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AI to Protect Prosecco: Microsoft Italy and the Italian Mint and State Printing Office join forces to fight counterfeit of the world’s best-selling Italian sparkling wine

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Microsoft Italy and the Italian Mint and Printing Office have signed a collaborative agreement to protect Italian products from counterfeit goods and the “Italian sounding” phenomenon by using advanced generative artificial intelligence solutions. As part of the memorandum, an AI-based virtual assistant will be developed to verify the authenticity of products. A concrete example of this collaboration is the project with the Consorzio di Tutela della DOC Prosecco, which aims to create a virtual assistant capable of guaranteeing the authenticity of the label and providing detailed information about the product.

NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Microsoft Italy and the Italian Mint and State Printing Institute S.p.A. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) launching a strategic collaboration aimed at developing innovative artificial intelligence projects to protect the authenticity of Italian products from counterfeit sales.

Among the initiatives covered by this agreement is the development of a virtual assistant based on Azure OpenAI, Microsoft Copilot and proprietary IPZS models. This assistant will be capable of verifying product authenticity and analyzing data traceability, thus contributing to the fight against the counterfeiting of Italian excellence worldwide.

An example of this collaboration is the project with the Consorzio di Tutela Prosecco DOC – the most popular Italian sparkling wine in the world, with 616 million bottles produced as of 2023 (81% of which are exported). The project involves the development of a generative artificial intelligence chatbot called the Brand Protection Assistant. This tool will provide users with a range of useful information about the products, including verifying the authenticity of the label through a simple photo of the state seal. Additionally, by taking a photo of the label, the virtual assistant will provide detailed information on origin, characteristics and pairings. This is a pilot project that will be replicable and scalable for all “Made in Italy” products, including those in the agri-food sector and beyond.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) helps expand the scope of potential collaboration between the two parties to optimize business operations through Copilot for Microsoft 365 and the use of Microsoft’s Azure cloud services. The companies will identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, increase scalability and modernize business management systems, enabling a more innovative management system.

Francesco Soro, CEO of the Italian Mint and State Printing Office, said: “With the launch of this project, the Italian Mint and State Printing Office reaffirms its position as the leading and most advanced point of reference in the fight against counterfeiting and the protection of Italian excellence in global markets.”

Vincenzo Esposito, CEO of Microsoft Italy, said: “The collaboration between Microsoft and the Italian Mint and State Printing Office initiates new digitization projects aimed at enhancing the security and authenticity of Italian products, while fostering innovation and leveraging the latest technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing. We are proud of our first project with the Institute to protect a world-renowned brand, such as the Consorzio di Tutela Prosecco DOC. Thanks to the simplicity of AI, consumers will be able to verify the authenticity of the product.”

Giancarlo Guidolin, President of the Consorzio di Tutela Prosecco DOC, said: “The agreement between Microsoft and the Italian Mint and State Printing Office is a source of great satisfaction for us. Consumers will be better protected than ever through a simple chatbot that uses artificial intelligence, making access to information more convenient and immediate. We are really happy that our product, which is the result of the tireless work of everyone in the supply chain, can be protected by using technology to our advantage. For some time now, we have enjoyed a fruitful collaboration with the Mint and the State Printing Office to find innovative technological solutions that provide ever-greater security to consumers. We are excited about the future and are confident that this innovation will bring tangible and lasting benefits to the world of appellations of origin.”

Microsoft
Microsoft enables organizations to realize their digital transformation projects with new innovation scenarios such as cloud computing and artificial intelligence. The company’s mission is to help people and organizations worldwide achieve more through technology and digital solutions. More information about Microsoft is available at https://www.microsoft.com/it-it/.

Microsoft Italia
https://news.microsoft.com/it-it/
Chiara Mizzi, Director of External Relations                     
chiaram@microsoft.com

Burson
Marta Grassini
marta.grassini@bcw-global.com – Tel. 346 9565753
Martina Nava
mailto:martina.nava@bcw-global.com – Tel. 320 8255390
Valeria Valenti
valeria.valenti@bcw-global.com – Tel. 328.1932734

CONSORZIO DI TUTELA DELLA DOC PROSECCO
http://www.prosecco.wine
Elena Maccatrozzo / Communications
comunicazione@consorzioprosecco.it

CLAP COMMUNICATION
Albina Podda / Press office
albina@clapcommunication.it – Tel. 3484510176

ITALIAN MINT AND STATE PRINTING OFFICE
https://www.ipzs.it/ext/index.html
Press Office
ufficiostampa@ipzs.it

Media Contact

Eleonora Vatteroni, Colangelo & Partners, 6466242885, evatteroni@colangelopr.com

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SOURCE Colangelo & Partners

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EcoCharge® and Balancell Partner to Drive Energy Efficiency in Africa with Advanced and Stable Charging Technologies

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CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, Sept. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Two advanced energy solutions companies are announcing a multi-year partnership to support the growing demand for reliable and efficient charging solutions across the African market. The IDEAL Industries, Inc. brand EcoCharge by Enatel®, a global leader in battery charging technologies, is supplying charging technology to Balancell, a cutting-edge battery manufacturer and energy supplier.

Empowering Africa’s Energy Transition

Africa is experiencing a dynamic shift toward sustainable energy and electric mobility. Global banks and investors funded $76.04 billion in solar, hydropower, and wind projects across Africa from 2012 to 2021. The investments supported renewable energy developments like Kenya’s Lake Turkana Wind Power Project, a $1.095 billion wind farm that boosted their total electricity supply by 13%. Electrification is also rising; Africa’s electric vehicle market is expected to nearly double between 2021 and 2027.

However, more work remains. Africa attracts less than 5% of the world’s energy investments, using only 11% of its hydropower potential and 0.01% of its wind potential. Over 40% of Africans still lack access to electricity.

To advance battery charging solutions in Africa, Balancell will leverage charging technologies from EcoCharge to electrify the African material handling fleet. This initiative will help reduce CO2 emissions and enhance charging efficiency.

“We are thrilled to be part of the renewable energy transition in Africa,” said Enatel General Manager Mike Clifford. “By partnering with Balancell, we are matching a leading-edge battery design with an advanced charger. We’re confident this winning combination will help our customers achieve faster charging, less energy waste, and higher performance.”

Partnering for Growth and Sustainability

Under the agreement, EcoCharge will supply Balancell with a range of chargers that meet the challenging needs of the African market, such as unstable electrical grids and harsh environments. These advanced chargers will be integrated into Balancell’s advanced industrial batteries, providing the perfect match for optimal energy management and control.

“Partnering with EcoCharge allows us to offer our customers superior charging solutions that are both innovative and sustainable,” said Paul Osborne, Director and Chief Financial Officer of Balancell. “This collaboration enhances our ability to deliver comprehensive energy solutions that support Africa’s transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.”

Driving Innovation

EcoCharge chargers are known for their durability, efficiency, and adaptability, making them suitable for deployment in diverse and sometimes challenging environments across Africa. This partnership with Balancell not only strengthens the product offerings available to the African market but also underscores the EcoCharge commitment to continued innovation and investment in sustainable energy solutions.

To learn more about the transition to sustainable energy, visit: https://www.EcoCharge.net/

About EcoCharge®
EcoCharge leads the battery charging market with a range of high-quality products, including single phase chargers, three phase chargers and BMM’s. They are designed and manufactured in New Zealand to ISO9001 standards and carry global compliance marks.

About Enatel®
Enatel is a world leader in power conversion and battery charging technology based in Christchurch, New Zealand. The company specializes in developing high-efficiency and sustainable charging solutions for a variety of applications.

To learn more about the transition to sustainable energy, visit: https://www.enatel.net/

About IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. is a global, diversified 108-year-old family-owned business that designs and manufactures superior products for the electrical, power management and industrial charging industries.

For more information, visit www.idealindustries.com.

About Balancell
Balancell is a leading provider of energy solutions, with a focus on lithium-ion battery technology and energy management systems. Headquartered in Cape Town, Balancell serves a diverse range of industries, including telecommunications, renewable energy, and electric vehicles.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/ecocharge-and-balancell-partner-to-drive-energy-efficiency-in-africa-with-advanced-and-stable-charging-technologies-302254810.html

SOURCE IDEAL Industries

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Global Digital Health Leaders Converge in Seoul for HIMSS24 APAC Conference

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SEOUL, Korea, Sept. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The 2024 HIMSS Asia Pacific Health Conference & Exhibition, one of the most influential digital health conferences in the APAC region, will be hosted for the first time in Seoul, Korea. The conference will take place from 1 – 4 October at the Coex Convention & Exhibition Center.

The HIMSS24 APAC Conference will bring together healthcare experts and innovators from around the world to collaborate and exchange ideas and insights that will help shape the future of healthcare. 

The conference presents a unique opportunity for attendees to hear from world-renowned experts, network with leading healthcare executives and professionals, and learn about cutting-edge developments and technologies addressing critical issues such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, interoperability, and data analytics.

Produced in partnership with Messe Esang, Korea’s largest exhibition company, the HIMSS24 APAC Conference will feature visionary keynotes, interactive demonstrations, and a digital health technology exhibition that will illuminate cutting-edge health tech topics, enhance knowledge, and foster innovation.

Through a partnership with the Korean Hospital Association, attendees of the HIMSS APAC conference will have complimentary access to the K-Hospital + Healthtech Fair, the largest healthcare exhibition in South Korea.

Sessions catered to HIMSS24 APAC’s four learning tracks on artificial intelligence, smart hospitals, cybersecurity, and innovations will include fireside chats, real-world case studies, demonstrations, and more. Exclusive to HIMSS24 APAC, attendees can also experience advanced medical systems and management practices shaping the future of global healthcare with guided tours of leading hospitals in Korea

The HIMSS APAC Conference follows the memorandum of understanding signed by HIMSS, the Korea Hospital Association (KHA), and the Korea Health Information Services (KHIS) on May 17, 2024.

HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society) is a global advisor, thought leader, and member-based society committed to reforming the global health ecosystem through the power of information and technology. As a mission-driven nonprofit, HIMSS offers a unique depth and breadth of expertise in health innovation, public policy, workforce development, research, and digital health transformation to advise leaders, stakeholders, and influencers across the global health ecosystem on best practices.

Click here to register or learn more about HIMSS24 APAC.

Journalists interested in attending the conference can contact HIMSS to receive complimentary press credentials.

Contact:

Albe Zakes
HIMSS Communications Director
Email: albe.zakes@himss.org
Phone: +1.267.221.4800

Sukhjit Singh
Senior Director, HIMSS APAC
Email: Sukhjit.Singh@himss.org
Phone: 65.6664.1187

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/global-digital-health-leaders-converge-in-seoul-for-himss24-apac-conference-302256242.html

SOURCE HIMSS-HEALTHCARE INFORMATION AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS SOCIETY

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EDC expands Indo-Pacific presence with a new representation in Japan

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Tokyo hub in key “gateway to Asia” nation will better support Canadian exporters

OTTAWA, ON and TOKYO, Sept. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Export Development Canada (EDC) announced the opening of its new representation in Tokyo, Japan. This marks EDC’s ninth Indo-Pacific representation, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to helping Canadian companies diversify into higher-growth markets.

As the world’s fourth-largest economy and fifth-largest export destination for Canada in 2023 (accounting for 1.9% of national exports), Japan presents a wealth of opportunities for Canadian exporters of all sizes. Boasting a trusted free market and a strong business and a regulatory environment supported by democratic institutions, the country serves as a strategic launchpad offering exporters easier entry into the region and subsequently into other Indo-Pacific markets. EDC’s Tokyo representation will serve as a vital hub, offering on-the-ground support, market insights and tailored financial services to Canadian companies.

Japan is a key trading partner for Canada, and our countries enjoy deep economic and trade relations spanning 95 years,” said Mairead Lavery, President and CEO, EDC. “With Japan’s reliance on imports, the opportunities for Canadian exporters— particularly in sectors like cleantech, agriculture, and bioscience—are too big to ignore. This representation will offer on-the-ground support necessary for Canadian businesses to capitalize on emerging opportunities and succeed in the Japanese market.” 

In 2023, Japanese foreign direct investment (FDI) stock into Canada reached $49.3 billion, solidifying its role as the leading source of FDI from the Indo-Pacific and third largest worldwide, according to Global Affairs Canada. Additionally, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), in force since 2018, continues to provide Canadian investors with access to Japanese markets by having eliminated or reduced tariffs on most key Canadian exports to the country.

The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, welcomed the announcement: “Canada’s longstanding economic and trading partnership with Japan reflects the powerful collaboration between our two countries that benefits Canadian and Japanese people alike. EDC’s new Tokyo representation is a testament to the enduring economic relationship between Canada and Japan and will play a crucial role in supporting Canadian businesses in the Indo-Pacific. I look forward to seeing our trade and investment relationship advance further through these new collaborations.”

George Monize, EDC’s Managing Director and Head of the Indo-Pacific emphasized the strategic importance of Japan for Canadian companies: “Japan has many of the critical elements for Canadian exporters’ expansion in this region. But to really thrive here—strong relationships are key. And that is why we are here, getting to know the market inside and out to forge the connections Canadian companies need to grow and succeed. The Tokyo representation will work closely with our established Singapore hub—harnessing our learnings, experience and networks to ensure we have the right recipe of support in place for Canadian businesses.”

With efforts led by EDC’s Chief Representative, Jean-Bernard Ruggieri, the Tokyo office will collaborate closely with local agencies, government and partners in Japan to navigate market complexities and facilitate business opportunities for Canadian companies. Tokyo complements EDC’s existing representations in Delhi, Mumbai, Shanghai, Beijing, Sydney, Jakarta, Seoul, and Singapore.

About EDC 

Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation dedicated to helping Canadian businesses make an impact at home and abroad. EDC has the financial products and knowledge Canadian companies need to confidently enter new markets, reduce financial risk and grow their business as they go from local to global. Together, EDC and Canadian companies are building a more prosperous, stronger and sustainable economy for all Canadians. For more information and to learn how we can help your company, call us at 1-800-229-0575 or visit www.edc.ca

Media Contact: Media | Export Development Canada, 1-888-222-4065, media@edc.ca 

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