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Asian Chemicals Forum 2025 Convenes in Mumbai to Shape the Future of Chemical Regulation and Sustainability

The Asian Chemicals Forum (ACF) 2025, Asia’s premier platform for regulatory dialogue and sustainable chemical management, is set to take place on October 8-9, 2025, at the ITC Maratha in Mumbai.

Asian Chemicals Forum 2025 – 2nd Edition Conclave

Jointly organized by the Regulatory Representatives and Managers Association (RRMA) and the Helsinki Chemicals Forum (HCF), with Global Product Compliance (GPC) as the principal sponsor, will bring together a global confluence of government regulators, industry leaders, NGOs, and academics. The forum is dedicated to fostering in-depth dialogues on chemical safety management, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practices across Asia and beyond. As the principal sponsor, it will gather a global confluence of government regulators, industry leaders, NGOs, and academics. The forum is dedicated to fostering in-depth dialogue on chemical safety management, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practices across Asia and beyond.

A Forum for Action, Not Just Dialogue

Building on the success of its inaugural 2023 event, ACF 2025 will provide a unique forum for in-depth exchange on chemical safety management, compliance, and sustainability practices. With global regulations evolving rapidly, the conference is designed to help businesses, regulators, and stakeholders anticipate change and drive responsible growth within the industry. ACF 2025 will address the most pressing issues facing the chemical industry through carefully selected themes.

Key themes

  • Global Regulatory Impacts on the Asian Market

  • Challenges and Opportunities for the Chemicals Sector

  • GHS Developments and Their Implications on the Asian Market

  • Global Framework on Chemicals Targets and Indicators

Event Highlights

Delegates will benefit from a dynamic two-day program, featuring

  • Keynote speeches from international experts at UNEP, OECD, and ECHA.

  • Expert-led panel discussions with government policymakers and business leaders tackling major industry challenges.

  • CEO Roundtable on building sustainable chemical portfolios.

  • Compliance Expo Asia 2025 is an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge innovations in compliance services and sustainability solutions.

  • RRMA Annual Gathering and training, offering in-depth regulatory knowledge sharing and capacity building.

Why Attend ACF 2025

ACF 2025 is a must-attend event for professionals aiming to stay at the forefront of chemical regulation and sustainability. Attendees will

  • Engage directly with global experts and regulatory authorities from Asia and Europe.

  • Explore cutting-edge innovations for chemical risk management and compliance.

  • Gain exclusive insights into upcoming regulatory trends and sustainability practices.

  • Network with policy leaders, CEOs, and industry pioneers through dedicated sessions and exhibitions.

  • Position their company as a leader through speaking, sponsorship, and exhibition opportunities.

“ACF 2025 is more than a conference; its a catalyst for collaboration and change,” the organizers state. “We are curating an essential dialogue to help the industry navigate evolving regulations and drive responsible chemical management forward. This forum is the best opportunity to get ahead of policy shifts, ensure compliance, and position your organization for sustainable growth.”

Featured International Speakers

ACF 2025 will host global leaders from UNEP, OECD, ECHA, UNITAR, BASF, University of Copenhagen, Ministry of Environment Japan, Peking University, FSSC, and the Chemical Industries Association of the Philippines, among others. Confirmed speakers include

  • Geert Dancet (RRMA & Founding Executive Director, ECHA)

  • Jacqueline Alvarez (UNEP)

  • Bob Diderich and Eeva Leinala (OECD)

  • Oliver Wootton (UNITAR)

  • Joonas Alaranta (ECHA)

  • Agnes Lau (BASF, Singapore)

  • Nadirah Binti Mohamad (DOSHA, Malaysia)

  • Albert A. Samuela (Chemical Industries Association, Philippines)

  • Xenia Trier (University of Copenhagen, Denmark)

  • Dr. Koki Takaki (Ministry of Environment, Japan)

  • Dr. Jianguo Liu (Peking University, China)

  • Ante Batinic (FSSC 24000)

Distinguished National Speakers

India’s leadership in regulatory science, academia, and industry will be represented by

  • Dr. Ekta Kapoor (GLP Authority India)

  • Shikhar Jain (CII)

  • Dr. Nadeem Khan and Dr. Abhay Deshpande (JRF)

  • Dr. Satish Wagh (CHEMEXCIL)

  • Anil Jauhri (RRMA)

  • Ravi Kapoor (ICC Sustainability Committee)

  • Ramkumar Shankar (Sanmar Group)

  • Dr. Vishal Choudhary (Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser – PMO)

  • Chintan Joshi (TATA Chemicals)

  • Rupark Sarswat (India Glycols Ltd)

  • Sagar Kaushik (UPL)

  • Dr. Sudha Kannan (Aditya Birla)

  • Satish Sinha (Toxics Link)

  • Dr. K. Patel (IIT Roorkee)

  • Dr. Shalini Singh (SABIC)
    ​

ACF 2023: Building Momentum

The Asian Chemicals Forum 2023, held on September 5-6 at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, marked a significant milestone for the region’s chemical industry. The hybrid event drew more than 250 global professionals, regulators, and industry leaders, creating a powerful platform for dialogue on chemical safety, the UN Framework, and the management of PFAS.

With its combination of expert-led panels, focused regulatory training, and high-level networking, ACF 2023 set a new benchmark for collaboration and knowledge exchange in the sector. The event’s success firmly established the Forum as a landmark gathering shaping the future of chemical management across Asia and beyond.

Looking Ahead: ACF 2025

Building on this momentum, ACF 2025 in Mumbai is poised to expand both its scope and impact. The upcoming edition will bring together an even larger international community of regulators, policymakers, business leaders, NGOs, and academics, making it the most comprehensive event yet on chemical regulation and sustainability in Asia. With a sharper focus on emerging regulatory frameworks, global sustainability goals, and cross-sector collaboration, ACF 2025 aims to set the agenda for the future of responsible chemical management in the region.

Registration and Sponsorship

Secure your participation at ACF 2025 today. Explore sponsorship and exhibition opportunities to showcase your leadership in compliance and sustainability. Visit our registration page to reserve your place.

About ACF and Organizers

The Asian Chemicals Forum (ACF) is jointly organized by the Regulatory Representatives & Managers Association (RRMA) and Helsinki Chemicals Forum (HCF). GPC serves as the knowledge partner and principal sponsor. Building on the success of ACF 2023, the Forum continues to provide a leading platform for dialogue, regulatory harmonization, and sustainable industry practices across Asia and beyond.

The ACF conference covers a wide range of topics related to safe chemical use management and will engage 25+ expert speakers from governmental departments, industry leaders, NGOs, and academics from key regions and countries in Asia, Europe, and the USA.

Organizers and Partners

ACF 2025 Organizers and Partners

Joint Organizers

  • Regulatory Representatives & Managers Association (RRMA)

  • Helsinki Chemicals Forum (HCF)

Knowledge Partner & Principal Sponsor

  • Global Product Compliance (GPC)

Industry Association Partner

  • Indian Chemical Council (ICC)

Institutional Partner

  • Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS)

Export Promotion Partner

  • CHEMEXCIL

Media Associate

  • Enhesa

Program Partners

  • OECD

  • ECHA (European Chemicals Agency)

  • European Commission

  • UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme)

  • UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research)

Supporting Organizations

  • United Nations

  • World Health Organization (WHO)

  • International Labour Organization (ILO)

Trade Association Partner

  • Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC)

Tetra Pak Start-up Challenge Winner, ZUMI, Launches Lactose-Free, No Refined Sugar Milkshakes

Beanery Foods, a Hyderabad-based startup, has launched a range of lactose-free, no refined sugar, clean-label milkshakes, crafted for those with lactose intolerance, digestive sensitivities and the fast-growing community of health-conscious Indians seeking smarter indulgences. Launched under the brand name ‘Zumi‘, the naturally creamier and sweeter lactose-free formula is gentler on the gut and sweetened with monk fruit and jaggery, making it a healthier alternative. The product is now available across three cities, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai via www.zumifoods.com and amazon and will soon be available on quick commerce platforms.

Tetra Pak start-up challenge winner, ZUMI, launches Lactose-Free, No Refined Sugar Milkshakes

ZUMI is one of the winners of Startup Challenge 2024 by Tetra Pak India, in partnership with Startup India, an initiative aimed at fostering innovation in India’s F&B ecosystem. Through the programme, Zumi received comprehensive support in product development, mentorship, and commercialization, along with access to Tetra Pak’s Product Development Centre in Chakan for hands-on assistance in product formulation and testing.

The milkshakes come in three delectable flavours inspired by the Indian desserts including Rose Kulfi, Rasmalai, and Chocolate- catering to varied palates across the country. Packaged in convenient, hygienic, ready-to-drink Tetra Pak packaging, Zumi’s milkshakes are designed for today’s on-the-go consumer, with each 200ml package serving delivers 6-7 grams of protein.

Lactose-Free Formula for Everyone

Lactose-free milk delivers the same rich nutritional profile as regular milk, while being easier to digest. This makes it a smarter everyday choice for a spectrum of consumers – from fitness enthusiasts, schoolchildren, and working professionals, to individuals with digestive sensitivities, and anyone seeking a healthier lifestyle. Milk is a dietary staple in India, and nearly 30% of consumers recognize their lactose intolerance-despite studies indicating that up to 70% may actually be affected. Zumi’s products are thoughtfully crafted to meet these varied dietary needs, transforming everyday indulgences into healthier, functional choices-without compromising on taste or experience.

Naturally Sweeter, Makes for a Dessert with No Guilt
Lactose-free milk is made by adding lactase [naturally occurring enzyme], which breaks down lactose into simpler sugars (glucose and galactose), making it naturally sweeter than regular milk. Combining lactose-free milk with natural zero GI sweeteners like monk fruit gives ZUMI Milkshakes it’s creamy rich taste which makes these milkshakes an ideal alternative to calorie-heavy desserts. Perfect when served straight from the pack, or even as a base for smoothies and healthy dessert recipes, Zumi’s shakes bring convenience, nutrition and delectable flavour to the table.

Commenting on the launch, Thapasya Vijayaraghavan, Founder, Zumi Foods, said, “We are excited to serve the ever-conscious Indian consumer with our clean, lactose-free, no refined sugar milkshakes and redefine how India snacks and indulges. At ZUMI, our vision is to make better-for-you indulgence a joyful, guilt-free choice for everyone, combining nutrition with exceptional taste. Lactose-free milk retains all the nutrition of regular milk while being gentler on the gut and naturally sweeter, making it a healthier choice for everyone-not just those with lactose intolerance. With the extraordinary support and mentorship of Tetra Pak and Startup India, we’ve transformed our vision into reality-redefining indulgence in India-where taste meets health, without compromise.

Cassio Simoes, MD, Tetra Pak South Asia, added, “At Tetra Pak, we see it as our responsibility as an industry leader to nurture India’s food and beverage ecosystem. Zumi brings a refreshing perspective to India’s beverage space, combining functionality and flavour, and we are delighted to have supported their journey from concept to shelf through our Startup Challenge-providing access to our global expertise, infrastructure, and mentorship. As we continue to collaborate with promising entrepreneurs, our goal is to build a stronger, more sustainable F&B ecosystem that benefits consumers, startups, and the industry.”

Sanjiv Singh, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Startup India said, “India’s startup ecosystem has become one of the most dynamic in the world, with over 180,000+ recognised startups across 770+ districts (as of August 2025). Nearly 52% of them are from tier-2 and 3 cities.

Home-grown startups are therefore in a unique position to combine global best practices with local insights, creating products that resonate with modern Indian consumers and push India’s reputation as a hub for food & beverage innovation. We are proud to support initiatives like Tetra Pak’s Start-Up Challenge and remain committed to fostering an ecosystem where these startups can scale, generate meaningful employment, and help India capture even greater value from its innovation landscape.”

With the launch of its no refined sugar, lactose-free milkshakes, Zumi Foods is setting a new benchmark for healthy indulgence in India. Over the coming year, the brand aims to expand its footprint across more cities, introduce new flavours, in paper-based Tetra Pak packaging – continuing its mission to make functional, clean-label beverages accessible to all.

Know more about Tetra Pak’s technology here: Tetra Pak – lactose-free milk production.

About Zumi Foods

Zumi Foods is a Hyderabad-based startup redefining everyday dairy with its range of lactose-free, no refined sugar, protein-rich, clean-label milkshakes. Founded by a young entrepreneur, Thapasya Vijay, who discovered her own lactose intolerance, the brand was born out of a need to create indulgent yet functional alternatives in a country where dairy beverages is a staple. Over time, she realized that lactose-free milk isn’t just for lactose intolerant, it can be gentler on the gut, naturally sweeter, and a healthier choice for everyone. With flavours inspired by India’s culinary heritage and crafted for the modern, health-conscious consumer, Zumi Foods is on a mission to make smarter, healthier indulgence accessible to all.

GST Reforms and Speedy Deliveries Drive Record Early Access Momentum for Flipkart Minutes, Attracting 45 Lakh Visitors and Doubling Orders; Fastest Delivery in Under 3 Minutes

  • Fastest iPhone delivered under 3 Minutes during the Early Access with the highest cart value being INR 1.57 lakhs

  • The GST cut gives a boost to the festive excitement, driving a 2.6X jump in new customers during Early Access among Black and Plus members as compared to the pre-festive period

  • Top-selling products across electronics included smartphones, earbuds, and Trimmers while ghee, atta and energy drinks topped the charts in daily essentials

  • During the peak hour, 1 in 5 shoppers ordered a phone through the smartphone exchange program, with the entire assessment being completed at the customers’ doorstep in around 30 minutes

Disclaimer: Data and insights are from Early Access of The Big Billion Days Sale (12 AM – 11:59 AM of 22nd September, 2025)

When the clock struck midnight on September 21, India’s biggest shopping festival began counting in minutes. During the Early Access of The Big Billion Days 2025, Flipkart Minutes recorded over 45 lakh unique visitors and a 2X risein order volumes compared to regular days. From the very first hour, The Big Billion Days on Flipkart Minutes reflected how India celebrates today – instant, joyful, and bigger than ever. Compared to the pre-festive period, new customers on Flipkart Minutes grew by 2.6X during Early Access of the sale. In the course of the first hour of Early Access (between 12 AM – 1 AM), the fastest delivery for an iPhone was completed in under 3 minutes.

The start of this season has shown that celebrations are no longer planned for tomorrow; they are happening instantly, from ordering daily essentials like ghee, atta, and energy drinks to premium smartphones and laptops. Within this festive momentum, every cart told a story: in one city, a shopper combined dry fruits, pharmaceuticals, home essentials, and groceries in a single order, while another placed a Rs. 1.57 lakh premium cart featuring the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Smartphones remained a festive favourite, with 1 in 5 shoppers opting for the smartphone exchange program during the peak hour, where the entire assessment was completed seamlessly at the doorstep in around 30 minutes.

With the recent Next-Gen GST reforms, customers are celebrating not just faster deliveries but also tangible savings. Flipkart worked to ensure sellers passed on these benefits to the customers, making this festive season’s purchases more rewarding.

Early trends reveal how India is celebrating in the moment: from big-ticket gadgets moving as fast as midnight snacks to daily essentials arriving just before rituals begin

Festive Momentum Driven by Smartphones

  • iPhone16 emerged as the highest-selling item during the Early Access, and the fastest iPhone being delivered in under 3 minutes

  • 1 in 5 customers had already upgraded their phones through Flipkart’s smartphone exchange program, with doorstep assessments completed in around 30 minutes, marking a first-of-its-kind festive shopping innovation

  • Increasing trust in Flipkart Minutes for premium purchases like iPhones and flagship Android models signals a behavioural shift toward high-value instant commerce
    ​

Cities in Celebration Mode: Metros and Beyond

  • As compared to regular days, metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata saw a sharp 2X jump in orders

  • Pune and the tricity market, namely Ambala, Chandigarh, and Panchkula, witnessed a 4X surge in total orders, followed by an increase in Tier 2+ markets like Jaipur, Patna, Kanpur, and Mysore, showcasing the growing demand of quick commerce beyond metros

Powering Everyday Needs

  • Electronic products like boAt soundbars, trimmers, fitness bands, chargers, and iPads have seen a strong uptick with shoppers looking for both value and immediacy, driving demand for smart gadgets and accessories that support festive and gifting use cases

  • Shoppers looked for quick replenishment and last-minute stocking, with dry fruits and makhanas from brands like Farmley, Classic, and Zoff seeing strong traction, alongside energy drinks like Sting and Hell

  • Fossil and Peter England analogue watches recorded strong traction as shoppers looked for stylish yet practical festive buys for the season

Hemant Badri, Senior Vice President, Head of Minutes & Supply Chain, Customer Experience and ReCommerce, Flipkart Group, said, “This Big Billion Days marks a turning point in how India shops. For the first time, millions of customers are celebrating the country’s biggest shopping festival not just online, but instantly – with Flipkart Minutes delivering everything from ice creams to iPhones in just 10 minutes. Thanks to the recent GST reforms, this festive season has become even more fulfilling for customers as they are able to save more while shopping for their favourite products on Minutes. What excites us most is not just the scale, but the diversity of what Indians are choosing from, last-minute festive gifts and gourmet treats to trending smartphones, all delivered faster than ever imagined. The momentum we are seeing across metros and Tier II+ cities signals a cultural shift: shopping today is about immediacy, joy, and trust. At Flipkart, we are proud to be shaping this new chapter in India’s festive movement, where every order fulfilled in minutes is a celebration delivered.”

All blockbuster deals on Flipkart are live on Flipkart Minutes during The Big Billion Days 2025 sale. From essentials and electronics to festive foods and gifting must-haves, this season, Flipkart Minutes is turning instant delivery into a nationwide celebration of choice, value, and convenience, all in just 10 minutes.

About Flipkart

The Flipkart Group is one of India’s leading digital commerce entities and includes group companies Flipkart, Myntra, Flipkart Wholesale, Cleartrip, and super.money.

Established in 2007, Flipkart has enabled millions of sellers, merchants, and small businesses to participate in Indias digital commerce revolution. With a registered user base of more than 500 million, Flipkarts marketplace offers over 150 million products across 80+ categories. Today, there are over 1.4 million sellers on the platform, including Shopsy sellers. With a focus on empowering and delighting every Indian by delivering value through technology and innovation, Flipkart has created thousands of jobs in the ecosystem while empowering generations of entrepreneurs and MSMEs. Flipkart has pioneered services such as Cash on Delivery, No Cost EMI, Easy Returns, and UPI. These customer-centric innovations focus on enhancing digital payment offerings for all customers while making online shopping more accessible and affordable for millions of Indians.

For more information, please write to media@flipkart.com.

JBT Marel Inaugurates Global Production Centre in India to Strengthen Food Processing Innovation

JBT Marel, a global leader in food processing technology, today inaugurated its Global Production Centre (GPC) in India, marking a major milestone in the company’s commitment to serve the Indian and Asia-Pacific markets with world-class solutions.

Left to Right: Augusto Rizzollo, EVP – APSC & Latin America, Bob Petrie -EVP – Prepared Foods, Brian deck CEO, Jack Martin -EVP- Supply chain officer

JBT Marel India Pvt. Ltd., Vivan Kohli Industrial Estate, Old Mumbai Pune Highway, Naigaon, Taluka – Maval, Vadgaon, Pune the new facility was inaugurated by Brian Deck, CEO JBT Marel, Augusto Rizzolo, Vice President and President Regions and Integration, Bob Petri, Vice President and President Met and Prepared Foods and Jack Martin, Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer.

Other dignitaries present at the occasion included Manuel Kaufmann, Senior Director, DF & H APAC, Per Friberg, Senior Director, Prepared Foods; and Vikram Mulmule, Vice President, South Asia, Shivendra Singh, Operations Manager, South Asia Subcontinent, JBT Marel.

The GPC is designed to expand production capabilities and showcase cutting-edge processes that meet the growing demand for efficient and sustainable food processing in the region.

Speaking at the ceremony, Augusto Rizzolo, EVP and President, Regions and Integration, said, “The Global Production Centre in India is a proud milestone for us and reinforces our commitment to driving innovation in food processing. This facility not only brings global expertise closer to our customers in South Asia, but also positions India as a key hub for advanced solutions that can serve the wider Asia region.”

India’s food processing industry is one of the largest in the world, contributing nearly 12% to manufacturing GDP and employing over 8 million people. Rising consumer demand for packaged and ready-to-eat foods, combined with government initiatives such as Make in India and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Food Processing, is rapidly positioning the country as a global hub for innovation.

JBT Marel’s new GPC is strategically located to support this growth by providing advanced, sustainable solutions for Indian companies while also serving as an export base for the Asia region.

With this launch, JBT Marel reaffirms its purpose to “Transform the Future of Food” and strengthen its focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric growth in one of the world’s most dynamic food markets.

About JBT Marel

JBT Marel Corporation (NYSE and Nasdaq Iceland: JBTM) is a leading global technology solutions provider to high-value segments of the food & beverage industry. JBT Marel brings together the complementary strengths of both the JBT and Marel organizations to transform the future of food. JBT Marel provides unique and holistic solutions offering by designing, manufacturing, and servicing cutting-edge technology, systems, and software for a broad range of food and beverage end markets. JBT Marel aims to create better outcomes for customers by optimizing food yield and efficiency, improving food safety and quality, and enhancing uptime and proactive maintenance, all while reducing waste and resource use across the global food supply chain. JBT Marel operates sales, service, manufacturing and sourcing operations in more than 30 countries.

For more information, please visit www.jbtmarel.com.

Signify Launches Philips LightTheatre: Brings Smart Immersive Entertainment for Indian Homes Ahead of the Festive Season

  • Backed by Signify’s commitment to innovation and connected living

  • Creates a holistic immersive experience with HDMI Sync Box with TV backlight strip, Philips gradient light bars and gradient floor light

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, today announced the India launch of the revolutionary Philips LightTheatre, introducing a groundbreaking smart lighting solution designed to transform home entertainment into an unparalleled immersive experience. This innovative system seamlessly integrates dynamic lighting with visual and audio content, bringing movies, music, and gaming to life like never before.

Signify launches Philips LightTheatre

As consumers increasingly seek holistic entertainment solutions that go beyond the screen, the Philips Smart Entertainment Range is designed to meet this demand, offering an all-in-one solution that delivers a truly cinematic experience in the comfort of home.

Philips Smart Entertainment Range

The Philips LightTheatre is engineered to redefine how consumers interact with their entertainment. The system utilizes advanced Philips LightTheatre HDMI Sync Technology, which reads signals directly from video source via HDMI input, making lights dynamically respond to the colors on your TV screen for real-time accurate syncing. The system utilizes advanced Philips LightTheatre HDMI Sync Technology, which reads signals directly from any HDMI-connected device, instantly analyzes the colors and sounds, and projects ultra-accurate light effects onto the surrounding walls. Compatible with Philips gradient light bars, gradient floor light, and other Wi-Fi connected lights, creating a holistic immersive experience. This creates a captivating ‘light theatre’ effect that extends the on-screen action beyond the television, drawing viewers deeper into the content.

Talking about the product launch C Arun Kumar, Head of Consumer Business – Signify, Greater India said, “At Signify, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. In India, where digital entertainment is becoming a way of life, the quality of how people experience content has never been more important. Philips LightTheatre transforms everyday viewing into an immersive, cinematic experience, allowing people to not just watch but truly feel every moment. Whether it’s sports, music, or movies, with LightTheatre, we are redefining home entertainment as a seamless blend of technology, emotion, and lifestyle.”

Key features of Philips LightTheatre include:

  • Immersive HDMI Sync Technology: Reads HDMI signals directly, synchronizing lights with video and music in real time for dynamic effects.

  • Easy Plug and Play: Simple setup with effortless integration into existing home entertainment systems.

  • Multicolor Gradient Segments: Rich spectrum of customizable colors for personalized ambiance and effects.

  • WiZ App Control: Full control via the intuitive WiZ app to manage settings, select light scenes, and switch between four preset sync modes – Cinematic, Vibrant, Relaxation, Rhythmic or fine-tune brightness and intensity.

  • Expandable Ecosystem: The HDMI Sync Box works with any Philips Smart LED color-capable light that supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Users can link as many lights to the Sync Box as they like and make them sync with TV simultaneously.

  • Voice Control Integration: Works with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri Shortcuts for convenient hands-free operation.

The Philips LightTheatre promises to elevate movie nights, gaming sessions, and music listening to an entirely new dimension, making every moment more vibrant and engaging.

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals, consumers, and the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact systems and data-enabled services deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. In 2024, we had sales of EUR 6.1 billion, approximately 29,000 employees and a presence in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We have been in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index since our IPO for eight consecutive years and have achieved the EcoVadis Platinum rating for five consecutive years, placing Signify in the top one percent of companies assessed. News from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on X, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

VinFast’s VF 6 and VF 7 Offer New Symbols of Accessible Premium EVs

Several trends are emerging in India’s car market: It is leaning heavily toward SUVs, and the electric shift is slowly but clearly underway. Between January and July this year, more than 90,000 electric cars and SUVs were sold. July alone crossed 15,000 units, a record that highlights how interest is building month by month.

Both VF 6 and VF 7 feature large touchscreens, vegan-leather upholstery and support for over-the-air updates

The share of battery-electric cars in new passenger vehicle registrations reached 5.4 percent in August, up from 4.9 percent in July. SUVs and MPVs now account for nearly two-thirds of car sales in this financial year, underlining the country’s preference for taller, larger vehicles.

At the upper end of the market, growth has been faster. Electric models in the luxury segment saw a 66 percent rise in sales between January and May, pushing their share from 7 percent to 11 percent. For many buyers, electric mobility is starting to feel like a serious choice rather than an experiment.

It is into this early but growing market that VinFast has recently introduced the VF 6 and VF 7, the first models to come out of its new 400-acre plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. The launches arrive at a time when interest in electric SUVs is beginning to spread.

VF 6 and VF 7: Affordable-Premium Answer

The VF 6 is priced between Rs. 16.49 lakh and Rs. 18.29 lakh. The larger VF 7 ranges from Rs. 20.89 lakh to Rs. 25.49 lakh. Both combine SUV styling with long-range batteries, placing them in the space where many Indian buyers are now looking.

The VF 6 carries a 59.6 kWh battery pack with an ARAI-certified range of up to 468 km. It supports DC fast charging from 10 to 70 percent in around 25 minutes. The VF 7 uses a larger 70.8 kWh pack and can travel up to 496 km, with fast charging in about 28 minutes. Higher trims add all-wheel drive, with quicker acceleration for those who value performance.

Inside, the focus is on clean design and technology. Both models feature large touchscreens, vegan-leather upholstery and support for over-the-air updates. The cabins are minimalistic but functional, offering flat rear floors that make the second row more comfortable. Boot space is 423 liters in the VF 6 and 537 liters in the VF 7, with folding seats for added flexibility.

Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and 360-degree cameras bring a degree of driver assistance not always common in this price band. Pininfarina’s influence is visible in the styling, with sharp surfaces, coupe-like rooflines and distinctive V-shaped lighting signatures.

VinFast is offering incentives to ease adoption. Buyers get free nationwide DC charging at partner V-Green stations until July 2028, along with three years of free maintenance. The battery, the most critical component of an EV, is covered by a 10-year or 200,000 km warranty, offering reassurance for those still cautious about longevity.

VinFast India is rapidly expanding its presence across India with planned 35 dealer touchpoints and 26 Workshops across 27 cities by year-end. These include metros and emerging EV hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.

What It Means for Indian Buyers

For many households, the choice to go electric depends on practicality, cost, and trust. The VF 6 and VF 7, which Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, described as models that “embody the perfect harmony… that Indian consumers aspire to,” address those concerns with SUV formats, long-range batteries, and support measures like free charging and maintenance.

India’s 4-wheeler EV market is still young, but crossing 5 percent of new registrations shows the shift is widening. In that context, the VF 6 and VF 7 occupy a middle ground of accessible SUVs that can make the move to electric feel less like a leap and more like a natural step forward.

DuDigital Global Concludes Successful Delhi Partner Activation for Meydan Free Zone

DuDigital Global Limited (NSE: DUGLOBAL) successfully concluded its exclusive partner activation event in Delhi, drawing prominent Chartered Accountants, leading law firm partners, and senior travel industry professionals for a high-impact networking and knowledge-sharing session on UAE company formation and advisory opportunities. The engagement led to multiple partner onboardings, underscoring strong market interest and confidence in DuDigital Global’s end-to-end support model.

Turning visions into ventures: DuDigital Global hosted an advisor-exclusive Delhi session on UAE company formation; strong turnout and new partner onboardings

Hosted in association with Meydan Free Zone, the session focused on actionable pathways for Indian advisors to expand client services into Dubai through streamlined licensing, compliant structures, and concierge-led execution. The discussions emphasized practical use cases, referral workflows, and go-to-market enablement for channel partners.

Manoj Dharmai, Group CEO, DuDigital Global, said, “We are delighted by the response from Delhi’s advisory community. The quality of discussions and immediate sign-ups validate our proposition of trusted execution, transparent processes, and measurable outcomes for clients expanding to the UAE.”

Shivaz Rai, Director, DuDigital Global, added, “This activation was designed for decision-makers like CAs, lawyers, and travel leaders who advise growth-focused clients. We’re pleased to have onboarded several partners and will continue to equip them with training, sales enablement, and on-ground support in Dubai.”

Mohammad Bin Humaidan, Director, Meydan Free Zone, commented, “Our collaboration with DuDigital Global is helping us engage India’s advisory community more effectively. The strong turnout in Delhi and multiple onboardings demonstrate the demand for a simplified, compliant, and growth-oriented pathway to establish businesses in Dubai.

If you missed the session and would like to explore becoming a channel partner, please write to info@dudigitalglobal.com and a concerned associate will connect to guide you through program details and onboarding.

About DuDigital Global

DuDigital Global Limited (NSE: DUGLOBAL), established in 2015, leads digital transformation in global mobility-simplifying international travel, identity, and business establishment for individuals and enterprises. The company manages visa application centres and consular services, offers end-to-end UAE company formation (Free Zone and Mainland), and provides investment-led Residency and PR pathways. DuDigital is a trusted partner to embassies and tourism boards, including the Embassy of India in South Korea and the Korea Tourism Organization, and is the developer of DuVerify, a digital document authentication platform. DuDigital has a strong presence across India, South Korea, UAE, Thailand, and Bangladesh.

About Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone, centrally located in Dubai, provides entrepreneurs and businesses a premium platform with 100% foreign ownership, tax advantages, multi-activity licensing, and modern infrastructure, supported by streamlined setup and concierge services.

Huawei and Zhongshan Hospital Launch a Global Showcase for Healthcare Intelligence

During HUAWEI CONNECT 2025, Huawei and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University (Zhongshan Hospital in short) officially launched a global showcase for intelligent healthcare.

Launch of the Zhongshan Hospital Intelligent Healthcare Global Showcase

Shi Yinghong, Vice President of Zhongshan Hospital; Sean Zhou, Co-CEO of United Imaging Intelligence; and Li Junfeng, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of the Global Public Sector BU, jointly participated in the launch of the global showcase.

As the saying goes, “To do a good job, one must first sharpen their tools.” To build a smart hospital that meets the high standards and expectations of the people, Zhongshan Hospital has partnered with Huawei to co-develop a new healthcare service ecosystem, focusing on an integrated smart foundation, and scenario-based solutions.

On the scenario side, leveraging Huaweis joint innovations with partners, including smart hospital campuses and smart medical technology, Zhongshan Hospital has progressively implemented 8 core and 24 extended intelligent healthcare scenarios. This allows for intelligent operations across 1 main and 9 branch campuses, along with coordinated medical technology and research efforts, supporting scientific innovation in over 40 major disease areas. In the radiology department, AI assists physicians with image annotation, analysis, and report generation, boosting diagnostic efficiency by 50%.

In her remarks, Gu Jianying, Party Secretary of Zhongshan Hospital, emphasized that empowered by cutting-edge technologies such as advanced computing, storage, and large-scale AI models, Zhongshan Hospital will continue to drive the demonstration and dissemination of innovative medical technologies across the healthcare landscape.

Sean Zhou, Co-CEO of United Imaging Intelligence, shared that leveraging the foundation of the companys uAI NEXUS model, six specialized healthcare agents have already been deployed at Zhongshan Hospital. These include agents for radiology, surgical procedures, and quality control management, among others. Together, they help the hospital deliver equitable, high-quality, and efficient healthcare services.

Li Junfeng, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of the Global Public Sector BU, stated that with the empowerment of AI, the healthcare industry is rapidly entering a new era of intelligent and personalized experiences. Huawei remains committed to advancing foundational technologies and continuously innovating scenario-based solutions. Through this effort, Huawei supports Zhongshan Hospital in building a globally leading model of intelligent healthcare, bringing Chinas cutting-edge healthcare innovations to the international stage.

Ortus International School Unveils Leadership and Legacy at its First Investiture Ceremony

Ortus International School proudly etched a historic milestone with its inaugural Investiture Ceremony, a celebration of leadership, responsibility, and the vibrant spirit of its students. The event symbolized the school’s unwavering mission to nurture tomorrow’s change makers- who combine confidence with compassion, and values with vision.

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Young leaders take charge at Ortus Investiture Ceremony

The ceremony began with the solemn investiture of the student council, where young leaders donned their badges of honor and pledged to uphold integrity, discipline, and excellence. Their oath was not just a promise but a powerful reminder that leadership at Ortus is defined by action, accountability, and service.

A landmark highlight was the formal launch of the four distinguished school houses – Chola, Satavahana, Gupta, and Maurya. Rooted in India’s glorious dynasties and reimagined for today’s learners, each house carries a timeless legacy:

  • Chola – Strength and maritime vision, inspiring ambition beyond boundaries.

  • Satavahana – Cultural richness and global outlook, promoting harmony and inclusivity.

  • Gupta – The golden age of knowledge, fostering curiosity, creativity, and innovation.

  • Maurya – Unity and governance, encouraging empathy-driven leadership.

These houses will become the heartbeat of Ortus life, cultivating teamwork, healthy competition, and a sense of belonging-ensuring every child has the opportunity to shine in academics, sports, arts, and service.

Addressing the gathering, the guest Shri Ghanta Venkata Rao, Additional Superintendent of Police, Telangana Police Academy reaffirmed, “It gives me immense joy to see Ortus nurturing not just students, but confident young leaders who will shape the future.”

The Investiture Ceremony was more than an event-it was a defining moment that showcased Ortus International School’s vision of shaping global citizens grounded in values. With this proud beginning, Ortus stands ready to lead its students into a future filled with purpose, pride, and possibility.

Northwind Launches “Sanctuary” in Greater Noida: Achieves 50% Sales; Sales Realisation of Rs. 600 Crore

Northwind Estates has recorded a strong response to the launch of its flagship luxury residential project, Sanctuary, in Greater Noida. At the Grand Allotment Day, the company announced that 50% of the Rs. 600 crore sales realisation was achieved on the very first day.

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Northwind launches its luxury project Sanctuary in Greater Noida

Spread over 4.5 acres in Sector Pi, near the Greater Noida Metro station, Sanctuary will comprise only 180 apartments across three residential towers. Two towers will feature four apartments on each floor, while the third tower will have just two apartments per floor, ensuring both density and exclusivity. The project offers 3BHK units of 1,900 sq. ft., 4BHK units of 2,400 sq. ft., and 4BHK + Utility units of 3,700 sq. ft. Each tower is equipped with four elevators, and the design emphasizes space and privacy.

Northwind Estates said the project is among the first IGBC Platinum-rated group housing societies in Greater Noida. Facilities include a five-star clubhouse with lifestyle amenities, landscaped open areas, and a retail complex on the ground level.

The launch of Sanctuary marks an important milestone for Northwind Estates. The overwhelming response on the very first day highlights the demand for well-planned luxury residences in Greater Noida. With its IGBC Platinum rating, low-density design, and focus on sustainable living, Sanctuary reflects our commitment to creating projects that combine quality, comfort, and long-term value for our customers. We believe this development will set a new benchmark for premium housing in the region,” saysShaurya Garg, Director of Marketing & Sales, Northwind Estates.

The location offers proximity to key city infrastructure. Pari Chowk, Fortis Hospital, and Kailash Hospital are within a 10-minute drive, while the upcoming Jewar Airport is expected to be reachable in under 30 minutes. Designed by architectural firm Confluence, the project is set to add a premium address to the region’s housing market.

About Northwind Estates
Northwind Estates is a refined expression of modern living, rooted in over two decades of real estate legacy. With an unwavering focus on design integrity, sustainability, and transparency, the brand is shaping elevated spaces that resonate with purpose and elegance. Their flagship development in Greater Noida offers a thoughtfully crafted lifestyle amidst expansive greens- where architecture meets harmony, and every detail is designed to enrich the way you live.