Vietnam | Approved a Project to Install Smart Border Crossings on the Frontier with China

Vietnam has approved a project to install smart border crossings at the approaches to the Kim Thanh and Ban Vuoc road bridge in the northwestern province of Lao Cai, on the frontier with China.

 The corresponding resolution was signed by Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc, according to Vietnam News Agency (VNA) and consists in a project based on a model that integrates  advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) , the internet of Things (IoT), as well as fully automated intelligent systems for transport flow management.

During the development, the multimodal logistics infrastructure will be modernized, which is expected to ensure efficient connections with high speed expressways, inland container depots, railways, and economic corridors connecting Vietnam and the Association of Southeast Asian (ASEAN) countries with the southwestern of China.

The implementation of the project will begin in the second quarter of 2026. In the first phase, the legal framework will be established, technical standards for the operation of smart border crossings will be developed, and agreements will be reached with the Chinese side on the cross - border transport of goods using fully automated vehicles. The second phase contemplates the development of the necessary infrastructure.  

By 2030 is expected to double the capacity of the cargo terminals in Kim Thanh and Ban Vuoc, reduce average logistics costs by 20% to 30% for companies using auromated transport, and significantly reduce administrative processing times for goods. The total volume of foreign trade is expected to reach approximately $9 billion.

According to the Vietnamese authorities, the implementation of the project will create an important centre for import and export activities, improve the competitiveness of the national enterprises, deepen international integration, strengthen Vietnam’s security and promote the sustainable development of the border area.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/vietnam-instalar-pasos-fronterizos-inteligentes-en-la-frontera-con-china/

Ghana | To Grant Fee - Free E - Visa Access to All African Citizens from 25 May 2026

Ghana will grant fee - free e - visa access to all African citizens from 25 May 2026, coinciding with Africa Day, streamlining travel to boost tourism, trade, snd Pan - African unity. While the visa fee is waived, travellers must still apply online and pass security checks using a new API - PNR system. 

The policy was announced by President John Mahama during bilateral talks with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnagaagwa during a meeting which took place in the capital of the country, Accra.

The free visa scheme forms part of Ghana’s broader rollout of a nationwide e - visa system, which will be integrated with Advance Passenger Information, Passenger Name Record systems, and international crime database to enable throughout background checks.

If. implemented .as announced, Ghana will join a small group of Africa nations, including Benin, Kenya, Rwanda, Seychelles, and The Gambia that have removed travel barriers for African citizens, offering visa - free or free - e - visa access to all African passport holders. 

The move is expected to boost intra - African  mobility and strengthen Ghana’s position as a regional hub for regional integration, tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

Ghana,s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa clarified that applicants will still required to complete the standard e - visa process through a new online platform currently in development, but will pay no fees, stating that African citizens wil have to go through a visa application process like everyone else, theirs would simply be gratis.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/ghana-to-offer-free-e-visas-to-all-african-citizens-from-may.html

China | Started the Construction on a 50 MW Solar Thermal Power Plant at an Altitude of 4,550 Metres

China has started the construction on a 50 MW solar thermal power plant at an altitude of 4,550 metres, making it the world’s highest - altitude parabolic through solar thermal facility as reported by Xinhua news agency.

The plant is located in a mountainous area of Tibet in  the southwest of the country and will part of an integrated project started in September 2025 that combines solar thermal and photovoltaic generation, with a capacity of 400 megawatts, using parabolic trough technology with thermal oil as a heat transfer fluid. 

The mirror field will occupy an area of 242.000 square metres and the molten salt energy storage system will have a capacity of 6 hours, which will also allow electricity to be generated during the night.

Heating systems, oxygen supply and a hyperbaric chamber, a arirtight device in which a person breathes oxygen at high pressure for therapeutic purposes have been installed on the site. Full commissioning is scheduled for 2027.

Due to the low oxygen level in high mountain conditions, the works can only be carried out between April and October.

Once in operation, the solar thermal power plant will generate around 719 million kilowatt hours per year, serving more than 216.900 tonnes of coal equivalent and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 652.300 tonnes.

Despite the harsh climatic conditions, the region has great potential for the development of clean energy thanks to its abundant solar, wind and water resources.

The project has already created more than 2.000 jobs for local people and contributed more than 5.2 million yuan to the regional budget.

The local government plans to increase the installed generation capacity from 13 million kilowatts in 2025 to 20 million in 2026.
Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/china-inicia-la-construcci-n-de-una-central-solar-t-rmica-a-4-550-metros-de-altura/

Brazil | Established a Decree on the National Policy for the Arts

Brazil has established a decree on the national policy of the arts. President Luiz Inácio da Silva and Minister of Culture Margareth Menezes signed a document establishing the “Politica Nacional das Artes” (PNA).

The development of the National Arts Policy began in 2015, then the process was interumped in 2016 and resumed in 2023. In March 2024, during the IV National Conference on Culture in Brasilia, a working group was created within the Ministry of Culture. Its result was the base text “Brazil of the Arts: National Policy”, which served as the basis for the document.

The initiative is part of the revitalization of the Ministry of Culture, aimed at reversing previous years of defunding and prioritizing public cultural access.

The decree establishes the legal framework for the protection, preservation and development of  artistic expressions in the country,  with  he objective to expand access to art as an essential part of the cultural rights of the population, enshrined in Article 215 of country’s Constitution.

The document defines a set of diverse forms of human creation or expression in the field of the arts, which include the visual arts, film, dance, circus, literature, music, theatre, and it has the aim to protect cultural rights.

The PNA is based on seven principles, including guaranteeing freedom of creation, supporting the diversity of cultural manifestations, inclusiveness and accessibility for all population groups, as well as a commitment to sustainable development and environmental responsibility.

According to the text of the decree, the State assumes the commitment to protect the memory of Brazilian art, including the safeguarding, conservation and registration of artistic practices and collections.

Particular attention is paid to the enhancement of teachers of traditional and folk culture, as well as to the encouragement of the transmission of knowlesge between generations.

The coordination of the new policy will be in charge of the Ministry of Culture. Its management is based on collaboration between the federal government, states, municipalities, cultural agents and civil society institutions.

According to the Brazilian government’s website, Culture Minister Margareth Menezes said that the country has now a legal framework that recognizes the importance of the protection, promotion and development of the arts.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/presidente-de-brasil-firma-un-decreto-sobre-pol-tica-nacional-de-las-artes/

South Africa | Proposing a Draft Code of Good Practices for Short - Term Rentals

South Africa Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has released a draft code of Good Practices for short - rentals (STRs) such as Airbnb, for public comment by 12 May 2026. 

This non - binding framework aims to foster responsible hosting, safety, and compliance with municipal bylaws, serving as an interim guide before proposed, tigher regulations and potential law changes. 

Issued under Chapter 2 of the Tourism Act 3 of 2014, the code seeks to promote responsible conduct within the STR market while the government undertakes a broader review of tourism legislation. 

The move comes as short - rentals have become an increasingly significant part of South Africa’s accommodation landscape, raising policy operations around zoning, safety standards, neighbourhood impacts and fair competition with established hospitality businesses. 

Stakeholders, industry bodies and members of the public have 60 days to submit written comments, with a deadline of 12 May 2026.

As the Tourism Act does not grant the minister regulatory authority over STRs, with oversight largely falling under municipal jurisdiction, the code is designed as a transitional measure rather than birding regulation. 

Municipalities may adopt it as a guiding framework for local planning decisions. The Department of Tourism is simultaneously reviewing the Tourism Act following Cabinet’s approval of the 2024 White Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa, with STR governance identified as a key policy gap to be addressed through that process. 

Key details of the proposed draft code include: 

•    Target Audience: The code applies to hosts, digital platforms, and guests. 
•    Key Requirements for Hosts: Hosts must ensure compliance with existing municipal bylaws, safety standards like smoke detectors, and ensure proper insurance. 
•    Community Standards: Guidelines require informing guests of noise resttrictions, parking rules, and body corporate policies. 
•    Data and Taxation: The draft suggest platforms share user data on occupancy and “economic contributions,” which may lead to tighter tax compliance. 
•    Municipal Action: The code supports, in part, existing moves by cities to classify frequently rented homes as commercial properties, which could increase rates and taxes. 

The initiative aims to address the rapid growth of the sharing economy while balancing it with the traditiona hospitality sector. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback before the upcoming deadline. 

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/south-africa-proposes-code-of-conduct-for-short-term-rentals.html

Miramis | International Portfolio Expansion with Developments of New Properties Across Tuscany, Italy and Stockholm, Sweden

Miramis, an emerging hospitality platform, backed by Swedish investment firm Qarlbo AB, that develops and operates premium hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, has announced a series of expansion projects in Tuscany, Italy and Stocholm, Sweden, including new properties , as well as the refurbishment of existing venues. 

The company characterized by a philosophy focuses on rejuvenating historic sites with modern design, “deepening local roots and creatuing, sustainable community - driven experiences, has outlined plans to expand its portfolio internationally.

Projects in Tuscany, Italy:

In Tuscany the company will add La Capitana, a countryside estate in Magliano, an attractive comune in the Province of Grosseto, located in southern Maremma, about 130 kilometres south of Florence.

Magliano is a fortified Village featuring remarkably preserved ,medieval ,walls, Etruscan roots, and panoramic views of vineyards and olive groves. Key attractions include the 13^th – century Palazzo di Checco il Bello, the Romanesque San Giovanni Battista church, and the ancient “L’ Ulivo della Strega” (Witch’s Olive Tree).

Scheduled for 2027, the estate will include 12 suites, olive oil production, and a winery. The architectural design for La Capitana is being led by Italian architect Marco Casamonti.

In Argentario, a dramatic, hilly promontory in the province of Grosseto in southern Tuscany, known for its rugged limestone cliffs, Mediterranean scrubs, and two major port towns, Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole, Miramis will continue operations at LA ROQQA, Isolotto Beach Club, and proceed with the refurbishment of Hotel Torre di Cala Piccola.

The company also announced the start of the Ex - Cirio project in the port of Argentario, described as an urban regeneration initiative focused on wellness.

Projects in Stocholm, Sweden:

In Sweden, Miramis will transform the historic Hotel Hasslbacken in Stockholm, which will serve as the company’s flagship property. The hotel, located on Stockholm Djurgården island adjacent to Skansen, ABBA The Museum, and Gröna Lund, since 1765 offers historic charm with 113- modern rooms, a popular restaurant with a terrace, a sauna, a gym and free bike rentals.

The company’s expansion in Stockholm also includes the addition of Gasometer, a venue scheduled to join Miramis portfolio in 2027, described as a destination for live performances and immersive and immersive formats, and it will host the Royal Swedish Opera over the coming years. Chef Stefan Eriksson will lead the culinary concept of the venue.

Further developments in the Swedish capital include Backstage Hotel and Cirkus Arena, which will be part of Miramis’ next phase of growth in the city.

Alongside these projects  in Tuscany and Stockholm, Miramis has named Stefano Cuoco as Chief Executive Officer of the company.

Link

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140862.html

Dorsett Hospitality International | Unveiled the Upcoming Opening of its First Dao by Dorsett Hotel in Iskandar Puteri, Malaysia

Dorsett Hospitality International Ltd., a leading hotel chain based in Hong Kong  with hotels and apartments across Asia Pacific and Europe under various brands, a subsidiary  of Far East Consortium International Limited has unveiled the upcoming opening of its first Dao by Dorser hotel in Iskandar Puteri, a city and administrative capital of the state of Johor, Malaysia, situated along the Strait of Johor at the southern end of the Malay Peninsula and the southernmost city of continental Eurasia.

Iskandar Puteri, formerly Nusajaya, is a major, modern city bordering Singapore via the Second Link, featuring key developments like EduCity, a, hub for international universities, tourist attractions like Puteri Harbour, Puteri Legoland Malaysia, and Sunway City Iskandar Puteri, which includes residential , hospitality, retail and medical components, a centre designed as a sustainable hub focusing on commercial,  and tourism sectors known for diverse cultural experiences and a mix of international residents.

Dao by Dorsett Puteri Cove, scheduled to open on 15 May 2026 is located in Tower 3, Persiaran Tanjung, on the marina front near Puteri Harbour’s dining and retail area, 950 metres form Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal and 4 kilometres from Legoland Mlaysia.

The hotel has direct access to Tanjung Puteri sentre, Tanjung offshore and marine hubs, located minutes from Gleneagles Hospital and Sunway Medical Centre. The area is surrounded by international schools, including Sunway, Stellar, Invictus International Schools, MDIS Malaysia, and Raffles American School.

The property offers an easy access to commercial, medical, and educational hubs in the region. Regional connectivity includes 52 kilometres from Marina Bay Financial Centre, 59 kilometres from Changi Airport, 42 kilometres from Seletar Airport via TPE, and 32 kilometres from Senai International Airport.

The 32 - story hotel features 213 comfortable rooms and suites across four categories: Studio, One Bedroom, Two Bedroom, and Two Bedroom Plus Facility. Each suites includes a fully equipped kitchenette, laundry facilities, and a refrigerator.

Guests at Dao by Dorsett Puteri Cove have access to various amenities, including a gym, a swimming pool, a spa jacuzzi, and meeting facilities.

The establishment is the fourth Dao property globally, following two units  in the United Kingdom and one in Singapore.

In the past 12 months Doreett Hospitality Iternational has opened seven new properties worldwide, including hotels, academic accommodations, student accommodations, and youth hostels in major cities such as Hong Kong,  Johor, Osaka, Shanghai, Singapore, and London.

Link

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140838.html