Industry Leadership Summit at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026 marks the first step toward the full-scale PLX Asia trade event in 2027

BANGKOK, May 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PLX Asia, Southeast Asia’s first unified B2B platform dedicated to private label and contract manufacturing, was introduced today through the Industry Leadership Summit, marking the first step toward its full-scale trade event in 2027. Designed to connect retailers, manufacturers, and solution providers, PLX Asia addresses a critical gap in the region’s retail and manufacturing landscape through a focused, business-driven ecosystem that supports innovation, sourcing efficiency, and sustainable growth across Southeast Asia’s private label value chain.

Led by the Organisers and Official Partners — the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), and Koelnmesse — PLX Asia was introduced to the industry as a concept through the Industry Leadership Summit held during THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026 on 29 May 2026, ahead of its full-scale trade event in 2027.

Addressing a Critical Gap in Southeast Asia’s Retail and Manufacturing Landscape

Private label has become a major growth driver in mature retail markets across China, Europe, and North America, where retailers increasingly leverage private brands to strengthen margins, accelerate innovation, and respond more effectively to evolving consumer demands.

In Southeast Asia, the private label market is entering a pivotal growth phase, underpinned by the region’s strong Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Original Design Manufacturer (ODM) capabilities, expanding modern retail infrastructure, and a rapidly growing, value-conscious middle class, creating significant headroom for private label expansion across the region.

“PLX Asia responds to a structural shift in global retail,” said Mathias Kuepper, Managing Director and Regional President, APAC, Koelnmesse Pte Ltd. “Private label has moved from a value alternative to a core growth driver for retailers worldwide. Southeast Asia is now reaching that inflection point, but the ecosystem is still fragmented. PLX Asia is being developed to bring focus to the market by connecting retailers and manufacturers, accelerating capability building, and supporting the next phase of private label growth in the region.”

PLX Asia is envisioned as a dedicated, regionally relevant platform that brings together retailers, manufacturers, and solution providers in one focused ecosystem. By doing so, the platform aims to reduce sourcing fragmentation, improve speed-to-market, and enable more strategic collaboration across the private label value chain. The introduction of PLX Asia marks an important step in advancing Thailand’s role as a regional trade and sourcing hub.

“Thailand’s competitive advantage in the Private Label industry extends beyond cost efficiency or production capacity; it lies in the trust and readiness of Thai manufacturers to respond to global market demands in an end-to-end manner, particularly in OEM and ODM production,” said Dr. Poj Aramwattananont, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC). “Thai manufacturers integrate product development, design, and manufacturing in compliance with internationally recognised standards, in line with global consumer demand for value for money, quality, safety, and sustainability. Private Label therefore plays a key role in enhancing retailers’ competitiveness while enabling Thai manufacturers to strengthen their position in the global value chain.”

Nowadays, many Thai entrepreneurs demonstrate strong capabilities in high-growth sectors such as food, healthcare, and health-related products, as well as jewellery and fashion. Combined with flexible manufacturing and specialised expertise, Thailand is well positioned to further develop as a hub for Private Label manufacturing and value creation. In this regard, PLX Asia serves as a key platform connecting Thai manufacturers with international retailers not only to create short-term trade opportunities, but also to foster long-term partnerships that support the sustainable growth of Thailand’s economy.

A Dedicated Platform for Private Label Growth

PLX Asia is being introduced as a dedicated platform for private label and contract manufacturing across food and non-food categories, reflecting the broader opportunity for retailers and manufacturers in Southeast Asia. From food and beverage to beauty and personal care, household products, pet care, packaging, branding, and product development, the platform is designed to support private label growth beyond a single category or sector.

Rather than following a traditional exhibition model, PLX Asia is being developed as a curated, outcomes-driven platform that prioritises meaningful business engagement over scale and quantity. This approach reflects the specific needs of private label stakeholders, where efficiency, trust, category expertise, and long-term partnerships are often more critical than conventional trade show visibility.

Industry Leadership Summit at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026

The PLX Asia kick-off event, the Industry Leadership Summit, held during THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026 on 29 May 2026, served as the platform concept’s formal industry introduction. Designed as a high-level, closed-door content and networking programme, the Summit convened more than 200 senior decision-makers from retail, manufacturing, product development, packaging, and investment communities across Southeast Asia and beyond to explore the evolving opportunities shaping the region’s private label landscape.

The event was supported by industry associations, including the Thailand Retailer Association, with Daymon participating as the Official Knowledge Partner.

“In Southeast Asia, Private Brand is no longer just a shelf tactic – it is becoming a boardroom growth agenda, won through flawless execution at the shelf. It is about more than price: it is about growth, differentiation, margin, and shopper relevance. The retailers who act now, and execute well, will shape the next chapter of modern retail in the region.” said Nuno Afonso, President of Daymon International.

Early participants for the full-scale PLX Asia trade event in 2027 were also presented during the Industry Leadership Summit, offering the industry a first look at the ecosystem taking shape around the platform. Designed as a thought leadership and relationship-building forum, the Summit established the foundation for deeper engagement and participation in the years ahead.

Building Towards the Full-Scale PLX Asia Trade Event in 2027

Following this first official industry introduction, PLX Asia will continue to evolve as a dedicated platform, expanding exhibitor segmentation, strengthening its regional manufacturer database, and deepening engagement with retailers and industry stakeholders across Southeast Asia.

PLX Asia’s inaugural full-scale trade exhibition is planned for 2027 as a standalone show covering private label and contract manufacturing across food and non-food categories, including areas such as food & beverage, beauty and personal care, and household products. The long-term ambition is to establish the platform as the region’s leading hub for private label innovation, sourcing, and collaboration.

By connecting Southeast Asia’s competitive manufacturing base with the evolving needs of regional and international retailers, PLX Asia aims to play a central role in shaping the future of private label growth across the region.

About PLX Asia

PLX Asia is Southeast Asia’s first B2B platform dedicated exclusively to private label and contract manufacturing. Led by the Organisers and Official Partners — the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), and Koelnmesse — the platform connects retailers, manufacturers, and solution providers across the region to drive innovation, sourcing efficiency, and sustainable growth within the private label ecosystem.

Designed specifically for Southeast Asia’s retail and manufacturing landscape, PLX Asia addresses long-standing gaps in private label sourcing through a focused, business-driven engagement model. By prioritising curated interactions, knowledge-led programmes, and commercially relevant outcomes over traditional exhibition scale, the platform enables retailers to identify trusted partners and supports manufacturers in expanding their regional and international market access.

Organisers and Official Partners

Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, Thailand

The Department of International Trade Promotion is committed to providing excellent service to Thai entrepreneurs in international business, including trade facilities, cost reduction, value creation of goods and services, providing consultation for overseas market access and maintenance, as well as close cooperation with the private sector to promote Thailand as a major gateway of Asia. http://www.ditp.go.th/

Thai Chamber of Commerce

The Thai Chamber of Commerce represents the Thai private sector to facilitate business and trade as well as to serve as the central coordinating agency between the government and private sector, and also helps to promote trade, business and economic cooperation including, build relationships between Thai and partner countries at the bilateral and multilateral level as well as plays a proactive role in representing the interests of the local Thai business community.

https://www.thaichamber.org/

Koelnmesse Asia Pacific – Global Competence in Food and FoodTec

Koelnmesse is an international leader in organising food fairs and events regarding food and beverage processing. Trade fairs such as the ANUGA, ISM and ANUGA FoodTec are established world leaders. Koelnmesse not only organises food and food technology trade fairs in Cologne, Germany but also in further growth markets around the globe, for example, in Brazil, China, Colombia, India, Italy, Japan, Thailand, the United States and the United Arab Emirates, which have different focuses and contents. These global activities enable us to offer our customers a network of events, which in turn grant access to different markets and thus create a basis for sustainable and stable international business. Further information is available at: https://www.koelnmesse.com/current-dates/all-trade-fairs/

Source

TIANJIN, China, May 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HMS Vision Inc. announced this week at Vision China 2026 the expansion of the HelpMeSee Simulation-based Eye Surgery Training Program at the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University (WMU). Since the collaboration began in 2018, the program has grown significantly, and with this latest expansion, WMU is now the largest operator of the HelpMeSee cataract surgery VR simulation-based training system worldwide. The expanded center features six award-winning HelpMeSee Eye Surgery Simulators, increasing training capacity in Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) and Phacoemulsification (Phaco), and advancing cataract surgery education across China and the Asia-Pacific region.

With the support of HMS Vision Inc., cataract specialists participate in instructor-led simulation-based cataract surgery training on HelpMeSee Eye Surgery Simulators at the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, now the largest HelpMeSee training center worldwide with six simulators.

The expansion strengthens collaboration between HMS Vision Inc., through its wholly owned subsidiary Beijing HMS Vision Technical Consulting Co. Ltd., and WMU, combining local clinical and academic expertise with a standardized, instructor-led, competency-based curriculum. This partnership ensures trainees receive a consistent, high-quality educational experience aligned with international best practices and helps address the surgical backlog, as an estimated 17–20 million people in China live with vision impairment due to cataracts.¹

Powered by advanced haptic virtual reality technology, the HelpMeSee Simulation-based Training Program delivers an immersive, tactile experience that allows trainees to safely practice each step of cataract procedures, such as MSICS and Phaco, without risk to patients.

“This expansion represents a major advancement in surgical training capacity at Wenzhou Medical University,” said Prof. Dr. Xu Xu, Director of the Ophthalmic Surgical Skill Training Center.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yuan Yimin, Director of Academic Affairs at the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, added, “By scaling access to six state-of-the-art HelpMeSee Eye Surgery Simulators, we are empowering more trainees to refine their skills through high-volume, simulation-based training—ultimately improving patient outcomes and addressing the growing demand for cataract treatment in China and worldwide.”

The WMU training center is expanding to support large-scale, instructor-led cataract training programs. Trainees perform hundreds of simulated procedures within a short timeframe. This high-repetition approach enhances readiness for live surgical training, builds confidence, shortens training times, and complements traditional training models with objective, data-driven assessment.

As cataract blindness and visual impairment continue to grow worldwide, the need for scalable, high-quality training solutions is urgent. The expanded WMU facility serves as a regional hub for developing highly skilled cataract surgeons.

This milestone supports the broader mission to expand access to cataract surgery training across Asia and beyond. By equipping surgeons with advanced technical skills in a risk-free environment, the program contributes to reducing preventable blindness and improving access to vision-restoring care.

Through this collaboration, HMS Vision Inc. and Wenzhou Medical University reaffirm their commitment to innovation, education, and global health impact—positioning WMU as a leading training center for ophthalmic surgical excellence worldwide.

Sources:
¹ Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019), Vision Loss Expert Group, published in The Lancet Global Health.

Media Contact
Name Amanda Kronberg
Phone 720-220-9882
Email pr@hmsvision.org

About HMS Vision Inc.
HMS Vision Inc. is a US-based organization and the exclusive licensor of the HelpMeSee Simulation-based Eye Surgery Training Program in China through its local entity, Beijing HMS Vision Technical Consulting Co. Ltd. Through technology deployment, strategic partnerships, and collaboration with leading medical institutions, universities, and healthcare systems, HMS Vision advances access to high-quality cataract care and supports modern surgical training and scalable solutions to improve patient outcomes.

In partnership with Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center at Sun Yat-sen University, and He Eye Specialist Hospital, HMS Vision supports innovation in ophthalmology and helps reduce preventable blindness across China. Beijing HMS Vision Technical Consulting Co. Ltd. deploys the HelpMeSee Simulation-based Eye Surgery Program across institutions nationwide to strengthen surgical proficiency, standardize best practices, and expand access to safe, cost-effective cataract procedures.

About Wenzhou Medical University
Wenzhou Medical University (WMU), located in the coastal city of Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, is a prestigious institution specializing in medical education and research. Founded in 1912, it has grown into a key university in Zhejiang with a strong national reputation.

WMU excels in clinical medicine, with its Ophthalmology and Optometry program ranked among the best in China. The university also boasts outstanding programs in pharmacy, nursing, and biomedical engineering. It is home to over 20,000 full-time students, including a growing community of international students from more than 80 countries.

The university is renowned for its research output, particularly in eye science, where its affiliated Eye Hospital is a leading national center. WMU maintains active collaborations with universities and institutions worldwide, offering English-taught degree programs in clinical medicine and optometry.

With modern campuses, affiliated hospitals providing hands-on clinical training, and a commitment to innovation, WMU serves as a vital hub for cultivating future healthcare professionals and researchers globally.

Source: HMS Vision Inc.

Source

Multi-Dimensional Upgrades Elevate Premium Family Vacations

SANYA, China, May 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As the 2026 summer travel season approaches, Atlantis Sanya is unveiling a series of upgrades designed to elevate premium family vacations and enrich Hainan’s summer tourism market. The resort is expanding its offerings across family entertainment, marine education, nightlife experiences, dining, and wellness, reflecting the growing demand for diverse and immersive travel experiences. Among the highlights are the highly popular 20th Anniversary Octonauts Family Ocean View Rooms, featuring immersive interiors and exclusive animations, alongside a newly upgraded Octonauts Kids Club with seven themed zones and more than 40 interactive activities combining entertainment and marine learning.

The resort has also enhanced its signature “One Ticket, Two Venues, Three Performances” aquarium experience, allowing guests to explore The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Dolphin Cay, and enjoy popular marine-themed performances. Further strengthening its marine conservation initiatives, Atlantis Sanya recently opened the Sea Turtle Shelter, a new ecological conservation facility focused on sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, breeding, and educational study tours, supported by an international conservation team.

For summer entertainment, the Aquaventure Waterpark Music Festival will return with extended operating hours and a transformed 7,000-square-metre wave pool featuring an innovative “wave pool karaoke” experience. Meanwhile, the resort’s resident production, C Show, will debut refreshed choreography and upgraded stage effects, delivering an immersive performance that combines land, water, and aerial elements. On the culinary front, Saffron Buffet Restaurant will launch an all-you-can-eat seafood and durian festival, featuring fresh seafood and over 100 Chinese and Western dishes.

On the wellness and healthcare front, Atlantis Sanya has partnered with Sanya Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital to launch a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) wellness centre, offering a range of therapies such as acupuncture, moxibustion, tuina massage, and customised herbal treatments. The resort has also entered into a strategic partnership with the Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Sanya Branch, providing guests with access to premier oral and dental healthcare services while they stay with Atlantis Sanya. Together, these initiatives form a comprehensive “tourism + wellness + medical care” model, designed to meet the rising demand for high-quality health-and-wellness travel experiences while supporting the sustainable growth of Hainan’s cultural tourism industry.

Source

POSITIONING DA NANG AS SOUTHEAST ASIA’S INTERNATIONAL HUB FOR THE SILVER ECONOMY & MEDICAL TOURISM

DA NANG, Vietnam, May 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 3rd Da Nang Global Business Summit 2026, themed “Silver Generation Innovation”, concluded successfully on May 15 at Pullman Danang Beach Resort, bringing together more than 120 delegates, including government leaders, healthcare experts, international investors, technology companies, real estate developers, financial institutions, and healthcare operators from Vietnam and around the world.

The event was organized by Lion Huynh Tran Company Limited in collaboration with domestic and international enterprises and strategic partners, with support from organizations including Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital, Savills Vietnam, AmCham Central Vietnam, and numerous global organizations in healthcare, investment, and urban development.

The summit was held amid the rapidly accelerating population aging trend across the Asia-Pacific region. According to international studies, the “Silver Economy” — the economic ecosystem serving senior communities — is emerging as one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, creating significant opportunities for cities with high living standards, advanced infrastructure, and strong healthcare ecosystems.

With its natural advantages, livable environment, growing healthcare capacity, and sustainable development vision, Da Nang is increasingly recognized as a promising destination for retirement living, medical tourism, and international wellness services in Southeast Asia.

MORNING SESSION

STRATEGIC VISION & DEVELOPMENT MODELS

Vision from the Da Nang City Government

In her opening remarks, Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoai An – Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism – affirmed that Da Nang is strategically positioning itself as a leading regional hub for resort tourism, healthcare, and wellness.

According to Ms. Hoai An, during the first four months of 2026, the city welcomed nearly six million visitors, reflecting Da Nang’s growing appeal through its harmonious combination of natural beauty, modern infrastructure, safe living environment, and friendly local culture.

She emphasized that the “Silver Economy” is not merely an emerging economic trend, but also an opportunity to redefine quality of life for the future. The city is progressively developing a wellness and medical tourism ecosystem through recovery retreats, preventive healthcare, traditional therapies, and proactive healthcare models.

Ms. Hoai An stated that Da Nang aspires to become a city where people and visitors come not only “to travel,” but also “to live healthier, live longer, and live happier.”

Perspective from the International Business Community

Mr. Chris Vanloon, Chairman of AmCham Central Vietnam, remarked that Vietnam possesses strong advantages for developing the retirement living and medical tourism industry, although its potential remains underutilized compared to regional competitors such as Thailand and Malaysia.

He highlighted the rapid advancement of Vietnam’s healthcare system over the past five years, particularly in Da Nang, with the presence of high-quality medical institutions such as Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital, Da Nang Heart Hospital, and Hoan My Hospital.

According to him, Da Nang’s strongest competitive advantage lies in its balance of beaches, mountains, mild climate, safe living conditions, and affordable cost of living, all highly attractive to the international retirement community.

However, he also noted that Vietnam still needs to address several critical barriers, including:

• Long-term visa policies for retirees
• Foreign ownership regulations for real estate
• Investment incentives for elderly care ecosystems
• International promotion of Vietnam’s healthcare capabilities

Mr. Chris Vanloon shared that international searches and interest related to retirement living in Da Nang have been rising significantly across global platforms, signaling strong potential for the city to become a leading destination for the global silver generation.

Expert Perspective  

Keynote 1: Da Nang’s Vision for a Healthy & Age-Friendly City

Dr. Dilshaad Ali, Founder & CEO of Axel Health Group, delivered a global perspective on longevity and healthcare trends for aging populations.

He shared his personal experience of undergoing a major 10-hour surgery in Ho Chi Minh City with international-standard care, affirming the rapidly improving medical expertise of Vietnam’s healthcare sector.

According to him, successful retirement destinations such as Costa Rica, Mexico, Greece, Thailand, and Malaysia share several common characteristics:

• Comfortable living environments
• Strong healthcare systems
• Retiree-friendly visa policies
• Affordable living costs
• Strong community connectivity

He emphasized that the future of healthcare will shift from centralized hospital-based treatment toward decentralized, digitalized, and personalized care models. The ultimate goal, he noted, is no longer simply “treating illness,” but preserving health, independence, and quality of life for as long as possible.

Keynote 2: Global Trends in Aged Care, Senior Living & Longevity

Mr. Yusuke Hirai, Representative of Kitahara Medical Strategies International in Hanoi, shared insights drawn from Japan’s experience as one of the world’s fastest-aging societies.

He introduced the Kitahara healthcare model, which integrates preventive care, emergency medicine, rehabilitation, and home-based care to help seniors maintain independent living for as long as possible.

According to Mr. Hirai, the gap between average life expectancy and “healthy life expectancy” in Japan remains approximately ten years, meaning many elderly individuals spend the later stages of life living with dependency or chronic illness.

He stressed that the objective of future societies should not simply be extending lifespan, but extending the years in which people can live healthy, meaningful, and independent lives.

He also advised Vietnam against directly replicating Japan’s older nursing home models, recommending instead the development of a care ecosystem grounded in scientific data, technology, and human-centered values aligned with local culture.

Keynote 3: Simple Steps to Building Vietnam’s Medical Tourism Sector: Enhancing Patient Experience & Optimizing Marketing.

Mr. David T. Boucher, Senior Brand Ambassador and Former CEO of Bumrungrad International Hospital Phuket, stated that the global medical tourism market is projected to exceed USD 230 billion by 2033.

According to him, Vietnam has tremendous potential to strengthen its position within this market thanks to:

• Competitive healthcare costs
• Rapidly improving medical expertise
• Expanding tourism infrastructure
• High-quality healthcare workforce

However, to attract international patients, Vietnam must focus on six critical factors:

• Transparency in international patient data
• International certifications such as JCI
• Stronger networks connecting international and overseas Vietnamese doctors
• Five-star hospitality-driven healthcare experiences
• Improved logistics and telemedicine infrastructure
• Development of medical travel insurance systems

He concluded that the most essential factor in global medical tourism is ultimately “trust.”

SPECIALIZED PANEL DISCUSSIONS

Panel 1: Policies, Bottlenecks & Investment Climate for Vietnam’s Senior Living Sector

The discussion focused on unlocking international capital flows and addressing legal barriers to developing Vietnam’s elderly care ecosystem.

Mr. Matthew Powell – Director, Savills Vietnam

Mr. Matthew Powell stated that international investment capital for healthcare and senior living real estate remains highly abundant, particularly from Japan, Australia, and Singapore. However, Vietnam’s key challenges lie in the shortage of experienced operators and the lack of a sufficiently clear legal framework to support long-term investment confidence.

He emphasized that healthcare real estate is no longer a traditional property model, but rather a convergence of healthcare, hospitality, and community operations.

Mr. Oscar Njuguna – Director, Membership Board, Vietnam International Financial Center

Mr. Oscar Njuguna shared that Da Nang is developing special financial mechanisms aimed at attracting international investment funds focused on healthcare and the silver economy.

According to him, the Vietnam International Financial Center (VIFC) will serve as a bridge connecting REITs, international healthcare investors, and Da Nang’s development ecosystem through:

• Tax incentives
• Investment support policies
• Fast-track visa procedures
• Regulatory sandbox mechanisms

Dr. Vo Thu Tung – Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Health

Dr. Vo Thu Tung stated that Da Nang’s healthcare sector is rapidly transitioning from a “disease treatment” model toward a comprehensive lifecycle healthcare approach.

The city is currently:

• Implementing universal electronic health records
• Expanding home-based care models
• Developing daycare services for seniors
• Collaborating with the tourism sector to create specialized medical tourism products

He revealed that Da Nang aims to launch at least five integrated medical tourism packages for international visitors in the near future.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Hong Tham – Director of Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center

Ms. Nguyen Thi Hong Tham highlighted Da Nang’s luxury accommodation ecosystem, with more than 160 five-star hotels and an expanding international airport infrastructure, creating favorable conditions for the development of premium retirement living and wellness tourism.

She also shared that the city is actively working with relevant authorities to propose long-term visa policies for the international retirement community.

Mr. Nguyen Van Quoc – Director, Da Nang IOC

From a smart city perspective, Mr. Nguyen Van Quoc explained that Da Nang is implementing sandbox mechanisms allowing businesses to pilot AgeTech, AI, and IoT healthcare solutions even before comprehensive legal frameworks are finalized.

He believes this will become a key foundation for positioning Da Nang as a future innovation hub for elderly care technology.

Panel 2: Senior Living & Elderly Care Models in Vietnam – What Solutions Are Most Suitable?

This panel discussion focused on developing care models that align with Vietnamese culture and the practical demands of an aging society.

Mr. Le Quoc Huan – Deputy CEO, Wecare247

Mr. Le Quoc Huan stated that Vietnam is aging at an exceptionally rapid pace, while preparation time remains limited. According to him, the country’s most urgent priority today is not infrastructure development, but rather the training and professionalization of caregivers.

He proposed a suitable development roadmap for Vietnam:

• Home care
• Daycare
• Long-term care

Among these, home care would be the most practical and realistic starting point.

Dr. Quach Huu Trung – Director, Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital

Dr. Quach Huu Trung emphasized that the healthcare system serves as the “anchor of trust,” influencing seniors’ decisions on where to live and retire.

He highlighted five critical issues that elderly care systems must address:

• Falls and injury prevention
• Stroke and cardiovascular diseases
• Chronic illnesses
• Dementia
• Rehabilitation

He also identified several major barriers currently facing the sector, including:

• Cultural stigma
• Workforce shortages
• Insurance limitations
• Lack of standardized operational models

Dr. Ngo Duc Hai – Founder, Chairman & CEO of Thien Nhan Medical System

Dr. Ngo Duc Hai noted that many Vietnamese families still feel hesitant about placing parents in long-term nursing homes. Therefore, daycare and homecare models are likely to be more culturally appropriate during the current stage of development.

He emphasized the role of technology in building trust among families through:

• Electronic medical record sharing
• Safety monitoring cameras and sensors
• Remote health monitoring
• International-standard healthcare data systems

Mr. Chris Vanloon – Chairman, AmCham Central Vietnam

Mr. Chris Vanloon stated that the ideal model for Da Nang’s international retirement market would integrate:

• Real estate
• Hospitality
• Healthcare and rehabilitation services

According to him, if Vietnam successfully addresses long-term visa policies and foreign property ownership regulations, Da Nang could strongly compete with the region’s leading retirement destinations.

Mr. Yusuke Hirai – Chief Representative Office in Hanoi City of Kitahara Medical Strategies International

Closing the panel discussion, Mr. Yusuke Hirai emphasized that Vietnam should develop elderly care models grounded in scientific data while maintaining a strong human-centered approach.

According to him, the future of elderly care is not about requiring patients to continuously visit hospitals, but rather about creating a comprehensive care ecosystem integrated directly into their everyday communities and living environments.

AFTERNOON SESSION

INNOVATION & BUILDING A GLOBAL ECOSYSTEM

The afternoon sessions focused on innovative solutions in longevity, digital healthcare, wellness real estate, and international operational standards for aging communities. Discussions provided multidisciplinary perspectives from experts in healthcare, technology, architecture, and operations, all aimed at building an integrated healthy living ecosystem for the Silver Generation.

Panel 1: Longevity – Preventive Healthcare & the Future of Aging

This session explored the global transition from simply “extending lifespan” toward optimizing “healthspan” — the number of years people can live healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives.

Dr. Mason Cobb – Chairman, Golden Sunrise Senior Life

Dr. Mason Cobb shared insights into the rise of “Medicine 3.0” — a next-generation healthcare model focused on prediction, prevention, and personalized treatment rather than intervention only after disease develops.

He highlighted the growing role of biohacking, personal health data, advanced diagnostics, and lifestyle optimization in extending healthy longevity. According to him, the future of healthcare will revolve around proactive care, where individuals understand their bodies early enough to prevent age-related chronic diseases before they emerge.

Mr. Nathan Gehlert – Psychology Lecturer, Fulbright University Vietnam

Professor Nathan Gehlert shared perspectives on behavioral psychology and mental well-being during aging. He stressed that regardless of how advanced technology becomes, it can never replace social connection, a sense of community belonging, and emotional health.

He particularly emphasized that:

• Chronic stress and loneliness are among the fastest accelerators of aging
• Medical knowledge alone is insufficient to change health behavior
• Healthy communities require environments where seniors can maintain purpose, social engagement, and a sense of personal value

Dr. Tang Thi Bich Thuy – Specialist in Traditional Medicine, Head of Advanced Treatment Department, Traditional Medicine Hospital

Dr. Tang Thi Bich Thuy presented an Eastern medicine perspective on longevity and the balance of body, mind, and spirit.

She compared the human body to a “symphony orchestra,” where sustainable wellbeing can only be achieved when yin-yang balance, emotions, nutrition, and lifestyle are harmoniously aligned.

According to her, Vietnam possesses unique advantages in medical tourism and wellness development through:

• Traditional medicine
• Acupuncture
• Natural herbal remedies
• Eastern-inspired rehabilitation therapies

These strengths could become Vietnam’s distinctive competitive advantage in the global healthcare and wellness industry.

Mr. Nguyen Hoai Nam – Founder & Chairman, MedArmor Vietnam

Mr. Nguyen Hoai Nam introduced the concept of the “biological silent phase” — the period before diseases become clinically apparent.

According to him, the future of longevity will depend on the ability to:

• Analyze molecular data
• Monitor the microbiome
• Predict disease risks
• Intervene early in lifestyle behaviors

He emphasized that the ultimate goal is not simply living longer, but maintaining a higher quality of life throughout the aging process.

Panel 2: Technology – Digital Healthcare, Remote Care & AI for Healthy Aging

This discussion focused on the role of technology in building smarter, more personalized, and more accessible healthcare ecosystems for seniors.

Mr. Francis Nguyen – Founder & Investor, OneMedic

Mr. Francis Nguyen emphasized that healthcare data is the foundational infrastructure for the future of global healthcare.

He stated that Vietnam should rapidly:

• Standardize healthcare data systems under international FHIR standards
• Develop cross-border data-sharing mechanisms
• Apply anonymized data encryption technologies to protect privacy while leveraging the power of global AI systems

According to him, when data is properly connected, AI can support:

• Disease risk prediction
• Personalized treatment
• Optimization of care processes
• Reduced pressure on traditional healthcare systems

Mr. Truong Minh Chuong – Founder & CEO, Smart Health Solutions

Mr. Truong Minh Chuong shared perspectives on designing healthcare technology specifically for seniors.

He emphasized that many current applications remain unsuitable for older adults because they are overly complex or create operational stress.

According to him, effective AgeTech solutions should include:

• Minimalist interfaces
• Large, easy-to-read icons
• Fixed interaction layouts
• Voice support features
• A strong sense of safety and comfort for users

The goal of technology, he noted, is not to force seniors to learn technology, but to make technology adapt naturally to seniors.

Dr. Quach Huu Trung – Director of Vinmec International & Phuoc Tran – Chief Revenue Officer of DataHouse

Dr. Quach Huu Trung emphasized that healthcare digital transformation is not solely about technology, but about redesigning operational systems around patient-centered care.

He stated that healthcare data may be decentralized, but patient care must remain integrated, seamless, and continuous throughout the treatment journey.

Sharing a similar perspective, Mr. Phuoc Tran stressed that data security and privacy are prerequisites for building trust among elderly users.

According to him, digital healthcare ecosystems can only develop sustainably when users feel fully confident that their personal health data is completely protected.

Session 3: Real Estate, Infrastructure & Urban Planning – Building Age-Friendly Communities

This session explored the role of urban planning, architecture, and community models in creating environments suitable for aging societies.

Mr. Jacky Ong – Founder & Chairman, CHG Global Organization

Mr. Jacky Ong stated that the greatest barrier to the senior living market in Asia is not financial, but cultural.

According to him, many Asian families still feel uncomfortable with traditional nursing homes because of perceptions of isolation and separation from family. Therefore, Vietnam should move toward models such as:

• Wellness communities
• Intergenerational living spaces
• Wellness real estate

These models focus on building multi-generational communities where seniors remain connected to family, nature, and society rather than being completely isolated.

Mr. Le Quoc Huan – Deputy CEO, Wecare247

Mr. Huan continued to emphasize the importance of “human touch” in elderly care.

According to him:

• Home care remains the most suitable starting point for Vietnam
• Daycare serves as an effective transitional model
• Long-term residential care will require more time for market acceptance

He particularly stressed that training and formalizing the caregiver workforce is the core foundation for building a sustainable elderly care ecosystem in the future.

Mr. Romain Duval – Founder & Managing Partner, France Vietnam Architecture

Mr. Romain Duval shared architectural and spatial design perspectives for elderly communities.

According to him, future senior living facilities should no longer feel like hospitals, but rather become:

• Emotionally enriching living spaces
• Community-centered environments
• True wellness and resort destinations

He emphasized that human-centered architectural design can directly influence emotional well-being, quality of life, and recovery outcomes for older adults.

Session 4: Quality Standards – Building Credibility to Attract International Retirees & Investors

The final session focused on international operational standards aimed at strengthening trust and enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnam’s healthcare ecosystem.

Mr. Dilshaad Ali – Founder & CEO, Axel Health Group

Mr. Dilshaad Ali emphasized that today’s greatest challenge lies in transforming traditional hospital models into “hospitality healthcare” standards, where patients are cared for like long-term hospitality guests.

According to him, user experience will become the defining factor in international competitiveness, including:

• Service quality
• Accommodation standards
• Emotional experience
• Personalized services

Mrs. Emily Chanon – Director & Wellness Development Partner, Lumina Wellbeing

Ms. Emily Chanon stated that international retirees today are not only seeking healthcare services, but also a comprehensive lifestyle ecosystem.

According to her, communities designed for seniors should ensure:

• Connection with nature
• Social engagement
• Mental wellbeing
• Local cultural experiences
• A sense of belonging

Ms. Olivia Wood – Founder & CEO, Lotus Vietnam Consulting Group

Ms. Olivia Wood shared experiences related to the “Continuity of Care” model — continuous and personalized care.

She explained that in Australia, displaying each resident’s photos, life stories, and personal memories outside their rooms not only helps caregivers better understand those under their care but also creates a sense of family, dignity, and respect for elderly residents.

Mr. David T. Boucher – Senior Brand Ambassador & Former CEO, Bumrungrad International Hospital, Phuket

Closing the discussion, Mr. David T. Boucher reiterated that the foundation of global medical tourism and international retirement ecosystems ultimately comes down to “trust.”

According to him, to build global trust, Vietnam must:

• Ensure safe clinical quality standards
• Achieve international certifications such as JCI
• Maintain patient-centered leadership cultures
• Continuously listen to and improve user experience

He concluded that if Da Nang successfully combines healthcare quality, hospitality standards, and its distinctive living environment, the city has every potential to become one of Asia’s most attractive retirement and healthcare destinations in the future.

CONCLUSION & FUTURE VISION

Da Nang Global Business Summit 2026 concluded with numerous strategic directions that lay the foundation for the development of Vietnam’s Silver Economy ecosystem.

The summit served not only as a platform for innovation in healthcare, technology, and real estate, but also as a catalyst for practical collaboration between local authorities, international investors, and professional organizations in shaping healthier, longer, and higher-quality living models for future generations.

With the support of international organizations, healthcare corporations, investment funds, and the global business community, Da Nang is steadily advancing toward becoming:

• An international hub for wellness and healthcare
• A premier destination for the global retirement community
• A leading Southeast Asian innovation ecosystem for longevity and the Silver Economy

FOR PARTNERSHIPS & COLLABORATIONS, PLEASE CONTACT:

Ms. Huynh Thanh Thuy
Founder & CEO – Lion Huynh Tran Company Limited

Phone: +84 937 173 768
Email: thuy@lionhuynhtran.com 

Event Website: Da Nang Global Business Summit Official Website

Source

Source: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.

Source