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MINISO Releases 2025 ESG Report, Strengthening IP Strategy and Sustainable Growth

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GUANGZHOU, China, April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global lifestyle brand MINISO has released its 2025 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, outlining the Company’s progress and practices across corporate governance, social responsibility and green operations, as it continues to integrate ESG principles into its global growth strategy.

During the reporting period, MINISO further strengthened its ESG governance framework and long-term value creation capabilities. The Company’s overall ESG performance continued to improve, with its S&P CSA score increasing to 43, ranking among the top 15% of the industry, and its Wind ESG rating maintaining an AA level for the third consecutive year. By embedding ESG principles into its IP-driven strategy, MINISO continues to build a sustainable and resilient foundation for long-term global growth.

2025 Environmental, Social and Governance Report
2025 Environmental, Social and Governance Report

Advancing Toward a Global IP Operation Platform

Guided by its vision “To become the world’s leading IP operation platform,” MINISO continues to evolve beyond traditional retail, strengthening capabilities in IP operation, product innovation and content integration.

Through a dual‑engine model combining top‑tier licensed IPs and proprietary IPs, MINISO continues to build a resilient IP ecosystem that balances cultural value and commercial strength. While expanding global IP partnerships, the Company has also reinforced the long‑term cultivation of proprietary IPs, providing a stable and sustainable content foundation to support product innovation and long‑term business development.

The Company remains committed to its long‑term goal of supporting 100 Chinese IPs go global over the next decade, while nurturing original creativity through initiatives such as the Global IP Genius Youth Program.

At the product level, MINISO continued to promote craftsmanship and design innovation across IP‑related products, including vinyl plush and hand‑feel oil craftsmanship, further enriching IP product offerings and strengthening the sustainable foundation of its core business.

MINISO's Proprietary IPs
MINISO’s Proprietary IPs

Building a Diverse and Inclusive Global Workforce

MINISO continues to strengthen a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce across global markets. As of the end of the reporting period, female employees accounted for approximately 65% of the workforce, with women representing around 55% of management positions, reflecting continued progress in building a more balanced and inclusive organization.

Localization continued to be a key pillar of overseas operations. In directly operated overseas markets such as Vietnam, the localization rate of operational employees reached 99%, while the localization rate of store managers reached 100%.

MINISO is also enhancing its employee incentive and care mechanisms. During the reporting period, MINISO granted share incentives to approximately 475 employees, of whom around 400 were non-senior management employees. In addition, MINISO also established a marriage and maternity incentive fund to foster a more family-friendly workplace. As of the end of the reporting period, the fund had distributed a cumulative total of RMB 3.41 million, benefiting more than 200 employee families.

Leveraging its strengthened governance framework and people‑oriented talent strategy, MINISO received a total of 18 employer brand and workplace‑related awards during the reporting period, including the Harvard Business Review’s High‑Energy Team Globalization Special Award, HR Asia’s Best Employer, and the Great Place to Work global certification from Great Place to Work, among others.

Deepening Community Engagement and Public Welfare

Throughout the year, MINISO advanced public welfare initiatives across key focus areas including children’s development, women’s empowerment and animal welfare, with total public welfare donations amounted to approximately RMB 3 million during the reporting period.

Leveraging its youthful brand identity, MINISO works with partners to expand the reach and impact of its community initiatives. Programs such as “Red Power” support adolescent girls’ health in developing regions through educational outreach and material donations. Animal welfare campaigns including “Hey, Don’t Call Me Village Dog” and “From Strays to Heroes – Give Us a Lift” have promoted adoption and in-store awareness, generating over 100 million impressions.

In overseas markets, MINISO actively integrated into local communities by aligning initiatives with local social needs and priorities. Through well-curated community engagement, material donations and employee volunteer activities, the Company continued to strengthen long‑term trust between the brand and local communities.

Stray Cat Assistance Project
Stray Cat Assistance Project

On-Site Adoption Event
On-Site Adoption Event

Advancing Green Operations and Sustainable Retail Practices

MINISO continued to advance its low‑carbon transformation and enhanced resource efficiency across areas including energy structure, operational models, retail scenarios and product design.

In terms of infrastructure, MINISO expanded its use of renewable energy. The headquarters building obtained LEED Platinum pre‑certification and installed solar photovoltaic panels, while its logistics park installed approximately 77,000 square meters of solar photovoltaic panels, generating approximately 12.5 million kWh of clean electricity annually and reducing carbon emissions by over 6,600 tons per year.

Across logistics and warehousing, MINISO enhanced circular packaging and operational efficiency, introducing reusable plastic boxes to replace single-use cartons and completing the full electrification of delivery vehicles and warehouse forklifts in directly operated stores.

At the store and product level, MINISO integrated environmental concepts into retail spaces and products. Stores such as Ningbo Super MINISO and Foshan Lingnan Tiandi incorporated biophilic and local cultural design elements, while 53 SKUs obtained biodegradable certification, and 580 kilograms of recycled materials were used in Eco-friendly PEN PEN plush toys.

LEED Pre-certification Certificate
LEED Pre-certification Certificate

Looking ahead, MINISO continues to advance the deep integration of its IP strategy and ESG practices by coordinating IP operations, talent development, public welfare initiatives and green operations. By embedding ESG principles across its global business, MINISO consistently delivers high‑quality, warm and joyful consumption value to society and consumers.

To view the full MINISO 2025 ESG report, click the link here

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About MINISO

MINISO Group is a global lifestyle brand offering a variety of design-led lifestyle products. The Company serves consumers primarily through its large network of MINISO stores, and promotes a relaxing, treasure-hunting and engaging shopping experience full of delightful surprises that appeals to all demographics. Aesthetically pleasing design, quality and affordability are at the core of every product in MINISO’s wide product portfolio, and the Company continually and frequently rolls out products with these qualities. Since the opening of its first store in China in 2013, the Company has built its flagship brand “MINISO” as a globally recognized retail brand and established a massive store network worldwide.

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Kentucky Derby no longer guaranteed boom for Lexington as vacant hotel rooms replace sellouts

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The Kentucky Derby may still draw big crowds from around the world, but hotels in nearby Lexington are struggling to fill vacant beds.

For years, Derby weekend meant sold-out rooms and sharply increased prices across the city. 

Now, hotel leaders say that surge is spreading out, with more travelers opting to stay closer to Louisville or along surrounding corridors, according to FOX 56.

KENTUCKY DERBY MINT JULEP MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN MAKING POPULAR COCKTAIL

The change has left some Lexington hotels working to fill rooms just days before the race, in sharp contrast to previous years when bookings were locked in far in advance.

Industry observers say a number of factors may be contributing to the shift.

Fans watching horses being walked around the paddock at Churchill Downs

Despite strong Derby crowds, fewer visitors are said to be staying in Lexington this year as more people choose to be closer to Louisville. (Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire)

Alice Ford, a travel host of “Alice’s Adventures on Earth” and frequent Kentucky Derby attendee, told Fox News Digital that recent changes to the event may be contributing to more spread-out attendance.

“They’ve added several more race days in the beginning of the week, which is spreading out viewership over a longer period of time,” Ford said.

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She also pointed to tighter security measures and broader economic pressures.

“Big events like the Derby are no longer high priorities for a lot of people when choosing between expensive sporting events,” Ford noted.

Attendees wearing colorful hats at Kentucky Derby preview day at Churchill Downs in Louisville

The shift may be due to more race days and rising costs reducing demand. (Leandro Lozada/AFP)

She also said changing attitudes toward the ethics of horse racing may be influencing attendance.

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Back in Lexington, hotel managers say the local impact is clear.

“Shelbyville has added a bunch of hotels — Simpsonville, even Frankfort. So now Derby is not considered a ‘special event’ here,” Alison Chenet, general manager of a Hilton Garden Inn in Lexington, told FOX 56.

Barbaro statue standing at Churchill Downs horse racing complex in Louisville, Kentucky

Changing attitudes about the ethics of horse racing may also be impacting attendance this year. (iStock)

Instead of tripling rates and selling out, many hotels are raising prices more modestly and focusing on balancing occupancy.

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While Derby weekend remains busy, Chenet said Lexington hotels now see their highest demand during Keeneland’s spring and fall meets, as well as major events like the Railbird music festival.

She added that her property is already sold out for Railbird weekend, with room rates significantly higher than usual.

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Chenet said she expects bookings to pick up as race day approaches — but estimates her hotel will reach about 85% to 90% capacity.

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From babies to fur babies: Jakewell to open Hong Kong’s first Baby × Pet hybrid concept store at AIRSIDE on 8 May

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5,000 sq ft Store features Hong Kong’s only “Test Drive Track” for baby and pet strollers; celebritytrusted brands under one roof
Grand Opening Special! Check in to receive a travel organiser bag or pet toy ball

HONG KONG, April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hong Kong’s trusted baby brand Jakewell will open its largest store to date — and fifth citywide — at AIRSIDE, Kai Tak on 8 May, spanning over 5,000 square feet. In addition to its signature collection of the finest baby products from around the globe, the new store introduces a dedicated “Pet Zone” for the first time, positioning itself as a one-stop parenting and pet outing experience in response to the evolving family structures and consumer needs in Hong Kong.

Jakewell's first-ever Baby × Pet hybrid concept store in Hong Kong will make its grand debut at Kai Tak on 8 May. The new store features "Test Drive Track" experience zone, allowing parents to test strollers for both their babies and pets respectively.
Jakewell’s first-ever Baby × Pet hybrid concept store in Hong Kong will make its grand debut at Kai Tak on 8 May. The new store features “Test Drive Track” experience zone, allowing parents to test strollers for both their babies and pets respectively.

Hong Kong’s trusted baby brand Jakewell will open its largest store to date—and fifth citywide—at AIRSIDE, Kai Tak, on 8 May. Spanning more than 5,000 square feet, the new store adds a dedicated Pet Zone for the first time, positioning Jakewell as a one‑stop destination for modern families with babies and pets, in step with evolving household needs in Hong Kong.

Breaking new ground: Hong Kong’s first Pet Zone inside a baby store
Jakewell’s first‑ever Pet Zone expands beyond the traditional baby and maternity format, offering pet strollers, pet car seats and pet rocker beds. The opening marks the debut of Hong Kong’s first Baby × Pet hybrid concept store.

A brand spokesperson explained that the idea was inspired by real customer feedback: “Many parents head out with both their baby and their pet, and previously had to visit multiple stores to get everything they needed.” As pet ownership in Hong Kong increasingly mirrors family dynamics, the concept of “human-pet harmony” has evolved from a lifestyle attitude into a tangible consumer demand — and Jakewell has chosen to lead the way.

Hong Kong’s only “Test Drive Track” for realworld stroller trials — Try Strollers on Cobblestone, Grass and More
Moving beyond the typical “look but don’t touch” retail model, the store features a one‑of‑a‑kind Test Drive Track that simulates real street surfaces, including cobblestones and grass. Parents can test both baby strollers and pet strollers for suspension, handling and manoeuvrability before making a purchase.

The store also includes Hong Kong’s largest Stokke brand experience zone, showcasing the full product line from the renowned Norwegian baby brand. Jakewell has long been trusted by celebrity and KOL parents in Hong Kong; the new flagship lets customers try first‑hand the products those families recommend.

Over 30 international brands — with several firsts for Hong Kong
The store brings together more than 30 brands from Europe, the United States and Asia, including Stokke, Doona, Joolz, Bugaboo, UPPAbaby and Micro. For the first time, Jakewell is also introducing Woom, Thule, WonderFold and Tavo to the Hong Kong market, giving local parents even more choice.

Grandopening giveaways — pets included
To celebrate the opening, Jakewell is offering two photo‑check‑in gifts. The whole family—including your fur babies—is welcome.

  • Reward 1: Stokke Zone Checkin Gift
    Snap a photo at Hong Kong’s largest Stokke brand experience zone to receive a complimentary travel organiser bag (valued at HK$198), perfect for keeping little‑one essentials tidy on the go.
  • Reward 2: Fur Baby Exclusive Check-in Gift
    Visit the Pet Zone with your pet and take a photo to receive a complimentary pet ball toy—so fur baby can join the celebration too.

Kai Tak: a strategic location in a petfriendly community
Jakewell’s choice of Kai Tak is no coincidence. As a major new development area, Kai Tak has seen a surge of move-ins in recent years, attracting a large number of young families. AIRSIDE itself has established a pet-friendly positioning, and the district is equipped with multiple public spaces that welcome pets — fostering an increasingly mature community atmosphere of “human-pet harmony.”

Jakewell Retail Shop Details

Airside

Olympian City

Address: Shops 503, AIRSIDE, Kai Tak

Address: Shop UG28, Olympian City 2, West Kowloon

Telephone: 3899-2009

Telephone: 3899-2001

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday (11:00 – 20:00)

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday (11:00 – 20:00)

Harbour North 2

Monterey Place

Address: Shop 117, Harbour North 2, Island East

Address: Shop G22B, Monterey Place,  Tseung Kwan O

Telephone: 3899-2003

Telephone: 3899-2006

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday (11:00 – 20:00)

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday (11:00 – 20:00)

The Wai

Address: Shop 404, The Wai, Tai Wai

Telephone: 3899 2008

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday (11:00 – 20:00)

Facebook: Jakewell HK
Instagram: @jakewell.hk
Website: https://www.jakewell.com.hk/

About Jakewell
Founded in 2013, Jakewell is guided by the philosophy of “Modern Parenting,” curating a wide selection of renowned baby and children’s brands. Its product range covers every stage of childhood — from newborn sleep essentials, nursery furniture and care products, to strollers, car safety seats and tricycles for outings, as well as tableware and toys for growing children — equipping Hong Kong families with the very best for their parenting journey. In response to the changing family landscape in Hong Kong, Jakewell expanded into the pet category in 2026, introducing pet strollers, car seats and lifestyle accessories for the first time. The brand is committed to creating a “one-stop parenting and pet outing experience,” ensuring that every family member — fur babies included — receives all-round care.

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Toxic black mould fears put Queensland’s Logan Police Station at risk of shutdown, with officers relocated amid health concerns

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A major police station has been partially shut down amid a toxic mould scare, as concerns grow over long-term health impacts on officers.

Officers were forced to work from other stations on Thursday as sections of the Logan District Headquarters in south-east Queensland have been closed off following an urgent health alert, with fears black mould is spreading throughout the building.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Logan Police Station faces closure over black mould

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Queensland Police Union (QPU) had warned 550 members via text message not to use parts of the building.

QBuild crews were seen on site on Thursday, taking samples from three rooms used by general duties officers as testing continues.

The busy Logan District Headquarters plays a key role in the region, housing multiple specialist police units.
The busy Logan District Headquarters plays a key role in the region, housing multiple specialist police units. Credit: 7NEWS
QBuild crews attend the station, taking samples as testing for toxic mould continues.
QBuild crews attend the station, taking samples as testing for toxic mould continues. Credit: 7NEWS

The union says the station has a long history of mould issues, with previous remediation efforts failing to stop it returning.

“It has a massive history of mould — there’s been remediation works done before,” QPU vice-president Andy Williams said.

“It’s an issue people have been looking at, but when they treat the mould and a week later there’s more, I’d suggest you’ve got a problem.”

The Logan District Headquarters plays a critical role in the region, housing training facilities as well as Crime Prevention and Investigation and Criminal Investigation Branch units, and the dog squad.

The area, about 30 minutes south of Brisbane, also records more than twice the statewide average for break-ins, with the division handling 9,842 reported offences in the past year.

Despite its importance, the station has already seen officers relocated due to the health concerns, with further disruptions possible if more areas are deemed unsafe.

Queensland Police Union vice-president Andy Williams says the station has a long history of recurring mould issues.
Queensland Police Union vice-president Andy Williams says the station has a long history of recurring mould issues. Credit: 7NEWS
A notice warns officers the day room is closed, with staff directed to use alternative entry points.
A notice warns officers the day room is closed, with staff directed to use alternative entry points. Credit: 7NEWS

The QPU says it will push for stronger action if needed.

“If we are not happy with the response we will escalate that to the regulator, because our people and our people’s safety are important,” Williams said.

“The QPS mantra is ‘be safe, feel safe’. At the moment, our members feel neither.”

The union is also calling for a planned $76 million upgrade of the facility, which was announced in last year’s Logan 2025–26 budget, to be brought forward.

“Our view is the money is in the budget, let’s bring it forward,” Williams said.

Queensland Police said the station would remain open, but the union argues it should be closed if widespread contamination is confirmed.

The latest developments come as scrutiny continues over long-term health concerns linked to the site.

QPU president Shane Prior has previously confirmed two officers fell ill after exposure to mould at the station.

Senior Constable Justin Darney was just 38 when he was diagnosed with a rare and terminal form of pancreatic cancer, after 11 years of alleged exposure to carcinogenic toxic mould at Logan Central Police Station.

Senior Constable Justin Darney, who died in 2023, with his family alleging his illness was linked to prolonged exposure to toxic mould at the station.
Senior Constable Justin Darney, who died in 2023, with his family alleging his illness was linked to prolonged exposure to toxic mould at the station. Credit: 7NEWS

He died in 2023, with his wife seeking a coronial inquest, claiming the illness was caused by toxic exposure while he was stationed there from 2009 until 2020.

The development is another blow for Queensland Police, coming just days after faults were detected in service-issued Glock pistols.

Investigations into the current outbreak are ongoing.

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NETMARBLE TO HOST CHARACTER NAME RESERVATION EVENT FOR GAME OF THRONES: KINGSROAD ON MAY 8

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SEOUL, South Korea, April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Netmarble, a leading developer and publisher of high-quality games, announced that it will host a character name reservation event for Game of Thrones: Kingsroad starting May 8 at 05:00 AM(UTC).

SOURCE: NETMARBLE
SOURCE: NETMARBLE

The event will be held through the game’s official website, where players can log in and participate via the name reservation feature, allowing them to secure their own unique in-game character name in advance.

In addition, Netmarble will release a special video featuring Hyun Il Jang, Executive Producer at Netmarble Neo on May 7 at 11:00 AM(UTC) via the official Game of Thrones: Kingsroad YouTube channel. The video will include a message of appreciation following the recent showcase and Closed Beta Test, along with a brief overview of the results. It will also introduce key topics based on player feedback.

Meanwhile, pre-registration for Game of Thrones: Kingsroad is currently underway. Players who pre-register can receive a range of platform-specific rewards designed to support early progression and customization, including Northern Outfit and more. Netmarble is also hosting a subscription event across its official channels, offering additional rewards such as the launch special title “Harbinger of Westeros” and 100,000 Copper.

Meanwhile, Game of Thrones: Kingsroad is scheduled for an initial PC launch on May 14, followed by a Grand Launch on May 21 with support for mobile platforms.

Game of Thrones: Kingsroad is an open-world RPG based on HBO®‘s iconic Emmy®– and Golden Globe®-winning original drama series, Game of Thrones. The game is officially licensed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on behalf of HBO.

GAME OF THRONES: KINGSROAD, GAME OF THRONES, HOUSE OF THE DRAGON and all related characters and elements © & ™ HOME BOX OFFICE, INC. (s26) All rights reserved. ™ & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s26)

About Netmarble Corporation
Founded in Korea in 2000, Netmarble Corporation is a leading global game developer and publisher. Through acclaimed franchises and strategic partnerships with top-tier IP holders, the company delivers innovative and engaging gaming experiences to audiences worldwide. As a parent company of Kabam, SpinX Games, Jam City, and a major shareholder of HYBE and NCSOFT, Netmarble’s diverse portfolio includes Solo Leveling:ARISE, Seven Knights Re:BIRTH, and The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin.

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Infinitus Presents Human Evidence-Based Research Findings at FFC 2026

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GUANGZHOU, China, April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ma Jun, Vice President and Chief Science Innovation Officer of Infinitus (China) Company Ltd., was invited to attend the Functional Food Conference 2026 (FFC 2026), held recently in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, where he delivered a keynote presentation. In his remarks, Ma outlined the company’s research foundation and ongoing innovation in the functional food sector, highlighting findings from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical study of its flagship product, Zengjian Oral Liquid, which demonstrated its efficacy in enhancing human immune function.

Themed “Functional Foods and Human Health,” this year’s conference was jointly organized by the FFC Organizing Committee and the National Engineering Research Center of Functional Food at Jiangnan University, among others. The event brought together more than 3,000 industry specialists, business representatives, and researchers from China and abroad to explore key topics including scientific innovation, product development, and industry trends in functional foods. Widely recognized as a leading professional exchange platform in China’s functional food sector, the conference serves as a key forum for industry exchange and development.

FFC 2026 on-site
FFC 2026 on-site

In his presentation, Ma provided a comprehensive overview of Infinitus’s user-centric research framework and outlined the company’s scientific approach and practical pathway for validating product efficacy. He noted that Infinitus consistently places consumers at the center of its efficacy research, drawing on advancements in herbal science to establish a robust system spanning material foundations, precise evaluation, and gold-standard validation. Building on its established work in cellular studies, model organisms, and animal research, the company continues to expand human evidence-based research, relying on rigorous scientific data to validate product performance and support more consistent industry practices.

Ma Jun delivers a keynote speech at the event
Ma Jun delivers a keynote speech at the event

At the conference, Infinitus also presented clinical trial findings on Zengjian Oral Liquid, marking a significant milestone in its evidence-based research efforts. The study employed a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled design—widely regarded in evidence-based medicine as the gold standard—aimed at rigorously assessing the product’s ability to support human immune function in real-world settings.

According to the study findings[1], after 45 days of taking Zengjian Oral Liquid, participants’ Immune Vitality Index (SIV) increased significantly from Level 3 to Level 4, with more pronounced improvements observed among women and individuals aged 55 and above. After 90 days, subjects showed a notable rise in immune reserve cells (naive CD8+ T cells), along with substantial increases in immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM levels. These results demonstrate the product’s ability to strengthen immune reserves and enhance the body’s defense capacity, providing scientific support for its role in immune regulation.

As a company with a long-standing focus on the herbal health sector, Infinitus remains committed to applying principles from established wellness practices alongside modern scientific methods to explore the health benefits of herbal ingredients. The company has established an integrated innovation system spanning research, technology, and product development across the full value chain. At the conference, Infinitus presented its latest research and outlined its approach to product development, contributing to ongoing discussions within the functional food sector.

Looking ahead, Infinitus will continue to invest in herbal science, with a strong focus on evolving consumer health needs. The company aims to develop more high-quality, reliable herbal health products while strengthening evidence-based research to align with evolving industry expectations. Through these efforts, Infinitus seeks to deliver more targeted health solutions and support broader public health outcomes.

Reference: [1] Data source: “A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel-Controlled, Multi-Center Human Clinical Study on the Efficacy and Safety of Zengjian Oral Liquid in Supporting Immune Function”

https://www.infinitus.com.cn/c/2026-03-10/449382.shtml

Source: Infinitus (China) Company Ltd.

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Booking Holdings CEO on Q1 results, impact of Middle East conflict and travel demand outlook

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Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel joins ‘Squawk Box’ to discuss the company’s quarterly earnings results, impact of the Middle East conflict on the business, state of travel demand, and more.

05:47

Wed, Apr 29 20268:13 AM EDT

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Beautiful destination forced to impose penalties to stop aggressive street tactics

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A popular Italian island is taking new steps to improve the tourist experience by cracking down on aggressive sales tactics.

Capri, a luxury destination off the coast of Naples, has introduced a ban on persistent street solicitation, targeting restaurant hosts, tour operators and vendors who approach visitors with repeated or intrusive pitches, U.K. news outlet The Independent reported.

Under the new rule, violators can face fines ranging from about $30 to $585.

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The move comes as Capri continues to grapple with overtourism with as many as 50,000 visitors arriving on peak days, according to Italy’s national hotel association.

The island is implementing other changes to combat overtourism, as well.

Scenic coastal view of Capri, Italy with Faraglioni rock formations.

The island of Capri has banned aggressive street solicitation, targeting pushy promoters and vendors in an effort to curb overtourism issues. (iStock)

Starting in May, officials are introducing limits on organized tour groups, capping them at 40 people, the association noted.

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Tour guides are no longer allowed to use oversized markers such as umbrellas or flags to lead groups — a move aimed at reducing congestion in busy areas, according to Euronews.

The measures were approved unanimously by Capri’s city council as part of a broader effort to manage surging visitor numbers and reduce crowding during peak travel months, Travel Noire reported.

Woman walking along a coastal path in Capri with Faraglioni rock formations and sea view.

Beginning in May, Capri officials will limit organized tour groups to a maximum of 40 people. (iStock)

The head of Capri’s local business association, Luciano Bersani, said the new rules are a “first step” toward easing congestion during the busiest times of day.

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“[The association] favorably welcomes the new regulation on tourist groups and guides. This is an important first step, calling for other concrete initiatives, which should allow for better use of Capri during certain hours of the day congested by the many daily visitors,” Bersani said in early 2026, Italian media reported.

“This is an act of responsibility that reflects our vision of an island that is finally more livable.”

Capri has long enforced rules to preserve its character. 

As far back as the 1960s, local ordinances banned disruptive behavior such as loud radios, overnight stays in public areas and picnicking on lawns, Time Out reported.

Capri harbor with small fishing boats docked along waterfront and colorful buildings on hillside.

The new step is designed to help ease overcrowding during peak hours, improving how visitors move around Capri, authorities indicated. (iStock)

Local business groups have expressed support for the latest restrictions.

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The changes are expected to ease congestion in heavily trafficked areas such as the main square and marina, while improving the overall experience for both visitors and residents, Euronews said.

“This is an act of responsibility that reflects our vision of an island that is finally more livable,” said Lorenzo Coppola, president of Capri’s hotel association, the Italian media reported.

The changes come as Capri prepares for another high-volume summer travel season.

“The new rules for [organized] groups are indispensable tools for decongesting critical areas, giving back breathing space to our pedestrian routes.”

“I welcome the cap, which I don’t see as protecting just VIP tourism, but for everyone,” Gianluigi Lembo, owner of the famous Taverna Anema e Core, said in early 2026, Italian media reported.

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“We are studying this and port security extensively, and we will be able to resolve it well before the summer,” Capri’s mayor, Paolo Falco, said in a statement to Italian media in February 2026.

The changes come as Capri prepares for another high-volume summer travel season.

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iQIYI Launches Variety Show “Voices of Youth”, Putting China’s First Pop Performance Choral Show on a Global Stage

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BEIJING, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On April 24, iQIYI, China’s leading online entertainment platform, launched “Voices of Youth”, a brand-new variety show bringing together 25 young artists spanning vocalists, idol artists, crossover actors, and emerging musicians to form China’s first pop performance choral show. Before its premiere, the show topped the Most Anticipated Variety Shows chart on Weibo, China’s leading social media platform, multiple times and debuted simultaneously on iQIYI International across markets to strong reception.

“Voices of Youth” introduces a first-of-its-kind “pop performance choral” format, moving beyond both traditional choral conventions and domestic idol competition shows. Integrating SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) four-part professional choral arrangements with dance and theatrical staging, the show uses mixed-voice ensembles to enrich the musical texture and elevate the visual impact, delivering an immersive audiovisual experience that bridges choral artistry and popular culture. Grounded in the creative energy of today’s Chinese youth, the format speaks a musical language familiar to international audiences.

The show follows 25 young artists through intensive training, competitive stage performance, and international cultural exchange, chronicling their journey from strangers into a unified ensemble and capturing the passion and camaraderie that define the experience of youth.

In its song selection and arrangements, the show is closely attuned to the aesthetic preferences of younger audiences, bringing choral music out of the concert hall and into the mainstream. The production team applies a world-class choral training framework across varieties of full-scale stage productions this season, holding every performance to rigorous artistic standards. Beyond the stage, the show serves as a platform for international cultural exchange, bringing together leading choral ensembles from China and abroad to showcase the musical talent and spirit of today’s Chinese youth, and to build genuine connections between young artists across cultures.

“Voices of Youth” is the latest example of iQIYI’s investment in original variety show, developing new formats that go beyond existing IP. By pairing a universally accessible art form, the series is part of iQIYI’s broader effort to bring Chinese creative talent to a global audience.

CONTACT: iQIYI Press
press@qiyi.com

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Fremantle midfielder Nathan O’Driscoll reveals battle with anxiety

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Fremantle winger Nathan O’Driscoll has opened up on his battle with anxiety, revealing he has been on the brink of taking his own life on three separate occasions during “deep depressive states”.

The 23-year-old said “it feels like the right time” to speak up about his struggles, which comes after Carlton midfielder Elijah Hollands’ mental health episode against Collingwood in Round 6, and the passing of Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson’s brother.

Hollands was admitted to hospital last Monday night, four days after his erratic and concerning performance against the Magpies.

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Dawson missed the Crows’ clash with St Kilda later that round as he begun to grieve the loss of his older brother Jaryd, whose body was found on April 15 after a 24-hour search.

O’Driscoll, who has played 40 games in six seasons at the Dockers, said he wanted others to know their struggles are normal.

“I wasn’t going to post this, but with the recent focus on mental health around the league, it feels like the right time,” he wrote on Instagram on Wednesday.

“Over the past four years, I’ve had some incredible highs, but also some very low moments. I’ve struggled with anxiety, a constant need to feel like I belong, and always putting others before myself.

“There have been times where I’ve fallen into deep depressive states and three separate times where I’ve been extremely close to committing suicide.

“I’m sharing this because speaking up matters. No one is there to judge you, every person I’ve opened up to has supported me in ways I never expected.”

O’Driscoll said the perception of an AFL player’s life and the reality can be two starkly different things.

“From the outside, it might look like I have everything, but what’s going on internally can be a very different story. Everyone is dealing with something, and it’s okay to not be okay,” he added.

The midfielder went on to reveal he has recently lost someone within his close circle, which has naturally made things even tougher.

“I’ve always tried to be a positive, selfless person, but I’ve learned it’s okay to put yourself first sometimes. Valuing yourself is just as important as valuing others,” he said.

“The past few weeks have been especially tough after losing someone close to me, but leaning on my family, friends, and teammates has meant everything. I’m incredibly grateful for the people around me.

“There is so much good in this world. Whatever you’re going through, it will get better. Reach out, stay connected, and be kind to yourself.

“You are loved. You are seen. You are heard. Much love, Nath.”

The heavy post follows calls from players, including Geelong midfielder Bailey Smith and Western Bulldogs defender Rory Lobb, for a men’s mental health round to be introduced into the AFL fixture in the wake of the events of the past month.

O’Driscoll’s teammates rushed to his support, flooding the comments with messages of love.

His younger brother Aiden, who was drafted to the Western Bulldogs but was medically forced to retire before playing a game, wrote: “We all love you Nath. I’ll always be here for you, the best big brother anyone could ask for ❤️ You’re such a good person bro🤩.”

Aiden O’Driscoll retired from the AFL at age 18 due to serious concussion suffered at training, just months after being drafted.

Aiden and Nathan are also the brothers of Dockers AFLW star Emma O’Driscoll.

If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.

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