Filipino student secures victory in the 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Competition
In Singapore, the 19th edition of the FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge (ITC) took place, blending classroom learning with real-world problem-solving. Co-organised by Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) and Junior Achievement (JA), the competition saw the participation of over 4,700 students from nine markets across the region.
The competition aimed to develop a market entry strategy for an eco-friendly product that upcycles discarded textiles into sustainable consumer goods, with France as the target market. The students worked in cross-border pairs to pitch their strategies before a panel of seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders.
One of the standout teams was Team Spicy Noodles, composed of Jamie Smith from the Republic of Korea and Kathy Nguyen from Vietnam. They impressed judges with their eco-friendly upcycling brand that transforms discarded textiles into custom embroidered artwork. Another team, Team Innovement, comprising Filipino student Janelle Anika S. Tan and Hong Kong SAR's Royden So, proposed a sustainable smart wall panel made from discarded textile waste.
Team ReTex, with Thailand's Panasarn Traithavil and Vietnam's Lan Anh Phan, presented a solar-powered solution integrating upcycled materials. The exercise tested the students' entrepreneurial acumen and underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity and collaboration in today's interconnected economy.
Kawal Preet, president of Asia Pacific at FedEx, expressed pride in championing the FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge. He highlighted that the challenge invests in the future of commerce, aiming for a more connected, sustainable, and globally adept trade landscape. Kawal Preet asserted that the FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge uniquely equips students to navigate the complexities of global trade.
The FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge has introduced over 50,000 students across Asia Pacific to business, economics, and international trade. It inspires students to approach global challenges with creativity and purpose. Kawal Preet emphasized that the challenge fosters creativity, determination, and a global mindset in students, preparing them to be at the forefront of transforming innovation and building smarter, more resilient supply chains.
In his 2025 statement, Kawal Preet highlighted FedEx's commitment to sustainability, mentioning the expansion of their electric vehicle fleet and renewable energy initiatives to create a more sustainable and inclusive future in the region. While there was no direct quote or statement from him specifically related to the 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge, the challenge was supported by FedEx to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs across Asia Pacific.
Two runner-up teams were also highlighted, but no specific details about them were provided. The winning team in the competition was Team Spicy Noodles, composed of Jamie Smith from the Republic of Korea and Kathy Nguyen from Vietnam.
The FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge continues to be a beacon of innovation and sustainability, nurturing the next generation of business leaders who will shape a more connected and resilient world.
