DEC 2017
Gustav Pop-up Nordic Bar event BUSINESS
TRADE
BRANDS
FAMILY
H&M and Hong Kong institute in textile recycling breakthrough
Finnish attendance at Eco Expo Asia
Nokia 7 launched in Shanghai
Finnish SuperPark comes to Hong Kong
December 2017
ScandAsia Stories
Ms. Ritva-Liisa Pohjalainen
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4 Finnish SuperPark arrives to Asia 7 Finland and Hong Kong enter Smart City co-operation 15 Nokia 7 launched in Shanghai
Finnish glass artist’s Shanghai exhibition
10 Finnish spirit Gustav in Hong Kong
ScandAsia Business
6 New Vaisala concept Air quality measuring
8 Södra increases export to China
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Mr Pekka Soini
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Director-General of brand new Business Finland
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Demand for Swedish paper pulp/sawn timber on the rise
9 H&M and Hong Kong institute in textile recycling breakthrough 12 Finnish attendance at Eco Expo Asia
Leading business solutions and experts in European pavilion
Mr. Jari Sinkari Finland’s Consul
10 15
General attended Gustav Pop-up bar
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Community
Finnish exhibition held in Shanghai
T
he glass art exhibition “The Story of a Finnish Woman” by RitvaLiisa Pohjalainen together with the “Kuopio - Capital of Lakeland” was held in late October at the Yun Jian Art Museum on the 29th floor of Shanghai World Financial Center. The centerpiece of the exhibition was the story of a Finnish woman as told in a series of glass artworks by the world-renowned Kuopio designer and glass artist, Ritva-Liisa Pohjalainen. Pohjalainen’s unique art combines Scandinavian idiom with a richness of color and materials. The Kuopio exhibition dealt with the closeness to nature that the city draws on as a source of inspiration and wellbeing in both business and art. The exhibition was celebrating the five-year history of the sister city relationship between Kuopio and Pudong New Area. Source: Consulate General of Finland, Shanghai
DEC 20
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Your FREE ScandAsia Magazine in China ScandAsia is the only magazine that covers all the Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, and Swedish residents in China. ent Bar ev Nordic Y FAMIL Pop-up BRANDS Gustav ESS BUSIN Hong Kong
H&M andin textile institute breakthrough recycling
TRADE
ce attendan Finnish Asia at Eco Expo
launched Nokia 7ghai in Shan
We also publish a ScandAsia magazine in Thailand, Singapore and the rest of South East Asia.
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Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com December 2017 • ScandAsia.China 3
News Brief
E-Commerce seminar held in Hong Kong
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n the 19 October, Swedcham HK together with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce hosted an E-Commerce seminar about doing E-Commerce in China. With speakers such as Swedcham HK member John Skalin (Sino E-tail), Arno Nieuuwland (e-Commerce Hong Kong), Boudewijn Feith (Esprit) and Nathan Jansen (1421 Consulting) the very broad topic of Chinese E-Commerce was covered from many different angles and perspectives. Swedcham HK member Johan Aledal, Partner at Johan & Johan, successfully moderated the panel discussion that followed, Tickets were sold out several days before the date and the actual event turned out a great success! Source: Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
Finnish SuperPark arrives to Asian and Hong Kong
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uperPark, the ‘friendliest all-in-one indoor activity park in the world’ from Finland, is about to bring a big burst of energy into Hong Kong’s entertainment scene. As a uniquely fun and joyful experience through movement and play SuperPark Hong Kong will officially launch in Hong Kong on 16 December 2017. Boasting a 45,000 square foot site on the ground floor of One Silversea near Olympian City, this activity park is all about bringing joyful play to people of all walks of life, offering over 20 fun, healthy and energizing activities under one roof. Expect bubbling laughter, beaming smiles and red cheeks – from kids, teenagers and adults alike. Following the authentic SuperPark concept, SuperPark Hong Kong will feature three distinct areas: Adventure Area, Game Arena and Freestyle Hall. At SuperPark Hong Kong, children and
4 ScandAsia.China • December 2017
youngsters at heart will be inspired to try out such a wealth of new sports and activities, with all equipment rental included in the ticket price such as skate board, scooter, helmet etc. All activities take place under the guidance of experienced staff, many of which are recognized coaches, and are safely away from rain, pollution, high UV or bugs and mosquitos. SuperPark Hong Kong has been purposebuilt to allow everyone to join in the fun and keep active. Family is at the heart of the SuperPark story. Taneli Sutinen, a Finnish businessman, was sitting in a café with a newspaper one day when his 4-yearold daughter grabbed him by the arm and insisted that he come play with her. Tangled among the child-sized tunnels and slides, he had a light-bulb moment: why not create an activity park where children and adults could play easily side-by-side? The Superparking lifestyle was born.
The first SuperPark opened in Vuokatti, Finland in 2012, soon followed by 10 more sites in the Nordic country. Prices of day passes will be HK$180 on weekdays, and HK$240 on weekends, public holidays and school holidays. Seven party rooms will also be available for group, bir thday or corporate activities, making SuperPark ideal for company team-building activities, birthday parties, friends’ reunions or family celebrations. SuperPark’s goal is to share the sheer joy of movement and play with people of all ages and fitness levels. The Hong Kong launch marks the start of an international expansion wave that will include Sweden, France and China. It will boast a 45,000 square foot site on the ground floor of One Silversea near Olympian City, with three distinct areas and seven party rooms available.
Hong Kong: Swedish Model at the Shared Value Forum
News Brief
Fr left: Malin Liljert, Director at Center for Child-Rights & Corporate Social Responsibility (CCRCSR); Hanna Hallin, Sustainability Manager at H&M Greater China; Lotta Liljelund, Counsellor and Head of the Center for CSR at the Embassy of Sweden in Beijing; CarlFredrik Zacharisson, Managing Director at Scania Hong Kong; Alok Jain, Managing Director at Trans-Consult Asia
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n 21 September the Sustainability Committee of SwedCham HK hosted a breakout session at the Shared Value Forum 2017 to speak about the Swedish Model – how sustainability is a natural element incorporated in the business model. Shared Value is a strategy in which companies find business oppor tunities in solving social problems, and the forum provides an opportunity for companies to meet and exchange knowledge within the area. The Shared Value Forum is hosted by the SIE
Fund in Hong Kong and the event is by invitation only, for top decision makers of companies, institutions and NGOs in Hong Kong. Simply put, Shared Value is a strategy in which companies find business opportunities in solving social problems. It is a model that allows businesses to realise innovation and growth potential by treating social problems as business objectives; maximising their competitive advantage while creating value in society. Established in September 2013, the Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development
International School of Bergen
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Fund (SIE Fund) of the HKSAR Government seeks to be a catalyst for social innovation in Hong Kong. By supporting cross-sector collaboration and capacity building, the SIE Fund seeks to build an ecosystem in which social entrepreneurs can thrive, allowing their innovative ideas, products and services to reach unmet demand and helping to alleviate problems of poverty and social exclusion Sources: SwedCham Hong Kong, SIE Fund Hong Kong
nternational School of Bergen (ISB) is situated on the west coast of Norway and offers an English language learning environment to students between the ages of 3 and 16. Our mission is to provide an internationally accredited education ser ving the business and Bergen communities.
The educational programme of ISB has been developed to help prepare its students for a successful future. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges in addition to being authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization to offer their Primary Years and Middle Years programmes.
Our students and staff
ENGELSKSPRÅKLIG PRIVATSKOLE FOR BARN OG UNGDOM MELLOM 3 OG 16 ÅR • • • • • •
Få elever i hver klasse Trygt læringsmiljø med god individuell oppfølging God kontakt med foreldre Internasjonalt godkjente og utfordrende læreplaner Utmerkede resultater i internasjonale og norske nasjonalprøver Sentral beliggenhet med bybanestopp rett utenfor døren For mer informasjon: www.isob.no eller post@isob.no
All teacher s hold univer sity degrees and appropriate teaching qualifications. Classes are small.With students and staff representing more than thir ty different nationalities, we pride ourselves in having a welcoming and including community. ISB was founded in 1975, giving us 40 years of experience as an educational institution. International School of Bergen Vilhelm Bjerknesvei 15, 5081 Bergen, Norway Phone: +4755306330 Website: www.isob.no E-mail: post@isob.no December 2017 • ScandAsia.China 5 April 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 23
News Brief
Digitalization benefits Swedcham Hong Kong seminar
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n 25 October 2017 the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong hosted the breakfast seminar ‘Reaping the strategic benefits of digitalization’. Digitalization has already entered boardroom discussions and is seen as a priority among many business leaders worldwide. But, what is the current status of digitalization? What are the trends in terms of managerial perceptions of the value and importance of digitalization? What are the traps of implementing digital strategies and business models? And, what possibilities do organizations see in deploying digital strategies? Based on a series of recent empirical studies conducted on a global basis as well as in one of the world’s most digital economies – Sweden – this presentation will illustrate some early signals of firms being trapped in the “digital divide” and how to avoid this. Understanding the current digitalization trends and future possibilities are of utmost importance for reaping the strategic benefits of digital technologies.
Speaker: Dr. Robert Demir is an Associate Professor (Docent) and Lecturer of Strategic Management at Lancaster University Management School. He received his Ph.D. from Stockholm University School of Business (Sweden). His teaching revolves around strategic management, managing strategic change, and the grand theories of management.
New ground-breaking concept from Vaisala: air quality measuring in China
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n 19 October Vaisala announced a new project for a collaborative research and demonstr ation environment concerning air quality in China. The company is building a dense air quality observation network in the megacity of Nanjing and the Yangtze River Delta in 2017-2019. The air quality services and applications developed in the project will be crucial for local air quality forecasts. They provide tools to better understand the complex air quality environment in China, and accomplish novel 3-D air quality modelling thanks to fusing observations from diverse instruments, writes Vaisala, a global leader in environmental and industrial measurement. The project advances several new growth areas in ambient air quality monitor ing: supplementar y air quality networks, remote
6 ScandAsia.China • December 2017
sensing for vertical pollutant profiling, advanced air quality modelling and nanoparticle monitoring. The key technologies have been developed in Finland and are now piloted in the demanding conditions of China. Vaisala has the lead in the project - in collaboration with the University of Helsinki, Finnish Meteorological Institute and later also with partners in China. The pilot will be built around University of Helsinki and Nanjing University collaboration in research station, SORPES, which provides a unique platform to test different versatile instrument set ups for air quality monitoring in Nanjing, China. Air quality is a growing health problem around the world. More than 80% of people living in urban areas are exposed to air pollution levels that exceed WHO limits. According to the most recent WHO assessment, approximately 7 million people died prematurely because of air pollution in 2012. While all regions of the world are affected, people in densely populated and highly polluted megacities are impacted the most. “ B e i n g a bl e t o m e a s u r e p o l l u t a n t concentrations in a dense network and applying modern modelling tools to this data make it possible to deliver air quality forecasts, which are far more meaningful and relevant for the citizens than those currently. Further, it will enhance the capabilities of authorities and decision makers as well as consumers to undertake more meaningful actions timely. Having a proof of concept for this type of network in a Chinese setting will be a requirement for successful novel business build for Air Quality networks,” says Jarkko Sairanen, Vaisala EVP for the Weather Business Area. The adverse health effects of air pollution are
caused mainly by aerosol particles suspended in the near surface air, with additional contribution coming from trace gases like ozone.Concentrations of aerosol particles have increased considerably in China over the past decades, and the most populated regions have experienced frequent and severe air pollution episodes in recent years. “The dense air quality network in Nanjing will be complemented with vertical atmospheric Vaisala LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) profiling devices. Vertical profiling of atmospheric pollutants is currently possible in a limited fashion only by using very expensive remote sensing apparatus, the use of which is limited only to research purposes,” explains Sairanen. Therefore, one important outcome of the project will be the concept for a next generation air quality station, with a capability to add a ver tical component to modelling. “With this vertical component we are able to provide a 3-D model of the local air quality, helping the customer to understand the local air quality more profoundly and thus make better informed decisions. We see great global potential in being able to combine this type of a comprehensive solution in the future”, concludes Sairanen. On the one hand, the global growth of the air quality market is driven by the megatrends of urbanization, population growth and health consciousness and on the other by new sensing and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies that open up completely new concepts for monitoring and business. The most significant geographical region regarding air quality is expected to grow in Southeast Asia and China, in particular. Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation, Tekes, has granted Vaisala funding for the project.
News Brief
Finland and Hong Kong enter Smart City co-operation
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ekka Soini, Director General of Tekes, and Eric Yeung, President of the SCC of Hong Kong, signed the MoU yesterday evening at Consul-General’s residence. The document is historic with even numbers: Finland celebrates her 100th, Hong Kong 20th anniversary, and the MoU was SCC’s 20th with 10th foreign country. The Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation (Tekes) and the Smart City Consortium (SCC) of Hong Kong on 14 November 2017 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The purpose is to enhance cooperation in the sector of smart cities and urban development. Pekka Soini, Director General of Tekes, and Eric Yeung, President of the SCC of Hong Kong represented the respective Parties. The MoU is based on the common understanding between the two that new smart city -solutions and innovations are needed in order to create future success in urban development. The Parties plan on developing new business concepts and carrying out comprehensive, stable and long-term collaboration in the areas of e.g.
smart transportation, smart buildings, ICT, smart energy, e-health and smart security. “The principles of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation are in the heart of the MoU. Finland is a country that has always been able to come up with world-class innovations in the fields of technology, education and social well-being. We are confident that our future collaborations will be beneficial to both Finland and Hong Kong. This also offers an excellent oppor tunity for Finnish companies and research organizations to enter into the very promising and dynamic Hong Kongese market”, says Pekka Soini, Director General of Tekes. The Parties wish to encourage collaborative projects in the aforementioned possible areas of collaboration, strengthen industrial participation in the innovation process, collaborate in funding of cooperative projects of Finnish and Hong Kongese organizations, encourage exchange of knowledge and accelerate bilateral cooperation and development of new service and business concepts in these potential areas of cooperation.
Tekes is the most important publicly funded exper t organisation for financing research, development and innovation in Finland. Tekes boosts wide-ranging innovation activities in research communities, industr y and ser vice sectors. Hong Kong Smart City Consortium (SCC) is formed by a group of professionals from different corporations and organizations to provide opinions and suggestions to the Government for formulating related policies and standards in the development of Hong Kong as a worldclass smar t city. They encourage worldwide collaboration with different stakeholders to create the right ecosystem which fosters innovation and sustainable economic growth for Hong Kong. The Consulate General of Finland promotes Finnish interests in Hong Kong and Macau by catalysing cooperation of relevant actors. Source: Consulate General of Finland in Hong Kong and Macao
China Cleantech Roadshow 2017
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eam Finland arranged a road show for Finnish Cleantech and Clean Energy Companies seriously aiming to the Chinese market. The road show was arranged during 12 – 16 November together with Jiangsu and Zhejiang Provinces’ Science & Technology Departments as par t of a joint effor t to facilitate research & development and innovation co-operation between Finnish and Chinese companies.
Jiangsu and Zhejiang are provinces in China with the most rapid economic growth, with the most abundant scientific resources and the highest level of innovation. Their population is all together 130 Million. The visit aimed to find new partners and business opportunities and helping in establishing business in China. During the visit the delegation attended Clean Connect 2017 conference in
Shanghai, a seminar and match-making event with Jiangsu province companies in Jiangsu (city tbc) and a seminar and match-making event with Zhejiang province companies in Hangzhou. Additionally it was possible to visit the China High Tech Fair (CHTF 2017) and Green Economy Summit in Shenzhen. The CleanConnect Conference is an annual event to facilitate international cooperation for global cleantech companies & organizations. It is an excellent opportunity and efficient way for these entities to enable business growth in China by meeting and talking to the right potential partners and investors. 2017 was the 4th of CleanConnect, bringing together 200+ entrepreneurs, investors and endusers from popular environmental sectors to create a green future in a connected world. December 2017 • ScandAsia.China 7
News Brief
Business Finland to start in 2018 with Pekka Soini as Director General
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n 1 January 2018 Business Finland will commence its operations, intended to improve service to businesses. The Finnish Government has submitted a bill for an Act on Business Finland. Business Finland will bring under the same roof all the present services of the Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation (Tekes) and Finpro related to innovation funding and internationalisation as well as to the promotion of expor ts, foreign investment in Finland and tourism. The purpose of the Act will be to create a national body that will clarify and simplify the public internationalisation services offered to
businesses, and support international cooperation in research, development and innovation as well as regional growth services.The new body would have around 600 employees and nearly 40 service locations abroad as well as, in the future, service locations in 18 counties throughout Finland. Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä is delighted that the legislative proposal will now proceed to Parliament for consideration. “A single body will take the entire lifecycle of business renewal, growth and internationalisation better into account. The unified service path will extend from the development of products, ser vices and business models all the way to
market launch and the chain will not be broken at any stage. Removing overlaps will release necessary pairs of hands into the field both in Finland and abroad,” says Minister Lintilä. Pekka Soini, Director General of Tekes, will continue as Director General of the new Business Finland body after the law is adopted. Soini will work closely with Per tti Korhonen, Chair of Business Finland’s Change Management Board. “The Business Finland reform has been prepared as a close collaborative effort with the Change Management Board, which consists of representatives of Finpro and Tekes management, customers and stakeholders. The goal is to serve customers better than before when the new Business Finland is launched,” says Pertti Korhonen. The Government bill proposes the passing of an Act on Business Finland – the Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation and the establishment of wholly state-owned limited company named Business Finland. The funding agency will be responsible for strategic leadership and official tasks, for example funding decisions.The company will focus on customer service. The Act is intended to enter into force on 1 January 2018. The Government announced the establishment of the new body in March 2017. Source: Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment
Södra increases export to China
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ödra, Sweden’s largest forest-owner association, repor ts that demand for products from the Swedish forest is on the increase in China. In 2017, Södra increased sales of paper pulp by more than 50 percent. At the same time, Södra’s sales of sawn timber in the country have increased steadily since 2010. Södra’s core markets for both paper pulp and sawn timber are located in Europe. However, China is currently one of the fastest expanding markets. In January–September this year, Södra’s sales of paper pulp increased by more than 50 per cent to the countr y compared with the same period in 2016. Uses for paper pulp include cardboard packaging, and toilet and kitchen paper. “Growth in China is robust.With the increased volumes provided by our investments we can tap into this growth. Demand for raw material from certified forest is on the increase with a clear focus on sustainability, and this is something we can contribute towards,” said Magnus Björkman, Vice President Marketing and Sales, Södra Cell International. The market is showing no signs of slowing in the near future and there is also strong pressure for sawn timber to China. Södra began delivering sawn timber to the country in 2010 and sales have grown each year. Södra established a sales office for sawn timber in Shanghai in 2015. To
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meet rising demand in the region, an additional sales office was opened in Hong Kong on 1 October. Starting in 2018, Södra’s position in China will be further strengthened when a new purchasing office is established in Shanghai, under the name of Södra International Trading. Focus will be on
purchasing indirect materials, such as machinery and processing equipment. Södra is Sweden’s largest forest-owner association, with more than 50,000 forest owners as its members. Södra is also an international forest industry Group, with operations based on processing its members’ forest products.
Business
H&M and Hong Kong institute in textile recycling breakthrough
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ithin a four-year innovative partnership the non-profit H&M Foundation and The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) has announced groundbreaking solutions to recycle blend textiles into new fabrics and yarns – without any quality loss – through a hydrothermal (chemical) process.The technology will be scaled up and made available to the global fashion industry. The finding is a major breakthrough in the journey towards a closed loop for textiles. The partnership commenced in September 2016, part of H&M Foundation´s commitment within its focus area Planet, where all initiatives have the aim to safeguard not only the planet but also the living conditions for people and communities around the world. The aim of the ‘Closed-Loop Apparel Recycling Eco-System Program’ is to find at least one ready technology to recycle clothes made from blend textiles, within the four-year project period. “For too long the fashion industry has not been able to properly recycle its products, since there’s no commercially viable separation, sorting, and recycling technology available for the most popular materials such as cotton and polyester blends. This very encouraging finding has the potential to change that. We are very excited to develop this technology and scale it beyond the laborator y, which will benefit the global environment, people and communities,” says Erik Bang, Innovation Lead at H&M Foundation. The partnership in Hong Kong is backed by an estimated 5.8 million euros of funding, with HKRITA conducting the research and work to commercialise the outcomes. The Innovation and Technology Fund of the Hong Kong SAR
Government also provides additional substantial funding and support.The total project investment is estimated to around 30 million euros during the four-year collaboration (2016-2020), which makes it one of the biggest and most comprehensive efforts ever for textile recycling. One year into the partnership, HKRITA has together with Ehime University and Shinshu University in Japan, successfully developed a hydrothermal (chemical) process to fully separate and recycle cotton and polyester blends. The recovered polyester material can be reused directly, without any quality loss.The hydrothermal process uses only heat, water and less than 5% biodegradable green chemical, to self-separate cotton and polyester blends. This fibre-to-fibre recycling method is cost effective, and there’s no secondary pollution to the environment, ensuring the life of the recycled material is prolonged in a sustainable way. “By being able to upcycle used textiles into new high value textiles, we no longer need to solely rely on virgin materials to dress a growing world population. This is a major breakthrough in the pursuit of a fashion industry operating within the planetary boundaries,” says Edwin Keh, CEO
of HKRITA. It is H&M’s customers’ engagement that have enabled this impor tant research, as the exact financial contribution is determined by the annual surplus from H&M’s global in-store garment collecting program, which is donated to H&M Foundation. To date the H&M Foundation has donated 2.4 million euros to the research institute. Next, the technology will be scaled up and tested further before being made available to the global fashion industry. When finalised, the technology will be licensed widely to ensure broad market access and maximum impact. It will benefit the environment as well as people and communities. H&M Foundation is a non-profit global foundation, privately funded by the Stefan Persson family, founders and main owners of H&M group. Its mission is to drive long lasting positive change and improve living conditions by investing in people, communities and innovative ideas. Since 2013, the Stefan Persson family has donated 1.3 billion Swedish krona ($177 million/€144 million) to the Foundation HKRITA was established in April 2006, with funding support from Innovation and Technology Commission, HKSAR Government, to enhance Hong Kong’s “cutting edge”. by institutes, companies and associations in the textile and clothing industr y in Hong Kong, mainland China and other countries also suppor t the research institute that is hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Core competencies include textile technology, textile chemistry, apparel technology, fashion and textile design, textile management, quality management, marketing, merchandising, and fashion retailing. December 2017 • ScandAsia.China 9
Community
Finnish spirit Gustav cele
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By Joakim Persson / Photos: Lignell & Piispanen ustav is the name of Finnish premium range of spirits, produced by Finland’s oldest alcohol producer still in production, Lignell & Piispanen. Gustav reflects both Gustav III (the late Swedish King) and Gustav Ranin. So today they Finnish distillery represents and arctic legacy that dates back 160 years. On 2 November, this Finnish distillery had invited to the Hong Kong Pop-up bar,featuring three Nordic Gustav cocktails (held at VEA Restaurant & Lounge. D’Evenitif Co. Ltd. (representative of Nordic food and bever ages) hosted
the event where master mixologist Antonio Lai had created three Gustav Nordic cocktails. These were served during the whole evening together with canapés prepared by Michelin Chef Vicky Cheng. Mr Jari Sinkari, Consul-General of Finland in Hong Kong and Macau; and Mr Joakim Ladeborn, Acting Consul-General of Sweden in Hong Kong, honoured the event with their attendance in promoting the Nordic culinary culture together. It was an evening where the Gustav cocktails were raised in a toast for new friendships and the Hong Kong-Finland culinary exchange.
Joakim Ladeborn
Jari Sinkari
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Gustav Ranin’s legacy lives on in Lignell & Piispanen’s business. Ever since the day he took on the king’s distillery, from generation to generation, from father to son, they have learned through experience and increased their knowledge with the goal of creating the world’s finest liqueurs, vodkas and wines from Mother Nature’s arctic splendour. Mr Harri Nylund tells ScandAsia more about the background of Lignell & Piispanen: “It is an auxiliary company name for Oy Gust. Ranin which is Finnish family company founded already in 1852 by Gustav Ranin. Gustav Ranin was my grandgrand-grand-grand-father and the owners of the company are now in fifth and sixth generation, myself included. Oy Gust. Ranin started distilling in 1859 when the company bought the Swedish Crown distillery from Kuopio. Crown Distillery was founded by Gustav III so the brand name Gustav reflects both Gustav III and Gustav Ranin. Gustav is our premium range which includes 6 different berry liqueurs and 3 vodkas.” If any reader is not familiar with the Gustav brand it is not surprising: “Though we’ve been a spirit business for more than 150 years Gustav brand was launched in spring 2013. It was launched for export markets only and only in past 1,5 years we have sold Gustav also in domestic sales.” So far, they have more than 20 expor t countries, of which five are in Asia China (Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore) and the rest mainly in Europe. They also export some
ebrated in Hong Kong quantities to South America. Harri agrees that high quality Nordic artisan distilleries have become a trend: “Definitely. This can especially be seen in Finland and Sweden. We have many new handcraft distilleries here and one reason for that could be the botanicals. We have good and wide range of wild botanicals and berries what can be used in the production. Nature is clean as well as the water which is a good base for the spirit production.” For the Finnish distillery, the use of arctic berries is both a steadfast principle and a precious privilege, handpicked from nearby forests. The positioning of Lignell & Piispanen’s products differ s from mar ket to mar ket: “Segments are very much different in different areas/countries. In the Nordics we are mainly focusing to the wide crowd, due to the fact that the spirits we produce are highly popular here. Elsewhere, especially in Asia and South Europe we are focusing more to a niche segment. I would also say that berry liqueurs are more niche-focused while vodkas are more for a wide segment. But our offering is definitely Premium what comes to packaging, design and ingredients, berries and botanicals we use.” D’Evenitif Co Ltd. in Hong Kong helps a selection of premium Nordic food and beverage companies, such as Lignell & Piispanen and several distilleries and manufacturers, in their marketing and distribution in Greater China regions and Southeast Asia. “We believe in connecting the Nordic culinary
culture and their handcrafting excellence, adding value to the highly demanding F&B industry in Asia.We started our Nordic F&B journey working with a small family-owned Finnish distillery in Ranua, Finland and they’re now expor ting to Hong Kong, selling at City’super and some of the top hotels in Hong Kong,” replies Annie Wang, Director and Founder. And the main reason for focusing on products from this region in the world? “We believe in the Nordics! It’s the quality the products have, combined with the honesty and transparency of the people behind these companies, brands and products that deserve to be known to Asia. Not only are we representing the products, but the people who have worked hard and long to build up what they have, no matter whether it’s a big or a small team. It’s their passion that we are blessed to work with,” she continued. D’Evenitif has also partnered up with Food from Finland: “In Hong Kong, we have been recognised as their permanent partner in their global network, keeping them updated on the latest news of the Finnish manufactures in this part of the area, and looking after their suppliers that visit Hong Kong under the Food from Finland brand.” “We focus a lot on B2B, and the retail market through reputable retailers such as City’super and small-scale ‘retail’ fairs through which we introduce the products and tastings. Yet, 5-6 starred hotels, top restaurants, bars, chefs and sommeliers are those we principally work with. December 2017 • ScandAsia.China 11
Business
Finnish attendance at Eco Expo Asia
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n 26 – 29 October the 12th annual Eco Expo Asia fair took place in Hong Kong at the AsiaWor ld-Expo, featur ing a number of Finnish leading exper ts and business solutions. Finland made up almost a half of the companies at the fair’s European Pavilion.The Eco Expo gathers industry experts from Hong Kong, mainland China and other Asian. The fair is an international trading platform showcasing the latest innovations in environmental protection industries from around the world. Areas of specialty covered at the fair include Air & Water Quality, Eco-friendly Product, Energy Efficiency & Energy, Green Building as well as Waste Management and Recycling. Its last day was also open to the public to promote eco awareness. Under the theme ‘Innovative Solutions for Greener Cities’ the expo featured 14 overseas pavilions and group participations together with 10 zones that displayed a broad spectrum of green products and technologies. In the Finland Pavilion Eco-Living, Molok, the City of Tampere, Tredea (the Tampere Region Economic Development Agency), the Tampere regional solid waste management ltd and Clewer Oy presented their technologies and solutions. Finnish company Visedo exhibited separately. The Eco Asia Conference is one highlight of the expo. Nearly 50 government officials and experts from 10 countries and regions shared their insights on a range of topics that include green policies and business opportunities, waste management and recycling, smart sponge city self sustainable water cycle, green buildings and renewable energies and usage. Finland held a Finnish Cleantech seminar. In addition, the Green Transportation Forum examined the latest trends in electric vehicles,
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electric vessels and green public transportation facilities. This year’s fair also included the inaugural Start-up zone, which gave global exposure for innovative star t-ups and brings exciting new elements to the expo. 15 start-ups from Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland and Singapore showcase the latest green technologies.
Intro to Finnish agancies and companies in attendance at Eco Expo Asia: City of Tampere
Tampere is Finland’s third largest city and one of the country’s fastest growing regions. Committed to creating a healthy, safe and pleasant environment for all of its residents, the city places high impor tance on its housing and building development and will showcase a variety of clean technologies. Tampere region features strong cleantech competence. The strong foundation for the technology industry in the region provides a possibility to integrate cleantech solutions in products and industrial processes more widely. City of Tampere just launched it’s smar t city ecosystem program called “grow.smart.together”. One the strategic future topics of the city will be Smart Energy, Water & Waste. The aim of Smart Energy,Water & Waste is to use new technologies to better manage our scarce resources for a more sustainable world.
Clewer Logistics Oü
Clewer is a leading developer of patented water cleaning technology. It operates in the global market. Through our long-term development wor k, combining the results of ear lier developments and the latest innovations, we
create environmentally friendly solutions for more efficient water recycling. Clewer group of companies is an Environmental technology company with products that are specialized in innovative waste water treatment systems. Developed and patented for centrifugal bioreactor for waste water treatment, the Rotating Bed Biofilm Reactor (RBBR) technology provides the highest degree of filling of carrier material on the market. Other patents include the Star-Up bacteria mixture, flotation unit, clarifier, optical sensor and fish-farming solution.
Eco Living Limited
Eco Living Limited is the first company addressing indoor climate with single solution – the every climate all-in-one ventilation, air purification and dehumidification system. Being a sole authorized agent for the clean tech Finnish company, Ensto Oy, in Hong Kong, Macau and China, thei products are manufactured to high standards in Europe which are efficient and sound from both an economical and environmental perspective. Other products include Ensto underfloor heating, LED lighting and EV-charging.
Finpro Oy
Challenging Arctic climate conditions have driven solution-centred Finns to create innovative environments for economic and sustainable working and living. Cleantech Finland brings together fresh ideas and best solutions for advanced cleantech business.
Molok Oy
Molok is a clean, safe and economical solution for efficient and environmentally-friendly waste collection. The versatile product range includes both Deep Collection® - and surface containers. The products have found a home in a variety of
Business
cultures around the world with more than 140 000 containers delivered.The environments, costs and time are saved on a daily basis by millions of people worldwide. This effective method has grown into a comprehensive product range for all waste management needs.
Tredea
The Tampere Region Economic Development Agency maintains and strengthens the magnetism of the Tampere central region and fosters prerequisites for successful business. Tredea provides free services, information and assistance to companies and individuals looking to invest or start a business venture in the region. Tredea’s
cleantech & energy cluster is rapidly growing providing sustainability and welfare to the region. The targets of the Tampere regional solid waste management ltd’s environmental policy are waste prevention, recycling, waste-to-energy and reducing the amount of landfilled waste. The activities of the company include collection, processing and disposal of waste, research and development, as well as consumer advice on waste management issues.
Visedo
Visedo is a Finnish high-tech company specializing in electrical power trains and power train components for mobile machinery and heavy
commercial vehicles such as buses, lorries and ships. With these products, customers can create more efficient electrical systems that meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations and deliver major fuel savings. Visedo has frequently been ranked among the top 20 Finnish growth companies and has been included on an international list of the 100 most interesting cleantech companies. Sources: Consulate General of Finland in Hong Kong and Macau, Eco Expo Asia
Finnish education know-how promoted in Hong Kong and China
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he Minister of Education of Finland, Ms. Sanni Grahn-Laasonen and a Finnish Business Delegation visited the People’s Republic of China; Beijing and Hong Kong SAR on 9- 12 October 2017. Ms Sanni Grahn-Laasonen is the first Finnish Minister of Education and Science having visited Hong Kong. Her action packed program on October 11 contained a meeting with Secretary for Education Mr. Kevin Yeung, press conference, a luncheon with higher education representatives, a business seminar and an evening reception. The underlying idea of her tour in Beijing and Hong Kong was to intensify governmental, academic and business links. A large official and business delegation, representing all aspects of Finnish know-how in the field of teaching and learning, accompanied the Minister. The Education Seminar in honour of the first visit of the Minister of Education of Finland and a Business Delegation to Hong Kong received a great response, reported the Finnish Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong. In the delegation programme Minister of Education of Finland thanked their hosts and partners in the People’s Republic of China for the December 2017 • ScandAsia.China 13
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keen interest in Finnish education excellence and expanding cooperation possibilities in the field. “Over the decades, both China and Finland have made big leaps in providing high quality education for all citizens. China and Finland, we both share the idea that education and knowledge is the key to future and prosperity.” “I feel confident in saying that good quality education has played a major role in transforming Finland into a modern and advanced society, what it is today. Finnish education system is built upon the principles of providing equal opportunities for all, maintaining a high professionalism for teachers as well as promoting lifelong learning,” Sanni Grahn-Laasonen continued. “Learner-centred approaches and wellbeing of students are at the heart of our system. Also, advanced learning technologies offer new insights to learning in the future.” “Nowadays, Finland is seen one of the most innovative countries in the world for its forwardlooking and successful educational initiatives. The same strong commitment to improve education for the benefit of the country is very visible in China too. Therefore, I am looking forward to discussing the future of education, exchanging views and expertise with you and your leaders. Today, more than before, it is important to share our thoughts, ideas, practices and beliefs on what works and what does not.” Sanni Grahn-Laasonen mentioned that with distinguished colleagues from all over the world she has met they speak the same language when it comes to improving their education sectors and systems for the benefit of their society and people. “It gives me great pleasure to visit China. I am arriving with a highly professional delegation, 14 ScandAsia.China • December 2017
representing rectors from our higher education institutions, well-exper ienced education experts, members from education consultancy and technology companies, and from my own administration. “Our universities and universities of Applied Sciences offer cooperation in various fields of sciences, study opportunities for degree programs and teacher training programs focusing on research informed knowledge on learning. Our education system specialists have the expertise in expanding access, openness and flexibility in education systems for meeting the needs of tomorrow’s society and business life as well as wellbeing of our children. Our Technology companies showcase delivery tools for latest education resources and up-to-date learning. “Finland is ready to continue partnering with China in various fields ranging from education, social and health services to digital technology. I can only highlight the importance of knowing better each other and sharing of our existing experiences and practices. This will help us both in our work towards making a better future for all of us.“ The delegation programme also presented: Why Finland? “Finland has a long track record at the top of the world rankings. Guaranteed, China can benefit from our expertise in its enhancement of education. World-leading teacher training and curriculum development in the field of education, teacher education and training is currently one of the most sought areas of expertise from Finland. Our higher education institutions offer a wide range of degree programs, training courses and modules to enhance the abilities of teachers and other education professionals. The tailor-made
programs focus on improving knowledge and practical skills, and are delivered in a variety of ways: as e-learning/m-learning programs, lectures, workshops, mentoring sessions, intensive training and study visits. “Our expertise in curriculum development helps to create an education system in which students are able to achieve their full potential. Harnessing the digital transformation Finland enjoys one of the most advanced and expansive applications of digital technology in education consisting of formal as well as extracurricular learning through technology. Finnish EdTech companies combine world-class pedagogical expertise with innovative solutions. “Cloud-based e-learning platforms and infrastructure solutions, assessment systems, educational games and software, digital learning content and other solutions play a major role in bringing down costs and engaging learners in new and innovative ways. Attractive and motivating learning environments Schools in Finland benefit from architecture, classroom design, furniture and lighting that are sound, safe and generally conducive for a positive learning environment. “The physical environment is one of the key ingredients making the Finnish education system a global leader. Innovative school buildings and classroom design enables multifunctional learning and encourages students to do their best. There are new developments and advances in hybrid learning environments, combining the physical and digital spheres.” Sources: Photo credit http://helmiphotography.com Finnish Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong, Consulate General of Finland in Hong Kong and Macau
News Brief
Nokia 7 launched in Shanghai
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n 19 October HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, announced Nokia 7, a compact, design-led smartphone wrapped in 7000 series aluminium chassis with diamond cut bevelled edges. The pocketable beauty has a sleek glass finish including a 3D glass curvature back – the perfect storytelling accessory for style-forward users. Beautiful, pocketable and compact, the Nokia 7 is packed with creative tools including; a ZEISS imaging experience with Dual-Sight technology, highly sensitive cameras to capture crisp imagery even in low light conditions and Nokia OZO Audio to record immersive sound. The recorder captures sound in incredible highfidelity surround sound with playback on any device or web service. Harnessing both front and rear cameras simultaneously directly from your camera app, the Dual-Sight technology creates the “Bothie” - a split screen visual for both photos and videos that simultaneously delivers both sides of the story. The wide-angle primary camera captures 4K video recording at 30 fps, meaning moments can always be captured in stunning ultra-high definition.
Both front and back cameras capture wide angles and have great low-light performance for outstanding images in varying conditions. The 16 MP rear camera is equipped with powerful ZEISS imaging technology to enhance your storytelling experience. With a bright LCD display the result is an amazing visual experience suitable for all conditions, paired with the latest clean, secure and up-to-date AndroidTM Nougat operating system (upgradeable to Android Oreo). The Nokia 7’s 7000 series aluminium chassis adds strength and beauty with diamond cut bevelled edges, combining premium materials with stylish design and the craftsmanship you would expect from a Nokia phone. It also features a thermally formed, vacuum moulded Corning® Gorilla® Glass front and back to deliver a strong and sleek silhouette. The Finnish phone is also described as
Nordic event: outcomes from the 19th Communist Party Congress
a bigger experience without the bigger handset thanks to the tightly packaged 5.2” screen and 7.9mm slim body. It also features an integrated fingerprint sensor, positioned on the back of the phone, and will be available in Gloss Black and Matte White. Nokia 7 harnesses the fast and powerefficient Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM 630 Mobile Platform, which has been seamlessly integrated to maximise performance and battery life, enabling features like Dual-Sight. Nokia 7 delivers a clean Android experience, with no skins or UI layers, to match its effortlessly chic design. It features the latest Android Nougat 7.1.1 operating system (upgradable to Android Oreo in the future). Monthly security updates help keep your Nokia 7 secure. “To some people, a smartphone is purely functional, to others it’s a vital luxury accessory, a cannot-live-without partner that reflects so much of their personal style and lifestyle. Nokia 7 is a design-led style-icon that doesn’t compromise on functionality. We’ve packed in our latest innovations, like Dual-Sight, which gave rise to the Bothie phenomenon – a culturally relevant feature that has captured the imaginations of content creators around the world. Unique capabilities and iconic style encapsulate Nokia 7,” said Juho Sarvikas, Chief Product Officer, HMD Global
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Nordic chamber joint event took place in Beijing on 15 November that focused on what foreign companies need to know after 19th Communist Party Congress. More than 35 people from Nordic companies joined this meeting. The speaker Mr. Andrew Polk gave an overview of the outcomes from the 19th Communist Party Congress with a specific focus on economic policies and the business environment in China, including inbound and outbound investment climates, Belt and Road Initiative enshrined in the Party constitution, Key points of Xi’s economic agenda, etc. The event gave great insights for foreign companies to understand what the Congress was all about and to prepare their business for the future political reality in China. Source: Finnish Business Council Beijing December 2017 • ScandAsia.China 15
Celebrating 60 years
of British international education
Every experience is a learning opportunity. Activities such as Residential visits, Model United Nations, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award programme and access to an incredible variety of extra-curricular activities do more than just take our students out of the classroom. These enrich learning, bolster personal and social development and promote the important attributes of open-mindedness, inquiry and informed risk-taking in our students. 643 Lasalle Road Bangna, Bangkok 10260 BTS Bangna or Bearing www.patana.ac.th admissions@patana.ac.th +66 (0) 2785 2200
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