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Taiwan scraps paper arrival card 1 October

SINGAPORE, 19 September: Taiwan will transition to a mandatory, digital arrival card system on 1 October, making the traditional paper-based arrival card redundant.

Travellers will need to complete the digital Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC) if they are on short-term visas or stays, including both tourists and business travellers.

Photo credit: Taiwan Arrival Card. Visit: Taiwan Arrival Card

The exclusions are travellers holding a Resident Visa, Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), or diplomatic passport.

This change is part of a broader effort by Taiwan to enhance its border entry procedures, following the example of other countries in the region that have also adopted digital arrival cards.

It streamlines the immigration process, significantly speeds up border clearance, while reduces the use of paper, aligning with global trends in border management.

How to apply

The digital form, known as the TWAC, is available on the official portal: twac.immigration.gov.tw.

You can fill out the form online within three days before your departure.

The system is available in English, with instructions in multiple languages, including Japanese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian.

Information required

Passport information (name, number, nationality, date of birth).

Flight or ship details and your arrival date.

Address and contact information during your stay in Taiwan.

Purpose of travel.

TWAC system features

Ease of use: You can upload a photo of your passport’s bio-data page to automatically fill in some of the fields, making the process faster.

Group applications: One person can fill out the form for a group of up to 16 people.

Confirmation: After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code. While you may be asked to show this at immigration, in most cases, the system will automatically link your submitted data to your passport when the immigration officer scans it.

On-site assistance: For travellers who haven’t completed the form in advance, QR codes will be displayed at airports and harbours, and terminals and staff will be available to assist with filling out the digital card on-site.

This change is part of a broader effort by Taiwan to enhance its border entry procedures, following the example of other countries in the region that have also adopted digital arrival cards.

According to the National Immigration Agency (NIA), the TWAC system has been upgraded with a more intuitive, user-friendly, and efficient interface to keep up with global trends in border management and international travel. A pilot version of the TWAC was introduced in May 2025. NIA reported this week that the complete phase-out of the paper version of the arrival card will take place on 1 October.

Travellers may fill out the form in either Chinese or English, with guidance available in seven languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian. To streamline the process, the system now allows automatic data extraction from a snapshot of the passport biographic page.

For families and group travellers, one person may fill out the forms for up to 16 individuals. Email verification is mandatory, and a confirmation email will be sent upon successful registration. By scanning the traveller’s passport, pre-submitted data can be retrieved, enhancing both the speed and accuracy of immigration clearance.

To further promote the use of TAWC, the NIA has coordinated with airlines and shipping companies to display TWAC QR codes at check-in counters at airports and seaports. Travellers who have not registered in advance may still scan the QR code and submit the TAWC form upon arrival.

Asian nations with similar digital arrival card systems

  • Thailand: The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) has replaced the paper-based TM6 form.
  • Singapore: The Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) is a mandatory electronic form that visitors must submit before arrival.
  • South Korea: South Korea has implemented a mandatory e-Arrival Card system.
  • Philippines: The Philippines has a digital arrival card system.
  • Malaysia: Malaysia has a Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) system.
  • Japan: Japan has a digital arrival card system, though it has been noted to be optional in some cases.

Dusit Thani College onboards Japan test

BANGKOK, 18 September 2025: Dusit Thani College, Thailand’s leading institute for hospitality education under Dusit International, has been officially certified to administer Japan’s Accommodation Industry Proficiency Test in Thailand.

It creates direct pathways for Thai and ASEAN talent to secure skilled positions in Japan’s hospitality sector. The milestone follows the signing of an agreement on 2 September 2025 between Dusit Thani College, the General Incorporated Association Centre for Accommodation Industry Proficiency Test, and the All Japan Ryokan Hotel Association, with support from the Kyoto Convention & Visitors Bureau and Jeducation language school in Bangkok.

Photo credit Dusit Thani College. From left: John Lohr, Executive Director of External Affairs, Dusit Thani College; Dr Atthawet Prougestaporn, Rector, Dusit Thani College; Shintaro Sugawara, Director, General Incorporated Association Centre for Accommodation Industry Proficiency Test; Yuki Kameoka, Executive Director, All Japan Ryokan Hotel Association.

As Thailand’s first certified testing centre, Dusit Thani College can now recruit and train Thai and ASEAN candidates through its renowned hospitality and culinary arts programmes and facilitate their official skills certification locally. 

Successful graduates will qualify for employment in Japan via the government’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, introduced in 2019 to help address labour shortages in industries such as hospitality and food and beverage.

Aligned with Dusit Thani College’s fast-track Talent Opportunity Programme (TOP), which prepares participants for entry-level roles in just six months, the new pathway gives aspiring professionals a unique opportunity to train, gain certification, and access employment in Japan.

The All Japan Ryokan Hotel Association, representing more than 15,000 traditional inns and hotels across Japan, will help promote certified candidates to member employers via dedicated job fairs hosted in Bangkok. Dusit Hotels and Resorts will also welcome graduates to its own properties in Japan, including Dusit Thani Kyoto and ASAI Kyoto Shijo, further strengthening opportunities for international placement.

Jeducation, a leading Japanese language school in Bangkok, will provide essential language training to ensure participants meet SSW visa requirements, fully equipping them for life and work in Japan.

“This collaboration directly addresses the hospitality skills shortage in Japan while creating exciting career opportunities for our students,” said Dusit Thani College Executive Director of External Affairs, John Lohr. “By combining world-class training at Dusit Thani College with official certification and a clear pathway to employment, we are building a strong pipeline of talent that benefits both Thailand and Japan.”

Dusit Hotels and Resorts Area General Manager – Kyoto, Makoto Yamashita, added: “This partnership underscores our commitment to developing future leaders in hospitality and giving them access to life-changing opportunities abroad. It is a win–win for our students, our partners, and the wider industry.”

Dusit Thani College will begin recruiting candidates for its TOP Japan Pathway programme in October 2025. The first examinations and employer recruitment fairs will take place in February 2026.

For more information, visit dtc.ac.th/en/home.

Agoda promotes World Tourism Day deals

BANGKOK, 18 September 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda is spotlighting the growing appeal of secondary destinations ahead of World Tourism Day on 27 September. 

As travellers increasingly seek distinctive experiences, Agoda notes a rise in accommodation searches for lesser-known destinations that even outpace searches for traditional hotspots. This trend not only has the potential to enrich the travel experience but could also unlock economic opportunities for local communities, according to the company.

Photo credit: Agoda.

Agoda’s data reveals that travellers are increasingly searching for secondary destinations, and at a pace 15% faster than top-tier destinations, compared to the same period in 2023. 

This shift is evident in some of Asia’s most popular tourism magnets, such as Thailand, India, Indonesia, Japan, and Malaysia, where tourism ministries are actively promoting secondary destinations. 

For instance, Thailand has an abundance of programmes and initiatives that specifically promote secondary destinations, including tax incentives for domestic tourists travelling to the provinces during the low season, as well as a recent proposal from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to offer free domestic flights to international visitors to explore beyond Thailand’s major tourist cities. Similar schemes are presented in Malaysia and Japan to promote travel beyond the gateway destinations.

As a digital travel platform, Agoda plays a key role in promoting Asia’s secondary cities by enabling properties in rural areas to transition to digital platforms, increasing their visibility and accessibility. By partnering with Destination Management Organisations, Agoda leverages its extensive data insights and marketing channels to highlight lower-profile destinations.

Agoda CEO Omri Morgenshtern shared: “The increasing popularity of secondary destinations provides an opportunity to create a more prosperous travel industry and boost local economies. Agoda is proud to support this transformation by raising the profile of these locations to a global audience, as we know spreading the tourism dollar more widely brings a wide range of benefits to communities.”

In celebration of World Tourism Day, Agoda is launching a special sales campaign running from 24 September to 8 October, offering 60% off hotel bookings. Special flash sales will take place on 27 September and 6 October, with deals of up to 70% off, along with exclusive discounts on flights and activities. Agoda VIP members will receive early access to deals from 21 to 23 September. 

Malaysia Airlines forges partnerships

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 September 2025: Malaysia Airlines formalised strategic partnerships with Malaysia’s state tourism boards during the recent MATTA Fair, Malaysia’s largest consumer travel showcase. 

The partnerships build on the airline’s signature Time For campaign, which is currently running across global markets including Australia, Europe, India, China and beyond — showcasing the unique stories of Malaysia through a series of activations. 

Fourth from left: Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines Dersenish Aresandiran.

Together with the Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme, which allows international travellers to extend their journeys beyond gateway cities, Malaysia Airlines is strengthening the visibility of Malaysia’s diverse destinations on the world stage. 

Through these initiatives, Malaysia Airlines aims to attract more international arrivals, deliver seamless, personalised, and rewarding travel experiences, and reinforce its ambition to position Malaysia as a premier hub in Asia ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines Dersenish Aresandiran said: “By joining hands with our state tourism boards, we are unlocking new opportunities to grow tourism, empower local communities, and deliver world-class travel powered by digital innovation. As we prepare to welcome the world for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026), our mission is clear – to showcase Malaysia as a must-visit destination and ensure every journey with us is seamless, memorable, and proudly Malaysian.”

Penang Global Tourism (PGT)

Malaysia Airlines leads a partnership to establish Penang as a premier gateway and stopover destination. Currently a destination under the BST programme, both parties will launch joint marketing campaigns further to strengthen Penang’s visibility in key international markets. 

With its world-famous heritage, food, and culture, Penang will be promoted as both a stand-alone destination and an essential part of wider itineraries across Malaysia, amplifying its role in attracting international arrivals during Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

Langkawi Development Authority (LADA)

Malaysia Airlines and LADA are set to formalise a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Q4 2025 to strengthen Langkawi’s position as one of Malaysia’s most iconic destinations. Building on the Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme and the recent Malaysia Airlines Trade Elevation Summit, the partnership will drive international arrivals and highlight Langkawi’s unique status as a UNESCO Global Geopark.  

The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to sustainable tourism growth, with Langkawi promoted as the Jewel of Kedah on the global stage ahead of VMY2026.  

Sarawak Tourism Board (STB)

Through the partnership with STB, Malaysia Airlines will be extending its BST programme to include Kuching, unlocking the gateway to Sarawak’s cultural and natural treasures for international travellers. This targeted move is expected to boost arrivals from long-haul markets, which seek authentic experiences. 

By positioning Sarawak’s rainforests, biodiversity, and living culture on the global travel map, the partnership will not only draw visitors but also channel benefits to local communities, reinforcing Sarawak as a unique and competitive destination ahead of VMY2026. 

Reignwood Icons of Football returns in 2026

BANGKOK, 18 September 2025: Icons Series is back as the Reignwood Icons of Football will once again take over Bangkok from 31 January to 1 February 2026.

Set against the backdrop of the Robinswood Golf Course, 24 iconic former footballers, made up of Champions League, Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and World Cup winners, will trade football boots for golf clubs in an unforgettable showdown.

Two teams of 12, representing Team England and Team World, will compete across a fast-paced 10-hole format, delivering drama, rivalry, and spectacle from the first tee shot to the last putt. 

Broadcast globally, fans will be able to follow every moment live on multiple platforms, while those in Bangkok can experience it all in person.

This next chapter will see Team England and Team World renew their rivalry on the golf course in a team matchplay format, with two blockbuster names already confirmed for each side:

Team England: Chelsea’s John Terry, the superstar captain who lifted every significant domestic honour, returns alongside Arsenal icon Theo Walcott, one of the Premier League’s fastest and most exciting forwards. Both were key figures in England’s emphatic victory last year.

Team World: The magician Gianfranco Zola, adored by fans for his artistry and flair, joins forces with Argentina’s all-time great Gabriel Batistuta, one of the most feared strikers of his generation. Together, they aim to swing the momentum back in Team World’s favour.

Captains and further players will be revealed in the coming weeks, but the stage is already set for a rivalry that promises to be even fiercer than last year.

John Terry (Team England): “Lifting the Icons Trophy with Team England last year was special, but now the target is on our backs. I can’t wait to get back out there and defend the title. It’s competitive, it’s fun, and it’s like nothing else I’ve ever played in.”

Theo Walcott (Team England): “The whole experience was unbelievable. Reignwood Icons of Football is a proper event. To represent Team England again in Bangkok, in front of a global audience, is something I’m buzzing for.”

Gianfranco Zola (Team World): “Football gave us rivalries that defined careers, and now Icons brings those rivalries to golf. Last year was just a taste. In 2026, we’ll be sharper, stronger, and I can promise Team World will come back fighting. England may have bragging rights for now, but history won’t repeat itself.”

Gabriel Batistuta (Team World): “To play with and against these legends again is a privilege, but make no mistake, we’re here to win. Team World is coming back stronger.”

Icons Series CEO Thomas Brookes commented: “After the success of the first Icons of Football event in Asia in March 2025, we are delighted to be returning to Reignwood Park, Bangkok, for an even bigger and more compelling event in 2026. This is a great opportunity for Thai football and golf fans to enjoy a unique fan experience, getting up close to their icons surrounded by an incredible festival of food and live entertainment. The event will again be broadcast to over 100 countries around the world, showcasing Thailand as a truly world-class host destination of sport and entertainment.”

Reignwood Group CEO Woraphanit Ruayrungruang noted: “Supporting the Reignwood Icons of Football 2026 is another great source of pride for Reignwood Park, following last year’s success where we played a key role in setting new benchmarks for sports and entertainment in Asia. This year, we are ready to deliver an even greater and more complete experience for fans, athletes, and partners from around the world.”Ticket sales for the Reignwood Icons of Football 2026 opened on 1 September 2025 at www.icons-series.com.

Spain hosts influencers to check six routes

SINGAPORE, 18 September 2025: Spain’s national tourism agency Turespaña is launching a new promotional initiative from 19 to 25 October 19 2025 that will host international journalists and influencers from six key markets — the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the US, Canada, and Latin America. 

The project will explore the heart of Spain on six routes that strike the perfect balance between nature, culture, gastronomy, and slow experiences. 

Photo credit: Turespaña.

Turespaña Director General Miguel Sanz, in a letter to international travel trade professionals, said “the collective initiative recruited support from Paradores de Turismo, 10 autonomous communities and towns and villages that strive to unearth an off-the-beaten-track, lesser-known, and truly inspiring Spain.”

The six routes span 10 Spanish regions and focus on small inland towns and villages, many of which are part of ‘The Most Beautiful Villages in Spain’ network. 

“They seek to immerse participants in the soul of our destinations: strolls in the heart of nature, getting a glimpse into how artisans work, show cooking, historical trails, not to mention sensory experiences that go far beyond what the eye can see. It offers a slower, more mindful way to travel, forging a deep connection with the local region,” Sanz explained.

The project will conclude with a debriefing gathering between all six groups at the Parador de La Granja de San Ildefonso in Segovia, where participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences and insights. 

“This symbolic gathering will highlight the richness of our country and the transformative power of a tourism model that focuses on the local, the emotional, and the authentic.

Spain is (much) more has been conceived as an ever-evolving platform to showcase the best of Spain’s inland tourism on the international stage, as well as giving professionals from source markets the opportunity to rediscover the exhilarating side of Spain in a new light,” said Sanz.

(Source: Turespaña)

Japan tops Golden Week searches

SINGAPORE, 18 September 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda reveals a rise in travel interest among Chinese travellers during Golden Week, with a 26% increase in interest for both domestic and international journeys based on travel searches. 

Celebrated from 1 to 8 October, Golden Week marks the last long holiday of the year for Chinese travellers, offering a prime opportunity for extended travel and exploration.

Photo credit: Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau (https://en.osaka-info.jp/). Osaka Castle Museum.

This year, Japan has captured the imagination of Chinese travellers, with Osaka leading the charge as the top destination, with a 101% increase in travel interest. The allure of Japan’s cultural richness and urban excitement is undeniable, as Tokyo, Bali, Seoul, and Kyoto round out the top five international destinations this year. These destinations highlight the appeal of urban cityscapes, like Tokyo and Seoul, alongside island getaways, like Bali, for Chinese travellers looking to venture abroad this holiday period.

Domestically, the travel spirit is equally strong. Many travellers opt to explore within China, seeking the comfort of familiar surroundings while enjoying the convenience of staying close to home. Beijing, Shanghai, Sanya, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou emerged as the top picks, whether going home for family reunions or embarking on new adventures. Notably, Sanya and Shenzhen are experiencing the most growth, with travel interest increasing 51% and 42% year on year, respectively. Sanya stands out for its white-sand beaches, clear blue waters and tropical climate, while Shenzhen attracts visitors with its modern skyline and vibrant shopping scene.

Agoda Regional Director North Asia Jay Lee shared, “Golden Week is one of the most significant travel periods in Asia, and it’s great to see Chinese travellers making the most of their last long holiday of the year to explore Japan and other parts of Asia. Agoda is here to make these journeys seamless, offering a vast array of options to suit every traveller’s needs during this special holiday.”

Explora Journeys head for Asia in 2027

SINGAPORE, 18 September 2025: Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, has unveiled its 2027–2028 Journeys Collection, an expansive portfolio of experiences across five continents. 

At the heart of the collection is the brand’s inaugural Journeys through Asia, opening a new chapter of discovery. The 2027-2028 season will also welcome the debut of Explora V, the fifth ship in the fleet, which will begin cruises in the Mediterranean before continuing east to the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula.

Photo credit: MSC. Asia will take centre stage as EXPLORA III embarks on the brand’s first-ever Journeys through the region.

Sailing from September 2027 to May 2028, the Collection includes close to 100 Journeys visiting 59 countries and nearly 200 destinations. With deeper regional immersion, seamless cultural discovery and extensive overnight stays, the 2027–2028 season reaffirms Explora Journeys’ vision of transforming luxury ocean travel into a more purposeful, enriching experience.

A new chapter in Asia

Asia will take centre stage as Explora III embarks on the brand’s first-ever Journeys through the region. Over the course of 28 immersive Journeys, the ship will visit 47 destinations across Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore – each one a maiden call. These Journeys have been meticulously crafted to showcase the profound diversity and layered heritage of Asia, from its luminous cities to its spiritual heartlands and coastal sanctuaries.

With overnight stays in Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Naha (Japan), Ha Long Bay (Vietnam), Ho Chi Minh City and Bali, guests will have the time and space to engage with local life in greater depth. From autumn’s blaze of maple and ginkgo trees in Kyoto to spring’s ethereal cherry blossoms in Shimizu and Nagoya in Japan, the Journeys align with Asia’s most evocative seasons. The itineraries will also coincide with major cultural events, including Chinese Golden Week in Shanghai and Chinese New Year celebrations onboard in January 2028 – marked with themed entertainment and traditional festivities.

UN Tourism: Make tourism inclusive

SINGAPORE, 17 September 2025: UN Tourism Calls on G20 Tourism Ministers to step up collaboration and make tourism a driver of inclusion.

The UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili has stressed that “strengthening multilateralism through tourism will deliver results in socio-economic inclusion, sustainable development, peace and understanding”.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili addresses G2O Tourism Ministers at Kruger National Park, South Africa.

Addressing G20 Tourism Ministers at their summit in Kruger National Park, South Africa, he commended the South African Presidency’s focus on inclusion and sustainability. “More than a motto, the theme for South Africa’s G20 Presidency, ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability’, reminds us that equality and sustainability can only be achieved through targeted policies, unified efforts and mutual support among countries — a recognition that in an interconnected world, the challenges faced by one country can have ripple effects globally, “he said.

The G20 Tourism Ministers Meeting focused on the four priorities of South Africa’s Presidency:

  • Enhancing Travel and Tourism Startups and MSMEs through Digital Innovations;
  • Tourism Financing and Investment to enhance equality and sustainable development;
  • Air connectivity for seamless travel;
  • Enhanced resilience for inclusive, sustainable tourism development.

As international tourism continues to grow, international tourist arrivals increased 5% in the first half of 2025, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer. 

Pololikashvili reaffirmed the critical importance of progressing digital transformation, financing for development, investment and resilient ecosystems in tourism, stressing that there will be no resilience without sustainability. 

He called for supporting innovation and stressed that emerging technologies can transform tourism MSMEs, which are the backbone of tourism, but only with adequate financing and programmes to close the digital divide and promote inclusion.

Tourism is vital for developing countries

Focusing on financing for development, he noted that though “for many developing countries, including Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States, tourism is a major source of employment, foreign exchange and tax revenues. Yet, the sector continues to be overlooked as a tool for development, with the total Official Development Assistance disbursements for tourism remaining below 0.11% of total ODA.”

Closing his presentation, Pololikashvili highlighted South Africa’s G20 Presidency as a show of the continent’s leadership in the global agenda. He recalled that Africa is home to 19% of the world’s population, with 70% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa under the age of 30. 

“The opportunities the continent offers in tourism are many,” he said. “Unlocking tourism investment and development for jobs and inclusion is a core priority of the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa.”

The G20 economies represent around 70% of all international tourist arrivals and exports worldwide and 83% of the world’s tourism’s global GDP. The sector accounted directly for 3.1% of the GDP of the G20 (2023), 5% of all exports of the group and 23% of all its service exports (2024). 

Thomas Cook India rolls out ‘TC Pay’

MUMBAI, 17 September 2025: Thomas Cook (India) Ltd, A multi-channel foreign exchange service provider, has launched TC Pay, a comprehensive forex app designed for today’s mobile-first Indian traveller. 

Built on a foundation of digital innovation, TC Pay offers a one-stop forex solution for B2C customers, whether it’s buying or reloading forex cards, buying or selling currencies or sending international remittances.

With an intuitive interface and powerful features like end-to-end digital fulfilment, all-in-one forex card management, real-time card tracking and WhatsApp calling for instant support, TC Pay delivers an elevated user experience with simple, swift and secure forex services through its tech-enabled, mobile-first platform.

Mobile apps have emerged as the preferred gateway for financial transactions globally, with mobile-based remittances accounting for 60% of all digital transfers (Visa report). 

In India, this shift aligns with a broader digital payments revolution — over 93% of consumers use digital payment methods, and nine out of 10 manage at least one financial task online (Mastercard New Payments Index). Against this backdrop, Thomas Cook’s innovative launch of TC Pay marks a strategic leap in its digital-first journey, creating a comprehensive, mobile-first ecosystem that reimagines the way foreign exchange services are delivered.

TC Pay features

End-to-end digital fulfilment: Aligns with Thomas Cook’s consumer-centric Ghar Baithe Forex offering convenience with the security of digital transactions.

Buy and reload forex cards, send international remittances (including student fees or transfers to family abroad), and make secure payments — all digitally.
Smart navigation and “save for future use” features reduce transaction time by at least 30%.

All-in-One Card Management: Easily view card statements, manage card controls – set limits, block a card – all from a single, intuitive interface.

Virtual Card: Access a virtual card instantly for seamless and secure digital payments.

Multi-Currency Wallet: Load and manage up to 12 global currencies, offering flexibility and savings on cross-currency fluctuations when travelling abroad.

Thomas Cook (India) Limited Executive Vice President – Foreign Exchange Deepesh Varma said: “With their growing need for speed, security and simplicity, our pivot to digital solutions is already witnessing strong adoption with an approximate growth of 2.5 times in our Forex by WhatsApp transactions; and an overall 40% increase across our digital channels.”

This digital-first transformation enables Thomas Cook India to extend its footprint beyond physical branches, unlocking opportunities in new and underserved markets through a strong, scalable digital presence.