Technology: NEC to acquire NetCracker, leader in operations support systems

NEC Strengthens global software business helping communications service providers accelerate business transformation

Tokyo (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - NEC Corporation (NEC) today announced a definitive agreement to acquire NetCracker Technology Corp. (NetCracker), a US based software and solutions company with an industry leading track record of delivering Operations Support Systems (OSS) transformation to communications service providers across the globe. This strategic acquisition underscores NEC's long standing commitment to offer innovative solutions to the communications industry, enabling them to transform their business, and rapidly deploy new infrastructure and services.

With this acquisition, NEC adds a key element of software and services to its market leading portfolio of mobile and fixed infrastructure products. NetCracker's products, services and domain expertise will be integral to leveraging complementary assets within both companies.

"NetCracker has distinguished itself with a record of successful OSS transformations and exceptional software solutions and professional services for leading communications service providers," said Mr. Kaoru Yano, President of NEC.

"The acquisition of NetCracker strengthens NEC's offerings and brings even greater value to the global communications industry."

"NEC and NetCracker share a vision of operations and business support systems being critical to communications service providers, enabling them to build a sustainable competitive advantage," said Andrew Feinberg, CEO of NetCracker. "NEC's scale and solution offering will help usextend our core application and services footprint and continue to broaden the solutions we offer to our global customers."

NEC's communications carrier business is continually expanding and the company's superior lineup of telecommunication products includes full-line and full layer support; the early adoption of NGN related business and globally competitive business models such as Pasolink and submarine cable systems.

NEC will now leverage the acquisition of NetCracker to strengthen its existing business foundations and to provide total solutions for communications businesses whose IP and service diversification needs continue to grow. The company anticipates that Operations Support Systems will represent a key element to new international growth that is expected to generate approximately 200 billion yen over the next 5 years.

NetCracker's know-how of transforming Operations Support Systems enables communications service providers to deploy new services, build operational excellence and closer customer relationships. As service providers move to an all-IP environment and become more diversified, the company's expertise becomes an increasingly essential element of their success.

Furthermore, the ongoing debut of innovative new services, including IPTV, Triple-Play, 3G and others, provides exciting new opportunities for deploying the next generation of OSS. NetCracker employs approximately 1,000 people worldwide and its customers include France Telecom, MTS, Sprint, TELUS, Telstra, UPC and many other leading communications service providers spanning the globe.

The new business relationship is expected to foster innovative new solutions that address the needs of communications service providers and accelerate NEC's international software business. NEC is committed to retaining the relationships and go-to-market strategies that NetCracker has developed. Upon the closing of the transaction, NetCracker will operate as an independent business unit led by its current management team and will become the centerpiece of NEC's communications service provider software business.

About NEC

NEC Corporation is one of the world's leading providers of Internet, broadband network and enterprise business solutions dedicated to meeting the specialized needs of a diversified global base of customers. NEC delivers tailored solutions in the key fields of computer, networking and electron devices, by integrating its technical strengths in IT and Networks, and by providing advanced semiconductor solutions through NEC Electronics Corporation. The NEC Group employs more than 150,000 people worldwide.

For additional information, please visit the NEC website at: http://www.nec.com About NetCracker NetCracker Technology is a leading global Solution Company enabling Service Providers to deliver rapidly and manage effectively convergent and content-rich offerings. NetCracker delivers service and resource management through its software and implementation expertise.

NetCracker's portfolio includes a comprehensive suite of product modules as well as specialized vertical solutions (such as Triple Play), all pre-integrated with the NetCracker Framework. Founded in 1993, NetCracker Technology is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, and can be reached at +1-781-419-3300 or www.NetCracker.com.

NEC is a registered trademark of NEC Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Other product or service marks mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners. (c)2008 NEC Corporation.

NEC Corp. Press Contacts (Japan):
Takehiko Kato t-kato@cj.jp.nec.com +81-3-3798-6511
Joseph Jasper j-jasper@ax.jp.nec.com +81-3-3798-6511 (USA)
Kosuke Yamauchi K-yamauchi@ce.jp.nec.com +1-212-326-2504
NetCracker Technology Press Contacts (USA):
Sanjay Mewada sanjay.mewada@netcracker.com +1-781-419-3356
SOURCE: NEC Corporation

Health/Medical: European CHMP Issues Positive Opinion on Cymbalta for the Treatment of Generalised Anxiety Disorder

INDIANAPOLIS, June 27 (ANTARA/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) --

Eli Lilly and Co (NYSE: LLY) and Boehringer Ingelheim today announced that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) has issued a positive opinion supporting the approval of Cymbalta(R) (duloxetine hydrochloride) for the treatment of Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

The positive opinion is based upon the results of five clinical studies -- four double-blind placebo-controlled studies and a relapse prevention study -- involving more than 2,000 non-depressed adults with GAD. In each of the four placebo controlled studies safety and efficacy were assessed. Duloxetine significantly improved core anxiety symptoms (as measured by the Hamilton Anxiety Scale), compared with placebo (p less than or equal to 0.001, p=0.02, p=0.007, p less than or equal to 0.001 respectively) (1,2,3,4) and demonstrated improvement in role functioning, including ability to perform everyday activities in work, home and in social situations.(5,6) In addition, duloxetine significantly decreased the likelihood of relapse in those patients who initially responded to duloxetine and were maintained on treatment for six months compared with those switched to placebo.(7) The most common side effects in these studies included nausea, fatigue, dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, insomnia, decreased appetite, hyperhidrosis, decreased libido, vomiting, ejaculation delay and erectile dysfunction.

Although global prevalence is not currently known, more than nine million Europeans (8,9) and six million people in Central and South America are estimated to suffer from GAD.(10) Difficult to detect, due to the fact that the condition presents with a variety of symptoms,(11) GAD is characterised by more than simple anxiety. The disorder is diagnosed when patients suffer from excessive anxiety and worry about a number of events and activities (such as performance at work or school) over a sustained period of at least six months.(12)

"If left untreated, symptoms of Generalised Anxiety Disorder may progress to prevent patients from working and operating in daily social situations," said Dr. Christer Allgulander of the Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm. "According to population and primary care surveys the majority of people suffering from anxiety, and their physicians, still have unmet needs. This positive opinion on duloxetine creates another effective pharmacotherapy option that will help patients feel better, and help physicians in their aim to improve functioning for those suffering from this debilitating condition."

Duloxetine, a member of a class of drugs commonly referred to as serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors,(13) is already approved to treat major depressive disorder and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain. Duloxetine gained marketing authorisation for the treatment of GAD in Mexico in 2006 and in the United States in 2007.

Notes to Editors:

About Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Approximately nine million Europeans (8,9) and six million people in Central and South America are estimated to suffer from GAD.(10) Quality of life is affected as symptoms of GAD can include exaggerated worry or chronic anxiety, irritability and poor concentration. Ability to work is often compromised with the manifestation of physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, sleep disturbance and nausea.(12) The illness tends to be chronic with periods of exacerbation and remission. Patients report that episodes of generalized anxiety disorder are often brought on, or worsened, by stressful life events.(14)

About Duloxetine
While duloxetine's mechanism of action in humans is not fully known, it is believed to affect both serotonin and norepinephrine/noradrenaline mediated nerve signalling in the brain and the spinal cord. Based on pre-clinical studies, duloxetine is a balanced and potent reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine/noradrenaline. Scientists believe its effect on pain perception is due to increasing the activity of serotonin and norepinephrine in the central nervous system.

Duloxetine is approved for the treatment of depression and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, in many countries and is approved in some countries for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence, Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Duloxetine is approved only for adults 18 and over. There is a possibility of an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviour in children and young adults treated with antidepressants. Patients should call their doctor right away if they experience worsening depression symptoms, unusual changes in behaviour or thoughts of suicide, especially at the beginning of treatment or after a change in dose.

Patients taking duloxetine may experience dizziness or fainting upon standing. The most common side effects of duloxetine include:

-- For depression: Nausea, dry mouth, headache, insomnia, diarrhea

-- For diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain: Nausea, somnolence (sleepiness), fatigue, headache, dizziness

-- For stress urinary incontinence: Nausea, dry mouth, fatigue

-- For Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Nausea, fatigue, dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, insomnia, decreased appetite, hyperhidrosis, decreased libido, vomiting, ejaculation delay and erectile dysfunction.

(This is not a complete list of side effects.)

Duloxetine is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to it, who have liver disease resulting in hepatic impairment, who are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin or enoxacine or who have severe kidney disease. The initiation of treatment with duloxetine also is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension that could expose them to a potential risk of hypertensive crisis.

Eli Lilly and Company and Boehringer Ingelheim
In November 2002, Eli Lilly and Company and Boehringer Ingelheim signed a long-term agreement to jointly develop and commercialize duloxetine hydrochloride. This partnership covers neuroscience indications in most countries outside of the United States and Japan, with few exceptions.

About Eli Lilly and Company
Lilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation, is developing a growing portfolio of best-in-class pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Lilly provides answers - through medicines and information - for some of the world's most urgent medical needs. Additional information about Lilly is available at www.lilly.co.uk.

About Boehringer Ingelheim,
The Boehringer Ingelheim group is one of the world's 20 leading pharmaceutical companies. Headquartered in Ingelheim, Germany, it operates globally with 135 affiliates in 47 countries and almost 38,900 employees. Since it was founded in 1885, the family-owned company has been committed to researching, developing, manufacturing and marketing novel products of high therapeutic value for human and veterinary medicine. In 2007, Boehringer Ingelheim posted net sales of 10.9 billion euro while spending one fifth of net sales in its largest business segment Prescription Medicines on research and development. For more information please visit www.boehringer-ingelheim.co.uk.

Duloxetine for major depressive episodes is marketed by Lilly and Boehringer Ingelheim in all countries included in the partnership under the brand name Cymbalta, except for Greece, Italy and Spain. In Greece, Italy and Spain Lilly markets the product as Cymbalta and Boehringer Ingelheim markets the product as Xeristar(R). In the United States, Cymbalta is marketed by Lilly and Quintiles. In Japan, duloxetine will be co-developed and co-marketed by Lilly and Shionogi & Co., Ltd.

Duloxetine for stress urinary incontinence is marketed by Lilly under the brand name Yentreve.(R)

References
(1) Koponen, H., et al. Efficacy of Duloxetine for the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Implications for Primary Care Physicians. Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry 2007: 9(2):100-107

(2) Rynn M., et al. Efficacy and Safety of Duloxetine in the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Flexible-Dose, Progressive-Titration, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Depression and Anxiety 2007: 25(3): 182-189.

(3) Hartford, J., et al. Duloxetine as an SNRI Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Results from a Placebo- and Active-Controlled Trial. Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2007: 22(3):167-74.

(4) Nicolini H, et al. Improvement of psychic and somatic symptoms in adult patients with generalized anxiety disorder: Examination from a duloxetine, venlafaxine extended-release, and placebo-controlled study. In Press at Psychological Medicine.

(5) Endicott, J., et al. Duloxetine Treatment for Role Functioning Improvement in Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Three Independent Studies. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry 2007: 68(4):518-24

(6) Allgulander, C., et al. Pharmacotherapy of Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Results of Duloxetine Treatment from a Pooled Analysis of 3 Clinical Trials. Current Medical Research and Opinion 2007: 23(6): 1245-1252

(7) Davidson JRT, et al. Duloxetine treatment for relapse prevention in adults with generalized anxiety disorder: A 26- week randomized placebo-controlled study. Poster presented at the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology annual conference 2007. Boca Raton, Florida

(8) Lieb, R, et al. The epidemiology of generalised anxiety disorder in Europe. European Neuropsychopharmacology 2005 Aug;15(4):445-52.

(9) National Institute of Economic and Social Research. Summarized from the National Institute Economic Review,194, 28 October 2005.

(10) Calculated extrapolations of prevalence rates against the populations of a particular country or region, based upon prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder in the US, UK, Canada or Australia. Available at: http://www.cureresearch.com/g/generalized_anxiety_disorder/stats-country.htm. Accessed on 2.4.08

(11) Gliatto, M.F. Generalised Anxiety Disorder. American Family Physicians, Vol. 62/No. 7, October 1, 2000.

(12) National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Anxiety Disorders. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/anxiety-disorders/generalized-
anxiety-disorder-gad.shtml. Accessed on 2.5.08

(13) Bymaster, FP et al. The Dual Transporter Inhibitor Duloxetine: A Review of its Preclinical Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetic Profile, and Clinical Results in Depression. Current Pharmaceutical Design. 2005; 11: 1475-1493.

(14) Patient.co.uk. Generalized anxiety disorder. Available at http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/27000122/. Accessed on 2.5.08

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20031219/LLYLOGO )

SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company

CONTACT: Charles McAtee of Eli Lilly and Company,
+1-317-277-1566; or

Eva Freitag of Boehringer Ingelheim,
+ 49 (6132) 77-2964

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20031219/LLYLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Health/Medical: Avastin(R) Shows Unprecedented Benefits in Colorectal Cancer Patients

- Irrespective of K-Ras Gene Mutation

BASEL, June 26 (ANTARA/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) --

- For Non-US Media Only

- Avastin is the Only Biologic Proven to Extend Life in Patients With Normal K-Ras Gene

Data presented today at the 10th World Congress on Gastrointestinal Cancer (WCGC) in Barcelona confirm that Avastin (bevacizumab) significantly improves survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer regardless of whether they have mutation in a gene known as K-Ras. This outcome is important because other biologic combinations have been found to be ineffective in patients with a mutation in the K-Ras gene, which is found in up to half of patients with colorectal cancer.

Analyses of the randomized, controlled phase III AVF2107 study, showed Avastin-based treatment resulted in:

Unprecedented efficacy in patients with normal K-Ras gene (wild type)

- a 82% increase in the time patients live without their disease getting worse (7.4 vs 13.5 months) vs chemotherapy alone
- a 57% increase in overall survival (17.6 vs. 27.7 months) vs chemotherapy alone confirming that Avastin is the only biologic with proven survival benefit in this patient group
- a significant increase in response rate; 60% compared to 37% in patients receiving chemotherapy alone

Significantly enhanced efficacy in patients with K-Ras mutation

- a 69% increase in the time patients live without their disease getting worse (5.5 vs 9.4 months) vs chemotherapy alone

- these results show that Avastin-based therapy is the only biologic option with proven benefits for patients with K-Ras mutation

"These data demonstrate that the addition of Avastin to standard chemotherapy is active for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer with both K-ras wild type and mutant tumours," commented Dr. Herbert Hurwitz, Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, and principal investigator of AVF2107. "The high response rate, PFS, and OS in the K-Ras wild type group are impressive and confirm that Avastin should be part of the first line management of patients irrespective of K-Ras status. On a practical level, K-ras testing is not needed to initiate treatment with Avastin."

In January 2008, Avastin received a broad label in the EU allowing it to be used in combination with fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy for first and later treatment lines in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. This means that virtually all patients with metastatic colorectal cancer have access to Avastin's benefits.

About AVF2107

AVF2107 investigated the efficacy of Avastin in more than 800 previously untreated metastatic colorectal cancer patients. In the study Avastin was combined with a standard chemotherapy called irinotecan, fluorouracil and leucovorin (IFL).

The addition of Avastin to chemotherapy gave the most significant improvement in survival time ever observed in a trial of advanced colorectal cancer, significantly extending the duration of patient's life by 30%. The results of AVF2107 formed the basis of Avastin's first approval in February 2004 (USA) and January 2005 (EU).

In the AVF2107 analysis reported in Barcelona today, tumour tissue samples were collected in a prospective manner to analyze the efficacy of Avastin according to K-Ras status. Samples were available from 230 patients (about one third of all patients treated in the study).

About Avastin

Roche is pursuing a comprehensive clinical trial program investigating the use of Avastin in over 20 tumour types and different settings (advanced, post surgical). The total development program is expected to include over 40,000 patients world-wide and has already resulted in approvals in advanced colorectal, breast, lung, and kidney cancer.

- February 2004 (US) and January 2005 (EU) - first line treatment in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC)

- June 2006 (US) - second-line treatment in patients with metastatic CRC

- October 2006 (US) and August 2007 (EU) - first line treatment in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer

- March 2007 (EU) - first line treatment in patients with metastatic breast cancer (BC)

- April 2007 (Japan) - treatment in patients with recurrent or advanced CRC

- December 2007 (EU) - first line treatment in patients with advanced renal cell cancer

- January 2008 (EU) - first and later line treatment in patients with metastatic CRC in combination with any chemotherapy

- February 2008 (US) - first line treatment in patients with HER-2 negative metastatic BC

Additional information

To access video clips about Avastin in broadcast standard, free of charge, please go to: http://www.thenewsmarket.com.

SOURCE: Roche

Technology: New offerings via PTC System partnership with Glasshouse Technologies

Alliance in Asia meets growing demand for enterprise storage and data protection recovery

Singapore (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Enterprise storage specialist PTC System (PTC) will offer companies a more comprehensive data management solution through a new partnership with IT infrastructure consulting and services firm GlassHouse Technologies, Inc. (GlassHouse).

PTC's in-depth experience has been combined with GlassHouse's proven expertise to help Asian customers with their enterprise storage infrastructure and Data Protection
Recovery Management.

With increasing data growth, organizations are facing a more arduous task in managing storage-related issues, as the increasing dependency on both real-time and archived data, and regulatory demands are putting an immense pressure on corporate data infrastructures.

"Organizations need to manage information more effectively than ever before to handle the exponential growth in enterprise data volumes," says SS Lim, Managing Director of PTC System. "We see PTC playing a key role in providing the right solutions to meet our clients' most pressing challenges."

"GlassHouse is committed to helping enterprises gain greater visibility into their IT environments in order to reduce costs and manage risk," says Mark Shirman, President and CEO of GlassHouse.

"PTC is an ideal partner as we share the same vision of a simpler, streamlined data infrastructure that provides enhanced services to the business in an efficient and cost-effective manner."

GlassHouse has deep expertise in storage management and data protection and serves more than 800 companies in the financial services, insurance, retail, media, biotechnology pharmaceutical, telecommunications, government, legal, oil and gas, manufacturing, and technology industries.

As part of the partnership PTC will provide customers with consulting services for:
-- Mapping business strategy to infrastructure
-- Assessment services for data archiving
-- Storage management, disaster recovery and data protection initiatives; and
-- Design and implementation services.

About PTC System

PTC System is committed to offering solutions that enable enterprises to excel in data storage, network management, Grid Computing and content management. The solutions work seamlessly within existing infrastructures to simplify data management, and its services empower companies to achieve greater performance. For more information, please visit http://www.ptcsys.com.sg .

Media contact: Flame Communications Tel: +65-6259-3193 Fax:
+65-6259-0693
Florence Fang Email: florence@flamecomms.com
Samuel Chua Email: samuel@flamecomms.com
SOURCE: PTC System

Business in Asia Today - June 27, 200

TAIWAN TO DEREGULATE SECURITIES TRADING WITH CHINA, HONG KONG
Taipei (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Taiwan yesterday approved an initiative to deregulate securities investments between Taiwan and China, including opening Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) listings between the Taiwan and Hong Kong stock exchanges.
An ETF is an investment vehicle traded on primary exchanges but with the advantages of low transaction costs and a more diverse stock portfolio.
The decision will enable some of global funds, which contain Chinese capital but are managed by neutral, independent fund managers, to invest in Taiwan stocks.
The relaxed cross-strait securities investment initiative will also include opening ETFs trading between Taiwan and Hong Kong, allowing Hong Kong listed companies to list in Taiwan and permitting local securities investment companies to invest in China.

SOUTH KOREA RESUMES QUARANTINE INSPECTIONS OF U.S. BEEF
Seoul (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - South Korea restarted inspections of U.S. beef today in line with a new import agreement. Defying intense public concern over the safety of U.S. beef, Seoul implemented Thursday the April 18 deal and a protocol restricting imports to cattle 30 months old and less.
Seoul can check up to 3 per cent of all packages from the U.S., compared to 1 per cent of those from Australia.
"The examinations will be focused on determining if the contents of the boxes match the export labels and on making certain that the frozen beef has not spoiled during storage," said a NVRQS official.
The official said the April pact permits importation of all beef cuts from cattle under 30 months old including backbones, ribs and intestines, but any packages that have labeling discrepancies can be sent back or destroyed.

INDIA A BETTER FDI DESTINATION FOR MANUFACTURING THAN SERVICES: SURVEY
New Delhi (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Despite India's reputation as a services hub the nation has emerged as the world's fourth most attractive emerging market for manufacturing business foreign investment, for services it has just managed to enter a top-20 list released on Thursday by PriceWaterhouseCoopers.
In PWC's latest emerging markets rankings India has been ranked fourth, ahead of its BRIC peers China, Russia and Brazil, for the manufacturing business.
However, for services India has been ranked last at 20th position. In manufacturing, Egypt, Bulgaria and Serbia grabbed the top three spots.

CHINA TO REPLACE JAPAN AS ASIA-PAC'S LARGEST ONLINE SHOPPING MKT
Singapore (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - China will replace Japan as the largest online shopping market in the Asia-Pacific region in 2010, with 480 million online shoppers spending US$1.4 trillion, a MasterCard survey said on Thursday.
The survey found that online shopping growth in the region is expected to increase at an annual rate of 23.3 per cent by 2011 and this growth is likely to shift from Japan to new consumer populations in China and India.
"The rising population of upper-middle-income urban elites is likely to boost the online shopping markets in China and India significantly. Domestic consumption spending in the two countries is poised to pick up strongly, underpinned by a rapid pace of urbanization, robust economic expansion and rising spending power of urban elites," said MasterCard.
By 2010, China's online shopping population is projected to increase to 480 million and contribute to 58.6 per cent of the total online shopping population in the region compared to 49.9 per cent at present.

VIETNAM SLASHES THOUSANDS OF TARIFFS ON ASEAN IMPORTS UNTIL 2013
Hanoi (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Vietnam's Finance Ministry has released a list of thousands of imports from ASEAN countries to benefit from a cut in import duties over the next five years.
The move is part of Vietnam's commitment to implementing the Agreement on the Common Effective Preferential Tariff (CEPT) for ASEAN.
Thousands of goods imported from the regional group, including artworks, antiques, furniture, optical equipment, live animals and fruit and vegetables, will be taxed at rate of between zero and 5 per cent. Meanwhile, import taxes on some foodstuffs will be reduced from 30 to 5 per cent by 2013, including rice and eggs.
The duty on meat will drop from 40 per cent to 5 per cent by 2013. Vehicles, motors and accessories will also enjoy tariff cuts.

CHINA'S TOPRAY SOLAR TO INVEST US$436 MLNL IN PV INDUSTRIAL PARK
Guangzhoi (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Shenzhen Topray Solar Co., Ltd., recently reached an agreement with Leshan city government on investing no less than three billion yuan (US$436.98 million) in a photovoltaic (PV) industrial park in Leshan,in Sichuan Province.
Chen Wukui, chairman of the board, said that Leshan boasts advantages in technology and market with its products exporting to more than 50 countries. Topray Solar is a professional manufacturer of solar battery chips, solar batteries, solar lamps, solar chargers and solar power systems in China.

OIL PRICE SURGE SUCKS MLNS FROM CALTEX AUSTRALIA'S BOTTOM LINE
Melbourne (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Caltex Australia Ltd (ASX:CTX), has slashed its interim profit forecast by as much as 40 per cent as surging oil prices cut its refiner margins.
Caltex released the downgrade only hours after crude oil futures went to fresh records highs, just above US$140 a barrel, during overnight trading.
Caltex warned in its outlook that "small changes in key externalities" - the Australian dollar, refiner margins and crude oil prices - could materially affect profit.
Unlike other the big refiners operating in Australia, Caltex lacks any "upstream" business in oil and gas and, as a result, its balance sheet is fully exposed to the spiking oil price.
Caltex expects its net profit in the first six months of calendar 2008 at between A$175 million (US$167.17 million) and A$195 million, on a replacement cost of sales operating profit basis.
That result compares with the A$294 million the refiner booked in the first half of calendar 2007.

CHINA'S IRON ORE IMPORTS SURGE IN JAN.-APRIL AS PRICE HIKES LOOM
Beijng (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - China's iron ore imports surged during the first four months of this year as users sought to avoid anticipated higher costs, official figures show.
From January to April, China imported 150 million tonnes of iron ore, up 15.1 per cent year-on-year, Customs said Thursday. The arrivals were valued at US$19.87 billion, up 110 per cent year-on-year.
Importers expected new agreements with suppliers to mean higher prices.
They also expected higher export duties in major source countries, such as India, and rising shipping costs. Australia, India and Brazil remained the top three sources of China's iron ore imports, accounting for 83 per cent of the total.

AUSTRALIAN POLITICAL PARTIES BLOCK TREE TAX BREAK FOR POLLUTERS
Canberra (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - An unlikely alliance of Nationals and Greens politicians in Australia's federal parliament has moved to reverse a new tax measure that would see major polluters given deductions for planting trees.
The government says the tax break would encourage the establishment of carbon sink forests, making an important contribution to sequestration and delivering natural resource management benefits.
But senators yesterday attacked the plan amid concerns it would disadvantage the farming sector while giving tax advantages to big carbon emitting companies and encourage them to buy up prime agricultural land.
The Nationals won the support of the Senate to hold an inquiry into the tax measure. Nationals senator Barnaby Joyce said the measure would simply reward major polluters while hurting consumers who would face higher food prices because of the loss of prime agricultural land.

HONG KONG'S TOTAL EXPORT VALUE JUMPS 10.3 PCT IN MAY
Hong Kong (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - The value of Hong Kong's total exports of goods rose to 238.9 billion HK dollars (US$30.5 billion) in May, up 10.3 per cent over the same month last year, the Census and Statistics Department of Hong Kong said Thursday.
Of the total, the value of re-exports grew 11.3 per cent to 230.8 billion HK dollars while the value of domestic exports fell 12 per cent to 8.1 billion HK dollars. For this year's first five months as a whole, the value of total exports of goods rose 11.2 per cent over the same period last year, said the department.
The department said the vibrant Chinese mainland market and other emerging markets, as well as the solid expansion of the European market, have offset the decline in exports to the United States.

Source:
Business in Asia Today - JUNE 27, 2008
published by Asia Pulse


COPYRIGHT © 2008

Business: Solutia establishes Saflex Photovoltaic business

Serves rapidly growing market for thin-film solar panels; Photovoltaic will become third major market for Saflex

St. Louis (PRIME NEWSWIRE) - Solutia Inc. (NYSE: SOA) today announced the establishment of its Saflex(r) Photovoltaic business, which serves the rapidly growing market for thin-film solar panels.

"As energy demand and public policy drive the rapid adoption of renewable energy, the global market for thin-film solar panels is growing at a rate of 40% per year," said Jeffry N. Quinn, chairman, president and CEO of Solutia Inc. "Our Saflex business is the world's leading producer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer, which is emerging as the encapsulant of choice in the thin-film solar panel market. Within the next 7-10 years, our Saflex business expects to build photovoltaic into a third major market, which will be comparable in size to its traditional architectural and automotive markets."

Luc De Temmerman, senior vice president of Solutia Inc. and president of Saflex, added, "Two key factors position Saflex to be the leading encapsulant supplier to the thin-film solar panel market. The first is technology: our advanced third-generation chemistry and material science is effective and stable for use with coated glass and is proven to be durable in applications where the edges of the laminate are exposed to the elements. The second is capacity: no other interlayer provider is investing in new PVB capacity at the rate of Saflex."

These investments span sites in Belgium, China, Mexico and the United States, significantly increasing capacity for Saflex PVB interlayer (an encapsulant used in thin-film solar panels) as well as Butvar(r) PVB resin (the key raw material used to make Saflex PVB interlayer).

"While the world market for PVB is tight, we expect to sell an increasing amount of Saflex PVB interlayer to photovoltaiccustomers," said De Temmerman. "Importantly, we will continue to invest in PVB capacity and technology to meet the growing demands of our current and future customers across the architectural, automotive, and photovoltaic markets."

De Temmerman added, "Saflex is energized by this opportunity to become the world leader in a new and rapidly changing market. To do so we are assembling a high-powered team that will build on our current PVB and lamination expertise with top talent from the solar energy and materials industries. We will combine the talent, technology and capacity to deliver a rapid succession of product and process innovations to the fast-moving photovoltaic industry."

Photovoltaic technology, such as thin-film solar panels, converts sunlight into electricity. Many thin-film solar panels are used in large-scale solar farms, which route energy into a local or national electricity grid. Within a thin-film solar panel, the Saflex PVB interlayer is sealed between coated glass, where it protects the electronic components that are contained inside.

"Saflex is developing strong relationships with leading producers of solar module equipment, as well as with downstream manufacturers of thin-film solar panels," said Jay Pyper, global market development director, solar business, Saflex.
"These innovators recognize that PVB is becoming the industry's encapsulant of choice as a result of its performance characteristics and scalability. We look forward to growing this market through continued Saflex innovation in the coming years."

Saflex is known globally as the leader in PVB quality and reliability. With more than 80 years of experience, Saflex is the most trusted name in laminated glass technology. As a result, Saflex interlayers are used in nearly 50% of laminated glass for automotive and architectural applications, and are increasingly used in thin-film solar panels. For more information about Saflex visit: http://www.saflex.com

Notes to Editor: Saflex and Butvar are registered trademarks of Solutia Inc.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements, which can be identified by the use of words such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "intends," "plans," "estimates" or "anticipates," or other comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions. These statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions about the industries in which Solutia operates. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or achievements to be materially different from the future results or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those risk and uncertainties described in Solutia's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, including under "Cautionary Statement About Forward Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors", and Solutia's quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. These reports can be accessed through the "Investors" section of Solutia's website at www.solutia.com.
Solutia disclaims any intent or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements in response to new information, unforeseen events, changed circumstances or any other occurrence.

About Solutia Inc.

Solutia is a market-leading performance materials and specialty chemicals company. The company focuses on providing solutions for a better life through a range of products, including: Saflex(r) interlayer for laminated glass; CPFilms(r) aftermarket window films sold under the LLumar(r) brand and others; high-performance nylon polymers and fibers sold under brands such as Vydyne(r) and Wear-Dated(r); and technical specialties including the Flexsys(r) family of chemicals for the rubber industry, Skydrol(r) aviation hydraulic fluid and Therminol(r) heat transfer fluid. Solutia's businesses are world leaders in each of their market segments. With its headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, the company operates globally with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 60 locations. More information is available at www.Solutia.com
The Solutia Inc. logo is available at http://www.primenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=2620

-0- CONTACT: Solutia Inc.
Media:
Dan Jenkins
(314) 674-8552
Investors:
Susannah Livingston
(314) 674-8914

Sports: Columbia Sportswear Company names Tim Bartels VP of global footwear sales

Columbia Sportswear Company names Tim Bartels to VP of global footwear sales and promotes Mitch Fields to VP of Global apparel sales

Newly created positions to elevate the execution of Columbia's footwear and apparel sales globally

Portland, Ore. (PRIME NEWSWIRE) - Columbia Sportswear Company (Nasdaq:COLM), a global leader in the active outdoor apparel and footwear industries, today announced the appointment of Tim Bartels to vice president of global footwear sales and the promotion of Mitch Fields to vice president of global apparel sales.

Bartels, who most recently served as vice president of global sales for Keen, will be responsible for global footwear sales for the Columbia, Sorel and Montrail brands. He has more than 25 years of sales and industry experience, including sales leadership positions with Keen, Nike and DC Shoes, which was acquired by Quiksilver. Bartels will report to Mick McCormick, vice president of global sales.

"I am very excited to join the Columbia organization and their experienced leadership team, and I look forward to working with the team on implementing global selling strategies and developing specific footwear channel plans across the Columbia portfolio of brands," said Bartels. "The footwear category is a tremendous long-term opportunity for the company."

Fields, who joined Columbia Sportswear in 2006 as national sales manager of men's apparel, will now oversee global sales for men's, women's and youth apparel. Fields has focused his career on active apparel, footwear, and sports-related sales, including 17 years at Nike in multiple sales leadership roles.
Prior to joining Columbia Sportswear, he led sales efforts for Callaway Golf Footwear. In his new role, Fields will also report to Mick McCormick, vice president of global sales.

"I'm pleased to have the opportunity to expand upon the great work we've been doing domestically to grow our brand awareness and consumer loyalty and build upon this experience globally," said Fields. He continued, "I look forward to working with the international sales teams to make Columbia Sportswear the favorite brand for outdoor enthusiasts around the world."

"We are very pleased to welcome Tim Bartels to Columbia Sportswear and to recognize the contributions Mitch Fields has made to the company with this promotion," said Tim Boyle, President and CEO. "These two executives will play a key role in driving multi-brand sales of our industry leading outdoor apparel and footwear products."

About Columbia Sportswear Company:

Founded in 1938 in Portland, Oregon, Columbia Sportswear Company is a global leader in the design, sourcing, marketing and distribution of active outdoor apparel and footwear. As one of the largest outerwear manufacturers in the world and a leading seller of skiwear in the United States, the company has developed an international reputation for quality, performance, functionality and value. The company manages a portfolio of outdoor brands including Columbia Sportswear, Montrail, Mountain Hardwear, Pacific Trail, and Sorel. To learn more about Columbia, please visit the company's website at http://www.columbia.com/.

-0-
CONTACT: Columbia Sportswear Company
Columbia Sportswear PR
John Fread
(503) 985-4287
jfread@columbia.com
Leslie Constans
(503) 985-4183
lconstans@columbia.com

Business: Int`l recruiter Nicholas Neal launches Optimum, a premium co

Hong Kong, (ANTARA News/Xinhua-PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Optimum Hong Kong Limited, (Optimum), Hong Kong's only full-service recruitment company targeted exclusively at the financial and investment banking sectors launched today by its founder and managing director Nicholas Neal.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, Optimum's team of 10 consultants recruit the highest calibre executives for investment banks, and multinational corporations in Hong Kong, China and the Asia Pacific region.

Optimum brings a fresh and innovative approach to the recruitment market in the Asia Pacific, bridging the gap between client expectations and service delivery. This contemporary model will challenge the status quo and demonstrate a superior standard of service delivery and execution.

Neal adds: "We are not reliant on the web to source and generate the same population of candidates that other firms offer. Optimum has a targeted and structured approach in identifying the exact individuals for specific clients and employment opportunities, thereby acting as a real partner and adding value."

Later this year Optimum will expand its operations and open offices in Shanghai and Singapore. For more information, please visit http://www.optimumrecruit.com

About Optimum

Launched in 2008, Optimum is a recruitment company specialising in the banking and commerce finance sectors in Asia Pacific. The company delivers a fast, efficient and responsive service to client. Optimum provides management grade, permanent and contract recruitment for some of the world's leading financial institutions and blue chip multinationals.

The business is built on a quality and service model, sourcing and selecting the best candidates and consultants from the Asian region. This ensures the "optimum" outcome for all parties. http://www.optimumrecruit.com

For more information please contact Mary Covatta
Tel: +852-2525-7488 Mobile: +852-9318-0518
Email: mary@covattacommunications.com
Edward Leung Tel: +852-2525-7488
Email: edward@covattacommunications.com

SOURCE: Optimum Hong Kong Limited

Business: CMO Analyst Forum on marketing held in Tokyo

Tokyo (BUSINESS WIRE) - Forrester Research, an independent technology and market research company, and IDG Japan, world's leading technology media, will jointly produce "CMO Analyst Forum" in Tokyo, Japan.

CMO: Chief Marketing Officer Today, marketers face a tough reality: The classic "marketing funnel" is broken. Only 13 per cent of consumers say they buy products because of ads. And more than half of B2B marketers say they struggle to reach decision-makers at customer organizations. As the power of traditional marketing fades, companies must develop a new approach: engagement.

Fortunately, marketers have an expanded tool set for engaging customers ? from digital innovations that encourage user interaction to social media that turns customers into influencers.

At this event, Forrester analysts and a marketing professional at a leading Japanese company will present strategies and specific tactics for increasing engagement.
Whether you're looking for advice on marketing programs, organizational structures, customer-centered design, or measurement tool kits, CMO Analyst Forum will provide insights on how B2C and B2B marketers can get the most out of emerging marketing practices.

CMO Analyst Forum Sessions include:

1. "Engagement: A New Approach to Understanding Your Customers" - Brian Haven, Senior Analyst, Forrester Research

2. "An Equation to Generate Global Customers -- Global Media x Global Contents = Global Customers" - Kentaro Katsube, Director, Direct Retailing, Manager, Global New Media, - Global Research and Communication Design, Marketing, UNIQLO CO., LTD.

3. "Designing For Engagement" - Kerry Bodine, Principal Analyst, Forrester Research

4. "How Japanese Companies Can Engage With Their Customer Online" - Jonathan Browne, Senior Analyst, Forrester Research

--Only English to Japanese translation will be available --

OUTLINE
Title: - CMO Analyst Forum
Date: July 9 (Wed.), 2008 Hours: 1:30pm - 5:30pm
Venue: Aoyama Diamond Hall Target
Audience: Enterprise Marketing Leaders
Organized by: IDG Japan, Inc.
http://www.idg.co.jp
Program Partner: Forrester Research Japan, K.K.
http://www.forrester.com
Media Partner: DIAMOND Harvard Business Review (Japan)
http://www.dhbr.net/
Official News Wire: Business Wire Japan
http://www.businesswire.com/
Fee: 25,000 yen (including consumption tax)
URL: http://www.idg.co.jp/expo/cmo/

The original source-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the source-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.

IDG Japan, Inc.Meg Okamoto, +81-3-5800-4831 cmo01@idg.co.jp

Real Estate: Simsari announces participation at Cityscape Shanghai

Dubai, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Simsari.com, the Middle East's largest online marketplace specialised in real estate, has announced that it will for the first time participate at Cityscape Shanghai, scheduled to take place from 25 - 27 June 2008 at the new international expo centre in Shanghai, China.

Simsari.com is the largest and only online portal in the Middle East, dedicated to the real estate industry. Simsari.com showcases and markets members' properties to a world wide audience 24 hours a day throughout the year, providing buyers and sellers with a simple and expansive transactional interface through which to purchase and sell property online.

During the three day event, Simsari will present its online products and services including its secure online transaction system, sophisticated search and selection tools and its unique e-government payment gateway. In addition, Simsari will showcase a number of UAE and Chinese properties, available exclusively on Simsari.com

Marwan Lallas, Simsari's Managing Director said: "China is a strategic market for Simsari, and has tremendous investment potential. As one of the world's largest real estate exhibitions, Cityscape Shanghai provides an ideal platform for Simsari to raise awareness of the brand and to attract potential investors and members. We look forward to displaying Simsari's range of exclusive services and to profiling our business platform to the large and growing South Asian market".

Throughout the exhibition, visitors to the Simsari stand will be able to learn about a host of properties exclusive to the company, as well as find out more about Simsari's unique online offering. Some of the exclusive projects Simsari will be showcasing and selling throughout the exhibition include; Jade Residence in Dubai Silicon Oasis (developed by Deyaar), Royale Residence I & II in Dubai Sports City (developed by Bangash Properties), and Beach Towers in Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. Members registering throughout Cityscape Shanghai will be able to take advantage of Simsari's exclusive "Book Now" feature enabling them to directly purchase a host of exclusive properties by simply booking online.

Simsari.com provides buyers and sellers with a simple and expansive transactional interface through which to purchase and sell property online. Simsari is committed to offering members a regulated and transparent platform assessable to a world wide audience of interested buyers 24 hours a day, throughout the year.

For further information,
Simsari.com
E-mail: seif.eldick@simsari.com
Tel: +9714-3913777
Source: Simsari.com

Entertainment: DQ Entertainment in 5-yr partnership with MoonScoop Group

Hyderabad, and Paris, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - DQ Entertainment International (DQE), the AIM listed India based animation entertainment company, and MoonScoop Group, Europe's leading management and entertainment company engaged in the production, distribution, licensing, merchandising, marketing and distribution of animated creations, today announces that they have entered into a 5 year alliance.

The alliance will capitalise on the individual business networks and production expertise of both groups, and provide global operational leverage.

Key points
- Alliance between leading animation and entertainment companies in India and Europe
- To co -produce at least 5 TV series and 2 feature films costing $100m+
- To release 1 TV series or film every year until 2012
- Talks initiated on current joint project Casper's Scare School. Also worked together on The Fantastic Four
- The partnership will also focus on new media business development

In the new partnership, DQE and MoonScoop aim to co-produce at least five TV series and two feature films (animated and/or live action) for worldwide distribution, with estimated global costs of over $100 million. They expect to release at least one TV series or film each year of the agreement, which runs through 2012.

One or more of the co-productions may feature Indian mythology and characters which are becoming increasingly popular with audiences worldwide. Finally, the companies will also focus on new media business development, following in the footsteps of MoonScoop's successful launches of the kid-oriented VOD and Broadband channels Kabillion (in the US) and Taffy Kids (in Europe).

The new strategic partnership was initially discussed as MoonScoop and DQE began working together on the new animated TV series "Casper's Scare School," scheduled for 2009 and co-produced with Classic Media. The two companies also worked together successfully on "The Fantastic Four" animated series based on the famous superheroes from Marvel.

The MoonScoop Group's Mike Young Productions, based in the US and Wales also has a rich history with DQE, working together on the hit animated series "ToddWorld" and the upcoming "Twisted Whiskers," a co-production with American Greetings.

Tapaas Chakravarti Chairman & CEO of DQE Group said "This is an exciting strategic and functional partnership. There are compelling synergies in working together and we will jointly produce world class television productions and feature films, including those with Indian Mythology and stories. I am extremely pleased to extend our relationship with Moonscoop Group, one of the largest in this domain, to the next level of association."

"DQ Entertainment is one of the fastest-growing and most-respected animation studios in the world and this strategic agreement will allow each of us to nurture our upcoming projects to ensure their success in today's highly competitive marketplace," explains Christophe di Sabatino, co-Executive Chairman of The MoonScoop Group. "We look forward to working with them on a variety of projects."

About DQE: visit http://www.dqentertainment.com
About MoonScoop Group: visit http://www.moonscoop.com

Source: DQ Entertainment

Metal/Mining: Novelis Korea offers advanced aluminum sheet products

Seoul, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Novelis Korea Limited announced that it has successfully completed the installation of Novelis Fusion(TM) technology at its plant in Ulsan, South Korea, and has begun commercial production of multi-alloy aluminum sheet products.

This is Novelis' second application of its proprietary technology following the ground-breaking launch at its plant in Oswego, New York in 2006. This is also Novelis' second major investment in South Korea this year after the completion of a US$30 million expansion of its aluminum rolling mill in Yeongju last March.

Novelis Fusion(TM) is a unique solidification technology that produces aluminum sheet ingots with multiple layers of different alloys. These "multi-alloy" ingots are then rolled into premium sheet products with previously unattainable combinations of attributes such as high strength and superior surface quality.

Installing the technology in the Ulsan plant involved reconfiguring the existing ingot casting facility, known as the Universal Casting Shop. As its name implies, the casting shop has a flexible configuration which can be easily adapted to different casting technologies, making the conversion to Novelis Fusion(TM) rapid and cost-efficient. The casting facility is now producing both Netcast(TM) shape-cast products for automotive parts and Novelis Fusion(TM) ingots for sheet products.

The initial opportunity for Novelis Fusion(TM) sheet products in the Korean marketplace is to replace the conventional clad aluminum products used in heat exchanger applications. Novelis has already begun to supply brazing sheet to Korean customers that previously relied on imports, and the company expects to continue to increase its market share in the Asian market.

"With Novelis Fusion technology, we are now capable of offering a full range of high-quality brazing sheet and fin stock products for heat exchangers," said Bill Herr, Ulsan Plant Manager. "This will support our continued effort to deliver innovation for our customers."

"We are excited about the new opportunities that Novelis Fusion will open up for customers in Asia," added Jacquie Bartlett, Vice President Sales & Marketing. "Beyond the heat exchanger market, this new technology will add momentum to our initiatives to develop high-value products with our customers and to enter new markets."

Based on positive response from customers, the company is rolling out its Novelis Fusion(TM) technology worldwide. Projects are under way to also install the technology in Europe and South America, which will provide global coverage to all major markets. Customer interest is high in markets such as automotive, architecture and household appliances.

For more information on Novelis Fusion(TM) technology, please visit www.novelis.com/fusion .

About Novelis Korea

Novelis Korea Limited is a joint venture of Novelis Inc. (68%), Taihan Electric Wire Co. Ltd. (31%), and the Hyundai Group (1%). Novelis Korea employs more than 1,200 employees in the production of a broad range of high-end aluminum flat-rolled products. For more information on Novelis Korea Limited, visit www.novelis.co.kr

About Novelis Inc.

Novelis Inc. is the global leader in aluminum rolled products and aluminum can recycling. The company operates in 11 countries, employs approximately 12,700 people and reported revenue of $11.2 billion in its 2008 fiscal year. Novelis supplies premium aluminum sheet and foil products to automotive, transportation, packaging, construction, industrial and printing markets throughout North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Novelis is a subsidiary of Hindalco Industries Limited, Asia's largest integrated producer of aluminum and a leading copper producer. Hindalco is the flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group, a multinational conglomerate based in Mumbai, India.

For more information on Novelis, visit www.novelis.com .

Statements made in this news release which describe Novelis' intentions, expectations or predictions may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of securities laws. Examples of forward-looking statements in this news release include, among other things, Novelis' ability to develop new markets and create high-value products with the Novelis Fusion(TM) technology. Novelis cautions that, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty. We do not intend, and we disclaim any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Important risk factors which could impact the success of Novelis' recycling are included under the caption "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2008, filed with the SEC, and are specifically incorporated by reference into this news release.

SOURCE Novelis Inc.
CONTACT: Charles Belbin of Novelis Inc.,
+1-404-814-4260,
charles.belbin@novelis.com;
or
SooHyun Oh of Novelis Korea Limited,
+82 2 2259 1626,
soohyun.oh@novelis.com
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh20080626/CLTH061
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Web site: http://www.novelis.com
http://www.novelis.co.kr
http://www.novelis.com/fusion

Business: Webcast alert: earnings conference call

Kowloon, Hong Kong (BUSINESS WIRE) - Man Sang Holdings Inc. (MHJ) announces the following Webcast: What: Earnings Conference Call When: June 27, 2008 @ 10:00 AM Eastern Where: http://www.investorcalendar.com/ClientPage.asp?ID=131273 How: Live over the Internet -- Simply log on to the web at the address above.

Contact: Patricia Baranowski, (212)400-2604, pbaronowski@altmangroup.com If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be available for replay at http://www.investorcalendar.com/ClientPage.asp?ID=131273 or http://www.investorcalendar.com/ Man Sang International Limited (the "Company") together with its subsidiaries (the "Group"), is the first company engaged in the pearl business that is listed in Hong Kong. As one of the leading pearl merchants in Hong Kong, the Group is also one of the largest processors and suppliers of Chinese cultured pearls in the world.

The Group was founded in the early 1980's. It is principally engaged in the purchasing, processing, assembling, merchandising and wholesale distribution of pearls and pearl jewelry products, which include Chinese cultured pearls, Chinese freshwater pearls, Japanese cultured pearls, Tahitian pearls and South Sea pearls. The products of the Group are principally sold to jewelry manufacturers, wholesale jewelry distributors and mass jewelry merchandisers throughout the world.

The Group operates its own pearl processing facilities in Man Sang Industrial City located in Shenzhen, China.
Altogether, there are 24 blocks of buildings in the industrial city with a gross floor area of approximately 550,000 square feet, the Group at present utilizes most of the units in 5 blocks while the rest are leased to third parties.

The Group is also engaged in e-commerce, which the Group believes can help it achieve a higher operational efficiency in the long run by optimizing costs and reaching out for unlimited new customers.

For Man Sang Holdings Inc.Patricia Baranowski, 212-400-2604;pbaronowski@altmangroup.com