Category: JCN Newswire

TOKYO, Apr 4, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Kirin Holdings Company, Limited and Hitachi, Limited concluded a joint research agreement in March 2025 with the aim of creating forest-based carbon credits.(1) By utilizing Kirin’s “Rapid propagation system of plants” and Hitachi’s “Remote monitoring technologies and digital measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV)(2) technologies,” we aim to create high-quality forest-based carbon credits, while also working to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and achieve biodiversity conservation through the protection of afforestation areas. In this way, we will contribute to the realization of a decarbonized society and the conservation of the natural environment.BackgroundAccording to the Emissions Gap Report 2023 published by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), the total global GHG emissions in 2022 reached a record high of approximately 57.4 billion tons.(3) The total carbon absorption of forests, which contributes to the reduction of GHG in the atmosphere, is also on the decline in Japan,(4) and one of the causes is thought to be the slowing of tree growth due to the aging of forests. Maximizing the carbon sequestration capacity of forests is required for the transition to a decarbonized society. In addition, in recent years, there has been a growing trend to disclose information such as the impact of a company’s business on the natural environment in line with the framework of the Task Force on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD),(5) and there is a need for initiatives that balance decarbonization and biodiversity conservation. Against this background, Kirin and Hitachi have focused on forest-based carbon credits and have started joint research to address social issues.IssuesIn the field of forest-based carbon credits, there is a problem of “junk credits”(6) that are not subject to proper MRV, and there is a growing demand for forest-based carbon credits with a high level of integrity. In addition, because the procedures for applying for credits are complex, there is a need for efficient and highly transparent forest management and credit creation.Furthermore, with regard to the production of seedlings, which is one form of appropriate forest management, as the producers age, their number continues to decline, and has been below 1,000 for more than 10 years.(7) As it takes a long time to propagate seedlings using traditional grafting and cuttings, there is an urgent need to develop more efficient seedling production technology.Overview of Joint ResearchA joint research agreement was signed in March 2025 with the aim of creating high-quality forest-based carbon credits and conserving biodiversity by combining Kirin’s “Rapid propagation system of plants” with Hitachi’s “Remote monitoring technology and digital MRV technologies”.Kirin will establish a method for producing seedlings that can be produced more efficiently in a shorter period of time than conventional grafting and cutting techniques using its “Rapid propagation system of plants.” Hitachi will utilize “Remote monitoring technologies and digital MRV technologies” to develop a method for quantitatively evaluating carbon sequestration, and to create an unalterable database and automatically generate application reports. In the future, we will begin planning for a demonstration test to evaluate carbon sequestration and biodiversity in the field.Future ProspectsKirin and Hitachi will promote further joint research themes that leverage the strengths of bothcompanies, and by creating high-quality forest-based carbon credits, aim to simultaneously address a variety of social issues, including biodiversity conservation, contributions to forest businesses, GHG reduction (promotion of decarbonization), and improvement of the global environment.In addition to promoting activities aimed at implementing demonstration tests, we will also continue to search for collaborative partners for demonstration tests and implementation.The Kirin Group aims to overcome the challenge of climate change and build a decarbonized society through its Kirin Group Environmental Vision 2050. Kirin aims to not only achieve net zero GHG emissions across its entire value chain by 2050, but also to go beyond its value chain to contribute to a decarbonized society. Kirin will work to create carbon credits and address climate change while maintaining forests using Kirin’s “Rapid propagation system of plants.” (March 24, 2025, Company Release, Carbon Credit Policy (www.kirinholdings.com/en/newsroom/release/2025/0324_02.html) Hitachi is promoting initiatives to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 based on its long-term environmental goals outlined in Hitachi Environmental Innovation 2050. In addition, Hitachi will lead the search for a solution to global environmental issues through its social innovation business and contribute to the realization of a sustainable society where the preservation of the global environment and quality of life are compatible.(1) The right to trade greenhouse gas emission reductions.(2) Referring to the measurement, reporting and verification of GHG emissions and absorption. Ministry of the Environment.(3) Ministry of the Environment, 2024: White Book of the Environment, the Recycling Society, and Biodiversity www.env.go.jp/policy/hakusyo/r06/html/hj24010203.html (in Japanese)(4) Ministry of the Environment: Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Absorption in FY2022 (Summary) www.env.go.jp/content/000216815.pdf (in Japanese) (5) Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures: An international organization that is developing a framework to help private companies and other organizations properly assess and disclose the risks and opportunities related to natural capital and biodiversity.(6) Carbon credits for which the effect of GHG reduction is uncertain.(7) Forestry Agency: Current State of Seedling Production Business www.rinya.maff.go.jp/j/kanbatu/syubyou/syubyou.html (in Japanese) “Number of Seedling Production Businesses by Management Type and Trends in Seedling Production Area” 2012-2022. www.rinya.maff.go.jp/j/kanbatu/syubyou/attach/pdf/syubyou-48.pdf (in Japanese)(8) Kirin Research and Development: “From seed potato production to space farms! Kirin’s ‘mass plant propagation technology’ is attracting attention in a variety of fields” https://rd.kirinholdings.com/domain/result/story_014.html (in Japanese)(9) Kirin Research and Development: “Developing a technology to mass-produce Japanese black pine saplings, and contributing to the regeneration of coastal protective forests in the Tohoku disaster area” https://rd.kirinholdings.com/domain/result/report_021.html (in Japanese)(10) Hitachi News Release, October 30, 2023 “Full-scale verification begins for digitization of J-Credits promoted by the Ministry of the Environment” www.hitachi.co.jp/New/cnews/month/2023/10/1030a.html (in Japanese)About Kirin Holdings Company, LimitedKirin Holdings Company, Limited is an international company that operates in the Food & Beverages domain (Food & Beverages businesses), Pharmaceuticals domain (Pharmaceuticals businesses), and Health Science domain (Health Science business), both in Japan and across the globe.Kirin Holdings can trace its roots to Japan Brewery which was established in 1885. Japan Brewery became Kirin Brewery in 1907. Since then, the company expanded its business with fermentation and biotechnology as its core technologies, and entered the pharmaceutical business in the 1980s, all of which continue to be global growth centers. In 2007, Kirin Holdings was established as a pure holding company and is currently focusing on boosting its Health Science domain.Under the Kirin Group Vision 2027 (KV 2027), a long-term management plan launched in 2019, the Kirin Group aims to become A global leader in CSV*, creating value across our world of Food & Beverages to Pharmaceuticals. Going forward, the Kirin Group will continue to leverage its strengths to create both social and economic value through its businesses, with the aim of achieving sustainable growth in corporate value.*Creating Shared Value. Combined added value for consumers as well as for society at large.About Hitachi, LimitedHitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society through the use of data and technology. We solve customers’ and society’s challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products. Hitachi operates under the 3 business sectors of “Digital Systems & Services” - supporting our customers’ digital transformation; “Green Energy & Mobility”- contributing to a decarbonized society through energy and railway systems, and “Connective Industries” - connecting products through digital technology to provide solutions in various industries. Driven by Digital, Green, and Innovation, we aim for growth through co-creation with our customers. The company’s revenues as 3 sectors for fiscal year 2023 (ended March 31, 2024) totaled 8,564.3 billion yen, with 573 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 270,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company’s website at https://www.hitachi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 4, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) is pleased to announce its new management strategy, Corporate Strategy 2027. The theme of the new strategy is “Leveraging our Integrated Strength for the Future”.Amidst unprecedented geopolitical and economic risks, we recognize that the business environment has become increasingly uncertain on multiple fronts. We have formulated Corporate Strategy 2027 to further strengthen the earnings base of our existing businesses and create new projects, while flexibly shifting our strategic direction based on the risks and opportunities arising from external changes.1. Corporate Strategy 2027VisionOptimize our business portfolio to achieve sustainable growth and increase our corporate value by leveraging our integrated strength in response to a rapidly changing business environment.MC’s “Integrated Strength” refers to our ability to dynamically shift business strategies in anticipation of market changes by combining our extensive operational experience, broad industry expertise and deep insights, powered by our top-tier and diverse talent base, as a trusted partner.Key Quantitative TargetsWe have set two key quantitative targets to focus on growth and efficiency respectively:Underlying Operating Cash Flow: Average growth rate of 10% or greater.Return On Equity (ROE): 12% or more by FY2027.Financial SoundnessWe have set an upper limit of approximately 0.6 for our net debt-to-equity ratio and will consider the use of leverage to facilitate certain investments, while maintaining our financial soundness.Shareholder ReturnsWe will maintain our basic policy of progressive dividends and flexible share buybacks.2. Value Creation Framework to Deliver Corporate Strategy 2027To achieve sustainable high growth and efficiency, we will upgrade our Value-Added Cyclical Growth Model using our integrated strength as the engine for value creation.EnhanceAccelerate growth and reinforce earnings base across all businesses via expansion and additional investments.ReshapeM&A, capital strategies and other initiatives leading to business transformation ahead of market shifts.CreateNew investments and joint projects between business segments to create potential synergistic effects.3. Capital Allocation StrategyOver the three years of this management strategy, we will allocate approximately ¥1 trillion to sustaining capex and more than ¥3 trillion to growth investments.In a potential excess cash scenario, we will evaluate the allocation of those funds to investments or additional shareholder returns in consideration of our investment pipeline and other factors.Inquiry RecipientMitsubishi CorporationTelephone: +81-3-3210-2171 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Tokyo and Kawasaki, Japan, Apr 3, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and Fujitsu Limited today announced a partnership to explore the creation of a data analytics business, designed to empower customers with enhanced decision-making and operational efficiency.The partnership comes after a joint project team formed by the two companies in 2024 conducted a survey of customer needs and discovered that various industries, including manufacturing, wholesale, and retail, want to move away from decision-making based on individual experience and promote data-driven operations to improve efficiency, and enhance management decision-making.To meet these needs, the two companies will combine their expertise and technologies to create a data analytics business focused on solving customer challenges.These efforts come against the backdrop of Japan’s aging population and declining birthrate which is leading to labor shortages and increased personnel costs, as well continuing corporate awareness of the importance of sustainability efforts, including efforts to reduce CO2 emissions by optimizing inventory management and minimizing waste in manufacturing.OverviewThe following initiatives will be pursued through the companies’ agreement.Planning and consideration of data analysis solutions to enhance management decision-making of customersDevelopment of joint marketing activities for customersDemonstration experiments and service provision combining the assets and solutions of both companiesSMBC's industry knowledge and data science analysis expertise will be combined with Fujitsu's AI demand forecasting to enhance management decision-making, and support the optimization of customers' product ordering volumes, personnel allocation, and logistics planning.Fujitsu's AI demand forecasting incorporates the Fujitsu patented Dynamic Ensemble Model technology which automatically tunes and optimally combines multiple demand forecasting models. Compared to selecting a single forecasting model, this approach enables more accurate learning that captures the characteristics of each forecasting target, which changes due to various factors such as demand cycles, external influences, and trends. This results in stable and highly accurate demand forecasting, enabling rapid response to market needs and supporting corporate management decisions.Future plansSMBC has positioned the creation of social value as one of the pillars of its medium-term management plan, Plan for Fulfilled Growth. To date, SMBC has supported customers' data-driven decision-making through customized data analysis solutions that leverage advanced data science and financial engineering knowledge to address industry-specific challenges and diverse needs. Through business co-creation with Fujitsu, SMBC aims to provide new financial and non-financial solutions that support data-driven management decision-making.Fujitsu's AI demand forecasting enables the enhancement of product demand and inventory management, contributing to the reduction of waste and improvement of operational efficiency. Under the business model Fujitsu Uvance, which aims to resolve societal challenges, Fujitsu will advance the transformation of complex management in a rapidly changing world by realizing advanced customer decision-making through Digital Shifts which promotes data-driven management initiatives in an agile manner.About FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$26 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com.Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiries Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 2, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The "GTF Advantage" engine which Mitsubishi Heavy Industry Aero Engines, Ltd., a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, participates in its development as a member of Japanese Aero Engines Corporation (JAEC) has achieved the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification for the Airbus A320neo family aircraft.Development of the GTF Advantage engine was carried out through the international joint venture International Aero Engines (IAE) which was established by Pratt & Whitney, MTU Aero Engines and JAEC, with MHIAEL responsible for the manufacturing of the combustion module and the engine maintenance.The GTF Advantage engine will enable higher payload capacity and extended range through delivery of additional take-off thrust and reduces CO2 emissions through improved fuel efficiency.Additionally, the engine will have improved durability and extended time on wing which is made available through fully redesigned life-limited-parts and technology enhancements throughout the entire gas-pass.MHIAEL performs critical role in delivering such capabilities through its responsibility for the combustor module which belongs to the high-temperature section of the engine.Delivery of the A320neo family aircraft equipped with the GTF Advantage is scheduled to begin later this year.MHIAEL is committed to continue working to improve technological capabilities and reliability in the development, manufacturing, and after-sales service of aircraft engines, as well as to expand production capacity, thereby contributing to the development of the Japanese aircraft industry and achieving carbon neutrality in the air.About MHIAEL:Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Aero Engines, Ltd. (MHIAEL) is one of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) group companies established to strengthen its aircraft engine business to address the significantly growing commercial aviation demands. MHIAEL was established on October 1, 2014.MHIAEL participates in the wide-body and narrow-body engine programs with major engine OEMs such as Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney and GE Aerospace under multiple contractual arrangements including but not limited to Risk & Revenue Sharing Partnerships and joint ventures.MHIAEL is also engaged in the engine maintenance, repair and overhaul business for both domestic and international airlines. Its services include engine maintenance and parts repairs for the V2500 and PW1100G-JM engines, which power Airbus's best-selling aircraft A320 and A320neo series. MHIAEL is committed to contributing to safe and comfortable air travel for its customers.https://www.mhi.com/group/mhiael/About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

SHIBUYA KU, TOKYO, April 2, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Prideone Entertainment Co., Ltd. has revealed the concept for its upcoming film, tentatively titled "Fellers", which aims to mark the 80th anniversary of the post-war era.American Brigadier General Bonner Fellers, liaison between Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, General Douglas MacArthur and the Imperial Household through the occupation of Japan.Stated Prideone CEO Yasushi Akutagawa, "Fellers is an epic historical drama that explores the lesser-known story of American officer Bonner Fellers, alongside a group of Christians, playing a key role in saving the Emperor of Japan immediately following World War II."Akutagawa, who originally conceived and produced the 2012 film Emperor (production budget: 3 billion yen), had focused on Bonner Fellers previously. However, the director's cut saw the film evolve into a love story between Fellers (played by Matthew Fox) and a fictional Japanese lover, diverging from Akutagawa’s historical vision.Prompted by appeals from figures such as Yoshiko Isshiki, former chairperson of Keisen Women's School, who called for a more accurate portrayal of Fellers in this milestone year, Akutagawa resolved to create a new film with a fresh perspective. The project will be directed by a Japanese filmmaker, and the original script, based on historical events, has now been completed.Historical Context and Film OverviewThe post-war era began on August 30, 1945, when General Douglas MacArthur, Supreme Commander of the Allied Powers, landed in Japan and initiated the full-scale American occupation. MacArthur ordered mass arrests of war criminals and pursued their prosecution. In the U.S., there were widespread demands to try the Emperor as a war criminal.However, MacArthur, prioritizing the construction of an "anti-communist bulwark" in the Far East while supporting his own political aspirations, recognized the strategic value of maintaining stability in Japan. With an eye on a potential presidential campaign, he sought to achieve success in Japan's post-war governance. To bolster his position, he ordered his subordinates to collect evidence implicating the Emperor in the decision to wage war, including the attack on Pearl Harbor.Amidst this political turmoil, Bonner Fellers — an American officer with deep ties to Japan — was assigned to investigate. Having previously developed a friendship with Yuri Isshiki before the war, Fellers was influenced by the writings of Lafcadio Hearn, which Yuri had introduced to him. These works convinced him of the Emperor's symbolic importance to Japan's future. Motivated by his convictions, Fellers searched for Yuri and her mentor, Michi Kawai, setting in motion a dramatic chain of events that helped shape modern Japan.Without these critical behind-the-scenes efforts, Japan as it exists today might have taken a very different course*.Production Details and Release PlanFilming for Fellers is scheduled to begin in Japan and New Zealand in 2027, with a planned release in the fall of 2028. Prideone Entertainment has allocated a production budget of 4 billion yen, with an additional 1 billion yen in marketing and distribution. The production is currently seeking backers.About Yasushi AkutagawaYasushi Akutagawa, born on April 3, 1956, in Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, graduated from Nihon University’s College of Art, majoring in film. He began creating 8mm films during his time at Kumamoto Prefectural Seiseiko High School, which inspired him to pursue a career in film production. Following graduation, he worked at a major advertising agency before founding Prideone Entertainment Co., Ltd. Since then, he has produced a diverse range of films, television programs, theatre productions, and radio shows.Notable Works* 1991: Futari (Starring: Hikari Ishida) – Directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi* 1995: Ashita (Starring: Kaori Takahashi, Yasufumi Hayashi) – Directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi * 1998: Kaze no Uta ga Kikitai (Starring: Ryo Amamiya, Yuri Nakae; Tokyo International Film Festival Special Invitation) – Directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi * 1999: Ano Natsu no Hi (Starring: Keiju Kobayashi; Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival Special Invitation) – Directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi * 2000: Den'en no Yutsu (Starring: Tomokazu Miura, Mitsuko Baisho; Tokyo International Film Festival Special Invitation) – Directed by Keisuke Kawahara* 2013: Emperor (Starring: Matthew Fox) – Directed by Peter WebberContact InformationFor inquiries regarding this project, please contact:Prideone Entertainment Co., Ltd., PR: Tsukioka, Email: akidiginfo@gmail.comhttps://yasushi-akutagawa.studio.siteFor background see: https://youtu.be/GiRBEQSvqHo Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi High-Tech Corporation ("Hitachi High-Tech") has revised its corporate vision and mission effectivetoday.Corporate VisionChanging the World and Future with the Power of KnowledgeMissionWe provide solutions that will realize a sustainable society tomorrow through a deeper understanding of the issues facing society and ourcustomers todayWhile digitalization and development of AI and other technologies are rapidly accelerating, the future of thesocial environment surrounding us is uncertain due to increasing complexity and volatility caused by naturaldisasters, climate change, geopolitical risks and so on. Given this context, Hitachi High-Tech Group believesthat the crucial first step in changing the world and shaping the future is to deeply understand the rootcauses occurring around society and our customers, so that we can identify the hidden problems that areunrecognized by our customers and partners.Hitachi High-Tech has cultivated a variety of “Power of Knowledge” over the years, including Observation, Measurement, and Analysis technologies, global network, world-class products, and co-creative relationships with our customers and partners. By leveraging our "Power of Knowledge," eachemployee of Hitachi High-Tech Group will continue to provide solutions for the issues facing society andour customers today to realize a sustainable society tomorrow.About Hitachi High-Tech’s Corporate Vision and MissionSee here for more details. Corporate Vision: Hitachi High-Tech Corporation Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Strengthening Our Analytical Business to Solve Social Issues with Our Core TechnologiesTOKYO, Apr 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi High-Tech Corporation ("Hitachi High-Tech") is strengthening its analytical businessthrough integrating and jointly operating its Hitachi High-Tech Analytical Science Ltd. ("Hitachi High-Tech Analytical Science") and Hitachi High-Tech Science Corporation ("Hitachi High-Tech Science") businesses.As of April 1, 2025, Hitachi High-Tech Science will become Hitachi High-Tech Analysis Corporation as part of this re-structure.By integrating the core technologies of both companies, we will be better equipped to address the increasingly complex processes involved in developing, manufacturing, and inspecting materials that our customers encounter. Bringing together X-ray fluorescence (XRF), optical emission spectroscopy (OES), laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), thermal analysis (TA), liquid chromatography and spectrophotometers from Hitachi High-Tech Analytical Science and Hitachi High-Tech Science will facilitate the development of new, innovative solutions.Initiatives to create a safe and secure society, and reducing environmental impact are becoming increasingly important across a wide range of business fields including healthcare, semiconductors and electronic components, and batteries. The analytical division and beam technology division, which includes electron microscopes, are key to supportingHitachi High- Tech Group's Core Technology Solutions business. The Core Technology Solutions division leverages its expertise in Observation, Measurement, and Analysis to offer specialized solutions for measurement and inspection. These solutions support the R&D, manufacturing, and quality control processes, helping to address both customer and societal challenges.Whilst manufacturing processes are becoming more complex, waste reduction, circular economy and preservation of raw materials are key to a more sustainable, global industry.Hitachi High-Tech Group will use the “Power of Knowledge” it possesses to know accurately and leveraging deepunderstandings the genuine issues of society and customers, and we will contribute to create a sustainable society by solving these issues.About Hitachi High-Tech ScienceHitachi High-Tech Science supports a wide range of R&D and quality control operations through the development, manufacture, sale and maintenance of various analytical instruments for physical property analysis (thermal analysis,spectroscopy), elemental analysis (X-ray fluorescence, ICP, atomic absorption) and organic analysis (liquid chromatographs), along with the sale of related parts and consumables.About Hitachi High-Tech Analytical ScienceHitachi High-Tech Analytical Science, with locations in the UK, Germany, Finland and China, specializes in a widerange of connect materials analysis products and services for use in the lab or in-field. Our advanced, cutting-edge XRF,LIBS and OES solutions enable fast, accurate decisions during the production process whether they relate to raw material sourcing, quality control, end of life disposal or recycling.Contact:Osamu MatsuzawaBusiness Planning Department, Business Management Division Hitachi High-Tech Science CorporationE-mail: osamu.matsuzawa.wp@hitachi-hightech.com Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi High-Tech Corporation announced that the new production facility for semiconductormanufacturing equipment (etch systems), which had been under construction since December 2023 in the Kasado area (Kudamatsu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture), was completed and started the operation on March 17, 2025.We aim to increase production capacity through digitalized and automated production lines in the new productionfacility. In addition, a comfortable work environment has been created with employee well-being taken into account, while achieving carbon neutrality through the use of renewable energy.Semiconductor-related markets are expected to continue to grow and expand due to increasing demand for generativeAI and autonomous driving in the future. With the start of the new production facility's operation, we will continue tocreate new value and solve customers’ issues by shortening development periods, reducing costs, and improving productivity.Hitachi High-Tech will continue to pursue and create new value together with our customers in order to contribute to sustainable industrial development that supports cutting-edge manufacturing and digital society, and to the realization of a sustainable society by solving social issues.About Hitachi High-TechHitachi High-Tech, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is engaged in activities in a broad range of fields, including manufacture and sales of clinical analyzers, biotechnology products, radiation therapy systems, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, analytical instruments, and analysis equipment. Also, we provide high value-added solutions in industrial fields such as mobility, connected, environment and energy, etc. Through business based on our core Observation, Measurement and Analysis technologies, we will contribute to the realization of a sustainable society by solving social issues.The company's consolidated revenues for FY2023 were approx. JPY 670.4 billion. For further information, visit https://www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/en/Contact:Kasado General Affairs Dept.,Human Resources & General Affairs Div., Hitachi High-Tech CorporationTel: +81-833-41-8704 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) has developed and successfully demonstrated a technology that enables face recognition without storing patients' facial information and ensures traceability through the entire workflow process for personalized cancer vaccine. Moreover, NEC has developed and successfully demonstrated a new technology that requires minimal validation data to effectively manage sensitive information.This initiative marks a world-first accomplishment that is aligned with the practical workflow expected for personalized cancer vaccine therapies (1).Personalized cancer vaccines are developed by analyzing genomic data on a patient's tissue and blood samples, making accurate administration crucial since each vaccine is tailored to the individual. The workflow for these vaccines is more complex than that of conventional vaccines and is expected to expand as the number of patients increases. Therefore, integrating ICT into the workflow is essential to enhance safety and efficiency, facilitating the realization and widespread adoption of personalized cancer vaccine therapies.In addition to advancing personalized cancer vaccines through AI, NEC has also developed technologies to enhance vaccine manufacturing management. Furthermore, NEC has been actively involved in comprehensive ICT-based activities to produce personalized cancer vaccine therapies, including the publication of a white paper (2).NEC has now developed and demonstrated the following technologies for in-house PoCs.Workflow for Personalized Cancer Vaccines1. Biometric based digital signature that enables face recognition and ensures traceability without storing facial information (3)Since personalized cancer vaccines are developed based on patients' genomic data, they must be administered to the correct patient without any mix-ups, requiring highly reliable identification. In addition to verifying patients’ names and IDs, biometric recognition can further enhance identification reliability when collecting samples or administering vaccines. However, the use of biometric recognition requires the secure management of biometric information.NEC has developed a proprietary digital signature technology that enables face recognition without storing facial information. This is accomplished by converting the feature information of facial images into key information. This technology enables authentication using key information, enhancing the reliability of vaccine administration without the risk of misuse or leakage of sensitive facial information. In addition, the digital signature generated by this technology can be used to verify and trace the correct patient identification at the time of vaccine administration, without using facial information.Identification utilizing a biometric based digital signature2. Tampering detection technology that reduces the amount of validation data required to securely store sensitive informationSince personalized cancer vaccines are developed based on a patient's genomic data, ensuring the authenticity of the data is important. One solution is to use a tampering detection technology that attaches validation tag data to verify the genomic data. However, a large amount of genomic data and an enormous amount of tag data are required when large amounts of patient data need to be managed. Therefore, conventional tampering detection technologies face difficulties with tag data verification time and storage cost.NEC has developed a tampering detection technology that reduces the amount of validation tag data by grouping genomic data and assigning validation tags accordingly. This technology reduces the amount of tag data by 90% while maintaining the same level of tamper detection accuracy as the conventional methods of assigning tag data to each genomic data. Consequently, it lowers the storage cost of tag data while ensuring the authenticity of patient genomic data.Tampering detection for the genomic and vaccine data with minimal validation dataTo verify the capabilities of these technologies, NEC built an environment that simulates the actual workflow for personalized cancer vaccines. In tests that simulated mix-ups of patients or samples, it was confirmed that the biometric based digital signature technology can correctly detect a mix-up before a vaccine is administered, and that the tampering detection technology can detect if genomic data has been tampered with.Looking ahead, NEC will continue to approach the production of personalized cancer vaccine therapies from various perspectives, including further research and development based on these results.(1) According to an NEC survey as of April 1, 2025(2) NEC white paper proposes a comprehensive process workflow for the application of AI-driven personalized cancer vaccines: www.nec.com/en/press/202404/global_20240408_01.html(3) NEC develops biometric based digital signature technology that enables face recognition without storing facial information: www.nec.com/en/press/202502/global_20250226_03.html About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced the launch of Miland, a virtual car lifestyle app that connects users and their friends, in the Japanese market(1) today. The app was developed in collaboration with JP UNIVERSE Inc.(2)In its mid-term business plan "Challenge 2025," Mitsubishi Motors has set creating seamless and efficient touchpoints with customers through digital transformation (DX) as a key strategy. The plan particularly focuses on Generation Z, who are digital natives and will become the core automotive purchasing and user group in 10 years, as well as business transformation and the creation of new businesses using digital technologies. To achieve this, open innovation, or co-creation, is positioned as a key measure, involving the development of new services through collaboration with a diverse range of people and technologies both inside and outside the company.The name of the service, Miland, is derived from the phrase “unexplored lands created by Mitsubishi Motors,” and was coined in the hope that people would discover new ways to enjoy cars in unexplored territories. It enables young people, particularly Generation Z, who do not own cars to experience the joy of having a car. In the virtual world, users can enjoy owning cars, driving with friends, and customizing their vehicles. Developed in collaboration with JP UNIVERSE, a group of creators specializing in immersive space services, the app offers a highly immersive and enjoyable experience.FeaturesEasily own cars in the virtual world- Users can own digital cars and garages, allowing for a simulated experience of car ownership. If converted to a Non-Fungible Token (NFT), the car becomes a personal asset, and can be bought and sold on the NFT marketplace(3) OpenSea, operated by Ozone Networks, Inc.Experience driving interactions with friends similar to social networking- Even when in different locations, users can communicate with friends as if they are driving together in the same space or vehicle. With map designs that offer unique virtual environments, users can drive along distinctive courses. It is also possible for users to drive together with a common mission.Customize cars in various ways- Cars can be customized by changing their color or adding stickers. Users can also personalize their cars with limited-time or mission-exclusive stickers. In addition, events and other special activities are planned for the future.Service introduction page (in Japanese only): https://relight-lab.mitsubishi-motors.com/milandtopTo expand the value of automobiles in line with the changing values of users brought about by digitization, Mitsubishi Motors has also launched the "Relight Lab" open innovation site today. This site will serve as a platform to implement new digital services, and seeks top runners in emerging technologies in the digital world as well as those skilled at building new digital services. By combining technology and ambition, the aim is to achieve open innovation, leading to the creation of new services from Mitsubishi Motors.Website (in Japanese only): https://relight-lab.mitsubishi-motors.com(1) The app is offered in Japanese and is available only in the Japanese market.(2) JP UNIVERSE Inc. (Representative: Hajime Tabata, CEO) was established on February 8, 2022. The company provides gamification platforms, game commerce, platform provision and operation, and XR production.(3) Available from early AprilAbout Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors Corporation (TSE:7211) — a member of the Alliance with Renault and Nissan — is a global automobile company based in Tokyo, Japan, which has about 28,000 employees and a global footprint with production facilities in Japan and the ASEAN region. Mitsubishi Motors has a competitive edge in SUVs, pickup trucks and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and appeals to ambitious drivers willing to challenge convention and embrace innovation. Since the production of our first vehicle more than a century ago, Mitsubishi Motors has been a leader in electrification — launched the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle in 2009, followed by the Outlander PHEV, the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV in 2013. With a target of increasing the sales ratio of electrified vehicles to 100% by 2035, Mitsubishi Motors will deliver models that embody Mitsubishi Motors-ness and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.For more information on Mitsubishi Motors, please visit the company's website at www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/ Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), Mitsubishi Corporation Urban Development Co., Ltd. (MCUD), and iPark Institute Co., Ltd. (iPi) are pleased to announce our joint development of a new, rental-lab-type R&D facility in Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster (KBIC). The facility, which has been tentatively named "iPark Kobe," will augment progress being made in KBIC to establish a community based on institutions dedicated to research and development. MCUD signed an agreement today with Kobe's municipal authorities to purchase land for the facility's construction on Kobe Port Island, which is owned by Kobe City.Growth in semiconductors, medical treatment and other cutting-edge industries has accelerated in recent years, which has given rise to the formation of unique industrial zones due to the large number of R&D interests and related businesses. As a consequence, facilities engaged in research and development are rapidly becoming the epicenters of new communities.Kobe City began developing KBIC in 1998 to promote an accumulation of medical care-related entities, including R&D facilities, hospitals and private enterprises. Now boasting more than 350 resident organizations, KBIC has grown into one of the largest medical care industrial clusters in Japan, making it a leading example of MC's mission to position advanced industries at the core of its urban development work.The land-purchase agreement was reached due to KBIC being the ideal location for the first "iPark" drug-discovery and bioresearch facility to be established outside Japan's Shonan region. MC, MCUD and iPi all have strong track records when it comes to advanced-industry facilities.MCUD has a wealth of expertise in developing high-performance distribution warehouses and shared manufacturing and R&D centers, while iPi has demonstrated its management capabilities in operating the Shonan iPark science park.Our three companies look forward to combining our respective know-how and networks to develop and manage iPark Kobe in ways that will help Kobe City achieve its community-building mission in KBIC. We are committed to exploring ideas that can drive further innovation and lead to more large-scale urban development projects that are built around R&D facilities.Outline of the Project SiteThe site is located in Kobe Medical Industry City, the second phase of Kobe Port Island, and will be directly connected to Kobe New Transit Port Liner Keisan Kagaku Center Station by a connecting deck. It is accessible in about 16 minutes from Sannomiya Station, which is the city's largest shopping district and transportation node, and in about 6 minutes from Kobe Airport Station.Inquiry RecipientMitsubishi CorporationTelephone: +81-3-3210-2171 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today that it has entered into an agreement to divest the rights for proton pump inhibitor Pariet® (generic name: rabeprazole sodium) in China to Beijing Peak Biology Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., a CBC Group-controlled company. Peak Pharma has commenced marketing activities, while Eisai will manage the transfer of manufacturing and marketing authorizations during atransition period.Under the terms of the agreement, Eisai will receive RMB725 million (approximately 15.7 billion JPY1) as contractual upfront payments, as well as the rights to receive a sales milestone payment. The upfront payments have already been recorded in the third quarter of Eisai’s fiscal year ending March 31, 2025.Eisai expects no changes to its consolidated financial forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025.Pariet is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) discovered and developed by Eisai, approved in more than 100 countries and regions worldwide. Pariet was approved in China in 2000 and is indicated forgastrointestinal disorders including gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, and reflux esophagitis. With the conclusion of this agreement, Eisai believes that CBC Group’s proven 'investor-operator' approach and commitment to delivering quality healthcare to a wide range of patients will maximize the value of Pariet in China.The agreement will enable Eisai to strategically reallocate resources to other mid-to-long-term business growth areas so as to continue to make further contributions to address the diversified needs of, andincrease the benefits provided to, patients and their families.1 Exchange rate: 1 RMB = 21.67 JPY (as of December 31, 2024)About CBC GroupHeadquartered in Singapore, CBC Group is Asia's largest healthcare-dedicated asset management firm, with an AUMof US$9 billion. With a diversified, multi-product strategy, CBC Group is focused on platform-building, buyout, privatecredit and royalties, and real estate, across the healthcare space, including pharmaceutical, biotech, medical technology, and healthcare services. We are committed to creating lasting value by integrating global innovations andtalents. Partnering with the world's top entrepreneurs and scientists, our unique “investor-operator” approach has empowered leading healthcare companies to widen access to affordable medical care, catalyse innovations, and improve efficiencies in fulfilling unmet medical needs worldwide.For more information on CBC Group, please visit www.cbridgecap.com/. Connect with us on LinkedIn (CBC Group).Media Inquiries:Public Relations Department, Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Mar 28, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Everbright Grand China Assets Limited, a property leasing, property management and sales of properties held for sale company under China Everbright Group ("Everbright Grand China Assets" or the "Group", Hong Kong Stock Exchange stock code: 3699) today announced the annual results for the year ended 31 December 2024 (the "Year under Review").During the Year under Review, the Group's revenue was approximately RMB45.9 million (2023: approximately RMB46.8 million), representing a decrease of approximately 1.9% as compared to last year, mainly due to the decline in rental income. The profit attributable to equity shareholders of the Company amounted to approximately RMB25.3 million (2023: approximately RMB19.3 million), representing an increase of approximately 31.1% as compared to last year. The increase in profit was mainly due to foreign exchange (primarily including bank deposits denominated in currencies other than RMB) gains during the year. The basic earnings per share was approximately RMB0.06 (2023: RMB0.04). The Board has proposed to pay a final dividend of RMB1.05 cents per share (equivalent to HK1.14 cents) (2023:RMB0.60 cents) for the year ended 31 December 2024 and a special dividend of RMB0.34 cents per share (equivalent to HK0.37 cents) (2023: Nil). Together with the interim dividend of RMB0.78 cents per share, the full year dividend amounts to RMB2.17 cents per share (2023: RMB1.66 cents per share).As at 31 December 2024, the Group had current assets of approximately RMB239.9 million (2023: approximately RMB231.4 million). The increase in current assets was mainly due to the rise in cash and bank balances during the year. The Group had current liabilities of RMB19.9 million (2023: approximately RMB25.8 million). The decrease in current liabilities was mainly due to the reduction in rental income received in advance during the year.Property LeasingThe rental income from the Group?s property leasing business was approximately RMB30.5 million for the year ended 31 December 2024 (2023: RMB33.2 million). Due to the decline in the average rent per square meter (?sq.m.?) and the provision of rental subsidies to tenants, the total rental income decreased. The Group?s leasing properties are located in Chengdu, Sichuan Province and Kunming, Yunnan Province in the PRC. As at 31 December 2024, the Group?s property portfolio comprises three commercial buildings, namely Everbright Financial Center, part of Everbright International Mansion and Ming Chang Building, with a total gross floor area (?GFA?) of approximately 89,507 square meters.Property Management ServiceThe Group provides property management services for its properties, namely Everbright Financial Center and Everbright International Mansion. Revenue from the Group?s property management services was approximately RMB15.4 million for the year ended 31 December 2024 (2023: RMB13.5 million). During the year, the increase in revenue from property management services was due to the increase in restaurant income. As at 31 December 2024, the total GFA under the Group?s management was 72,534 sq.m.Investment PropertiesThe Group's investment properties primarily consist of land and/or buildings which are owned or held under a leasehold interest to earn rental income and/or for capital appreciation. As at 31 December 2024, the fair value of the investment properties was RMB967.1 million (2023: RMB959.5 million), representing an increase of approximately 0.8%. For the year ended 31 December 2024, the valuation gain on investment properties amounted to approximately RMB6.6 million (2023: approximately RMB5.3 million).PROSPECTSLooking back at 2024, the global economy is on its way to resuming normalcy after experiencing two consecutive years of slowdown. However, the growth rate remains relatively weak, and the growth momentum is cooling down. Nevertheless, in the first half of 2024, the Chinese economy started off on a positive note. Despite the weakened growth momentum, the relatively steady Chinese economy has been supported by a continuous improvement in economic conditions.With the slowdown in real estate market investment, the area of new housing starts, the area of housing completions and the sales area of newly built commodity houses have continued to slow down, thereby affecting the growth rate of the property management industry. The development strategy of property management enterprises has undergone significant changes, with future growth in management scale no longer being the core focus, and the emphasis gradually shifting towards service quality and value-added business.The Group's commercial properties have been relatively less affected by the fluctuations in the real estate market over the past year, with tenants and lease agreements, as well as rental rates, maintaining a relatively stable trend, enabling the Group to sustain a relatively stable performance in the market.Looking ahead, in the face of the current operating environment, the Group will continue to rise to the challenge, fully leveraging the synergy with its parent company, China Everbright Group, and capitalizing on the recognition of the "Everbright" brand to develop diversified value-added services. On the one hand, the Group will strive to increase revenue sources; on the other hand, it will actively enhance brand influence, seize opportunities during the industry adjustment period, further strengthen its capabilities, consolidate competitiveness and risk resistance, and aim to become a robust enterprise with long-term sustainable development. Despite the numerous challenges faced by the real estate and property management industry in 2024, the Group remains confident about the future due to policy support and the gradual recovery of the market. The Group will actively explore new development opportunities on the basis of stable operations to create greater value for the Company's shareholders. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co., Ltd (MHIEC), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has received an order from the Nanbu Wide-area Administration in Okinawa Prefecture for a full refurbishment of its Itotoyo Environmental Improvement Center (Tsukazato, Itoman City). The order calls for renovation of the facility's stoker type incinerator, capable of processing 200 tonnes per day (tpd) (Note1), to extend the plant's service life, enhance its energy efficiency, and reduce CO2 emissions. The contract is valued at 1.506 billion yen (tax excluded), with completion scheduled for March 2026.The Itotoyo Environmental Improvement Center was originally designed and constructed by MHI. On completion in March 1998, the facility incorporated two stoker type incinerators, each providing a processing capacity of 100 tpd, plus related equipment.The purpose of this project is to upgrade the main equipment of the aging water supply equipment, electrical instruments, and exhaust gas treatment equipment and enhance energy efficiency through the adoption of high-efficiency motors and transformers. A new steam turbine with a generating capacity of 295kW will be installed and effective use will be made of excess steam from the boiler to reduce electricity purchasing. The project aims to reduce annual CO2 emissions by 3% or more from the previous year. The durability of the exhaust gas treatment facilities will be improved and chemical usage will be reduced through the adoption of a proprietary Hybrid Bag Filter® (HBF) made of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) from MHIEC(Note2), which utilizes filter cloth used in dust collection filters, achieving world-leading removal of dioxins. This will also contribute to reduction of life-cycle costs (LCC).In recent years, there has been an increase in refurbishment work to extend the service life of waste-to-energy facilities and address climate change. To facilitate further work of this nature, the Ministry of the Environment has established subsidies for waste-to-energy facilities(Note3) for purposes such as assisting waste-to-energy facilities in the adoption of advanced equipment.MHIEC succeeded MHI's environmental protection business in 2008, taking over its accumulated technological development capabilities in environmental protection systems and abundant expertise in the construction, operation, and maintenance of waste management facilities both in Japan and overseas. Based on this robust track record, the company is well positioned to propose comprehensive solutions encompassing all aspects from plant construction to operation and maintenance. Based on this project and its past record, MHIEC will continue to seek order expansion through proactive offering of proposals for enhancing the efficiency of existing facilities, maintaining and improving the stability of operations, and lowering LCC.1A stoker furnace is the main type of waste-to-energy plant. Air is supplied from below a fire grate made of heat-resistant castings to propel the materials to be burned (waste, etc.).2Bag filter fibers are coated with a catalytic agent to maintain their standard function of removing toxic materials while improving their functionality through the additional ability to break down dioxin gases and NOx (nitrogen oxides).3Municipal governments seeking to extend the service life of their waste-to-energy facilities and implement climate change countermeasures are eligible for subsidies on projects that will reduce CO2 emissions (promoting the introduction of leading-edge facilities), or grants for establishing a sound material-cycle society, equivalent to one-half or one-third of project costs.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Apr 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has concluded a Mizuho Eco Finance(1) commitment line agreement(2) with Mizuho Bank, Ltd. (Mizuho Bank).Mizuho Eco Finance is a program from Mizuho Bank that uses an environmental assessment model developed by Mizuho Research & Technologies Co., Ltd., which incorporates globally trusted environmental certifications and evaluations to score the initiatives and indices of customers, and provide financing to those customers who meet a certain score or higher.For this agreement, MHI Group was assessed as meeting a high standard for the indicators used in the evaluation model, including its endorsement of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD)(3) in March 2019, the MISSION NET ZERO declaration aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2040, and appropriate disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions throughout the supply chain.The MHI Group aims to contribute to the sustainable enhancement of corporate value and the realization of a sustainable society by leveraging the Group's comprehensive capabilities and strengths to enrich people's lives.(1) Mizuho Eco Finance www.mizuhogroup.com/sustainability/environment/business/financing(2) Commitment line agreementA contract in which the lender promises to execute a loan at the borrower's request within the conditions of the contracted term and credit line.(3) TCFD Disclosure www.mhi.com/sustainability/environment/climate_tcfd.htmlAbout MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Mar 31, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NTT Corporation, Biome Inc., NTT Com, NTT COMWARE, NTT DATA and NTT DOCOMO announced today that they have jointly begun developing technology enabling the large-scale estimation*1 of vegetation*2 and biological organisms through remote sensing*3. By combining NTT Group's assets, including satellite image data analysis technology,*4 with Biome's real-time “BiomeDB” database of organisms, one of the largest in Japan with over 8.5 million entries, they aim to establish comprehensive and continuous methods for collecting and analyzing data related to vegetation and organisms. This initiative will support biodiversity monitoring and contribute to achieving a nature-positive*5 society.1. BackgroundOf the total value added*6 within the global economy, some USD 44 trillion (almost half of global GDP), depends on natural capital*7 such as forests and soil. However, the degradation of biodiversity, which supports this natural capital, is progressing at an unprecedented rate*8. Against this backdrop, interest in biodiversity conservation and the nature-positive sector has been rising globally, especially following the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework*9 at the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in 2022.In Japan, the government has formulated its Nature Positive Economy Transition Strategy*10, and there is an expectation for diverse stakeholders, including businesses, government, and citizens, to work towards realizing a nature-positive economy. To achieve this, companies need to understand and assess the current state of natural capital and engage in continuous monitoring and conservation activities based on international demands from bodies such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD)*11. However, relying solely on open data for understanding and monitoring can sometimes be insufficient in terms of update frequency and accuracy, necessitating the continuation of resource-intensive on-site surveys. To address these challenges, the six companies behind this initiative are initiating a demonstration project.2. Project outlinea. ActivitiesIn addition to utilizing satellite image data, biological data held by Biome and actual field data, such as vegetation and biological data owned by local governments, the project will estimate the vegetation, species composition, and distribution in specific regions based on high-frequency, broad coverage across Japan, with a granularity aligned with international frameworks and standards.b. Field demonstrationsAt “Docomo Sennan Horigo no Mori” forest in Sennan City, Osaka managed by NTT Docomo starting in January 2025Objective: To verify the feasibility of using satellites to track the condition of forests and surrounding ecosystems.Through this demonstration, NTT Docomo will explore new methods of visualizing biodiversity and conducting long-term monitoring to promote the conservation of the forest, which has been certified as a “Nature Coexistence Site”*12 by the Ministry of the Environment of Japan. Additionally, they will evaluate the potential for utilizing these methods for future monitoring around Docomo's base stations.At the Asahi Forest in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, managed by Asahi Group Japan starting in April 2025Objective: To verify large-scale estimation technology and establish business use cases.Through this demonstration, Asahi Group Japan will conduct verification to explore new methods for the sustainable visualization of biodiversity and long-term monitoring of the forest based on Asahi Group Environmental Principles.3. Roles of each memberNTT Corp:Overall project managementBiome Inc.:Provision of ecosystem data, sharing of insights on biodiversity, and exploration of service commercializationNTT Com:Implementation of field demonstrations, exploration of business use cases, and consideration of service commercializationNTT COMWARE:Comprehensive data analysis and accuracy verificationNTT DATA:Provision of high-resolution satellite image data (AW3D)*13NTT DOCOMO:Provision of field sites and verification of business use cases4. Future developmentGoing forward, the participating companies will explore specific business use cases such as formulating “landscape strategies”*14 for local governments, supporting companies in transitioning to nature-positive management, and assisting in data collection for the preparation of companies' integrated reports. Additionally, they will conduct discussions with a wide range of local governments and companies with the aim of developing a high-coverage, high-accuracy biodiversity platform that can help support their biodiversity strategy development and quantitative evaluation of natural capital.In conjunction with the commencement of this development, NTT DOCOMO Ventures, an NTT Group corporate venture capital firm, has invested in Biome through a fund it manages*15. With this investment, the collaboration between Biome and NTT Group will be strengthened, creating new value through the exploration of nature-positive business opportunities and collaborative research.(1) Broad-area estimation involves analyzing data obtained from instruments such as satellites and aircraft to assess conditions over large areas.(2) Vegetation refers to the range of plant species in a particular area on the Earth's land surfaces, such as forests, grasslands, croplands, and wastelands.(3) Remote sensing is a technology used to measure the shape and characteristics of objects from a distance.(4) NTT Group provides satellite data under its space business brand “NTT C89,” which stands for the NTT CONSTELLATION 89 PROJECT, an initiative aimed at expanding its space-related business and contributing to the overall development of the space industry through the provision of solutions. NTT C89 is a trademark of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation.URL: New windowhttps://group.ntt/en/aerospace/(5) Nature-positive refers to the concept of halting biodiversity loss and stimulating recovery.(6) The total added value refers to the total amount of value created by companies through their business activities.(7) Reference: PDFNature Positive Economy Transition Strategy, Ministry of Environment, Government of Japan(8) Reference: PDFGlobal Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, IPBES(9) The “Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework” is a new set of global biodiversity targets adopted in December 2022. Its mission for 2030 is to “halt and reverse biodiversity loss,” essentially aiming for a “nature-positive” outcome, which involves the restoration and enhancement of natural ecosystems.(10) Japan's “Transition Strategies toward Nature Positive Economy,” approved by the Cabinet in March 2024, outlines a vision and pathway for transitioning to an economy that conserves nature by changing the behaviors of businesses, financial institutions, and consumers.(11) TNFD is an international initiative aimed at developing a framework for companies and organizations to assess and disclose the impact of their economic activities on the natural environment and biodiversity.(12) Nature Coexistence Site is an area recognized by the Japanese government where biodiversity conservation is achieved through private initiatives and other efforts. These designated areas, excluding overlaps with protected areas, are registered in the international database as OECM (Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures). Source: Ministry of Environment of Japan.(13) AW3D: a 3D digital world map - see New window https://www.aw3d.jp/en/(14) A landscape strategy is an approach that comprehensively addresses various human activities and the natural environment within a specific region or space, based on land and spatial planning, to solve challenges.(15) Press release: March 27, 2025 NTT & NTT DOCOMO VENTURES “New window Investment in Biome Inc., Biodiversity Big Data Platform Operator”About NTTNTT contributes to a sustainable society through the power of innovation. We are a leading global technology company providing services to consumers and businesses as a mobile operator, infrastructure, networks, applications, and consulting provider. Our offerings include digital business consulting, managed application services, workplace and cloud solutions, data center and edge computing, all supported by our deep global industry expertise. We are over $97B in revenue and 330,000 employees, with $3.6B in annual R&D investments. Our operations span across 80+ countries and regions, allowing us to serve clients in over 190 of them. We serve over 75% of Fortune Global 100 companies, thousands of other enterprise and government clients and millions of consumers.About Biome Inc.Biome Inc., one of Japan's largest biodiversity databases, accelerates biodiversity data collection, real-time monitoring, and species conservation through an engaging and accessible gamified citizen science platform. Millions of data points are validated using state-of-the-art, AI-driven technologies, which are refined and verified by local biologists and experts.Our services connect species presence and distribution predictions to key metrics such as extinction risks, ecosystem condition indicators, and impact analyses. By doing so, Biome Inc. has supported over 400 projects across Japan and Asia, spanning public, corporate, and financial initiatives, as well as reporting for disclosures, conservation efforts, and nature-positive targets.biome.co.jp/en/About NTT CommunicationsFounded in 1999, NTT Communications provides a comprehensive range of ICT services, leveraging our leading-edge infrastructure and technical expertise. Our solutions span networks, cloud, data centers, applications, security, and AI. In 2022, we became the core provider of enterprise services within the NTT DOCOMO Group. Under the "docomo business" brand, we drive the global-scale transformation of industries by utilizing 5G, IoT, and other advanced technologies. We also support the creation of new workstyles and the digital transformation of local communities. https://www.ntt.com/en/index.htmlAbout NTT COMWARENTT COMWARE envisions a future that is friendly to people and society and contributes to the realization of an affluent world where people can connect each other. NTT COMWARE will enhance its network platform for the next generation, bring about social and industrial structural changes, drive business expansion of the DOCOMO Group, and promote DX of the NTT Group based on the quality and reliability that have supported Japan's social infrastructure. For details, please visit here.https://www.nttcom.co.jp/english/about/value/About NTT DATANTT DATA is a $30+ billion trusted global innovator of business and technology services. We serve 75% of the Fortune Global 100 and are committed to helping clients innovate, optimize and transform for long-term success. As a Global Top Employer, we have diverse experts in more than 50 countries and a robust partner ecosystem of established and start-up companies. Our services include business and technology consulting, data and artificial intelligence, industry solutions, as well as the development, implementation and management of applications, infrastructure and connectivity. We are also one of the leading providers of digital and AI infrastructure in the world. NTT DATA is part of NTT Group, which invests over $3.6 billion each year in R&D to help organizations and society move confidently and sustainably into the digital future. Visit us at nttdata.com.About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 90 million subscribers, is one of the global leaders in 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Under the slogan “Bridging Worlds for Wonder & Happiness,” DOCOMO is actively collaborating with global partners to expand its business scope from mobile services to comprehensive solutions, aiming to deliver unsurpassed value and drive innovation in technology and communications, ultimately to support positive change and advancement in global society.https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/ Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Mar 31, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The TANAKA Memorial Foundation’s Representative Director, Hideya Okamoto, announced the recipients of the FY2024 Precious Metals Research Grants.Following a rigorous screening process, Ichiro Tanaka Awards, for 3 million yen each, were presented to Assistant Professor Akihiro Ishii of Tohoku University and Professor Yu Matsuda of Waseda University. In addition, three research projects received the Innovative Precious Metals Award, and six KIRAMEKI Awards were presented.The TANAKA Memorial Foundation undertakes programs designed to foster developments in new precious metal fields while contributing to the advancement of science, technology, and socio-economics for the overall enrichment of society. The research grant program was launched in FY1999 and has continued each year since with the goal of supporting the various challenges of the “new world opened up by precious metals. “Forging a better tomorrow with ‘Hirameki’ and ‘Kirameki’" was adopted as the catchphrase for this year, the program’s 26th year. Applications were invited for research and development themes that contribute toward the continued creation of a better future using the creativity of researchers and the potential of precious metals. As a result, a total of 238 applications were received, and a total of 27 research grants of 19.8 million yen was awarded.The names of the recipients of the Ichiro Tanaka Award, their research, and the reasons for their selection are below.Ichiro Tanaka AwardAssistant Professor Akihiro Ishii of Tohoku UniversityNew developments in Half-Heusler compounds as highly refractive transparent materialsThis research led to the theoretical discovery that Half-Heusler compounds, including rhodium, iridium, platinum, gold, and other precious metals, become highly refractive materials that are transparent in the near infrared range. The research was highly rated for presenting a new method for using precious metals, and for its possible application to a wide range of technologies, including sensors for use in photoelectric conversion devices and automated driving technologies, and exposure equipment used in semiconductor manufacturing.Ichiro Tanaka AwardProfessor Yu Matsuda of Waseda UniversityEstablishment of a temperature measurement technique for highly efficient operation of cryogenic fluids using ruthenium complexesThis research seeks to develop a technique for measuring temperature distribution observed in the cryogenic range, which is not possible using infrared light, by using the fluorescence of ruthenium complexes. With increasing demand for liquefied natural gas and liquid hydrogen over recent years, the research was highly rated for presenting an innovative technique able to measure the temperature distribution data required when designing equipment for improving the efficiency of transporting and operating such materials, and as research and development that can contribute significantly toward carbon neutrality.Three Innovative Precious Metals Awards, six KIRAMEKI Awards, and 16 HIRAMEKI Awards were also granted. The recipients and an overview of the Precious Metals Research Grants are indicated below. Applications for the FY2025 research grants are scheduled to open in the fall.List of FY2024 Precious Metals Research Grants RecipientsOverview of the 2024 Precious Metals Research GrantsConditionsNew research and development that uses precious metals or can be applied to precious metals, contributes to the creation of a sustainable future, and falls under any of the following- New technology related to precious metals (new materials, processing methods, process development, etc.)- Research that brings about innovative evolution in product development (new functions, process development, computational science, etc.)- Research and development of new products using precious metals- Effective technologies for creating a well-balanced and prosperous society* Precious metal refers to eight elements of platinum, gold, silver, palladium, rhodium, iridium, ruthenium and osmium.* If development is conducted jointly (or planned to be) with other material manufacturers, please indicate so.* Products that have already been commercialized, put to practical use, or that are planned are not eligible.Grant Amounts (Maximum amounts from a grant pool of 20 million yen)Umekichi Tanaka Award10 million yenIchiro Tanaka Award (Previously Gold Award)3 million yenInnovative Precious Metals Award (Previously Silver Award)1 million yenKIRAMEKI Award (Previously Young Researcher Award)1 million yenHIRAMEKI Award (Previously TANAKA Special Award)300,000 yen*The grant amount is treated as a scholarship donation.*Awards may not be granted in some cases.Note: Names of the Gold Award, Silver Award, Young Researcher Award, and TANAKA Special Award have changed from this year.Eligible Candidates- Personnel who belong to (or work for) educational institutions in Japan (universities, graduate schools, or technical colleges) or public and related research institutions may participate.*As long as the applicant is affiliated with a research institution in Japan, the base of activity can be in Japan or overseas.*The KIRAMEKI Awards are for researchers under the age of 37 as of April 1, 2024.Application Period- 9am, September 2, 2024 (Mon) - 5pm, November 30, 2024 (Sat)Inquiries Concerning the Research Grant ProgramPrecious Metals Research Grants OfficeGlobal Marketing / R&D Supervisory Department, TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIES Co., Ltd.2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0025E-mail: joseikin@ml.tanaka.co.jpTANAKA Memorial Foundation website: https://tanaka-foundation.or.jpTANAKA Memorial FoundationOrganization Name: TANAKA Kikinzoku Memorial FoundationAddress: 22F Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, TokyoRepresentative: Hideya Okamoto (Special Advisor, TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.)Incorporated: 2015Purpose of Business: To provide grants for research related to precious metals to contribute to the development and cultivation of new fields for precious metals, and to the development of science, technology, and the social economy.Areas of Business: Provision of grants for scientific and technological research related to precious metals. Recognition of excellent analysis of precious metals and holding of seminars and other events.TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIES Co., Ltd.Headquarters: 2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, TokyoRepresentative: Koichiro Tanaka, Group CEOFounded: 1885Incorporated: 1918Capital: 500 million yenEmployees: 2,798 (Including overseas subsidiaries) (December 31, 2024)Sales: 353,213,723,000 yen (FY2024)Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.comPress InquiriesTANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/Press release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20250331_EN.pdf Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Mar 31, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Faster and highly accurate AI models will be available and accessible to students through a strategic partnership between global digital transformation leader, Fujitsu, and Macquarie University.The collaboration, formed through an established strategic partnership, will offer university-developed AI micro credentials via Macquarie University’s online learning platforms as well as popular platforms including LinkedIn Learning and Udemy, allowing students, researchers and industry professionals around the world access to Fujitsu’s proprietary AutoML technology while developing valuable knowledge and skills in automated machine learning.The new four-week online course, “Fujitsu AutoML: Mastering Automated Machine Learning” will open for registrations. The course is tailored to bridge the gap in AI education and will teach basic theory with practical exercises on topics including automated machine learning, models and algorithms using the Fujitsu AutoML tool.Accelerating AI implementation process with Fujitsu AutoML technologyThe Fujitsu AutoML technology speeds up analysis by evaluating the most promising machine learning pipelines, rather than all combinations of possible outcomes. The technology also enhances transparency for data-driven decision-making by showing users how the AI model is built.Fujitsu AutoML is an integral component of Fujitsu’s cloud-based AI Platform, Fujitsu Kozuchi, which enables rapid development, testing, and implementation of AI across seven areas: Generative AI, AutoML, predictive analytics, text, vision, AI trust, explainable AI.Mahesh Krishnan, Chief Technology Officer for Oceania at Fujitsu, said, “Collaboration between universities and technology firms like Fujitsu are essential in bridging the gap between the growing demand for AI experts and the limited supply of skilled technology professionals.“Fewer than 8.5% of Australian graduates hold an engineering qualification, ranking Australia sixth lowest among OECD countries. This impacts the ability for Australian organisations to effectively implement artificial intelligence solutions, to innovate, and stay competitive.(1)“Fujitsu is teaming up with Macquarie University to nurture the next generation of leaders with expertise in new and emerging areas of technology, including Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, to help solve real-world problems. We’re also doing it just when the market needs it the most.”Professor Amin Beheshti, Director of the Centre for Applied AI at Macquarie University sees wide-ranging positive impacts for this new course, “Macquarie is the home of Fujitsu's first Small Research Lab in the Southern Hemisphere. Now, we're joining forces to give students a leg up in the booming area of AI.”“This collaboration with Fujitsu is not just about addressing the immediate need for skilled machine learning engineers. It's about paving the way for future innovations. We’re also contributing to the research exploring how Generative AI can transform the field of automated machine learning. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to advancing knowledge in AI and shaping the future of technology.”The Fujitsu Macquarie AI Research Lab, established at Macquarie University, has paved the way for deeper industry-academia collaboration and innovation. Tapping into Macquarie University’s advanced research capabilities and Fujitsu’s expertise in AI technology, the Fujitsu AutoML collaboration aims to democratise AI education. By empowering students, researchers, and industry professionals with practical knowledge of automated machine learning, this initiative will bridge the gap between theory and real-world machine learning applications.This collaboration with Macquarie University underscores Fujitsu's ongoing commitment to advancing AI education and innovation. Fujitsu recently introduced a multi-AI agent security technology within its AI platform, Fujitsu Kozuchi, designed to proactively defend against cyber threats.In addition, Fujitsu is advancing video analytics through several key initiatives. This includes the development of an AI agent for video analytics that enhances workplace safety and efficiency by analysing long-duration video footage. Fujitsu has also partnered with Linius Technologies to expand these capabilities, delivering AI-powered insights from video data to improve safety and security across various sectors and environments.(1) Source :https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/about-engineering/statisticsAbout FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$26 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com.Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiries Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Mar 28, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Corporation and ADM are pleased to announce that both companies have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to form a strategic alliance to explore potential areas of future collaboration across the agriculture value chain.In recent years, the importance of secure and resilient food and agriculture supply chains has come into sharper focus, driven both by short-term dislocations as well as structural demand shifts powered by global population growth, economic development, and increasing consumer preference for sustainably sourced products. It has thus become essential to adopt a comprehensive and cross-industrial approach, connecting multiple businesses in different segments to address these challenges.Building on their long relationship, MC and ADM now will explore potential new ways to bring their respective strengths together to meet these global challenges.MC offers a cross-industrial business platform spanning multiple industries including food and energy, with ADM offering the capabilities of one of the world's largest food and agriculture companies. The companies hope that these broad and deep capabilities will allow them to create value by identifying new opportunities to meet global needs ranging from a robust biofuel supply chain to a stronger, more resilient global food system.Together, MC and ADM are committed to creating value and driving solutions that will help shape the future of the global agriculture value chain. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

- Expressing generational characteristics through taste and aroma to promote intergenerational communication -TOKYO, Mar 28, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) and Kyodoshoji Corporation Limited (COEDO Brewery) have developed four craft beers under "The taste of life created by brewers and AI — Agentic AI × Craft Beer" name to promote intergenerational communication. NEC's Agentic AI and brewers from COEDO Brewery collaborated to analyze the characteristics and standards of generations from their 20s to 50s, and expressed them in terms of taste and aroma. This is the second series of craft beers to be jointly developed by the two companies since 2020. COEDO Brewery will be selling the products at supermarkets in Japan and through the COEDO Brewery online store.In today's business world, organizations must adapt to technological advances and rapid market changes by blending the ideas of multiple generations to speedily solve problems and make changes. In addition, as globalization and customer needs continue to diversify, organizations need to create an environment that is receptive to a wide range of standards. Through these carefully crafted brews, the two companies aim to create opportunities to deepen mutual understanding between generations and assist in intergenerational communication. In the future, NEC will continue to expand Agentic AI to product development across various industries. COEDO Brewery will create value by promoting diverse product development using AI technology in craft beer production.Development Process for "The taste of life created by brewers and AI — Agentic AI × Craft Beer"(1) A brewer prompts Agentic AI based on NEC's generative AI "cotomi" to create a new craft beer recipe based on the profile of a Japanese person in their 20s. The Agentic AI will then autonomously break down the task and begin executing it using recipe information from inside and outside the company.(2) Agentic AI searches and translates COEDO Brewery's internal recipe data and open data from around the world.(3) In parallel, cotomi analyzes the characteristics, standards and traits of generations of contemporary Japanese and creates personas.(4) While referring to the information collected and analyzed in (2) and (3), a brewer is asked to submit a recipe proposal that incorporates the following categories: "recipe description," "relationship to the image of the era," "taste," "aroma," "color," "ingredients," "bitterness," "manufacturing process," and "customization suggestions."(5) A brewer may hold discussions with the Agentic AI, such as modifying a recipe by saying, "Please change the brewing method to enhance the reddish color," or seeking advice by asking, "What flavors are most popular with people in their 20s?"NEC BluStellarNEC BluStellar is a value creation model that leverages NEC's cutting-edge technologies, developed and refined through years of experience and proven cross-industry expertise. It aims to transform business models, address social challenges, resolve management issues faced by customers, and lead them into a brighter future.About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com.About COEDO BreweryA craft beer brand from Kawagoe, Saitama, with the concept of "Beer Beautiful." The signature beer is "Beniaka," made from locally grown sweet potatoes. We are a sustainable agricultural craft brewery that showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of Japanese artisans and the rich flavors of beer, promoting the charm of agriculture through beer. We aim for integrated production, from barley cultivation on our own farm. The quality and brand design have received global recognition, and our products are exported to 30 countries, including the United States, Australia, Singapore, France, and the United Kingdom, advancing activities from a local perspective https://coedobrewery.com/en. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.