| | AUGUST 20248IN FOCUSMarubeni Corporation, via its wholly-owned Singapore-based subsidiary, Marubeni Growth Capital Asia, has acquired additional shares in AIG Asia Ingredients Corporation (AIG). This investment, following an initial one in October 2023, is intended to bolster the strategic partnership between Marubeni and AIG. AIG is a supplier and manufacturer of food ingredients and packaged food products.AIG plays a crucial role in the Vietnam food market, which is the fastest growing market in Southeast Asia, with annual growth of approximately 8 percent. The company provides food and functional ingredient solutions, which are becoming increasingly important to branded packaged food and beverage product customers. AIG supplies a diverse range of food ingredients, including specialty and high-value nutritional ingredients, and develops food ingredient solutions with its in-house innovation center, which accommodates the growing consumer demand for convenience and healthy foods.Furthermore, the company's business and product portfolio continues to expand as its operational capability extends beyond distribution to manufacturing and innovation. Since its initial investment, Marubeni has been a strategic business partner working with AIG on its long-term strategic plan, expanding its natural food ingredients portfolio and new business development initiatives. Through this collaboration, Marubeni has gained additional confidence in AIG's strategy to build on its solid business foundation, extensive customer network, and high growth potential through portfolio expansion.Marubeni views a strong alignment between AIG and the strategic objectives of its Next-Generation Corporate Development Division, prompting the acquisition of additional shares to deepen their partnership. Established in 2022 to create a new growth portfolio, this division has focused on the food and beverage sector in Southeast Asia. By investing in AIG, Marubeni aims to support its growth strategy and capitalize on the expanding food market in the region. Vietnam and Laos are enhancing their cooperation in disaster management by building data and communication centers. This strategic alliance was formalized during the third bilateral meeting between the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) and the Lao Ministry of Technology and Communications (MTC).A central topic of the meeting was the execution of draft proposals for establishing a data and communication center dedicated to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes, and a national center for data storage and cloud computing in Laos. These initiatives were detailed in the minutes of the 46th Session of the Vietnam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee on Bilateral Cooperation in 2024.To accelerate these projects, the Institute of Geophysics under VAST and the Research Institute for Smart Technology (ARIST) under MTC have set up a joint laboratory for earthquake data and communication. VAST has also supplied crucial equipment and training to 15 ARIST officers in data analysis. Both agencies have pledged to ongoing collaboration in human resources development, capacity building in technology and innovation, and knowledge sharing in digital technology.In recognition of his contributions to scientific and technological collaboration, Lao Minister of Technology and Communications Boviengkham Vongdara was awarded the title of "Honorary Professor" by the Academy of Science and Technology under VAST. These developments highlight the robust bilateral relationship between Vietnam and Laos and their mutual dedication to leveraging technology for the benefit of their populations. MARUBENI BOOSTS PRESENCE WITH ADDITIONAL STAKE IN AIG ASIA INGREDIENTSVIETNAM & LAOS BOOST DISASTER READINESS WITH NEW DATA CENTERS
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