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  • Telangana’s fruits, vegetables, Turmeric and Chilli have strong export potential: Minister, Tummala Nageswara Rao

    Telangana’s fruits, vegetables, Turmeric and Chilli have strong export potential: Minister, Tummala Nageswara Rao

     

    Hyderabad, Mar 13: The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), in association with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), organized a seminar on “Emerging Export Opportunities in Food & Agri Products from Telangana – Impact of FTAs” at KLN Prasad Auditorium, Federation House, Hyderabad on Friday.

    The seminar was inaugurated by Sri Tummala Nageswara Rao, Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture, Marketing, Co-operation and Handlooms & Textiles, Government of Telangana, who attended as the Chief Guest. Senior officials from DGFT and APEDA, exporters, food processors, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), agri-entrepreneurs and industry representatives also participated in the program.

    In his keynote address, Sri Tummala Nageswara Rao highlighted Telangana’s remarkable growth in agriculture over the past few years, noting that the State has emerged as the number one producer of paddy in the country. He emphasized that while production levels have increased significantly, the next priority is to ensure better value realization for farmers through exports, value addition, and food processing.

    The Minister stressed the importance of strengthening grading, processing, packaging, branding, and compliance with international quality standards to enable Telangana’s agricultural products to compete successfully in global markets. He noted that the State Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sri Revanth Reddy, is focusing on the development of food processing infrastructure and agri-based industries.

    He highlighted initiatives such as the Mega Food Park being established at Buggapadu in Khammam district, which will provide modern processing facilities, cold storage, logistics support, and value addition opportunities for farmers and food processing industries.

    The Minister also pointed out the strong export potential of Telangana’s horticulture sector, including fruits, vegetables, and spices such as turmeric and chilli. With improved supply chains, pack houses, cold storage infrastructure, and logistics networks, these sectors can significantly expand their presence in international markets.

    At the same time, he emphasized that while promoting agricultural exports, the interests of Indian farmers must be safeguarded, particularly in the context of international trade agreements and tariff policies affecting agricultural commodities.

    Earlier, Sri R. Ravi Kumar, President, FTCCI, welcomed the dignitaries and participants. He highlighted Telangana’s growing role in India’s agricultural export landscape, noting that the State produces around 168 lakh metric tonnes of rice annually and has strong potential in exports of rice, spices, fruits, vegetables, and processed food products.

    He emphasized the need to strengthen export infrastructure, including pack houses, integrated cold chain systems, food testing laboratories, and refrigerated logistics networks, to support exporters and ensure compliance with international standards. He also underscored the importance of building export-oriented Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) clusters to integrate farmers with global value chains.

    Sri Ravi Kumar also requested the Government to consider the development of integrated agri-export processing and logistics zones in Telangana to support the growing food processing and export ecosystem.

    Introducing the seminar, Sri S. Chandra Mohan, Chairman, Agro & Food Processing Committee, FTCCI, said the program aims to provide practical insights into export opportunities, international trade trends, and the implications of Free Trade Agreements for the agri and food processing sectors.

    He noted that the seminar would help exporters, food processors, agri-entrepreneurs, and FPOs understand global market requirements, export financing, regulatory compliance, and opportunities arising from evolving global trade dynamics.

    Officials from DGFT and APEDA —Mr Akshay SC, Joint Director General of Foreign Trade, Directorate General of Foreign Trade(DGFT), Govt of India, and RP Naidu, Regional Head of APEDA delivered technical presentations on India’s trade strategy, export procedures, market access, quality standards, and support mechanisms available for agri exporters.

    Mr Akshay SC, DGFT explained what is FTA (Free Trade Agreement) and how it helps.

    A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is a trade agreement between two or more countries to reduce or eliminate tariffs (import duties) and trade barriers on goods and services between them he said

    The goal of an FTA is to make trade easier, cheaper, and faster between the participating countries, he added.

    India has FTAs with many countries or regions. 250 plus participants through DGFT website and familiarised them with registration process.

    Naidu of APEDA said APEDA covers about 700+ agricultural and processed food products under its export promotion mandate. Exports of agricultural and processed food products promoted by APEDA reached approximately ₹2.45 lakh crore in the last financial year. Exports of non-basmati rice facilitated by APEDA reached around ₹55,000 crore last year.

    Speaking further he added that Nizamabad has developed into an important rice processing hub, with several rice mills approved for exports to the United States. These mills are performing well in global markets and contributing significantly to India’s non-basmati rice exports.

    The seminar also featured panel discussions on export finance, quality and compliance requirements, and product-specific export opportunities from Telangana, along with discussions on the role of government support in strengthening the agri-export ecosystem.

    The program witnessed active participation from exporters, food processing units, agri-entrepreneurs, logistics providers, consultants, and Farmer Producer Organizations, who engaged in discussions on expanding Telangana’s presence in global agricultural markets.

    The seminar concluded with a strong emphasis on collaboration between government agencies, industry bodies, exporters, and farmers to position Telangana as a major hub for agricultural and food product exports.

    The half day seminar featured technical sessions. Experts from government agencies and industry shared insights on India’s trade strategy and Free Trade Agreements, product–market mapping under FTAs, export finance and credit facilities, managing export risks through credit insurance, and export documentation and certification for new exporters. A panel discussion on product-specific export opportunities from Telangana and state support brought together representatives from the Department of Industries, Spices Board, and industry leaders to discuss strategies for strengthening the state’s agri-export ecosystem.

     
  • IBO announces ‘Cool Homes, Cooler Prices’, summer campaign across 40 stores

    Hyderabad, Mar 13: IBO, India’s largest home building retail chain, has launched its flagship summer campaign, ‘Cool Homes, Cooler Prices’, which will run from 1st March to 31st March 2026 across all 40 stores in India. The campaign combines special summer offers on cooling products with assured gifts linked to billing milestones.

    During the campaign period, customers will have access to special offers across air conditioners, air coolers, and ceiling fans from leading brands such as Lloyd, Godrej, Voltas, Daikin, Symphony, Bajaj, Havells, Orient Electric, Crompton, V-Guard, and Atomberg. Customers can also avail of cashback on select bank cards and finance options.

    Shoppers across home-building categories during the campaign will be eligible for assured gifts including VIP Trolleys, Airfryers, and Soundbars based on their total bill value. Rewards are applicable on cumulative purchases starting at a minimum spend, covering categories such as hardware, electricals, plumbing, sanitaryware, lighting, plywood and laminates, as well as power and hand tools.

    IBO currently operates 40 stores across key South Indian markets including Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Coimbatore, Mysore, Warangal, Tumkur, and Tirupur. The store has become the preferred choice for thousands of contractors, architects, interior designers, and individual home builders who rely on ready material availability, transparent shelf pricing, and standardized service support.

    IBO offers customers a truly omnichannel experience, allowing them to shop through its physical stores as well as digital touchpoints, including its website and app, offering over 250 leading home-building brands under one roof.

  • Researchers break decades-old bottleneck in chemotherapy drug manufacturing

     Researchers break decades-old bottleneck in chemotherapy drug manufacturing 

    An international team of researchers has achieved a breakthrough in the production of doxorubicin, a vital chemotherapy agent. The study identifies and resolves molecular “bottlenecks” that have limited the natural production of this drug for over 50 years. 
     
    Doxorubicin is a chemotherapy drug that was first approved for medical use in the 1970s. It is a cornerstone in treating various cancers, including breast cancer, bladder cancer, lymphomas and carcinomas, with over one million patients receiving the treatment annually. However, bacteria naturally produce this important drug very inefficiently. Consequently, the pharmaceutical industry has relied on expensive, multi-step semi-synthetic processes.

    Researchers break decades-old bottleneck in chemotherapy drug manufacturing

     

    “We have uncovered several independent factors that limit the formation of doxorubicin,” says Researcher, Keith Yamada, PhD, from the University of Turku in Finland, a lead scientist on the study. “By addressing these bottlenecks, we have harnessed rational strain engineering to pave the way for cost-effective manufacturing that can meet growing global demand”.

    Researchers develop new strain of bacteria that enhances drug production
    The study was the result of an extensive international collaboration involving a total of six research laboratories: the University of Turku in Finland, three laboratories in the United States, and two in Leiden, the Netherlands.

    Together, the teams identified three primary constraints that prevent the high-yield production of doxorubicin.

    Firstly, the team identified the specific natural “biological power supply” — redox partners named Fdx4 and FdR3 — that provide the necessary electron flow to power the drug-producing enzyme.

    Secondly, they discovered that a protein called DnrV acts as a drug-binding “molecular sponge”. It sequesters (binds and holds) doxorubicin so the drug does not shut down the enzyme’s own production machinery.

    Last, using X-ray crystallography, the team visualized the enzyme for the first time, revealing that the drug molecule sits in an unfavorable position within the enzyme, explaining the slow reaction rate.

    By combining these discoveries, the researchers engineered a new strain of bacteria that produces 180% more doxorubicin than current industrial standards.

    To bring these findings to the real world, the spin-out company Meta-Cells Oy was formed last year at the University of Turku. The company aims to commercialize these advanced technologies for the sustainable manufacturing of essential antibiotics and anti-cancer agents. This shift toward fully biosynthetic production promises a cleaner, more reliable supply of life-saving medicines.

    The study was published in the renowned journal Nature Communications.

    > Read the research article

  • Masterclass Space Launches VITEEE 2026 Test Series Aligned with New Marking Scheme and Exam Trends

    New Delhi, Mar 13th: Masterclass Space, an online learning platform founded by BITS Pilani alumni and supported by graduates from IITs and IIMs, has announced the launch of its VITEEE Test Series 2026, designed to help engineering aspirants prepare effectively for the VITEEE.

    The newly launched test series is crafted to closely replicate the latest VITEEE exam pattern and difficulty level, offering students a realistic exam simulation before they attempt the actual paper. With VITEEE introducing a revised marking scheme of +4 for every correct answer and −1 for every incorrect answer, the 2026 edition has been updated to fully align with the new guidelines.

    Based on extensive feedback from previous batches, the difficulty level of the test papers has been recalibrated to better reflect the evolving trends of VITEEE. The structure, question distribution, and marking logic have been carefully designed to mirror the actual exam environment, ensuring aspirants are well-prepared for both accuracy and time management under negative marking conditions.

    One of the core strengths of the VITEEE Test Series 2026 lies in its comprehensive performance analysis. After each test, students receive:

    • Section-wise score breakdown

    • Time spent per section and per question

    • Comparative analysis with toppers

    • Insights into peer performance trends

    This data-driven analysis enables aspirants to identify weak areas, refine their test-taking strategy, and optimize time allocation.

    According to Masterclass Space, in previous years, students’ actual VITEEE scores have consistently fallen within ±15% of their mock test scores, demonstrating strong alignment with the real exam in terms of pattern, difficulty, and topic weightage.

    When VITEEE was conducted for 125 marks, several students who consistently scored 110+ in mock tests went on to secure 100–110 marks in the actual examination, helping them secure preferred branches and admission under Category 1, the most economical fee category at Vellore Institute of Technology.

    The test series has been curated by experienced faculty members from IITs, IIMs, and BITS Pilani, many of whom have over a decade of experience in competitive exam mentoring. The content is continuously refined using detailed student feedback and past exam analysis, making the series increasingly relevant with each edition.

    The test series is available online via the Masterclass Space test platform and mobile application and will remain accessible until the last day of VITEEE 2026. A free demo test is also available, allowing students to experience the test interface and analytics before purchasing.

    Sharing his thoughts, Founder Aditya Shanker Raghwanshi said, “We launched the VITEEE Test Series after the immense success of our BITSAT program. Similar to BITSAT, relevance and detailed analysis remain the core pillars of our VITEEE series. Our aim is to provide aspirants with maximum practice, in-depth analysis, and continuous improvement so they can achieve their dream score in VITEEE.”

    With its close proximity to the real exam, detailed analytics, upgraded marking scheme integration, and consistent student outcomes, Masterclass Space’s VITEEE Test Series 2026 aims to empower serious aspirants with structured, strategic, and result-oriented preparation.

    For engineering aspirants targeting VIT in 2026, the platform offers not just mock tests but a comprehensive preparation ecosystem designed to translate practice into performance.

  • Indian Equity Markets Remain Range-Bound Despite Strong Corporate Earnings: Report

    New Delhi, March 13: Indian equity markets continue to trade within a narrow range despite strong corporate earnings growth, as global uncertainties and geopolitical tensions keep investor sentiment cautious, according to a recent report by Bajaj Finserv Asset Management.

    The report highlighted that companies in the Nifty 500 index posted a 16 per cent year-on-year increase in profits in the third quarter of FY26, marking the strongest earnings growth seen in nearly two years. The performance reflects improving profitability across sectors and indicates a gradual strengthening of corporate balance sheets.

    Despite this positive earnings momentum, domestic stock markets have not witnessed a major rally and have remained largely range-bound for more than a year. Analysts attribute this trend to external factors, including global economic uncertainties and geopolitical risks, which continue to influence market movements.

    According to market experts, strengthening corporate earnings provide a solid base for the long-term growth of Indian equities. However, global developments have created volatility and limited the immediate upside in the markets.

    The report also pointed to improving domestic economic indicators. Credit growth in the banking sector has returned to double-digit levels, signalling a rise in economic activity and demand for loans. Meanwhile, consumption trends have shown signs of recovery following recent policy measures, including tax relief through GST adjustments.

    Monetary policy easing has also supported the economy. The Reserve Bank of India’s cumulative rate cuts and liquidity measures have helped reduce borrowing costs for businesses and households, which could support investment and consumption in the coming quarters.

    However, emerging global trends are creating new challenges. The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence technologies has raised concerns about potential short-term disruptions in India’s IT services sector, particularly regarding demand patterns and employment dynamics.

    Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are another key risk factor. As India imports the majority of its crude oil, any disruption in global supply routes could lead to higher oil prices, putting pressure on inflation and the rupee.

    The report warned that prolonged geopolitical instability may also affect sectors such as aviation, chemicals, paints and oil marketing companies, while increasing the risk of foreign investor outflows.

    Meanwhile, the bond market has also witnessed fluctuations due to foreign capital movements and global developments, which have influenced currency movements and government bond yields.

    Despite near-term challenges, analysts believe that improving domestic fundamentals and stable inflation could help support market stability in the medium term, although global developments will continue to shape investor sentiment.

  • Globalization Remains at Record Levels Despite Rising U.S.–China Tensions: DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026

    New York, Mar 13: Despite rising geopolitical tensions, increasing tariffs, and growing uncertainty around global trade policies, globalization continues to remain at historically high levels, according to the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026, released today by DHL in partnership with the NYU Stern School of Business.

    Globalization Remains at Record Levels Despite Rising U.S.–China Tensions: DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026

     The report, based on more than 9 million data points, tracks international flows of trade, capital, information, and people across 180 countries, representing 99.6% of global GDP and 99% of the world’s population. It provides one of the most comprehensive assessments of the state of globalization worldwide.

    According to the report, global connectedness has remained stable since 2022, with globalization levels reaching 25% in 2025, matching the highest level ever recorded on the report’s scale measuring cross-border flows.

    John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express, emphasized the resilience of global integration despite political tensions. He noted that the continued strength of globalization highlights the importance of global cooperation in addressing major challenges such as poverty and climate change.

    Trade Growth Supported by AI and Pre-Tariff Imports

    The report highlights that global trade growth in 2025 was the fastest since 2017, excluding the volatile pandemic period. Increased trade activity was partly driven by companies accelerating imports before the introduction of higher U.S. tariffs.

    Demand for AI-related infrastructure and technology also played a major role in boosting global trade. According to World Trade Organization (WTO) data, AI-related products accounted for 42% of the growth in goods trade during the first three quarters of 2025.

    While higher tariffs in the United States could slow trade growth slightly in 2026, global goods trade is still expected to expand at an average rate of 2.6% annually through 2029, broadly in line with growth seen over the past decade.

    Limited Impact of U.S.–China Trade Tensions

    The report finds that trade between the United States and China has continued to decline, falling from 3.6% of global trade in 2015 to 2.7% in 2024, and further down to 2.0% during the first three quarters of 2025. However, these flows represent only a small portion of total global trade, meaning their decline has had limited impact on overall globalization levels.

    At the same time, countries and companies are diversifying supply chains and trade partnerships, with nations such as India and Vietnam emerging as key beneficiaries.

    Record Movement of Goods and People

    The report also highlights several major trends in other global flows:

    • Capital: Foreign investment remains resilient, with multinational companies continuing to generate large portions of their sales internationally. While greenfield foreign direct investment announcements declined in 2025, overall FDI flows increased and cross-border mergers and acquisitions remained strong.

    • Information: Growth in cross-border data and information flows has slowed since 2021 due to geopolitical tensions and increasing restrictions on data transfers.

    • People: International travel, migration, and student mobility have rebounded strongly after the COVID-19 pandemic and are now reaching record levels.

    Singapore Tops Globalization Rankings

    In the report’s country rankings, Singapore remains the world’s most globalized country, followed by Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Regionally, Europe ranks as the most globally connected region, followed by North America and the Middle East and North Africa.

    The United Kingdom stands out for having the most geographically diversified international flows, while the United Arab Emirates has recorded the largest growth in globalization since 2001.

    Globalization Still Far From Its Full Potential

    Despite strong global connections, the report notes that the current 25% globalization level shows that the world still has significant room to expand cross-border exchanges if policy restrictions are reduced.

    Professor Steven A. Altman, Director of the DHL Initiative on Globalization at NYU Stern’s Center for the Future of Management, noted that while political debates around globalization may appear volatile, actual global flows have proven to be remarkably resilient.

    “Globalization faces real risks, but the resilience of international flows is equally real,” Altman said, emphasizing the importance of accurately understanding global economic connections when shaping future policy decisions.

  • Pulse of Positivity Hosts Health & Wellness Summit 2026 on March 15

    New Delhi, Mar 13: Pulse of Positivity will organise the Health & Wellness Summit on March 15, 2026, in New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, healthcare experts, academicians, and thought leaders to deliberate on key issues shaping India’s public health and wellness ecosystem. The summit will be held at Le Méridien, New Delhi, and will serve as a platform for dialogue on preventive healthcare, mental health awareness, lifestyle diseases, and sustainable health systems.

    Pulse of Positivity Hosts Health & Wellness Summit 2026 on March 15

     The inaugural session will feature Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. The session will also include addresses from distinguished public leaders and the official launch of the “Health Chaupal” initiative, aimed at promoting community-driven dialogue on health and well-being.

    The event will also be graced by prominent dignitaries including Pankaj Kumar Singh, Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Government of NCT of Delhi, Temjen Imna Along, Minister for Higher Education & Tourism, Government of Nagaland, Anil Jain, President of The Bharat Scouts and Guides and former Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), and Raja Iqbal Singh, Mayor of Delhi.

    Designed as a multi-stakeholder platform, the summit will feature a series of thematic sessions bringing together medical practitioners, policy experts, and community leaders to discuss critical health challenges and opportunities.

    “The Health & Wellness Summit 2026 is envisioned as a platform to bring together policymakers, medical professionals, wellness practitioners and thought leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of healthcare in India. Through this summit, Pulse of Positivity aims to encourage conversations around preventive healthcare, mental well-being and community-driven health initiatives. We believe that collaborative dialogue and shared knowledge are essential to building a healthier, more aware and resilient society.” said Rear Admiral Kapil Gupta, VSM (Retd.), Editor-in-Chief of Pulse of Positivity.

    The summit will feature thematic sessions on mental health and emotional well-being, lifestyle diseases and preventive healthcare, women’s health and maternal–child wellness, and public health policy and sustainable health systems, bringing together experts from medicine, academia, wellness and public policy. Speakers include Gautam Chaubey, M. N. Hoda, Saroj Dubey, Raqib Ali, Vivek Kumar, Acharya Pratistha, Ambika Dhiman, Rajdeep Singh Anand, Shailendra Vyas, Bhawna Garg, Praveen Kumar Garg, Rahul Kashyap, RJ Ragini, Ravi Parashar, Navneet Bali, Arun Kumar Pandey, Rajeev Pathak, and Rajnikant Pandey, who will share perspectives on strengthening India’s healthcare ecosystem and promoting preventive and community-driven health practices.

    The summit will conclude with a Valedictory Session, featuring Tushar Chauhan, who secured All India Rank 216 in the Civil Services Examination 2025, alongside other distinguished speakers.

    Through discussions spanning mental health, preventive care, women’s health, and public policy, the Health & Wellness Summit aims to encourage knowledge exchange and foster collaborative solutions to strengthen India’s healthcare ecosystem while promoting community-driven wellness initiatives.

  • Saatvik Green Energy Launches Energy Storage Arm

    Mumbai,  Mar 13: Saatvik Green Energy Limited, one of India’s fastest-growing fully integrated renewable energy companies listed on the BSE and NSE, has announced the incorporation of its wholly owned subsidiary, Saatvik Power Storage Solutions Limited, in India. The newly formed entity will operate in the renewable energy and energy storage sector, focusing on the development and deployment of battery technologies and energy storage systems.

    The initiative marks an important step in Saatvik’s strategy to build a future-ready clean energy platform that integrates solar generation with storage solutions. The subsidiary plans to explore opportunities in 20 GW of energy storage capacity over the next five years, supporting grid stability and renewable integration across key markets. The company also aims to introduce utility scale, C&I, retail and residential range of battery and energy storage solutions, catering to utility-scale, commercial & industrial, and distributed renewable energy applications.

    Commenting on the development, Prashant Mathur, CEO of Saatvik Green Energy Limited, said:

    “Energy storage will play a critical role in enabling the next phase of renewable energy growth. The incorporation of Saatvik Power Storage Solutions Limited reflects our long-term vision to build a comprehensive clean energy ecosystem that integrates solar manufacturing, EPC capabilities, and advanced storage technologies. This step positions Saatvik to contribute meaningfully to India’s transition toward reliable, round-the-clock renewable power.”

    The subsidiary has been incorporated with an authorised capital of ?10,00,000 divided into 1,00,000 equity shares of ?10 each, with 100% shareholding held by Saatvik Green Energy Limited.

    The establishment of the subsidiary reinforces Saatvik’s commitment to innovation, technology-led growth, and supporting India’s clean energy transition, particularly as the country accelerates deployment of renewable energy capacity supported by grid-scale and distributed storage solutions.

  • Japantastics Introduces the World of Kodaimoji, Bringing Ancient Characters into Modern Spaces

    TOKYO, Mar 13 – Japantastics, Inc. has announced the launch of a new collection featuring Kodaimoji artworks by Kei Sato, a Japanese calligrapher and contemporary artist who reimagines ancient Chinese scripts such as oracle bone and bronze inscriptions as modern expressions of art. These early forms of writing, dating back more than 3,000 years, are recognised as the origins of modern Chinese characters and as vessels of timeless human emotion and spirituality. 

     

     
    Guided by the concept “Bringing Ancient Characters into Modern Spaces,” Sato transforms these primordial symbols into living works that resonate with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities. Her art transcends traditional calligraphy, appearing in diverse media such as wood, metal, ceramics, and stone. By merging historical depth with modern design, Sato creates works that channel the spirit of ancient writing into today’s architecture, interiors, and art environments. 

    Kei Sato explains: “Ancient characters are the prototypes of the kanji used today. Although they are the oldest form of written language, their rediscovery in 1988 makes them both ancient and new. Inspired by oracle bone and bronze inscriptions, born from cultures that reflect unchanging human emotions across time, I continue to create under the theme ‘Bringing Ancient Characters into Modern Spaces,’ hoping to share their essence across all environments.” 

    “Child” 

    “Happiness” 

    Through her creative practice, Sato seeks not only to preserve these scripts as historical artefacts but to reinterpret and revitalise them, awakening the fundamental beauty and meaning of written forms within the context of contemporary art and space. 

    “Sun” 

    “Spring” 

    The Japantastics.jp online site now features a selection of Sato’s works, which serve as a cultural bridge, reviving the rhythm and beauty of the world’s earliest scripts for the modern era. Through her reinterpretations, the primitive strokes once carved into bone or cast in bronze are reborn as expressions of universal harmony, emotion, and timeless design. 

    Kei Sato’s major overseas activities: 

    1970: Began practising ancient Chinese calligraphy. 

    1994: Became independent. 

    1997: Established Raira Studio. Developed an original technique of expressing letters with granite in its original stone colour, and presented a lithograph. Held an exhibition at Nagoya Gallery 141, themed “Taking ancient Chinese Calligraphy into modern times”. Her works were exhibited at the Jiangsu Golden Mausoleum Restaurant in Nanjing, China. 

    1999: Her works were exhibited in the Beijing China Museum of History International Calligraphy Exhibition. Held an exhibition at the gallery in Hakuseki Museum in Gifu Pref. 

    2000: Her works were exhibited in the Jiangsu Provincial Art Museum International Calligraphy Exhibitions, Jiangsu, China. Held an exhibition at Nihonbashi Gallery “Kai” in Tokyo, Japan. 

    2006: Her works were exhibited at Melbourne Art Show ’06, Australia. Her works were exhibited at Collingwood Gallery (Art Collection ’06), Australia. 

    2009: Won China-Japan Peace Prize at Tokyo International Art Exhibitions (Sesion Suginami, Tokyo). Her works were exhibited at the Euro-American “America Arts Exhibitions” in Tennessee, USA. 

    2010: Won “Art Gallery Prize” at Tokyo International Art Exhibitions (Tokyo Metropolitan Arts Museum). 

    2011: Exhibited at the International “Japan – France Exhibition of Contemporary Art”, Aoyama Spiral. Won “Art Gallery First Prize” at the International Art Exhibition, Tokyo Metropolitan Arts Museum. Won the Award of Excellence at the Mexico International Art Exhibition, Mexico. Participated in the 21st Century International Artists Exchange and Exhibition, Seoul. Held an exhibition in Salon d’Automne, Paris (France). 

    2012: Participated in International Art Exhibitions “Spain Art Exhibitions”, Spain. Won “Special Prize” (The Window of Art Prize) at *International Japan–France Exhibition of Contemporary Art”, National Art Centre. Participated in the 21st Century International Artists Exchange and Exhibition, Jilin (China). Held an exhibition in Salon d’Automne, Paris (France). 

    2013: Exhibited at the International “Japan–France Exhibition of Contemporary Art”, The National Art Centre. 

    2014: Exhibition at Kyoto International Hotel, Kyoto. Exhibited at the International “Japan – France Exhibition of Contemporary Art”, The National Art Centre. Held an exhibition in Salon d’Automne, Paris (France). Participated in the 21st Century International Artists Exchange and Exhibition. Won Mayor’s Award, Keelung City (Taiwan). 

    2015: International Arts Exhibition (Belgium – Holland Arts Exhibition), Belgium 45th Anniversary. 

    2016: Participated in the Euro-American ‘French Art Prize Exhibition’ featuring a special large-scale display of black and white works (Corsica). 

    2018: Participated in the Euro-American ‘Spanish Art Prize Exhibition’ (Spain). Participated in the Euro-American ‘Japan-France Contemporary Art World Exhibition’ (The National Art Centre, Tokyo). Participated in the 21st Century Calligraphic and Painting Artists International Exchange Exhibition (Seoul). Exhibited at the Salon d’Automne (Paris, France). 

    2019: Participated in the Euro-American ‘Finland Art Prize Exhibition’ (Finland). Selected for the Salon d’Automne (Paris, France). 

    2020: Selected for the Salon d’Automne (Paris, France). 

    2021: Participated in the Euro-American ‘Japan-France Contemporary Art World Exhibition’ (The National Art Centre, Tokyo). Selected for the Salon d’Automne (Paris, France)

  • Australian Fashion Council and R.M.Williams Deliver First-Ever Industry-Backed Plan to Scale Australia’s Fashion & Textile Manufacturing Sector

     

    The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) and R.M.Williams have launched the National Manufacturing Strategy for Australian Fashion and Textiles 2026 – 2036 at Parliament House in Canberra – the first coordinated national roadmap to rebuild targeted domestic manufacturing capability across Australia’s textile, clothing and footwear (TCF) sector.

     

    A group of people standing in a row

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    The National Manufacturing Strategy for Australian Fashion and Textiles 2026 – 2036 launch at Parliament House in Canberra

     

    As the official print and projection partner of the Australian Fashion Council, Epson are fully supporting this national manufacturing strategy, its strategic outcomes and strategic pillars, as detailed below, that that firmly promote Australia’s onshore manufacturing capabilities.

     

    A group of people posing for a photo

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    (l-r) Epson Australia Managing Director Craig Heckenberg, Samantha Delgos, General Manager, Australian Fashion Council, Marianne Perkovic, Executive Chair, Australian Fashion Council and Epson Australia Corporate Marketing Manager, Priscilla Dickason

    The ten-year Strategy is the result of almost a year of industry consultation led by the AFC and R.M.Williams, including 14 national consultations with manufacturers, brands, educators and policymakers across the country. More than 300 stakeholders contributed to the process, generating over 1,000 proposed initiatives and nearly 900 votes on strategic priorities to shape the sector’s long-term manufacturing future.

    The Strategy was unveiled at a breakfast symposium and AFC member showcase in Mural Hall attended by over 90 industry and parliamentary guests, including members of the Parliamentary Friends of Australian Fashion & Textiles, and its Co-Chairs, Matt Burnell MP, Dai Le MP and Zoe McKenzie MP.

    The Strategy comes at a critical time for the industry. With 97 per cent of Australia’s clothing and textile products manufactured offshore, the sector remains vulnerable to ongoing global supply disruptions and trade volatility. Rather than compete against high-volume offshore manufacturing markets, the Strategy is focussed on closing structural gaps and accelerating advanced manufacturing to scale the sector’s comparative advantage, aiming to position Australia to compete globally in premium, technology-enabled and traceable production, built on the country’s natural fibre strengths.

    Table 1: Strategy Outcomes & Australia’s Comparative Advantage

    Outcome

    Comparative Advantage

    1. Capture more value from Australian fibre

    Australia is one of the world’s leading producers of premium natural fibres, including wool and cotton. Expanding domestic processing and spinning enables more of that value to be captured onshore.

    2. Strengthen sovereign manufacturing capability

    Australia has capability in specialised textile products where quality, compliance and supply security matter, including defence, healthcare and emergency service applications.

    3. Build a globally competitive premium sector

    Australia’s strength lies in high-quality, traceable and sustainably produced textiles and apparel, supported by natural fibres, strong design capability and advanced manufacturing.

    The Strategy outlines three strategic pillars underpinned by industry and government coordination as the levers required to deliver these outcomes by 2036.

    Table 2: Strategy Pillars & Coordination

    Strategic Pillar

    Focus

    1. Activate and drive demand

    Demand is the critical enabler. Strategic public procurement (federal and state) can anchor it, while Australian-made identification and coordinated national promotion can extend it through to consumer sectors. 

    2. Secure the workforce of the future

    Create new skilled pathways for advanced manufacturing roles, enable skills transfer (median age of manufacturer is 57), protect women’s contribution and participation (58% of TCF manufacturers are women) and support the diverse communities in the sector (41% are from CALD communities). 

    3. Accelerate advanced manufacturing

    Co-invest in modern machinery, new technologies and advanced manufacturing, rebuild early-stage fibre processing and yarn spinning – the sector’s ‘missing middle’ – and enable innovation in circular manufacturing and fibre-to-fibre recycling.

    AN ECONOMIC CASE FOR ACTION

    Independent modelling by RMIT University that full implementation of the Strategy’s coordinated policy platform will grow TCF manufacturing value added from $2.6 billion to $2.9 billion by 2030/31, delivering a cumulative $1.4 billion economic dividend over five years. The Strategy is also projected to create more than 1,000 new skilled jobs and $864 million in additional wages, with approximately half of those jobs are projected to be filled by women.

    At present, TCF manufacturing already employs more than 27,000 Australians – 58 per cent women (compared to 28 per cent in other manufacturing industries) and 41 per cent from culturally and linguistically diverse communities – and pays over $1.4 billion in wages annually. Strengthening this base will increase the competitiveness of Australia’s $28 billion fashion and textile industry, which employs nearly 500,000 Australians across the broader value chain.

    SPOKESPERSON QUOTES

    “This Strategy sets out a clear roadmap for rebuilding a globally competitive Australian fashion and textile manufacturing sector. Australia already has exceptional design talent, advanced manufacturing capability and globally recognised brands. With the right coordination across industry, skills and procurement policy, we have a real opportunity to strengthen sovereign capability, create skilled jobs and position Australia as a leader in premium manufacturing.”
    Marianne Perkovic, Executive Chair, Australian Fashion Council

    “Australia is the world’s largest exporter of greasy wool and a globally significant cotton producer. Yet we export raw fibre and import finished goods at multiples of the original value. Re-establishing fibre processing and spinning capability restores the missing link in our value chain. Building the next generation of capability to capture this value – capability that is advanced, technology-enabled and circular – will also require stronger demand signals. Strategic public procurement can help anchor that demand and support the growth of Australia’s domestic manufacturing capability.”
    Samantha Delgos, General Manager, Australian Fashion Council

    “R.M.Williams has manufactured in Adelaide for more than 90 years. We employ skilled craftspeople, invest in apprentices and continue to modernise production while competing globally. What’s needed now is to activate a flywheel: demand enables investment in skills, skills enable advanced manufacturing, and technology allows Australian manufacturers to scale while maintaining quality.”
    Tara Moses, Chief Operating Officer, R.M.Williams

    “This Strategy is a serious economic blueprint for communities, supporting skilled jobs, strengthening regional manufacturing, and creating clearer pathways for women into trades and long-term manufacturing careers. It presents a coordinated, cross-portfolio agenda that connects procurement, skills and industry capability. As Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends group, I’m committed to supporting the sector to turn this plan into long-term coordinated action.”
    Matt Burnell MP, Co-Chair, Parliamentary Friends of Australian Fashion & Textiles

    “Epson is firmly committed to our partnership with the Australian Fashion Council and our joint goals around improving local manufacturing, furthering innovation and developing digital transformation. To that end Epson are also working closely with the AFC on a feasibility study for a ‘smart factory’ and shared manufacturing hubs similar to those we have already developed and implemented with The Social Outfit and Citizen Wolf where Epson’s direct-to-fabric digital printing technologies play a part in the overall production workflow. This National Manufacturing Strategy represents an important step forward for Australia’s fashion and textile industry. Epson is proud to support this initiative and help accelerate the adoption of advanced digital technologies that can drive greater sustainability, unlock new opportunities, and create the jobs of the future.”

    Craig Heckenberg, Managing Director, Epson Australia

    The Strategy’s launch at Parliament House marked an important moment for Australia’s fashion and textile industry. To showcase the capability already operating in Australia, AFC members from across the manufacturing sector presented a cross-section of domestic production. The showcase featured R.M.Williams, Bianca Spender, Bond-Eye Australia, Clothing the Gaps, ABMT, Sylvia P, Waverley Mills, Silver Fleece and Stewart & Heaton. 

     

    A group of people standing together holding shoes

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    The National Manufacturing Strategy for Australian Fashion and Textiles 2026 – 2036 launch at Parliament House in Canberra

     

    The AFC and R.M.Williams also produced a short film titled ‘Made Here, Worn Everywhere’ profiling AFC members including Australian Defence Apparel, The Social Outfit, Maara Collective, Citizen Wolf, Waverley Mills and Silver Fleece highlighting the diversity of manufacturing already taking place across Australia.

     

    WHAT’S NEXT: FOUNDATION TO 2029

    The Strategy will be led by the Australian Fashion Council as the peak body for the sector. Progress will be measured through a two-stage assessment framework.

    1. Implementation review (to 2029): This phase will assess progress in establishing the core architecture underpinning the Strategy, including procurement reform, national capability mapping, skills recognition pilots, shared manufacturing infrastructure and governance arrangements to coordinate delivery.
    2. Strategic outcomes review (to 2036): This phase will assess progress against the Strategy’s long-term ambition – a competitive, technology-enabled and domestically anchored manufacturing sector with a sustainable workforce pipeline and globally recognised market position.

     

    The National Manufacturing Strategy for Australian Fashion & Textiles is supported by the Parliamentary Friends of Australian Fashion & Textiles group, co-chaired by Matt Burnell MP, Dai Le MP and Zoe McKenzie MP, with more than 60 bipartisan members across Parliament.