
China's first Legoland opens to tourists in Shanghai
Thousands of local tourists poured into China's first-ever Legoland as it opened its gates in Shanghai on Saturday, the latest theme park hoping to capitalise on a domestic tourism boom.
Article content
The Chinese branch of the British-owned theme park franchise is the biggest Legoland in the world.
Article content
Article content
It drew in early customers who flocked to attractions including a miniature train ride and a dragon-themed rollercoaster.
Article content
Article content
'I personally love to play with Lego blocks and we have many sets at home… so I wanted to come to Legoland at the earliest opportunity,' said Shi, a 35-year-old resident of nearby city Hangzhou, who was visiting the park with his wife and child.
Article content
Article content
Despite the Chinese economy's sluggish growth in recent years, domestic tourist spending grew 18.6 percent in the first quarter of this year compared to the previous year, according to statistics.
Article content
'Ever since the pandemic, I've made very few trips abroad,' said Shi, adding his family now travels to theme parks around China 'many times a year'.
Article content
Eager Lego fans rushed into the park as soon as it opened, wearing themed shirts and waving branded flags as they enjoyed the 318,000-square-metre (78.5-acre) compound in scorching temperatures.
Article content
Beijing has announced subsidies intended to make travelling within the country more affordable for Chinese citizens, and is pushing local governments to heavily market their attractions on social media.
Article content
Article content
Companies have taken note of the wider local tourism boom and stepped up their plans in China.
Article content
Article content
A new 'Spider-Man' attraction at Shanghai Disneyland broke ground in May, while Warner Brothers is set to open a Harry Potter experience in Shanghai by 2027.
Article content
Toy giant Hasbro said this week its giant Peppa Pig park in the city was now 'in the phase of creative design.'
Article content
Chinese collectable toy maker Pop Mart has also opened an attraction in Beijing featuring life-sized versions of its popular Labubu toys.
Article content
'The various provinces are putting a lot of effort into expanding their tourism industries, and all of them have special attractions,' said Xu, a 34-year-old parent visiting Legoland on Saturday with his children.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Toronto Star
an hour ago
- Toronto Star
Canada's grocery code of conduct is finally gaining traction — and shoppers could see new products as a result
Some of the biggest names in the food business have formally signed onto Canada's new grocery code of conduct, a major milestone in a years-long push to impose more rules on big grocers and stamp out bully tactics in the industry. Karen Proud, the watchdog appointed to enforce the code, said 20 manufacturers and retailers had signed on as of Monday. The list includes French yoghurt giant Danone and Unilever, the British multinational behind brands like Ben and Jerry's ice cream, Dove soap and Hellmann's mayonnaise. Sobeys' parent company Empire and dairy processor Lactalis registered as the first members last week, though Proud isn't planning a real recruitment campaign until the fall.


Cision Canada
2 hours ago
- Cision Canada
Mitrex Sets Guinness World Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential
TORONTO, July 8, 2025 /CNW/ - Mitrex, North America's leading manufacturer of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), proudly announces that its transformative SunRise Residential project in Edmonton, Alberta, has earned the Guinness World Record for the largest solar panel mural globally. This landmark project showcases Mitrex's innovative BIPV solar panels, blending cutting-edge solar technology with vibrant cultural artistry to redefine sustainable architecture. Revolutionizing Sustainable Architecture with BIPV Spanning over 30,000 square feet, the Mitrex eFacade PRO plus BIPV with system capacity of over 265 kW of clean, renewable energy, powering a significant portion of SunRise Residential's operations. Designed by acclaimed Indigenous artist Lance Cardinal, the stunning solar mural integrates Indigenous and Chinese symbolism, celebrating Edmonton's diverse cultural heritage. This fusion of BIPV technology and art transforms an aging high-rise into a beacon of sustainability, cultural pride, and urban revitalization. Mitrex's proprietary BIPV solar panels embed high-efficiency solar cells within customizable, visually striking designs. Each panel generates electricity to lower operational costs while contributing to a vibrant mural that reflects local diversity. The project reduces 150 tons of CO2 emissions annually, supporting Alberta's clean energy goals and delivering long-term savings for building owners and tenants. A Global Leader in BIPV Innovation "This project is a bold vision for the future of sustainable architecture," said Danial Hadizadeh, CEO of Mitrex. "SunRise proves that BIPV solar solutions can produce clean energy, cut emissions, and inspire communities with culturally resonant designs. We're honored to lead this revolution." The Guinness World Record for "Largest Solar Panel Mural" highlights Mitrex's expertise in scalable, high-performance BIPV systems. Manufactured at Mitrex's advanced facility in Ontario, Canada, the eFacade PRO plus panels balance energy efficiency, aesthetic versatility, and affordability, making BIPV accessible for architects, developers, and builders worldwide. Seamless Integration for BIPV Adoption Mitrex collaborated with Avenue Living Asset Management, MBC Group, and Chandos Construction to bring this visionary BIPV project to life. The use of standard, industry-compatible installation systems ensured seamless integration into existing construction workflows, eliminating the need for specialized methods. This approach reduces costs and complexity, positioning Mitrex's BIPV solutions as a practical choice for urban retrofits and new developments. A Cultural and Environmental Milestone The SunRise Residential project is more than a BIPV innovation —it's a cultural landmark. Lance Cardinal's mural transforms the building into a vibrant canvas, fostering community pride and connection in Edmonton. By revitalizing an outdated high-rise, the project showcases how BIPV solar panels can elevate urban aesthetics while advancing sustainability. Aligned with global decarbonization goals, Mitrex's BIPV technology generates on-site power, reduces emissions, and enhances building design. The SunRise project proves that BIPV systems are both functional and inspiring, offering energy savings and aesthetic value for sustainable cities. Shaping the Future with BIPV The SunRise Residential project is a stepping stone for Mitrex's mission to drive global BIPV adoption. By empowering architects and developers to create self-sustaining buildings, Mitrex is redefining urban landscapes with solar-integrated facades that combine clean energy, bold design, and cultural significance. Discover more about the SunRise Residential project and Mitrex's BIPV solutions at Mitrex, headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, is North America's premier manufacturer of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV). Committed to accessible sustainable architecture, Mitrex designs BIPV solar panels that merge energy generation with aesthetic versatility, enabling buildings to become self-sustaining without compromising design or affordability.


The Market Online
4 hours ago
- The Market Online
Tungsten and molybdenum for the US military and Elon Musk: Why Almonty's NASDAQ listing could provide the next boost
This article is presented in partnership with Apaton Finance GmbH. It is a sponsored communication intended to inform investors and should not be taken as a recommendation or financial advice. Tungsten is harder than steel and only melts at 3,422 degrees – no wonder it is used in rockets, industrial robots, semiconductors, and many other high-tech applications. However, 84% of the world's critical metal comes from China, which poses a strategic risk to the West. Since the Chinese government imposed export restrictions, there has been significant upheaval. This is where Almonty Industries (TSX:AII) comes in. With mines in South Korea, Portugal, and Spain, the Company is building the largest independent tungsten pipeline outside China. For investors, Almonty is thus becoming a lever for raw material independence. Current developments June 2025 marked the next milestone for the Company. Its inclusion in the S&P/TSX Global Mining Index catapulted Almonty (TSX:AII) into the circle of established mining giants. CEO Lewis Black commented: ' This recognition underscores the continued execution of our strategy and Almonty's growing importance as a leading supplier of tungsten for the defense needs of the US and its allies .' After 12 years of development work, the plant will start production in the second half of 2025. The plant is considered the 'most advanced tungsten processing facility outside of China' – a technological advantage that enables significant cost savings. On July 4, the Company announced that an updated NI 43-101 study for the Sangdong Mine had been submitted. When fully ramped up, the production facility is expected to process approximately 640,000 tons of ore per year. Later, capacity could even increase to up to 1.2 million tons through expansion in Phase 2. The share underwent a reverse stock split at a ratio of 3:2, which means that 3 old shares were combined into 2 new shares, and the value of the share increased. This secures the NASDAQ listing. This listing will further increase the Company's visibility and give ETFs the opportunity to include the stock in their portfolios. For many Americans, stocks only become interesting when they are traded in the US. The mines and their advantages While Sangdong symbolizes the future, the Portuguese Panasqueira mine has been generating operating cash flow since 1896. It processes 700,000–800,000 tons of ore annually and, according to a visit report by Stockhouse, is one of the oldest continuously operated tungsten mines in the world. In South Korea, Almonty is drawing on its experience in Europe to plan the plant accordingly. At USD 110–120 per metric ton unit (MTU), production costs in Sangdong are significantly lower than those of Chinese state-owned mines, which range from USD 205 to USD 245 per MTU. This cost advantage results from the high-grade ore and optimized processing. Both are key factors for future margins. In addition, the property also has large molybdenum deposits. South Korea also scores highly in terms of taxation. As a 'Foreign Investment Zone,' Almonty pays no corporate income tax for three years, after which it pays only 12.5% instead of the standard 25%. Analysts expect revenue to jump in the coming quarters as Sangdong's ramp-up curve takes effect. Strategic importance and geopolitical context The facts speak for themselves: China has been curbing exports for months, while the US defense industry is desperately searching for alternatives. Almonty is supplying them and is now being courted by politicians. First, the Company's headquarters were relocated to the US. Then, the board of directors was gradually strengthened with the addition of high-ranking names. The first was retired General Gustave F. Perna, followed by the appointment of Alan Estevez, former Assistant Secretary for Security at the US Department of Commerce. Estevez is considered an expert in logistics and, like Perna, has contacts in the Pentagon. In addition, a strategic partnership was established with American Defense International, and Almonty was invited to join the Critical Metals Forum. All these measures have had an effect. A letter from the US Congressional Committee to Almonty highlighted the importance of Sangdong. In addition, the committee expressed interest in further cooperation, particularly as a supplier to the US defense industry. Contracts and market leverage The strategic position translates into concrete contracts: There has long been a purchase agreement with the Plansee Group, which stipulates a minimum price of USD 235 per MTU. This year, a purchase agreement was signed with Tungsten Parts Wyoming and Metal Tech, stipulating a minimum monthly purchase of 40 tons of tungsten oxide. A fixed minimum price has also been agreed here. The oxide is intended explicitly for US defense projects. 100% of molybdenum production has been secured by SpaceX supplier SeAH M&S from South Korea. Here, the minimum price is USD 19 per pound. At the same time, Almonty is pushing ahead with vertical integration. The Company plans to build its own tungsten smelter by 2027. In addition, a production facility for tungsten oxide is planned. This will enable the Company to bypass Chinese processing monopolies and increase its margins. Outlook and analyst opinions Analysts at GBC have recently raised Almonty's target price to CAD 5.50 (before the reverse split). Due to its exceptional position, Almonty has become a geopolitical infrastructure provider. The forecast was raised based on expected annual revenue growth of 45% and profit growth of 55.8% from 2026 onwards. The demand base is growing rather than shrinking. The demand for tungsten for electric vehicle batteries is expected to grow by 300% by 2030 (source: British Geological Survey), while the US military budget is projected to increase by 12% in 2026. NATO has also provided tailwinds with an arms budget of 5% of gross domestic product. The share is currently trading at CAD 7.19. Chart of Almonty Industries as of July 7, 2025. Source: Refinitiv Almonty Industries is positioning itself as an indispensable tungsten supplier to the West – strategically, cost-efficiently, and politically desirable. With the state-of-the-art Sangdong mine (starting in H2 2025), the Company is not only building the largest independent pipeline outside China, but also leveraging clear competitive advantages: Cost dominance : Production at USD 110–120/MTU and tax advantages. : Production at USD 110–120/MTU and tax advantages. Geopolitical relevance : US defense contracts, high-ranking board members, and inclusion in the S&P/TSX Global Mining Index underscore the Company's systemic importance. : US defense contracts, high-ranking board members, and inclusion in the S&P/TSX Global Mining Index underscore the Company's systemic importance. Growth drivers: NASDAQ listing, vertical integration, long-term off-take agreements, and doubling of capacity by 2027. With the boom in demand for tungsten and Western de-risking strategies, Almonty is more than just a mining operator. It is a geopolitical infrastructure provider with leverage. Conflict of interest Pursuant to §85 of the German Securities Trading Act (WpHG), we point out that Apaton Finance GmbH as well as partners, authors or employees of Apaton Finance GmbH (hereinafter referred to as 'Relevant Persons') currently hold or hold shares or other financial instruments of the aforementioned companies and speculate on their price developments. In this respect, they intend to sell or acquire shares or other financial instruments of the companies (hereinafter each referred to as a 'Transaction'). Transactions may thereby influence the respective price of the shares or other financial instruments of the Company. In this respect, there is a concrete conflict of interest in the reporting on the companies. In addition, Apaton Finance GmbH is active in the context of the preparation and publication of the reporting in paid contractual this reason, there is also a concrete conflict of interest. The above information on existing conflicts of interest applies to all types and forms of publication used by Apaton Finance GmbH for publications on companies. Risk notice Apaton Finance GmbH offers editors, agencies and companies the opportunity to publish commentaries, interviews, summaries, news and the like on These contents are exclusively for the information of the readers and do not represent any call to action or recommendations, neither explicitly nor implicitly they are to be understood as an assurance of possible price developments. The contents do not replace individual expert investment advice and do not constitute an offer to sell the discussed share(s) or other financial instruments, nor an invitation to buy or sell such. The content is expressly not a financial analysis, but a journalistic or advertising text. Readers or users who make investment decisions or carry out transactions on the basis of the information provided here do so entirely at their own risk. No contractual relationship is established between Apaton Finance GmbH and its readers or the users of its offers, as our information only refers to the company and not to the investment decision of the reader or user. The acquisition of financial instruments involves high risks, which can lead to the total loss of the invested capital. The information published by Apaton Finance GmbH and its authors is based on careful research. Nevertheless, no liability is assumed for financial losses or a content-related guarantee for the topicality, correctness, appropriateness and completeness of the content provided here. Please also note our Terms of use. Stockhouse does not provide investment advice or recommendations. All investment decisions should be made based on your own research and consultation with a registered investment professional. The issuer is solely responsible for the accuracy of the information contained herein.