3 Big Wins for Young Entrepreneurs at the 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge

Group photo of participants and judges at the 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge in Singapore, showcasing diverse students and mentors, with a banner in the background highlighting the event.

The 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge (ITC) has wrapped up in Singapore, spotlighting Asia Pacific’s brightest young minds in entrepreneurship. Out of more than 4,700 hopefuls from nine markets, only 54 students reached the finals.

Their mission: pitch a market entry strategy for an eco-friendly product made from upcycled textiles targeting France. The results brought not just innovation but also pride for the Philippines, with one Filipino student making it to the top three.

Here are the standout highlights:

1. Team Spicy Noodles takes first place
Jamie Smith (Republic of Korea) and Kathy Nguyen (Vietnam) stole the show with their creative upcycling brand. Their idea transforms discarded textiles into custom embroidered artwork, a concept that wowed judges for its sustainability and artistic appeal.

2. Filipino talent shines with Team Innovement
Janelle Anika S. Tan from the Philippines teamed up with Royden So from Hong Kong SAR. Together, they impressed the panel with a smart wall panel design crafted from textile waste. Their runner-up finish marked a proud moment for the Philippines in this global challenge.

3. Solar-powered vision from Team ReTex
Thailand’s Panasarn Traithavil and Vietnam’s Lan Anh Phan secured the other runner-up spot with their concept of solar panels created with upcycled textiles. Their pitch showed how renewable energy and sustainable materials can work hand in hand.

Beyond the awards, FedEx announced that winners will get a rare behind-the-scenes experience: visiting FedEx operations in their home markets. This mentorship aims to give them practical insights into supply chain management and global trade.

For nearly 20 years, the FedEx/JA ITC has introduced over 50,000 students across Asia Pacific to the world of entrepreneurship and international trade. This year’s competition proved once again that the region’s youth are ready to innovate, collaborate across cultures, and lead the way toward a more sustainable future.