and commercial potential of electric aircraft, which are being used for sightseeing operations, pilot training, and short-distance travel. Top Mobility added that operational data indicates lower maintenance and energy costs compared with conventional aircraft, and said it plans to expand into tourism flights and training programs while assessing longer-term intercity use cases.

Marine

Marine activity is increasingly shaped by the intersection of decarbonization trials, regulatory enforcement, and infrastructure constraints, while trade expansion and energy-related labor disputes continue to add operational volatility across global shipping and LNG networks.

Australia-Singapore

BHP and the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) have trialled a marine biofuel blend made from used cooking oil and waste animal fats on a BHP-chartered bulk carrier, bunkered in Singapore. The pilot tests how multi-feedstock biofuels perform in real operating conditions, including handling, quality, traceability, and onboard performance, with support from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore.

💡The vessel used a 50:50 blend of used cooking oil biodiesel and animal tallow-based fuel. The trial will assess operational risks such as fuel stability and engine impacts, and validate emissions accounting. BHP estimates up to about a 79% reduction in well-to-wake emissions versus conventional marine fuel on the voyage.

Australia

Tasmanian authorities are reviewing whether Australia’s Antarctic icebreaker RSV Nuyina could be allowed to pass under Hobart’s Tasman Bridge, a route currently prohibited due to safety concerns. The vessel is instead required to detour about 674 kilometres to refuel at Burnie, adding roughly A$900,000 in annual fuel costs.

💡The restriction was imposed in 2023 after simulations indicated the ship lacked sufficient directional stability for a safe transit under the bridge, with modelling showing multiple potential collision scenarios with bridge pylons. Officials said updated studies are now being considered alongside other refuelling options, including a barge or storage-based systems, while the harbourmaster retains final authority on any decision.

Australia

The Offshore Alliance, a union representing workers at INPEX’s Ichthys LNG facility, said it planned to continue protected industrial action at the site and extend strike activity to up to eight hours per day. The union said the escalation follows rejected wage and conditions offers and forms part of an ongoing dispute with the operator.

💡INPEX is seeking a Fair Work Commission order to suspend the strike action, with a hearing scheduled for June 12. The Ichthys project has a capacity of 9.3 million tonnes per year of LNG, much of it supplied to Japan, and any disruption could tighten regional LNG supply amid already elevated global prices linked to ongoing Middle East supply constraints.

China-USA

A new Nanjing–Houston and Brunswick container service launched on June 5, with the vessel GREEN VITORIA departing Nanjing Port’s Longtan terminal carrying engineering equipment and vehicles. The voyage to U.S. Gulf and East Coast ports is expected to take about 40 days.

💡The route strengthens Nanjing’s role as a river–sea intermodal hub on the Yangtze River, expanding its international network to North America, South Asia, and South America. Local authorities say port upgrades and faster customs clearance procedures are being used to improve vessel turnaround and support higher-capacity global trade flows.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong said it will introduce tax concessions for qualifying commodity trading and shipping-related activities, including a reduced profit tax rate of 8.25% for eligible physical commodity traders, down from 16.5%, as part of efforts to strengthen its role as a regional trading hub. The government also proposed an optional 15% concessionary tax rate for shipping and commodity firms under OECD BEPS 2.0 rules to simplify compliance while maintaining competitiveness.

💡Separately, the Hong Kong Marine Department said it will launch two incentive schemes from June 16 to promote green maritime fuels, including port fee rebates of 25% to 50% for vessels using approved low-carbon fuels such as LNG, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, and biofuel blends, along with annual subsidies for Hong Kong-registered green-fuel vessels.

India

The Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) has withdrawn certifications for more than 200 vessels since 2023, mainly oil tankers along with some LNG and container ships, as part of stricter enforcement of sanctions compliance. Executive Chairman Arun Sharma said the organisation is refusing to classify vessels linked to U.S. or U.K. sanctions, particularly those connected to Russia and Iran.

💡Sharma said a total of 235 ships have been removed from the registry over the period, noting that while certification decisions can be controlled, cargo routing and ownership structures can still complicate enforcement. Loss of classification can limit a vessel’s ability to secure insurance and access international ports.

Space

Space activity is being pulled in multiple directions at once, with expanding orbital infrastructure, rising policy concerns around communications control, and stronger capital inflows into private space ventures reinforcing each other across the sector.

Australia-USA

Australian officials are privately reviewing national security and regulatory risks linked to reliance on Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, as its domestic use expands across government, emergency services, and telecom partnerships. Internal government documents and advisory notes warn that foreign-controlled low-Earth-orbit networks may present sovereignty and availability risks because they operate outside direct national infrastructure control.

💡The concerns centre on limited regulatory leverage over satellite-based services, including questions over spectrum oversight and the ability to enforce compliance from offshore operators. While Starlink is licensed under Australian telecom frameworks and classified as critical infrastructure, officials note that international treaty regimes and orbital operations limit traditional domestic regulatory control, raising broader questions about dependency on a privately controlled global communications network.

China

China conducted multiple orbital launches in early June, including three missions within about four days to expand the Qianfan internet constellation. A new Chang Zheng 12B rocket completed its maiden flight on June 1, placing two satellites into orbit. Developed in roughly 20 months, the vehicle is designed for high-capacity constellation deployment, though questions were raised over limited pre-launch public airspace notices.

💡The period also saw continued progress across China’s commercial and reusable launch sector. LandSpace is preparing a second flight of its ZhuQue-3 reusable methane-fuelled rocket after a near-successful first landing attempt, while other firms are testing varied recovery methods, including net capture and horizontal “bellyflop” landings. China’s satellite internet networks continue to scale, with the Qianfan constellation reaching around 200 satellites in orbit, ahead of its state-backed rival Guowang.

Japan

Japan’s H3 rocket successfully launched from the Tanegashima Space Center on Friday, placing six small satellites into orbit about 580 kilometres above Earth. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) confirmed the rocket reached its planned orbit roughly 15 minutes after liftoff, marking a successful return to flight after a failed mission in December.

💡The launch used a new H3 “30 configuration” without boosters, relying on three main engines instead of earlier two-engine versions. JAXA said design fixes were made to address the previous payload support issue, with agency leadership describing the mission as a key step in restoring confidence in Japan’s next-generation launch system.

South Korea

South Korea has retired its first geostationary satellite, Cheollian-1, after 16 years of operation, completing a controlled disposal into a graveyard orbit about 300 kilometres above its original geostationary position. The Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) said the satellite, launched in 2010, ended operations on June 8 following a series of manoeuvres that raised its orbit and safely deactivated onboard systems.

💡During its mission, Cheollian-1 travelled about 1.6 billion kilometres and produced more than 560,000 weather images, far exceeding its seven-year design life. The disposal followed standard geostationary end-of-life practice to reduce collision and interference risks, with remaining propellant vented and systems shut down after the final orbit-raising burns.

USA-Asia

Asian investors are largely excluded from direct participation in SpaceX’s US$75 billion IPO and are instead turning to indirect exposure through suppliers, space-sector stocks, and themed exchange-traded funds. Trading interest has surged across markets such as South Korea, Taiwan, and China, where retail investors are targeting companies linked to satellite components, communications hardware, and launch infrastructure.

💡Funds tracking aerospace and space innovation themes are also seeing increased inflows as investors attempt to capture potential upside from SpaceX’s listing and broader satellite economy growth. In some cases, related suppliers in Taiwan and China have outperformed broader equity indices this year, reflecting strong speculative demand around the IPO and its expected impact on the global space value chain.

USA-Japan

Axiom Space said it has closed an oversubscribed funding round of more than US$525 million, driven by continued institutional and strategic investor demand following a February capital raise. The company said the additional capital strengthens its position in commercial low-Earth orbit markets, including human spaceflight, spacesuits, and development of Axiom Station as a successor to the ISS.

💡New and existing investors participated in the round, including Japan’s MUFG Bank and European strategic partner 4iG Group. Axiom said proceeds will support ongoing spacecraft, spacesuit, and orbital infrastructure programmes as NASA and industry move toward a commercial space station era.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: China Tightens Overseas Investment Rules and Expands Security Reviews; Malaysia Launches PKS@BURSA to Boost SME Listings; DayOne Data Centers Raises $4.5B Series C; K25.ai Secures $4M Strategic Investment From NewGenIVF Group; Panthera Growth Invests $30M In Innefu Labs; Goldman Sachs Upgrades Taiwan and South Korea On AI Chip Strength; Blackstone Closes $13.1B Asia PE Fund at Hard Cap; and China, Hong Kong Investors Barred From SpaceX IPO Participation

Environmental Sustainability: Australia Launches Regional Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Network; Japan Forms NTT Circurust for Copper Recycling and Urban Mining; Japan Expands CO₂-Free Electricity Supply to Toyota Suppliers; New Zealand eDNA Study Maps Lake Pathogen Presence; and Singapore Leads SEA Climate-Tech Funding in 2026

Aviation: Australia Calls for Regional Aviation Reform Over Costs and Competition; Jetstar Introduces Points Plus Pay For Business Class Upgrades; IATA and ICAO Expand Cooperation on SAF Tracking; SIA Engineering and Safran Launch $118M LEAP Engine MRO Joint Venture; and FPT, SATS Explore AI Collaboration in Aviation and Logistics

Advanced Air Mobility: China Develops AEE25 Electric Propulsion Engine for eVTOL Aircraft; China Debuts NAVEE WaveFly 5X Wing-In-Ground Craft for Low-Altitude Mobility; India Unveils BluJ Gen #2 Heavy-Payload eVTOL for Logistics Testing; Honda Completes First Flight of Full-Scale eVTOL Prototype; and Japan Builds Hydrogen Drone Port In Hiroshima For Island Logistics

Marine: China Unveils Green And Intelligent Vessel Designs at Posidonia; China, Mexico Sign Hybrid Train Carrier Ships Contract; ABB Partners Cochin Shipyard on Electric Harbour Tug Propulsion Systems; Singapore MPA, MSC Partner on Maritime Decarbonization and Digitalization; and South Korea Expands Dual-Fuel and Nuclear-Adjacent Ship Design Collaborations

Space: China Launches Partially Reusable Long March 12B Rocket On Maiden Flight; China Expands Qianfan Constellation To ~200 Satellites; Philippines, Japan Ink Space Cooperation Agreement on Satellites And Disaster Monitoring; Hanwha Aerospace Halts Operations After Fatal Plant Explosion Amid Safety Probe; and Spacecoin, DETI Partner on $100M Vietnam Satellite Blockchain Network

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Financing & Investments

Capital flows in Asia continue to concentrate around AI infrastructure, data centers, and strategic technology assets, while governments tighten cross-border investment controls and large institutions raise exposure to selective North Asian tech markets amid increasing valuation and regulatory fragmentation.

China

China has issued new regulations on outbound investment that will take effect on July 1, introducing stricter oversight of overseas investments and measures to protect national security and development interests. The rules require security reviews for overseas transactions that could affect national security and prohibit investors from exporting or using restricted or prohibited goods, technologies, services and related data without authorization. The regulation also allows authorities to impose countermeasures against foreign entities that restrict Chinese investors or are deemed to harm China’s interests, including limits on trade, investment and business activities.

💡Alongside the new safeguards, the rules encourage companies to pursue overseas investments based on market principles, participate in international cooperation and competition, and retain responsibility for investment decisions and risks. China also pledged to strengthen Belt and Road cooperation, expand bilateral and multilateral investment frameworks, and play a greater role in shaping international investment rules.

Malaysia

Malaysia’s Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP), through SME Corp. Malaysia, has launched the PKS@BURSA program to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) access capital markets through listings on Bursa Malaysia. The government has allocated MYR50 million ($12.4 million) for the initiative through 2030, with a target of supporting 200 SMEs. Participating companies may qualify for rebates of up to 20% on listing-related costs if they successfully list within five years.

💡The program includes an SME Listing Fund offering financing of MYR2 million to MYR5 million at a 5% annual interest rate for up to five years, as well as a capacity-building component covering training, advisory services and corporate governance support. Eligible firms must have at least a three-star SCORE rating from SME Corp. Malaysia, stable financial performance and demonstrated readiness for listing.

Singapore

Singapore-based DayOne Data Centers has completed the final closing of its Series C funding round at $4.5 billion,marking one of the largest capital raises by a data center company in the region. The round was led by existing investors Coatue and Hillhouse, with participation from new investors including the Indonesia Investment Authority and Achi Capital Partners.

💡DayOne said the proceeds will support its expansion across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong, Finland and Spain.

Singapore

Singapore-based AI livestreaming and prediction market platform K25.ai said Nasdaq-listed NewGenIVF Group has committed an additional $4 million strategic investment, bringing its total investment in the company to $6 million at an implied valuation of $100 million.

💡The investment deepens the partnership between the two firms and supports K25.ai’s plans for product development, licensing initiatives and regional expansion.

Singapore-India

Singapore-based growth equity firm Panthera Growth Partners has invested $30 million in Indian artificial intelligence company Innefu Labs through a combination of primary and secondary transactions from its second fund.

💡According to Panthera, the funding will be used for global expansion, research and development, enhancement of Innefu’s Agentic AI platform, development of robotics and physical AI capabilities, and sovereign AI infrastructure. Innefu provides AI platforms for defence, intelligence, law enforcement and enterprise clients in India.

Taiwan, South Korea & Hong Kong

Goldman Sachs said gains in Asian AI chip stocks could continue, though it warned that the risk of a pullback is rising as speculation increases. The bank upgraded Taiwan to overweight, raised its South Korea target, and downgraded Hong Kong-listed H-shares to market weight while maintaining an overweight stance on mainland China A-shares, citing stronger earnings momentum in North Asia’s technology sector.

💡Goldman raised its 12-month target for the MSCI Asia Pacific ex-Japan index to 1,080 from 990 and increased targets for Taiwan’s TAIEX and South Korea’s KOSPI. It said AI-driven earnings growth is concentrated in North Asia, while warning that the rally has narrowed and leverage in ETFs has increased, raising correction risk.


USA-Asia

Blackstone has closed its Asian private equity fund, Blackstone Capital Partners Asia III, at $13.1 billion, reaching its hard cap and surpassing its $10 billion target. The firm said it is its largest Asia-focused private equity fund to date.

💡Blackstone has invested more than $7 billion across 12 deals in Asia over the past 24 months. Recent transactions include backing Indian AI cloud platform Neysa in a $1.2 billion round, taking Japanese IT services provider TechnoPro private in a $3.5 billion deal, and investing in South Korea’s Juno salon franchise as part of its broader strategy targeting mid-market companies with international expansion potential.

USA-China

Investors in China and Hong Kong have been barred from participating in SpaceX’s planned initial public offering, according to Reuters citing Bloomberg News. The report said lead banks managing the offering instructed underwriting syndicate members not to accept orders from clients in China and Hong Kong, including private banking customers, citing regulatory and compliance considerations.

💡The restriction comes as foreign investment in China’s space sector remains tightly controlled and subject to military oversight. Reuters reported that SpaceX’s website and IPO marketing materials were inaccessible in mainland China and Hong Kong on Friday, following the start of the company’s investor roadshows in New York. Reuters said it was unable to independently verify Bloomberg’s report, while Goldman Sachs declined to comment and Morgan Stanley did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Environmental Sustainability

Climate action is increasingly focused on emissions measurement infrastructure, industrial material recovery, and supply chain decarbonization, while capital continues to cluster in early-stage clean technology, particularly mobility and grid-adjacent solutions.

Australia

The New South Wales Government has launched Australia’s first dedicated regional greenhouse gas monitoring network, with a pilot program based in the Upper Hunter aimed at independently measuring emissions from sources including industrial activity and mining. The system uses a network of high-precision cavity ring-down spectrometers installed at existing air quality stations to measure carbon dioxide, methane and water vapour at parts-per-billion sensitivity.

💡Officials said the network will improve emissions tracking, strengthen reporting transparency and support climate policy as Australia works toward net zero. The pilot, delivered by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water in partnership with the NSW EPA, may be expanded across the state following evaluation.

Japan

NTT and Mitsubishi Materials said they will establish a joint company on July 1 to promote recycling of metals from telecommunications equipment and other products, with a focus on copper amid rising global demand from data centres and electric vehicles. The new company, NTT Circurust, will initially recover metals from NTT Group IT equipment and process them through Mitsubishi Materials before selling them as recycled materials.

💡The venture plans to expand recovery services to other companies and individuals from the next fiscal year and will develop a digital platform to track the full recycling chain from collection to resale. The initiative aims to strengthen Japan’s domestic “urban mining” supply chain, improve traceability and reduce the outflow of scrap copper overseas.

Japan

Chubu Electric Power Miraiz Co has begun supplying a CO₂-free electricity service to 12 supplier companies of Toyota Group firm Tokai Rika, using environmental value sourced from renewable energy assets owned within the Toyota Group.The service draws on wind power generation in Kyushu operated by Eurus Energy Holdings, a Toyota Tsusho Group company, and combines non-fossil certificates to deliver electricity classified as effectively 100% renewable.

💡The initiative is structured to support supply chain decarbonization, with an estimated annual reduction of about 2,219 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. The contract term is up to five years, shorter than standard off-site power purchase agreements, which typically run for around 20 years, allowing customers more flexibility in meeting emissions reduction targets.

New Zealand

A study by researchers from Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki Lincoln University, Cawthron Institute, Earth Sciences New Zealand and James Cook University used environmental DNA (eDNA) to survey 287 lakes across New Zealand and identify potential bacterial pathogens. The analysis detected 412 putative pathogens, with 250 found only in water samples and 162 in both water and sediment, while none were found exclusively in sediment.

💡The researchers found higher pathogen presence in lakes with greater human and animal influence, though most detections were not at levels considered harmful. The study highlights eDNA as a low-cost tool for early detection and monitoring of lake health and biodiversity.

Singapore

Singapore led Southeast Asia’s climate-tech funding in 2026 year-to-date, accounting for about $872 million of the region’s roughly $1.1 billion in disclosed equity investment, according to Tracxn data covering 268 funding rounds. Indonesia followed with $162 million, while Vietnam recorded $53 million.

💡The report said Singapore-based companies featured prominently among the region’s most funded climate-tech firms, including Beam, Amperesand and Neuron. Across Southeast Asia, electric mobility dominated large funding rounds, while waste management and smart-grid technologies also attracted significant investment. The ecosystem remains largely early-stage, with most capital deployed at seed and Series A levels.

Aviation

Aviation activity is being shaped by structural cost and competition pressures in regional markets, alongside parallel moves to decarbonize operations through improved SAF tracking and reporting, while airlines and aerospace firms focus on monetization upgrades, MRO capacity expansion, and early-stage AI-driven efficiency partnerships.

Australia

Business NSW has called for urgent reform of regional aviation in New South Wales, warning that high costs and limited airline competition are increasing operating pressures for regional businesses. In a policy paper, the group said small and medium enterprises face higher costs, reduced market access and weaker supply chain links due to limited connectivity, noting that around 60% of regional and remote routes are served by a single airline.

💡The paper said regional airports are critical infrastructure for local economies and urged a coordinated NSW aviation framework to improve reliability, competition and affordability. It highlighted recent airline failures and the upcoming Western Sydney International Airport as key factors shaping future capacity, while an Australian Airports Association report noted that many regional airports are operating at a loss and called for more sustainable funding and greater competition to reduce fares.

Australia

Jetstar is introducing a “Points Plus Pay” option for international business class upgrade bids, allowing eligible Qantas Frequent Flyer members to combine Qantas Points and cash when bidding for upgrades on Boeing 787 international flights. The feature builds on the airline’s existing cash-only upgrade bidding system as it continues refurbishing its 787-8 fleet.

💡At launch, the option will apply to select routes such as Melbourne–Ho Chi Minh City, where business class upgrade bids start from $180 per person, with up to 80% of the bid payable in points.

Global

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have announced enhanced cooperation to improve transparency and integrity in tracking sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) deployment and progress toward net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The initiative focuses on strengthening data systems and collaboration between industry and governments to support credible measurement of emissions reductions from cleaner aviation energy sources.

💡The organizations will explore how SAF registries and related data can support ICAO’s Long-Term Aspirational Goal monitoring and reporting framework, as well as broader fuel accounting systems for international aviation.

Singapore-France

SIA Engineering Company and Safran Aircraft Engines have signed a joint venture agreement to establish a CFM LEAP engine maintenance, repair and overhaul facility in Singapore, aimed at supporting rising global demand for LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engine services. The new company will integrate existing quick-turn maintenance operations in Singapore and expand into a full-service engine MRO capability as part of Safran’s global support network.

💡Under the agreement, Safran Aircraft Engines will hold a 51% stake in the joint venture, with SIA Engineering holding 49%. The partners plan total contributions of up to $118 million to develop the facility, subject to regulatory approvals.

Vietnam-Singapore

Vietnam-headquartered FPT has signed a memorandum of understanding with Singapore-based SATS to explore collaboration in artificial intelligence and digital innovation across Singapore, Vietnam and the wider Asia-Pacific region. Under the agreement, the companies will assess opportunities to combine SATS’ experience in ground handling and in-flight catering with FPT’s capabilities in AI and digital transformation.

💡The collaboration remains at an exploratory stage and is intended to provide a framework for future discussions on AI-driven solutions for the aviation and logistics sectors in the region.

Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility is advancing through parallel progress in electric propulsion, experimental low-altitude vehicles, and early-stage logistics-focused eVTOL deployment, while infrastructure and hydrogen systems begin emerging to support commercial drone operations and regional connectivity use cases.

China

The Aero Engine Corporation of China’s AEE25 electric propulsion engine, developed in Wuxi in Jiangsu province, rolled off the production line on Thursday. The engine is intended for TCab Tech’s E20 eVTOL aircraft.

💡According to AECC, the AEE25 achieves a torque density of 40 newton-meters per kilogram, the highest among China’s publicly disclosed 200-kW-class aviation electric engines. The system is currently undergoing airworthiness certification alongside the aircraft program.

China

NAVEE, a global intelligent outdoor mobility brand, has debuted the WaveFly 5X, a wing-in-ground (WIG) craft that uses ground effect for low-altitude flight above water. The aircraft operates 30–50 cm above water, reaches speeds of up to 85 km/h, carries up to 140 kg, and has a range of about 80 km. Built with a dual tandem-wing structure and carbon-fibre body, it is positioned as a consumer-oriented mobility product within the emerging low-altitude economy.

💡The launch marks NAVEE’s expansion beyond land-based transport into water-surface mobility, with the product forming part of its broader intelligent mobility ecosystem. The event at Dong Taihu also saw multiple distributors sign letters of intent for international market introduction.

India

BluJ Aerospace has unveiled “Gen #2”, a heavy-payload eVTOL aircraft designed for logistics and future mobility applications. The company said the aircraft is the first built on its VANTIS platform architecture, a scalable design intended to support multiple VTOL variants for cargo transport, regional connectivity and potential passenger use.

💡Developed over four years of in-house research, Gen #2 is currently undergoing flight testing and is designed for payloads above 200 kg within a 500-kg maximum take-off weight. BluJ said the battery-powered lift-plus-cruise aircraft will initially be used for pilot projects and logistics trials, following its earlier Gen #1 demonstrator, which achieved India’s first public flight of a 500-kg-class eVTOL.

Japan

Honda has completed the first flight of its full-scale eVTOL prototype. The maiden flight took place on April 1, and was announced in May.

💡The uncrewed 7,000 lb (3,175 kg) prototype, called F1, was airborne for around 90 seconds at Honda’s research and development centre in San Luis Obispo, California.

Japan

Robodex and Tokyu Land Corporation are building Japan’s first permanent hydrogen drone port in Hiroshima Prefecture to connect the mainland with Osakikamijima and nearby Seto Inland Sea islands. The facility, located within Tokyu Land’s LOGI’Q Hiroshima logistics complex, will be operated by Robodex and support hydrogen drone operations with a round-trip range of about 35 km.

💡The companies said the project aims to improve island logistics currently reliant on ferries that can be disrupted by weather and carry higher costs. The hydrogen system is designed to enable faster refuelling and operations for deliveries such as medical supplies and daily goods, while also supporting emergency response use cases.

Marine

Marine development is being shaped by a clear shift toward decarbonization and fuel flexibility, with increasing adoption of electric propulsion, alternative fuels, and hybrid vessel architectures alongside growing collaboration on digitalization and next-generation ship design across major shipbuilding hubs.

China

At the Posidonia International Maritime Exhibition in Athens, China State Shipbuilding Corporation’s Marine Design & Research Institute of China (MARIC) unveiled five new green and intelligent vessel designs spanning tankers, bulk carriers, container ships, and gas carriers.

💡Key designs include a 33,500 DWT fully electric product/chemical tanker with a 12.5-knot service speed, a 6,500 TEU ammonia-ready container ship, and a 90,000 m³ VLGC capable of transporting LPG and liquid ammonia with dual-fuel propulsion. MARIC also presented an 180,000 DWT bulk carrier with multi-fuel options and wind-assisted propulsion, and a 220,000 DWT Suezmax-class crude tanker optimised for canal transit efficiency.

China-Mexico

CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding has signed a contract with Mexican transport group GMXT for two next-generation train carriers, designed by China Shipbuilding Trading and SDARI. The vessels will be built with a single-engine, twin-propeller diesel-electric hybrid system aimed at cutting fuel consumption per ton-nautical mile by around 50% through more efficient engine loading.

💡The 180-metre ships will feature double-deck rail loading with capacity for 136 rail cars (about 2,700 metres of track) and enhanced clearance for taller 17-ft vehicles. Although similar in size to earlier SDARI designs already operating in the Gulf of Mexico, the new vessels include upgraded propulsion and ship–shore systems. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with delivery expected in 2028.

India

ABB has partnered with Cochin Shipyard to supply power and propulsion systems for two electric harbour tugs being built in India. The vessels, which will be delivered to Polestar Maritime in 2027, are part of Phase 1 of India’s Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) and will operate at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), the country’s largest container port.

💡ABB will provide electrical propulsion, automation, and energy management systems, including its Onboard DC Grid™ platform and PEMS™ system to optimise battery use and manage fluctuating power demand. The company will also supply its remote diagnostics platform for condition monitoring.

Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to deepen collaboration in maritime decarbonization, digitalization, innovation, and workforce development.

💡The two sides will explore new shipping routes and services, support adoption of alternative marine fuels including bio-LNG, and improve vessel energy efficiency and port operations through digitalisation initiatives. They will also collaborate on workforce development, including internships and scholarships under MaritimeONE, reinforcing Singapore’s role as a global maritime hub focused on sustainability and operational efficiency.

South Korea

Lloyd’s Register (LR) has expanded its collaboration with major Korean shipyards and shipping firms through a series of agreements announced at Posidonia 2026. The deals include Approval in Principle for an 88,000 m³ dual-fuel VLGC with DH Shipbuilding, along with new vessel concepts focused on LNG logistics, tanker efficiency, and next-generation fuels.

Other initiatives include a 22,000 m³ LNG bunker vessel with K Shipbuilding, a Suezmax tanker design incorporating passive air lubrication technology, and joint work with Hyundai Heavy Industries, KSOE, Hyundai Glovis, and KAERI on applying small modular reactor technology to a pure car and truck carrier.

💡Additional projects cover a floating data centre concept with Samsung Heavy Industries and a wind-assisted MR tanker design, alongside LNG carrier developments featuring hybrid electric propulsion and NAV1-compliant container ship standards.

Space

Space activity is characterized by accelerating satellite constellation buildouts and early reusable launch testing in China, expanding international cooperation in Earth observation and disaster monitoring, while also highlighting industrial safety risks and emerging private-sector models combining satellite infrastructure with digital network services.

China

China launched its Long March 12B rocket for the first time on 1 June from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert, marking the debut of a partially reusable launch vehicle. The liftoff occurred without advance airspace closure notices, and the rocket deployed two satellites for the Qianfan (“Thousand Sails”) internet megaconstellation into low Earth orbit.

💡The mission did not include an attempt to recover the first stage, with reuse testing expected in later flights. The Long March 12B, which uses a configuration similar to SpaceX’s Falcon 9, is part of China’s broader push into reusable launch systems and follows other recent domestic efforts to develop partially reusable orbital rockets.low-Earth-orbit communications networks.

China

China expanded its Qianfan (“Thousand Sails”) broadband constellation this week with two Long March launches that added 36 satellites to orbit. The Long March 6A lifted off from Taiyuan on 4 June with 18 satellites, followed by a Long March 8 launch from Hainan on 5 June carrying another 18, according to China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.

💡With the latest deployments, Qianfan has reached about 200 satellites in orbit as the programme accelerates its launch cadence toward a planned large-scale network. The constellation, led by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, continues to rely on Long March rockets while commercial launch activity also increases across China’s broader space sector.

Philippines & Japan

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has signed a Joint Declaration of Interest in Space Cooperation. The agreement covers potential collaboration in satellite missions and data applications, space exploration and human spaceflight, and space sustainability.

💡The two sides highlighted existing cooperation in disaster monitoring and satellite data sharing, including JAXA support through the Sentinel Asia program and use of ALOS-2 SAR data for mapping volcanic and weather-related events in the Philippines. The partnership also extends to education initiatives under JAXA’s Kibo program aboard the International Space Station, with both agencies signalling plans to further expand cooperation in environmental monitoring, disaster response and space technology development.

South Korea

Hanwha Aerospace has temporarily shut down operations across its major domestic facilities after a deadly explosion at its Daejeon plant killed five workers earlier this week. The company suspended non-essential production from Thursday to Friday to carry out emergency safety inspections and training, marking its first group-wide operational halt since its 2023 restructuring.

💡South Korean police and labor authorities also raided the Daejeon site, nearby R&D centers, and the Seoul headquarters to investigate the cause of the blast and compliance with safety procedures. The incident occurred at a facility producing propulsion systems for rockets and missiles, prompting inspections across nine sites handling propellants, munitions, and other high-risk defense manufacturing operations.

USA-Vietnam

Spacecoin, a blockchain-enabled low Earth orbit satellite network provider, has signed an exclusive memorandum of understanding with Vietnamese technology firm DETI Technology to deploy decentralized satellite telecommunications, sovereign routing, blockchain and edge AI infrastructure in Vietnam. The companies said the project is targeting at least $100 million in annual revenue once commercial operations begin, with a focus on serving mobile operators Mobifone and Gtel.

💡Under the agreement, DETI will hold exclusive rights to develop and distribute the technologies in Vietnam for three years following official operational licensing. The deployment will combine satellite connectivity, sovereign data routing, edge AI processing and blockchain-based network coordination

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: Alipay Expands AI Payments Ecosystem; Hydrogen Data Center Pilot Thailand; Animoca Backs AI Trading Protocol; De Nora Acquires BW Water; Genesia Ventures Closes $113M Fund; Malaysia Revises Equity Listing Rules; GIC Temasek Join Anthropic Round; TECO Expands Malaysia Data Infrastructure; Quanta Expands Vietnam Manufacturing Capacity; and Vietnam Considers Crypto Collateral Loans

Environmental Sustainability: Pacific Channel Expands Climate Portfolio Asia; Australia Funds Vietnam Climate VC Growth; Standard Chartered Issues HKD Green Bond; India Plans $1B Renewable Trust; Malaysia Launches Social Impact Exchange; Temasek Reports High Portfolio Emissions; and DDSP Funds Johor Green Data Center

Aviation: China Advances Jet Engine Blade Tech; Air China Issues Short-Term Paper; CASC GA Telesis Expand Cooperation; India Cuts Aviation Fuel Export Duties; VINCI Acquires Fletcher Construction NZ; Japan Airlines Tightens Alcohol Rules; and AirAsia MOVE Explores Crypto Travel Payments

Advanced Air Mobility: Volant Aerotech Completes eVTOL Transition Flight; BluJ Aerospace Unveils Gen 2 eVTOL; Terra Drone Deploys Indoor Inspection System; and France Thales Builds National UTM Platform

Marine: India Plans Blue Bond Maritime Funding; Indonesia Centralizes Commodity Exports Control; NYK Launches Companywide AI Initiative; Pakistan Reopens Offshore Energy Exploration; AIIB Funds Philippine Port Expansion; PIL Executive Chairman Steps Aside; and Samsung Files FMC Complaint Over Shipping Charges

Space: China Shenzhou 21 Crew Returns After 210 Days; China Returns Tiangong Experiment Samples; India Balloon Aerospace Launches Near-Space Flight; JAXA Retires HTV-X1 Cargo Mission; Italy-Japan Launch Space Cooperation Forum; and Hanwha Aerospace Eyes Canada Launch Investment

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Financing & Investments

Capital is rapidly clustering around AI-agent commerce, data-center and energy infrastructure, and strategic cross-border deals, while sovereign wealth funds and regulators simultaneously scale participation in AI firms and tighten capital-market frameworks.

China

Alipay has introduced a full-stack AI payment solution to partners across industries, along with two new services: an AI Wallet and Token Pay, aimed at supporting the growth of the agentic economy. The launch builds on its existing consumer-facing AI Pay product and business-focused AI payment infrastructure, extending its system for AI-enabled transactions.

💡The AI Wallet allows users to monitor and control transactions executed by AI agents, while Token Pay is designed for AI companies to handle subscription payments, token top-ups and related services. Alipay also unveiled an Agentic Commerce Trust Protocol developed with partners to support secure AI-to-platform interactions.

China-Thailand

U Power Limited said its controlled joint venture, Hydro Data JV, has partnered with CEWA Group and Jiangsu Guofu Hydrogen Energy Equipment Co. to develop an integrated energy solution for a planned 100MW data center project in Rayong, Thailand. The project will begin with a 3MW pilot phase to assess the technology and commercial viability before potential expansion to full capacity.

💡Under the agreement, Hydro Data JV will provide AI-enabled energy management and system integration services, while Guofu Hydrogen Energy will supply power generation equipment and CEWA Group will oversee local infrastructure development. U Power said it expects to establish a Thailand subsidiary by the end of July, with Hydro Data JV operations scheduled to begin within 90 days thereafter


Hong Kong-Cayman Islands

Hong Kong-based Animoca Brands has invested $1 million in Superior.Trade, an AI-driven trading protocol, through its recently launched Minds Investment Programme. The investment, made alongside affiliated entities, marks the first backing under the programme, which was introduced in May with a commitment of up to $10 million to support projects building on Animoca Brands’ Minds AI agent platform.

💡Superior.Trade enables users to set trading parameters and use AI agents to assist with strategy development, historical backtesting and trade execution. The platform connects agent wallets to the Hyperliquid trading network while separating trade execution from asset custody.


Italy-Singapore

Italy’s Industrie De Nora has agreed to acquire Singapore-based BW Water for $61.5 million to $66.5 million, expanding its water treatment and engineering capabilities. The company said the deal strengthens its position by combining its technology base with BW Water’s system integration and turnkey project delivery capabilities, while deepening its presence in Southeast Asia.

💡BW Water operates across Asia, the US and Europe, serving sectors including semiconductors, mining and pharmaceuticals. De Nora expects about $7 million in annual cost synergies over three years. The transaction is expected to close on July 1, subject to regulatory approval.


Japan

Japan-based venture capital firm Genesia Ventures has completed the final close of its fourth fund at $113 million, targeting seed-stage startups in Japan, Southeast Asia and India. The fund is backed primarily by domestic and international institutional investors and financial institutions, with the firm planning a more concentrated investment approach than in previous funds.

💡Genesia Ventures said it will focus on startups driven by long-term structural shifts rather than specific sectors. The firm has invested in areas including healthcare, renewable energy, supply chains and financial services, with Southeast Asian portfolio companies including Vietnam-based Buymed, KAMEREO and Fundiin. Its notable exits include the 2024 IPO of Timee and the sale of HRBrain to EQT.


Malaysia

Malaysia’s Securities Commission (SC) has revised its Equity Guidelines to improve access to public listings and strengthen the distinction between its market segments. The regulator said the Main Market will remain the platform for larger, established companies, while the ACE Market will continue serving small and mid-sized firms. The changes follow a public consultation completed in December 2025 and will take effect for the Main Market on June 3.

💡The revised framework introduces higher profit requirements, stronger financial reporting standards, greater flexibility in operating cash flow assessments and broader eligibility for infrastructure-related listings on the Main Market. For the ACE Market, the SC will require a minimum two-year post-listing track record before transfers to the Main Market, remove certain sponsorship and moratorium exemptions, and introduce minimum public share allocation requirements.

Singapore-USA

Singapore sovereign wealth funds GIC and Temasek have participated in Anthropic’s $65 billion Series H funding round,which values the artificial intelligence company at $965 billion post-money. GIC said it joined as a co-lead investor alongside Capital Group, Coatue, D1 Capital Partners, ICONIQ and XN, while Temasek participated as a significant investor. The round was led by Altimeter Capital, Dragoneer, Greenoaks and Sequoia Capital.

💡Anthropic, developer of the Claude family of AI models, said the proceeds will be used to support AI safety and interpretability research, expand computing infrastructure and scale products and partnerships.

Taiwan-Malaysia

Taiwan-based TECO Electric & Machinery will acquire a 78% stake in Malaysian engineering firm Dynaciate for MYR200 million ($50.8 million), expanding its presence in Southeast Asia’s AI data center infrastructure market. TECO said the deal is expected to close by end-August, after which Dynaciate will operate as a manufacturing and engineering hub for modular data center projects in the region.

💡Dynaciate, based in Johor Bahru, specializes in modular prefabrication and electromechanical fabrication, with facilities in Pasir Gudang and a workforce of 265. TECO said the acquisition complements its earlier purchase of Malaysia’s NCL Energy and will help form a regional engineering platform targeting expansion into Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Taiwan-Vietnam

Taiwan-based Quanta Computer has registered to increase its investment in Vietnam’s Ninh Binh province to $240 million from $120 million. The company, which received investment approval for its project at My Thuan Industrial Zone in 2023, manufactures laptops, desktop computers and electronic components for export.

💡Quanta’s first factory began operations in 2024 and currently has annual production capacity of about 4.5 million computers and one million electronic component units. Under the expansion plan, the company will build a second factory, with operations expected to start in 2028, increasing total annual capacity to nine million computers and 1.5 million electronic component units.

Vietnam

Vietnam is planning to allow digital and virtual assets to be used as loan collateral for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) under a draft amendment to its SME support law. The proposal, led by the Ministry of Finance, would expand eligible collateral for lending to include movable and intangible assets, intellectual property, and digital or virtual assets, among others.

💡The draft also updates the definition of SMEs and is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly in October 2026 for approval. SMEs currently account for over 98% of registered businesses in Vietnam but receive a relatively small share of total credit, according to the ministry.

Environmental Sustainability

Green and blended finance is expanding across Asia through bonds, VC acquisitions, and impact platforms, but systemic emissions reductions are lagging as major institutional portfolios and infrastructure-heavy economies continue to face decarbonization constraints.

Australia

Venture capital firm Pacific Channel has acquired ENGIE Factory Asia-Pacific Pte Ltd along with its stakes in seven early-stage climate-tech companies spanning areas such as solar energy, cooling systems, climate markets, sustainable housing, bioenergy and data center efficiency. The firm said its Singapore operations will be rebranded as Pacific Channel Climate Ventures and will serve as its regional base for Southeast Asia.

💡Pacific Channel said the acquisition expands its climate-tech investment platform across the Asia-Pacific, extending its early-stage investing model into Southeast Asia.


Australia-Vietnam

The Australian Government has committed up to $10 million to Do Ventures’ Fund II to support climate-focused businesses in Vietnam and strengthen the country’s climate investment market. The investment, made through Australian Development Investments (ADI), will back early- and growth-stage SMEs in areas linked to energy transition and climate adaptation, including manufacturing, sustainable consumption and AI-enabled solutions.

💡Do Ventures, a Vietnam-focused early-stage VC firm founded in 2020, will also work with ADI to strengthen ESG practices and impact measurement. The Australian Embassy in Vietnam said the commitment is its first under ADI’s Vietnam investment window and aims to mobilize private capital into climate solutions while supporting gender diversity in the investment sector.

Hong Kong

Standard Chartered has issued a HKD2 billion green bond, marking the first public HKD-denominated green bond from a Financial Institutions Group issuer. Demand exceeded HKD3.8 billion, reflecting strong investor appetite and expanding the bank’s Hong Kong dollar investor base.

💡Proceeds will be used to finance renewable energy, green buildings and circular economy projects, primarily across Asia.


India

India’s KPI Green Energy is planning to raise up to $1 billion through a renewable infrastructure investment trust backed by solar, wind and hybrid power assets.The proposed trust is expected to be launched toward the end of the 2027/2028 financial year and will be supported by an operational portfolio of about 1.5 GW to 2 GW.

💡The initiative comes as India continues to scale renewable capacity while still relying heavily on coal for baseload power.

Malaysia

Malaysia’s Securities Commission (SC) has launched the Social Exchange, a regulated platform aimed at strengthening social impact financing under the country’s capital market development agenda. The initiative includes the introduction of Impakrintas, the first platform of its kind in Malaysia, which allows non-profit organizations (NPOs) to raise funds for approved social impact projects in a transparent setting.

💡Operational since February 19, Impakrintas has onboarded eight NPOs working across areas such as healthcare access, youth education, food security and environmental sustainability


Singapore

Temasek reported portfolio emissions of 21 million tonnes in FY2025, only slightly below its 2010 baseline of 22 million tonnes and well above its 2030 target of 11 million tonnes. More than 80% of these emissions come from five holdings, including Singapore Airlines and Sembcorp Industries, which together account for the largest share of the portfolio’s footprint.

💡The firm said it remains committed to its 2050 net-zero ambition but acknowledged that its 2030 target is increasingly difficult to achieve given sectoral constraints in aviation and power generation. While sustainability-aligned investments rose to $46 billion in FY2025, Temasek said emissions reductions are being slowed by continued reliance on carbon-intensive infrastructure and rising global energy demand.

Singapore-Malaysia

Digital Decarbonization Solutions Platform (DDSP) has secured $283 million in green financing to support the development of a 45MW hyperscale data center campus in Sedenak Tech Park, Johor, Malaysia. The Singapore-based company said the facility will be built for a global hyperscale customer and will incorporate closed-loop liquid cooling technology designed to support high-density computing and artificial intelligence workloads.

💡The financing was arranged by CTBC Bank, MUFG and Standard Chartered as mandated lead arrangers, underwriters and bookrunners, with Entie Commercial Bank serving as a mandated lead arranger. The Johor project is part of DDSP’s 1.1GW Asia-Pacific development pipeline spanning Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand and Taiwan. DDSP said the transaction was structured as a green loan.

Aviation

The sector is simultaneously upgrading industrial capabilities and aftermarket partnerships in China, adjusting fiscal and operational frameworks in India and Japan, and consolidating assets in Europe, reflecting a broader push to stabilize and modernize post-pandemic aviation value chains.

China

China has reported progress in developing single-crystal turbine blade production technology for aircraft engines, according to state media. The capability is positioned as a key advancement in high-temperature engine components used in the “hot section” of jet engines, where durability and heat resistance are critical to performance and efficiency.

The development reportedly involves a nickel-based superalloy known as DD6 from the AECC Beijing Institute of Aeronautical Materials. Officials claim the material approaches or matches leading international standards, though the performance has not been independently verified.

💡The announcement places China among a small group of countries with similar manufacturing capabilities, while broader industry challenges remain around consistency, certification standards, and industrial-scale production reliability.

China

Air China has listed a CNY2 billion ($294.3 million) ultra-short-term commercial paper on China’s interbank bond market. Trading begun on May 19. The 30-day unsecured note carries a coupon rate of 1.38% and matures on June 17, 2026.

💡The issuance, designated “26 Air China SCP003,” was issued on May 15 and forms part of the airline’s short-term funding activities in the domestic debt market.

China-USA

GA Telesis has signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with China Aviation Supplies Co. (CASC) at the MRO Greater China exhibition held on May 26. The partnership is aimed at expanding collaboration in aviation materials supply, component leasing and distribution, MRO services, and overseas asset management.

💡CASC, China’s central procurement agency for commercial aircraft and aerospace equipment, and GA Telesis said the cooperation will leverage their respective platforms to strengthen aviation lifecycle and aftermarket services.

India

India will reduce export duties on petrol, diesel, and aviation turbine fuel starting June 1. Petrol exports will be taxed at 1.5 rupees per litre, diesel at 13.5 rupees, and aviation fuel at 9.5 rupees.

💡The rates are adjusted every two weeks based on global oil price trends. The government said domestic excise duties on petrol and diesel remain unchanged.

France-New Zealand

VINCI Construction has completed its acquisition of New Zealand-based Fletcher Construction, following the deal announced in January 2026. Fletcher Construction, a subsidiary of Fletcher Building, has more than 2,300 employees and generates about €630 million (NZ$1.3 billion) in annual revenue, with operations spanning transport, ports, airports, and energy-related infrastructure.

💡The acquisition expands VINCI Construction’s presence in New Zealand alongside its existing local businesses, including HEB Construction, SOL, and Wharehine.


Japan

Japan Airlines has banned cabin crew from drinking alcohol during layovers before return flights after a new alcohol-related incident involving a flight attendant.

💡The airline said a Hiroshima–Tokyo flight was delayed by about 40 minutes after a crew member violated internal rules prohibiting alcohol consumption within 12 hours of duty. The attendant had tested positive for alcohol before departure but did not report it.

Malaysia-Kazakhstan

AirAsia MOVE, Intebix and the Solana Foundation have signed a letter of intent to explore integrating the Evo (KTZE) tenge-denominated stablecoin into the AirAsia MOVE platform in Kazakhstan. The collaboration aims to assess a blockchain-based payment option for travel bookings, combining AirAsia MOVE’s distribution network, Intebix’s licensed digital asset infrastructure and Solana’s blockchain technology.

💡The parties will evaluate technical design, settlement processes and regulatory requirements for a potential pilot within Kazakhstan’s regulatory sandbox. The initiative is intended to test real-world use cases for stablecoin payments in travel, with the goal of enabling digital asset-based transactions for flights and hotels if compliance and feasibility conditions are met.

Advanced Air Mobility

eVTOL development and drone ecosystems are transitioning from testing to early operational frameworks, with China and India advancing flight validation while Singapore and Japan build enabling air traffic and inspection infrastructure alongside growing institutional adoption.

China

Volant Aerotech said its VE25-100 passenger eVTOL has completed a piloted transition flight test in Zigong, Sichuan Province. The company stated the flight involved switching between vertical takeoff and forward flight modes and described it as a milestone in the aircraft’s development program. It also said the test provided validation of elements of the flight control system, propulsion system, and aerodynamic configuration during the conversion phase.

💡The announcement follows recent fundraising activity, including a Series C+ round raising nearly 1 billion yuan after a prior financing round in April.

India

BluJ Aerospace has unveiled its Gen #2 eVTOL prototype built on its VANTIS platform for vertically integrated aerial systems. The company said the fully battery-powered aircraft is currently in flight testing following earlier demonstrator work, including a public flight of its Gen #1 prototype.

💡The Gen #2 design uses a lift-plus-cruise configuration and is intended to carry a payload of over 200 kg with a maximum takeoff weight of 500 kg. BluJ Aerospace said the platform is designed to scale to larger aircraft classes, including heavy-lift and long-range variants, as it advances development of its advanced air mobility systems.

Japan

Terra Drone Corporation has delivered its indoor inspection drone, “Terra Xross 1,” to Tokyo Power Technology Co., Ltd., a TEPCO Group company. The drone will be used for inspections and patrols at power plant-related indoor and confined facilities.

💡The company said the system is designed for GPS-denied environments and uses LiDAR and visual sensors to support stable indoor flight. It added the platform is intended to improve safety by reducing worker exposure to hazardous areas and increase efficiency in inspection operations. Terra Drone said it plans to expand use of the system across infrastructure maintenance applications.

Singapore-France

Singapore’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAS) has selected France-based Thales to build a national system for managing unmanned aircraft traffic, aimed at supporting the safe growth of drone operations across the country. The project will be delivered by a consortium led by Thales, alongside Singapore-based Deeeplabs, which will assist with deployment and operational support.

💡The system will provide a centralized digital platform for drone registration, flight authorization, mission planning and real-time tracking. Built on Thales’ UTM technology, it is intended to simplify approvals while improving oversight of expanding drone activity across sectors such as logistics, infrastructure inspection, maritime operations and emergency response.

Marine

Global shipping and maritime systems are increasingly shaped by tighter state resource controls, expanding blue/green financing instruments, and rising digital and legal frictions, signaling a shift toward more regulated and financially diversified maritime trade infrastructure.

India

India’s Sagarmala Finance Corporation plans to raise up to 10 billion rupees ($105 million), including a greenshoe option, through what would be the country’s first blue bond. The issuance is intended to diversify the lender’s funding base and support maritime and coastal infrastructure development.

💡Proceeds will finance projects including ports, shipbuilding, inland waterways and coastal connectivity networks. The planned deal would expand India’s sustainable finance market beyond green bonds, creating a dedicated funding channel for ocean- and water-related infrastructure.

Indonesia

Indonesia has announced a policy requiring all exports of key commodities—including coal, palm oil and ferroalloys—to be routed through a state-appointed export entity. President Prabowo Subianto said the measure is intended to reduce revenue losses linked to under-invoicing and transfer pricing, and to strengthen oversight of natural resource sales.

💡The government said the designated exporter will be overseen by the sovereign wealth fund Danantara, with a transition period allowing existing arrangements to continue temporarily under monitoring. Indonesia, a major global supplier of thermal coal and palm oil, will also require exporters to place all foreign exchange earnings in domestic state-owned banks starting June 1, as part of broader resource revenue controls.


Japan

Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) has launched a companywide artificial intelligence initiative called “SAIL with AI Compass” aimed at expanding AI use across operations and developing AI-skilled employees. The programme is part of the company’s medium-term management plan and is designed to support business transformation without significantly increasing headcount.

💡NYK said the initiative includes internal training through “NYK AI College,” knowledge-sharing systems, operational use-case development, and incentives for AI adoption. The company added it plans to integrate AI into daily workflows to improve efficiency and strengthen its core shipping and logistics businesses while exploring new growth areas.

Pakistan

Pakistan has reopened offshore oil and gas exploration after an 18-year hiatus, awarding production sharing agreements for 23 deepwater blocks under its Offshore Bid Round 2025. The licences span 54,600 square kilometres across the Indus and Makran basins and include commitments for seismic and geological work.

💡The government said the initial phase secures about $82 million in investment, with potential for up to $1 billion if exploration advances to drilling. State-owned and private operators, including Mari Energies Limited and Pakistan Petroleum Limited, are among the main participants, with early offshore drilling plans already being developed for 2026.


Philippines

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank) has approved a $300 million loan to support expansion and modernization projects at terminals operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc. in the Philippines. The financing will fund upgrades at the Manila International Container Terminal, the South Luzon Container Terminal in Batangas, and the Mindanao Container Terminal.

💡The project is expected to raise handling capacity across the three sites while improving efficiency and reducing emissions through the introduction of electric quay cranes and lower-carbon yard equipment.


Singapore

Pacific International Lines (PIL) executive chairman SS Teo is taking a leave of absence from his role, along with several other positions in Singapore institutions, as he prepares to respond to a US Justice Department case involving alleged container price-fixing. The company is the world’s 12th-largest container shipping line.

💡The move follows US indictments accusing multiple container manufacturers and executives of coordinating to restrict supply and inflate prices between 2019 and 2024. Teo, who is also named in the case alongside executives from other firms, said he is stepping back to focus on the legal proceedings. The company involved, Singamas Container Holdings, has denied the allegations and said it will contest the case.

USA-Taiwan

Samsung Electronics America has filed a complaint with the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) against Taiwanese carrier Wan Hai Lines, alleging improper detention and demurrage charges tied to “store door” shipments handled between 2020 and 2022. The FMC has accepted the filing, which centers on more than $1.2 million in disputed fees.

💡Samsung argued the charges were levied despite inland transport falling under the carrier’s control, and claims Wan Hai violated provisions of the U.S. Shipping Act by continuing to invoice penalties during pandemic-related congestion. The case adds to a broader wave of FMC disputes over container line billing practices during the COVID-19 supply chain disruption, with a ruling expected to proceed through 2027.

Space

Space activity is advancing into sustained operationalization and geopolitical-commercial blending, as China extends long-duration human missions and scientific returns while Japan, Europe, and partners deepen collaboration and infrastructure development across civil and dual-use space systems.

China

Shenzhou 21 mission has concluded with the safe return of its three astronauts to Earth on May 29, landing at the Dongfeng site in Inner Mongolia after 210 days in orbit aboard China’s Tiangong space station. The mission set a new national record for the longest Chinese crewed spaceflight and involved a return aboard a different spacecraft than the one used for launch due to an earlier orbital issue affecting the original return vehicle.

💡Chinese space officials said the crew conducted multiple spacewalks and completed experiments in microgravity physics, materials science, life sciences, and space medicine during their extended stay. The return sequence followed a schedule reshuffle after a suspected debris impact damaged a capsule window earlier in the program, leading to a reassignment of return vehicles and an uncrewed replacement launch. The crew was relieved in orbit by the incoming Shenzhou 23 mission.

China

Scientific experiment samples from China’s Tiangong space station have been returned to Earth aboard the Shenzhou 22 mission spacecraft and transferred to research institutions for analysis. The payload, weighing about 41 kilograms, includes samples from 23 experiments spanning life sciences, materials science, and combustion studies.

💡Researchers at the Space Utilization Engineering and Technology Center under the Chinese Academy of Sciences have begun examining biological samples such as artificial embryos and brain organoids to study development under microgravity. Other materials, including titanium alloys, advanced steels, and single-crystal compounds, will be analyzed for structural and compositional changes, while combustion samples will be used to study flame behavior and nanoparticle formation in space conditions.

India

Red Balloon Aerospace has successfully launched its VISTA super-pressure balloon from Indira Gandhi Stadium in Vijayawada as part of “Mission SANA,” reaching an altitude of about 25 km. The flight carried commercial payloads from seven domestic and international partners and was described by the company as a validation of its indigenous stratospheric platform capabilities.

💡The company said the VISTA system is designed for long-duration near-space operations and can support applications such as imaging, communications, and environmental monitoring. It added that the platform is intended to enable rapid deployment of payloads at lower cost than orbital systems, with further missions planned to expand capabilities and support additional commercial use cases.

Japan

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency said it has completed operations of its HTV-X1 resupply spacecraft after the vehicle re-entered Earth’s atmosphere over the South Pacific on Tuesday night Japan time. The spacecraft was launched aboard an H3 rocket in October last year and delivered supplies to the International Space Station before continuing extended in-orbit operations.

💡JAXA said HTV-X1 conducted post-ISS missions, including deployment of a microsatellite, tests of lightweight antenna panels, and trials of next-generation solar cell technologies. The agency said all planned objectives were achieved, with the HTV-X designed as an upgraded cargo vehicle capable of carrying out additional experiments in orbit after completing station resupply duties.


Japan-Italy

The Embassy of Italy in Tokyo has supported the launch of the first Italy–Japan Space Consultations, a new bilateral forum aimed at expanding cooperation in commercial, industrial, scientific, and security-related space activities. The initiative is coordinated by Italy’s Presidency of the Council of Ministers and involves government and industry stakeholders from both countries.

💡The Italian delegation, including representatives from the foreign affairs and industry ministries and the Italian Space Agency, is meeting counterparts from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agencyalongside industry events at SPEXA – Space Business Expo. The consultations are intended to deepen ties between Italian space firms and Japan’s growing space sector, which is being driven by programs such as the H3 launch vehicle and Artemis-related activities

South Korea-Canada

Hanwha Aerospace said it plans to invest in developing launch capability in Canada as part of a broader proposal linked to Ottawa’s effort to establish domestic spaceport infrastructure. The comments follow Canada’s lease of a site in Nova Scotia aimed at supporting future commercial launches, as the country seeks to reduce reliance on foreign launch providers.

💡The company said the proposed launch investment would support “Indigenous launch” capability in Canada and could involve orbital trajectories passing over South Korea, depending on launch configuration. The remarks were made alongside Hanwha’s broader participation in Canada’s defence procurement discussions, including a competing bid for submarines, with the government expected to make a decision by the end of June.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: August Robotics Raises $30M Series B; Pluang Secures $10M Funding and Adds Indonesian Equities; TDK to Acquire Linergy in $240M Deal; GXBank Raises MSME Lending Limits; SkyeChip Surges on Malaysia IPO Debut; Malaysia Tightens Digital Asset Rules; Doozy Robotics Expands Globally; AVC Technology Builds $600M Vietnam Plant; and Amazon Commits $33B Southeast Asia Expansion

Environmental Sustainability: Australia Improves Climate Reporting; HSBC Launches $4B Green Credit Line; TNB Expands Grid and Renewables; GenZero Buys Climate Infrastructure Stake; ADB and Singapore Advance Power Grid; Singapore Launches Carbon Coalition; World Bank Expands Carbon Markets Program; Singapore Issues Sustainability Framework; and Stride Raises $15M for Solar Financing

Aviation: Rex Executive Admits Misleading Investors; ASL Airlines Acquires Airwork Freight Business; China Orders 200 Boeing Aircraft in Trade Deal; QNB Funds Asia Digital Engineering Expansion; Smiths Detection Expands Japan Airport Security Contracts; and GE Aerospace Invests INR 100 Crore in Pune Facility

Advanced Air Mobility: TransFuture Aviation Raises 100M Yuan for eVTOL Certification; AutoFlight Demonstrates 2-Ton eVTOL in Kazakhstan; Dassault Systèmes Expands Industrial AI Push in China; and Thailand Expands Drone Economy and Air Mobility Plans

Marine: IMO Approves Global Autonomous Ship Safety Code; India Enables Digital Remote Cargo Clearance; NYK Advances Autonomous Shipping Program; Singapore Launches Marine Digital Transformation Plan; ITOCHU Wins Approval for Ammonia Bunkering Trials; South Korea Engages Iran Over Strait Shipping Risks; and South Korea Tests Northern Sea Route Shipping Trial

Space: Reaction Dynamics and Hanwha Partner on Space Launch; China Launches Shenzhou-23 Mission; India Builds Shared Space Tech Facilities; South Korea to Launch Earth Observation Satellite; Altana Flags Space Supply Chain Exposure; and Amazon Studies Kuiper Expansion in Vietnam

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Financing & Investments

Capital is flowing heavily into Southeast Asia’s AI, robotics, and digital infrastructure sectors, alongside advancing fintech expansion and tighter regulatory frameworks as governments and companies scale up long-term bets on automation, data centers, and advanced manufacturing.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong based August Robotics has raised $30 million in a Series B round led by Big Pi Ventures, with participation from Blackbird, Skip Capital, Tanarra, Future Family Office and GS Futures. The company said the funding will be used to scale production of its autonomous construction robotics systems, expand AI development and support global expansion.

💡August Robotics develops autonomous drilling robots designed for large construction projects, particularly data center builds, and said its systems are already deployed in the United States and Europe. The company plans to expand operations into Europe and Australia while developing additional robotics products aimed at automating construction and industrial workflows.


Indonesia

Pluang has raised $10 million in new funding, with participation from MUFG Innovation Partners alongside existing investors Accel and Square Peg. The company also launched access to Indonesian equities on its app, expanding its product suite which already includes US stocks, ETFs, crypto, derivatives, gold and mutual funds.

💡Pluang said the expansion comes amid strong growth in Indonesia’s retail investing market, with rapid increases in both equity and crypto participation in recent years.


Japan-Malaysia

Japan’s TDK Corporation has agreed to acquire 100 percent of Malaysia-based lithium-ion battery maker Linergy Power Sdn Bhdin a deal valued at $240 million. The acquisition will be carried out through TDK’s Singapore subsidiary, Amperex Technology (Singapore), and Linergy will become a wholly owned subsidiary once the transaction is completed.

💡TDK said the deal supports its long-term strategy to strengthen its energy solutions business and expand its global battery supply capabilities.


Malaysia

GXBank has expanded its MSME-focused banking offering, increasing business financing limits to RM150,000 and easing onboarding requirements for small business customers. The updated process allows applicants, including sole proprietors, to use personal bank statements for account setup and credit evaluation, aiming to improve access to formal financing.

💡The expansion is supported by GXBank’s collaboration with CGC Digital, which provides a digital guarantee structure intended to broaden lending capacity for smaller businesses. GXBank said the changes are designed to address financing gaps in the MSME segment and support the development of verifiable credit histories for entrepreneurs who operate outside traditional business banking channels.


Malaysia

SkyeChip surged on its market debut after raising MYR 352 million ($88.62 million) in an initial public offering. The Penang-based integrated circuit design firm opened at MYR 3.50 per share, about three times its IPO price, reflecting strong investor demand. The company develops silicon intellectual property (IP) and custom application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) used in AI, data centers and automotive systems.

💡The company said IPO proceeds will fund research and development, expansion of facilities and investment in design tools as it scales its semiconductor portfolio.


Malaysia

Securities Commission Malaysia has updated its Guidelines on Recognized Markets to strengthen regulation of digital asset exchanges (DAX) and improve investor protection. The revised framework aims to streamline product approvals, raise operational and governance standards for DAX operators, and enhance safeguards for client assets. It also increases requirements related to financial stability, ownership structure and management competence.

💡The changes also expand regulatory enforcement against unregistered platforms and introduce membership in the Financial Markets Ombudsman Service for DAX operators starting in 2026, giving investors access to formal dispute resolution. The regulator said the updates align with broader capital market development plans and reflect growing digital asset activity in Malaysia, where regulated trading volumes rose to MYR 17.14 billion in 2025.


Singapore

Doozy Robotics, a Singapore-based physical AI and humanoid robotics startup, has announced global expansion plans across the United States, GCC markets and Asia ahead of a planned Series A round. The company is building an integrated automation system combining humanoids, autonomous mobile robots and autonomous forklifts, coordinated by its Eywa-OS software platform.

💡Doozy said the system acts as an autonomous factory management layer that allocates robots in real time and adjusts to operational changes. It is targeting customers through a Robot-as-a-Service model, with its Industrial Super Humanoid scheduled for deployment in 2026. The company reported early traction including a $200 million pipeline, pilot programs and industrial customer engagements.


Vietnam

AVC Technology Vietnam, a subsidiary of Taiwan-based Asia Vital Components, has started construction of a $600 million high-tech electronics components plant in Ninh Binh Province. The project will cover about 46 hectares at Kim Bang 1 Industrial Park and is designed to produce more than 84 million cooling and metal component products annually, including server casings, liquid cooling equipment and water cooling plates.

💡The project is among the latest large-scale industrial investments in Ninh Binh as the province seeks to expand high-tech manufacturing and supporting industries.

USA-Southeast Asia

Amazon said it plans to invest more than $33 billion in cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand by 2039. The company said its investments in the region over the past three years include major cloud infrastructure expansion, with a focus on supporting enterprise adoption of AI and digital services.

💡Amazon estimated the investment could contribute more than $64 billion to the combined GDP of the four countries and support over 56,300 jobs annually in the regional data center supply chain. The company also said it has trained 2.7 million people in Southeast Asia on cloud skills since 2017 and is expanding workforce programs and renewable energy initiatives as part of its long-term regional strategy.

Environmental Sustainability

Asia’s sustainability push is advancing through coordinated policy, financing, and infrastructure efforts, with major momentum in carbon markets, cross-border clean energy integration, and standardized ESG reporting, alongside growing private capital flows into renewables and transition technologies.

Australia

Australian Securities and Investments Commission said early reviews of Australia’s first mandatory sustainability reports show improved consistency and quality in climate-related financial disclosures under the new reporting regime. It noted that companies are producing more structured information, but warned against disclaimers that conflict with statutory reporting requirements and highlighted issues around clarity of assumptions, cross-referencing, and presentation of climate risks and targets.

💡The regulator said disclosures must reflect both current conditions and forward-looking assessments, and that additional information should not obscure key climate-related financial data. The review comes as Australia considers reforms that could raise size thresholds for mandatory reporting, potentially reducing compliance obligations for smaller companies under its sustainability and financial reporting framework.

Hong Kong-Mainland China

HSBC has launched a Sustainability and Transition Credit Facility of up to $4 billion in mainland China to support companies in clean energy and low-carbon sectors expanding internationally, including into ASEAN markets. The facility targets sectors such as clean power, transport electrification, data centers and artificial intelligence, and is intended to accelerate cross-border deployment of low-carbon technologies.

💡HSBC said Singapore is expected to play a key role in channeling the financing into Southeast Asia, given its position as a regional investment hub.


Malaysia

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) said it will continue strengthening grid resilience while expanding renewable energy capacity, regional energy connectivity and support for AI- and digital-driven industries. The company is focusing on grid digitalization, renewable integration and carbon management to support Malaysia’s energy transition under the National Energy Transition Roadmap.

💡TNB highlighted initiatives including utility-scale solar projects, hybrid renewable systems and green hydrogen development, alongside progress on a 785 MW peak corporate renewable energy supply agreement for data center operations. It invested MYR 15.7 billion in capital expenditure in 2025, with most allocated to grid modernization to support rising electricity demand from electrification, digitalization and data infrastructure.

Singapore

GenZero, a Temasek-backed investment platform focused on decarbonization, has acquired a secondary stake in Seraya Partners Fund I from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. The deal provides exposure to a portfolio of Asian energy transition and sustainable infrastructure assets managed by Seraya Partners.

💡Seraya Partners Fund I invests in infrastructure supporting the region’s energy transition, including marine energy services and low-carbon data centers. GenZero said the transaction aligns with its strategy to scale climate-focused infrastructure investment in Asia-Pacific and demonstrates how development finance and private capital can be recycled to support further climate-related projects.

Singapore

Asian Development Bank and Energy Market Authority of Singapore have renewed their memorandum of understanding for another three years to support cross-border energy projects in ASEAN, including electricity exports to Singapore. The agreement focuses on reducing barriers to renewable energy generation and grid interconnection projects, with emphasis on project financing, risk allocation, technical challenges in subsea cables, and overall project bankability.

💡The partnership supports the ASEAN Power Grid initiative, which aims to connect national electricity networks across Southeast Asia. The Asian Development Bank has committed up to $10 billion over the next decade toward the initiative, while also expanding broader regional infrastructure support.


Singapore

Enterprise Singapore has launched the Action for a Resilient Climate (ARC) Coalition, an industry-led initiative to aggregate corporate demand for high-integrity carbon credits and channel financing toward carbon reduction projects. The coalition is supported by companies and organizations including Bain & Company, Tencent, Mitsubishi Corporation, GenZero, Climate Impact X, WWF Singapore and others. It aims to improve market confidence, increase access to carbon credits and support broader corporate participation in voluntary carbon markets.

💡The initiative will pool demand from corporate buyers, target procurement of at least 10 million tons of carbon credits by 2030, and help finance early-stage climate projects. It will also develop standards for credit quality, improve due diligence and streamline procurement processes for companies.


Singapore

World Bank Group and the Singapore government have launched the Singapore Carbon Markets Program to support the growth of high-integrity carbon markets. Announced at the Innovate4Climate conference in Singapore, the initiative aims to help countries strengthen technical capabilities, institutions and digital infrastructure needed to participate in carbon markets. The program will focus on carbon market infrastructure, carbon credit monetization and market readiness support for host countries.

💡The initiative will develop tools for interoperable carbon registries and digital monitoring systems for carbon projects, including regenerative agriculture. It will also explore ways to aggregate carbon credit demand and supply to lower transaction costs and support projects in underserved markets.

Singapore

Enterprise Singapore, through the Singapore Standards Council, has launched Technical Reference 149:2026, a sustainability framework developed with A*STAR Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology and Singapore Manufacturing Federation. The framework helps companies assess environmental sustainability maturity across four levels, from Essential to Gold, covering areas including workforce readiness, operations, supply chains and product life cycles. It also includes metrics on emissions, energy, water and material use.

The framework is aimed particularly at small and medium-sized enterprises facing rising sustainability requirements from customers, investors and supply chains. Built on A*STAR SIMTech’s Green Compass framework, TR 149 provides businesses with a structured way to identify gaps and track progress.

💡It will also support the Green 100 movement, an industry initiative led by the Council for a Competitive Climate Transition, through a digital platform to help companies adopt and improve sustainability practices.

Vietnam

Vietnam-based solar energy startup Stride has raised $15 million in a Series B round co-led by Lightrock and TRIREC via the Accelerate7 platform, with participation from Clime Capital and UOB Venture Management. Early investor Touchstone Partners announced a partial exit following the close of the round.

💡Stride provides financing solutions for rooftop solar and battery systems for households and MSMEs, including payment plans and insurance products. The company plans to use the funds to expand in Vietnam and other markets, improve its digital and quality assurance systems, and scale access to clean energy, targeting 200,000 additional users by 2030.

Aviation

Aviation activity is being shaped by a mix of regulatory scrutiny, strategic fleet and M&A expansion, and renewed large-scale aircraft demand driven by geopolitics, while airlines and suppliers continue to scale maintenance, manufacturing, and airport infrastructure capacity across Asia and beyond.

Australia

Australian Securities and Investments Commission said former Regional Express Holdings executive chair Lim Kim Hai has admitted in court to misleading investors over a February 2023 market update on the airline’s financial outlook. The regulator said Lim agreed to accept penalties, including potential fines and disqualification orders, subject to court approval.

💡The case relates to statements that suggested optimism about profitability despite the airline’s operating losses and lack of a formal forecast at the time.

Australia

ASL Airlines Australia has signed a sale and purchase agreement to acquire the New Zealand and Australia freight business of troubled aviation group Airwork. The deal remains subject to final due diligence and customary conditions, with terms not disclosed.

💡The Airwork business entered receivership after financial pressures linked to the loss of aircraft tied to Russia following sanctions, alongside debt and challenging trading conditions. Airwork has since been restructuring assets and addressing insurance claims related to aircraft that remain under Russian control. ASL Airlines Australia, formerly Pionair Australia, has been expanding its freighter operations and fleet through acquisitions and aircraft conversions.

China-USA

China has confirmed plans to purchase 200 aircraft from Boeing following recent high-level trade discussions between US and Chinese leadership. The agreement also includes US commitments to maintain supply access for aircraft engine parts and related components to support ongoing aircraft deliveries.

💡The deal is part of broader trade negotiations that include efforts to extend a tariff truce and consider reciprocal tariff reductions on significant volumes of goods. The announcement follows renewed engagement between the two countries on aviation, agriculture and industrial supply chains, with Boeing describing the agreement as an initial step toward further aircraft commitments.

Malaysia

Asia Digital Engineering, the maintenance, repair and overhaul subsidiary of Capital A, has secured a $100 million financing facility from QNB Group to support its expansion. The company said the funding reflects confidence in its growth strategy and will be used to increase capacity and scale its aircraft maintenance operations across the region.

💡ADE said the capital will help expand services for airline customers, including AirAsia, as demand for maintenance services rises. The company currently operates a line maintenance network across multiple ASEAN airports and provides base maintenance and specialized engineering services. It also highlighted its digital platforms for parts procurement and aircraft health management as part of its broader expansion strategy.

UK-Japan

Smiths Detection has secured multiple contracts in Japan to expand its airport security footprint, including deployments and upgrades at Hiroshima International Airport and Miyazaki International Airport, alongside partnerships with Japan Airlines covering Haneda, Ishigaki, and Okadama airports. The installations include HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S scanners and iLane A20 automated tray return systems, aimed at modernizing passenger screening across several domestic hubs.

💡The systems use high-resolution 3D imaging and automated tray handling to streamline checkpoint processes, including allowing passengers to keep electronics and liquids in carry-on bags. Deployment timelines vary by airport, with some systems already operational and others scheduled through 2027.

USA-India

GE Aerospace will invest INR 100 crore in its Pune manufacturing facility in India to expand production capacity and upgrade advanced manufacturing capabilities. The investment will fund welding technologies, inspection systems, precision tools, and infrastructure improvements aimed at improving output quality and process precision for commercial aircraft engine components.

💡The latest funding brings GE Aerospace’s total investment in the Pune site to more than INR 510 crore over three years. The facility supports production for several engine programs, including GE90, GEnx, GE9X, and CFM International’s LEAP engines, and is part of the company’s wider global supply chain.

Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility is shifting from experimentation to early commercialization, with China leading eVTOL certification and deployment, while Thailand and regional players build regulatory and industrial ecosystems to support drones and low-altitude transport at scale.

China

TransFuture Aviation has raised more than 100 million yuan in a Pre-A+ funding round led by Ant Group, with participation from Bi’an Times and Fosun Chuangfu. The funding will primarily support airworthiness certification work for its Honghu series fully tilting electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, as well as further development of cargo and passenger applications.

💡The company’s Honghu program has already moved into certification and early commercialization stages, including CAAC acceptance of its airworthiness application and completion of prototype testing. TransFuture Aviation is pursuing a cargo-first rollout strategy while scaling passenger development.


China-Kazakhstan

AutoFlight completed a demonstration flight of its 2-tonne-class eVTOL aircraft in Almaty, Kazakhstan, marking one of the first deployments of large eVTOL technology in Central Asia. The flight was conducted in partnership with Alatau Advance Air Group (AAAG) and highlighted early-stage testing and integration of advanced air mobility systems in the region’s low-altitude transport sector.

💡Alongside the demonstration, AutoFlight and AAAG signed an agreement for AAAG to purchase up to 50 additional V2000 and V5000 series eVTOL aircraft. The aircraft are intended for future low-altitude transport networks across Kazakhstan and other parts of Central Asia, with AutoFlight also responsible for delivery support, pilot and operational training, maintenance, and after-sales services.

France-China

Dassault Systèmes said it is expanding its industrial artificial intelligence strategy in China, positioning the country as both a major market and a key source of manufacturing-driven innovation. CEO Pascal Daloz said China’s manufacturing ecosystem is increasingly central to global industrial transformation, particularly as AI moves from experimentation into large-scale industrial use cases.

💡The company is developing “industrial AI” systems designed for engineering and production environments, combining simulation, physics-based modeling and AI through partnerships such as its collaboration with Nvidia. Dassault Systèmes has also launched a China-focused digital industrial investment fund and is engaging with local AI developers, including those working on robotics, humanoids and eVTOL systems, as part of its broader effort to support industrial upgrading and global expansion.

Thailand

Thailand is positioning drone technology as a core pillar of its digital economy strategy, smart agriculture development, and national security applications, according to remarks made at the DronTech Asia 2026 press conference in Bangkok. Government agencies, academic institutions, and industry groups highlighted plans to expand regulatory frameworks, increase drone operator training, and integrate unmanned systems into sectors such as farming, logistics, infrastructure monitoring, and emergency response.

💡Officials said Thailand is advancing its national drone roadmap, including updated rules for heavier commercial drones and a broader airspace management plan to support future urban air mobility. The country has more than 60,000 registered drone operators, with further expansion expected as AI-enabled platforms and agricultural drone programs scale.

Marine

Maritime transport is rapidly digitalizing and decarbonizing, with global standards for autonomous shipping emerging alongside strong pushes in AI-enabled operations, alternative fuels, and port efficiency, while geopolitical risks continue to influence routing and trade security decisions.

Global

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted a new International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code), creating global rules for autonomous and remotely operated cargo vessels. Agreed at the Maritime Safety Committee meeting in London, the framework sets safety, cybersecurity, and operational standards while keeping ships compliant with existing conventions like SOLAS. The code will apply from July 2026 on a voluntary basis before becoming mandatory later.

💡The MASS Code covers areas such as navigation systems, remote control centres, emergency response, and system security, while still assigning overall responsibility to a designated master even if not onboard. IMO officials said the rules are designed to safely integrate AI-driven shipping technologies. The committee also approved related updates on alternative fuel training and improved ship tracking systems for coastal states.


India

India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has introduced remote cargo clearance, removing the need for customs officers to physically board vessels. The system shifts port operations to a fully digital, faceless model where key cargo and vessel declarations are submitted online, allowing clearances to be processed remotely.

💡The reform uses risk-based screening to determine when physical inspections are necessary, while routine checks are handled digitally. The change is intended to speed up vessel turnaround times, reduce delays and costs, and improve the efficiency and global competitiveness of India’s port and trade logistics system.


Japan

NYK Group, working with the Nippon Foundation’s MEGURI2040 program, is advancing Japan’s push toward partially autonomous coastal shipping. Now in its second phase, the initiative brings together more than 100 organizations to develop Level 4–equivalent autonomous navigation systems, remote Fleet Operation Centers, and digital ship-to-shore communications.

Trials include multiple vessel types such as ferries, cargo ships, and containerships, with automated navigation, collision avoidance, and remote support functions being tested in real operating conditions. The program is also contributing to international rulemaking discussions at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as autonomous shipping standards evolve.

💡The project has already reached early commercialization milestones, including Japan’s first certified autonomous passenger ferry operating on a scheduled coastal route. NYK is now extending the technology into commercial fleets, including a new car carrier set for delivery in 2026 that will test AI-assisted navigation, motion optimization, and full-vessel digital connectivity during live voyages.

Japan-Singapore

ITOCHU Corporation’s subsidiary ZETA Bunkering Pte. Ltd. has received approval from Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority to conduct ammonia bunkering trials in the Port of Singapore. The authorization follows safety and risk assessments and will allow ship-to-ship ammonia fuel transfer tests over a two-year period starting May 2026. The trials will evaluate operational procedures, infrastructure readiness, and safety standards for ammonia as a marine fuel.

💡The project is part of ITOCHU’s wider effort to develop an ammonia shipping fuel supply chain, including a dedicated bunker vessel due in 2027. Further demonstrations with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines are planned to support ammonia-fuelled shipping operations in Singapore. The aim is to establish commercial-scale ammonia bunkering and advance decarbonization in global maritime transport.


Singapore

Enterprise Singapore and Infocomm Media Development Authority have launched a refreshed Marine & Offshore Energy Industry Digital Plan to support more than 1,000 companies in the sector with digital transformation and AI adoption. The plan builds on an earlier 2021 version and is intended to help firms address challenges such as labor constraints, cost pressures and global competition through sector-specific digital tools.

💡The updated framework organizes solutions across customer service, design and engineering, procurement, production and manufacturing, and corporate functions. It includes AI-enabled tools such as chatbots, predictive maintenance, additive manufacturing, robotics, video analytics for workplace safety and business analytics systems. It also introduces a cybersecurity and data protection roadmap to help companies improve cyber hygiene, manage risks and comply with data protection requirements as they digitalize operations.

South Korea

South Korea has begun diplomatic engagement with Iran over vessels linked to the country that are currently unable to move through the Strait of Hormuz, according to diplomatic sources. A special envoy is visiting Tehran to discuss maritime safety and broader regional stability, as Seoul seeks to reduce risks to ships and crew amid ongoing tensions affecting one of the world’s key energy shipping routes.

💡Officials said about 26 South Korea-related vessels carrying more than 170 crew members are currently near the strait. Seoul is also reviewing possible humanitarian assistance for the wider Middle East, while stressing that its discussions with Iran are focused on ensuring safe navigation rather than securing special treatment for specific ships.

South Korea

South Korea’s government is standing by its plan to test a container shipping route along Russia’s Northern Sea Route, arguing it offers an alternative corridor amid global shipping disruptions and geopolitical instability. Officials say the trial, planned for later this year, is aimed at evaluating commercial viability as Arctic passages become more navigable in summer months.

However, industry response appears limited, with reports indicating only one small regional operator, PanStar Line, submitted a bid after a recent tender, while major carriers stayed out. The proposed operation would involve a relatively small ice-capable vessel, but concerns remain over crew expertise, as South Korea has only a limited number of certified polar navigators.

💡Environmental criticism has also emerged, with opponents warning that expanded Arctic shipping could raise ecological risks in the region.

Space

The space sector is entering a phase of commercialization and strategic competition, marked by expanding national space programs, growing private-public partnerships, and rising concerns over supply chain dependencies as countries race to build resilient launch, satellite, and communications infrastructure.

Canada-South Korea

At the Space Canada Horizons 2026 conference, Canadian launch firm Reaction Dynamics and South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean signed a memorandum of understanding at the company’s new Longueuil facility. The agreement opens discussions on potential investment and collaboration to support Canada’s developing commercial space launch sector, particularly in light and medium-lift capabilities, as Hanwha Ocean also competes for Canada’s submarine procurement program.

💡Reaction Dynamics said the partnership could help advance its containerized, rapidly deployable launch system that can operate from flexible sites such as airports and remote locations. The company also outlined plans for a suborbital test flight in Australia in the coming months and an orbital launch attempt in Nova Scotia later this decade, alongside continued expansion at its Montréal-area facility.


China

China has launched its Shenzhou-23 mission, sending three astronauts to the Tiangong space station for a mission that includes preparations for extended-duration human spaceflight. The crew will conduct scientific experiments in areas such as life sciences, materials research, fluid physics and medicine, with one astronaut expected to remain in orbit for up to a year to study the physiological effects of long-term exposure to microgravity.

💡The mission is part of China’s broader space program led by the China Manned Space Agency, which is advancing toward future lunar exploration goals, including a planned crewed Moon landing before 2030. It follows a series of six-month rotational missions to the Tiangong station and supports development of next-generation spacecraft, as well as preparations for longer-term deep-space exploration.


India

India has greenlit the development of Common Technical Facilities in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu to support space technology testing and development. The facilities, overseen by the Department of Space and implemented by IN-SPACe, will provide shared infrastructure for testing, validation, and integration, reducing costs for startups, MSMEs, and larger space companies. Both states have also identified land for dedicated space manufacturing clusters where the facilities will be located.

💡IN-SPACe will procure and initially operate the facilities before transferring them to state governments. The model is expected to accelerate innovation, attract private investment, and strengthen India’s space industry across commercial and strategic applications.


South Korea-USA

South Korea plans to launch a new Earth observation satellite in July from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The satellite, known as Medium Satellite No. 4, will be carried aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and is scheduled to be transported to the launch site next month.

💡The 500-kilogram satellite is designed for agricultural monitoring and forest resource observation and is the fourth in a standardized Earth-imaging platform developed under a South Korea-led program. The mission highlights Seoul’s continued expansion of its space capabilities, particularly in Earth observation and environmental monitoring applications.


USA-China

A new analysis from Altana highlights significant hidden exposure to Chinese and Russian suppliers within the U.S. commercial space industrial base, particularly in lower-tier supply chain layers that are difficult to trace and mitigate. The report found hundreds of thousands of imports since 2022 involving components linked to Chinese manufacturing, along with thousands more connected to Russian-origin inputs, concentrated in critical space technologies.

💡The study points to radiation-hardened electronics, structural materials, and specialized semiconductors as the most vulnerable categories, noting additional dependence on Taiwanese chip manufacturing for advanced space systems. It warns that such multi-layered dependencies could create both compliance risks and systemic fragility for satellite, launch, and defense programs, especially under potential geopolitical disruptions affecting key semiconductor supply hubs.


USA-Vietnam

Amazon is studying plans to deploy low-earth orbit satellite internet services in Vietnam through its Project Kuiper initiative, according to David Zapolsky, the company’s chief global affairs and legal officer. Speaking during a meeting with Vietnam’s Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan, Zapolsky also said Amazon is considering expanding operations in Vietnam and developing the country into a manufacturing hub for export products.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology said it supports Amazon’s research, investment and testing activities in the country. The ministry also encouraged Amazon to expand investment in digital infrastructure, data and high technology, while strengthening cooperation with local technology firms and workforce development.

💡Amazon first announced plans to explore Project Kuiper deployment in Vietnam in 2025 and later submitted related documents to the ministry.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: NEXTDC Launches $720M Malaysia AI Data Center; Stellantis Signs $1.2B China JV With Dongfeng; ENEOS Acquires Chevron $2.17B APAC Downstream Assets; Foxconn Injects $407M Into Singapore Holding Unit; and Fasset Raises $51M for Stablecoin Banking Expansion

Environmental Sustainability: Australia Cuts Biosecurity Funding; Australia–Hong Kong Solar Glass Joint Venture; China Launches EV Battery Recycling Crackdown; Japan–Oman Carbon Credit Mechanism Launched; Malaysia Expands E-Waste Enforcement Powers; New Zealand Blocks Climate Liability Lawsuits; and Vietnam Launches Island Environmental Protection Plan

Aviation: Australia Expands Brisbane Airport Industrial Park; Hong Kong Tests New Terminal 2 Operations; India Conducts First Seaplane Trial to Lakshadweep; Singapore Airlines Reaffirms Long-Term Air India Stake; Jeju Second Airport Debate Intensifies; and Thailand Unveils $365B Airport Expansion Plan

Advanced Air Mobility: China Establishes Low-Altitude Safety Department; India Tests Electric Air Taxi Prototype; India Develops Hydrogen eVTOL Infrastructure Network; and Japan Signs eVTOL Aircraft Purchase Agreement

Marine: China Fines Global Shipping Lines for Rate Violations; India Launches $1.5B Maritime Insurance Pool; Japan Signs Renewable Power Deal for Yokohama Port; Japan–Singapore Test Autonomous Cargo Ship Operations; and Thailand Investigates Major Oil Tanker Fuel Discrepancy Case

Space: China Launches Tianzhou-10 Cargo Mission; China MinoSpace Seeks $736M STAR Market IPO; India–Italy Expand Space Industry Cooperation; Singapore Launches Space Innovation Lab; and Axiom Space Plans Japanese Subsidiary for Future Space Station

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Financing & Investments

Global capital is increasingly converging on AI infrastructure, regional manufacturing localization, energy downstream consolidation, and regulated digital finance networks across Asia-Pacific and emerging markets, signaling a coordinated shift in how physical and financial infrastructure is being scaled worldwide.

Australia-Malaysia

Australia’s NEXTDC Limited has launched KL1 Kuala Lumpur, its first international data center project, with an investment of about $720 million. Located in Malaysia’s Klang Valley, the facility is designed to support artificial intelligence, cloud computing and high-performance computing workloads across Southeast Asia. The company said KL1 will provide 65MW of IT capacity and is expected to become the first Uptime Institute Tier IV-certified data center in Peninsular Malaysia.

💡NEXTDC said the facility is intended to serve organizations requiring secure, high-density infrastructure for AI and digital operations while meeting regional data governance requirements. Malaysian officials said the project supports the country’s plans to expand its digital economy and attract AI-related investment. The company added that the project will strengthen regional connectivity and support broader digital infrastructure links between Australia and Southeast Asia.


EU-China

Stellantis and Dongfeng Motor Corporation have signed a $1.2 billion agreement to produce Peugeot and Jeep vehicles in China. The deal, worth over 8 billion yuan, will support both domestic sales and exports, with Stellantis contributing about 130 million euros.

💡The agreement is part of Stellantis’ upcoming long-term strategy, set to be presented by CEO Antonio Filosa on May 21.

Japan

ENEOS Holdings has agreed to acquire Chevron Corporation’s downstream fuels and lubricants businesses across several Asia-Pacific markets in a deal valued at $2.17 billion. The transaction covers operations in Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Australia, Vietnam and Indonesia, including Chevron Singapore’s 50 percent stake in the Singapore Refining Company. ENEOS said the acquisition will be completed through a Singapore-based special purpose vehicle and is expected to close in 2027, subject to regulatory approvals.

The acquisition is aimed at expanding its fuels, lubricants and trading operations across Southeast Asia and Oceania as fuel demand in Japan declines and regional demand growth continues. The company plans to retain and develop the Caltex brand across Asia-Pacific markets and said integrating the assets with its existing operations is expected to strengthen regional supply chains and trading opportunities.

💡Chevron said the sale forms part of its international portfolio management strategy and that it will support the transition process during the ownership transfer.


Taiwan-Singapore

Hon Hai Precision Industry, also known as Foxconn, plans to inject about $407.2 million into its wholly owned subsidiary Foxconn Singapore Pte. Ltd. through the purchase of roughly 524.4 million common shares priced at SGD1 each, according to a filing with the Taiwan Stock Exchange. Foxconn said the transaction is intended for long-term investment and will be funded through private capital.

💡After the transaction, Foxconn will hold more than 8.63 billion shares in Foxconn Singapore, with a cumulative value of about $6.54 billion, maintaining full ownership of the unit. Foxconn Singapore operates as an investment holding company and serves as a key intermediary for the group’s regional investments, including projects in Vietnam such as manufacturing investments in Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh provinces approved in 2024.

USA-Global

Fasset has raised $51 million in a Series B funding round to expand its stablecoin-powered banking and financial infrastructure services across Asia, Africa and the Americas. The US-based company said investors in the round included SBI Group, Arz Portföy, Investcorp and several family offices.

Fasset plans to build on its existing operations in markets including the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan and Türkiye while expanding regulated financial infrastructure across more than 50 banking corridors. The company currently holds regulatory approvals in several jurisdictions, including the UAE, Indonesia, the European Union, Pakistan and Malaysia.

💡 The funding will support additional banking licenses, compliance systems and the development of its Own Network platform for stablecoin payments and custody. The firm also plans to expand lending, SME banking and trade finance services using stablecoin settlement systems to improve cross-border payments and liquidity access.

Environmental Sustainability

Environmental policy is simultaneously tightening enforcement and scaling green investment across Asia-Pacific, while political tensions emerge in Australia and New Zealand over how climate responsibility should be balanced with economic and legal constraints.

Australia

Australia’s federal budget has been criticized for cutting about $200 million over five years from agriculture, fisheries and forestry programs, including major reductions to pest and disease preparedness funding. Around $104 million in grants will be removed or reduced, with some savings redirected toward trade and export priorities within the portfolio.

💡Farm groups and conservation organizations warned the cuts weaken long-term biosecurity efforts despite pests and weeds costing Australian agriculture an estimated $5.3 billion annually. While the budget includes some funding for border monitoring, disease preparedness, and CSIRO support, critics argue the measures are short-term and insufficient, with concern over stalled work on invasive species control such as fire ants and rabbits.


Australia-Hong Kong

Australia’s ClearVue Technologies has formed a joint venture in Hong Kong with Chinese vacuum-glass manufacturer LandVac to produce power-generating glass for building facades. The venture, supported by InvestHK, is intended to scale manufacturing of solar-integrated glass for commercial buildings by leveraging production capacity in mainland China.

💡The companies said the technology embeds solar generation into building glass and has been tested to reduce building energy consumption by up to about 70%.

China

China has launched a coordinated enforcement campaign targeting illegal recycling and disposal of electric vehicle and e-moped power batteries. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, will run through the end of June and follows new April regulations requiring full lifecycle traceability of batteries. Authorities aim to dismantle long-standing black-market recycling channels that have operated alongside compliant “whitelist” firms.

The crackdown comes as China faces its first large-scale wave of EV battery retirements, driven by rapid vehicle adoption beginning in the mid-2010s and typical battery lifespans of five to eight years. Officials say weak enforcement in past systems allowed a significant share of batteries to flow into unregulated workshops, raising environmental and safety risks.

💡A national traceability platform now assigns unique identifiers to batteries across production, use, and recycling, with penalties for improper disposal intended to tighten control over rare metal recovery and supply chains.

Japan-Oman

Japan and Oman have launched a Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) designed to support decarbonization projects while generating tradable carbon credits under the Paris Agreement framework. The agreement allows emissions reductions achieved in Oman to be partially counted toward Japan’s climate targets, while also supporting Oman’s own net-zero goals through joint government oversight and project approval.

💡The mechanism is expected to attract Japanese investment and technology across sectors including green hydrogen, renewable energy, transport, waste management and agriculture. Projects will be jointly developed by Omani and Japanese partners, with carbon credits verified by independent third parties and overseen by a bilateral committee

Malaysia

Malaysia’s federal government has granted state authorities expanded powers to crack down on illegal electronic waste processing, including the ability to carry out raids and seize land. The directive follows a national survey that identified 83 unlicensed plants handling hazardous e-waste across the country.

💡The measures are designed to strengthen enforcement against syndicates that import discarded electronics under false declarations, often leaving toxic residues that contaminate soil and waterways. Authorities said the new coordination framework will enable faster, joint operations and signal that Malaysia will not tolerate illegal waste operations.


New Zealand

New Zealand’s government is moving to amend the Climate Change Response Act 2002 to block courts from assigning tort liability for greenhouse gas emissions, directly overriding a Supreme Court ruling that allowed a landmark climate case to proceed. The decision is aimed at preventing lawsuits that could establish corporate liability for climate-related harm, with officials arguing that climate policy should be set by Parliament rather than through litigation.

The move affects the case Smith v Fonterra and others, brought by Māori elder Michael Smith against major emitters including Fonterra, Genesis Energy, New Zealand Steel, Z Energy, Channel Infrastructure, and BT Mining.

💡The government says the change will provide legal certainty for businesses, while critics argue it removes a key avenue for holding major emitters accountable through the courts.

Vietnam

The Van Don Special Zone in Vietnam has launched a 2026–2030 environmental protection project aimed at improving marine and island ecosystems. The initiative focuses on public awareness and mobilization efforts to reduce pollution and strengthen environmental management across the zone’s more than 600 islands, according to local authorities.

💡The plan sets targets for all island areas to meet “Green Island – Clean Island” standards by 2030, eliminate persistent waste sites, achieve at least 95% waste collection and treatment, and cut single-use plastic waste by over 80%. It also requires full household participation in environmental protection activities and promotes the development of green tourism, sustainable livelihoods, and green economic models across islands such as Ngoc Vung, Ban Sen, Minh Chau, and Quan Lan.

Aviation

Asia-Pacific aviation is in a broad expansion phase driven by infrastructure investment and new regional connectivity models, while environmental and political pressures increasingly influence long-term airport planning decisions.

Australia

Brisbane Airport has fast-tracked a 25-hectare expansion of its Airport Industrial Park in response to demand for logistics, supply chain, and manufacturing space in South East Queensland. The second stage follows full take-up of stage 1, which includes tenants such as Australia Post, Martin Brower, Sadleirs, Tile One, and 4WD Supacentre.

💡The new stage will deliver up to 27,000 square metres of lettable warehouse space across initial lots ranging from about 1,400 to 5,500 square metres, with provision for up to 10 tenants. The project is part of a broader $5 billion airport investment program over five years, with further industrial land releases planned and sustainability targets including 5 Star Green Star design standards.


Hong Kong

Hong Kong International Airport has completed a full-scale operational trial at its new Terminal 2 departure facilities ahead of the planned opening on May 27. The exercise involved over 1,100 participants from around 30 organizations, including Airport Authority Hong Kong, airlines, ground handlers, and government agencies.

💡The trial tested end-to-end passenger departure flows, including transport access, airline check-in, self-service bag drop, security screening, immigration, and boarding via the Automated People Mover. About 15 airlines, including HK Express Airways, Hong Kong Airlines, and Greater Bay Airlines, are expected to gradually shift departure operations to Terminal 2 starting 27 May.


India

A seaplane trial flight was completed between Kochi and Lakshadweep using a DHC6-400 Twin Otter operated by Skyhop. The aircraft landed at Agatti Island and later at Kavaratti Island, marking the first seaplane landings in the Lakshadweep lagoons.

💡The trial was coordinated with the Lakshadweep administration, Airports Authority of India, and Cochin International Airport Limited as part of efforts to evaluate seaplane connectivity for the region.


Singapore-India

Singapore Airlines Group has reaffirmed its commitment to its 25.1% stake in Air India, saying the carrier is showing “tangible progress” despite ongoing losses and operational challenges. Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong said the investment, made alongside the Tata Group, is a long-term play tied to India’s aviation growth potential.

💡Air India reported about S$3.56 billion in losses for the year ended March 2026, weighing on Singapore Airlines Group’s profit. Goh pointed to service upgrades and internal restructuring efforts while noting that the turnaround will take time, with improvements expected over a multi-year horizon.

South Korea

Public debate over Jeju Island’s proposed second airport is intensifying, with civic groups split over its environmental impact and need for additional air capacity. Opponents raised concerns about bird strike risks, habitat disruption, and gaps in environmental assessments, while supporters argue the project is necessary to address chronic congestion at the existing airport and support future demand.

💡The issue has remained unresolved since the plan was first proposed in 2015 and later advanced through environmental review and a basic development plan in 2024, but has since stalled amid political change and local opposition. With Jeju Airport operating near capacity and handling over 30 million passengers annually, the project remains politically sensitive, and leading gubernatorial candidates have so far avoided firm positions, instead calling for further review or public consultation.

Thailand

Airports of Thailand (AOT) is revising its airport development plan with total investment of about 365 billion baht to increase combined capacity across six airports to 180 million passengers per year by 2034. The plan focuses on major upgrades at Suvarnabhumi Airport, including an East Expansion project and a South Terminal development, along with supporting infrastructure such as a fourth runway, cargo facilities, and aviation service zones.

💡Don Mueang Airport is also set for a major expansion with a new international terminal and related upgrades, while regional airports in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai will be expanded in phases. Feasibility studies are also underway for two potential new airports in Phang Nga and Lanna as part of the broader network plan.

Advanced Air Mobility

Urban air mobility is shifting from experimentation to structured development as regulators, startups, and infrastructure providers begin aligning on certification pathways and operational ecosystems across Asia.

China

Civil Aviation Administration of China has established a new low-altitude safety department as part of efforts to develop the country’s low-altitude economy. The department will be responsible for planning low-altitude civil aviation development, coordinating safety and growth, and building flight service dispatch platforms and supporting service station systems, according to the regulator.

💡The development follows earlier steps by the National Development and Reform Commission to establish a dedicated unit for low-altitude economic planning and policy coordination.

India

Magnum Wings, an Andhra Pradesh-based startup, has completed an unmanned flight trial of its V2 2.0 electric air taxi prototype. The company said the test marks a step toward developing its urban air mobility platform and places it among early-stage Indian firms working on electric air taxi systems.

💡The V2 2.0 is designed for short-distance travel with an estimated 45-minute endurance and a range of about 30 kilometres. The company plans to move toward certification, followed by manned testing and potential commercial operations, subject to regulatory approvals.

India

Jio-bp and VJaitra Air Mobility have signed an MoU to develop charging and green hydrogen infrastructure for electric and hydrogen-powered eVTOL aircraft. The plan includes EV charging stations, hydrogen refuelling hubs, and vertiports integrated with existing fuel and transport networks to support future air taxi operations.

💡The partnership targets both short-range electric flights and longer-range hydrogen aircraft, aligning with India’s clean energy and transport goals. VJaitra is developing eVTOL aircraft for passenger, medical, and logistics use, while Jio-bp will support infrastructure rollout across selected urban and intercity routes.

Japan

SkyDrive Inc. has signed a letter of intent with Tohoku Air Service for the planned purchase of one SkyDrive Model SD-05 eVTOL aircraft, with delivery targeted for 2028. The agreement marks the first time a Japan-based helicopter operator has agreed in principle to acquire an eVTOL from SkyDrive.

💡Tohoku Air Service plans to assess the aircraft’s operational requirements, safety, and infrastructure needs before potential deployment in services such as regional transport, tourism, medical response, and disaster relief. The company said it will use its helicopter operations experience to evaluate how eVTOLs could be integrated into future regional mobility services in Japan.

Marine

The maritime sector is tightening regulatory compliance while accelerating decarbonization and digital transformation, alongside heightened scrutiny of operational transparency and energy logistics integrity.

China

China’s Ministry of Transport has fined nine international container shipping lines and seven domestic non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCCs) for freight rate filing violations. The companies were found to have failed to properly complete rate filings or reported discrepancies between filed and actual prices following inspections at ports including Guangzhou, Qingdao, and Ningbo in 2025.

💡Major carriers affected include MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, CMA CGM Group, Hapag-Lloyd, Ocean Network Express, and Evergreen Marine Corporation, along with other smaller operators. The ministry said the penalties serve as a warning and it will increase enforcement to ensure compliance with freight rate filing rules.

India

India has launched the $1.5 billion Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool with a $1.4 billion sovereign guarantee to provide domestic insurance coverage for shipping operations amid geopolitical risks. The mechanism covers hull, cargo, liability, and war risks for India-linked vessels and reduces dependence on foreign reinsurers.

💡State-owned General Insurance Corporation of India will administer the pool. Claims up to $100 million will be covered within the pool, with higher losses backed by the sovereign guarantee after reserves and reinsurance are used.


Japan

APM Terminals Japan has signed a 20-year offsite corporate power purchase agreement (PPA) with FPS Inc. to supply renewable electricity to its Yokohama terminal. The deal will provide solar-generated power from facilities with about 5.5 MW of installed capacity in the Tokyo region, starting April 1, 2026, and is expected to reduce Scope 2 emissions by roughly 2.6 ktCO₂e annually.

💡The agreement supports the wider decarbonization goals of A.P. Moller – Maersk, which targets 100% renewable electricity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040. By replacing grid electricity with renewable supply, the PPA also aims to stabilize long-term energy costs while contributing to Japan’s energy transition through the addition of new solar capacity to the national grid.

Japan-Singapore

A NYK Line-operated car carrier, Elder Leader, completed its first call at the Port of Singapore on April 29, 2026, in a joint demonstration with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. The vessel is fitted with autonomous navigation systems, LNG propulsion, and other digital shipping technologies aimed at improving efficiency and reducing emissions.

💡The trial tested data exchange between the ship’s autonomous systems and Singapore’s port traffic management platforms, including voyage planning, pilotage coordination, and real-time operational updates. Conducted with a pilot onboard under safety controls, the exercise is intended to support future integration of autonomous vessels into international shipping routes.

Thailand

Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has opened a probe into nine companies linked to oil tanker operations after an estimated 57–60 million liters of fuel reportedly went missing during transport in the Gulf of Thailand. The case covers 20 shipping trips involving 12 vessels moving oil from refineries in Thailand’s eastern region, with irregularities reported near Surat Thani.

💡Investigators are examining possible violations under the Price of Goods and Services Act, including alleged transport delays, stockpiling, and distribution issues. The DSI has questioned all nine firms and is reviewing navigation data from the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center to verify voyage timelines and reported disruptions such as weather, mechanical issues, and port congestion.

Space

Space activity is rapidly globalizing and commercializing, with stronger cross-border partnerships, growing private-sector participation, and accelerating infrastructure development for orbital and satellite-based economies.

China

China launched the cargo spacecraft Tianzhou-10 aboard a Long March 7 from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site on May 11, successfully delivering supplies to the Tiangong space station. The craft separated from the rocket after about 10 minutes and later docked with the station’s Tianhe core module, carrying over 6.2 tonnes of cargo including consumables, propellant, and scientific payloads.

The mission also delivered experimental materials for space research, including zebrafish embryos, mouse embryos, and artificial human embryo models for studying early developmental biology in microgravity. Additional payloads include ultra-thin flexible solar cells, a greenhouse gas monitoring instrument developed with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and upgraded extravehicular spacesuits and station supplies.

💡Tianzhou-10 is expected to remain docked for about one year, supporting ongoing operations and crew activities aboard Tiangong.

China

Satellite manufacturer MinoSpace has had its IPO application accepted on Shanghai’s STAR Market, seeking about $736 million to fund satellite constellation and product expansion plans. Plans call for developing the first phase of its 112-satellite Taijing constellation, which includes optical, multispectral, and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites.

The company said it has already launched 32 satellites and operates a production capacity of up to 150 satellites per year in Wuxi. IPO proceeds would support construction of R&D facilities, new satellite platforms, communications satellite development, and SAR payload manufacturing.

💡The prospectus reports 2025 revenue of about $57 million, a net loss of $26.6 million, and an order backlog exceeding $147 million, including a major remote sensing constellation contract for Sichuan province.


India-Italy

India’s space regulator IN-SPACe led a delegation of nine Indian space-tech companies to Space Meetings Veneto 2026 in Venice, Italy, where firms announced multiple commercial partnerships with European counterparts. The event brought together global space industry players and focused on cooperation in launch services, satellite infrastructure, navigation systems, and mission operations.

💡Key agreements included Karnataka-based Astrobase Space Technologies signing an MoU with Italy’s Impulso Space to support launch opportunities and integrated mission management, while Kepler Aerospace signed a framework agreement with Apogeo Space to expand ground station-as-a-service infrastructure and collaborate on CubeSats, payload systems, and satellite operations. VyomIC also announced a separate collaboration focused on navigation and resilient infrastructure technologies.

Singapore

Singapore Space & Technology Think Tank has launched the Singapore Space Lab, described as the country’s first dedicated space innovation lab focused on commercial applications of space technologies in Southeast Asia. Supported by Deloitte, the lab will provide a platform for businesses, startups, investors and government agencies to explore technologies including Earth observation, satellite communications and geospatial analytics across sectors such as agriculture, logistics, energy and urban planning.

SST Think Tank and Deloitte said wider adoption of Earth observation data could generate nearly $100 billion in cumulative GDP value across Southeast Asia between 2023 and 2030, while the broader Asia-Pacific region could see $619 billion by 2030.

💡The launch comes as regional governments expand investments in space infrastructure and regulation, including Singapore’s establishment of a national space agency in 2026 and Vietnam’s opening of the Vietnam National Space Centre in Hanoi earlier this year.

USA-Japan

Axiom Space said astronaut Wakata Koichi will lead its newly planned Japanese subsidiary set to launch in July. The company is developing a commercial space station intended to succeed the International Space Station (ISS), which is scheduled to end operations around 2030.

Axiom Space, working with NASA’s plan to transition low-Earth orbit operations to private industry, aims to support a station with four permanent astronauts and is considering including a Japanese astronaut in its crew roster.

💡Wakata, a former Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut and ISS commander, said he will help ensure Japanese technical expertise contributes to future space infrastructure as he takes on a corporate leadership role following his 2024 retirement from JAXA.

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**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: France Partners Drive Digital Payment Expansion in Malaysia; AIXTRON to Build Semiconductor Equipment Plant in Penang; Animoca Brands Funds AI Agent Platform Projects; Indonesia and China Link QR Payment Systems Across Borders; Kredivo Acquires Majority Stake in Vietnam’s Timo Digital Bank; Malaysian Tech Firms Secure Export Deals at Tokyo and SEMICON Events; PDG Secures $856 Million for Indonesia Data Center Campus; Bithumb and SSI Group Partner on Vietnam Crypto Exchange Launch; and Thailand Approves $29 Billion in Digital and Infrastructure Projects

Environmental Sustainability: ADB and Japan Launch Energy Security and Transition Initiative; EU, Brazil, and China Form Global Carbon Market Coalition; New Zealand Appoints Xpansiv Subsidiary to Run ETS Auctions; Pakistan and China Explore Green Finance Cooperation; Philippines Solar Project Reaches $300 Million Financial Close; and Singapore, Philippines Sign Carbon Credit Cooperation Agreement

Aviation: Australia Introduces National Jet Fuel Reserve and Stockholding Rules; India Approves Emergency Credit Support for Airlines; AirAsia Orders 150 Airbus A220 Aircraft; SATS Raises Stake in Chinese Airline Catering Firm; ITP Aero Expands Manufacturing Facility in India; Taiwan Airlines Maintain Fuel Surcharge Levels Despite Rising Costs; and Vietjet Signs Aviation Cooperation Deals in India

Advanced Air Mobility: Skyportz Unveils Vertiport Surface Design to Address Safety Challenges; China Issues Pilot Licences for AS700 Airship Operations; Bamboo-Based Composite Drone Completes First Flight in Tianjin; SkyDrive Forms Osaka Vertiport Consortium for eVTOL Services; Hyundai and KAI Partner on Electric Air Mobility Aircraft; and Skyports Signs Gold Coast Agreement for AAM Infrastructure Development

Marine: Australia Advances Port Of Hastings Offshore Wind Project; OOCL Challenges US Maritime Regulator In Court; PIL, PSA And DNV Launch Singapore Green Shipping Service; South Korea Launches Autonomous Ship AI Data Platform; and DP World Extends Laem Chabang Port Concession

Space: China Tianzhou-9 Undocks From Tiangong Station; China Prepares Tianzhou-10 Cargo Launch To Tiangong; China Tests Orbital Satellite Refuelling With Yuxing-3 06; Skyroot Aerospace Becomes India Space Unicorn After US$60 Million Round; Pixxel And Sarvam Plan India Orbital Data Centre Satellite; and Japan Startup Sends Gundam-Inspired Robot To ISS

Financing & Investments

Digital finance, AI platforms, and infrastructure investment are accelerating across Asia, with Malaysia expanding tokenized payment systems through IDEMIA and Thailand approving large-scale data centre projects worth tens of billions.

France-Malaysia

France-based IDEMIA Secure Transactions has partnered with Payments Network Malaysia to support the expansion of digital payments in Malaysia through the MyDebit network. Under the collaboration, banks will enable MyDebit cards for mobile payments using IST’s tokenization platform integrated with PayNet’s domestic payment infrastructure.

💡The rollout will involve 11 banks, with AmBank becoming the first to allow customers to add MyDebit cards to mobile wallets for proximity and in-app payments. IST said its tokenization platform replaces card details with digital tokens to support secure NFC, online and in-app transactions. The system also uses AES 256 encryption to help protect payment data and reduce cybersecurity risks.


Germany-Malaysia

AIXTRON SE has signed an agreement with Malaysian Investment Development Authority to establish a greenfield manufacturing facility in Penang, Malaysia. The plant will be located at Bandar Cassia Technology Park on an 8.5-acre site and will include office space, cleanrooms, and logistics areas for producing semiconductor deposition equipment used in advanced chip manufacturing.

💡The facility is designed to support production of equipment for next-generation semiconductors used in power electronics, communications, optoelectronics, and computing applications.


Hong Kong

Animoca Brands will invest up to $10 million in early-stage projects built on its AI agent platform, “Minds by Animoca Brands.” The program targets developers in gaming, finance, productivity, and social applications, provided they integrate Minds as a core component. Minds allows users to deploy persistent AI agents without managing backend infrastructure.

💡Selected projects will receive funding, technical support, and access to Animoca Brands’ ecosystem of more than 600 Web3-related projects. The company said capital will be allocated based on project quality rather than a fixed timeline. Minds is positioned as part of an “agentic web” concept, where autonomous AI agents operate and interact across digital systems.


Indonesia-China

Indonesia and China have launched a cross-border QR payment linkage connecting Indonesia’s QRIS payment system with Chinese payment platforms through Alipay+ and UnionPay International. The initiative, introduced under the guidance of Bank Indonesia and People’s Bank of China, allows users of Alipay and the UnionPay App to make payments at more than 40 million QRIS merchants in Indonesia, while QRIS-supported Indonesian payment apps can scan over 80 million Alipay and UnionPay QR codes in China.

💡The system is intended to support local currency transactions and improve payment access for tourism and trade.


Indonesia-Vietnam

Indonesia-based BNPL firm Kredivo has acquired a 99.99 percent stake in Timo Digital Bank, expanding its presence in Vietnam and strengthening its regional digital financial services business. The acquisition follows a recent funding round backed by investors including Mizuho Bank, Amazon, Asia Partners, Square Peg Capital and Cathay Innovation.Existing Timo shareholders Phoenix Holdings and VinaCapital will retain minority stakes in the expanded Kredivo Vietnam.

💡Founded in 2015, Timo provides digital banking services including payments, savings and deposits. Timo will continue operating under its current brand as Kredivo Group’s digital banking business in Vietnam, while Kredivo Vietnam will rebrand as Timo Credit. Kredivo Group operates consumer credit, digital banking and SME financing businesses in Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand.

Malaysia-Japan

Malaysian technology firms generated more than MYR 450 million ($115.09 million) in potential export deals at SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, according to Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation. The opportunities were linked to demand for AI, mobility and autonomous technology solutions. Among the agreements announced was a collaboration between CitySageand Japan’s Eight Knot to explore AI-driven maritime mobility applications. MDEC said it arranged more than 150 meetings between Malaysian companies and international partners across sectors including fintech, robotics and semiconductors.

💡Separately, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation said potential exports worth MYR 126.42 million ($32.33 million) were recorded at SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026. Malaysia’s electrical and electronics sector contributed MYR 711.44 billion ($181.93 billion), or 44.3 percent of total exports in 2025, led by semiconductor devices and integrated circuits.


Singapore-Vietnam

Singapore-based Princeton Digital Group said it has secured about $856 million in financing for the development of its 120-MW JC3 data center campus in Indonesia. The financing includes a fully underwritten $456 million syndicated facility from banks including DBS, HSBC, Maybank, SMBC and Standard Chartered, with an additional accordion facility of about $400 million under discussion. PDG said the financing was arranged under its Green Finance Framework.

💡The JC3 campus is being developed in Greenland International Industrial Center in Bekasi Regency, Greater Jakarta, with an initial investment of $1 billion.


South Korea-Vietnam

South Korean virtual asset exchange Bithumb and SSID, a subsidiary of SSI Securities, have signed an agreement to jointly launch and operate a virtual asset exchange business in Vietnam. The partnership includes potential strategic equity investment by Bithumb in an SSID-designated entity, subject to future regulatory approval for virtual assets in Vietnam.

💡The companies said they will cooperate on exchange infrastructure, wallet and custody systems, security, risk management, regulatory support and product development. The move follows Vietnam’s 2025 resolution to pilot cryptocurrency exchanges for five years.

Thailand

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has approved six projects worth a combined 958 billion baht ($29 billion), led by large-scale digital infrastructure investments, including major data center expansion by TikTok System (Thailand). The TikTok-related project, valued at 842 billion baht ($25 billion), will expand servers and data processing capacity across Bangkok, Samut Prakan, and Chachoengsao to support growing digital demand and AI-driven services.

💡Other approved projects include a 46 billion baht data center by Skyline Data Center and Cloud Services and a 24.6 billion baht facility by Bridge Data Centers IIO (Thailand) in Chonburi. The remaining approvals cover renewable energy, recycling, wind power, and fertilizer production projects.

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Environmental Sustainability

Climate cooperation is shifting into implementation mode, with the EU–Brazil–China carbon market coalition and the Singapore–Philippines carbon credit agreement both signalling growing alignment on operational emissions trading systems.

Asia-Japan

Asian Development Bank and Japan have launched a joint initiative called ACCEL (Action for Creating Energy Security for Long-term Resilience) to help countries and businesses in Asia and the Pacific manage rising energy costs while supporting longer-term energy transition efforts. The program is aimed at addressing fuel price volatility, supply constraints, and liquidity pressures affecting developing economies and private sector firms, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Under ACCEL, ADB will deploy existing financing tools such as credit lines, guarantees, and policy-based loans to support businesses facing funding stress, alongside technical assistance for SMEs. The initiative will also fund renewable energy, energy efficiency, and conservation projects to improve long-term energy resilience.

💡Japan will contribute through ADB-administered trust funds and coordinate with institutions including Japan International Cooperation Agency and Japan Bank for International Cooperation, with further implementation details to be announced later.

EU-Brazil-China

The European Union, Brazil, and China have jointly launched the Open Coalition on Compliance Carbon Markets to improve cooperation on carbon pricing systems worldwide. The initiative is intended to strengthen the transparency, integrity, and effectiveness of domestic carbon markets, including emissions trading systems and carbon taxes, in support of global climate goals under the Paris Agreement.

The coalition was formally launched in Florence, Italy, with participation from senior officials representing the EU, China, and Brazil. New Zealand and Germany are the first countries to join as members, with further participation expected. Brazil will chair the coalition for the first two years, while China and the European Commission will serve as co-chairs.

💡The platform will focus on issues such as carbon accounting standards, monitoring and verification systems, and improving the quality of carbon credits, with a work plan expected to be finalized in 2026.

New Zealand

New Zealand has appointed a new operator to run auctions under its Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), following an open tender process by the Ministry for the Environment. The contract has been awarded to CBL Markets, an Australian subsidiary of Xpansiv, which will take over auction delivery from September 2026.

💡Under the transition plan, NZX will continue operating the June 2026 auction before handing over responsibilities. The new contract runs through to the end of 2030, with an option to extend to 2035. The Ministry said Xpansiv brings experience in operating environmental markets across multiple jurisdictions and will work with NZX to ensure a smooth transition for ETS participants.


Pakistan-China

Pakistan is seeking to expand cooperation with China on climate finance, focusing on developing bankable green projects through investment, technology transfer, and carbon market mechanisms. The discussions took place in Islamabad between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Musadik Malik and Ma Jun, head of the Institute of Finance and Sustainability.

The talks highlighted China’s experience in building green finance systems and scaling climate-related investments, alongside Pakistan’s need to attract funding for adaptation and mitigation projects due to its exposure to extreme weather events. Pakistan also outlined plans for a “Green Fields” initiative aimed at linking climate-focused entrepreneurs with investors.

💡Both sides discussed potential cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and low-carbon production systems.

Philippines

A 440 MWp solar project in Ilagan City, Isabela in the Philippines has reached financial close, backed by a roughly US$300 million international financing package. The project is being developed by TotalEnergies and Nextnorth, and is supported by a lender group including ING Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, and Standard Chartered. It is currently under construction and is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2027.

More than half of the project’s output will be sold under long-term contracts with retail electricity suppliers AdventEnergy and PrimeRES, while the remainder will be supplied to the national grid through the Philippines’ Green Energy Auction Program.

💡The deal is described as the largest internationally financed solar project in the country to date, with legal advisory provided to lenders by Norton Rose Fulbright. The structure is positioned as a blended offtake model combining contracted and auction-based revenue streams.

Singapore-Philippines

Singapore and the Philippines have signed the Philippines’ first Article 6 Implementation Agreement under the Paris Agreement during ASEAN Climate Week in Manila, establishing a legally binding framework for cross-border carbon credit generation and transfer.

💡The agreement enables approved mitigation projects in the Philippines to generate carbon credits for transfer to Singapore, subject to Article 6 rules on authorization and accounting. It is expected to channel climate finance into local projects with potential impacts on employment, energy security, and pollution reduction.

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Aviation

The aviation sector is navigating short-term financial stress while committing to long-term capacity growth, as India introduces emergency airline credit support and AirAsia places a major order for 150 Airbus A220 aircraft.

Australia

Australia will require minimum stockholdings equivalent to 50 days of jet fuel under new federal fuel security measures aimed at strengthening supply resilience. The policy is part of a $10 billion Australian Fuel Security and Resilience package, which includes $3.2 billion to establish a government-owned fuel reserve of about one billion litres covering jet fuel and diesel.

💡Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the reserve would supplement private-sector minimum stock obligations, which will also be increased, and address Australia’s relatively low strategic fuel storage compared with other International Energy Agency members.

India

India has approved an emergency credit support package of up to INR50 billion (US$529 million) for domestic airlines under the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0. The measure, announced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation on May 6, 2026, increases earlier planned support of INR40 billion.

💡The scheme provides a 90% government credit guarantee on airline loans, with a cap of INR10 billion per borrower plus an additional INR5 billion linked to equity infusion. Loans will have a tenure of up to seven years, including a two-year repayment moratorium, and will be available to eligible airlines with standard loan accounts as of March 31, 2026. .


Malaysia-Canada

AirAsia has signed a purchase agreement for 150 Airbus A220-300 aircraft, marking the largest single firm order for the A220 programme and its entry as a new customer for the aircraft type. AirAsia will also become the launch customer for a new A220 cabin layout with up to 160 seats. The aircraft will be deployed across ASEAN and Central Asia routes, with larger aircraft redeployed to longer-haul services.

💡The A220 is designed to carry 100–160 passengers over distances of up to 3,600 nautical miles and is certified to operate with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel, with Airbus targeting 100% SAF compatibility by 2030.

Singapore-China

SATS Ltd has increased its stake in Nanjing Weizhou Airline Food Corp to 90% after acquiring an additional 40% interest from founder Luo Bo. The move consolidates SATS’ control of the China-based frozen aviation meals producer, which supplies airlines across the country.

💡SATS first invested in NWA in 2019 with a 50% stake and said the business has since more than doubled revenue as Chinese carriers expand use of frozen inflight meals.

Spain-India

ITP Aero has held a groundbreaking ceremony for an expanded manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, India. The company said it has operated in the city for 15 years and is expanding its local footprint and production capacity.

💡The new site is scheduled to be operational in 2027 and will manufacture components for commercial aviation engines, including fabricated and machined parts. It is expected to create more than 350 jobs over five years, in addition to the company’s existing manufacturing workforce in the region.


Taiwan

Taiwan’s major airlines will keep international passenger fuel surcharges unchanged this month at US$45 for short-haul routes and US$117 for long-haul routes. EVA Airways and Starlux Airlines confirmed the decision on Monday, while China Airlines also said it would maintain current levels in line with the Civil Aviation Administration’s pricing mechanism.

The unchanged surcharges remain in place despite higher aviation fuel costs, which Taiwan’s state-run refiner CPC Corp said averaged US$208.78 per barrel, far above the US$40 benchmark used for surcharge calculations.

💡Airlines said they are absorbing most of the additional fuel expenses, with EVA Airways estimating it covers about 85% of long-haul extra costs and 66% of short-haul costs, while Starlux said it absorbs roughly 66% and 43% respectively.

Vietnam-India

Vietjet has signed cooperation agreements with India’s GMR Airports Limited and Bird Group to explore joint work in aviation, logistics, infrastructure, technology, tourism, and related services.

💡Under the agreements, Vietjet and GMR Airports Limited will examine collaboration in airport development, logistics, aviation services, and smart airport projects, while the partnership with Bird Group will focus on ground handling, training, aviation technology, and travel and hospitality services.

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Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility is moving into early operational planning, with SkyDrive forming an Osaka vertiport consortium and Skyports advancing infrastructure agreements in Australia to support future eVTOL networks.

Australia

Skyportz has released details of its “Aeroberm” vertiport surface technology, which it says is designed to address operational challenges for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, including rotor downwash, noise, and lithium-ion battery fire risks.The company said computational fluid dynamics analysis conducted with Swinburne University indicates the modular fractal panel design can dissipate rotor energy more effectively than conventional surfaces, while also reducing noise impacts.

💡Skyportz added that the system is being positioned for potential use in new or retrofit vertiport sites, as regulators in the U.S. and Europe increase focus on safety and environmental requirements for urban air mobility infrastructure.



China

China has issued its first batch of pilot licences for the Xiangyun AS700, its first domestically developed crewed airship produced by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). The licences were granted by the Civil Aviation Administration of China to four pilots trained under AVIC’s Special Vehicle Research Institute.

💡The airship is designed for applications including tourism, emergency response, aerial surveying, and urban operations. Authorities said the milestone establishes a domestic training pipeline for airship operations, with 44 units already on order and plans to scale up training capacity as demand for commercial deployment grows.

China

A tilt-rotor UAV developed with bamboo-based composite materials has completed its maiden flight in Tianjin. The International Centre for Bamboo and Rattan said it is the first fixed-wing UAV globally to use more than 25% bamboo-based structural materials.

The drone was jointly developed by the centre, the Beihang University Ningbo Innovation Research Institute and Long Bamboo Technology Group. It has a wingspan of over 2.5 metres, weighs about 7 kilograms, can take off vertically, and has a flight endurance of more than one hour.

💡Researchers said the bamboo-based composite structure makes the aircraft over 20% lighter than comparable carbon-fibre designs and reduces material costs significantly, with further testing conducted to meet airworthiness standards.

Japan

SkyDrive Inc. has formed Japan’s first consortium for the commercial operation and shared use of an eVTOL vertiport in Osaka. The group includes Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, Osaka Metro Co., Ltd., Soracle, and Marubeni Corporation, and will support the planned commercialisation of the Osakako Vertiport in Osaka Bay.

The consortium will focus on establishing operational frameworks for electric vertical takeoff and landing services and integrating existing infrastructure such as helicopter landing sites to support future air mobility services.

💡SkyDrive said the initiative builds on prior demonstration flights in the Osaka area and aims to advance preparation for commercial eVTOL operations in the region.

South Korea

Hyundai Motor Group and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft based on electrified propulsion systems. The agreement brings together Hyundai’s electric vehicle powertrain capabilities, through its Supernal unit, and KAI’s aircraft design and manufacturing expertise.

💡The collaboration covers joint aircraft development as well as wider coordination on supply chains, certification processes, and commercialisation strategies. Supernal will lead design and engineering of the AAM platform, while KAI contributes airframe development and aerospace systems, with both companies aiming to position the project for global civilian air mobility markets.

UK-Australia

Skyports Infrastructure has signed a memorandum of understanding with the City of Gold Coast to explore the development of advanced air mobility infrastructure in the region. Under the MoU, Skyports will assess potential vertiport sites, support planning and regulatory processes, and develop infrastructure for a future network, with the intention of operating it over time.

💡The proposed network is intended to support eVTOL services, with potential routes aimed at reducing travel times between key locations such as the Gold Coast Airport and central business and tourism areas. Skyports said it is also in discussions with airport operators and other stakeholders on potential site integration as part of early-stage planning.

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Marine

Maritime and port sectors are increasingly focused on decarbonisation, digitalization, and regulatory pressure, while also facing rising legal and operational complexity, as seen in OOCL’s challenge to US maritime enforcement and Singapore’s rollout of verified green logistics systems.

Australia

The Victorian government will invest more than A$124 million to advance planning and environmental approvals for the proposed Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at the Port of Hastings. The funding will go toward completing the Environmental Effects Statement process for the port, which is designed to handle turbine assembly and staging before offshore installation.

💡The terminal forms part of Victoria’s offshore wind rollout strategy, aimed at strengthening energy supply and sustaining Gippsland’s role in the state’s energy system. An auction for the first 2GW of offshore wind capacity is expected in August, with projected output sufficient to power about 1.5 million homes.

Hong Kong-USA

Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) has filed a legal challenge in a US federal court seeking to halt proceedings by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) and overturn a $45m penalty related to alleged violations of the US Shipping Act. The carrier argues that the FMC’s use of administrative law judges to adjudicate enforcement cases is unconstitutional and that such disputes should instead be heard in federal courts with jury trials.

💡The case stems from an FMC ruling that found OOCL liable for failing to meet space commitments and for retaliatory conduct during pandemic-era shipping disruptions, resulting in a record reparations order of about $45.6m linked to the bankruptcy estate of Bed Bath & Beyond.

Singapore

Pacific International Lines (PIL), PSA International, and DNV have introduced a joint green logistics service in Singapore focused on reducing Scope 3 emissions for transhipped cargo. The initiative links emissions reductions across shipping, port handling, and inland logistics, with pilot operations planned for May.

💡PIL will contribute vessel operations and fuel-related measures, while PSA will focus on lower-emission terminal and landside activities. DNV will support the system with digital tracking and independent verification of emissions data, enabling more consistent reporting for cargo owners moving through the Port of Singapore.


South Korea

South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) and Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) have launched a four-year Autonomous Ship AI Data Platform project to support development of autonomous navigation technologies. Around 25 organizations, including shipbuilders and shipping companies, have signed agreements to share operational data for training AI systems used in functions such as collision avoidance, route optimisation, and equipment failure prediction.

💡The programme runs until 2029 with a total budget of about US$23.9 million, combining public funding and private investment. The Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering (KRISO) will lead technical implementation, standardising and collecting data across navigation, engine systems, and digital twin applications.


UAE-Thailand

DP World has secured a five-year extension to operate the B5 container berth at Thailand’s Laem Chabang Port through its joint venture Laem Chabang International Terminal (LCIT). The concession runs from May 2026 to April 2031 and maintains the company’s role at Thailand’s main deep-sea port, which is the country’s largest container gateway.

💡DP World said the extension will support ongoing investment in terminal capacity and electrification, including the rollout of electric handling equipment and expanded inland logistics links connected to the port.

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Space

Space activity is shifting from exploration toward operational capability and infrastructure use, with China expanding station logistics and in-orbit servicing tests while India and Japan advance commercial launch and robotic applications alongside emerging orbital computing concepts.

China

China’s Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft has successfully undocked from the Tiangong space station and entered independent flight. The vehicle will later conduct a controlled re-entry, with any remaining debris expected to fall into a designated safe ocean area.

💡Launched in July 2025 from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Hainan, Tianzhou-9 delivered supplies including crew provisions, propellant, and experimental equipment for the orbiting station. The mission supports ongoing operations of China’s space station programme, with the cargo craft now completing its final phase before atmospheric re-entry.

China

China’s Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft, mounted on a Long March 7 Y11 rocket, has been moved to the launch pad at the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan, entering the final preparation phase ahead of its scheduled launch. The China Manned Space Agency said the spacecraft and ground systems are in stable condition, with pre-launch checks and integrated testing now underway.

The mission will deliver around 6.3 tonnes of supplies to the Tiangong space station, including crew provisions, propellant, experimental equipment, and a third next-generation extravehicular spacesuit. The payload also includes scientific experiments and equipment for microgravity research.

💡After launch, Tianzhou-10 will support ongoing operations for the station’s current astronaut crews and replace the recently departed Tianzhou-9 cargo vehicle.

China

China’s Yuxing-3 06 satellite has completed in-orbit tests of robotic arm-assisted refuelling and docking technologies.Developed by Emposat subsidiary Sustain Space, the satellite carried out simulated propellant transfer operations using a flexible robotic arm designed for precise rendezvous and docking tasks in orbit.

💡The mission tested multiple control modes, including autonomous operation, real-time ground guidance, and vision-based servo control. Researchers say the system is intended to support future in-orbit servicing concepts, where dedicated spacecraft could refuel or maintain other satellites, reducing the need to decommission spacecraft once onboard fuel is exhausted.


India

Skyroot Aerospace has raised US$60 million in a funding round co-led by GIC and Sherpalo Ventures, with participation from investors including Arkam Ventures, BlackRock-managed funds, Playbook Partners, and family offices.

💡The company said the round brings total funding to US$160 million and values it at about US$1.1 billion, making it India’s first space “unicorn.” Skyroot said the capital will support scaling its Vikram-1 launch vehicle programme, expanding manufacturing capacity in Hyderabad, and advancing development of its next-generation Vikram-2 rocket.


India

Pixxel and Sarvam AI have announced a partnership to develop India’s first orbital data centre satellite, called Pathfinder.The 200 kg-class satellite, scheduled for launch as early as Q4 2026, will combine Pixxel’s hyperspectral imaging payload with onboard AI compute provided by Sarvam AI.

💡The system is designed to process Earth observation data in orbit using GPU-based computing, reducing reliance on ground processing and enabling near real-time analysis for applications such as environmental monitoring and infrastructure tracking.

Japan

A Japanese startup, Space Entry Co., is preparing to send a spherical space robot inspired by the anime Mobile Suit Gundam to the International Space Station (ISS) as early as spring next year. The 21 cm device, named “Everyone’s Haro,” is designed to test autonomous movement, communication, and interaction in microgravity conditions.

Once aboard the ISS’s Kibo module, the aluminum robot will use propeller-based propulsion to move in all directions, while onboard sensors, a camera, microphone, and LED indicators will support navigation and communication with astronauts.

💡The project aims to evaluate how small autonomous systems could operate in space and support future robotic applications.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: AirTrunk Commits $3B To Johor Data Center Expansion; Malaysia Launches First Tokenized Sukuk Issuance; DPS Partners Alibaba Affiliate For $1.1B AI Data Center In Melaka; Philippines And Singapore Seal First Carbon Credit Deal; MAS Paves Way For Dual Listings With SGX–Nasdaq Framework; TechX Ventures Signs Global Security AI Partnerships At MTX 2026; Featherless.ai Raises $20M To Scale Open-Source AI Infrastructure; Cube Secures $3.7M To Expand AI Commerce Data Platform; and Vietnam Approves $1B Singapore-Backed Hyperscale Data Centers

Environmental Sustainability: Australia Environmental Standards Face Criticism Over Weaker Biodiversity Safeguards; Japan Launches AI-Based Carbon Credit System For Cooling Efficiency; Malaysia Links Vendor Financing To Energy Transition Under Petronas Program; Singapore Assesses Geothermal Energy Potential In National Decarbonization Push; and UK-Backed $1.5B Climate Platform Targets Asia’s Coal-Heavy Economies

Aviation: Australia Tightens Fuel Buffers As Aviation Supply Pressures Persist; China Clears Sinopec Full Control Of Jet Fuel Group Under Competition Review; Japan Tests Humanoid Robots For Airport Ground Operations Amid Labour Shortages; Greater China Aviation Authorities Deepen Cooperation On Aircraft Certification And Fuel Standards; New Zealand Accelerates Aviation Rule Reform To Unlock Drone And Training Modernization; and Thailand Imposes Stricter Airline Cancellation And Refund Rules To Strengthen Passenger Protection

Advanced Air Mobility: China, Latin America See First Piloted eVTOL Flights As EHang Expands Regulatory Pathways; Volant Aerotech Raises $300M To Scale Flying Taxi Production; China Tests Fully Autonomous Cargo Aircraft With 2,360 km Range; India Builds National eVTOL Infrastructure Network For Air Taxi Rollout; and Southeast Asia Expands AAM Use Cases Into Medical Air Mobility

Marine: Shipping Sector Accelerates Green Fuel Adoption And Fleet Expansion Across Asia; PSA Deepens China Port Investment To Strengthen Logistics Connectivity; South Korea Aligns Shipbuilding And Shipping Under National W.A.V.E Strategy; Hanwha Moves To Expand Defence Manufacturing Footprint In Canada; AI And Autonomy Partnerships Reshape Vessel Navigation And Efficiency; and OOCL Ordered To Pay Record $45.6M In US Shipping Act Case

Space: Australia Debates Space Agency Role Amid Sector Funding Pressure; Australia Advances Space Medicine AI For Deep-Space Applications; China Expands Rocket Manufacturing Capacity With New “Super Factory”; India-US Mission Launches Dual-Sensor Earth Observation Satellite; and Japan Tests Lunar-Gravity Food Production With Space Sake Experiment

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Financing & Investments

Southeast Asia is seeing coordinated growth in data center capacity and AI infrastructure alongside early-stage development of tokenized finance and carbon markets. Much of this activity is being shaped by cross-border partnerships between local regulators, sovereign funds, and international technology and investment firms.

Australia-Malaysia

AirTrunk plans to invest MYR12 billion ($3 billion) to develop two new data centers, JHB3 and JHB4, in Johor, Malaysia, expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia. Located in Iskandar Puteri, the facilities will deliver more than 280MW of combined IT load and sit near its existing JHB1 and JHB2 campuses, bringing total capacity in Malaysia to over 700MW and cumulative investment to about MYR27 billion.

💡The new campuses will support high-density cloud and AI workloads with energy-efficient designs and cooling systems using recycled water.


Malaysia

Khazanah Nasional Berhad and Securities Commission Malaysia have priced Malaysia’s first tokenized sukuk, with a nominal value of MYR100 million, marking the country’s initial issuance of a digitally represented Islamic bond using distributed ledger technology. The issuance is part of the Sukuk Danum Program under a broader MYR20 billion Islamic medium-term notes framework and is structured on a Wakalah bi al-Istithmar basis.

💡The pilot uses tokenization to create a secure digital “twin” of the sukuk, aimed at improving transparency, efficiency and market accessibility. Regulators and issuers described the transaction as a controlled test of digital capital market infrastructure involving institutional participants, including banks and pension funds, to assess readiness for broader adoption of tokenized instruments in Malaysia’s bond and sukuk market.


Malaysia-China

DPS Resources Bhd said its unit DPS Energy Sdn Bhd has signed an MoU with Hangzhou Xinfengwei Network Technology Co., Ltd., a firm affiliated with Alibaba Group Holding Limited, to explore developing artificial general intelligence data center infrastructure in Melaka, Malaysia. The proposed project could reach about $1.1 billion based on an initial capacity of 150MW to 180MW, with DPS providing land, power and regulatory oversight, while Xinfengwei supports demand generation, operations and market development.

💡The non-binding agreement will see both parties assess commercial and technical aspects ahead of potential definitive deals.


Philippines-Singapore

Singapore and Philippines have signed a legally binding agreement to collaborate on carbon credit projects under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, marking the Philippines’ first such deal. The implementation agreement sets a framework for generating and transferring carbon credits from emissions-reduction projects aligned with international rules, with further details on project authorization and methodologies to be issued later.

💡The pact enables developers to access a formal mechanism to produce high-quality credits, aiming to channel climate finance into the Philippines while supporting regional carbon market development.


Singapore

Monetary Authority of Singapore has issued its response to a public consultation on proposed amendments to the Securities and Futures Act 2001 to facilitate dual listings on Singapore Exchange. The framework will support the planned Global Listing Board, a joint initiative between SGX and Nasdaq, and aims to streamline IPO processes for companies seeking concurrent listings.

💡The proposals allow issuers to use a single set of offering documents for both exchanges and conduct pre-marketing with accredited and institutional investors in Singapore before filing a preliminary prospectus. They also introduce safe harbor provisions covering forward-looking disclosures, share buybacks and pre-determined trades, while incorporating feedback to further align regulatory requirements and facilitate post-listing activities.

Singapore

TechX Ventures announced multiple international agreements at the Milipol TechX Summit 2026 (MTX 2026), held April 28–30 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore, including a joint collaboration programme with the Korea Institute of Police Technology (KIPoT) and memorandums of understanding with the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME), the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), and the UC Berkeley Institute for Security & Governance. The partnerships are aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation in public safety innovation, startup development, and the deployment of AI-enabled security, policing, and emergency response technologies.

TechX Ventures, an arm of Singapore’s Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX) and a co-organizer of MTX 2026 alongside Civipol and Comexposium, played a central role in the event’s SPINN District under its Hatch programme.

💡The startup-focused zone brought together innovators from across Asia, including Hatch alumni and Dimension X participants, to showcase emerging public safety technologies and engage with government and industry stakeholders at one of Asia-Pacific’s largest security and public safety conferences.

Singapore

Featherless.ai has raised $20 million in a Series A round co-led by AMD Ventures and Airbus Ventures, with participation from BMW i Ventures, Kickstart Ventures, Panache Ventures and Wavemaker Ventures. The Singapore co-founded firm provides infrastructure for deploying open-source AI models and will use the funds to expand global capacity, launch a marketplace for specialised models and deepen integration across hardware platforms to lower inference costs.

💡The company supports more than 30,000 open models across language, vision and audio, positioning itself as a neutral layer independent of major cloud or hardware providers.

Thailand

Cube has raised $3.7 million in a Series A round led by Betatron Venture Partners, with participation from M Venture Partners and other investors. The Thailand-based firm said the funding will support investment in AI-enabled data enrichment technology, international expansion and growth with enterprise customers.

💡Founded in 2022, Cube provides digital commerce market data and insights, with operations across Southeast Asia and expansion into North Asia and Latin America.

Vietnam-Singapore

Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City have granted investment registration certificates for several projects, including two hyperscale data centers with a combined capital of nearly $1 billion, both involving Singapore-linked investors. The largest is Evolution DC VN HCMC, a $508.8 million facility with 52MW capacity focused on cloud computing, artificial intelligence and big data, backed by a consortium of Singapore firms Hathor, Frontier and Evolution.

💡A second hyperscale project, Starmason, carries $480.26 million in capital and a 60MW capacity, developed through a joint venture between Sembcorp Development and Vietnam’s BB Holdings.

Environmental Sustainability

Climate and environmental policy is increasingly being tied to financial instruments and infrastructure planning, with new mechanisms for carbon pricing, transition financing, and energy system development emerging across multiple markets. At the same time, there is ongoing tension between regulatory flexibility and the strength of environmental safeguards.

Australia

Green groups have accused the government of weakening proposed national environmental standards intended to protect threatened species and ecosystems under Australia’s nature law reforms. The draft standards, part of legislation passed in November, set out rules for developments affecting matters of national environmental significance, including endangered species, heritage areas and the Great Barrier Reef.

💡Under the revised draft, developers would be deemed compliant if they follow specified assessment processes or principles, rather than being required to demonstrate that environmental outcomes will be achieved. Conservation groups including the Wilderness Society and WWF-Australia said the changes shift the framework away from outcome-based protections recommended in the Samuel review, arguing they reduce enforceability and weaken safeguards for biodiversity.


Japan

Linkhola has launched a carbon credit methodology under its Earthstory platform to quantify emissions reductions from AI-controlled cooling systems. The approach allows energy savings from AI-optimised air conditioning in buildings to be measured and converted into tradable carbon credits, targeting a gap in voluntary carbon markets where software-driven efficiency gains have been difficult to standardise.

💡The methodology compares electricity use before and after AI deployment across building types, including offices and industrial facilities, and incorporates digital monitoring and verification tools. Linkhola said the framework is designed for global use, particularly in Asia where cooling demand is rising, and aims to align with emerging carbon market integrity standards as scrutiny of voluntary credits increases.


Malaysia

RHB Bank Berhad has signed an MOU with Petroliam Nasional Berhad to launch a sustainable vendor financing program (SVFP) under the Petronas Supplier Support Program. The initiative targets Malaysian oil and gas services and equipment vendors, particularly SMEs, to support adaptation to energy transition requirements while maintaining competitiveness and resilience, in line with the national energy transition roadmap.

💡The collaboration aims to enable a just and orderly transition by aligning financing with vendors’ capabilities, while supporting emissions reduction, energy security and long-term sector competitiveness.

Singapore

The Energy Market Authority has issued a request for proposal for a study on the feasibility of deploying geothermal energy systems in Singapore. The study will assess the technical, environmental and commercial viability of next-generation geothermal technologies as part of efforts to strengthen energy resilience and decarbonize the power sector.

💡The appointed consultant will identify potential sites, recommend policy frameworks and outline areas for further study, building on a nationwide geophysical survey launched in 2024. The work is intended to provide a basis for future decisions on geothermal deployment, with the consultant expected to be appointed in 2026.

UK-Asia

British International Investment has launched a $1.5 billion climate initiative for Asia under a new platform called British Climate Partners (BCP), aimed at accelerating emissions reductions in coal-reliant economies. The program will target markets including India, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam, where energy transition financing needs remain substantial.

💡The initiative will mobilize private capital alongside BII through equity platforms and mezzanine financing to scale climate projects and reduce early-stage investment risk. BII said the effort is designed to crowd in commercial investors and expand climate finance deployment, with a broader strategy that increases its share of climate-related investments and focuses more heavily on frontier and high-impact markets.

Aviation

Aviation systems are being reshaped by a mix of operational pressures and regulatory change, with governments focusing on supply security, automation, and cross-border standardisation. At the same time, passenger rights and efficiency reforms are being tightened as airlines and regulators adapt to labour constraints and rising travel demand.

Australia

Australia has strengthened its fuel reserves amid global supply uncertainty, with Energy Minister Chris Bowen saying the country currently holds about 43 days of petrol, 33 days of diesel, and 28 days of jet fuel. He said 56 fuel shipments are en route and around 4 billion litres have been contracted for delivery, while Western Australia has separately secured 12 million litres of diesel for regional stockpiles in Wyndham, Kwinana, and Esperance.

💡Bowen said Australia is “very well placed” to manage near-term disruptions despite ongoing pressure on global supply chains linked to Middle East tensions and constrained shipping routes. Authorities are monitoring conditions under the National Fuel Security Plan, while aviation fuel tightness has already contributed to operational adjustments by airlines, including network changes and flight reductions in parts of the region.

Australia-China

China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec) has received clearance from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to acquire full ownership of China National Aviation Fuel Group Limited (CNAF). The regulator assessed the proposed transaction under Phase 1 and found that the acquisition is unlikely to substantially lessen competition in any market. According to the ACCC’s determination, the combined market share from the merger would be low, estimated at under ten percent.

💡The two state-owned Chinese companies overlap in jet fuel production and supply within Australia. However, the ACCC concluded that the merged entity would continue to face sufficient competition from other fuel suppliers operating in the country, including Ampol, Viva Energy, Caltex, and BP.


Japan

JAL Ground Service and GMO AI & Robotics Corporation will begin a demonstration experiment in May 2026 to test humanoid robots for airport ground handling operations. The project focuses on using human-shaped robots to operate within existing airport environments without major infrastructure changes, addressing labour shortages in baggage handling, cabin cleaning and ground support equipment operations.

💡The trial will proceed in phases, starting with workflow analysis at airports followed by simulated operational testing to assess safety and efficiency. The companies aim to evaluate whether humanoid robots can reduce workload and supplement human staff amid rising travel demand and a shrinking workforce, with GMO AI & Robotics providing robot systems and JAL Ground Service supplying operational capabilities and safety standards.

Mainland China-Hong Kong-Macao

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) of Hong Kong, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Macao (AACM) have signed four cooperation arrangements. The agreements cover mutual acceptance of type certificates, joint certification work for the C929 aircraft, joint maintenance management, and airworthiness oversight of aviation fuels and chemicals.

💡The framework expands existing mutual recognition mechanisms for airworthiness, maintenance, and training approvals, and extends cooperation to include aircraft type certification for conventional and unmanned systems. Authorities said the arrangements will also support continued joint certification work on the C929 programme, building on prior collaboration for the C919 aircraft.

New Zealand

New Zealand has launched a two-year programme to modernise its civil aviation rules, compressing 20 years of planned changes into a streamlined process, Associate Transport Minister James Meager announced. The initiative aims to remove growth barriers, enhance safety and security, and align domestic rules with international standards, including addressing issues raised in International Civil Aviation 💡Organization audits.

💡The 23-project programme includes better enabling agricultural drone use, modernising pilot training and licensing, updating security rules to reduce costs for regional airports, and recognising overseas approvals for aircraft maintenance providers. The New Zealand Airports Association backed the move, citing long-standing issues around runway safety and infrastructure investment


Thailand

Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority and the Consumer Protection Board have agreed on stricter rules for flight cancellations, requiring airlines to notify passengers seven days in advance for international flights and three days for domestic flights, except in force majeure cases. Cash refunds must be processed within 14 days, credit card refunds within 45 days, and online travel agency refunds within 60 days; alternative travel or credit shells must be arranged within seven days of receiving documentation.

💡Airlines must also provide effective passenger contact channels, and travelers may seek compensation for consequential damages such as accommodation or car hire. Further discussions with carriers are set for May 5, to improve communication and complaint handling. Passengers can file complaints via CAAT’s website.

Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility is moving from demonstration to early infrastructure build-out, with China and other markets focusing on certification and aircraft development while India begins linking energy and transport networks for future air taxi operations. Use cases are also broadening into logistics and emergency services, suggesting parallel progress in both passenger and cargo applications.

China

EHang has completed the first people-carrying flights of its EH216-S pilotless eVTOL aircraft in Mexico and Latin America. The flights were conducted at Tulum International Airport by local operator Air Mobility during the Feria Aeroespacial México (FAMEX) Tulum Air Show 2026, demonstrating passenger-carrying operations in an airport environment.

💡The demonstrations build on earlier EH216-S trial flights in Mexico in 2025 under a Special Airworthiness Certificate issued by AFAC, which established a regulatory framework for uncrewed passenger operations. The latest flights support potential use cases including aerial tourism and airport shuttle services, and form part of ongoing efforts to advance certification and commercial deployment of the aircraft in Mexico.

China

Volant Aerotech has raised $300 million in a Series C funding round led by UAE-based Stone Venture, marking a record financing for a Chinese flying taxi developer. Shanghai-based Volant said the round also included participation from HongShan Capital Group, Fortera Capital, Future Capital, and Legend Capital.

💡The company said the funds will support airworthiness certification and mass production of its first commercial electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the VE25-100, as well as development of next-generation platforms. Volant, founded in 2021, has now raised more than CNY4 billion ($586 million) across multiple funding rounds and reports over 1,900 preorders for the aircraft, including more than 500 overseas orders.

China

China’s HH-200 uncrewed transport aircraft completed its maiden flight on April 15 in Weinan, Shaanxi province, following a 22-minute test that met all planned objectives, according to state media reports and Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). Chief designer Dong Jianhong said the aircraft is a fully autonomous system rather than a remotely piloted platform, with its certification targeted for 2027 and potential entry into commercial service later that year.

The HH-200 features a cockpitless design with a maximum payload of 1.5 tonnes, up to 2,360 km range, and a cruising speed of 310 km/h. It is designed for cargo logistics applications including border and coastal transport, regional freight routes, and cross-border operations, with additional potential use cases in emergency response and remote sensing.

💡The aircraft incorporates autonomous navigation systems, multiple safety protocols, and emergency response functions intended to support operations in complex weather and operating environments.

India

India’s Jio-bp and VJaitra Air Mobility have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop a nationwide infrastructure network for electric and hydrogen-powered air taxis. The collaboration will focus on integrating charging and hydrogen refuelling systems across next-generation vertiports to support VJaitra’s planned eVTOL fleet on urban and intercity routes.

💡Under the agreement, Jio-bp will design and deploy charging infrastructure and develop aviation-grade green hydrogen production and distribution capabilities. The partners plan to establish vertiports at Jio-bp fuel station sites along highways and urban corridors, enabling passenger handling, aircraft charging and refuelling, and integration with road-based transport systems for multimodal mobility.

India-Malaysia

eVTOL developer Dragale Aviation has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Malaysia’s Aerospace Medical Concierge Alliance (A.M.C.A). The partnership aims to explore AAM applications in medical operations across Southeast Asia.

💡The collaboration will focus on developing eVTOL-based air medical networks, integrated aviation-enabled healthcare systems, and emergency response infrastructure.

Marine

Marine developments are increasingly centered on decarbonization, digitalization, and industrial consolidation, with green fuels, autonomous systems, and port investments advancing alongside state-led coordination in major shipbuilding economies. At the same time, regulatory enforcement in global shipping is intensifying amid post-pandemic contract disputes and capacity pressures.

Hong Kong-Mainland China

Venture Energy has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding with Shanghai Shenji Energy & Environmental Technology to expand cooperation from spot trading into a broader green marine fuel supply partnership. The agreement, signed in Shanghai, establishes a hybrid framework combining short-term market supply with longer-term offtake commitments.

The collaboration will focus initially on green methanol, with plans to scale procurement from 2026, alongside trial bunkering, trading platform development and vessel technical services. The companies said the partnership aims to improve access to low-carbon fuels for shipping customers as international maritime decarbonisation regulations tighten.

Singapore

Yangzijiang Maritime Development, listed in Singapore, has ordered 10 new vessels, expanding its forward fleet across both tanker and bulk carrier segments. The company said it has signed contracts with Chinese shipyards for four 114,000 dwt product/crude tankers, four 49,800 dwt product and chemical tankers, and two 40,000 dwt bulk carriers, with deliveries scheduled between 2027 and 2029.

The latest order brings its total fleet to 105 vessels, including 53 on order. The 49,800 dwt tankers will be methanol-ready and all ships will comply with EEDI Phase 3 requirements.


Singapore-China

PSA International has secured an investment in the Xiamen Container Terminal Group in China’s Fujian province, which operates eight container terminals with a combined annual capacity of about 20 million TEUs. The deal was awarded through a public bidding process and forms part of PSA’s continued expansion in the region.

The investment also includes additional funding in the Xiamen Port Intermodal Logistics Hub to strengthen port, supply chain and inland transport connectivity. PSA said the move reinforces its long-term presence in Fujian, alongside its existing operations in Xiamen and Fuzhou, and supports efforts to build more integrated logistics networks along China’s southeast coast.

South Korea

South Korea has launched a Shipbuilding-Shipping Mutual Development Strategy Council to better integrate its shipbuilding and shipping sectors under a unified national framework. The initiative, unveiled in Seoul on 28 April, brings together government ministries, major shipbuilders including HD Hyundai, Samsung Heavy Industries and Hanwha, as well as shipping companies such as HMM and Pan Ocean. It will operate under the W.A.V.E. strategy, which targets coordinated development across vessel technology, industry cooperation, fleet expansion, and ecosystem building.

💡As part of the launch, industry players signed a memorandum of understanding on LNG transportation cooperation, while the government announced a 600 billion won ($407 million) programme to develop AI-based autonomous vessel technology.



South Korea-Canada

South Korea’s Hanwha Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA), pledging to build armoured vehicles in Canada if it secures a multi-billion-dollar submarine contract with the federal government. The proposal is part of Hanwha’s broader bid to supply submarines and defence systems while expanding Canada’s domestic defence manufacturing capacity.

💡Under the agreement, Hanwha and APMA would establish a Canadian automotive defence unit to produce military vehicles, including infantry fighting vehicles and other armoured platforms, using local labour and supply chains. The company says the initiative could support major job creation and retool idle automotive plants, positioning Canadian production as central to its industrial strategy alongside competitors in the submarine procurement process.

UK-South Korea

Orca AI has entered a strategic partnership with South Korea’s Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) to deploy autonomous vessel technologies across newbuilds and retrofit projects. Under the agreement, SHI will integrate Orca AI’s situational awareness platform into vessels using its Samsung Autonomous Ship (SAS) system, while Orca AI will incorporate SHI technologies including SVISION berthing assistance and autonomous speed control into its platform. The companies will jointly develop integrated solutions for navigation, berthing, and speed optimisation.

💡The collaboration also includes joint research and operational data sharing to improve real-time navigation, decision-making, and fuel efficiency.



USA-Hong Kong

A US administrative law judge has ordered Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) to pay $45.6 million in reparations to the bankruptcy estate of Bed Bath & Beyond, in a ruling that found the carrier violated provisions of the US Shipping Act during the Covid-era freight market disruption. The decision concluded that OOCL failed to meet contracted space commitments and engaged in retaliatory conduct after disputes arose over service performance.

The ruling found that OOCL, a Hong Kong subsidiary of COSCO Shipping Holdings, provided lower-than-contracted capacity during 2020–2022, when global shipping demand surged and spot rates increased significantly. The judge determined the carrier did not make sufficient efforts to meet its contractual obligations, while rejecting portions of the $165 million claim submitted by the bankruptcy estate.

💡The decision, which remains subject to review by the Federal Maritime Commission, is the largest reparations award issued by the agency to date.

Space

Space activity is increasingly split between scaling industrial launch capacity, advancing Earth observation capabilities, and developing life-support technologies for long-duration missions. Public-private partnerships and international collaboration remain central, particularly in Earth monitoring and early-stage experimentation for space habitation systems.

Australia

Industry representatives have called for an overhaul of the Australian Space Agency rather than further funding cuts, amid concerns over a potential 70% cumulative reduction in its budget ahead of Federal Budget 2026. The Space Industry Association of Australia said the agency remains central to developing the country’s space sector, which is estimated to employ tens of thousands of people and generate billions in annual turnover.

💡Industry figures argue the agency has supported early-stage projects and helped establish Australia’s credibility in the global space market, but say its coordination role across government could be strengthened. Some companies have raised concerns about limited direct support, while others point to its role in enabling launch approvals and regulatory progress for emerging firms such as Gilmour Space Technologies.


Australia

Aexa Aerospace and SpacePort Australia have formed a joint venture called the Hamilton Project to develop and train a medical artificial intelligence system designed for use in spacecraft and space station environments. The initiative aims to support diagnosis and treatment of crew members operating in resource-limited conditions, including future deep-space missions and space tourism.

💡The project combines Aexa Aerospace’s holographic medical systems, which have been tested aboard the International Space Station, with SpacePort Australia’s clinical and rural healthcare capabilities. The partners say the system will draw on remote medicine practices to build an AI model capable of assisting autonomous medical decision-making in space and other isolated environments.


China

Chinese private aerospace company CAS Space Co has completed a “super factory” in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province,designed to produce up to 12 Kinetica-2 liquid-propellant rockets annually at full capacity. The facility integrates assembly, testing and core component manufacturing, including propellant tanks, valves and structural sections, and follows the rocket’s successful maiden flight on March 30 carrying multiple payloads into orbit.

💡The company said the plant uses modular design and parallel assembly lines to shorten production cycles and increase launch flexibility, with full capacity expected within three to five years.

India-USA

Indian space-tech startup GalaxEye has launched “Drishti,” a satellite it describes as the world’s first OptoSAR system combining optical and radar imaging to capture high-resolution Earth observation data in real time regardless of weather conditions. The 190 kg satellite was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in the United States as part of the CAS500-2 mission.

💡The Bengaluru-based firm said Drishti integrates synthetic aperture radar with optical sensors to enable simultaneous imaging of the same location, aimed at improving accuracy over traditional dual-satellite approaches. The satellite is designed for applications including defence, agriculture, disaster response, maritime monitoring and infrastructure planning.


Japan

DASSAI Inc. and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries have completed the first mission of the “DASSAI MOON Project,” aimed at testing sake production under lunar-gravity conditions. Brewing equipment and raw materials were sent to the International Space Station and used in experiments aboard the Japanese “Kibo” module under simulated lunar gravity, where fermentation was successfully confirmed.

💡The mash was later returned to Earth and refined into sake at DASSAI’s brewery, producing about 116ml of finished product, including a limited titanium-bottled edition. The companies said the results show alcohol fermentation is feasible in reduced gravity, while also indicating slower fermentation rates compared with Earth, as part of broader research into future space-based food production systems.


USA-India

A new analysis from the NISAR mission has mapped ground subsidence in Mexico City, showing parts of the capital sinking by more than 2 centimetres per month. The satellite, jointly developed by India and the United States, uses dual-frequency radar to track subtle changes in Earth’s surface through clouds and vegetation.

💡Mexico City, home to around 20 million people and built on a depleted aquifer, has long experienced land subsidence driven by groundwater extraction and urban weight. The latest data highlights areas of rapid sinking across the city, including zones near key infrastructure such as the airport.

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**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: Cape EMS Launches GrandCape JV; Salmon Group Raises $100M To Scale Consumer Finance; PwC Invests S$4M In Trade Advisory Hub; Thunes Expands Real-Time Pay-To-Bank Services Into NZ; OCBC, Lion Global And DigiFT Launch Tokenized Physical Gold Fund On Blockchain; Nium Integrates USDC Stablecoin Payments Via Coinbase Partnership; Taiwan Approves Foreign Currency Dividend Payouts For Listed Companies; Taiwan Develops Financial-Sector LLM With Regulators; and Vietnam, South Korea Launch Cross-Border QR Payment System

Environmental Sustainability: ARC Hub for Solar Panel Recycling Launches At UNSW With $5M Funding For Circular PV Materials Recovery; Hong Kong Expands AI-Driven Environmental Impact Assessments; India Approves Small Hydropower Scheme; Japan And Sri Lanka Launch Climate-Smart Dairy And Community Recovery Projects; and Thailand Pilots AI-Based Fertiliser System To Enable Precision Agriculture

Aviation: dnata Builds Western Sydney Cargo Hub; Canada China Expand Air Services; Cathay Raises HK$2.08B Bond; India Adds SAF to Fuel Rules; Japan Airlines Raises Fuel Surcharges; and Glenorchy Air Launches Charter Brand

Advanced Air Mobility: EHang Draws Serbia Interest; SkyDrive Gains Key Regulatory Approval; SkyDrive Plans Highway eVTOL Hubs; and Airbility Launches ASEAN Drone Training

Marine: China Launches Electric Container Ship; Hong Kong Flags OTC Drug Water Pollution; Singapore Pushes Maritime Digitalisation and Decarbonisation; Singapore Funds Robotic Hull Cleaning Trials; Singapore Partners UNCTAD on Green Shipping; Singapore Tests Autonomous Feeder Vessels; Singapore Launches OCEANS-X Platform; and Neptune Robotics Expands in Singapore

Space: Australia Builds Disaster Comms Satellite System; China Sets Commercial Space Standards; Chinese Startup Funds Space Computing Network; India Plans University Space Labs; Japan Readies Martian Moons Mission; and Rocket Lab Launches Japanese Satellites

Financing & Investments

Financial and trade systems are increasingly being modernized through tokenization of assets, stablecoin-based settlement, AI-enabled financial tools, and regulatory adjustments that streamline cross-border payments, investment processes, and market operations while improving efficiency for institutions and investors.

Malaysia

Cape EMS Berhad has established GrandCape (M) Sdn Bhd through a joint venture with New Grand Tech (HK) Limitedto expand into advanced interconnect engineering for electric vehicles, artificial intelligence infrastructure and energy systems. The move is part of Cape EMS’s CEB 2.0 strategy to transition from a traditional assembly provider into an engineering-focused system integrator. GrandCape will serve as a manufacturing and engineering platform for flexible flat cables, high-density interconnects and solutions supporting AI data centres and battery energy storage systems.

💡The new entity is already operational at a facility in Johor, producing interconnect components designed for high-performance digital infrastructure and energy applications.


Philippines

Salmon Group has raised $100 million in a combined financing round to support its expansion in the Philippines consumer finance market. The package includes $60 million in equity led by US-based investors and $40 million in bond issuance under its existing Nordic bond programme, aimed at strengthening its lending capacity and overall balance sheet.

💡The funds will be used to expand product offerings, grow distribution channels, and increase capitalization of Salmon Bank, which operates under Philippine regulatory licences.

Singapore

PwC Singapore has announced a S$4 million investment over three years to set up a Trade Advisory Hub focused on supporting businesses navigating global trade conditions. Backed by the Singapore Economic Development Board, the hub will provide advisory services to companies in Singapore and the wider region on supply chains, regulatory changes and international growth strategies, with a focus on improving decision-making in a complex trade environment.

💡It will also support capability-building in trade and geopolitical risk analysis, with the aim of strengthening Singapore’s role as a regional centre for trade advisory and related professional services.

Singapore-New Zealand

Thunes has expanded its Direct Global Network by launching real-time Pay-to-Bank services into New Zealand, enabling direct transfers in NZD to local bank accounts.

💡The service supports both consumer and business payments through API integration or existing SWIFT connectivity, strengthening the company’s cross-border payment capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region.

Singapore-Southeast Asia

OCBC Bank, together with Lion Global Investors and digital asset exchange DigiFT, has launched the OCBC-LionGlobal Physical Gold Fund Token, billed as Southeast Asia’s first tokenized physical gold fund on a public blockchain. The GOLDX token is issued on the Ethereum and Solana networks, allowing institutional and accredited investors to subscribe using stablecoins or fiat currency via the DigiFT platform. Tokens are delivered to investors’ blockchain wallets and can be redeemed for stablecoins or fiat, providing on-chain exposure to the LionGlobal Singapore Physical Gold Fund.

💡The product operates within a regulated framework supported by entities overseen by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The underlying fund has recorded S$669.4 million in assets under management within months of launch, amid rising demand for tokenized real-world assets. The initiative targets institutional and Web3 investors, including family offices and high-net-worth individuals.

Singapore-USA

Nium has integrated USDC stablecoin payments through a partnership with Coinbase. The integration enables clients to send, receive and convert USDC into fiat currencies, with Coinbase providing custody, wallet and liquidity infrastructure. The service is now available across Nium’s platform.

💡The arrangement allows transactions across both blockchain and traditional payment systems within a single setup. It supports cross-border payouts and liquidity management for businesses operating in multiple markets, using Nium’s existing global regulatory and payments network.

Taiwan

Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission has announced that publicly listed companies will be allowed to distribute cash dividends in foreign currencies starting as early as next year. The move is intended to reduce currency conversion costs for foreign investors and align local market practices with international standards, given the high share of foreign ownership in Taiwan equities.

💡The policy will apply to foreign shareholders of companies listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange, Taipei Exchange and the emerging stock market. It is designed to streamline dividend payments, improve efficiency for custodians, and enhance the overall investment environment as Taiwan’s equity market continues to rank among the largest globally.


Taiwan

Taiwan has launched a project to develop a large language model for the financial sector, involving 16 financial institutions under the Taiwan FinTech Alliance. The initiative, led by CTBC Financial Holding and overseen by the Financial Supervisory Commission, aims to build AI systems tailored to local regulatory requirements and market practices, rather than relying on overseas platforms.

💡The model will be based on open-source technology and trained using financial sector data, regulatory materials and datasets from Taiwan’s digital infrastructure. Initial development will focus on banking, with plans to expand into insurance and securities. A prototype is expected later this year.

Vietnam-South Korea

Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam, Vietnam National Payment Corporation, KEB Hana Bank and GLN International have launched a cross-border QR code payment service linking Vietnam and South Korea. The system enables users in both countries to make retail payments using domestic banking apps and e-wallets by scanning QR codes, supporting cashless transactions and easier cross-border spending.

💡The network is operated through NAPAS’s VIETQRGlobal system in Vietnam, while GLN International connects South Korean banks and apps. BIDV and Hana Bank act as clearing banks to process transactions between the two markets. The initiative is intended to support tourism, trade and payment interoperability.

Environmental Sustainability

Focus is shifting toward managing renewable energy waste, improving environmental planning with digital tools, expanding small-scale clean energy projects, and using AI to make agriculture and resource use more efficient.

Australia

Australia has launched the ARC Hub for Photovoltaic Solar Panel Recycling and Sustainability at the University of New South Wales, backed by $5 million in government funding. The initiative focuses on developing recycling technologies for end-of-life solar panels as Australia prepares for rising volumes of solar waste in the coming decade.

💡The research program is aimed at improving material recovery from panels, including glass, silicon, silver and copper, and supporting the development of processes that could enable more circular use of solar materials over time.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s government has reiterated the importance of environmental impact assessments (EIAs) in infrastructure planning, while highlighting increased use of digital tools to improve efficiency. In a legislative update, the Environmental Protection Department said regulatory reforms and a data-driven assessment platform are helping project planners identify environmental risks earlier and streamline approval processes without reducing statutory protections.

💡The department’s Hong Kong Environmental Database integrates AI and geographic information systems to support early-stage project planning through shared environmental data and analysis tools. Officials said recent amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment framework have also simplified procedures and enabled more targeted assessments, with the aim of reducing delays and improving cost efficiency while maintaining oversight of air, water, noise and ecological impacts.

India

India has approved the Small Hydropower Development Scheme to expand decentralised renewable energy capacity, targeting about 1,500 MW of new generation between FY2026–27 and FY2030–31. The programme, cleared by the Union Cabinet and outlined by the Press Information Bureau, has an outlay of INR 2,584.6 crore and focuses on developing projects in mountainous and north-eastern regions with strong untapped river resources.

Small hydropower projects of up to 25 MW will receive targeted financial support, with higher assistance allocated to border and north-eastern states. The scheme also funds project preparation to strengthen the pipeline of developments and is expected to attract broader investment into the sector.


Japan-Sri Lanka

The Government of Japan has announced two new development projects in Sri Lanka under its Japanese Supplementary Budget, in collaboration with the Government of Sri Lanka and the United Nations Development Programme.

💡The first project will establish climate-smart dairy value chains to improve productivity, reduce emissions, and support smallholder farmers, particularly in climate-vulnerable regions. The second project aims to strengthen the role and capabilities of women deminers in the Northern and Eastern provinces, using improved tools and training to enhance land clearance and support resettlement and livelihoods in areas affected by past conflict and disasters.

Thailand

Thailand has launched a pilot programme to use data and artificial intelligence to create customised fertiliser formulas for individual farms, aiming to reduce costs and improve soil management. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, was introduced in Udon Thani and uses soil data and digital tools to calculate tailored nutrient mixes for different plots of land.

💡The system, developed by the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research, supports fertiliser blending through agricultural cooperatives and is being tested across several provinces with thousands of participating farmers. Officials said early trials indicate potential reductions in fertiliser costs while maintaining crop productivity, as the model shifts from uniform application to precision-based nutrient management using AI-driven recommendations.

Aviation

Aviation is adjusting capacity and pricing while expanding connectivity and gradually integrating sustainable fuels into regulated operations.

Australia

dnata will invest about A$32 million to develop a dedicated cargo terminal at Western Sydney International Airport. The operation will be based in a 5,000 sqm warehouse within the airport’s 24-hour cargo precinct, supported by additional land and fitted out by dnata with handling systems and operational infrastructure. A portion of the investment is allocated to equipment and technology intended to support scalable cargo processing, including temperature-sensitive and high-value shipments.

💡The facility is expected to begin freighter operations in 2026 and ultimately handle up to 60,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

Canada-China

Canada has approved an expansion of air services with China, allowing airlines from both countries to gradually increase passenger flights and operate up to 20 weekly cargo services as part of efforts to rebuild aviation links. The move follows recent high-level diplomatic engagement and is intended to support trade diversification and restore connectivity between the two markets, while still keeping capacity below pre-pandemic levels.

💡Industry data shows the Canada–China market has recovered steadily over the past year but remains significantly reduced compared with 2019. Officials say expanded air access is expected to improve passenger choice and strengthen freight and trade flows between the two countries.

Hong Kong

Cathay has completed pricing on its debut Hong Kong dollar public bond issuance, raising HK$2.08 billion through a three-year fixed-rate note. The transaction is positioned as the largest Hong Kong dollar public bond issued by a Hong Kong-based non-public sector company, and attracted broad participation from institutional investors including asset managers, banks, and private banking clients.

💡Proceeds are intended for general working capital purposes, and the bond sits under its existing medium-term note programme. Cathay also highlighted continued large-scale investment plans across its fleet, cabin products, lounges, and digital systems.

India

India has amended its aviation fuel regulations to include sustainable aviation fuel blended with conventional jet fuel under the existing Aviation Turbine Fuel control framework.

💡The update aligns SAF with national fuel standards and enables its regulated use in aviation while maintaining established safety and performance requirements. The change supports planned SAF blending targets for international flights later in the decade.

Japan

Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways are raising international fuel surcharges for tickets booked in May and June, citing higher aviation fuel costs linked to geopolitical tensions. Both carriers will significantly increase charges on long-haul routes, including services to North America and Europe, with shorter regional routes to South Korea also seeing sharp increases.

💡The airlines are also adjusting their surcharge structures to allow higher ceilings and more pricing tiers, giving them greater flexibility to respond to fuel price volatility. In addition, they will shorten the reference period used to calculate surcharges so adjustments can reflect market changes more quickly, while setting near-term levels below the maximum allowed tiers in light of government support measures.

New Zealand

Glenorchy Air will launch a new private charter brand, Queenstown Air Charter, operating out of Queenstown International Airport from October 2026. The service will use a newly built Tecnam P2012 twin-engine aircraft, which is currently in production and will be introduced in New Zealand following regulatory certification earlier in the year.

💡The aircraft, configured for up to nine passengers, will support business, leisure, and scenic charter services across domestic routes. Operations will be run under Glenorchy Air, alongside its existing fleet, with planned coverage spanning key South Island destinations as well as selected North Island cities.

Advanced Air Mobility

Development is shifting toward regulatory readiness, infrastructure integration, and workforce preparation for emerging air mobility systems.

China-Serbia

A Serbian government delegation led by senior economic officials visited EHang’s headquarters in Guangzhou to examine developments in autonomous aerial mobility and low-altitude aviation systems.

💡Discussions focused on regulatory approaches, commercialization pathways for advanced air mobility, and potential areas of cooperation linked to upcoming international events. Both sides indicated interest in further engagement on emerging urban air transport systems and the broader development of low-altitude aviation ecosystems.

Japan

SkyDrive has become the first dedicated eVTOL developer in Japan to receive Approved Design Organization certification from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

💡The designation confirms that the company meets required standards for aircraft design oversight and post-design inspection systems, allowing it to carry out certain certification-related processes under regulatory delegation.

Japan

SkyDrive has signed a partnership with West Nippon Expressway Company to explore the use of expressway service and parking areas as hubs for future electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air mobility services in Japan. The study will assess the commercial viability of operating short-distance aerial transport and sightseeing flights from existing highway infrastructure, integrating aviation access points into the road network.

💡The collaboration will also examine wider applications such as regional economic development and disaster response support using eVTOL aircraft.

South Korea-Philippines-Singapore

Airbility, a South Korea–based high-speed eVTOL developer, has signed a three-party agreement with the Danao City Government in the Philippines and Singapore’s KILSA Global to launch a drone pilot training program in Cebu. The initiative focuses on building local workforce capacity for drone operations, alongside broader applications in public safety, logistics, and disaster response across ASEAN markets.

💡The program will combine training modules, certified instruction, and hands-on deployment of drone systems, with implementation planned in phased stages beginning with trainer development followed by operational rollout.

Marine

A series of announcements during Singapore Maritime Week 2026 highlights accelerating adoption of automation, digital systems, and decarbonisation technologies alongside broader moves toward electrified shipping and improved environmental monitoring.

China

A fully electric containership has entered service in China under Ningbo Ocean Shipping. The vessel, built through cooperation within China State Shipbuilding Corporation divisions and affiliated research institutes, is designed for short-sea feeder routes and operates between Ningbo-Zhoushan and Jiaxing.

With a capacity of 740 TEU and a length of about 128 meters, the ship is intended to demonstrate the application of large-scale battery propulsion in commercial container transport.The vessel is powered by a containerized battery system with an installed energy capacity of roughly 19,600 kWh, driving dual electric propulsion motors.

💡A sister ship is undergoing sea trials with delivery planned in the near term, forming part of a small initial fleet intended to validate electric propulsion for coastal shipping routes in China.

Hong Kong

A study from researchers at City University of Hong Kong has identified over-the-counter medicines as a major contributor to pharmaceutical pollution in Hong Kong’s river and estuary systems. The research found that common products such as painkillers, antihistamines and caffeine accounted for up to 85% of detected pharmaceutical contamination during the wet season, exceeding levels from prescription drugs.

💡The study, conducted with the Guangdong Research Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower, highlights the widespread and continuous presence of these compounds in aquatic environments due to high usage rates. It also notes that many of the substances meet criteria for persistent, mobile and toxic pollutants, with some identified as priority risks to sensitive marine species. The researchers suggest improved wastewater treatment, better stormwater management and clearer disposal guidance as key measures to reduce environmental impact.


Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and the Singapore Maritime Institute have launched an updated Singapore Maritime Technology and Research Roadmap to advance innovation and strengthen capabilities across the maritime sector. The roadmap places greater emphasis on translating research into deployable solutions, with priorities including scaling digital technologies, enabling practical decarbonization, improving integration across port and shipping operations, and addressing constraints such as manpower and space limitations.

It outlines four focus areas: autonomous port operations, alternative energy delivery, smart ships, and integrated port services. The roadmap aims to align efforts across government, research institutions and industry to accelerate adoption and reduce implementation risks, while encouraging industry participation in co-development and pilot projects.

💡More than $100 million will be invested in research and development over the next five years, adding to over $500 million committed to maritime R&D in Singapore over the past two decades.

Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has awarded close to S$3.7 million in co-funding from its Maritime Innovation and Technology fund to six companies—Alicia Bots, C-Leanship, Neptune Robotics, Oceanis Robotics, RINAand SEAHI Robotics—to develop and trial in-water robotic hull inspection and cleaning solutions in Singapore’s port waters. The projects bring together technology providers, service operators, classification societies and shipowners to validate systems under real operating conditions, following a proposal exercise that drew 19 submissions from 36 companies across nine countries.

The initiative aims to improve efficiency and reduce emissions linked to marine biofouling, which increases drag and fuel consumption. Selected partners will focus on advancing automation, reliability and performance in complex and high-traffic port environments, addressing challenges such as operating in tight spaces, handling intricate hull structures and meeting environmental requirements.

💡Trials will be conducted in live port conditions to assess safety, cost-effectiveness and scalability, with development set to begin in the second half of 2026 over an 18-month period.

Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has signed a memorandum of understanding with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development to support maritime decarbonization and digitalization globally. The partnership combines UNCTAD’s trade mandate with Singapore’s experience as a port hub to promote adoption of alternative fuels and digital solutions across ports at different stages of development.

💡The agreement includes collaboration on knowledge sharing and best practices in areas such as sustainable finance and workforce development. It also covers capacity building and technical training for developing countries to strengthen maritime capabilities and improve port resilience.

Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and PSA Singapore have launched an expression of interest to invite proposals for autonomous inter-gateway container feeder vessel operations in the Port of Singapore. These vessels move containers between terminals such as Tuas and Pasir Panjang and are key to port operations, with the initiative aimed at improving efficiency, safety and reliability as traffic grows.

💡The exercise will assess the readiness and feasibility of autonomous systems, including the use of a remote operations center for real-time monitoring. Proposals must address areas such as navigation safety, vessel interaction, traffic management, cybersecurity and regulatory compliance, while outlining operational limits, risk controls and viable business models aligned with port needs.

Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has launched OCEANS-X, a maritime data and API exchange platform designed to enable secure system-to-system data sharing across the maritime ecosystem. The platform allows shipping companies and government agencies to exchange trusted data directly, supporting more integrated digital services, improved port operations and smoother trade flows.

The first use case includes digital port clearance, where shipping systems can transmit required data directly to MPA platforms instead of using portal-based submissions. OCEANS-X also supports electronic exchange of ship certificates with partner ports to reduce manual checks and paper-based processes.

💡The platform currently hosts more than 100 APIs and datasets and is intended to expand into additional services, including analytics and AI-enabled applications developed by industry, startups and research users.

Singapore

Neptune Robotics has announced a $12 million investment to expand its manufacturing and research and development operations in Singapore. The expansion follows a Series B funding round and is aimed at scaling its AI-powered robotic hull cleaning services for the maritime sector.

💡The facility will increase production capacity and support further development of the company’s computer vision and machine learning systems used in autonomous hull cleaning.

Space

Space activity is expanding through standardization, commercial investment, and new infrastructure aimed at communications resilience, education, and multi-mission satellite deployment.

Australia

Research from Swinburne University of Technology, supported by SmartSat CRC, has developed a resilient communication system designed to support emergency services during natural disasters when conventional networks fail.The system focuses on low-power, long-duration operation and is intended for use in remote and disaster-affected regions where connectivity is often lost due to events such as bushfires or flooding.

💡The technology combines a lightweight user terminal with a hybrid communications architecture that links local wireless networks to satellite backhaul. It uses software-defined radio techniques and compact data transmission methods to maintain messaging and basic voice communication under degraded conditions.

China

China has introduced its first commercial space standard system to regulate and guide the development of its growing private space sector. The framework, issued by the China National Space Administration and the State Administration for Market Regulation, was unveiled during Space Day events in Chengdu and is intended to standardise technical and governance requirements across rockets, satellites, launch sites and related services.

💡The system sets out a structured framework covering areas such as manufacturing, launch operations, tracking systems and application services, with more than 1,000 planned standards across multiple levels. Authorities said the initiative is aimed at improving coordination between public and commercial space actors and supporting more consistent development of China’s space industry as it expands.

China

A Beijing-based space startup has completed an early-stage funding round supported by venture capital and industrial investors, alongside securing large strategic credit lines from major Chinese banks. Orbital Chenguang’s financing mix includes participation from firms such as Haisong Capital and Cathay Capital, as well as backing from leading state-owned financial institutions, reflecting strong institutional interest in its development plans. The company is linked to a Beijing space technology institute supported by municipal authorities and operates within a broader industrial consortium focused on advanced aerospace systems.

💡The startup is developing a space-based computing infrastructure concept centered on satellite constellations designed for high-performance data processing in orbit. Its approach targets sun-synchronous orbital deployment to leverage continuous solar power and thermal conditions, with phased development planned from early technology validation to larger-scale orbital integration.


India

India is planning to set up dedicated space laboratories in universities and colleges to provide hands-on training in satellite systems, rocketry and mission design. The initiative, reviewed by Department of Space Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, is part of efforts to strengthen skills development as the country’s space sector expands and attracts growing private investment.

💡In the first phase, seven university-based labs will be established to support practical learning in space technologies and related engineering fields. The programme is coordinated with IN-SPACe, which oversees private sector participation in India’s space industry.

Japan

Japan’s Martian Moons eXploration mission, led by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, has arrived at the Tanegashima Space Center ahead of its planned launch later this year aboard the H3 rocket. The spacecraft will target Mars’ moon Phobos to collect and return surface samples as part of a multi-year planetary science mission.

💡The mission is expected to enter Mars orbit in 2027, conduct detailed surveys of Phobos and Deimos, and attempt a sample collection landing on Phobos in 2029 before returning material to Earth in 2031. The project aims to improve understanding of the origin of Mars’ moons and provide insight into the formation and evolution of the inner solar system.

Japan-New Zealand

Rocket Lab has completed a second dedicated launch for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, deploying eight small satellites from its Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand.

💡The mission supported Japan’s Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Program and included educational payloads, an ocean-monitoring satellite, and technology demonstration systems such as compact imaging and deployable antenna designs.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: Singapore Gulf Bank Launches Stablecoin Mint and Redeem Service; China, Indonesia and Azerbaijan Launch $1B ASEAN Investment Platform; Baskit Raises $4.4M Series A to Digitize Southeast Asia Distribution Networks; South Korea Launches AI Smart City Pilots Across Southeast Asia; POSCO Future M Invests $400M in Vietnam Battery Materials Plant; Gulf Edge and Kore.ai Partner to Scale Enterprise AI in Thailand; Foxconn Increases Vietnam Manufacturing Investment by $58.3M; and Earth Venture Backs $139M Quantum AI Infrastructure Round

Environmental Sustainability: China Expands EV Battery Recycling Standards to Strengthen Circular Economy; New Zealand Research Targets Mitochondrial Resilience in Aquaculture; Skye Renewables Secures $15M to Expand Solar Projects Across Southeast Asia; Endowus and CIP Expand Access to Institutional Clean Energy Investments; ADB Plans $6B Push to Deepen Southeast Asia Capital Markets by 2030; HDBank and London Stock Exchange Partner on Global Market Access; and Farmnet Secures $11.75M Loan to Scale Vietnam Agricultural Trade Financing

Aviation: Qantas Pilots Reject Pay Deal as Union Returns to Negotiations; Korean Air Deploys Digital Maintenance Platform at Engine Center; Teleport and Hashgraph Group Build Blockchain-Based Digital Customs System; Swisslog Automates Satair Singapore Facility with AutoStore Deployment; and Vietjet Signs Lease Agreement for Up to 10 COMAC C909 Aircraft

Advanced Air Mobility: AutoFlight Completes 2-Ton eVTOL Tea Logistics Trial in Guizhou; Sino Jet and Hainan Airports Form Low-Altitude Mobility Joint Venture; Sarla Aviation Expands Urban Air Mobility Partnerships Across India; KAIST Develops Air-Stable Solid-State Battery Breakthrough for Fast Charging; and LYTE Aviation Secures €500M SkyClinic eVTOL Medical Aircraft Orders

Marine: Seaspan Diversifies Into Dry Bulk Shipping With New Vessel Order; Port Nelson Expands Marine Maintenance Capacity With Major Facility Upgrade; AI and Robotics Transform Aquaculture Monitoring in New Zealand; Singapore Develops Real-Time Digital Twin for Port Operations; Yangzijiang Maritime Expands Fleet With Major VLCC Newbuild Programme; Taiwan Study Reveals Marine Conservation Gaps in Juvenile Fish Habitats; and Vietnam Approves $5B Can Gio Transshipment Port Project

Space: Canada and South Korea Strengthen Space Cooperation on Satellites and Earth Observation; China Builds Largest Composite Rocket Module for Reusable Launch Systems; Astroscale Plans Multi-Satellite Space Debris Inspection Mission; Japan Proposes Lunar Solar Power System With Luna Ring Concept; Thailand Expands Satellite-Based Wildfire Detection and Response Systems; and Vietnam Advances Nanosatellite Development Toward 2027 Launch

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Financing & Investments

Capital flows are increasingly converging on Southeast Asia’s digital infrastructure, AI systems, and advanced manufacturing base, reflecting a coordinated shift toward technology-enabled regional supply chains. Sovereign-backed platforms and strategic corporate investments are aligning around scalable, cross-border deployment of next-generation financial and industrial systems.

Bahrain-Singapore

Singapore Gulf Bank has introduced a service that allows corporate and high-net-worth clients to mint and redeem stablecoins directly through their bank accounts, enabling conversion between fiat currency and digital tokens. The offering is designed to support real-time settlement and reduce reliance on traditional correspondent banking channels. It is integrated into the bank’s proprietary SGB Net clearing system, which facilitates movement between blockchain-based assets and conventional financial infrastructure.

💡The bank is also temporarily covering transaction and gas fees for activity conducted on the Solana blockchain, alongside additional incentives tied to transaction volumes during an introductory period. The service initially supports USD Coin transactions above a specified minimum value and is expected to expand to additional stablecoins, including Tether, USDe, and Global Dollar.

China-Indonesia-Azerbaijan

China Investment Corporation, Indonesia Investment Authority, and the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan have formed a $1 billion private equity platform focused on investment opportunities across the China–ASEAN economic corridor. The initiative has reached an initial close of about $520 million and is structured as a jointly governed sovereign-led fund designed to support long-term capital deployment and cross-border investment flows between China and Southeast Asia. CGS International Securities acts as the general partner, providing operational and regional execution support across the platform.

💡The platform targets sectors linked to regional economic integration and supply chain shifts, including industrials, healthcare, consumer, business services, and technology. It is intended to channel institutional capital into companies positioned to benefit from growing trade links and investment activity between China and ASEAN markets.

Indonesia

Baskit, an Indonesia-based technology and financial services platform, has raised $4.4 million in a Series A funding round to support the digitization of offline distribution networks in Southeast Asia. The round was led by Cento Ventures, with participation from Kaya Founders, Analog Ventures, and Orvel Ventures, bringing the company’s total equity funding to $9.9 million. It has also secured a $3 million revolving credit facility from HSBC Innovation Banking.

💡The company plans to use the proceeds to expand its operations in Indonesia and enter the Philippines, its first market outside its home country. Baskit provides tools for managing distribution networks across wholesalers, distributors, and retailers, alongside embedded credit and payment services to improve working capital access.

South Korea-Southeast Asia

South Korea is set to conduct pilot deployments of AI-enabled smart city technologies across five Southeast Asian countries under its 2026 K-City Network program. The initiative is designed to test and demonstrate Korean-developed urban digital solutions in overseas environments while supporting the international expansion of domestic companies.

The selected projects include AI-based systems for water management and disaster response in Brunei, traffic optimization in Bacoor in the Philippines, and two transport-related pilots in Vietnam covering on-demand mobility in Ho Chi Minh City and smart intersection control in Can Tho. Additional deployments include a building safety management system in Thailand’s Surin province and an accident detection and congestion management system in Malaysia’s Penang.

💡The program aims to validate these technologies in real-world settings and support future commercial opportunities and international cooperation in smart city development.

South Korea-Vietnam

South Korea’s POSCO Future M plans to invest at least $400 million in Song Cong 2 Industrial Park in Vietnam’s Thai Nguyen province to develop a large-scale battery materials manufacturing facility. The project, supported through a land lease agreement with industrial park developer Viglacera, will serve as the company’s first overseas cathode materials production base.

💡The facility will occupy around 37 hectares within the industrial park and is expected to begin construction in the second half of 2026, with operations targeted for 2028. It is designed to produce up to 55,000 tons of battery materials annually for electric vehicle supply chains in markets including the United States, the European Union, and South Korea.

Thailand-USA
Gulf Edge Co., the digital infrastructure subsidiary of Gulf Development Public Company Limited, has entered into a partnership with Kore.ai to advance the development and deployment of artificial intelligence solutions in Thailand.

The collaboration will use Kore.ai’s agentic AI platform to build sector-specific applications for industries including telecommunications, banking, insurance, healthcare, and the public sector, with an emphasis on improving customer interaction, operational efficiency, and enterprise-scale AI adoption.

💡Gulf Edge will act as a strategic partner for Kore.ai’s platform and solutions, with support for go-to-market activities and product development. The initiative aligns with Gulf Edge’s ongoing investments in AI-related infrastructure such as data centers and cloud capabilities, aimed at supporting enterprise adoption in the country.

Taiwan-Vietnam

Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry, is increasing investment in its Vietnamese subsidiary Fushan Technology (Vietnam) by $58.3 million, according to a filing to the Taiwan Stock Exchange. The additional capital will be implemented through a Foxconn unit and brings the company’s total investment in the subsidiary to about $226 million while maintaining full ownership. The move is part of Foxconn’s broader strategy to expand and strengthen its manufacturing operations in Vietnam.

💡Fushan Technology (Vietnam), located in Bac Ninh province, manufactures and assembles electronic products including mobile phones, smart devices, printed circuit boards, and optical components. The facility also produces items such as gaming consoles and uncrewed aircraft systems.

Vietnam-USA

Earth Venture Capital, a Vietnam-based climate technology investor, has participated in Sygaldry Technologies’ combined seed and Series A financing round totaling $139 million. The funding round included a $34 million seed stage and a $105 million Series A, with participation from multiple global venture investors.

💡Sygaldry Technologies, based in the United States, is developing quantum-accelerated AI server systems intended to reduce the energy consumption and cost of training and operating large-scale artificial intelligence models. The company’s platform integrates multiple qubit types within a single architecture designed for compatibility with existing data center infrastructure.

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Environmental Sustainability

Environmental systems are increasingly being shaped by formalized regulation, biological innovation, and large-scale capital deployment, with sustainability advancing through both infrastructure investment and financial market integration.

China

China has added five new national standards for electric vehicle battery recycling, increasing the total to 22. The updated rules set technical requirements for the collection, dismantling, testing, and processing of retired batteries, with the aim of improving consistency and efficiency in material recovery across the industry.

Existing and newly adopted standards have enabled higher recovery rates for key metals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese, supporting more structured reuse of battery materials.

💡China is also forming a national committee to align recycling standards across the full battery lifecycle and participating in international standard-setting efforts, while tightening safety rules on the reuse of retired batteries in lower-grade applications and preparing for a rise in battery retirements in the coming years.

New Zealand

Researchers at the Cawthron Institute in Nelson are studying whether improving mitochondrial function could help New Zealand’s aquaculture species better cope with warming oceans and other climate-related stresses. The project, called Supercharging Mitochondrial Function, is examining how cellular energy systems influence growth, survival, and heat tolerance in key farmed species such as salmon, mussels, oysters, and snapper.

The work combines genetics, nutrition, and environmental testing to identify individuals with stronger metabolic performance under stress. Scientists will measure how mitochondria respond to factors like temperature, oxygen, and salinity, with the goal of linking cellular efficiency to real-world farm performance.

💡The findings could inform selective breeding, feed design, and management practices to improve resilience and productivity in aquaculture systems facing increasingly variable conditions.

Singapore

Skye Renewables Energy, a Singapore-based solar power developer, has obtained a $15 million financing facility from responsAbility Investments. The capital will be directed toward developing renewable energy projects in Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, covering both rooftop and onsite solar systems as well as larger grid-connected installations for corporate users.

💡The funding is intended to support expansion of the company’s clean energy portfolio across Southeast Asia. Skye Renewables, which is also backed by Idemitsu Kosan and British International Investment, focuses on delivering solar solutions for commercial and industrial clients in the region.

Singapore-Denmark-Hong Kong

Endowus, a Singapore-based wealth advisory and investment platform, has partnered with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) to broaden access to institutional renewable energy investment strategies for eligible investors in Singapore and Hong Kong. The collaboration will integrate CIP’s development-focused clean energy strategies into Endowus’ private markets offering, allowing access through both standalone allocations and diversified infrastructure portfolios.

💡The initiative comes amid rising global electricity demand driven by electrification, data center expansion, and artificial intelligence growth. It also reflects increasing investor interest in private infrastructure assets with long-term contracted revenue structures and lower correlation to public markets.

Southeast Asia

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) plans to mobilize up to $6 billion by 2030 to support the development of capital markets in Southeast Asia and strengthen the region’s resilience to external economic shocks. The financing will be directed through instruments aimed at infrastructure and development projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable transport, and affordable housing.

💡The initiative also includes policy and technical support for regulators to improve market frameworks, expand bond issuance, and deepen regional financial integration. ADB will work with ASEAN capital market authorities to enhance regulatory systems, market infrastructure, and investor participation, with the broader goal of increasing capital market activity and unlocking additional private investment across the region.

Vietnam-UK

HDBank has entered into a strategic partnership with the London Stock Exchange to support Vietnamese companies in accessing international capital markets. The agreement covers cooperation on fundraising, overseas listings, and investor engagement, with a focus on connecting domestic enterprises to global institutional investors and facilitating the issuance of financial instruments across borders.

💡The bank also plans to issue up to $300 million in international green bonds as part of its strategy to expand sustainable financing and diversify funding sources. The partnership aims to strengthen corporate governance and transparency among Vietnamese businesses while supporting broader efforts to integrate Vietnam further into global financial markets and improve access to long-term capital.

Vietnam-Switzerland

Farmnet, the Vietnam-based trading arm of agricultural supply chain company TechCoop, has secured a $11.75 million senior secured loan from Symbiotics, a Geneva-based impact investment firm. The financing is the first offshore institutional loan raised by a Vietnam-incorporated entity within the TechCoop group and forms part of the company’s broader funding strategy ahead of a planned equity raise.

💡Farmnet operates as a domestic agricultural commodities trader working with processors, cooperatives, and farming enterprises across Vietnam, handling products including cassava, coffee, cashew, durian, coconut, and fresh produce. The company plans to use the loan as working capital to support expanded trading activity across its network.

Aviation

Aviation operations are increasingly shaped by workforce cost pressures, digitized maintenance and logistics systems, and the adoption of alternative financing and aircraft supply chains to support network expansion and efficiency gains.

Australia

Long-haul pilots at Qantas have rejected a proposed enterprise agreement that would have delivered a 25% pay increase over four years. The deal, which covered about 1,700 pilots flying A330, A380, and Boeing 787 aircraft, was supported by the Australian and International Pilots’ Association (AIPA) but was voted down by roughly two-thirds of members.

AIPA said it will now review pilot feedback and return to negotiations, aiming to address concerns in a revised offer. While the airline described the outcome as disappointing, it said it remains committed to reaching a deal that improves pay and conditions while keeping its international operations competitive.

💡The dispute comes as pilots continue to raise concerns that the proposed increases may not keep pace with inflation and rising living costs.

South Korea

Ramco Systems has implemented its Aviation Suite at Korean Air’s engine maintenance center in South Korea, supporting the airline’s shift toward fully digital maintenance operations. The system connects key functions such as engine maintenance, finance, customer service, and billing, while also integrating with warehouse automation systems to improve coordination and data flow across operations.

💡The platform provides real-time visibility into maintenance performance, including capacity use, costs, revenue, and overall operational metrics. The system will also support Korean Air’s planned engine maintenance cluster scheduled for 2027, which is expected to become a major MRO hub in Asia.

Switzerland-Malaysia

The Hashgraph Group, a Switzerland-based Web3 and AI engineering firm, and Malaysia-based air logistics company Teleport have agreed to jointly develop a Digital Customs Documentation System to digitize and manage cross-border trade documentation. The system is being built as a proof of concept and will initially target e-commerce shipments in Southeast Asia, with the aim of improving efficiency and security in customs processing.

The platform is designed to address issues such as shipment misclassification, documentation errors, and multi-party disputes that contribute to delays in cross-border logistics. It will use distributed ledger technology on the Hedera network to create immutable shipping records, integrate with TradeTrust for standardized digital documents, and apply AI-based validation for customs classification.

💡Teleport plans to deploy the system on selected Malaysian routes and expand it across transport modes, while integrating it with its broader logistics network to support end-to-end shipment visibility.

Switzerland-Singapore

Swisslog has announced the deployment and commissioning of an AutoStore automation system for Satair at its Singapore facility, marking the aerospace parts distributor’s third global installation of the system. The project is part of a broader effort to standardize and automate logistics operations across Satair’s international network to improve efficiency, resilience, and scalability.

💡The system introduces high-density, goods-to-person storage automation that places most small and medium-sized parts within a compact warehouse footprint, enabling faster and more consistent order processing. It is designed to support continuous operations and improve handling speed and flexibility, particularly during demand peaks.

Vietnam-China

Vietjet has signed a financing agreement with SPDB Financial Leasing, a subsidiary of Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, for the lease of up to 10 COMAC C909 aircraft. The arrangement is structured as operating leases and is intended to support fleet expansion and diversify the airline’s financing sources. The agreement is expected to support Vietjet’s planned use of COMAC aircraft on selected Vietnam–China routes, contributing to expanded air connectivity between the two markets.

💡The airline has previously operated COMAC C909 aircraft on domestic routes serving Con Dao, where airport infrastructure limits operations for larger aircraft. Alongside the leasing arrangement, Vietjet has introduced several new routes between Vietnam and China as part of broader network expansion efforts, while also reporting growth in revenue and profit for the prior year.

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Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility is moving from concept to operational pilots, with early commercial use cases emerging in logistics, regional connectivity, and emergency services, supported by parallel breakthroughs in energy storage and infrastructure development.

China

AutoFlight has completed what it describes as China’s first 2-ton-class eVTOL trial dedicated to spring tea transport in Guizhou province. The test used its CarryAll V2000CG to move fresh tea between Anshun and Guiyang over a mountainous route of about 120 km in roughly 37 minutes, significantly reducing travel time compared with road transport.

💡The operation formed part of a combined logistics chain linking short-range aerial transport with high-speed rail, enabling same-day delivery of goods from western China to eastern cities. After the eVTOL segment, the shipment was transferred onto rail from Guiyang to Shanghai, covering nearly 2,000 km in total within a 24-hour window.

China

Sino Jet Group and Hainan Linghang Low-Altitude Industry, a subsidiary of Hainan Airports, have formed a joint venture to establish Hainan Low-Altitude Mobility Co., Ltd., aimed at developing low-altitude air transport services in China’s Hainan Free Trade Port.

The new company plans to leverage Hainan’s airport infrastructure and aviation support systems to develop services such as urban air shuttles, sightseeing flights, business transfers, and cross-island routes. It will coordinate operations across key destinations within the province and nearby regions, with a focus on integrating higher-altitude aviation with short-range low-altitude mobility to improve connectivity and reduce travel times.

💡Sino Jet previously placed a firm order for 50 AE200 eVTOL aircraft from Aerofugia.

India

Sarla Aviation has released several press statements, including a clarification following earlier reporting that IndiGo Ventures had invested through its venture arm. The company confirmed that IndiGo Ventures has made a minority investment, but withdrew its earlier public communication on the matter due to confusion, and clarified that IndiGo has no involvement in Sarla Aviation’s eVTOL initiatives.

In separate announcements, Sarla Aviation detailed a series of partnerships aimed at building out urban air mobility use cases in India. It has signed an agreement with Cochin International Airport to assess vertiport infrastructure in Kerala, including potential locations within or adjacent to the airport campus and integration of eVTOL operations into airport systems. The collaboration includes evaluating operational routes, phased deployment planning, and commercial vertiport development linked to passenger connectivity.

The company has also signed a medical mobility MoU with Aster DM Healthcare and Aeromed International Rescue Services to explore air-based patient transport, including hospital-to-hospital and emergency transfers, as well as aircraft configurations for critical care use.

💡Additional agreements include partnerships with OEC Green Developers to explore vertiport integration in hospitality and tourism projects, and multiple MoUs with aviation and transport operators such as IndiaOne Air, Global Vectra Helicorp, and Baramati Agro to examine regional connectivity, helicopter-to-eVTOL transition use cases, and applications in logistics, charter, and specialized transport services.

South Korea

Researchers at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), working with several Korean universities, have developed a new solid-state battery electrolyte design that remains stable in air while enabling faster charging. The breakthrough targets a long-standing issue in halide-based electrolytes, which typically degrade when exposed to moisture and therefore require costly controlled environments for production.

💡The team introduced an “oxygen anchoring” approach using tungsten to stabilize oxygen within the material’s structure. This improves air stability and creates smoother pathways for lithium ions, boosting conductivity to about 2.7 times higher than existing alternatives. The advance could support next-generation batteries for applications such as electric vehicles, robotics, and urban air mobility.

UK-India

LYTE Aviation has signed conditional purchase agreements with Vman Aviation Services IFSC for 10 SkyClinic aircraft, representing a combined order value of €500 million and including milestone-linked deposits. The aircraft are planned for deployment in India, adding to the company’s broader pipeline of pre-orders across its aviation platforms.

The SkyClinic is a hybrid hydrogen-electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft designed for emergency medical use in areas with limited infrastructure. It features onboard medical facilities such as surgical capability and patient accommodation, with integration of remote medical systems.

💡The aircraft uses a hydrogen-based propulsion system aimed at reducing emissions while supporting long-range operations, and forms part of LYTE Aviation’s wider development of advanced air mobility platforms for passenger, cargo, and medical applications.

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Marine

The marine sector is shifting toward large-scale capacity expansion and asset diversification, alongside rapid adoption of digital and AI-driven systems for port operations, aquaculture, and logistics, while sustainability pressures are increasingly influencing both infrastructure development and marine ecosystem management.

Canada-China

Seaspan Corporation is expanding beyond its traditional container shipping focus, placing its first order in the dry bulk and multipurpose vessel segment with four 65,200 dwt open-hatch ships. The vessels, to be built by China’s New Dayang Shipbuilding, are scheduled for delivery in 2029 and will feature gantry cranes and box-shaped holds designed for flexible cargo operations.

The new ships will be capable of carrying a mix of project cargo and breakbulk goods, marking a diversification step for Seaspan as it continues to expand its leasing portfolio beyond container vessels. The move follows its recent entry into car carriers and planned expansion into gas shipping, reflecting a broader strategy to build a multi-segment maritime leasing platform.

New Zealand

Port Nelson has opened a major new marine maintenance facility designed to expand its capacity to service larger commercial vessels and strengthen the Nelson–Tasman region’s role in New Zealand’s maritime sector. The Calwell Marine Maintenance and Transitional Facility includes a new hardstand area and a 550-tonne mobile boat hoist, enabling vessels up to 2,400 tonnes to be hauled out, repaired, and refitted more efficiently.

💡The upgrade is intended to reduce bottlenecks in vessel servicing by separating workloads between Port Nelson and smaller nearby facilities, improving turnaround times for the country’s growing fleet of larger ships. Supported by a mix of government, council, and port investment, the project is part of a broader infrastructure push aimed at expanding marine servicing capacity, supporting fisheries and aquaculture operations, and strengthening the region’s long-term maritime economy.

New Zealand

UWAI Robotics and Seaweave are developing artificial intelligence and underwater imaging tools that are changing how New Zealand’s aquaculture industry monitors fish and shellfish farms. Their systems convert underwater video and sensor data into real-time and historical insights, helping farmers track stock health, environmental conditions, and productivity without relying solely on manual inspections.

💡UWAI Robotics has built an AI-enabled underwater drone that scans mussel lines and analyses crop condition, including size distribution, density, and biofouling, allowing farmers to assess yields more accurately. Seaweave, meanwhile, is applying AI-powered imaging and sensing systems to monitor water quality, detect environmental changes, and identify marine species, with uses extending into fisheries management and breeding programmes.

Singapore

Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) has developed a real-time maritime digital twin of the Port of Singapore in collaboration with GovTech Singapore. The system integrates live data from vessels, port operations, drones, and environmental sensors, allowing authorities to simulate and test scenarios before committing physical infrastructure or capital investment.

💡The digital twin is already being used for multiple applications, including optimising the placement of electric charging infrastructure for harbour craft, detecting and modelling hazardous spills to improve emergency response, and integrating drone surveillance for real-time coastal monitoring. MPA is also exploring future applications using AI, such as improving vessel “parking” efficiency by modelling ship movement patterns, and plans to open the platform to selected industry users and developers in 2026 to support wider innovation across maritime services.

Singapore-China

Yangzijiang Maritime Development has expanded its exposure to crude oil shipping with a major newbuilding programme centred on very large crude carriers (VLCCs). The Singapore-listed shipowner has ordered eight 319,000 dwt VLCCs from a Chinese shipyard, with deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2030.

The vessels are designed to meet the latest efficiency and emissions standards, incorporating fuel-optimised hulls, electronically controlled engines, and energy-saving technologies aligned with IMO Phase 3 requirements. All eight ships will be equipped with exhaust gas scrubbers, allowing operational flexibility between fuel types and helping manage bunker cost volatility.

💡Yangzijiang Maritime is also divesting four medium-range tankers, a strategy aimed at supporting near-term earnings while continuing to reposition its portfolio across multiple shipping segments.

Taiwan

A new study published in Pacific Conservation Biology has found that juvenile reef fish rely heavily on mixed coral–algal habitats that are not fully covered by current marine protection zones in Taiwan, raising concerns about gaps in conservation policy.Researchers led by Wen Guo-zhang at Tunghai University, working with the Fisheries Research Institute, tracked grouper, snapper, and parrotfish around Penghu County and found that young fish cluster in mixed reef environments before migrating to coral reefs as adults.

💡The study suggests that protecting only mature reef habitats may overlook critical nursery areas, and calls for conservation zones that cover the full life cycle of key marine species to better support long-term fisheries sustainability.

Vietnam

A consortium led by Vietnam Maritime Corporation and MSC’s Terminal Investment Limited (TiL), alongside Saigon Port, has received approval to develop Vietnam’s planned Can Gio International Transshipment Port in Ho Chi Minh City. The project is expected to cost around $5 billion and is designed to significantly expand the country’s container handling capacity.

💡The port will cover about 571 hectares and be developed in phases, starting with facilities capable of handling ultra-large container ships. Capacity is projected to reach 4.8 million TEU by 2030 and potentially expand to nearly 17 million TEU by 2047.

Space

Space development is increasingly focused on scaling reusable launch capabilities, expanding satellite infrastructure, and advancing in-orbit operations, with growing emphasis on inspection, environmental monitoring, and energy applications, supported by deeper international cooperation and early-stage commercialization across the sector.

Canada-South Korea

The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and South Korea’s Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to build a strategic industrial alliance covering satellite communications, Earth observation, space science, navigation systems, and space situational awareness.

The agreement aims to link Canada’s planned Low Earth Orbit communications and robotics capabilities with South Korea’s satellite manufacturing and ground infrastructure, while also encouraging joint projects and private-sector partnerships.

💡It builds on recent commercial ties between Canadian firms such as MDA Space and Telesat and South Korea’s Hanwha Systems, and supports broader cooperation in launch services, scientific missions, and emerging space infrastructure initiatives.

China

China’s China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) has completed production of a 5-meter-diameter composite rocket module, marking the largest composite structural section built in the country for a reusable launch vehicle. The component is intended for use in a national space program focused on reusable rocket development.

💡The module is made of more than 60% composite materials and features lightweight structural panels designed to withstand axial loads of up to 1,000 metric tons, along with adaptive interface systems for integration. CALT completed the design-to-production process in about seven months, highlighting advances in large-scale composite manufacturing techniques.

Japan

Astroscale has announced a 2027 mission called ISSA-J1 (In-situ Space Situational Awareness-Japan 1) to inspect multiple defunct satellites in different orbits. The mission builds on its earlier ADRAS-J demonstration and will be the first of its kind to visit more than one inactive spacecraft in a single flight.

💡The 650 kg spacecraft will use rendezvous and proximity operations to inspect two retired Japanese Earth-observation satellites: ALOS (launched 2006, inactive since 2011) and ADEOS-II (launched 2002, mission ended after early failure). ISSA-J1 will gradually approach each target, conduct detailed imaging and analysis, then move between orbits to repeat the process, demonstrating in-orbit inspection capabilities that could support future satellite servicing and debris assessment.


Japan

Shimizu Corporation, a Japanese construction company, has proposed a concept called Luna Ring that envisions generating solar energy on the Moon and transmitting it to Earth. The system involves installing a wide belt of solar panels around the Moon’s equator to continuously capture sunlight and convert it into energy for transmission via microwave or laser beams.

💡The concept is intended to provide a constant source of clean energy unaffected by weather or day-night cycles on Earth. Energy collected on the lunar surface would be sent to Earth-based receiving stations for conversion into electricity and distribution through power grids. The proposal also outlines the use of lunar resources and robotic systems for construction and maintenance, positioning the project as a long-term vision for large-scale renewable energy supply.

Thailand

Thailand is increasingly relying on satellite technology to detect and respond to wildfires, as hotspot activity surges across northern and western regions. According to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), thousands of hotspots have been identified through satellite monitoring, with many concentrated in conservation and reserved forest areas. In one recent case at Sri Lanna National Park in Chiang Mai, satellite alerts helped authorities locate a remote fire zone and deploy ground teams to contain the blaze despite difficult terrain.

Officials say the system allows faster and more targeted firefighting, supporting efforts to reduce environmental damage and manage worsening PM2.5 air pollution. Thailand’s satellite network now provides frequent hotspot updates and generates heat maps that help agencies track fire patterns and prioritize response.

💡The data has become central to national wildfire management, especially during the dry season when agricultural burning, dry forest fuel, and rising temperatures significantly increase fire risk.

Vietnam

VinSpace, the aerospace subsidiary of Vietnam’s Vingroup, is developing nanosatellite technologies with plans to deploy its first satellites into orbit by 2027. The company is focused on building domestically developed nanosatellite constellations for applications such as telecommunications and remote sensing, as part of broader efforts to establish a local space technology sector.

💡The company is investing in manufacturing capabilities and supporting infrastructure, including cleanroom facilities, testing systems, and ground station networks. It is also working with domestic and international partners to develop an integrated technical and commercial ecosystem aimed at enabling future satellite-based services.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: ASEAN Regional Energy Grid Preparation Fund Launched; Cambodia Telecom Expansion Snags $50M Financing; China–Singapore Autonomous Mobility Service Moves Toward Public Rollout; China–Vietnam Cross-Language AI Voice Tech Partnership Expands Ecosystem Integration; India AI Infrastructure Startup Raises $22M Series A for GPU Cloud Expansion; Malaysia SME Financing Program Targets Digital and Green Upgrades; US–Singapore Multi-Billion Data Center Expansion Targets AI Infrastructure Growth; and Vietnam Crypto Exchange Secures Investment for Regulatory Pilot

Environmental Sustainability: China–Kazakhstan Hydrogen Energy Innovation Center Launched; Indonesia Waste-to-Energy Holding PT Daya Energi Bersih Nusantara Established; Indonesia Recovers $720M in State Assets and Reclaims Forest Land; Japan Researchers Validate Plastic-Degrading Additive Technology; and Singapore Firms Expand Sustainability Investment Despite Funding Constraints

Aviation: Digital Identity Trials Enable Contactless Air Travel; Australia Aviation Operator Hit by Ransomware Data Breach Claim; India Airport Launches In-Terminal Quick Commerce Service; Air New Zealand Trials Biometric Digital Travel ID; Japan Airlines Retires Carbon Credits Under CORSIA; Japan Airlines and ANA Raise Fuel Surcharges; and Singapore Tightens In-Flight Power Bank Rules

Advanced Air Mobility: China–Kazakhstan Urban Air Mobility Launch Plan; Japan eVTOL Commercial Timeline Shifted to 2027–2028; Japan Drone “Sky Path” Network Expands for Grid Inspection; South Korea–Thailand UAV Public Safety System Deal; and US–China Archer–Joby Aviation Patent Dispute Review

Marine: India Offshore Platform Fire Incident at Mumbai High; India Orders Ammonia Dual-Fuel Bulk Carriers; Malaysia Secures Offshore Support Vessel Charters; Pakistan VLCC “Mali” Scrapped After Dark Fleet Activity; Singapore–South Korea Hafnia Orders 8 MR Tankers; South Korea Introduces Split-Shipyard Construction Method; and UK–Timor-Leste Offshore Drilling Coordination Agreement

Space: China TL 3 Heavy-Lift Rocket Maiden Flight Failure; Japan Funds Astroscale In-Orbit Refueling Program; Japan Astroscale Satellite Inspection Mission (ISSA-J1) Planned; Japan Develops High-Resolution X-Ray Space Telescope; and Artemis II Lunar Flyby Mission Completed

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Financing & Investments

Financing is clustering around foundational digital, energy, and AI infrastructure, with strong emphasis on scaling readiness through telecom upgrades, compute capacity, and cross-border connectivity. Public-backed capital and strategic partnerships continue to de-risk large systems buildouts while accelerating adoption of AI, automation, and regulated digital finance.

ASEAN

Asian Development Bank has launched a $25 million multi-partner fund to support early-stage development work for cross-border energy and transmission projects across ASEAN. The facility, called the Regional Connectivity Fund for Energy in Southeast Asia, is designed to finance project preparation for initiatives tied to the ASEAN Power Grid, including feasibility studies, engineering design, financial structuring, safeguards assessments, and regulatory support.

💡The fund is backed by contributions from multiple donor governments and will be managed in coordination with the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund and regional partners. It aims to improve project readiness and bankability for large-scale regional electricity interconnection, supporting long-term efforts to integrate power systems across Southeast Asia and expand access to reliable, lower-cost and renewable energy sources as regional electricity demand rises significantly toward mid-century.


Cambodia

Maybank Cambodia has provided a $50 million financing facility to Smart Axiata to support expansion of Cambodia’s digital and telecom infrastructure, including nationwide 5G rollout.

💡The funding is intended to strengthen connectivity systems that underpin digital services across education, financial transactions, and business operations, particularly for SMEs adopting ICT tools to improve productivity and reach.

China-Singapore

Pony.ai has partnered with ComfortDelGro to launch an autonomous mobility service in Singapore, following regulatory approval for by-invite rides ahead of broader public rollout.

💡The service operates on a 12-kilometre route in Punggol, linking residential areas with key amenities and transport nodes including Punggol Coast MRT station and nearby commercial centres, with journey times of about 55 minutes and potential time savings versus existing public transport connections.

China-Vietnam

Vietnam’s telecommunications firm Viettel Telecom has entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with China-based AI company iFLYTEK to develop voice artificial intelligence technologies tailored to the Vietnamese market. The collaboration centers on building Vietnamese-language speech systems such as speech-to-text and text-to-speech, with AI models adapted to tonal features, regional accents, and natural speech patterns, while ensuring deployment on Viettel’s infrastructure to support data security and sovereignty.

The partnership also covers integration of AI capabilities into hardware and consumer devices across Viettel’s ecosystem, including smartphones, IoT products, smart speakers, and telecom systems, with optimization for low-resource environments using edge computing.

💡Additional areas include expansion into natural language processing, sentiment analysis, real-time translation, and AI-driven customer service applications such as virtual call centers, alongside joint research, product co-development, and broader efforts to accelerate AI deployment in Vietnam.

India

Nava, an India-based cloud infrastructure firm focused on GPU compute and AI data centers, has raised $22 million in a Series A round led by Greenoaks Capital with participation from RTP Global and Unicorn India Ventures. The company, formerly known as Kluisz, is building an AI-optimized cloud platform that combines GPU infrastructure, AI-focused data centers, and software layers for orchestration and deployment across Asia-Pacific.

💡The firm will use the funding to expand its AI compute platform, scale operations across the region, and hire senior technical and operational talent in areas such as data center design and GPU engineering.


Malaysia

Malaysia’s Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development is deploying up to MYR5 billion ($1.3 billion) in concessional financing to help SMEs expand and shift into higher-value segments. Loans priced at three to five percent will be delivered via licensed and development financial institutions, including Bank Rakyat and SME Bank, to fund upgrades in technology, green transition efforts, automation, digital adoption, and tourism-linked activities.

💡The initiative sits within the PowerUp10K campaign, which aims to channel up to MYR15 billion overall to 10,000 businesses. It also earmarks at least MYR100 million for training up to 100,000 entrepreneurs, with targets to push SME value-added output above MYR750 billion and support 100 firms in reaching MYR100 million in revenue, while approvals have reached about MYR2 billion so far.

US-Singapore

Digital Realty has set a target of nearly S$7 billion ($5.49 billion) in total investment in Singapore to expand its data center footprint and strengthen its role in AI infrastructure across Asia Pacific. The plan includes more than S$4.3 billion ($3.37 billion) in new developments, building on existing assets, to support rising demand for AI and high-performance computing workloads in the region.

The company is also expanding its operational and innovation ecosystem in Singapore, including workforce growth to around 400 employees by 2030, the relocation and expansion of its regional office, and the development of a Global Command Center and an upcoming innovation lab for testing AI and hybrid cloud systems.


Vietnam

Vietnam Prosperity Crypto Asset Exchange has secured investment commitments from OKX Ventures and HashKey Capital to help meet the VND10 trillion ($380 million) capital requirement to join Vietnam’s pilot for regulated crypto trading. The firms will join as strategic partners alongside founding shareholders VPBank Securities and LynkiD, with capital injection expected in April to support entry into the government-backed program.

💡The tie-up combines domestic financial and technology capacity with international crypto sector experience, covering infrastructure, security, compliance, risk management, and liquidity connectivity aligned with regulatory standards. Vietnam Prosperity Crypto Asset Exchange, initially capitalized at VND25 billion, is preparing to scale under Vietnam’s five-year pilot for crypto exchanges.

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Environmental Sustainability

Hydrogen energy development is advancing through cross-border research cooperation, while Indonesia is consolidating waste-to-energy systems and strengthening state asset recovery and land governance. Japan’s findings support new approaches to plastic degradation, and Singapore firms are increasing sustainability investment despite ongoing financing constraints.

China-Kazakhstan

China and Kazakhstan have launched the China–Kazakhstan Hydrogen Energy Technology Innovation Center at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University in Almaty to advance cooperation in hydrogen energy development and low-carbon technology. The center is intended to support applied research, engineering training, and technology deployment aimed at building a hydrogen-based energy industry aligned with Kazakhstan’s decarbonization strategy.

💡The initiative is backed by collaboration between Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Energy China International Corporation through a trilateral framework covering joint research, technology transfer, academic exchange, and pilot projects. The partnership focuses on accelerating commercialization of hydrogen technologies and integrating them into industrial applications as Kazakhstan develops its clean energy and renewable capacity.


Indonesia

Danantara Indonesia has established PT Daya Energi Bersih Nusantara as a centralized holding entity to oversee waste-to-energy and waste-to-electricity projects across Indonesia. The structure consolidates investment, development, and operational activities for these projects, with subsidiary project companies formed as joint entities between PT Denera and selected consortium partners.

💡The framework is designed to streamline project execution, improve governance, and attract domestic and international participation in integrated waste management and renewable energy initiatives.

Indonesia

The Attorney General’s Office of Indonesia has completed a major phase of state asset recovery, returning Rp11.42 trillion (about $720 million) to the government through a mix of forestry fines, tax recoveries, corruption-related proceeds, and environmental penalties. The recovery also includes enforcement actions by the Forest Area Control Task Force and contributions from state-linked entities and tax compliance measures.

💡In parallel, authorities transferred control of 254,780 hectares of reclaimed forest land to the Ministry of Forestry of Indonesia, covering protected and production forest zones in multiple regions. The reclaimed areas are slated for ecological restoration and stricter governance to prevent illegal use, as part of broader efforts to strengthen natural resource management and recover state assets.

Japan

Researchers at Keio University have identified bacteria capable of breaking down plastics treated with additive technology developed by P-Life Japan Inc., providing scientific support for the company’s approach to improving the environmental degradability of conventional plastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. The research mapped microbial pathways involved in the breakdown process, reinforcing evidence that treated plastics can be bioassimilated under natural environmental conditions.

The technology works by integrating an additive into standard plastic manufacturing processes without requiring changes to production systems, allowing existing materials to interact with microbial activity after use.

💡The findings strengthen the company’s positioning of its approach as a material-level method for reducing long-term plastic accumulation, with applications evaluated across packaging, automotive, agriculture, and consumer goods sectors as industries respond to tightening environmental standards and sustainability requirements.

Singapore

Singapore-based firms are widely embedding sustainability into strategy, with most viewing it as a commercial opportunity and the majority already treating it as a core business focus, according to HSBC’s Sustainability Pulse Survey. A large share of companies have already implemented transition plans, and Singapore stands out regionally for high levels of climate-related capital allocation, with a significantly higher proportion of firms directing more than 10 percent of CapEx toward sustainability compared with the broader Asia-Pacific average.

💡Despite strong adoption, funding constraints remain the main bottleneck to further progress, with companies citing budget limits, high costs, and financing access as key challenges. The survey also found that most businesses plan to accelerate sustainability efforts over the next few years, while investors increasingly favor firms with credible transition strategies, reinforcing that access to capital and execution capacity will be critical factors shaping how quickly sustainability ambitions translate into scaled outcomes.

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Aviation

Aviation is moving towards digitizing passenger processing through biometric identity systems while also facing rising cybersecurity risks and stricter onboard safety regulation. At the same time, the sector is under cost pressure from fuel volatility and accelerating environmental compliance, with airlines increasingly using carbon markets and surcharges to manage emissions and operating expenses.

Asia-Pacific & Europe

The International Air Transport Association has confirmed that fully contactless international air travel is now technically achievable following successful digital identity trials conducted across Europe and Asia-Pacific. The tests showed that passengers can complete end-to-end journeys using biometric verification and digital identity credentials stored in mobile wallets, reducing or eliminating the need for repeated presentation of passports and boarding passes.

The trials, carried out with airlines, airports, governments, and technology providers, demonstrated interoperability between multiple digital identity systems, including mobile wallet platforms and national digital ID schemes.

💡Results indicated that a single verified digital identity can be reused across different stages of travel—booking, check-in, security, boarding, and transfer—while maintaining security and regulatory compliance, though broader adoption will depend on government frameworks enabling standardized acceptance of digital travel credentials.

Australia

The ransomware group Anubis has claimed responsibility for a cyber incident involving Western Australian operator Shine Aviation, alleging it accessed 57GB of data containing tens of thousands of files. The group claims the material includes employee credentials, access card scans, and aircraft-related documentation such as airworthiness and registration records.

💡The attackers also say the data set includes internal system login details and operational information used in aviation and flight operations, though the authenticity of the leaked material has not been independently verified. The incident highlights ongoing cybersecurity risks facing regional aviation and fly-in fly-out operators, particularly around the protection of sensitive operational, maintenance, and identity-related data.

India

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has introduced India’s first in-terminal quick commerce service through a partnership with Blinkit, enabling passengers to place app-based orders and receive deliveries directly within the airport terminal. The service operates in Terminal 2 domestic departures and covers locations such as boarding gates, lounges, food courts, and selected retail zones, with fulfillment handled by on-ground staff in line with airport security requirements.

💡The offering includes travel essentials such as snacks, electronics, books, personal care items, baby products, and permitted beverages sourced from approved in-terminal inventory.



Japan

Japan Airlines has become the first commercial carrier to complete a large-scale retirement of Gold Standard carbon credits for Phase 1 compliance under the CORSIA framework. A total of 180,000 Eligible Emissions Units were retired via Shell on behalf of the airline, with credits sourced from certified clean cooking projects in Malawi and Tanzania.

💡The credits are linked to programs that distribute more efficient household cookstoves, aimed at reducing fuel use, lowering emissions, and improving air quality while easing pressure on forests. The transactions signal early-stage scaling of CORSIA compliance activity across the aviation sector, with additional retirements expected as airlines prepare for upcoming obligations tied to international emissions reduction requirements.

Japan

All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines are set to significantly increase international fuel surcharges from June, reflecting rising aviation fuel costs driven by higher crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions affecting supply. The surcharge increases will be applied on top of base fares and vary by route, with long-haul flights to Europe and North America seeing the steepest rises.

💡For services operated by All Nippon Airways, surcharges on Europe and North America routes are projected to reach 55,000 yen, while Japan Airlines is expected to set comparable long-haul surcharges at 50,000 yen. Smaller but still notable increases are planned for routes to China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Russia, with airlines also considering broader changes to surcharge systems as fuel price volatility continues to impact operating costs.

New Zealand

Air New Zealand has trialled a digital identity system aimed at reducing repeated passport checks and streamlining international travel. In a pilot on return flights between Auckland and Hong Kong, passengers used a digital ID integrated into the airline app to store passport data, complete online check-in, and pass through airport touchpoints using biometric verification instead of repeatedly presenting physical documents.

💡The system links encrypted identity data with facial recognition at selected checkpoints and integrates with New Zealand’s traveller declaration process to reduce manual form completion. The airline said the technology is designed to improve both convenience and security through consent-based data sharing, and is exploring expanded trials with government agencies and international partners as part of broader efforts to enable more seamless, biometrics-driven travel processes.

Singapore

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore has introduced new safety rules restricting power bank use on flights departing Singapore to reduce onboard fire risks linked to lithium battery overheating. From mid-April 2026, passengers will be limited to carrying up to two power banks per person, while charging power banks or using them to charge devices during flights will be prohibited.

💡The updated measures align with revised safety guidance from the International Civil Aviation Organization and build on existing rules banning power banks in checked baggage and requiring safe handling in carry-on luggage.

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Advanced Air Mobility

Urban air mobility is moving from planning into structured regional deployment, with infrastructure buildouts and regulatory timelines becoming clearer. Alongside this, governments are expanding drone use for infrastructure monitoring and public safety, while intellectual property disputes highlight growing competition in electric aviation development.

China-Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is preparing to launch Central Asia’s first urban air mobility system, with planned eVTOL air taxi operations linking Alatau and Almaty and extending to nearby cities and tourist hubs. Test flights involving aircraft from China’s AutoFlight are expected to take place in 2026, using cargo and firefighting models capable of high-speed, medium-range flight to demonstrate operational readiness ahead of passenger services.

The project includes development of a regional network of vertiports and supporting infrastructure led by Alatau Advance Air Group in partnership with international aviation infrastructure firms. Planned routes are expected to significantly reduce travel times between key urban and tourism zones, while

💡Kazakhstan is also considering additional eVTOL procurement from companies including Joby Aviation as part of a broader effort to establish a regulated testing and deployment environment for advanced aerial mobility systems.

Japan

Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has revised its advanced air mobility roadmap, shifting the expected start of commercial eVTOL passenger services to 2027–2028. Demonstration flights held at the Osaka World Expo are not considered commercial operations, with the roadmap outlining a staged rollout from early services in selected regions to more advanced autonomous flight systems and integrated urban air mobility networks in the 2030s and beyond.

Regional plans in Kansai, including work led by the Kansai Economic Federation and operators such as SkyDrive, aim to build an initial network of around 100 aircraft operating within an 80-kilometer radius of Osaka Bay by 2035. Infrastructure hubs such as the Osakako vertiport are intended to anchor planned “Diamond Routes” linking cities across the region, though certification progress, infrastructure readiness, and operational approvals remain key factors determining the timing of full commercial deployment.

Japan

Japan is developing government-approved drone “sky paths” above power transmission corridors to enable safer and more efficient infrastructure inspection, particularly in mountainous regions. The initiative is being advanced by utilities and technology firms to modernize inspection workflows and address labor shortages, with early routes already in use for patrolling and checking transmission and distribution assets. Expansion plans target a nationwide network of about 40,000 kilometers by fiscal 2035, with future applications also expected in disaster response and logistics.

💡The system is being developed through Grid Sky Way LLP with participation from power utilities and firms including NTT Data Group and Hitachi Ltd. Pilot operations include a 150-kilometer corridor in Chichibu, where drones are used to inspect power lines more quickly and safely than manual methods, while additional routes are being explored for river monitoring and broader infrastructure surveillance across Japan.

South Korea-Thailand

Airbility has signed a four-party memorandum of understanding with Thailand’s NT iBuzz, SmartOkO Thailand, and KILSA Global to deploy integrated UAV systems for public safety and border security in Thailand. The collaboration combines eVTOL aerial platforms, secure communications infrastructure, and AI-based video analytics into a unified operational system designed for coordinated aerial monitoring and data processing.

💡The joint initiative covers development and deployment of UAV operations across Thailand, with integration of real-time communications, automated aerial surveillance analytics, and cross-border coordination capabilities. Target applications include border surveillance, law enforcement support, disaster response, and monitoring of critical infrastructure, supported by pilot projects and phased rollout of mission-based drone services nationwide.

US-China

The U.S. International Trade Commission has opened an investigation into claims by Archer Aviation that rival Joby Aviation improperly imported electric aircraft power system components from China that allegedly infringe Archer patents. The case falls under a Section 337 unfair trade inquiry and covers electric aircraft systems and related components.

💡The investigation, which is still at an early stage, will examine whether the imports violate intellectual property rights and whether exclusion or cease-and-desist orders should be imposed. An administrative law judge will hear the case and make an initial determination before the commission issues a final ruling, with no finding on the merits yet established.

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Marine

Marine activity is being shaped by fleet modernization and alternative fuel adoption, alongside strong offshore demand and new shipbuilding efficiency strategies. At the same time, regulatory and geopolitical pressures continue to influence tanker operations and vessel lifecycle outcomes.

India

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation reported a fire on its offshore SHP platform at the Mumbai High field, causing minor injuries to several workers. Emergency systems were activated and the incident was brought under control before it could spread further, with operations subsequently returning to normal levels.

💡The affected platform is part of the Mumbai High offshore complex, a key production hub for India’s domestic oil output. The cause of the incident has not been disclosed, and an internal investigation is underway to determine what triggered the fire and assess any broader operational impact.

India

India has secured its first contract for ammonia dual-fuel bulk carriers, with Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limitedset to construct four large 92,500 dwt vessels for Energy ONE Limited at its Pipavav facility. The ships will be equipped with ammonia-ready propulsion systems developed by KMS-EMEC and certified by DNV, placing them among the biggest commercial vessels ordered in India to date.

💡Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2029, with each vessel arriving in stages over a multi-year period. The project is tied to a wider investment platform focused on zero-emission shipping, reflecting early-stage efforts to commercialize ammonia as a marine fuel while positioning Indian shipbuilding to participate in next-generation low-carbon vessel construction.

Malaysia

Nam Cheong has secured offshore support vessel charter contracts worth up to RM102.5 million ($25.8 million), covering one anchor-handling tug supply vessel and one maintenance work vessel. The charters run for up to two years starting in 2026, with optional extensions, and will support offshore oil and gas operations in Southeast Asia.

💡One vessel has been chartered to COOEC, while the second is deployed to a regional independent oil producer. The deals increase Nam Cheong’s long-term charter coverage as it continues to expand contracted utilization across its fleet, supported by strong offshore activity in the region and tight supply of offshore support vessels.


Pakistan

A 300,000 dwt very large crude carrier, the Mali, is reported to be idle off Karachi under the Aruba flag after being listed for scrapping. The 2001-built vessel has previously been linked to sanctions-related activity and operated under the earlier name Ceres I, reflecting characteristics associated with so-called “dark fleet” shipping.

💡As Ceres I, the tanker was involved in a major collision in 2024 with the Singapore-flagged product tanker Hafnia Nilenear the eastern approaches to Singapore. The incident resulted in a large fire affecting both vessels, one fatality, and serious injuries, and has since been followed by the vessel’s reported removal from commercial service and transition toward recycling.


Singapore-South Korea

Hafnia, headquartered in Singapore, has ordered eight medium-range (MR) product tankers from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in a deal valued at about $405 million. The vessels are scheduled for delivery between the third quarter of 2028 and the second quarter of 2029 and are intended to expand the company’s fuel-efficient MR fleet.

💡The newbuild program supports a broader fleet renewal strategy in which Hafnia is replacing older vessels with more efficient tonnage to improve operating performance and earnings stability. The company, backed by BW Group, currently operates a fleet spanning multiple tanker segments and continues to modernize capacity through both disposals and newbuild orders.

South Korea

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has introduced a new vessel construction method that splits shipbuilding across two separate yards, marking a shift beyond traditional block outsourcing. Under this “half-ship” approach, entire vessels are assembled by joining large forward and aft hull sections built at different facilities before final outfitting is completed at a main yard.

The model was demonstrated with a 157,000 dwt Suezmax tanker assembled at the company’s Ulsan yard, combining a bow section built by subcontractor HSG Sungdong Shipbuilding with a stern section constructed in-house.

💡The strategy is designed to increase effective production capacity amid a record order backlog by optimizing dock usage, allowing parallel construction of multiple ships without expanding physical yard space, while other South Korean shipbuilders are also adopting varying outsourcing approaches to manage similar capacity constraints.

UK-Timor Leste

Sunda Energy has signed a letter of intent with Finder Energy to coordinate drilling plans offshore Timor-Leste, with the two companies aiming to jointly secure a semi-submersible rig and align services for upcoming exploration and appraisal campaigns. The collaboration also involves the state-linked partner Timor Gap, and is intended to improve rig availability and cost efficiency by combining multiple drilling programs into a longer, shared campaign.

💡The planned arrangement links Sunda’s Chuditch-2 appraisal well with Finder’s Kuda Tasi and Jahal field developments, extending total rig utilisation and making the programme more attractive to contractors. Drilling is now targeted for 2027, with engineering adjustments required due to the use of a deepwater-capable semi-submersible unit, while both parties continue early-stage coordination on logistics, scheduling, and regulatory extensions for their production sharing arrangements.

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Space

Space activity spans both setbacks and milestones, with commercial launch failures contrasting with advances in satellite servicing, deep-space missions, and high-resolution observation technology. Government-backed lunar exploration and orbital infrastructure programs continue to anchor long-term development momentum in the sector.

China

The maiden flight of the TL 3 heavy-lift liquid rocket developed by Beijing-based Space Pioneer ended in failure after the vehicle experienced an anomaly before reaching its intended orbital altitude and deploying its payload. The rocket launched successfully from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, but its flight deviated from planned parameters shortly after liftoff, prompting an investigation into its core systems.

💡The TL 3 is the company’s largest liquid-propellant rocket to date, designed to validate propulsion, control, and structural performance under full launch conditions as part of China’s broader push to expand commercial space capabilities. The incident follows earlier milestones by Space Pioneer in developing private orbital launch systems, and the company says it will analyze the failure before continuing further testing and development efforts.

Japan

Astroscale’s Japanese subsidiary has secured ¥1.25 billion in funding from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency under its Space Strategy Fund to advance in-orbit refueling technology. The two-year allocation is part of a broader four-year program focused on enabling electric propellant transfer services in geostationary orbit, a capability seen as important for extending satellite lifespans and improving orbital flexibility.

💡The project runs through 2028, with total support capped at ¥1.5 billion depending on progress reviews. While the near-term financial impact is expected to be limited, Astroscale anticipates the program will begin contributing to earnings from fiscal 2027 as development advances, reinforcing its expansion into on-orbit servicing and space sustainability technologies.

Japan

Astroscale Japan has outlined its ISSA-J1 mission, scheduled for 2027, which will demonstrate commercial capability to inspect multiple defunct satellites in orbit during a single flight. The spacecraft will visit two retired Japanese Earth-observation satellites, ALOS (“Daichi”) and ADEOS-II (“Midori-II”), both launched in the early 2000s and now inactive in low Earth orbit.

💡The mission will see ISSA-J1 carefully approach each satellite in sequence, starting from a safe distance before moving closer to capture detailed imagery and data on their current condition. After completing the first inspection, the spacecraft will change orbits to reach the second target, showcasing a new level of orbital mobility and supporting broader efforts in space situational awareness and satellite servicing.

Japan

Scientists in Japan have developed a highly precise X-ray telescope capable of distinguishing objects just a few millimetres wide from distances of up to a kilometre, marking a major advance in space imaging technology. The system combines ultra-precise mirror fabrication with a newly developed ground-based testing method that simulates starlight conditions to verify performance before launch on NASA-Japan FOXSI sounding rocket missions.

💡The breakthrough addresses long-standing challenges in X-ray astronomy, where observations must be conducted in space because Earth’s atmosphere blocks X-rays from reaching the surface. Built using nanometre-level mirror engineering techniques originally developed at SPring-8, the telescope successfully demonstrated its capability during FOXSI-4 and is set for further refinement in upcoming flights. Researchers say the work could pave the way for compact, high-resolution X-ray instruments on future small satellites.


USA-Canada

NASA’s Artemis II mission has returned its crew safely to Earth after completing the first human lunar flyby in more than five decades. Astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego after a roughly 10-day mission that took them farther from Earth than any humans have traveled since Apollo-era flights.

The mission tested the Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System under real crewed deep-space conditions, including life-support performance, manual piloting, and communications during high-stress reentry.

💡Traveling nearly 700,000 miles in total, the crew gathered imagery and scientific data during a lunar flyby and returned safely after enduring extreme reentry temperatures and a brief communications blackout, clearing a major milestone for NASA’s broader Artemis program aimed at future lunar surface missions.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: AIXTRON Bets Big on €40M Penang Chip Facility; Toyota Accelerates Hybrid Push With Factory Upgrade; Tazapay Expands Funding to Scale Global Payments; Startale Gains Fresh Capital for Blockchain Growth; Singtel Innov8 Backs Robotics Unicorn in Mega Round; StarMason Clears Path for Hyperscale AI Data Hub; Rare Earth Alliance Targets New Metals Facility; Foxconn Boosts Manufacturing With Major Investment; and DV8 Enters Digital Asset Custody With Acquisition

Environmental Sustainability: SHEIN Partners DHL to Scale Low-Emission Air Cargo; EU Commits Major Funding for Clean Energy and Transport Push; EcoCeres Launches SAF Pilot to Advance Green Aviation; Indonesia Opens Waste-to-Energy Projects to Investors; KWAP Backs District Cooling to Boost Energy Efficiency; and Umoe Expands Hydrogen Storage Production With New Facility

Aviation: ACCC Flags Rising Airfares Amid Middle East Disruptions; bp pulse Breaks Ground on EV Charging Hub at Melbourne Airport; Indonesia Reviews Airline Fuel Surcharge Hike as Costs Soar; Japan Incentivizes Tourism With Free Domestic Flights; Singapore Defers Passenger SAF Levy Amid Economic Pressures; Thailand Cuts Airfares and Adds Seats for Songkran Holiday; and World Fuel Expands Air Elite Network in Thailand and Georgia

Advanced Air Mobility: CALB Ramps Up Production of High-Density Flying Car Batteries; China Opens Major Road-Air Testing Hub for Next-Gen Mobility; DJI Patent Dispute Hits Insta360 Shares; China Eyes Drone Manufacturing Expansion With New Overseas Plant; and India Advances eVTOL Push With Indigenous Drone Production Deal

Marine: CrewDex Launches Cloud Platform to Streamline Fleet Operations; Hapag-Lloyd Signs Deals to Boost India Shipping Strategy; ePropulsion Opens Green Ship Testing Lab in South China; Eni Greenlights Major Offshore Gas Projects in Indonesia; Japan Wind Power Teams Up With GWEC to Accelerate Offshore Development; and APM Terminals Takes 49% Stake in Vietnam Deepwater Port

Space: Australia Selects Roo-ver for Moon South Pole Mission; Advanced Navigation Raises $50M to Expand Autonomous Systems; China Launches Human Space Research Program; Sustain Space Demonstrates On-Orbit Robotic Refueling; iSpace Restructures, Shifts Moon Landing to 2030; Orbital Lasers Secures $20M for Spaceborne Laser Tech; Space Compass to Deploy GEO Optical Relay Satellite; and NASA and KARI Expand Deep Space Exploration Collaboration

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Financing & Investments

Investment activity is clustering around Southeast Asia, with a strong tilt toward scaling high-tech manufacturing, digital finance, and AI-driven infrastructure as companies position for regional growth and supply chain resilience.

Germany-Malaysia

AIXTRON, a Germany-based supplier of deposition equipment for compound semiconductors, will spend €40 million ($46 million) to build a new manufacturing facility in Malaysia’s Penang region. The plant will include assembly and test operations, engineering support, and local purchasing capabilities, manufacturing some of the company’s 100/150/200 mm products primarily for customers in Asia. Operations are expected to begin in spring 2027, with first shipments anticipated in the second half of the year.

💡The company said the expansion is aimed at tapping into Southeast Asia’s semiconductor equipment ecosystem and will complement its existing facilities in Germany and the United Kingdom.



Japan-Vietnam

Toyota is investing $360 million to modernize its factory in Vietnam and establish a hybrid vehicle production line, beginning with the construction of a new office complex at its Phu Tho plant. The groundbreaking for the 8,700-square-meter facility, which includes a two-story office building, a training center with capacity for about 1,000 trainees annually, and green spaces, took place on March 26. Company officials described the project as the first phase of a broader plan to introduce Toyota’s first hybrid models assembled in Vietnam.

💡Executives said Toyota regards Vietnam as a key market in the region and has approved new investments incorporating advanced manufacturing technology.

Singapore

Tazapay, a Singapore-based payment infrastructure provider for emerging markets, has closed a Series B extension led by Circle Ventures, bringing total Series B funding to $36 million. New investors CMT Digital and Coinbase Ventures joined the round alongside existing backers including Peak XV Partners, GMO Venture Partners, and January Capital. The funding will support the company’s licensing expansion across multiple jurisdictions, accelerate go-to-market efforts in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and the Americas, and develop agentic payment infrastructure for AI-driven transactions.

💡Tazapay operates a regulated cross-border payments platform with licenses and registrations in Singapore, Canada, Australia, and the United States, and applications pending in the UAE, EU, and Hong Kong.

Singapore

Startale Group has completed a $63 million Series A round, following a $50 million second close from SBI Group that builds on a $13 million first close from Sony Innovation Fund in January 2026. The Singapore-based blockchain firm will use the funding to accelerate onchain infrastructure for finance, entertainment, and real-world asset adoption, scaling its Strium platform for tokenized securities and expanding adoption of JPYSC and USDSC stablecoins.

💡The company also plans to develop its Startale App into a SuperApp combining asset management, payments, and social features. SBI Group’s investment extends an existing partnership that includes Strium, a Layer 1 blockchain for tokenized securities, and JPYSC, a trust bank-backed JPY stablecoin co-developed through a joint venture announced in August 2025.


Singapore-China

Singapore-based Singtel Innov8 has backed Chinese robotics company ROBOTERA in a RMB 1 billion ($145 million) strategic funding round that valued the firm at over RMB 10 billion. The round included major new investors such as Gaocheng Capital, Woori Venture Partners, CICC Porsche Fund, and a South Korean technology company, with existing investors CDH Venture and Tsinghua Holding Tiancheng Asset Management significantly increasing their stakes.

💡The funds will accelerate technology iteration and product scale-up in e-commerce logistics, industrial manufacturing, and pharmaceutical distribution. ROBOTERA develops humanoid robots and dexterous hands largely in-house, shipping over 1,000 units in 2025 with half going to overseas markets. Cumulative orders have exceeded RMB 500 million, with clients including SF Express, Samsung, Geely, Lenovo, Haier and TCL.


Singapore-Vietnam

StarMason JSC, a joint venture between Singapore’s Sembcorp Development and Vietnam’s BB Holdings, has received investment approval for a hyperscale- and AI-ready data center campus in Ho Chi Minh City’s Saigon Hi-Tech Park. The project, the first data center development for StarMason, will be built on a 4.5-hectare site with up to 90MW of computing capacity and is designed to meet Uptime Institute Tier III standards with an ambition to achieve Tier IV classification.

💡Under Ho Chi Minh City’s investment portfolio decision for the high-tech park, priority sectors such as data centers require investments exceeding $100 million per hectare, placing the project’s minimum investment at $450 million. The approved project exceeds the park’s most recent data center investment of $250 million by local tech firm CMC.


South Korea-Australia-Vietnam

South Korea’s LS Eco Energy and Australia’s Lynas Rare Earth have entered into a framework agreement to build a rare earth metal factory in Vietnam. The facility, to be constructed by LS Eco Energy, is intended to expand Lynas’ existing operations that convert rare earth oxides into metals used in permanent magnet production.

The new site will support growing demand for rare earth metals and increase Lynas’ supply of metalized neodymium-praseodymium as well as selected heavy rare earth products including samarium, dysprosium, and terbium. The factory is expected to enter production in stages, with samarium metal as an initial priority.

💡The two companies also plan separate definitive agreements for a cross-subscription of convertible instruments valued at approximately A$30 million (US$20.9 million) each. In December 2025, LS Eco Energy announced it would invest an additional KRW28.5 billion (US$19.26 million) in its rare earth metals business in Vietnam to build processing facilities

Taiwan-Vietnam

Foxconn has invested an additional $287.1 million in its Vietnam-based subsidiary Fulian Precision Technology Component through its Singapore entity Ingrasys (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., according to a filing with the Taiwan Stock Exchange. The transaction increases Foxconn’s total investment in the unit to approximately $668 million while maintaining 100 percent ownership. A similar investment of $16.2 million was made in October 2025.

💡Fulian Precision Technology, headquartered in the Quang Chau Industrial Park in northern Vietnam, manufactures communications equipment, network cards, switches, digital receivers, display cards, memory modules, routers, Wi-Fi access points, base station equipment and sensors.

Thailand

DV8 Public Company Limited, a Thailand-based media, advertising, and event management firm, has entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire 100 percent of Rakkar Digital, a provider of digital asset custodial wallet services licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The transaction, subject to regulatory approvals, will make Rakkar Digital a wholly owned subsidiary. DV8 plans to inject up to 100 million baht (approximately $2.7 million) into the company to support operations and meet SEC net capital requirements, using internal working capital for the funding.

💡The acquisition is part of DV8’s strategy to expand into digital asset custody, a segment growing in Thailand’s digital finance sector.

Environmental Sustainability

Sustainability efforts continue, with growing momentum in clean energy, low-carbon transport, and circular infrastructure as both public and private players scale decarbonization solutions.

China

SHEIN has signed an agreement with DHL to adopt its GoGreen Plus service, supporting the use of sustainable aviation fuel within air cargo logistics. The service allocates lifecycle emissions reductions associated with SAF to corporate customers using internationally recognized accounting methodologies, with documentation through recognized certification frameworks.

💡The agreement builds on broader SAF-related initiatives by SHEIN, including a 2025 pilot with Atlas Air that used 187.3 tonnes of SAF across 14 charter flights, and participation in a China pilot program with Air China Cargo, CNAF, and CASRI. SHEIN has also joined the World Economic Forum-led Green Fuel Forward campaign.

EU-Vietnam

The European Union will invest €560 million ($649 million) in sustainable transport and clean energy in Vietnam. The package aligns with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and follows the recent upgrade of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The funding includes a €200 million agreement between EIB Global and Techcombank to expand lending for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable transport projects. European development banks also signed €230 million in loans with national power company EVN for the Bac Ai pumped storage hydropower plant, part of a nearly €400 million “Team Europe” financing package.

💡Additional deals cover a €23 million top-up for the Energy Transition Facility, a €20 million sustainable forest management program, and a €50 million vocational training initiative. A €40 million Sustainable Transport Facility will support public transport expansion, including railways, inland waterways, and urban mobility.


Hong Kong-Mainland China

EcoCeres has launched a sustainable aviation fuel pilot program in China called “Project Spark” in partnership with CASRI, CNAF, China Southern Airlines, Air China Cargo, Sichuan Airlines, and Huarong Chemical. SAF produced at EcoCeres’ Zhangjiagang facility was blended by CNAF and used to refuel multiple commercial flights at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport on March 16, with environmental credits transferred via the AnchorTrace platform.

💡The initiative pilots China’s independent SAF sustainability certification system, a framework for transferring Scope 1 and Scope 3 emissions, and a financing model for green premiums. EcoCeres’ SAF, made from waste feedstocks, delivers up to 90 percent lifecycle emissions reduction compared to conventional jet fuel. The company already supplies SAF to international carriers including Air New Zealand, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Qantas

Indonesia

Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund PT Danantara Investment Management has opened registration for companies seeking to become investment partners in the country’s Waste-to-Energy infrastructure program. The initiative aims to accelerate sustainable urban waste management, with the fund establishing a Verified Providers List of prequalified companies eligible to participate in Waste-to-Energy Facility Projects across Indonesia. Domestic and international firms with relevant experience may apply individually or as part of a consortium.

💡Expressions of Interest must be submitted by April 14, with the registration period running from March 25 to April 25. The fund will also hold virtual technical discussion sessions on March 26 and April 1 to accommodate participants from different regions.


Malaysia

Malaysia’s public sector pension fund KWAP is expected to commit up to MYR 190 million ($47.38 million) to Lestari Cooling Energy, a district cooling joint venture platform backed by KJTS Group and alternative investment firm Stonepeak. The funding will support the company’s strategy to develop district cooling and electricity distribution assets primarily in Malaysia.

💡District cooling systems can reduce energy consumption by up to 50 percent compared to traditional methods, supporting Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap. At full deployment, the company is expected to generate over 70,000 tCO2 in annual emissions savings.

Norway-China

Umoe Advanced Composites has started industrial production at its new manufacturing facility in Jiaxing, China, marking the first large-scale production of Type 4 composite cylinders at its largest global production base. The 12,000-square-meter facility triples the company’s global production capacity, with potential annual output of up to 20,000 cylinders, and will support production of multi-element gas containers including units for the Good Earth Green Hydrogen and Ammonia project in Australia.

💡The first MEGCs produced at the Jiaxing plant will be used for hydrogen storage, with the facility also supporting compressed natural gas applications. Located in the Yangtze River Delta, the site sits within a growing hydrogen development cluster.

Aviation

Aviation markets are navigating rising fuel costs, Middle East disruptions, and decarbonization efforts, with airlines, regulators, and service providers balancing operational resilience, regional tourism incentives, and sustainable infrastructure investment.

Australia

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), in its March 2026 domestic airline competition report,said disruptions to Middle Eastern transit hubs have reduced international services and shifted demand toward alternative routes, placing upward pressure on airfares. Fuel prices have increased amid energy market uncertainty, though Australian carriers are partially insulated by hedging, and the ACCC warned businesses against making misleading statements about price increases.

💡Domestic capacity grew 2.0 percent year-on-year in January 2026 while passenger numbers fell, with seat capacity remaining 3.3 percent below 2019 levels. Service reliability varied: Virgin Australia and Rex recorded low cancellation rates, while Jetstar’s on-time arrival rate was 67.7 percent. The Qantas Group and Virgin Australia reported strong first-half earnings, and workforce constraints persist in pilot and maintenance engineer roles.

Australia

bp pulse has broken ground on its first large-scale electric vehicle charging hub in Australia, located at Melbourne Airport and scheduled for completion in 2026. The facility will feature 24 charging bays with 150kW and 300kW chargers, two accessible bays, drive-through bays for larger vehicles, and amenities including a bathroom and canopy. The hub will be powered by 100 percent renewable electricity generated from the airport’s two onsite solar farms.

💡The project marks bp pulse’s first large-scale hub in Australia, defined as having more than eight bays. The site is expected to serve professional drivers, businesses, travelers, and locals, with Uber drivers eligible for existing EV charging discounts.

Indonesia

Indonesia’s transport ministry is reviewing a proposal from domestic airlines to increase fuel surcharges by 15 percent and raise the domestic airfare cap, as carriers face higher costs amid the Middle East conflict. The Indonesian National Air Carriers Association has requested the hikes, citing a near doubling of aviation fuel prices and a weakening rupiah that has increased dollar-denominated operational expenses.

💡The government said it will consider factors including airline finances, consumer purchasing power, and industry sustainability before making a decision. Fuel surcharges are currently set at 10 percent of the fare cap for jet aircraft and 25 percent for turboprops under 2023 regulations, while the existing fare ceiling dates to 2019. INACA also proposed temporary relief measures such as postponing value-added tax on aviation fuel and adjusting airport service fees.

Japan-Canada

Japan is using complimentary domestic flights as a tourism incentive to encourage international visitors, including Canadians, to explore regions beyond major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. Japan Airlines offers a free one-way domestic flight to travelers booking qualifying transpacific tickets from Canada, with taxes and fees still applicable, while All Nippon Airways has introduced similar offers for travelers from the UK and Europe. The initiatives aim to distribute tourism more evenly and address overtourism in marquee destinations.

💡The program aligns with Japan’s broader tourism strategy of regional revitalization and visitor dispersal, while Canadian visitors are considered a high-value market that tends to stay longer and spend more. Travel advisors note the offers reduce the cost barrier to reaching smaller airports and encourage multi-stop itineraries that support rural economies.

Singapore

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore has deferred the rollout of its planned sustainable aviation fuel levy, a world-first passenger-linked environmental charge, citing economic pressures from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The levy was originally scheduled to apply to tickets sold from April 1, 2026, for flights departing later in the year; under the revised timeline, it will apply to tickets sold from October 1, 2026, for flights departing from January 1, 2027.

💡The levy was introduced under Singapore’s Sustainable Air Hub Blueprint to fund SAF purchases and support aviation decarbonization, with a target of 1 percent SAF use on departing flights now shifted to 2027.

Thailand

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand is tightening fare monitoring and has secured agreements with six airlines to reduce ticket prices by 15–30 percent during the Songkran holiday period, alongside the addition of more than 29,000 seats. The move follows disruptions from the Middle East conflict that have constrained aviation operations and affected routes dependent on regional transit hubs.

💡Direct Thailand–Europe flights continue with altered flight paths, while passengers who previously transferred through Middle Eastern airports have shifted to direct services, leaving higher‑fare seats more commonly available.

US-Thailand

World Fuel has expanded its Air Elite network with the addition of MJets Company Limited in Thailand and Augusta Regional Airport Aviation Services in Georgia. MJets, based in Bangkok and Phuket, is one of Southeast Asia’s largest private aviation service providers, offering charter, ground handling, and maintenance, and holds IS-BAO and IS-BAH certifications.

💡Augusta Regional, located at Augusta Regional Airport (KAGS), serves business aviation traffic in the Central Savannah River Area with a 30‑acre ramp, NATA‑qualified line technicians, and guaranteed quick turns of 30 minutes or less.

Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility is gaining traction across China, with investments spanning batteries, testing infrastructure, and drone manufacturing as countries accelerate innovation and localize next-generation aviation technologies.

China

CALB has started mass production of aviation-grade batteries for Aridge, the flying car unit of Xpeng, with the first cells rolling off the line at its Chengdu plant. The high-silicon and high-nickel batteries, which feature energy density up to 360 Wh/kg and a maximum discharge rate of 25C, will power Aridge’s Land Aircraft Carrier.

💡CALB said the battery passed a 15.2-meter drop test without fire or explosion, and over 100,000 cells have been verified to meet both automotive and aviation airworthiness requirements.

China

China’s first national road-air integrated testing base has opened in Xinfeng county, Shaoguan, northern Guangdong, officially going into operation on March 20. Jointly built by five partners including the China Automotive Engineering Research Institute and GAC Group, the 573-hectare facility represents an investment of over 3.6 billion yuan and has been designated as the National Intelligent Connected Vehicle Quality Inspection and Testing Center (Guangdong) and a pilot platform for the province’s low-altitude economy.

💡The base uses a “three-in-one” architecture integrating low-altitude operations, physical test tracks, and laboratories, supporting over 100 test scenarios for autonomous vehicles and flying cars. Infrastructure includes a high-speed loop, a dynamic plaza, multiple taxiways, and vertical take-off and landing pads.

China

Shares in Arashi Vision fell 7 percent after the Insta360 camera maker was hit by a patent lawsuit filed by drone manufacturer DJI Technology. The Shenzhen-based DJI alleges that six patents involve technologies developed by former DJI employees within one year of their resignation, with the inventions closely related to tasks performed during their employment.

💡Arashi Vision said it is conducting an internal review. A person familiar with the matter noted that some inventors were listed as “requesting anonymity” in the domestic patent application but their real names were disclosed in corresponding international documents, revealing them as former DJI R&D personnel.

China-Kyrgyzstan

China is planning to build a drone manufacturing plant in Kyrgyzstan and deepen cooperation in smart agriculture following talks between Kyrgyz officials and Chinese tech firm Quanyibao. The Chinese side donated 12 UAVs to Kyrgyz authorities, intended for agricultural applications including crop protection, field monitoring, and precipitation induction.

💡Both sides are also exploring the establishment of a training center to develop local drone operation experience.

India

CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories has signed a technology transfer agreement with Chennai-based KRR Aerospace to mass produce the QPlane, an indigenous all-electric eVTOL UAV. The lightweight composite aircraft has a 20-kilometer operational range and is designed for defense surveillance, agricultural monitoring, and logistics delivery.

💡The partnership aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative and aims to reduce dependence on imported drone components.

Marine

Maritime innovation is advancing with digitalization, green propulsion, and sustainable energy projects driving efficiency, decarbonization, and expanded regional trade capacity.

Australia

Australian startup CrewDex has launched a cloud-based Crew-as-a-Service platform designed to centralize crew management, travel logistics, and vessel operations for multi-vessel fleets. The system aims to address the maritime sector’s reliance on spreadsheets and disconnected tools by integrating recruitment, onboarding, rotations, certification tracking, and payroll-ready data into a single auditable platform.

💡The solution combines three core modules: the CrewDex Portal for crew lifecycle management, SkyNav for integrated flight bookings, and a Vessel Portal covering maintenance, safety management, and operational logs. The platform is offered on an annual subscription basis with unlimited vessel and staff access.


Germany-India

Hapag-Lloyd has signed three letters of intent with the Indian government covering vessel reflagging, ship recycling, and port development. The agreements include exploring reflagging up to four ships under the Indian registry, cooperation on ship recycling capacity aligned with EU standards with potential to handle up to 100 vessels, and discussions to support development of Vadhavan Port alongside the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority.

💡The company aims to grow India-related volumes to around 3 million TEU by 2030 as part of its strategy to expand in emerging markets.

Hong Kong-Mainland China

ePropulsion has opened the Green and Intelligent Ships Testing (GIST) Onshore Joint Debugging Laboratory in Songshan Lake, Dongguan, marking the first onshore joint debugging test platform for green and intelligent vessels in south China to be recognized by the China Classification Society. The 1,000-square-meter facility supports simulation and verification of multiple marine power system configurations, including fully electric and hybrid propulsion systems, with testing covering batteries, propulsion, power distribution, energy management, and cooling under simulated operating conditions.

💡The laboratory operates alongside a hydrodynamics facility and water application test base, enabling a process from design and simulation to onshore integration and vessel trials. ePropulsion said the platform allows companies in the Greater Bay Area to conduct CCS-aligned testing locally, shortening R&D cycles and reducing certification costs, and will be open to the industry for testing, certification support, standards development, and technical training.

Italy-Indonesia

Eni has taken final investment decisions for the Gendalo and Gandang gas project (South Hub) and the Geng North and Gehem fields (North Hub) offshore Indonesia, 18 months after development approval in 2024. The projects leverage existing infrastructure, including the Jangkrik FPU and Bontang LNG plant, and are set to deliver up to 2 bscfd of gas and 90,000 bpd of condensate at plateau in 2029.

💡The South Hub involves seven producing wells tied back to the Jangkrik FPU, while the North Hub includes 16 wells connected to a new FPSO. Total resources are nearly 10 tcf of gas and 550 million barrels of condensate. Start-up is expected in 2028, with the developments to be among assets Eni plans to contribute to a combination with Petronas.

Japan

The Japan Wind Power Association has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Global Wind Energy Council to accelerate offshore wind development in Japan. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration to promote knowledge exchange, enhance industry and supply chain networks, and support sustainable growth in the sector.

💡Under the MOU, the organizations will facilitate business interactions through networking and trade events, organize capacity-building programs and workshops, and engage in regular dialogue to exchange best practices on offshore wind policy and regulatory frameworks.

Netherlands-Vietnam

APM Terminals has acquired a 49% stake in the Hateco Hai Phong International Container Terminal (HHIT) in northern Vietnam, becoming operating partner alongside Hateco Group following three years of joint development. The deepwater facility in Haiphong’s Lach Huyen area features two berths capable of handling vessels up to 18,000 TEU, positioning it as the largest such facility in the region with direct services linking northern Vietnam to Europe and the U.S.

💡The terminal has been selected for the Gemini Cooperation network operated by Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd.

Space

Space exploration and technology are rapidly advancing, with investments spanning lunar missions, autonomous systems, satellite communications, and on-orbit servicing, highlighting global collaboration and commercialization in the sector.

Australia

NASA has selected Intuitive Machines to carry Australia’s first lunar rover, Roo-ver, to the Moon’s South Pole region in 2030 under the Commercial Lunar Payload Services initiative. The CT-4 mission will also transport additional scientific instruments to support lunar environment research.

💡Roo-ver is being developed by the ELO2 consortium with approximately $42 million in funding from the Australian Space Agency’s Moon to Mars Initiative. The rover will carry an integrated NASA payload for scientific analysis, with the mission aimed at collecting surface data to support future human exploration and long-term sustainability efforts at the lunar South Pole.

Australia

The National Reconstruction Fund Corporation is investing $50 million in Advanced Navigation as part of a $158 million Series C round that values the company at over $1 billion. The Australian firm develops autonomous navigation systems that operate when GPS signals are unavailable, using AI-based inertial navigation technology for applications including mining, defense, aerospace, and space missions.

💡The investment will support expansion of Advanced Navigation’s hardware and software design and production in Australia, commercialize locally developed intellectual property, and build supply chain resilience. The company’s systems are designed for complex environments ranging from underground mines and rough seas to lunar operations.

China

China will begin soliciting proposals on April 1 for a space human research program targeting astronaut health during future space station missions and lunar landings. The initiative aims to create a space human atlas and research database, studying microgravity effects on bones, muscles, cardiovascular function, metabolism, cognition, and aging.

💡The program builds on space medicine experiments aboard the Tiangong station. China plans a crewed lunar landing by 2030, with one taikonaut set for a mission exceeding one year this year. Previous research includes the country’s first space organ chip study and the world’s first artificial blood vessel tissue chip experiment.

China

Sustain Space, a Chinese aerospace startup, has successfully demonstrated a flexible robotic arm in orbit, completing refueling simulations aboard the Yuxing-3 06 satellite launched March 16. Tests included autonomous, ground-controlled, and vision-guided refueling simulations, with the flexible continuum arm developed by Tsinghua University’s Shenzhen International Graduate School achieving precise docking at altitude.

💡The Suzhou-based company said the test advances on-orbit servicing capabilities for China’s commercial space sector. China previously launched the Shijian-25 satellite in January 2025 to verify satellite fuel replenishment technologies.

Japan

iSpace has delayed its first NASA-supported moon landing from 2027 to 2030 as part of a strategic shift to focus on lunar orbiter development. The Tokyo-based company cited a restructuring of its lander programs in Japan and the United States, with CEO Jumpei Nozaki stating that the company aims to secure a larger role in NASA’s Artemis program as the only private firm outside the U.S. with moon landing technology.

💡The company plans to launch five lunar orbiters by 2030 to provide telecommunications, navigation, and surface observation services. Its third lunar landing mission remains scheduled for 2028 under Japan’s commercial space program using a new lander. iSpace has faced two failed landing attempts, losses, and a declining share price since its 2023 stock market listing, and expects to trim its global workforce of approximately 300 employees as part of the restructuring.

Japan

SKY Perfect JSAT’s carve-out startup Orbital Lasers has raised ¥3.02 billion ($20 million) in a Series A round, bringing cumulative equity financing to ¥3.92 billion since its seed round. The company, which develops spaceborne laser systems, will transition from a consolidated subsidiary to an equity-method affiliate within the SKY Perfect JSAT Group, allowing faster decision-making and greater operational flexibility.

💡SKY Perfect JSAT will continue collaborating with Orbital Lasers to combine its satellite operations expertise with the startup’s advanced laser technologies, aiming to create new value in space optical communications and expand business opportunities in high-growth sectors. The funding round included a third-party allotment of new shares and issuance of J-KISS convertible instruments.

Japan-Switzerland

Space Compass Corporation, a joint venture between NTT and SKY Perfect JSAT, has agreed to purchase a GEO optical data relay satellite from Swiss manufacturer SWISSTo12. The compact HummingSat will support Space Compass’ planned optical data relay service, designed to enable real-time transmission of Earth observation data by connecting low-Earth orbit satellites with ground networks via geostationary orbit.

💡The system aims to eliminate delays in accessing satellite imagery, with potential applications in disaster response, maritime surveillance, and secure communications.

US-South Korea

NASA and the Korea AeroSpace Administration have expanded joint research into L4 and deep space exploration, holding their second bilateral team meeting from March 24 to 27 at the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute. The collaboration follows a September 2024 agreement focused on Sun-Earth Lagrange point 4 exploration, with cooperation now extending to areas including deep space optical communication.

💡The joint efforts aim to advance space weather observation and space radiation research, with L4 considered a promising vantage point for evaluating solar activity when combined with existing observation points at L1 and L5.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Summary

Financing & Investments: China Leads Industry 4.0 Adoption as Europe Falls Behind; Malaysia Secures $22.35 Billion in Digital Investments for 2025; Carsome Raises $30 Million to Expand AI-Powered Auto Platform; Datakrew Closes $2.6 Million for EV Battery Intelligence; Video Rebirth Lands $80 Million for AI Video Generation; Dtcpay Raises $10 Million to Scale Stablecoin Payments; Gobi Partners Eyes Vietnam’s National VC Fund; and SmartSolar Adds Debt Funding to Reach $3.15 Million.

Environmental Sustainability: COP30 Report Outlines $1.3 Trillion Climate Finance Roadmap; HKTDC GreenBiz HK Forum Draws 550 Delegates; Sovereign Wealth Fund Opens Registration for Waste-to-Energy Partners; TNB and TM Partner on Green Energy and EV Charging; Virdalis Raises $700,000 for Duckweed-Based Animal Feed Protein; Digital Edge Secures $665 Million Green Loan for AI-Ready Data Center; and Joint Framework Develops Green Jobs Statistical Indicators.

Aviation: Moisture Absorption Identified as Key Driver of Composite Degradation; Productivity Commission Probes Regional Airfare Affordability; Passenger Traffic Surpasses 2019 Levels but Airport Revenues Lag; EASA Flags Safety Lapses in Air India Fleet; and Ericsson and VNPT Partner on Airport Mobile Infrastructure

Advanced Air Mobility: Aridge Raises $200 Million to Scale Modular eVTOL Vehicle; Sino Jet Completes Inaugural Low-Altitude Flight in Hangzhou; and EHang Signs MOU with Thai Partners to Deploy eVTOL Networks

Marine: Hapag-Lloyd Signs Three MOUs to Expand Indian Shipping Presence; IEA Releases Demand-Side Measures Amid Middle East Oil Disruption; MSC Acquires 50 Percent Stake in Sinokor Maritime; Chartwell Marine and Japanese Shipbuilders Partner on Offshore Wind Vessels; and UC Berkeley Study Highlights Japan’s Port Decarbonization Leadership

Space: Shenzhou 21 Crew Completes Second Spacewalk; Tiangong Astronauts Harvest Space-Grown Tomatoes; Ground-Based Space Station Operational After 20 Years; Wukong Satellite Maps Forbush Decrease Events; HKUST and Southeast University Forge Space Robotics Alliance; Dawn Aerospace Tests Radar Tracking With Defense Forces; Starlink Draft Pricing Released for Vietnam Market; and Vietnam Opens $266 Million National Space Center

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Financing & Investments

Capital is flowing decisively toward AI-driven platforms and digital infrastructure across Southeast Asia, with Malaysia emerging as a digital investment hub, while China’s manufacturing digitization outpaces legacy industrial economies in Europe.

Germany-China

A global study on industrial digitalization finds that China is leading in next-generation manufacturing adoption, while parts of Europe are falling behind due to legacy systems and structural challenges.

The Industry 4.0 Barometer 2026, conducted by German consultancy MHP, surveyed over 1,200 industrial companies and found overall digitalization adoption rose from 48 percent in 2022 to 66 percent in 2026, with China at 72 percent and the United States at 69 percent, compared to 57 percent in the DACH region of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

💡The report highlights widening gaps in technologies such as digital twins and artificial intelligence, with China reporting 84 percent adoption of digital twins in logistics and 71 percent AI usage, while the DACH region logged 42 percent and 37 percent respectively. The study notes that fragmented data systems and reliance on legacy IT infrastructure continue to hinder transformation in Europe, where AI adoption often remains limited to pilot projects.

Malaysia

Malaysia secured MYR 87.4 billion ($22.35 billion) in approved digital investments in 2025, driven largely by artificial intelligence, big data, data centers and cloud services, according to the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation. The investments, sourced from over 600 digital status companies, are expected to generate more than 31,000 high-value jobs and contributed significantly to the broader MYR 152.9 billion in approved investments reported for the information and communication sub-sector.

💡Domestic investors accounted for the largest share at MYR 36.66 billion, followed by Singapore, the United States and China. Digital minister Gobind Singh Deo described the results as validation of the country’s national digital strategy, while MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil noted that AI-related roles accounted for over 12,600 of the projected jobs, reflecting a shift toward higher-value, AI-led growth as Malaysia works toward its goal of becoming an AI Nation by 2030.


Malaysia

e-commerce platform Carsome Group Inc. has secured a strategic investment round exceeding $30 million, drawing participation from both new and existing backers including the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC), Gobi Partners, and Asia Partners. The capital will support initiatives in supply chain sourcing and the application of data and artificial intelligence to accelerate the firm’s regional expansion strategy.

💡The partnership aims to strengthen ties between Southeast Asia and Greater China, leveraging Hong Kong’s role as a regional gateway for automotive technology and talent.

Singapore

Deep-tech company Datakrew has raised $2.6 million in a Pre-Series A funding round to expand its electric vehicle battery intelligence platform globally. The round was led by Greenwillow Capital Management, with participation from existing investors including Beenext, 500 Global, and SEEDS, as the company aims to scale its OXRED MyFleet platform and AI-driven analytics across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

💡The company, which has tracked over 10,000 battery assets across seven countries, will use the capital to advance its OXRED GuardianAI and OXRED InsurShield products while expanding its leadership team.

Singapore

AI video startup Video Rebirth has closed an $80 million funding round, including a $30 million extension that built upon an initial $50 million raised in November. The round drew participation from AMD Ventures, Hyundai, and a coalition of venture capital firms across Asia.

💡The company stated that the fresh capital will be used to accelerate commercialization of its video generation products and drive global market expansion.

Singapore

Singapore-based digital payments company dtcpay has raised $10 million in a Series A funding round led by Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India. The company said the capital will support product enhancements, strengthen infrastructure, and expand operations across newly licensed jurisdictions, with a focus on entering the European market through its Luxembourg Electronic Money Institution license.

The firm bridges digital assets with traditional finance, enabling transactions in stablecoins for everyday use, and holds payment licenses in Singapore, Luxembourg, Hong Kong, Australia, the United States, and Canada

Vietnam

Malaysia and Hong Kong-based venture capital firm Gobi Partners has expressed interest in investing in Vietnam, including the country’s newly established national VC fund, during a meeting with Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan in Hanoi. The fund, created under Decree 264/2025, launched with an initial state budget contribution of VND500 billion ($19.1 million) and has the capacity to grow to VND2,000 billion over five years with additional contributions.

💡Gobi Co-Founder and Chair Thomas G. Tsao led the delegation, which also discussed potential collaboration in startup incubation across semiconductors, artificial intelligence, big data, and new energy, along with sandbox initiatives for robotics and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Vietnam

Vietnamese rooftop solar provider SmartSolar has raised additional debt funding, bringing its total capital raised to $3.15 million across equity and debt, as the company looks to expand its financing offerings for small and medium-sized businesses. The latest financing includes a $300,000 loan from Switzerland’s SECO Startup Fund, which may also unlock a further $1 million debt facility from a German travel firm.

💡The company previously secured $1.85 million in seed funding, and it noted that the current round reflects a move toward debt-based financing as it grows. SmartSolar installs and maintains rooftop solar systems with no upfront cost for clients, offering long-term contracts at rates below standard grid electricity prices. It plans to grow its presence in southern Vietnam and explore opportunities in neighboring markets.

Environmental Sustainability

From sovereign wealth funds to corporate partnerships, sustainability financing is scaling up across Southeast Asia—spanning waste-to-energy infrastructure, green data centers, alternative proteins, and labor market data systems.

Global

The UN Climate Change released the executive report of the COP30 conference on March 19, outlining key outcomes and next steps following the meeting held in Belém in November 2025, where nearly all countries adopted 56 decisions by consensus. The report highlights strategic roadmaps introduced by the COP30 Presidency, including plans to transition away from fossil fuels in a just manner and to halt and reverse deforestation by 2030.

💡The initiative also advances the Baku to Belém Roadmap aimed at mobilizing $1.3 trillion in climate finance to support developing countries, while reinforcing the Global Climate Action Agenda and launching the Global Implementation Accelerator to mobilize governments, private sector actors, and civil society.


Hong Kong-Thailand

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) launched its GreenBiz HK campaign in Bangkok, featuring a forum that drew more than 550 government and business representatives from Thailand to discuss green finance, green technology, supply chains and sustainable smart city development.

💡The campaign, part of the Economic and Trade Express platform supporting SMEs and startups, also included networking sessions and business matching. A Hong Kong Green Team delegation held meetings with Thai organizations such as the Thai Green Building Institute and the Eastern Economic Corridor Office to explore potential collaborations in sustainability and low-carbon construction.

Indonesia

Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund, PT Danantara Investment Management (DIM), has opened registration for companies to apply as potential investment partners in its Waste-to-Energy infrastructure program. The fund is establishing a Verified Providers List to prequalify firms for Waste-to-Energy Facility Projects across the country, with expressions of interest due by April 14 and full registrations accepted through April 25.

💡The initiative aims to accelerate urban waste management under the government’s framework for converting waste into energy using eco-friendly technologies. Eligible applicants include domestic and international firms with relevant experience, which may apply individually or as part of a consortium; DIM will also host virtual technical discussion sessions on March 26 and April 1.

Malaysia

Malaysia’s Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and Telekom Malaysia (TM) have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on green energy solutions and the development of smarter, more interconnected energy and telecommunications infrastructure.

The partnership aims to combine the utility firm’s renewable energy expertise with the telecom company’s digital infrastructure capabilities, with initial plans including solar system installations at up to 150 TM premises and the expansion of electric vehicle charging networks.

Singapore

Biotechnology firm Virdalis has raised $700,000 in pre-seed funding led by Wavemaker Impact to develop a protein ingredient for the global animal feed industry using Wolffia globosa, commonly known as duckweed. The company plans to scale pilot production systems, expand its technical team, and pursue commercial agreements with feed manufacturers across Southeast Asia.

💡The global animal feed protein market faces supply chain vulnerabilities due to concentrated production in a limited number of countries, according to the company, which is developing cultivation and processing systems that can operate without reliance on arable land or specific climate conditions. Wavemaker Impact noted that duckweed’s biological characteristics could allow countries to produce feed protein domestically, turning feed security from a trade dependency into a sovereign capability.

Singapore-Indonesia

Singapore-based data center operator Digital Edge has closed a $665 million green loan to fund the first phase of its 500MW CGK Campus in Bekasi, Indonesia, a $4.5 billion multi-phase project and one of the country’s largest AI-ready hyperscale data center developments. The transaction, structured under the company’s Green Financing Framework, marks the largest green loan secured for a data center project in Indonesia, according to the firm.

💡The financing was led by a group of international and regional banks including BNP Paribas, DBS, Mizuho, OCBC, and PT Bank Central Asia Tbk. The CGK campus is being designed to target a power usage effectiveness of 1.25 and LEED certification, incorporating recycled water systems and renewable energy as part of Digital Edge’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.

Vietnam-Denmark

Vietnam is developing a national framework for green jobs statistical indicators in collaboration with Denmark, aimed at supporting the country’s transition toward a green economy. A counsellor at the Danish Embassy in Hanoi noted that a reliable national data system is essential for Vietnam’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, requiring integrated data across environmental, economic, energy, and labor sectors.

💡The framework was developed by Vietnam’s National Institute for Economic and Financial Policy and the General Statistics Office, with pilot surveys conducted in Quang Ninh and Phu Tho provinces.

Aviation

As passenger volumes outpace pre-pandemic highs, the sector grapples with lingering financial strain, regulatory enforcement gaps, and the urgent need to modernize ground infrastructure to support future growth.

Australia

New research from Monash University and RMIT has identified moisture absorption as the primary driver of long-term degradation in aircraft-grade carbon fibre composites, addressing a long-standing uncertainty in aerospace engineering. The study, published in Composites Part A, found that the amount of moisture a composite absorbs over time is the key factor in predicting structural performance, rather than the specific temperature or humidity conditions of the operating environment.

💡The findings suggest that accelerated aging methods used in aerospace testing can still reliably predict long-term performance, provided moisture content is properly understood and controlled. The research also revealed that the internal arrangement of fibres plays a decisive role in how materials resist degradation, pointing toward opportunities for designing composite structures with greater long-term environmental durability.

Australia

Australia’s Productivity Commission has held a consultation session with members of the Pilbara Chamber of Commerce and Industry as part of its ongoing inquiry into regional airfares. Commissioners Martin Stokie and Catherine de Fontenay met with local businesses to discuss the impact of flight costs, service reliability, and the effect on access to essential services and family connections in remote communities.

💡The inquiry, launched in October 2025, is examining factors influencing airfare pricing and availability for passenger flights to and from areas outside major cities. The Commission has opened a first round of submissions, which closed on March 15, and is developing policy recommendations aimed at supporting a competitive, reliable, and affordable regional aviation network.

Global

Global passenger traffic reached 9.4 billion in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 4 percent, though airport revenues have yet to fully recover, according to a new report from Airports Council International World. Total global airport revenues stood at $194.9 billion for the year, remaining 2.1 percent below 2019 levels in real terms, with aeronautical revenues 3 percent below and non-aeronautical revenues 9 percent below pre-pandemic benchmarks.

💡The report notes that while revenues are expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels from 2026 onward, the pace of recovery will depend on financing conditions, regulatory frameworks, and broader economic factors. Global return on invested capital rose to 6.3 percent in 2024 but remains below the sector’s weighted average cost of capital, which ACI World’s director general said highlights the financial pressures airports continue to face and the need for supportive regulatory frameworks to enable infrastructure investment.


India-Europe

European aviation authorities have identified safety lapses in Air India aircraft following surprise inspections under the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s Safety Assessment of Foreign Aircraft program. Inspections showed the ratio of safety issues per inspection for the airline’s aircraft reached 1.96 in January, a level considered a warning threshold that can lead to heightened scrutiny or operational restrictions.

💡India’s aviation regulator responded by imposing corrective measures and increasing inspections of aircraft scheduled for international operations, with only compliant aircraft cleared for service. The ratio has since improved to 1.76, though it remains above levels typical for airlines with strong safety performance.


Sweden-Vietnam

Ericsson and Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) have announced a partnership to deliver next-generation mobile infrastructure for major airport projects in Vietnam, marking their first collaboration in the airport industry. The Swedish telecommunications company stated that the initiative supports Vietnam’s digital transformation efforts.

💡VNPT will deploy Ericsson’s radio and RAN Compute solutions to provide high-capacity coverage for dense indoor environments such as airport terminals, along with multi-band support for international travelers.

Advanced Air Mobility

China’s advanced air mobility sector is moving from certification to commercial operations, with significant capital injections and cross-border partnerships signaling a push to export eVTOL infrastructure and operational models to Southeast Asia.

China

Aridge, a subsidiary of Xpeng, has raised nearly $200 million in an equity financing round with participation from Hillhouse Capital, HongShan, Gaorong Ventures, and Fortune Capital. The company stated that its cumulative equity funding has reached nearly $1 billion, positioning it as the most funded company in Asia’s manned electric vertical takeoff and landing sector.

💡The new capital will support commercialization of the Land Aircraft Carrier, a modular vehicle with a detachable air module designed to connect to a six-wheeled ground module for storage and road travel. Production is set to take place at a facility in Guangzhou with a reported annual capacity of up to 10,000 air modules. Aridge, formerly known as Xpeng AeroHT, rebranded in October 2025 as part of its globalization strategy.

China

Sino Jet’s Zhejiang Low-Altitude Mobility Company has completed its inaugural flight, operating a helicopter from the ONE53 landmark in Hangzhou’s Qianjiang New City to Fuchun Resort in approximately 10 minutes—a trip that typically takes 90 minutes by road. The company stated that the flight marks its transition from qualification preparation to substantive operations as it extends its business aviation expertise into the low-altitude mobility sector.

💡The subsidiary secured a CCAR Part 135 Air Operator Certificate and operating license from China’s civil aviation authority in January 2026. Sino Jet has also signed a firm purchase agreement for 50 AE200 eVTOL aircraft from Aerofugia, which the company describes as the largest publicly disclosed firm commercial eVTOL order in China to date. The group plans to develop similar three-dimensional mobility connections in other regions, including central and western China, the Greater Bay Area, and Hainan.


China-Thailand

EHang’s management team met with high-level Thai government officials in Bangkok on March 19 to discuss the deployment of the company’s eVTOL aircraft across multiple applications. The discussions focused on using the technology to alleviate urban traffic congestion, enhance emergency medical response, and improve connectivity in remote areas. The Ministry of Transport stated it would support efforts to introduce the technology and direct the aviation authority to accelerate related regulations.

💡Following the meeting, EHang signed a memorandum of understanding with Bangkok Land, Aerial Sea Thailand, and China Harbour Engineering Thailand to jointly explore urban air mobility solutions covering passenger transport, logistics, emergency response, and medical rescue services. Thai officials acknowledged trial operations conducted by EHang in China as a reference for developing local regulations.

Marine

Maritime markets are being reshaped by strategic consolidation—MSC’s stealth tanker fleet expansion, Hapag-Lloyd’s deepening India footprint—while energy security concerns and port decarbonization efforts gain urgency amid geopolitical disruptions.

Germany-India

German container carrier Hapag-Lloyd has signed three letters of intent with the Indian government covering vessel reflagging, ship recycling, and port development, as the company looks to expand its presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing shipping markets. The agreements, finalized following discussions between the carrier’s chief executive and India’s shipping minister, include exploring the reflagging of up to four vessels under the Indian registry, pending further commercial and regulatory reviews.

The framework also involves cooperation on expanding India’s ship recycling capacity with an eye toward EU standards, and discussions on supporting the development of Vadhavan Port alongside the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority.


Global

The International Energy Agency has set out a range of demand-side measures that governments, businesses and households can implement to ease economic pressures from oil market disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The war has triggered what the agency called the largest supply disruption in global oil market history, with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz reduced to a trickle and crude oil prices surpassing $100 per barrel, alongside sharp increases in diesel, jet fuel, and liquefied petroleum gas.

The IEA report outlines ten measures focused primarily on road transport, which accounts for roughly 45 percent of global oil demand, while also addressing aviation, cooking, and industry. Recommended actions include working from home where possible, reducing highway speed limits, encouraging public transport, alternating private vehicle access in large cities, and diverting LPG use away from transport to preserve supplies for essential applications such as cooking.

💡The agency noted that while demand-side measures cannot fully offset the scale of disrupted supply, they can help lower costs for consumers and reduce market strains until normal flows resume.


Switzerland-South Korea

Public filings in Cyprus and Greece have confirmed that Mediterranean Shipping Company, through its SAS Shipping Agencies Services division, has acquired a 50 percent ownership stake in South Korean operator Sinokor Maritime.Sinokor, previously solely owned by founder Ga-Hyun Chung, emerged as the buyer in a tanker purchasing spree beginning in late 2025, with Forbes reporting that corporate records identified 11 tankers registered to an MSC-linked company and sources estimating total tanker acquisitions at 76 vessels or more.

💡The partnership positions the combined entity to control a significant share of the VLCC market, with Bloomberg estimating eventual control of approximately 150 supertankers and a 40 percent market share, while other analysts put the figure closer to 25 percent. The move follows MSC’s pattern of using SAS to enter new segments, including the 2024 acquisition of Gram Car Carriers.

UK-Japan

UK-based ship designer Chartwell Marine and the Cooperative Association of Japan Shipbuilders, an industry organization representing 59 Japanese shipyards, have signed a memorandum of understanding to support the development and local construction of vessels for Japan’s offshore wind industry. The collaboration will focus on crew transfer vessels and service operation vessels based on Chartwell’s conceptual designs, which were previously introduced in Japan through a Nippon Foundation-supported program led by the association.

💡Under the agreement, the association will facilitate communication between domestic stakeholders and Chartwell to support shipowners, operators, and yards on vessel projects and early-stage design development. The partnership aims to help meet local content requirements as Japan’s offshore wind sector expands, with potential future extension to other vessel types including battery-powered and hybrid high-speed passenger vessels.

US-Japan

A new analysis from the University of California, Berkeley examines Japan’s Carbon Neutral Port certification framework and the Port of Yokohama’s decarbonization plan, highlighting the country’s approach to reducing maritime emissions amid regulatory uncertainty at the International Maritime Organization. The study, commissioned by Pacific Environment and authored by the director of UC Berkeley’s Environment Center, notes that Japan’s CNP program sets benchmarks for terminal emissions reductions, while Yokohama’s initiative includes 121 projects ranging from harbor craft electrification to next-generation marine fuels.

The analysis offers recommendations for strengthening Japan’s port decarbonization efforts, including making shore power a mandatory requirement for higher certification levels, enhancing electric power infrastructure planning, and shortening the certification revision cycle from five years to two or three years.

💡For Yokohama, the study suggests providing more detail on hydrogen infrastructure plans and expanding emissions inventories to include ocean-going vessels and trucking operations. The report notes that ports across Asia, including in China, South Korea, and Singapore, are advancing similar decarbonization strategies, positioning the region as a growing force in maritime emissions reduction.

Space

Across the region, space programs are shifting from foundational infrastructure to operational maturity—marked by China’s sustained orbital activity and advanced ground-based testing, Vietnam’s emergence as a space player through international partnerships, and New Zealand’s push for sovereign aerospace capacity.

China

Two astronauts from China’s Shenzhou 21 mission completed a roughly seven-hour spacewalk on March 16, installing debris shielding on the exterior of the Tiangong space station. Commander Zhang Lu and crewmate Wu Fei carried out the work outside the Wentian experiment module, with support from a third astronaut inside the station, ground teams, and the station’s robotic arm.

💡The space station remains permanently occupied, with China planning to launch the Shenzhou 23 and Shenzhou 24 crewed missions along with a Tianzhou cargo spacecraft later this year. The next-generation Mengzhou crew capsule could also make its first visit to Tiangong in the coming months following a successful test in February.

China

Astronauts aboard China’s Tiangong space station have harvested a crop of cherry tomatoes grown in an aeroponic cultivation system, which uses a nutrient mist to significantly reduce water consumption compared to soil-based or hydroponic methods. Footage released by state media showed the produce being displayed inside a box-like growing environment equipped with a full-spectrum LED panel and monitoring windows for observing root development.

💡The experiment is intended to inform long-duration deep-space missions by demonstrating how crews could grow their own food. Similar research has been conducted on the International Space Station, where astronauts have grown tomatoes and other crops for years, with benefits ranging from nutritional self-sufficiency to psychological well-being.


China

A major aerospace research facility in northeastern China, known as the “ground-based space station,” has become operational after nearly two decades of development, offering the ability to simulate nine types of extreme space conditions within a single environment. The Space Environment Simulation and Research Infrastructure, developed by Harbin Institute of Technology and China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation and completed in 2024, can replicate coupled factors such as radiation and ultra-low temperatures, setting it apart from single-factor simulators commonly used elsewhere.

The facility has supported testing for more than 2,000 aerospace components and over 10 major space mission models, with commercial spaceflight experiments accounting for 67 percent of missions conducted by late 2025. Open to international partners through initiatives such as the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization, the infrastructure has served more than 200 user organizations and delivered over 60,000 hours of testing services.

💡Officials said the facility will continue advancing higher-precision simulation capabilities to support future missions including crewed lunar landings and Mars sample returns.

China

Chinese scientists have used data from the Dark Matter Particle Explorer satellite, known as Wukong, to precisely measure eight Forbush decrease events involving electrons and positrons, marking the first time the behavioral characteristics of these particles during both the decline and recovery phases have been detailed. Forbush decreases refer to temporary reductions in cosmic ray flux following coronal mass ejections, which alter the magnetic environment of interplanetary space.

💡The research team analyzed observational data collected from 2016 to 2024 and published the findings in Physical Review Letters. Wukong, China’s first spaceborne dark matter detection satellite launched in December 2015, offers high energy resolution and strong particle identification capabilities that provided distinct advantages for the study.


Hong Kong-Mainland China

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s Space Robotics and Energy Centre has signed a memorandum of understanding with Southeast University to establish a long-term strategic partnership focused on space robotics, deep space energy systems, and embodied intelligence. The agreement, formalized during a visit by a Nanjing municipal delegation to HKUST’s campus, aims to advance research innovation, technology transfer, and talent cultivation in support of China’s aerospace ambitions.

💡The collaboration builds on an existing partnership established in 2024, including joint participation in the Hong Kong Operation Robot project for the Chang’e 8 mission. The two institutions will combine HKUST’s strengths in AI, robotics, and advanced materials with Southeast University’s expertise in mechanical engineering, instrumentation, and energy systems to address challenges such as autonomous space robotics and space energy management, while also exploring civilian applications for high-end manufacturing and smart city development.


New Zealand

New Zealand-based Dawn Aerospace has completed a trial with the country’s defense forces to test radar tracking of its suborbital spaceplane. The exercise involved flying the Aurora from a national aerospace center while a naval frigate used its onboard radar to monitor the vehicle, allowing domestic collection of performance data without the use of overseas test ranges.

💡The effort marks an initial step in applying reusable rocket-powered vehicles for repeatable high-speed flight profiles, with future versions of the spaceplane intended to exceed Mach 3.5 and altitudes above 100 kilometers. Conducting such tests locally supports New Zealand’s development of sovereign aerospace capabilities and retains related investment within the country.


US-Vietnam

Vietnam’s Telecommunications Authority has released draft pricing for Starlink’s satellite Internet services, showing a monthly fee of $85 and a one-time equipment cost of $350, though the company has not yet announced an official start date. The proposed rates are similar to those in Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa, but exceed current local fiber optic costs of approximately $11.40 per month and 4G or 5G mobile plans ranging from $3.80 to $11.40.

💡Starlink Services Vietnam received its operating license in February, with initial capacity set at four gateways and no more than 600,000 terminal units, a fraction of the country’s roughly 25 million Internet users.

Vietnam-Japan

Vietnam inaugurated its National Space Center on March 13, a nine-hectare facility developed with Japanese official development assistance at a total investment of VND7,000 billion ($266 million). The center includes an operations hub, satellite data and research facilities, a ground system with a 9.3-meter antenna, and a human resources development unit, with the aim of building infrastructure for Earth observation satellite technology and training a skilled workforce.

💡Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said Vietnam aims to reach a moderately advanced level in space science and technology in Southeast Asia by 2030 and strengthen self-reliance in satellite technology beyond that year. He also called for the launch of the LOTUSat-1 Earth observation satellite, jointly developed with Japan, by late 2027 following delays caused by a rocket failure, and urged expanded collaboration between Vietnamese and Japanese institutions in the space sector.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: AirTrunk Opens Singapore HQ; AirTrunk Secures JP¥191.6 Billion Green Loan in Japan; Accelerated Infrastructure Capital to Develop $2.1B AI Data Center in Vietnam; Bursa Malaysia Seeks Feedback on Digital Currency ETF Rules; CUSTA Raises $4.3M in Pre-Series A; PDG Plans Up to $5B in Debt Financing; MetaComp Completes Pre-A+ Round Backed by Alibaba; Empyrean Sky Partners Announces $90M First Close; KAST Raises $80M in Series A; and Cooler Master Invests $200M in Vietnam

Environmental Sustainability: Sydney Airport Research Supports SAF Development; ISCC Partners with OMV and Airbus on SAF Ecosystem; Re Sustainability and Indian Oil to Launch Lubricant Recycling Program; CTDC, BGMC, and reNIKOLA Sign Green Energy Term Sheet; and Equator Renewables Asia Raises S$50M for Indonesian Project

Aviation: Qantas Agrees to $105M Settlement Over Flight Credits; Report Details Slot Utilization at Sydney Airport; IATA Rolls Out Three AI Initiatives for Air Cargo; IndiGo CEO Resigns Following Major Operational Failure; Bharat Forge Inaugurates Landing Gear Facility with Liebherr; and Air New Zealand to Cancel Roughly 1,100 Flights

Advanced Air Mobility: Eve Partners for eVTOL Operations in Australia; EHang Reports First GAAP-Profitable Quarter; EHang Partners with Türk Telekom for AAM in Türkiye; WEF Releases 10-Step Strategy for AAM in India; Japan Identifies 61 Priority Tech Targets Including AI and Robotics; and SkyDrive Signs LOI with Aeroauto for U.S. eVTOL Sales

Marine: ILO and BIMCO Launch Pilot Injury Scheme for Bangladesh Ship Recycling; ONE Boosts Stake in Seaspan Holding Company; Singapore Offshore Wind Sector Set for Rapid Workforce Growth; Seatrium Secures Contract for FSRU Conversion from Karpowership; and US Treasury Issues One-Month OFAC License Easing Crude Voyages

Space: China Plans Series of Deep-Space Exploration Missions; Dassai Sake Fermented Aboard ISS Returns to Japan; South Korea to Test Domestically Developed Space Technologies on Nuri Launch; Taiwan Mobile and Telkomsel Sign Satellite and HAPS Connectivity Agreements; and Vietnam Inaugurates Space Centre at Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park

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Financing & Investments

Capital deployment in the region is heavily concentrated on enabling infrastructure for AI and digital finance, with cross-border investments and large-scale debt financing playing a central role.

Australia-Singapore

Australia-based hyperscale data center operator AirTrunk has opened a new regional headquarters in Singapore at the Ocean Financial Centre. The office, located in a BCA Green Mark Platinum Super Low Energy building, will house senior executives and teams across design, development, operations, treasury, legal and corporate functions.

💡Since 2016, AirTrunk has committed several billion dollars in direct investment across three Singapore hyperscale data centers with a combined 180MW of information technology load.The company also secured a S$2.25 billion ($1.76 billion) green loan in 2025 to finance its second Singapore facility, SGP2, representing the country’s largest data center loan and green loan at the time.

Australia-Japan

AirTrunk has secured a JP¥191.6 billion ($1.24 billion) green loan to refinance and expand its TOK1 hyperscale data center campus in East Tokyo. The financing, the largest data center deal in Japan, will fund additional capacity at TOK1—scalable to over 300MW—to support growing cloud and artificial intelligence workloads.

💡The loan is structured under AirTrunk’s Green Financing Framework and was led by SMBC, MUFG, Crédit Agricole CIB, and Société Générale, with 12 banks acting as Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners.

Hong Kong-Vietnam

Hong Kong-based Accelerated Infrastructure Capital will co-develop a $2.1 billion AI data center in Ho Chi Minh City with KinhBac City Development Holding Corporation, a leading industrial real estate developer in Vietnam. The two parties signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology, with groundbreaking scheduled for April 30 and capital expected to be fully deployed by the end of the first quarter of 2027.

💡The first phase will feature a 50MW AI facility, equivalent to 28,000 GPUs, providing high-performance computing capacity for clients domestically and internationally.


Malaysia

Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad has issued a consultation paper seeking public feedback on proposed rule amendments to support the listing and trading of digital currency exchange-traded funds on the exchange. The move follows a revision by Securities Commission Malaysia to its ETF guidelines, which now allow digital currency ETFs to be offered under an enhanced regulatory framework. The products are designed to give investors regulated and transparent exposure to digital currencies through established capital market instruments.

💡The proposed amendments to the Main Market Listing Requirements and Bursa Malaysia Securities directives focus on strengthening disclosure and investor safeguards. Measures include requiring additional material information disclosures for digital currency ETFs in immediate announcements and annual reports, as well as a mandatory risk disclosure statement highlighting key risks that investors must acknowledge before investing.

Malaysia

CUSTA has raised approximately $4.3 million in a Pre-Series A round co-led by Delight Ventures and Global Brain. The funding will support platform development, key talent hiring, and marketing expansion to grow its customer base in Malaysia and Singapore.

💡The company targets the corporate gifting, events, and branding sector, addressing challenges such as unclear pricing, fragmented sourcing, and small-lot production difficulties. CUSTA is also advancing AI-driven operations across customer service, creative production, planning, and logistics to enhance speed, predictability, and scalability.

Singapore

Princeton Digital Group plans to raise up to $5 billion in debt financing to support its expanding hyperscale data center platform across Asia. The company operates in seven markets with a total portfolio exceeding 1.8 GW, and the financing will fund both contracted capacity and new campus development.

💡As part of this plan, PDG closed a $350 million debt tranche, expanding a $400 million HoldCo loan from May 2025 to a total $750 million facility. The consolidated facility has been converted into a sustainability-linked loan, with pricing tied to operational and sustainability performance targets. The $350 million tranche was secured from a consortium of global banks including Barclays, BNP Paribas, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, SMBC, Société Générale, and Standard Chartered.

Singapore

MetaComp Pte. Ltd. has completed its Pre-A+ funding round backed by Alibaba Group, bringing total capital raised to $35 million across two rounds in three months. The financing will support the development of MetaComp’s unified Web2.5 payments and wealth platform, which integrates stablecoin and fiat payment capabilities with securities and real-world asset token wealth management through its licensed affiliate Alpha Ladder Finance Pte. Ltd..

💡The funding round also included Spark Venture and other institutional investors, with 100Summit Partners as exclusive financial adviser. Capital will be used to expand the StableX Network across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, and to develop an Agent-Skills-MCP architecture supporting Web2.5 services.

Singapore

Empyrean Sky Partners has completed a $90 million first close for its $200 million Global Technology Fund, marking the fastest first close of 2026. The fund targets growth-stage companies at the intersection of artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced manufacturing, aiming to accelerate innovations that enhance industrial productivity and technology deployment. It is co-managed with Lion X Ventures, advised by OCBC, combining ESP’s investment experience with Lion X’s venture network to provide capital, operational support, and global market access for portfolio companies.

💡The fund has also formed a strategic partnership with Dreame Technology, allowing portfolio companies to leverage industrial insights, engineering experience, and commercialization capabilities.

Singapore

KAST has raised $80 million in a Series A funding round co-led by QED Investors and Left Lane Capital, with participation from returning investors including Peak XV Partners, HSG, and DST Global Partners. Founded in July 2024, KAST provides USD-denominated accounts and global pay-in and payout services to more than 190 countries, leveraging stablecoin rails rather than traditional settlement networks. Since launch, the platform has grown to over one million users and processes nearly $5 billion in annualized transaction volume, with projected revenue reaching a $100 million annual run rate in 2026.

💡The funding will support international expansion across Latin America, North America, and the Middle East, as well as product development, compliance, licensing, and headcount growth.

Taiwan

Taiwan-based Cooler Master has invested $200 million in Bac Ninh province, Vietnam, and plans to expand total investment to $3 billion. The initial 10-hectare project in Gia Binh Industrial Park, producing cooling devices for AI servers, data centers, and machine learning systems, began production in July 2025 with 1,300 workers and is expected to grow to 5,000 this year.

💡Bac Ninh is a major foreign investment hub in Vietnam, known for hosting Samsung’s production facilities.

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Environmental Sustainability

Sustainability initiatives are moving beyond pilot projects toward structured, cross-border programs and circular economy models that integrate financing, infrastructure, and corporate partnerships.

Australia

New research commissioned by Sydney Airport indicates strong public support in Australia for developing a domestic sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry. Australians see SAF production as a way to create regional jobs, support farmers, and retain local resources and manufacturing capacity.

💡Although awareness of SAF is low, support rises to 60% once the concept and benefits are explained.

Global

The International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) system has partnered with OMV and Airbus to advance the global SAF ecosystem, focusing on Book and Claim Chain-of-Custody models. The systems let sustainability attributes of SAF be claimed independently of physical fuel delivery, helping overcome infrastructure limits and expand market participation while maintaining credibility and transparency.

💡Under this pilot, Airbus will act as a facilitator in the ISCC Credit Transfer System, enabling transactions between airlines, corporate partners, and fuel producers.


India

Re Sustainability has signed an exclusive memorandum of understanding with Indian Oil Corporation Limited to launch India’s first structured national program for collecting and recycling used lubricating oil. The initiative will establish a dedicated SPV to create a nationwide reverse logistics network, aggregating oil from industrial and automotive sectors and producing Re-Refined Base Oil (RRBO) for reuse in lubricant manufacturing, reducing reliance on virgin crude-derived base oils.

💡The program targets annual collection of 100 KTA of used lubricants and the development of a re-refining facility with 50–100 KTA capacity for Group II+ RRBO. It will also cover the recovery and recycling of plastic lubricant containers under Extended Producer Responsibility regulations

Malaysia

Computility Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (CTDC), BGMC Energy Holdings Sdn Bhd, and reNIKOLA have signed a strategic term sheet to launch a long-term green energy supply program in Malaysia. Under the agreement, CTDC will power ZDATA’s first AI-focused data center in Gelang Patah using renewable energy from BGMC’s solar farms. Scheduled to begin in 2028, the program is expected to deliver around 630,000 MWh of clean energy annually, supporting Malaysia’s national energy transition and decarbonization of industrial infrastructure.

In addition, CTDC has eliminated its reliance on municipal water for cooling systems by implementing a proprietary water recycling loop, enhancing operational autonomy and reducing local water demand in Johor.

💡Together, the renewable energy initiative and water circularity measures position CTDC and its partners to deliver large-scale, environmentally sustainable digital and industrial infrastructure. All parties are now entering the implementation phase to meet the 2028 operational target.


Singapore-Indonesia

Equator Renewables Asia has raised S$50 million ($39.3 million) to develop large-scale solar, green hydrogen, and sustainable industrial zone projects in Indonesia. Strategic cornerstone investors KPN Corporation and Tsao Pao Chee contributed S$30 million, with the remainder funded by ERA’s management. The company has conditional approval from Singapore’s Energy Market Authority to import up to 400 MW of renewable power from Indonesia, supporting regional decarbonization efforts.

💡ERA’s Indonesian portfolio includes 2.2 GWp of solar photovoltaic capacity, 3.2 GWh of battery energy storage, and green hydrogen production initiatives.

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Aviation

The aviation sector is simultaneously navigating significant operational and regulatory challenges, from crew scheduling failures and fuel cost pressures to consumer class actions, while also investing in new technologies and local supply chain capabilities.

Australia

Qantas has agreed to a $105 million settlement in a class action lawsuit over COVID-era flight credits. The case, filed by Echo Law in August 2023 on behalf of hundreds of thousands of customers, alleged that passengers were entitled to cash refunds for flights cancelled between January 2020 and November 2022 but were instead issued restricted flight credits.

💡The settlement allows eligible customers to claim compensation in addition to any existing refund rights. Qantas stated the agreement includes no admission of liability and noted that, since August 2023, it has removed expiry dates on COVID-era flight credits, enabling customers to request cash refunds indefinitely.

Australia

A report from ACL Asia Pacific provides the first detailed analysis of aircraft slot utilisation at Sydney Airport three largest users—Qantas, Virgin, and Jetstar—hold 71% of total slots, recording utilisation rates of 94%, 96%, and 93%, respectively.

Airlines reported that unused slots were mainly due to commercial considerations (32%), operational issues (23%), maintenance or technical problems (20%), crew availability (9%), and weather (8%). Delays were primarily caused by late-arriving aircraft (41%), airline/network operations (11%), and aircraft defects or safety issues (10%).

💡ACL highlighted Sydney Airport as the only airport in its 79-airport global network to release slot utilisation data, reinforcing transparency in slot management. The next update, covering the full winter 2025 season, is expected in May.

Global

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is rolling out three AI initiatives to boost efficiency, safety, and innovation in air cargo. The first, an AI Subject Matter Expert (AI SME), lets operational teams query IATA publications in plain language, initially covering the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM).

IATA is also launching the Air Cargo AI Excellence Hub to promote collaboration on governance, compliance, and best practices among airlines, handlers, freight forwarders, technology providers, and regulators.

💡Additionally, the association is exploring AI to improve interline air cargo, helping airlines with different IT systems coordinate bookings, disruptions, and cancellations in real time.

India

IndiGo and its parent InterGlobe Aviation announced that CEO Pieter Elbers has resigned following a major operational failure in December 2025. The disruption, caused by the airline’s inability to adapt crew rosters to new Flight Duty Time Limitation rules, led to the cancellation of roughly 4,500 flights over 10 days and affected more than 300,000 passengers. In the interim, Managing Director Rahul Bhatia will oversee the airline until a permanent CEO is appointed.

💡The Directorate General of Civil Aviation found that Elbers had not acted in time to prevent the scheduling collapse and issued a show cause notice, while the airline was instructed to reduce its schedule by 10% and process outstanding passenger refunds.

India-France

Bharat Forge’s aerospace division has inaugurated a new landing gear components machining facility in Pune, India, in partnership with Liebherr-Aerospace. The facility, equipped with advanced machining centres for high-precision landing gear parts, makes Bharat Forge one of the first Indian companies with OEM-approved capabilities at scale, strengthening India’s role in global aerospace supply chains.

💡The facility complements Bharat Forge’s aerospace portfolio, which includes aero-engine components, airframe structures, and landing gear sub-systems for civil and military aviation. The company is also developing an advanced aerospace ring mill to produce high-value forged rings for engine programmes.

New Zealand

Air New Zealand plans to cancel roughly 1,100 flights through early May 2026, affecting an estimated 44,000 passengers, as it contends with high jet fuel costs amid ongoing Middle East energy disruptions. The cancellations, representing about 5% of the airline’s schedule, will impact both domestic and international routes, excluding New Zealand–United States flights. Passengers will be rebooked on alternative services, with priority given to same-day travel, and cuts will focus on off-peak flights while maintaining regional connectivity.

💡The airline cited soaring fuel prices driven by supply shocks from the US-Israeli conflict with Iran as the key factor behind the reduction.

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Advanced Air Mobility

The AAM industry is maturing from technology demonstration toward commercial scalability, marked by profitability milestones, cross-border infrastructure partnerships, and the development of national regulatory strategies and investment targets.

Brazil-Australia

Eve Air Mobility has partnered with Sydney-based Alt Air and Skyports Infrastructure to develop eVTOL operations across New South Wales and Queensland, Australia. The collaboration aims to create a sustainable Urban Air Mobility (UAM) ecosystem using existing airports, operating bases, and new vertiport locations, supporting passenger services, route planning, airspace integration, and ground operations.

💡The network will focus on linking key population centers, commercial districts, and tourism hubs, with early routes including Western Sydney International Airport to downtown Sydney.

China

EHang reported a strong finish to 2025, achieving its first GAAP profitable quarter in Q4 with net income of RMB10.5 million (US$1.5M) and record quarterly revenues of RMB243.8 million (US$34.9M), up 48.4% year-over-year. Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) soared 96.4% YoY to RMB71.5 million (US$10.2M).

The company delivered 100 eVTOL aircraft in the quarter, including 95 EH216-series and five VT35 units, while gross margins remained healthy at 62.1%. Operationally, EHang is preparing to launch commercial EH216-S services in Guangzhou and Hefei in March 2026, following successful internal trials and a landmark cross-province flight over the Qiongzhou Strait, while the VT35 completed its first public demonstration and is advancing through CAAC certification.

💡Management highlighted 2026 priorities including scaling EH216-S commercial operations, advancing VT35 certification, and expanding overseas markets, targeting total revenues of around RMB600 million (~18% YoY growth).

China-Türkiye

EHang has announced a strategic partnership with Türkiye’s leading telecom company, Türk Telekom, and its technology subsidiary Argela, to advance Advanced Air Mobility in Türkiye. Signed at Mobile World Congress 2026, the agreement integrates EHang’s certified EH216-S pilotless eVTOL aircraft with Argela’s Unmanned Traffic Management system and Türk Telekom’s 5G, IoT, cloud, and cybersecurity infrastructure, creating a framework for safe, digitally connected low-altitude operations.

💡The collaboration will support regulatory engagement, validate UTM integration, and accelerate commercial use cases including passenger mobility, aerial tourism, cargo transport, and medical deliveries


India

The World Economic Forum, in partnership with Deloitte, has released a new community paper, Activating Advanced Air Mobility in India: A 10-Step Strategy. The report highlights the potential of eVTOL aircraft and low-altitude technologies to complement existing transport, enhance regional connectivity, reduce congestion, and drive sustainable economic growth. It emphasizes AAM as a nation-building opportunity, focusing on broad societal impact rather than just urban, premium transport solutions.

The paper outlines a structured 10-step strategy covering regulatory alignment, sandbox testing, phased market activation, and infrastructure integration, anchored on five pillars: India-focused use cases, multimodal infrastructure, domestic R&D, safe airspace governance, and sustainable deployment.

💡It proposes a three-phase approach—pilot trials, operational evaluation, and commercialization—with priority actions including regulatory frameworks, vertiport development, public awareness, economic viability, and ecosystem capacity building


Japan

Japan has identified 61 products and technologies as priority investment targets under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s economic strategy to channel public and private capital into 17 strategic sectors. The list includes 27 early-stage technologies such as physical artificial intelligence systems, regenerative medicine, quantum computing, and marine drones.

💡Targets under discussion include capturing over 30% of the global AI robotics market and increasing domestic semiconductor sales to ¥40 trillion ($254 billion) by 2040.

USA-Japan

Japan’s SkyDrive has signed a Letter of Intent with Florida-based Aeroauto Global to establish a U.S. presence and purchase eight SD_05 eVTOL aircraft. Under the agreement, four aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2028 and four in 2029. SkyDrive has also extended its partnership with SAI Flight from South Carolina to Florida, creating a regional operational network to support Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) infrastructure and deployment.

💡The partnerships aim to integrate eVTOL operations with local governments, airports, and tourism hubs in Florida, leveraging Aeroauto’s infrastructure and SAI Flight’s operational base. SkyDrive plans to use the cluster to facilitate service introduction in 2028 and accelerate adoption of eVTOL transportation across the U.S. Southeast, combining aircraft innovation with regional sales, vertiport development, and collaborative mobility initiatives.

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Marine

The marine sector is characterized by strategic financial maneuvers—including stake-building and contract awards—alongside the development of new social and regulatory frameworks for worker protection and risk management in global shipping and energy logistics.

Bangladesh

The International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with BIMCO, has launched a pilot Employment Injury Scheme (EIS) to improve protections for workers at ship recycling yards in Bangladesh, the world’s largest ship recycling nation.

The scheme functions as social insurance: by paying $0.5 per light displacement tonnage through a BIMCO letter of intent, ship sellers ensure that workers and their families receive timely compensation for permanent injury or death, aligned with international labour standards. Contributions apply to facilities meeting the Hong Kong International Convention’s safety and environmental standards.

💡Operating voluntarily, the EIS is a temporary measure as Bangladesh transitions from its employer-liability system to a mandatory national, wage-based employment injury insurance scheme, expected in July 2027. The pilot draws on a successful model from Bangladesh’s Ready-Made Garment sector, covering millions of workers.


Singapore

Singapore-based liner Ocean Network Express (ONE) is boosting its stake in Poseidon Acquisition Corp, the holding company of boxship lessor Seaspan, from 28.7% to 48.9%. The move strengthens ONE’s access to long-term vessel supply and aligns with its “ONE 2030” strategy of growth through container shipping investments, building on the 2023 take-private of Seaspan’s parent, Atlas Corp.

💡Meanwhile, Chinese shipbuilder Yangzijiang Shipbuilding is joining Poseidon’s shareholder base, acquiring a 10% stake worth $825.7m from Fairfax Financial and the Washington family, with an additional 5% purchased via its chairman’s private vehicle.

Singapore

Singapore’s offshore wind sector is set for growth, with rising demand for engineers, especially in floater design, as deeper-water projects expand. Floating platforms, now just 1–2% of capacity, could reach 15% in a decade. The Marine and Offshore Energy Industry Plan aims to create 1,000 roles by 2030, focusing on turbine installation, cable-laying, and operations and maintenance positions.

💡Emerging roles include project managers, hydrogen specialists, digital twin engineers, and sustainability officers, while companies like Seatrium recruit for robotics, UX, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Key skills span turbine systems, high-voltage work, carbon accounting, and renewable integration, with training available through SkillsFuture, NTU, Singapore Polytechnic, and the Maritime and Port Authority to prepare the workforce for this sector expansion.

Singapore-Turkiye

Shipyard group Seatrium has secured a contract from Turkiye’s Karpowership to convert a new LNG carrier into a high-capacity FSRU, LNGT Karadeniz, with regasification capacity up to 600 mmscfd. The project, set to start in Q3 2026, includes installing a regasification module, spread-mooring system, and integrating cargo handling, LNG offloading, utilities, electrical distribution, and advanced automation systems.

💡The contract also covers life extension and repairs for three additional LNGCs and integration of four new-generation powerships, with options for two more.

US-Global

The US Treasury has issued a one‑month OFAC wind‑down licence allowing Russian crude already at sea to complete voyages, easing disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Valid through April 11, the licence covers routine voyage services—including bunkering, crewing, insurance, and piloting—ensuring cargoes already loaded can legally reach buyers. Brokers estimate India could receive about 65 million barrels previously off‑limits, enough to offset roughly 23 days of lost Middle East crude.

💡Vortexa tracking shows 8 million barrels in transit have been rerouted to India, 49 million lifted pre‑March 5 remain candidates for discharge there, and 7.6 million sit in floating storage in East Asia.

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Space

Space activity is diversifying beyond government-led exploration to include commercial experimentation and novel manufacturing, while nations across the region invest in domestic technology verification, infrastructure, and connectivity solutions to build sovereign capabilities.

China

China is planning a series of deep-space exploration missions, according to Sun Zezhou, a National People’s Congress deputy and researcher at the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. The Tianwen-2 mission is currently underway, targeting near-Earth asteroids to collect samples and return them to Earth.

💡Looking ahead, the Tianwen-3 mission is expected to retrieve samples from Mars, while Tianwen-4 will focus on exploring Jupiter. Sun also emphasized that China intends to maintain opportunities for international cooperation, including the potential inclusion of international payloads on future missions.

Japan

Japanese sake producer Asahi Shuzō’s premium brand Dassai has received a fermentation sample brewed aboard the International Space Station (ISS), marking what is believed to be the first attempt to produce sake in space.

The ingredients and brewing equipment were sent to orbit on the HTV-X1 cargo spacecraft launched in October, with the fermentation process carried out in the ISS’s Japanese experimental module with assistance from astronauts. The returned sample arrived in Japan earlier this month for further processing, with the company expecting to extract about 100 ml of sake.

💡Dassai has offered the limited batch through pre-orders priced at about ¥100 million, with proceeds planned for donation to Japan’s space development efforts. The project explores how fermentation behaves in microgravity, as sake production—relying on rice, koji mold, and water—is highly sensitive to environmental conditions.

South Korea

South Korea will test a range of domestically developed space technologies aboard the sixth launch of its Korea Space Launch Vehicle Nuri, scheduled for 2027. 15 devices and components produced by industry, universities and research institutes have been selected to fly on Space Verification Satellite No. 3, a CubeSat platform designed to test hardware in orbit.

💡The payloads include semiconductors, sensors, batteries and other components developed by organisations such as LG Electronics, SK hynix, the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute, and Korea University. The mission aims to help Korean technologies gain “space heritage,” a key requirement for adoption in satellites and launch systems, as components used in orbit are strongly preferred due to the difficulty of repairing spacecraft once deployed.


Taiwan

Taiwan Mobile and Telkomsel have signed agreements with aerospace partners to expand connectivity in remote regions using satellite and high-altitude technologies. Taiwan Mobile will collaborate with AST SpaceMobile to develop direct-to-cell services via low-Earth orbit satellites, allowing standard smartphones to connect directly to space-based networks. The system will integrate with Taiwan Mobile’s terrestrial infrastructure to strengthen coverage and improve network resilience during natural disasters.

💡Separately, Telkomsel has partnered with AALTO HAPS, a subsidiary of Airbus, to explore connectivity using the solar-powered Zephyr High Altitude Platform Station. Demonstration flights are planned for 2027, with commercial services targeted from 2028 to help extend connectivity across Indonesia’s remote areas.


Vietnam

Vietnam has inaugurated the Vietnam Space Centre (VNSC) at Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park in Hanoi, marking a major step in the country’s space development and its cooperation with Japan. Speaking at the Viet Nam–Japan Space Horizons 2026 Forum, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said Vietnam’s space ambitions will focus on innovation, international collaboration and expanding practical applications of satellite technology.

💡Vietnam has gradually expanded its capabilities through projects such as VINASAT-1, VINASAT-2, PicoDragon, MicroDragon, and NanoDragon, while the radar observation satellite LOTUSat-1 is expected to launch by 2027. The new centre, developed with Japanese support and an investment of more than $266 million, will serve as a hub for satellite research, testing, operations and data analysis.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: Fasanara and IFC Launch Lending Strategy for Emerging Market MSMEs; Europe-India Strategic Engagement Post-FTA; IFC Provides US$350 Million to Expand Indonesian Broadband; Gobi Partners Invests in Biotech Firm Cortical Labs; Singapore AI Firm Dyna.Ai Secures Eight-Figure Series A; Kids’ Tech Brand myFirst Raises Over US$8 Million; South Korea and Singapore Agree to Upgrade FTA; and The Invention Lab Leads Seed Investment in AI Startup RIDM.

Environmental Sustainability: Australia and Canada Formalize Clean Energy Partnership; IPSASB Releases First Climate Disclosure Standard for Public Sector; MAS Issues Guidelines on Environmental Risk Management; South Korea Proposes Mandatory ISSB-Aligned Sustainability Reporting; Stanford and Korea University Launch Water Sustainability Index; and Green SM Launches All-Electric Taxi Service in Bali.

Aviation: Passenger Behavior, Not Traffic, Now Drives Airport Retail Performance; Hong Kong International Airport Conducts Annual Crash and Rescue Exercise; Bengaluru and Frankfurt Airports Partner to Boost Cargo Connectivity; Auckland Airport Activates Industrial-Scale Heat Pumps in Terminal; and Queenstown Airport Community Fund Opens 2026 Application Round.

Advanced Air Mobility: EHang to Release Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results; ePlane Company Partners with HENSOLDT for eVTOL Avionics Integration; SkyDrive Completes Public eVTOL Demonstration Flights in Tokyo; Aonic Secures US$10 Million in Series A Funding; and Skyports Deploys Vertiport Automation System for SkyDrive Tokyo Demonstration.

Marine: GMS Calls on EU to Approve Indian Ship Recycling Yards; NYK and JMU Sign Tanker Contract with Real-Sea Performance Guarantee; Consortium Forms to Study Green Hydrogen Production in New Zealand; MISC Exercises Options for Two Additional LNG Carriers; Velesto Workover Secures Shell Contracts for Offshore Sabah; Philippines Launches Fifth Green Energy Auction for Offshore Wind; Bridge Data Centers and Concord New Energy to Develop Barge-Based Hydrogen; and Hanwha Ocean Awarded Contract for Leviathan Field Expansion Modules.

Space: Campaign Urges Australian Government to Partner with ESA for Astronaut Mission; China Designates Aerospace as “Emerging Pillar Industry” and Outlines Lunar Ambitions; ESA and Chinese Academy Both Achieve Gigabit Laser Links to Geostationary Satellites; Space One’s Kairos Rocket Fails for Third Consecutive Time; and Maritime Launch Services and INNOSPACE Sign Letter of Intent for HANBIT Launches from Nova Scotia.

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Financing & Investments

Development finance and venture capital are flowing across Asia-Pacific into digital infrastructure, AI computing, and children’s technology, supported by bilateral government agreements unlocking cross-border innovation funding.

Global

Fasanara Capital and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) are launching a lending strategy to channel financing to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in emerging markets, with a focus on women-led businesses. The initiative will support fintech lenders by investing in trade receivables and digital invoices, enabling them to scale lending to address the estimated US$5.7 trillion global financing gap that disproportionately affects women entrepreneurs.

💡The partnership combines Fasanara’s technology-enabled credit capabilities with IFC’s development resources to increase affordable financing flows to MSMEs. The strategy aims to demonstrate private credit as a viable asset class in emerging markets, attract additional investment, and strengthen digital lending ecosystems while supporting job creation.

India-EU

Dezan Shira & Associates notes that since the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement concluded in January, European diplomatic and commercial engagement with India has intensified across multiple sectors. Adani Ports signed a cooperation agreement with Port of Marseille Fos to strengthen maritime connectivity, while Indian and French officials advanced defense cooperation including helicopter assembly and missile production.

💡European policymakers increasingly view India as a strategic partner for supply chain diversification, industrial co-production, and regulatory alignment in digital infrastructure. The convergence of trade frameworks, port connectivity, defense industrial integration, and technology standards indicates structural alignment between India and Europe beyond trade liberalization.


Indonesia

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is providing a financing package of up to US$350 million to PT Link Net Tbk (Linknet) to support the expansion of high-speed fixed broadband infrastructure across Indonesia. The package includes a US$200 million IFC own-account loan and US$150 million mobilized from the Asian Development Bank, representing IFC’s first investment in the country’s fixed broadband sector.

💡The funding will support network rollout in underserved secondary and tertiary cities and facilitate the transition from older copper-based connections to more energy-efficient fiber networks.

Malaysia

Gobi Partners, through its Malaysia-based Dana Impak Ventures fund, has invested in Cortical Labs, a biotechnology company developing computing systems that combine living human neurons with silicon hardware. The funding round included participation from Horizon Ventures, 3C, and Synchron founder Tom Oxley, supporting Cortical Labs’ expansion into semiconductor engineering and chip design from new operations in Malaysia.

💡Cortical Labs’ CL1 platform enables real-time experiments on laboratory-grown neural networks for applications in drug discovery and as a potential alternative to traditional AI computing. The company’s establishment of manufacturing and engineering operations at SIDEC’s IC Design Park in Puchong is expected to create roles in neuroscience, chip design, and computational biology.


Singapore

Singapore-based artificial intelligence solutions company Dyna.Ai has secured an eight-figure multimillion-dollar Series A funding round. The investment was led by Singaporean venture capital fund Lion X Ventures, with participation from Taiwan-listed technology firm ADATA, a Korean financial institution, and a group of finance industry veterans.

💡The funding will be used to accelerate the deployment of the company’s Agentic AI solutions, which are designed to help enterprises transition artificial intelligence pilots into fully operational systems that deliver measurable business results.

Singapore

Singapore-based kids’ technology brand myFirst has raised over US$8 million in a Series A funding round led by Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India. The company will use the funding to deepen its KidsTech ecosystem, which integrates devices, connected services, and a secure social platform designed for children’s first digital experiences across communication, creativity, and self-expression. MyFirst will also expand into North Asia, the Middle East, the United States, and Europe through retail and telco partnerships with retailers including Walmart and Best Buy.

💡MyFirst’s ecosystem includes the myFirst Fone watchphone, which enables calling and messaging with GPS safety features, and myFirst Circle, a closed, ad-free social network requiring parental approval for contacts. The platform is designed as an alternative to adult-focused applications, providing age-appropriate technology for children. The company reports its products are used by more than one million families across 60 countries.

Singapore-South Korea

South Korea and Singapore have agreed to begin negotiations to upgrade their bilateral free trade agreement and deepen cooperation in nuclear energy, including small modular reactors. The decision followed summit talks between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marking their second meeting since elevating ties to a strategic partnership. Five memorandums of understanding were signed covering artificial intelligence, small modular reactors, and digital and science and technology cooperation.

💡Lee announced plans to establish a US$300 million global fund in Singapore by 2030 to support joint AI ventures and pledged cross-border joint research starting in 2026.

South Korea-Singapore

South Korea-based venture capital firm The Invention Lab has completed a seed investment in Singaporean AI computing startup RIDM, made jointly with London-based quant investment firm Qube Research & Technologies (QRT). RIDM has developed a computing architecture called DODA (Dynamically Orchestrated Dataflow Architecture) designed to address memory bottlenecks in AI and high-performance computing environments. The technology is based on research conducted at the National University of Singapore and is protected by three international patents.

💡RIDM is conducting a proof of concept in collaboration with QRT, focusing on FPGA development and acceleration utilizing its architecture. The company was founded by engineers from NUS and has secured an exclusive license for a patent held by the university. RIDM plans to pursue strategic collaborations with global companies based on technology verification results.

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Environmental Sustainability

Governments and standard-setters are accelerating climate disclosure mandates and cross-border energy partnerships, with new public sector reporting rules from IPSASB, enhanced supervisory guidance from MAS, and proposed mandatory ISSB-aligned disclosures in South Korea, alongside bilateral clean energy agreements and corporate sustainability initiatives across the Asia-Pacific.

Australia-Canada

Australia and Canada have formalized a Clean Energy Partnership to collaborate on climate action and the transition to net zero emissions. The partnership, signed by Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen and Canada’s High Commissioner to Australia H.E. Dr Julie Sunday, reaffirms commitment to the Paris Agreement and focuses on five key areas: trade, investment, standards and supply chains; grid modernization and resilience; energy and hard-to-abate sectors; Indigenous engagement; and climate change adaptation.

💡The two countries will work through Canada’s Department of Natural Resources to deliver on the partnership’s goals.

Global

The International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) has released IPSASB SRS 1, Climate-related Disclosures, the first sustainability reporting standard designed specifically for governments and public sector entities.The standard requires public sector entities to disclose material climate-related risks and opportunities within their general purpose financial reports, aligning with the IFRS S2 framework to enhance consistency and comparability across public and private disclosures. The standard applies to reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2028, with earlier adoption permitted.

The framework addresses growing demand from capital markets, multilateral lenders, and citizens for transparent information on how climate change affects public finances, infrastructure, and long-term fiscal resilience. Developed with support from the World Bank, the standard reflects increasing recognition that climate exposure is a determinant of sovereign creditworthiness and fiscal sustainability.

💡By extending familiar disclosure concepts including governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics into the public sector context, the standard positions climate reporting as a core element of public financial management and aims to enable efficient access to capital markets for climate resilience financing


Singapore

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has issued three guidelines on environmental risk management, setting out supervisory expectations for banks, insurers, and asset managers to address climate-related transition and physical risks. The guidelines, which add to those published in 2020, require financial institutions to assess and manage these risks by adapting business models, governance, and risk practices in a forward-looking manner.

💡MAS expects financial institutions to engage customers and investee companies on climate-related risks to avoid indiscriminate withdrawal of credit, coverage, or investments, supporting broader financial stability. Institutions should also keep pace with developments in climate risk measurement and management. The guidelines, developed separately for each sector based on business models and industry feedback, will take effect in September 2027 after an 18-month transition period.

South Korea

South Korea’s Financial Services Commission (FSC) has released a draft roadmap proposing mandatory sustainability reporting for major KOSPI-listed companies beginning in 2028, based on 2027 fiscal year data. The reporting framework would align with International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) guidelines through newly finalized Korean Sustainability Standards Board (KSSB) rules, including KSSB 1 on general sustainability requirements and KSSB 2 on climate disclosures, which correspond to IFRS S1 and IFRS S2.

Under the phased implementation timeline, companies with consolidated assets exceeding KRW 30 trillion (US$20.4 billion) would be required to report first, followed by firms with assets above KRW 10 trillion (US$6.8 billion) in 2029. Scope 3 emissions reporting would be mandatory from 2030 onward, providing extended transition relief beyond the ISSB’s initial one-year accommodation. Third-party assurance would initially remain voluntary, with mandatory assurance to be considered later based on global trends and reporting system maturity.

💡The FSC is seeking market feedback until March 31, 2026, before finalizing the roadmap in April 2026.

South Korea-USA

A research collaboration led by Stanford University and Korea University has introduced the Water Sustainability Index (WSI), a quantitative framework designed to standardize corporate water performance reporting and reduce greenwashing risk in ESG disclosures.

The index, detailed in a study published in Nature Water, evaluates water withdrawals, consumption, discharge quality, and reuse while incorporating local watershed stress conditions. The framework aims to address current gaps in water reporting, where fragmented metrics and qualitative narratives limit comparability, unlike the growing precision of carbon emissions tracking.

💡The WSI integrates watershed stress into performance scoring, recognizing that water sustainability implications vary by local conditions. Researchers tested seven scenarios demonstrating the index’s application, with scores improving through reuse practices, optimized siting, and enhanced water quality controls. The framework is designed to guide investment decisions, support capital allocation, and align corporate reporting with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation.


Vietnam-Indonesia

Green SM, the ride-hailing arm of Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup, has launched an all-electric taxi service in Bali through a partnership with Taksi Komotra. Under the agreement, Green SM provides the technology platform, electric vehicle fleet, operational standards, and driver development system, while Taksi Komotra contributes local expertise and network coverage across the island.

💡The service operates under Green SM’s “5 Green Promises” framework, encompassing customer experience, professional drivers, vehicle quality, transparent pricing, and environmental sustainability.

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Aviation

Airport commercial strategy is shifting from traffic volumes to passenger demographics, with younger travelers and specific nationalities driving luxury spending, while infrastructure investments continue in decarbonization, cargo connectivity, and operational resilience testing across the region.

Asia-Pacific & Middle East

Passenger behavior and demographics, not traffic volumes, now drive airport retail performance, according to a study by the Airports Council International Asia-Pacific & Middle East. Based on data from 36 major airports, the study finds 56 percent of respondents report commercial revenues exceeding 2019 levels, with 44 percent expecting higher revenue per passenger in the next 12 months. Perfume and cosmetics rank as the strongest-performing category, while Gen Z and Millennials spend 3.5 times more than older generations.

💡Nationals from China, India, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia are the biggest spenders, with Chinese luxury spending twice the Asia-Pacific average. Duty-free sales account for 31 to 38 percent of retail revenue across Middle East airports. About 70 percent of purchases remain impulse-driven, with product choice and pricing accounting for nearly 70 percent of purchase motivation. While 65 percent of Gen Z travelers would pay more for sustainable products, only 20 percent of airports view sustainability as a core factor in retail decisions.

Hong Kong
Hong Kong International Airport conducted its annual aircraft crash and rescue, simulating an incident involving a departing flight. The scenario involved an aborted takeoff due to cabin smoke from a power bank, causing a tire burst, runway veer, landing gear collapse, and fire. Over 1,000 representatives from approximately 20 organisations and government departments participated, with Greater Bay Airlines as the operating carrier and more than 400 volunteers role-playing as passengers and affected family members.

💡A simulated joint press conference was also conducted involving the Airport Authority, Air Accident Investigation Authority, airline, fire services, and police. The exercise was conducted to meet aerodrome licensing requirements as part of regular emergency preparedness testing under the three-runway system operation.


India-Europe

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to enhance cargo connectivity between South India and Europe. The agreement, signed during Air Cargo India, aims to establish a structured framework focused on joint trade lane analytics, digital corridor development, pharma integrity standards, and knowledge exchange to improve visibility, reduce dwell times, and deliver more predictable service levels for cargo stakeholders.

💡The partnership connects BLR Airport, serving one of India’s fastest-growing manufacturing and export regions, with Frankfurt Airport, a major European cargo hub. The collaboration aligns with the recently concluded EU-India Free Trade Agreement, expected to unlock new momentum for bilateral trade and air cargo flows. The initiative supports BLR Airport’s investments in cargo infrastructure and technology while forming part of Frankfurt Airport’s CargoHub Masterplan to actively shape international air cargo traffic.


New Zealand

Auckland Airport has activated a fleet of 11 industrial-scale heat pumps in its international terminal, replacing one of New Zealand’s largest gas-fired air conditioning plants that had operated for over 50 years.

The new electric system, among the largest installations of its kind in the country, is expected to reduce natural gas use by approximately 40 percent while maintaining climate control for the 30,000 daily passengers traversing the 141,000-square-meter terminal. Each unit, roughly the size of a shipping container, delivers up to 600kW of heating or cooling, about 100 times the output of a typical residential unit.

💡The installation was staged over five weeks to avoid disrupting terminal operations, with the heat pumps craned up to 30 meters onto the roof. The technology was trialed for 18 months in 2023 before full deployment


New Zealand

The Queenstown Airport (ZQN) Community Fund has opened its 2026 funding round, inviting applications from community organisations in the Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago districts. Applications will be accepted from March 2 to April 7, 2026, with grants ranging from NZ$1,000 to NZ$5,000 available for projects supporting community wellbeing, youth, environmental sustainability, and resilience.

💡The fund, delivered in partnership with the 45South Community Foundation, has a total of NZ$50,000 to distribute. Priority will be given to initiatives that respond to local needs and demonstrate clear community impact.

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Advanced Air Mobility

The eVTOL sector is transitioning from concept to certification through strategic avionics partnerships, public demonstration flights in urban centers, and ground infrastructure deployments, supported by continued venture capital funding and financial reporting milestones that signal maturing commercial timelines.

China

EHang Holdings Limited will release its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, on March 12, 2026, before U.S. market open. The company’s management team will host an earnings conference call at 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time that same day, corresponding to 8:00 p.m. Beijing/Hong Kong Time.

💡Participants must complete an online registration process to receive dial-in information and a personal PIN for telephone access to the call.

India-Germany

The ePlane Company has entered into a strategic partnership with German avionics manufacturer HENSOLDT to supply and integrate advanced navigation and mission management systems for its e200X eVTOL aircraft. The collaboration marks the Chennai-based company’s transition from subscale prototypes to full-scale, certifiable aircraft equipped with aviation-grade systems for urban air mobility operations.

The integration will equip the e200X with digital moving maps, visual landing aids for rooftop helipads, collision avoidance antennas, and secure datalink connectivity for real-time ground communication. These systems are designed to provide enhanced situational awareness during take-off and landing in dense urban environments.

💡The avionics integration supports the aircraft’s certification programme under India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation following the internal design freeze of its avionics architecture.

Japan

Japan’s SkyDrive has completed a series of public demonstration flights of its SKYDRIVE (Model SD-05) in Tokyo, marking the first public flights of the company’s aircraft in the city. The five-day demonstration program, conducted from February 24 to 28, at the Tokyo Big Sight exhibition venue, was organized in collaboration with Mitsubishi Estate and Kanematsu Corporation as part of a Tokyo Metropolitan Government project to develop business models for eVTOL services.

💡The flights evaluated integrated ground and flight operations required for future commercialization, including pre-flight preparation, departure, cruising, landing, and aircraft return procedures. The demonstration included a passenger terminal where members of the public tested pre-boarding procedures such as facial recognition-enabled check-in and security screening, with feedback collected to inform future operations

Malaysia

Aonic, a Malaysia-founded drone technology company, has secured US$10 million in Series A funding led by Kairous Capital, with backing from Malaysia’s National Fund-of-Funds through its Emerging Fund Managers’ Program.

💡The investment will advance regional and international expansion, deepen research and development, and scale the company’s in-house manufactured drones, software, and services.

UK-Japan

Skyports Infrastructure deployed its Vertiport Automation System (VAS) during a five-day series of eVTOL aircraft flight demonstrations conducted by SkyDrive over Tokyo Bay from February 24 to 28. The VAS provided the technical foundation for ground and flight operations, integrating with SkyDrive’s aircraft to monitor surrounding airspace, manage weather data and situational awareness, allocate landing and take-off slots, and digitally manage ground equipment.

💡Skyports also operated a temporary passenger terminal integrated with the system, featuring facial recognition check-in, security screening, flight information displays, and boarding guidance designed for minimal dwell time. The operations room provided a holistic view of ground and flight operations, airspace monitoring, and passenger status throughout the demonstrations.

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Marine

The maritime sector is advancing decarbonization through green hydrogen corridor studies, LNG carrier expansions, and offshore wind auctions, while shipbuilding innovation includes real-sea performance guarantees and regulatory pressure mounts for inclusion of Indian recycling yards in the EU list.

India-EU

GMS, the world’s largest cash buyer of ships for recycling, has called on the European Commission to approve qualified Indian ship recycling yards for inclusion on the European List under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation. More than 110 Indian yards hold Hong Kong Convention Statements of Compliance, but after a decade, 35 applications, and at least 10 Commission inspections, no Indian facility has been approved.

💡India has dismantled over 8,500 vessels in 40 years, recovering more than 67 million tonnes of steel. Alang alone can recycle 4.5 million light displacement tonnes annually, exceeding the capacity of all EU-approved yards combined. GMS analysis shows recycling steel at Alang emits 58 percent less CO₂ than producing virgin steel, with over 98 percent of materials recovered.


Japan

Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) and shipbuilder Japan Marine United (JMU) have signed a contract for a next-generation crude oil tanker that includes a performance guarantee based on real ocean conditions rather than conventional calm‑sea trials. The agreement incorporates an actual sea performance guarantee clause and an incentive mechanism sharing benefits between owner and yard based on achievement levels.

💡The partners began collaborating in September 2020 to develop methods for estimating hull performance in realistic weather and routing. They previously included actual‑sea guarantees in contracts for two tankers, with joint verification showing minimal differences between guaranteed speed/power curves and measured outcomes. For the new tanker, NYK and JMU will conduct joint verification during the first operational year to validate performance and refine future design models.


Japan-New Zealand

A consortium comprising Mitsui OSK Lines, Obayashi, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and Chiyoda has formed to study commercial production of green hydrogen in New Zealand and export logistics to Japan. Feasibility work will begin in fiscal 2026, with imports targeted for the early 2030s.

💡The consortium will map supply-chain requirements, production hubs, export terminals, and shipping operations needed for large-scale hydrogen delivery. The project aims to advance Japan’s decarbonisation across mobility, industry, and power generation while creating a new export industry for New Zealand. Practical work will assess electrolyser siting, renewable supply guarantees, carrier options, and commercial frameworks for long-term stable deliveries.


Malaysia

Malaysian shipping firm MISC has exercised options for two additional liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers at China’s Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding. The new vessels, each with a capacity of 174,000 cubic meters, will be chartered to Malaysia’s national oil company Petronas under 20-year contracts, with deliveries scheduled for 2029 and 2030.

💡The long-term charter agreement initially covered three newbuildings contracted at Hudong-Zhonghua with options for three additional ships. MISC confirmed in a stock exchange filing that two more vessels will now be included under the same agreement. According to earlier yard disclosures, exercising all options would bring the total series to 10 vessels.

Malaysia

Velesto Workover, a subsidiary of Malaysia’s Velesto Energy, has secured two contracts from Sabah Shell Petroleum Company to support deepwater operations offshore Sabah. The multi-year agreements cover comprehensive maintenance services for top tension risers at Shell’s tension leg platform, to be delivered in partnership with INVX Asia Pacific.

💡The contracts expand Velesto’s integrated maintenance and engineering offerings within the upstream energy sector.


Philippines

The Philippine Department of Energy has launched the fifth round of its Green Energy Auction, offering 3.3 gigawatts of fixed-bottom offshore wind capacity. Registration for developers opened on March 2, with qualified bidders to be announced on July 3 and winning bidders named on September 22. The auction sets a reserve price cap of 11 Philippine pesos (US$0.19) per kilowatt-hour for projects scheduled to begin commercial operation between 2028 and 2030.

The auction marks the country’s first offshore wind procurement under new government policies aimed at streamlining permitting and infrastructure development. The round was delayed from its original schedule to address port availability and transmission network capacity for absorbing intermittent offshore power.

Singapore

Bridge Data Centers (BDC) and Concord New Energy (CNE) have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen power generation solution for AI digital infrastructure. The partnership aims to diversify power sourcing and enhance energy security for BDC’s Singapore data center portfolio amid grid constraints and decarbonization targets. The collaboration will include Nanyang Technological University to support hydrogen ecosystem development.

💡The barge-based configuration offers advantages for Singapore’s land-constrained environment through offshore or nearshore deployment, safety segregation between hydrogen handling and data center operations, and integration with the maritime ecosystem for fuel transport and storage. The parties will also develop scalable hydrogen supply chain frameworks and assess customized power procurement structures including renewable power purchase agreements.

South Korea-Israel

Hanwha Ocean has been awarded a contract by Chevron to fabricate expansion modules for the Leviathan natural gas field offshore Israel. The project involves constructing additional modules for integration into the existing production platform to increase field output. Hanwha Ocean has supported Chevron on project development since the third quarter of 2024, providing constructability input.

💡The Leviathan expansion project, which reached a final investment decision in mid-January, includes drilling three additional offshore wells, adding subsea infrastructure, and enhancing platform treatment facilities. The project is expected to come online near the end of the decade to meet growing energy demand in local and regional markets. Chevron operates the field with a 39.66 percent stake, alongside partners NewMed Energy and Ratio Energies.

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Space

Australia

A public and industry-led campaign urging the Australian government to partner with the European Space Agency (ESA) to send Australian of the Year and ESA-trained astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg on a space mission has received support from New South Wales Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong. The campaign follows a formal offer with a four-week deadline extended to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese by the head of ESA for a cooperative agreement on a flight.

💡The campaign positions an ESA-Australian mission as aligning with government priorities in sovereign capability, productivity, advanced manufacturing, and international partnerships, warning that rejecting the offer would forfeit a generational opportunity as ESA flight opportunities narrow with the International Space Station’s planned 2030 deorbit.

China

China has designated aerospace as an “emerging pillar industry” in a draft national economic plan, positioning it alongside integrated circuits, biomedicine, and the low-altitude economy as priority sectors for policy support and state financing. The designation appeared in the government work report delivered by Premier Li Qiang at the National People’s Congress opening on March 5, signaling Beijing’s intent to expand the space sector beyond strategic programs toward a broader industrial ecosystem including launch services, satellites, and data applications.

A draft of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) outlines space objectives including planetary exploration, near-Earth asteroid defense, and solar system boundary missions. The plan also calls for reusable heavy-lift launch vehicles, an international lunar research station, and a crewed lunar landing before 2030.

💡Additional goals include advancing satellite internet, building an integrated communication-navigation-sensing-computing system, and developing commercial space capabilities such as space-based computing and reusable launchers.

China and EU

The European Space Agency (ESA) and China’s Academy of Sciences Institute of Optoelectronics have both achieved gigabit-per-second laser links to satellites in geostationary orbit.

ESA announced on February 26 that an Airbus terminal maintained an error-free connection at 2.6 Gbps for several minutes to the Alphasat TDP 1 satellite 36,000 kilometers above Earth. The Institute reported establishing a 1 Gbps symmetrical link to an unnamed satellite 40,000 kilometers away, holding the connection for three hours using a 1.8-meter ground station with high-precision tracking and adaptive optics to correct atmospheric distortion.

💡The technology enables high-bandwidth communication with geostationary satellites, which are too distant for conventional radio links at comparable speeds. The Institute noted the capability could transform satellites from data relay stations into intelligent processing hubs by allowing upload of complex instructions. The advances address technical challenges including platform vibrations, atmospheric disturbances, and precise pointing requirements at extreme distances.

Japan

Space One’s Kairos rocket failed for the third consecutive time on March 5,, during a launch from the company’s Spaceport Kii in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. The rocket lifted off at 11:10 a.m. local time, but the company determined mission success was difficult approximately two minutes into flight and implemented flight termination measures. Five small spacecraft were lost that were scheduled for deployment about 50 minutes after launch.

💡The third failure follows two previous Kairos launch attempts in March 2024 and December 2024, both of which were terminated early. Space One stated it will provide details on the cause of the latest failure when available.

South Korea-Canada

Maritime Launch Services (MLS) and South Korean rocket developer INNOSPACE have signed a letter of intent to evaluate hosting the HANBIT launch system at Spaceport Nova Scotia in Canada. The agreement would provide INNOSPACE with North American launch access, addressing capacity constraints and trajectory limitations at South Korea’s government-owned Naro Space Center, where launches are restricted to southward trajectories to avoid overflying neighboring countries.

💡INNOSPACE’s HANBIT rocket family uses hybrid engines designed to reduce launch costs and improve ground safety. For MLS, the partnership would secure a commercial launch provider for its Canso site, positioning it as a North American hub for small satellite launches.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Join us as we navigate through the latest roundup to uncover key developments across the region.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

Summary

Financing & Investments: Peak XV Raises $1.3B in New Capital Commitments; World Bank Group Funds Digital Infrastructure via Investment in Zetrix AI Berhad; VentureTECH Sdn Bhd Invests in Cybersecurity and Connectivity with Delta Spike and IX Telecom; ICON1C Raises S$10M for Growth and M&A; DBS Bank and Granite Asia Launch $110M AI IPO Fund; The Invention Lab and Qube Research & Technologies Invest in RIDM; and Unity Software Explores Sale of China Unit

Environmental Sustainability: Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility Wins Greenwashing Case; Santos Limited Claims Not Misleading; Envision Ships First Commercial Green Ammonia; ASCI Launches Greenwashing Awareness Campaign; Tata Motors to Deploy Hydrogen Trucks at V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority; Indonesia Freezes Environmental Permits; Earth Journalism Network Funds Climate Reporting; and IFC Invests in Seraya Partners Fund

Aviation: Middle East Airspace Closures Disrupt Aviation; Works Begin on Melbourne Airport Rail Link; DGCA Grounds VSR Aviation Learjets; AirAsia MOVE Reports Strong Growth; Teleport Expands Logistics Operations; StateSquare Capital to Acquire Advanced Integrated Manufacturing Corp. Pte Ltd; and Singapore Airlines Supports Air India Transformation

Advanced Air Mobility: AutoFlight Partners with Yueyang City on Low-Altitude Ecosystem; Wuhan eVTOL Showcase Features Prototypes; DJI Challenges FCC Drone Restrictions; ePlane Company Seeks Funding; Supernal Restructures Workforce; and Skyports and Korean Air Develop eVTOL Platform

Marine: AHTS Vessel Order for Chizhou Tianyu Shipbuilding and Hong Kong Word Engineering Company; Indian National Shipowners’ Association Joins International Chamber of Shipping; Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha Creates Shipmanagement Holdings; Nam Cheong Wins Offshore Vessel Contracts; Philippine Offshore Wind Grid Agreements; and OceanSTAR Elite Secures FPSO Contract

Space: International Space Centre Advocates Human Spaceflight Participation; HEO and UNSW Canberra Space Launch RPO Mission; Gilmour Space Technologies Joins Landing Pad; Hypersonix Tests Suborbital Hypersonic Flight; China Manned Space Agency Plans 2026 Missions; Space One Postpones Kairos Rocket Launch; and Korea AeroSpace Administration Expands Space Investment

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Financing & Investments

Investment continues to prioritize AI and digital infrastructure in Asia, reflecting confidence in long-term technological growth, while software and digital businesses pursue strategic restructuring and portfolio optimization as competitive conditions evolve.

India

Peak XV has closed $1.3 billion in new capital commitments across its India Seed, India Venture and APAC funds, adding to substantial uninvested capital in its existing Growth fund. The firm said the raise reflects continued backing from global limited partners, including major endowments and foundations, and will support founders from early stage through IPO and long-term scale across India and the broader Asia-Pacific.

💡Peak XV said it will maintain its focus on AI, fintech and consumer sectors while expanding into deeptech.

Malaysia

The World Bank Group, through the International Finance Corporation, will invest $40 million in Zetrix AI Berhad to expand blockchain-based Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and AI-enabled services in Malaysia and emerging ASEAN markets. The funding will support new applications integrated with Malaysia’s MyDigital ID and the Malaysia Blockchain Infrastructure, aimed at improving digital inclusion, service delivery and economic efficiency.

💡Zetrix AI’s offerings include digital ID verification, trade digitalization and tokenization of real-world assets, with plans to scale across ASEAN and other emerging markets.

Malaysia

VentureTECH Sdn Bhd has invested MYR28 million ($7.16 million) in cybersecurity firm Delta Spike Asia Sdn Bhd and digital connectivity provider IX Telecom Sdn Bhd to strengthen Malaysia’s cyber resilience and cross-border digital infrastructure.

💡The investment will support Delta Spike’s managed detection and response platform and regional expansion, while backing IX Telecom’s Telco-as-a-Service model aimed at improving global connectivity and enterprise digital services.

Singapore

ICON1C has raised S$10 million ($7.92 million) from stakeholders and about 20 long-standing members to fund expansion and acquisitions, opting against traditional institutional capital. The Singapore-based premium experience platform will deploy proceeds toward five to six targeted M&A deals over the next 24 months, strengthen central operating capabilities and expand flagship brands globally, as it works toward a potential IPO in the medium term.

💡Founded in 2025 and operating in Monaco, Singapore and Abu Dhabi, the group focuses on profitable, cash-generative assets within what it describes as the growing global premium experience economy.

Singapore

DBS Bank and Granite Asia have launched a $110 million AI-focused IPO fund to invest in high-growth Asian AI companies and accelerate their path to public markets. The three-year partnership will channel capital from DBS wealth clients into IPO opportunities and related growth investments, leveraging Granite Asia’s track record in guiding companies from private markets to listings. The fund aims to support Asia’s expanding AI ecosystem, where thousands of AI-driven companies have emerged in recent years and now require expansion capital.

💡The collaboration also includes plans for additional funds and co-investment structures targeting technology transformation and non-dilutive capital solutions for Asian businesses.


South Korea-Singapore

The Invention Lab and Qube Research & Technologies completed a seed investment in Singapore AI computing startup RIDM, backing its dataflow computing architecture aimed at addressing AI memory bottlenecks. RIDM, founded by engineers from the National University of Singapore and holding three international patents, is pursuing commercialization and proof-of-concept work with QRT to validate its architecture for high-performance computing applications.

💡RIDM’s architecture, called DODA, targets the “Memory Wall” problem in AI and HPC by simplifying spatial compilation and enabling development in C++. The companies are testing FPGA acceleration to demonstrate low-latency performance, while RIDM operates with a lightweight IP-focused structure and plans strategic collaborations following technology validation.


USA-China

Unity Software is considering a sale of its China unit at a valuation above $1 billion. with advisers sounding out potential buyers. Talks are preliminary and no deal is in place. Unity has operated in China since 2012, with its engine used in titles such as Tencent’s Honor of Kings, and the business generates annual revenue in the hundreds of millions of dollars. The review comes after the company’s shares fell more than 60% since early 2026, despite Q4 2025 revenue rising sequentially to $503.1 million.

💡Unity China’s backers include Alibaba Group, China Mobile and ByteDance, with some holding redemption rights tied to performance targets. Analysts say a divestment could ease capital strain as competitive pressure mounts following Google DeepMind’s release of Genie 3, an AI model that generates interactive 3D worlds from text or images, raising concerns over demand for traditional game engines.

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Environmental Sustainability

Courts and regulators are tightening oversight of environmental claims; investment in green hydrogen and sustainability initiatives continues, reflecting ongoing momentum toward decarbonization alongside rising demands for transparency.

Australia

The Federal Court of Australia ruled in favour of Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility in its greenwashing case against Santos Limited, dismissing claims that the company’s references to “clean energy,” net-zero targets and hydrogen plans were misleading.

💡The court held that the representations in Santos’ 2020 Investor Day materials and climate reports would not reasonably be interpreted as guarantees of zero emissions or unconditional future outcomes, and that the company’s disclosures about its emissions strategy and use of carbon capture and offsets were not deceptive.

China-South Korea

Envision has completed the world’s first commercial shipment of green ammonia from its Chifeng facility in Inner Mongolia to South Korea’s LOTTE Fine Chemical, marking the first end-to-end delivery across the green ammonia value chain from renewable hydrogen production to international maritime transport. The cargo originates from Envision’s renewable energy–powered production base in Chifeng, which synthesizes hydrogen and ammonia using a fully renewable power system and AI-driven energy orchestration, demonstrating commercial viability of zero-carbon ammonia exports.

💡The facility currently produces 320,000 tons of green ammonia annually, with exports beginning in Q4 2025 and capacity projected to expand to 1.5 million tons per year by 2028. The shipment was highlighted as a benchmark case for clean industrial infrastructure at the World Economic Forum,


India

Advertising Standards Council of India has launched its first influencer-driven consumer awareness campaign targeting greenwashing and dark patterns in digital advertising. The initiative under ASCI Academy aims to educate consumers on evaluating sustainability claims, recognising misleading eco-labels and identifying deceptive digital design practices such as hidden charges and interface tactics that steer purchasing decisions.

💡Digital creators will produce educational content to help audiences make informed choices and critically assess advertising claims.

India

Tata Motors, in partnership with the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, will deploy 40 hydrogen internal combustion engine trucks at the Thoothukudi port under a government-backed project, with deliveries scheduled by 2028. The deployment follows an MoU to trial hydrogen prime movers and phase in H2 ICE trucks supported by a 2 MW electrolyser and onsite hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, aimed at decarbonising port logistics operations.

💡The trucks will use the Prima 55-tonne prime mover powered by a 6.7-litre hydrogen ICE engine producing 216 kW and 1,200 Nm of torque, with an estimated range of up to 500 kilometres per refuelling and a 38-tonne payload capacity. The engine is manufactured by Tata Cummins, a joint venture between Tata Motors and Cummins.

Indonesia

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry has frozen environmental permits for 80 mining operations as part of a compliance review covering 1,358 coal and nickel extraction units across 14 provinces deemed environmentally critical. About 250 units have been inspected so far, and officials say more suspensions may follow as evaluations continue, particularly where operations are linked to environmental damage such as flooding. The review aligns with Government Regulation No. 22/2021, which prioritizes out-of-court resolution of environmental disputes before litigation.

💡Authorities estimate enforcement actions could generate IDR5–6 trillion ($298–358 million) in state revenue and aim to create a deterrent effect for non-compliant operators.

Indonesia and Thailand

Earth Journalism Network launched four seed grants under its Business and Climate Media Initiative to support new reporting on business and climate issues in Indonesia and Thailand. The grants aim to help media outlets develop sustained investigative coverage of climate impacts and corporate environmental claims, reflecting Southeast Asia’s vulnerability to climate change and the region’s expanding private sector influence on emissions and sustainability.

💡Recipients include Narasi, which will investigate greenwashing and environmental impacts of industries, and Bisnis Indonesia, which will report on business and policy dynamics in waste management. In Thailand, Prachatai will examine clean energy transitions and carbon markets, while Cloud and Ground will produce long-form reporting on sustainable forestry and reforestation beyond symbolic tree-planting efforts.


Southeast Asia

The International Finance Corporation has committed $25 million to Seraya Partners Fund I to back sustainable infrastructure in Southeast Asia. The equity investment will anchor the fund’s emerging markets sleeve, targeting decarbonization, connectivity and inclusive growth projects in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. Impact will be tracked through metrics such as renewable energy generation and digital capacity expansion.

💡The sleeve marks Seraya’s first dedicated allocation to emerging Southeast Asian markets and will invest alongside a developed Asia-Pacific sleeve to link regional value chains and support job creation.

South Korea-Canada

Hyundai Motor Group has proposed building hydrogen fuel-cell corridors in Canada as part of an industrial package linked to its bid in the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project, valued at up to ₩60 trillion ($44.4 billion). The plan envisions three to four hydrogen networks supporting rail and heavy-duty transport, positioning energy infrastructure investment alongside defense procurement to strengthen the consortium’s proposal and expand Canada’s clean-transport capabilities.

💡The submarine competition has narrowed to a final contest between a South Korean consortium led by Hanwha Oceanand Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems.

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Aviation

Aviation markets face operational disruptions and structural shifts, from airspace closures in the Middle East to regulatory action and infrastructure investment. Growth at AirAsia MOVE, Teleport, and Singapore Airlines illustrates industry resilience, while strategic acquisitions and infrastructure projects point to longer-term expansion and modernization.

Australia

Works have begun on enabling the long-planned rail connection to Melbourne Airport, with construction starting on an expanded interchange at Sunshine Station. The $4.1 billion project will untangle the rail junction, add new tracks and platforms, and realign existing lines to create space for the airport rail link, which will connect the airport to the metropolitan network and regional services.

💡The works include six kilometres of new track, two rail bridges and infrastructure upgrades to support the future airport line. A new station will also be built at Albion as part of the realignment, while Sunshine Station will receive a longer concourse and additional platforms to integrate airport services with the Metro Tunnel and regional rail.

Global

Commercial aviation across the Middle East was heavily disrupted after military hostilities linked to the conflict involving Iran prompted widespread airspace closures. Airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi reported missile strikes and operational suspensions, while hubs such as Doha also closed. Major carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airwayscancelled thousands of flights as countries such as Israel, Iran, Iraq and neighbouring states restricted airspace, leaving hundreds of thousands of passengers stranded or diverted.

💡International airlines responded by suspending services across the region. Air India halted Middle East routes, while Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa paused flights to multiple destinations. Air France, Iberia, Wizz Air and Cathay Pacific Airways also cancelled operations. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency advised carriers to avoid affected airspace, underscoring the broader impact on global travel and aviation networks.


India

Directorate General of Civil Aviation has grounded four Learjet aircraft operated by VSR Aviation following an audit triggered by a January crash that killed five people at Baramati airstrip. The audit found non-compliances in airworthiness and operational procedures, and the aircraft will remain grounded until standards are restored and a root cause analysis is reviewed. The regulator also issued deficiency reports and will intensify oversight, introducing stricter compliance and transparency requirements for non-scheduled operators.

💡The action follows multiple accidents involving VSR Aviation aircraft and broader safety concerns in India’s non-scheduled aviation sector. DGCA is implementing new measures including online disclosure of aircraft age and maintenance history, a safety ranking system for operators, and tougher penalties for procedural breaches. Operators must strengthen weather awareness, training, and maintenance compliance, while senior management will be held accountable for systemic safety failures.

Malaysia

AirAsia MOVE, the digital arm of Capital A, reported 2025 revenue of more than MYR641 million ($165 million), with EBITDA of MYR84 million and net operating profit of MYR65 million, translating to profit after tax of over MYR54 million. In Q4, revenue surged to MYR300 million, tripling quarter on quarter and nearly doubling year on year, driven by its B2B segment, which accounted for about 55% of revenue. Quarterly EBITDA reached MYR45 million and NOP MYR40 million, with margins supported by low marketing spend and lower interest costs.

Excluding B2B, flight transactions rose 12% quarter on quarter and gross booking value (GBV) climbed 28% on higher average spend. Ancillary attach rates were 23% above peer OTAs, while partnerships with VietJet and IndiGo expanded inventory. Stays conversion improved to 2.3% from 1.9% a year earlier, lifting transactions 2% and GBV 18% year on year.

💡Duty Free GBV jumped 157% following launches in the Philippines and Indonesia, as the company invests in content, technology and a virtual concierge to drive user growth and retention.


Malaysia

Teleport, the logistics arm of Capital A, reported fourth-quarter 2025 revenue of MYR367 million ($94.45 million), up 10% year on year despite a 4% decline in Asia-Pacific market yield. Quarterly volume rose 19% to 102,688 tons, while parcels surged 165% to 63 million, with a record daily peak of 974,000 parcels. Net operating profit reached MYR5.2 million ($1.34 million), improving MYR7.5 million from a year earlier.

For FY2025, Teleport posted record volume of 347,885 tons (+18%) and 167 million parcels (+99%), lifting revenue 11% to MYR1.2 billion. Full-year NOP hit MYR18.6 million, marking a MYR40 million turnaround from a MYR21 million net loss in FY2024, supported by cost controls and refinancing of a loan from Deutsche Bank in Q3.

💡The company said $50 million in pre-IPO growth capital from HPS Investment Partners will fund expansion as it scales its asset-light model integrating third-party airlines, AirAsia belly space and dedicated freighters.

Singapore

StateSquare Capital has agreed to acquire a controlling stake in Advanced Integrated Manufacturing Corp. Pte Ltd (AIM), a Singapore-based aerospace and defense electronics manufacturing services provider. Financial terms were not disclosed, with closing expected by the first quarter of 2026.

StateSquare said it will back AIM’s organic expansion and fund acquisitions in Europe and North America to build a larger independent EMS platform serving global aerospace and defense customers.

💡Founded in 1999, AIM operates in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the United Kingdom, delivering flight-critical electronic and mechanical manufacturing solutions from prototyping to testing.

Singapore-India

Singapore Airlines said it remains committed to supporting the transformation of Air India alongside owner Tata Sonsdespite continued losses from the investment. Losses from associated companies widened to S$178 million in the December 2025 quarter, reflecting a full-quarter recognition of Air India’s results and ongoing restructuring efforts as the carrier strengthens its network and operational reliability.

💡Group revenue rose 5.5% year on year to a record S$5.5 billion on 6.3% higher passenger traffic, driven largely by growth at low-cost subsidiary Scoot. Net profit fell 68.9% to S$505 million due to the absence of a prior-year S$1.1 billion non-cash gain from the disposal of Vistara during the Air India merger. The carrier expects passenger demand to remain healthy but cited uncertainty in cargo markets amid geopolitical and trade volatility.

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Advanced Air Mobility

Advanced air mobility development is accelerating in China through initiatives; prototype demonstrations and infrastructure partnerships globally indicate growing technical validation, even as regulatory and funding challenges shape commercialization pathways.

China

AutoFlight has partnered with Yueyang City in Hunan Province to build a low-altitude economy ecosystem leveraging eVTOL aircraft for logistics, tourism and emergency services. The agreement involves local development entities and aims to create a water-land-air operational network integrating cultural and transport nodes around regional assets such as Dongting Lake and Yueyang Tower.

💡The initiative follows a phased rollout prioritizing cargo and suburban operations before passenger services, with plans for a regional assembly and delivery centre in Yueyang. AutoFlight intends to attract complementary industries in manufacturing, data services and finance to establish a broader low-altitude economy value chain, while pilot demonstrations of zero-carbon eVTOL applications provided operational validation for logistics and tourism scenarios.

China

A showcase in Wuhan featured multiple eVTOL prototypes, including the Sparrow-X2 from Wuhan Fosenix General Aviation Co and a 1.2-ton eVTOL from E-HAWK Technology. The Sparrow-X2 is a six-seat aircraft with medical configurations and a reported range of up to 1,200 kilometers using a range extender, while the E-HAWK model features a ducted fan configuration.

💡Both demonstrations highlighted applications such as medical transport and urban air mobility as the platforms undergo testing and potential commercialization.

China-USA

DJI has filed a petition with the Federal Communications Commission challenging a US ban that blocks new DJI drone models from being sold in the country. The company asked the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit to review the FCC’s order, arguing the blacklist was imposed without proper authority or due process and that regulators have not identified specific national security evidence against DJI products.

💡The FCC’s action placed DJI on a “Covered List” restricting foreign telecommunications equipment deemed to pose security risks, limiting US market access for consumers, businesses and public safety users. DJI argues the ban lacks transparency and procedural fairness, citing independent security audits and claiming there is no proof its drones enable espionage.

India

The ePlane Company is in advanced talks to raise $40–50 million in a funding round expected to be co-led by deep-tech investor Speciale Invest. The capital will support product development, regulatory certification and preparation for commercial deployment of its eVTOL air taxi platform as the Chennai-based startup advances urban air mobility solutions.

💡The funds are intended to accelerate prototype testing, engineering expansion and certification with aviation authorities while strengthening manufacturing readiness.

South Korea

Supernal has laid off most of its workforce, reducing staff by roughly 300 people and leaving about 70–80 employees to maintain limited operations, according to media reports and LinkedIn posts from senior executives. The cuts follow a broader restructuring after the company paused development of its aircraft programme in 2025 as it reassessed commercial timelines and funding priorities.

💡Supernal had previously developed a technology demonstrator that completed its first flight in March 2025 and aimed to advance an S-A2 prototype later in the decade.

UK-South Korea

Skyports Infrastructure and Korean Air have signed an MoU to develop a technology platform for managing eVTOL operations, aiming to enable safe and scalable commercial advanced air mobility services. The partnership will integrate Skyports’ Vertiport Automation System with Korean Air’s flight operations and traffic management technology to support operational interoperability and real-world deployment.

💡The collaboration focuses on joint testing and validation of operational frameworks, including vertiport operations and air traffic integration, to address gaps in commercial eVTOL implementation. Both companies intend to create systems that support future AAM networks, building on Skyports’ vertiport developments in markets such as Dubai and Korea and Korean Air’s aerospace and operational experience.

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Marine

Marine investment and industry restructuring continue, with new shipbuilding orders and offshore projects alongside efforts to improve governance and operational efficiency.

China-Hong Kong

Chizhou Tianyu Shipbuilding and Hong Kong Word Engineering Company have signed a contract to build a 64.8-metre anchor handling tug supply vessel, marking Guichi Shipbuilding Industrial Base’s first foreign trade order of 2026. The AHTS will feature 1,400-tonne deadweight capacity, DP2 dynamic positioning and SMART notations for offshore operations, targeting deep-sea and shallow-water applications in China and international markets.

💡The deal builds on prior cooperation, including a 2025 order for two heavy-duty deck carriers, underscoring steady growth in export shipbuilding from Guichi Shipbuilding Industrial Base.


India

Indian National Shipowners’ Association has become a full member of International Chamber of Shipping, reflecting India’s growing role in global maritime affairs and international shipping policy discussions.

💡The membership gives Indian shipowners representation in global policymaking forums as the country expands its maritime industry and seeks greater influence in shipping governance and standards.


Japan

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha is creating K Line Ship Management Holdings to oversee its shipmanagement units under a single structure from April 1. The aim is to centralise technical oversight and resource sharing while individual companies continue daily vessel operations.

💡The change responds to decarbonisation, digitalisation and workforce pressures in shipmanagement, seeking faster coordination and stronger management standards—similar to integration moves by peers in the industry.


Malaysia

Nam Cheong has won $64.5 million in contracts to build four offshore support vessels—its first shipbuilding order in over a decade—covering dive support vessels and unmanned remotely operated landing crafts for delivery in 2027–28.

💡The remotely operated craft will use satellite control and auto-docking technology developed with SeaOwl Group, supporting offshore logistics and fleet renewal as ageing vessels approach replacement cycles.

Philippines

A consortium of Seawind Asia, Stream Invest and Triconti ECC Renewables has secured grid connection agreements for 1.65GW of offshore wind across three Philippine sites (450MW Frontera Bay, 600MW Guimaras Strait, 600MW Guimaras Strait II), removing a key transmission barrier and enabling participation in the government’s upcoming renewable energy auction.

💡The projects support Philippines’ goal of expanding renewable generation to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040 as it shifts away from imported fossil fuels.

Singapore-Malaysia

OceanSTAR Elite has secured a 15-year lease, operation and maintenance contract with Petronas Carigali for an FPSO supporting the Sepat redevelopment offshore Malaysia. The project covers engineering, construction and commissioning of a newbuild FPSO based on OceanSTAR’s standardised hull design, capable of processing at least 30,000 barrels per day with gas handling and future injection capabilities. Work is in engineering, with long-lead procurement under way.

💡Petronas previously awarded offshore transport and installation work for the project to Vantris Energy, scheduled for completion in 2029.

Space

Space programs are expanding across commercial, research and government sectors, with initiatives advocating human spaceflight engagement and missions advancing in-orbit testing. National investments and experimental launches reflect sustained momentum toward broader space capabilities despite operational delays and technological risk.

Australia

The International Space Centre at The University of Western Australia is leading a cross-sector campaign urging government support for human spaceflight participation to strengthen Australia’s role in the global space economy and deepen collaboration with the European Space Agency.

💡The proposal, backed by universities, industry and political stakeholders, argues that involvement in human spaceflight could drive economic and research opportunities while positioning Australia within international space supply chains and technology partnerships.

Australia

HEO and researchers from UNSW Canberra Space will conduct Australia’s first active-propulsion Rendezvous and Proximity Operations mission using HEO’s Continuum-1 satellite as an in-orbit test platform. The project, supported by Defence Trailblazer funding, enables fuel-powered proximity maneuvers to validate algorithms for efficient orbital operations and close-range satellite inspection.

💡The mission aims to generate high-fidelity data for space domain awareness and sensor calibration while advancing sovereign RPO capabilities.

Australia

Gilmour Space Technologies has joined the Defence and Space Landing Pad at Lot Fourteen in South Australia to engage with the state’s space ecosystem and strengthen collaboration with regulators and industry partners as it develops launch and satellite capabilities. The move places the Queensland-based launch provider within a regional innovation hub alongside government and research organisations, supporting coordination as it scales operations.

💡The Landing Pad offers workspace and business support for space and defence firms seeking a local presence, enabling companies to integrate with South Australia’s technology and research networks.

Australia-USA

An Australian-built hypersonic aircraft flown by Hypersonix was deployed into space during a suborbital test mission launched by Rocket Lab from the United States. The mission carried the DART AE scramjet demonstrator into a hypersonic flight environment to validate high-speed propulsion performance under real operational conditions, supporting ongoing research into reusable hypersonic systems and advanced aerospace capabilities.

💡By testing the vehicle in a suborbital trajectory at several times the speed of sound, the flight provided engineering data intended to improve technology readiness for defence and commercial aerospace applications as hypersonic systems progress toward operational maturity.

China

China Manned Space Agency plans two crewed space missions and one cargo resupply flight in 2026, with astronauts from Hong Kong and Macao expected to fly and one astronaut from Pakistan scheduled for a short-term payload specialist mission aboard the Chinese space station. The agency also targets a crewed lunar landing before 2030 as development of the Long March-10 rocket, Mengzhou spacecraft and Lanyue lander advances, alongside construction of supporting infrastructure at the Wenchang space launch site and ground systems for lunar operations.

💡CMSA reported 267 research projects deployed on the station.

Japan

Space One Co cancelled the planned launch of its Kairos rocket unit No.3 from Spaceport Kii in Kushimoto due to unfavourable weather conditions. The company cited weaker-than-expected air flow at altitude, raising concerns that potential flight-direction changes could create excessive structural stress on the rocket. The launch has been postponed to Wednesday or later as conditions are reassessed.

💡This is the latest delay for the mission following earlier schedule changes and the failed launches of Kairos units No.1 and No.2 in 2024. The Kairos No.3 rocket, a three-stage solid-fuel vehicle with a liquid-fuel adjustment engine, remains in preparation for flight once weather and operational conditions meet safety requirements.

South Korea

Korea AeroSpace Administration reported that the government plans to invest 1.1605 trillion won in the space sector in 2026, funding projects including the fifth launch of the Nuri rocket and development of a lunar lander as part of the second phase of lunar exploration. The budget, exceeding 1 trillion won for a second consecutive year, also supports launch infrastructure for solid-fuel systems and initiatives to strengthen space risk preparedness and situational awareness capabilities.

💡Satellite information utilisation projects will receive 129.2 billion won across 42 programmes spanning meteorology, ocean monitoring and environmental applications, with new AI-driven services aimed at expanding data usage.

**Nothing in this article is intended to be or should be construed as legal or financial advice.**

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