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SINGAPORE, Oct. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Plug and Play APAC has partnered with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) to support the international expansion of nine innovative Italian startups in the FinTech sector. As part of ITA's Global Startup Program (GSUP), the cohort will embark on a four-week immersion trip to Singapore from October 21 to November 14, 2025.
The program's objective is to enable access to the Singaporean and Southeast Asian markets, enabling Italian startups to build strategic partnerships, strengthen organizational and technical capabilities, and position themselves for global growth. During their time in Singapore, the startups aim to validate their solutions in the Southeast Asian market, assess product-market fit, explore commercialization pathways, and establish conversations with corporates and investors.
Commenting on the launch of the fourth edition of the Global Startup Program in Singapore, Giorgio Calveri, Trade Commissioner of the Italian Trade Agency in Singapore, said:
"The Global Startup Program has become a key platform for showcasing Italian innovation, empowering our most promising entrepreneurs to compete and grow on the global stage. With the program being held in Singapore for the fourth time, we are proud to further strengthen Italy's presence in major international hubs like Singapore, where FinTech plays a crucial role in shaping the future of business. By uniting our startups, global partners, and participation in the Singapore FinTech Festival through the Italian Pavilion, we are creating a bridge of opportunities that will enable Italian innovation to flourish worldwide."
Plug and Play, a Silicon Valley-based global open innovation platform, has an established presence in Asia Pacific through its regional headquarters in Singapore. From this hub, Plug and Play connects corporates, startups, and venture capitalists within its vast ecosystem, driving cross-border collaboration and accelerating innovation across verticals.
A key highlight of this partnership will be the Italian Trade Agency Demo Day, held as part of the Plug and Play APAC Summit on 28 October 2025. The 9 startups will pitch their solutions to a global audience of corporates, investors, and ecosystem leaders. (https://www.plugandplayapac.com/apac-summit) They will also attend Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH) and the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF).
"We're proud to partner with the Italian Trade Agency to support Italian startups as they tap into the opportunities in Southeast Asia's rapidly growing tech markets. Through this program, we'll connect these innovators with our extensive network of corporates and investors, and our APAC Summit is the perfect stage to showcase their solutions. We look forward to strengthening cross-border innovation between Italy and Southeast Asia," said Jupe Tan, Managing Partner, Plug and Play APAC.
The partnership underscores ITA and Plug and Play's mutual commitment to bridging ecosystems, driving innovation, and creating opportunities for startups to scale beyond their local markets.
About Plug and Play
Plug and Play is the leading innovation platform, connecting startups, corporations, venture capital firms, universities, and government agencies. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, we're present in 60+ locations across five continents. We offer corporate innovation programs and help our corporate partners in every stage of their innovation journey, from education to execution. We also organize startup acceleration programs and have built an in-house VC to drive innovation across multiple industries, where we've invested in hundreds of successful companies, including Dropbox, Guardant Health, Honey, Lending Club, N26, PayPal, and Rappi.
Our Asia Pacific headquarters was launched in Singapore in 2010, and we are now present in five cities in Southeast Asia with additional locations in China, Japan, Korea and India. We work closely with both the public and private sectors with programs, innovation initiatives, and startup investments across the region.
For more information, visit https://www.plugandplayapac.com
About Italian Trade Agency (ITA)
The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) is the governmental agency responsible for supporting the international expansion of Italian companies and promoting foreign investment into Italy. ITA plays a key role in enhancing the competitiveness of Italian businesses and facilitating their presence in global markets.
With a motivated and modern organization and a widespread network of overseas offices, ITA provides information, assistance, consulting, promotion, and training to Italian small and medium-sized businesses. Using the most modern multi-channel promotion and communication tools, it acts to assert the excellence of Made in Italy in the world.
The network. Through its headquarters in Rome, an office in Milan, and a global network of 69 offices and 18 local branches in 74 countries, linked to Italian embassies and consulates, the Italian Trade Agency provides information, assistance, promotion, training, and cooperation in the industrial, consumer goods and services sectors. The Italian Trade Agency collaborates with Italian Regions, Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Trade Associations and other public and private organisations.
For more information, visit https://www.ice.it/en/
Media Contact
press@pnptc.com
SINGAPORE, Oct. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Plug and Play APAC has partnered with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) to support the international expansion of nine innovative Italian startups in the FinTech sector. As part of ITA's Global Startup Program (GSUP), the cohort will embark on a four-week immersion trip to Singapore from October 21 to November 14, 2025.
The program's objective is to enable access to the Singaporean and Southeast Asian markets, enabling Italian startups to build strategic partnerships, strengthen organizational and technical capabilities, and position themselves for global growth. During their time in Singapore, the startups aim to validate their solutions in the Southeast Asian market, assess product-market fit, explore commercialization pathways, and establish conversations with corporates and investors.
Commenting on the launch of the fourth edition of the Global Startup Program in Singapore, Giorgio Calveri, Trade Commissioner of the Italian Trade Agency in Singapore, said:
"The Global Startup Program has become a key platform for showcasing Italian innovation, empowering our most promising entrepreneurs to compete and grow on the global stage. With the program being held in Singapore for the fourth time, we are proud to further strengthen Italy's presence in major international hubs like Singapore, where FinTech plays a crucial role in shaping the future of business. By uniting our startups, global partners, and participation in the Singapore FinTech Festival through the Italian Pavilion, we are creating a bridge of opportunities that will enable Italian innovation to flourish worldwide."
Plug and Play, a Silicon Valley-based global open innovation platform, has an established presence in Asia Pacific through its regional headquarters in Singapore. From this hub, Plug and Play connects corporates, startups, and venture capitalists within its vast ecosystem, driving cross-border collaboration and accelerating innovation across verticals.
A key highlight of this partnership will be the Italian Trade Agency Demo Day, held as part of the Plug and Play APAC Summit on 28 October 2025. The 9 startups will pitch their solutions to a global audience of corporates, investors, and ecosystem leaders. (https://www.plugandplayapac.com/apac-summit) They will also attend Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH) and the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF).
"We're proud to partner with the Italian Trade Agency to support Italian startups as they tap into the opportunities in Southeast Asia's rapidly growing tech markets. Through this program, we'll connect these innovators with our extensive network of corporates and investors, and our APAC Summit is the perfect stage to showcase their solutions. We look forward to strengthening cross-border innovation between Italy and Southeast Asia," said Jupe Tan, Managing Partner, Plug and Play APAC.
The partnership underscores ITA and Plug and Play's mutual commitment to bridging ecosystems, driving innovation, and creating opportunities for startups to scale beyond their local markets.
About Plug and Play
Plug and Play is the leading innovation platform, connecting startups, corporations, venture capital firms, universities, and government agencies. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, we're present in 60+ locations across five continents. We offer corporate innovation programs and help our corporate partners in every stage of their innovation journey, from education to execution. We also organize startup acceleration programs and have built an in-house VC to drive innovation across multiple industries, where we've invested in hundreds of successful companies, including Dropbox, Guardant Health, Honey, Lending Club, N26, PayPal, and Rappi.
Our Asia Pacific headquarters was launched in Singapore in 2010, and we are now present in five cities in Southeast Asia with additional locations in China, Japan, Korea and India. We work closely with both the public and private sectors with programs, innovation initiatives, and startup investments across the region.
For more information, visit https://www.plugandplayapac.com
About Italian Trade Agency (ITA)
The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) is the governmental agency responsible for supporting the international expansion of Italian companies and promoting foreign investment into Italy. ITA plays a key role in enhancing the competitiveness of Italian businesses and facilitating their presence in global markets.
With a motivated and modern organization and a widespread network of overseas offices, ITA provides information, assistance, consulting, promotion, and training to Italian small and medium-sized businesses. Using the most modern multi-channel promotion and communication tools, it acts to assert the excellence of Made in Italy in the world.
The network. Through its headquarters in Rome, an office in Milan, and a global network of 69 offices and 18 local branches in 74 countries, linked to Italian embassies and consulates, the Italian Trade Agency provides information, assistance, promotion, training, and cooperation in the industrial, consumer goods and services sectors. The Italian Trade Agency collaborates with Italian Regions, Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Trade Associations and other public and private organisations.
For more information, visit https://www.ice.it/en/
Media Contact
press@pnptc.com
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Italian Trade Agency Partners with Plug and Play APAC to Support Italian Startups Expansion into Southeast Asia
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All On-site Profits Donated to Fund Tai Po Fire Recovery Efforts
HONG KONG, Jan. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Tam Jai International Co. Limited ("TJI") has concluded its debut as the official partner of Clockenflap 2025, uniting its three renowned rice noodle brands – TamJai Yunnan Mixian, TamJai SamGor Mixian and the international brand TamJai Mixian – for the first time. The collaboration brought the "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" spirit to the Central Harbourfront. In light of the recent tragedy in Tai Po, TJI remained guided by its genuine "Passion to Serve", pledging all on-site profits from the festival to the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals to fund recovery efforts and support for residents in need.
Throughout the weekend, the trio brands welcomed music fans on a culinary journey that embodied the brands' dedication to the city. The activation served as a global stage to showcase TamJai and SamGor's Hong Kong-born legacy while demonstrating how TamJai Mixian unifies the best of both brands for international expansion.
- "Made in Hong Kong" was highlighted to celebrate bold flavours, distinctive style and a lively dining vibe, all originated in Hong Kong and brought to life through Tam Jai's craftsmanship, signature soups and the iconic 10 spice levels honed over the years.
- "Made to Move" symbolised the relentless drive to innovate, expand into new markets and champion noodle culture on the global stage, sharing the unique "Tam Jai Taste" with the world.
Music fans immersed themselves in rhythm and delight to taste buds at the "TamJai Avenue", a dedicated zone decked in signature TamJai green and SamGor red to create a space that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Every corner was infused with the identities of the three brands, allowing visitors to explore installations that blended rice noodle heritage with Hong Kong culture.
Mr Daren Lau, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TJI, reflected on the event, "'Bringing the unique Tam Jai Taste to the world' has never been merely a statement, but a commitment and vision that we have built step by step throughout the years. From our deep origins in this vibrant city, we have cultivated three iconic brands – 'TamJai Yunnan Mixian', 'TamJai SamGor Mixian' and 'TamJai Mixian'. Their debut on a united front at Clockenflap symbolises an important step in our journey to present Hong Kong's spirit on a global stage, sharing our beloved 'Tam Jai Taste' with music enthusiasts across the globe."
"Music has the power to connect, heal and uplift, especially in challenging times. With deep love for the families affected by the tragic Tai Po fire, TJI donates all profits from Clockenflap 2025 to support the emergency needs and recovery efforts of the community. This reflects our 'Passion to Serve' brand DNA, bringing warmth, care and hope to the communities we proudly call home."
A Culinary Recap: The Taste of Hong Kong
Festival-goers gathered at "The Taste of Hong Kong" dining area to experience an East-meets-West menu created exclusively for the event.
While fans enjoyed reimagined classics like the Mini Mixian with Pork Belly in Mala Soup, the standout items of the weekend included the innovative "Minced Pork and Homemade Pickle" series. The Minced Pork and Homemade Pickles Mini Burger and the fusion-style Avocado in Garlic and Chilli Sauce were among the most popular choices, demonstrating how authentic mixian ingredients can be transformed into shareable festival snacks.
Local Craftsmanship: Spiced Mixology
The "Spiced Mixology" Bar, a partnership with local craft distiller Perfume Trees Gin, offered cocktails that captured the essence of Hong Kong. With unique and distinctive flavours, both drinks sold out quickly on each event day and became one of the most sought-after highlights of the music festival.
- Spicy Banger (Left): A crisp gin base sharpened by SamGor's signature spice, lychee and lemongrass, finished with a facing heaven chilli.
- Gin'ger (Right): A refreshing mix of TamJai's soup essence, whiskey and gin, balanced with warming ginger and a crisp cucumber garnish.
Interactive Highlights: Engaging with the Brand
Beyond the culinary offerings, "TamJai Avenue" provided immersive cultural experiences. The "Make Your Own Bowl" workshop saw hundreds of fans creating customised phone straps featuring ingredient-shaped charms. Meanwhile, the "Spicy Soup Master" activation invited participants to roll a giant dice, with those braving the "Extremely Spicy" level receiving exclusive memorabilia. The "Bring TamJai Home" collection, featuring "Tastebud Troopers" plush toys and "Spicy Monster Gang" figurines, also proved to be a popular memento of the festival.
Looking Ahead: A Milestone Year in 2026
Following the conclusion of Clockenflap, TJI is looking towards a significant year ahead. 2026 marks the 30th Anniversary of TamJai Yunnan Mixian, a milestone celebrating three decades of serving Hong Kong. Furthermore, TamJai SamGor Mixian is preparing to take its unique flavours to new heights. Fans can look forward to a new store situated where the city connects with the world, offering one last taste of home before your next adventure. For those always on the move, you can savour the authentic taste of Tam Jai across Mainland China, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan.
About Us
Tam Jai International Co. Limited is one of the leading restaurant groups in Hong Kong, rapidly expanding its network to over 240 stores across various markets, including Mainland China, Singapore, Japan, Australia and Malaysia, with plans to enter the Philippines. Apart from self-operating restaurants, the Group also adopts alternative models such as joint venture, franchise or strategic partnership for overseas markets. The Group's portfolio of distinguished brands includes TamJai Yunnan Mixian, TamJai SamGor Mixian, and international brand TamJai Mixian, as well as Japanese dining brands, Marugame Seimen and Yakiniku Yamagyu, through franchise and licensing in Hong Kong.
With highly standardised operations, an innovative spirit and an efficient management model, TJI is committed to providing customers with a quality yet affordable dining experience while ambitiously expanding its footprints across the globe.
TamJai Yunnan Mixian brand is a fast casual restaurant chain in Hong Kong with operations in Mainland China. Our brand has over 30 years of history and the first restaurant under the TamJai Yunnan Mixian brand in Hong Kong was opened in 1996. In 2021, we opened our first restaurant under our brand in Mainland China.
TamJai SamGor Mixian brand is a fast casual restaurant chain in Hong Kong with operations in Singapore. Our brand has over 17 years of history and the first restaurant under the TamJai SamGor Mixian brand in Hong Kong was opened in 2008. In 2020 and 2022, we opened our first restaurant under our brand in Singapore and Japan respectively.
TamJai Mixian represents our international brand, capturing the essence of our flagship brands "TamJai Yunnan Mixian" and "TamJai SamGor Mixian" in Hong Kong. We launched our first store under this brand in Melbourne, Australia, in November 2024. Our stores in Mainland China were also revamped into "TamJai Mixian" starting from 2024. In July 2025, we opened our first restaurant in Malaysia.
All On-site Profits Donated to Fund Tai Po Fire Recovery Efforts
HONG KONG, Jan. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Tam Jai International Co. Limited ("TJI") has concluded its debut as the official partner of Clockenflap 2025, uniting its three renowned rice noodle brands – TamJai Yunnan Mixian, TamJai SamGor Mixian and the international brand TamJai Mixian – for the first time. The collaboration brought the "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" spirit to the Central Harbourfront. In light of the recent tragedy in Tai Po, TJI remained guided by its genuine "Passion to Serve", pledging all on-site profits from the festival to the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals to fund recovery efforts and support for residents in need.
Throughout the weekend, the trio brands welcomed music fans on a culinary journey that embodied the brands' dedication to the city. The activation served as a global stage to showcase TamJai and SamGor's Hong Kong-born legacy while demonstrating how TamJai Mixian unifies the best of both brands for international expansion.
- "Made in Hong Kong" was highlighted to celebrate bold flavours, distinctive style and a lively dining vibe, all originated in Hong Kong and brought to life through Tam Jai's craftsmanship, signature soups and the iconic 10 spice levels honed over the years.
- "Made to Move" symbolised the relentless drive to innovate, expand into new markets and champion noodle culture on the global stage, sharing the unique "Tam Jai Taste" with the world.
Music fans immersed themselves in rhythm and delight to taste buds at the "TamJai Avenue", a dedicated zone decked in signature TamJai green and SamGor red to create a space that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Every corner was infused with the identities of the three brands, allowing visitors to explore installations that blended rice noodle heritage with Hong Kong culture.
Mr Daren Lau, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TJI, reflected on the event, "'Bringing the unique Tam Jai Taste to the world' has never been merely a statement, but a commitment and vision that we have built step by step throughout the years. From our deep origins in this vibrant city, we have cultivated three iconic brands – 'TamJai Yunnan Mixian', 'TamJai SamGor Mixian' and 'TamJai Mixian'. Their debut on a united front at Clockenflap symbolises an important step in our journey to present Hong Kong's spirit on a global stage, sharing our beloved 'Tam Jai Taste' with music enthusiasts across the globe."
"Music has the power to connect, heal and uplift, especially in challenging times. With deep love for the families affected by the tragic Tai Po fire, TJI donates all profits from Clockenflap 2025 to support the emergency needs and recovery efforts of the community. This reflects our 'Passion to Serve' brand DNA, bringing warmth, care and hope to the communities we proudly call home."
A Culinary Recap: The Taste of Hong Kong
Festival-goers gathered at "The Taste of Hong Kong" dining area to experience an East-meets-West menu created exclusively for the event.
While fans enjoyed reimagined classics like the Mini Mixian with Pork Belly in Mala Soup, the standout items of the weekend included the innovative "Minced Pork and Homemade Pickle" series. The Minced Pork and Homemade Pickles Mini Burger and the fusion-style Avocado in Garlic and Chilli Sauce were among the most popular choices, demonstrating how authentic mixian ingredients can be transformed into shareable festival snacks.
Local Craftsmanship: Spiced Mixology
The "Spiced Mixology" Bar, a partnership with local craft distiller Perfume Trees Gin, offered cocktails that captured the essence of Hong Kong. With unique and distinctive flavours, both drinks sold out quickly on each event day and became one of the most sought-after highlights of the music festival.
- Spicy Banger (Left): A crisp gin base sharpened by SamGor's signature spice, lychee and lemongrass, finished with a facing heaven chilli.
- Gin'ger (Right): A refreshing mix of TamJai's soup essence, whiskey and gin, balanced with warming ginger and a crisp cucumber garnish.
Interactive Highlights: Engaging with the Brand
Beyond the culinary offerings, "TamJai Avenue" provided immersive cultural experiences. The "Make Your Own Bowl" workshop saw hundreds of fans creating customised phone straps featuring ingredient-shaped charms. Meanwhile, the "Spicy Soup Master" activation invited participants to roll a giant dice, with those braving the "Extremely Spicy" level receiving exclusive memorabilia. The "Bring TamJai Home" collection, featuring "Tastebud Troopers" plush toys and "Spicy Monster Gang" figurines, also proved to be a popular memento of the festival.
Looking Ahead: A Milestone Year in 2026
Following the conclusion of Clockenflap, TJI is looking towards a significant year ahead. 2026 marks the 30th Anniversary of TamJai Yunnan Mixian, a milestone celebrating three decades of serving Hong Kong. Furthermore, TamJai SamGor Mixian is preparing to take its unique flavours to new heights. Fans can look forward to a new store situated where the city connects with the world, offering one last taste of home before your next adventure. For those always on the move, you can savour the authentic taste of Tam Jai across Mainland China, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan.
About Us
Tam Jai International Co. Limited is one of the leading restaurant groups in Hong Kong, rapidly expanding its network to over 240 stores across various markets, including Mainland China, Singapore, Japan, Australia and Malaysia, with plans to enter the Philippines. Apart from self-operating restaurants, the Group also adopts alternative models such as joint venture, franchise or strategic partnership for overseas markets. The Group's portfolio of distinguished brands includes TamJai Yunnan Mixian, TamJai SamGor Mixian, and international brand TamJai Mixian, as well as Japanese dining brands, Marugame Seimen and Yakiniku Yamagyu, through franchise and licensing in Hong Kong.
With highly standardised operations, an innovative spirit and an efficient management model, TJI is committed to providing customers with a quality yet affordable dining experience while ambitiously expanding its footprints across the globe.
TamJai Yunnan Mixian brand is a fast casual restaurant chain in Hong Kong with operations in Mainland China. Our brand has over 30 years of history and the first restaurant under the TamJai Yunnan Mixian brand in Hong Kong was opened in 1996. In 2021, we opened our first restaurant under our brand in Mainland China.
TamJai SamGor Mixian brand is a fast casual restaurant chain in Hong Kong with operations in Singapore. Our brand has over 17 years of history and the first restaurant under the TamJai SamGor Mixian brand in Hong Kong was opened in 2008. In 2020 and 2022, we opened our first restaurant under our brand in Singapore and Japan respectively.
TamJai Mixian represents our international brand, capturing the essence of our flagship brands "TamJai Yunnan Mixian" and "TamJai SamGor Mixian" in Hong Kong. We launched our first store under this brand in Melbourne, Australia, in November 2024. Our stores in Mainland China were also revamped into "TamJai Mixian" starting from 2024. In July 2025, we opened our first restaurant in Malaysia.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Tam Jai International Unites Its Three Iconic Brands at Clockenflap 2025, Rallies Support for Tai Po Community with "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" Spirit
Tam Jai International Unites Its Three Iconic Brands at Clockenflap 2025, Rallies Support for Tai Po Community with "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" Spirit
Tam Jai International Unites Its Three Iconic Brands at Clockenflap 2025, Rallies Support for Tai Po Community with "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" Spirit
Tam Jai International Unites Its Three Iconic Brands at Clockenflap 2025, Rallies Support for Tai Po Community with "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" Spirit
Tam Jai International Unites Its Three Iconic Brands at Clockenflap 2025, Rallies Support for Tai Po Community with "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" Spirit
Tam Jai International Unites Its Three Iconic Brands at Clockenflap 2025, Rallies Support for Tai Po Community with "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" Spirit
Tam Jai International Unites Its Three Iconic Brands at Clockenflap 2025, Rallies Support for Tai Po Community with "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" Spirit
Tam Jai International Unites Its Three Iconic Brands at Clockenflap 2025, Rallies Support for Tai Po Community with "Made in Hong Kong, Made to Move" Spirit
