Over 500 Leaders from Across More Than 50 Countries and Territories Attend 56th Annual World Trade Centers Association Global Business Forum in Philadelphia

 

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center (WTC) locations across nearly 100 countries and territories — and World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP) successfully concluded the 56th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF), held April 19-22, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The four-day event marked the Forum’s return to the United States after nearly a decade, convening over 500 attendees representing 116 WTC businesses across 53 countries and territories, including over 200 business delegates, both in person and virtually. Participants included leaders from business, government, academia and international organizations, all attending with the purpose of advancing global trade, investment and collaboration.

Attendees participated in panels, workshops, site visits and networking sessions, with B2B meetings facilitated through the B2Match platform connecting participants with potential partners, investors and distributors. The programming focused on driving practical business outcomes and cross-border connections.

Under the theme “Historic Foundations, Future Collaborations: Cultivating New Business Frontiers,” the Forum addressed practical avenues to build meaningful global partnership in the context of current global economic conditions. Programming featured keynote addresses from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker; who highlighted Philadelphia’s economic momentum, global connectivity and growing reputation as a city open for international business and investment; Ambassador Xie Feng of the People’s Republic of China, who reinforced the role of trade and dialogue in supporting long-term economic growth and global cooperation; and Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Cohen who discussed the current state of global trade and the importance of connection; along with a discussion on how culture drives long-term economic strength with NBA Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Pennsylvania State Representative Jordan Harris, and WTCGP President and CEO Thomas Young. During the conversation, Dr. J reflected on how the discipline, resilience and pursuit of excellence found in sports can translate into business leadership, innovation and community impact. Additional sessions covered trade dynamics, investment trends and cross-sector collaboration.

Recent shifts in the global trade landscape, marked by policy changes and uneven market conditions, framed much of the discussion at this year’s Forum. Programming brought companies, investors and trade organizations into the same room to assess experiences, risks and deal opportunities. Conversations centered on practical solutions for access, timing and scalable execution. Across sessions, participants pointed to WTCA’s role as a consistent convening platform where commercial relationships are advanced even as conditions remain unpredictable.

“In today’s climate, meeting in person is essential for fostering authentic connections, and the annual WTCA Global Business Forum opens the conversation to shed light on the reality of the current trade environment — where uncertainty, shifting policies and economic pressures are reshaping how business gets done across borders,” said John E. Drew, Chair of the WTCA Board of Directors. “Through this Forum, the global WTCA network provides a trusted platform for leaders to exchange perspectives, build relationships and move forward with the clarity and confidence they need as they continue advancing their regional economies. This year, we reinforced that global connection and engagement is critical in driving reliable trade, investment and long-term economic growth even in challenging times.”

Philadelphia served as a strong backdrop for this year’s Forum, showcasing its economic strengths across food and agriculture, higher education, life sciences, manufacturing, and innovation and technology. Its strategic location along the Northeast Corridor and established global connections reinforced its vital role as a hub for international business and trade.

“It meant a lot to host the WTCA network here in Philadelphia, especially as the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary,” said Thomas Young, President and CEO of WTCGP. “There’s a strong sense of history here, but also real momentum. Throughout the Forum, we saw people making connections that go beyond introductions — the kind that lead to business, partnerships and long-term growth. That was happening in B2B meetings, in sessions and in conversations across the city, and it’s exactly what this network is built to support — bringing people together in ways that translate into real economic opportunity.”

Additionally, the WTCA Real Estate Summit returned for its second year, examining global capital flows, investment strategy and development trends, with a macro view on the state of commercial real estate and Philadelphia’s positioning as a competitive investment market. The Forum also marked the launch of the UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026, an international open innovation initiative seeking scalable solutions across sectors including blue renewable energy, sustainable food systems, green maritime transport, coastal tourism, ecosystem restoration and blue tech. The initiative introduced a growing area of focus for WTCA and underscored the increasing connection between environmental sustainability, economic opportunity and global business collaboration. Companies, startups and research institutions are invited to apply by June 19, 2026.

Building on the momentum of this year’s Forum, WTCA will continue to support its global network through ongoing programming and partnerships that strengthen international business ties and expand opportunities for members worldwide. The 57th annual WTCA GBF will take place April 4-7, 2027, hosted by World Trade Center Binh Duong New City (WTC BDNC) in Binh Duong New City, Vietnam. Next year’s Forum will underscore Vietnam’s continued rise as a hub for innovation, industry and international connectivity.

About World Trade Centers Association

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries and territories. As the owner of the "World Trade Center" and "WTC" trademarks, WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for members to use in conjunction with their independently owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its members, the goal of WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe, creating an ecosystem built around commerce, community and connection. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.

Alsons Delivers 15% Q1 Net Income Growth

 

Alsons Consolidated Resources Inc., the listed company of the Alcantara Group, delivered strong financial results in the first quarter of 2026, posting a 15% increase in net income to Php543 million from Php472 million in the same period last year, despite heightened volatility in the global business environment.

Alsons Consolidated Resources Inc., the listed company of the Alcantara Group, delivered strong financial results in the first quarter of 2026, posting a 15% increase in net income to Php543 million from Php472 million in the same period last year, despite heightened volatility in the global business environment.

Net income attributable to the parent company surged by 64% to Php223 million, up from Php137 million in the same period in 2025. Meanwhile, consolidated revenues grew by 12% to Php3.36 billion from Php2.99 billion, driven by the strong demand for electricity in Mindanao.

“The current geo-political tensions have caused major economic shifts not only for the Philippines, but in other economies around the world. Yet amid this evolving landscape, our commitment to powering communities with care remains steadfast,” said Roberto P. Ramos, Chief Finance Officer.

Sarangani Energy Corporation remains the primary driver of revenue and earnings for Alsons. Other key contributors to the company’s strong financial performance include its Retail Electricity Supply unit, which currently supplies 118 MW to customers, as well as its improved participation in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

“Despite the challenging global environment and the shifting market conditions, we remain focused on reliable operations, disciplined execution, and prudent cost management to ensure that we continue delivering value to our customers and stakeholders,” he added.

Alsons’ strong growth reflects the financial strength and stability of the Alcantara Group amid economic uncertainties. The company is also making significant progress on its two large-scale solar projects in Mindanao, further strengthening its power portfolio and expanding its renewable energy capacity.

Moonleaf x LIME: Turning Summer Drinks into Art

  

 Moonleaf partners with LIME for a summer collaboration that reimagines the Summer Palette Series as visual art inspired by nature, movement, and intricate patterns. The series features Passion Fruit, Strawberry, and Lychee fruit teas made with stevia and chia seeds for a lighter, more refreshing take on summer.

Moonleaf is opening a new creative collaboration this season with LIME, an illustrator based in Naga City known for detailed, nature-inspired illustrations and intricate pattern work.

The collaboration brings together Moonleaf’s Summer Palette Series and LIME’s artistic perspective, exploring how everyday drink moments can be reimagined through an artist’s lens. It’s a meeting point of flavor and visual storytelling, where simple summer drinks become inspiration for art.

The Summer Palette Series features three fruit tea drinks: Passion Fruit, Strawberry, and Lychee, all made with stevia and chia seeds for a lighter and more refreshing take on summer.

Each flavor becomes a starting point for LIME’s work. Through his signature style, which draws from nature, movement, and intricate patterns, he transforms the drinks into visual compositions that reflect mood, texture, and good vibes.

“Since the drinks have their own fruit and flavor, each of them had its own character,” LIME shares. “From there comes the visual translation. I wanted to make the forms and patterns feel like summer that is why visually, it's vibrant and alive.”His work brings together organic elements and detailed structures, shaping a visual interpretation of the Summer Palette Series that feels fluid and expressive.

Moonleaf has always been part of creative communities, from its Maginhawa Street tambayan days where students, artists, and friends would gather over milk tea, up to today where it continues to naturally exist in everyday routines, conversations, and small creative moments. Which is why collaborations like this feel like a natural next step, where everyday moments are simply seen through a more creative lens.

To extend the experience beyond the artwork, Moonleaf is offering a special in-store promo. Purchase any three drinks from the Summer Palette Series and receive a limited-edition foldable fan featuring LIME’s artwork. The fan serves as both a functional summer item and a collectible piece that brings the collaboration into everyday use.

Try Moonleaf’s Summer Palette Series and experience the collaboration with LIME, where each drink comes to life through color, detail, and perspective. Available for a limited time in stores, along with artist-designed fans you can take home.

About Moonleaf Tea Shop

Moonleaf Tea Shop, established in 2010, has become a favorite Filipino destination for premium handcrafted milk tea. With nearly 80 branches nationwide, it’s the go-to spot for tea lovers and students alike, offering a wide variety of delicious drinks made with care and quality.

DISG A Japan-ASEAN Economic Cooperation Platform Launched During the COVID-19 Pandemic Masuo Kuremura, Former Executive Secretary to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Appointed Chairman

In September 2025, Masuo Kuremura, formerly Executive Secretary to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, was appointed Chairman of the “Dialogue for Innovative and Sustainable Growth (DISG),” a platform dedicated to advancing practical economic cooperation between ASEAN and Japan.

In the same month, the Government of Japan introduced a new policy framework for cooperation with ASEAN, clearly defining a “Co-Creation” approach built on four pillars:

1.      Supply Chain Resilience,

2.      Digital Investment,

3.      Promoting Innovation, and

4.      AZEC(Asia Zero Emission Community) / Transition.

With the participation of 13 economic organizations across ASEAN, DISG will play a central role in accelerating the development and execution of concrete public-private partnership projects aligned with these four pillars.

*What is DISG?

DISG is a platform for dialogue, established following the Japan-ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting in 2020, aimed at advancing Japan-ASEAN economic cooperation from “concept” to “execution” under a shared co-creation vision.

In response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, ASEAN and Japan recognized the need for deeper collaboration, leading to the launch of DISG.

Focusing on priority areas such as digital transformation, green initiatives, and industrial development, DISG showcases the latest Japan-ASEAN cooperation projects, while convening experts from the private, academic, and public sectors to generate actionable new partnership opportunities.

DISG also collaborates closely with 13 economic organizations, including the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), channeling real-world business challenges and project proposals into policy recommendations submitted to the Japan-ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting (AEM-METI).

This integrated public-private PDCA cycle linking policy and business in a continuous loop and enabling rapid, high-impact execution is a defining feature of DISG.

*Background: Japan’s “Co-Creation” Approach with ASEAN

In the 1970s and 1980s, Japan primarily viewed ASEAN as a manufacturing base, supporting industrial development through production.

Today, ASEAN has evolved into a dynamic growth market, where addressing social challenges such as ESG and the SDGs generates globally shared value.

The era of one-way support has passed. We are now entering a new phase in which Japan’s technological strengths and ASEAN’s growth potential and market scale are combined to co-create value.

Against this backdrop, the Government of Japan has repositioned its relationship with ASEAN as one of “Co-Creation.”

*Four Key Directions for Future Cooperation

1. Strengthening Supply Chains (Establishing resilient and self-reliant manufacturing bases)

Amid ongoing U.S.-China economic tensions and tariff negotiations, traditional approaches, such as rerouting low-cost exports through ASEAN, are becoming less effective.

For ASEAN economies, upgrading domestic industries is now a critical priority. From an economic security perspective, building self-reliant supply chains has become an urgent imperative.

Strengthening manufacturing capabilities, from upstream processes such as rare earths and rare metals to final-stage production, is essential. However, achieving this independently remains difficult.

Along with like-minded partners, Japan will support ASEAN in building truly autonomous supply chains through collaboration and shared resources.

2. Digital Investment

Large-scale investments by hyper-scalers (major data center operators) are expanding across ASEAN. At the same time, there is a growing recognition that smaller, locally-optimized large language models (LLMs) may better meet regional demand and societal needs.

Reliance on computing resources concentrated in a small number of major powers presents risks from an economic security standpoint.

Japan’s strength lies in its comprehensive ecosystem, from AI application developers to companies capable of building LLMs, as well as foundational semiconductor technologies. This positions ASEAN countries to partner with Japan in developing independent computing capabilities as a credible alternative.

3. Promoting Innovation

DISG was designed to bring private-sector dynamism directly into the policymaking process.

A flagship initiative is the “Fast Track Pitch,” an open innovation platform where leading Japanese corporations, startups, and ASEAN companies collaborate to develop solutions to region-specific social challenges.

This approach is already delivering tangible results, including Japanese companies addressing expansion challenges in ASEAN through partnerships with local startups.

In FY2025, events were held in Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

4. AZEC / Transition

A rapid, European-style green transition cannot be applied to Asia without adaptation.

In ASEAN, where economic growth continues, maintaining a stable energy supply to support daily life and economic activity remains essential. Balancing carbon neutrality with energy security is therefore a central challenge.

A pragmatic approach is required. One that combines Japan’s strengths in advanced technologies such as hydrogen and ammonia with gas-fired power generation and energy efficiency solutions to reduce overall energy demand.

Japan will contribute tailored energy transition solutions that reflect ASEAN’s specific circumstances.

--Comment from DISG Chairman Masuo--

Masuo Kuremura Chairman, DISG (Japan-ASEAN Economic and Industrial Cooperation Committee), METI/Executive Director, JETRO Singapore

Born in 1976. Graduated from the Faculty of Law, University of Tokyo.

Joined METI in 2002. Held key roles including Executive Secretary to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Director of the Industrial Finance Division, and Director of the Aerospace, Defense and Space Industries Division.

Currently serves as Executive Director of JETRO Singapore. Since July 2025, he has taken on his current role, overseeing ASEAN and the broader APAC region from Singapore and leading new Japan-ASEAN public-private economic cooperation initiatives.

“While ‘country-first’ policies are gaining momentum globally, Japan has long developed alongside the international community through a rules-based free economic system and frameworks such as CPTPP and RCEP.

For ASEAN to sustain its growth, it is essential to uphold these frameworks for free trade and investment, and Japan will continue to actively support and promote them.

Japan’s strength lies in its reliability-delivering on its commitments-and in providing high-quality solutions that create lasting value for partner countries. Rather than focusing on short-term costs, partnering with Japan offers significant long-term benefits in addressing social challenges and enhancing productivity.

Addressing local challenges through Japan-ASEAN cooperation ultimately contributes to solving global challenges. It is not only large corporations, but also startups with new technologies and innovations, that will shape the future.

By integrating the startup ecosystems of Japan and ASEAN, we can build a new model of capitalism-one that balances economic growth with the resolution of social challenges, rather than relying solely on large-scale financial incentives.

I hope that young people will bring their ideas and technologies to this effort and help create a new model that can lead the world.”

To date, DISG has primarily operated online. Going forward, it will incorporate in-person engagement to further accelerate the development and implementation of concrete public-private projects.

From dialogue to action, from vision to execution- DISG will take the Japan-ASEAN partnership to the next level.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES