NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African women at higher risk of pre-eclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Annettee Nakimuli, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Makerere University

    Pre-eclampsia is a danger to pregnant women. It’s a complication characterised by high blood pressure and organ damage, arising during the second half of pregnancy, in labour or in the first week after delivery.

    It plays a major role in about 16% of the deaths of pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa.

    And it’s on the rise: between 2010 and 2018, the incidence of pre-eclampsia in Africa jumped by around 20%.

    Pre-eclampsia usually occurs in young mothers during a first pregnancy. Girls under the age of 18 years are most at risk. The probability that a 15-year-old girl will die from complications of pregnancy is one in 150 in developing countries, versus one in 3,800 in developed countries, according to the World Health Organization.

    Not only does pre-eclampsia pose a serious health threat to women, it also harms babies. It contributes to stillbirth, preterm birth and low birth weight.

    Yet we still do not know enough about pre-eclampsia. This gap has driven my research into the disease.

    I conducted the first genetic case-control study on pre-eclampsia among African women in comparison to European women over a decade ago for my PhD research.

    My work revealed that both African and European populations have a gene (KIR AA genotype) that increases the chance of pre-eclampsia. However, African women are at greater risk of pre-eclampsia than other racial groups. This is because they’re more at risk of carrying a fetus with a C2-type HLA-C gene from the father. African populations have a higher frequency of this gene, which raises the likelihood of risky mother-fetus combinations.

    An additional finding from my research is that genetic protection from pre-eclampsia works differently across populations – and African populations carry unique protective genes. However, even with these additional protections, African women are at greater risk of developing severe pre-eclampsia due to the other challenges, like access to healthcare and socio-economic constraints.

    There’s inequality in the treatment of the condition too. In my experience, wealthier and better-educated African women often receive the necessary diagnosis and treatment. Poorer and less-educated African women too often do not.

    Pre-eclampsia research, especially in Africa, requires a lot more funding, as does broader research related to the maternal health of African women.

    Pre-eclampsia in Uganda

    Around 287,000 women worldwide die during pregnancy and childbirth every year. Shockingly, 70% of these are African women.

    Most of these deaths are preventable. For example, around 10% are the result of high blood pressure-related conditions during pregnancy.

    Uganda’s Ministry of Health recorded in 2023 that out of 1,276 maternal deaths reported, 16% were associated with high blood pressure.

    Hospitals are being overwhelmed by patients with the illness. For example, Kawempe National Referral Hospital in Kampala receives around 150 patients with the condition every month. It has set up a special ward to treat them.

    The maternal mortality rate (death due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth) in Uganda is 284 per 100,000 live births. In Australia it is 2.94. The neonatal mortality rate (death during the first 28 completed days of life) is 19 per 1,000 live births in Uganda against 2.37 in Australia. Infant mortality (death before a child turns one) is 31 per 1,000 live births in Uganda versus 3.7 in Australia, according to the WHO’s Global Health Observatory.

    This stark contrast highlights an enormous gap in care that the two countries’ pregnant mothers and babies receive.

    Part of the problem in Uganda, as in many developing countries, is persistent challenges in healthcare infrastructure. There are shortages of healthcare workers, medical supplies and facilities, particularly in the rural areas.

    Early detection is key

    As a clinician and researcher working at the centre of Uganda’s healthcare system, I witness mothers arriving at hospitals already in a critical condition, with limited options to treat the complications associated with pre-eclampsia. It is heartbreaking.

    The condition is both preventable and treatable if caught early. My research focuses on identifying biological signs of the likelihood of complications during pregnancy, using data analysis informed by Artificial Intelligence.

    These predictive biomarkers, as they are called, enable us to categorise patients based on their risk levels and identify those most likely to benefit from specific treatments or preventive measures.

    The precise causes of pre-eclampsia are not certain, but factors beyond genetics are thought to be problems with the immune system and inadequate development of the placenta. But much of what researchers know comes from work done in high-income countries, often with a limited sample size of African women.

    Consequently, the findings may not apply directly to the genetics of sub-Saharan African women. My research addresses this knowledge gap.

    Building on my findings about genetic determinants, I am leading a research team at Makerere University to design interventions tailored to specific prevention and treatment strategies for African populations.

    Raising pre-eclampsia awareness

    Research alone is not enough. There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between research and practice.

    During my fieldwork, I have witnessed first-hand how many Ugandan women are not aware of pre-eclampsia’s warning signs and miss out on vital prenatal care. These warning signs often include headache, disturbances with vision, upper pain in the right side of the abdomen and swelling of the legs.

    But we can develop screening algorithms so that healthcare professionals can rapidly diagnose women at higher risk early in their pregnancy. Timely intervention, including specific treatment and plans for delivery, would reduce the risk of adverse outcomes for both mother and baby.

    In my capacity as a national pre-eclampsia champion appointed by Uganda’s Ministry of Health, I am spearheading initiatives to raise awareness and improve access to maternal healthcare services.

    Through community outreach programmes and educational campaigns, we want to empower all women, rich and poor, with knowledge about the condition and encourage them to seek medical assistance at an early stage.

    More resources must be allocated to genetics research to realise our goals of prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia and its associated complications.

    This investment will drive the development of predictive technology for precise diagnosis, and enable timely intervention for at-risk mothers.

    Moreover, investigating the genetic roots of pre-eclampsia could lead to novel therapies that reduce the need for costly medical procedures or prolonged care for those affected.

    This would reduce the strain on already overburdened African healthcare systems.

    – African women at higher risk of pre-eclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication
    – https://theconversation.com/african-women-at-higher-risk-of-pre-eclampsia-a-dangerous-pregnancy-complication-249222

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: African women at higher risk of pre-eclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Annettee Nakimuli, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Makerere University

    Pre-eclampsia is a danger to pregnant women. It’s a complication characterised by high blood pressure and organ damage, arising during the second half of pregnancy, in labour or in the first week after delivery.

    It plays a major role in about 16% of the deaths of pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa.

    And it’s on the rise: between 2010 and 2018, the incidence of pre-eclampsia in Africa jumped by around 20%.

    Pre-eclampsia usually occurs in young mothers during a first pregnancy. Girls under the age of 18 years are most at risk. The probability that a 15-year-old girl will die from complications of pregnancy is one in 150 in developing countries, versus one in 3,800 in developed countries, according to the World Health Organization.

    Not only does pre-eclampsia pose a serious health threat to women, it also harms babies. It contributes to stillbirth, preterm birth and low birth weight.

    Yet we still do not know enough about pre-eclampsia. This gap has driven my research into the disease.

    I conducted the first genetic case-control study on pre-eclampsia among African women in comparison to European women over a decade ago for my PhD research.

    My work revealed that both African and European populations have a gene (KIR AA genotype) that increases the chance of pre-eclampsia. However, African women are at greater risk of pre-eclampsia than other racial groups. This is because they’re more at risk of carrying a fetus with a C2-type HLA-C gene from the father. African populations have a higher frequency of this gene, which raises the likelihood of risky mother-fetus combinations.

    An additional finding from my research is that genetic protection from pre-eclampsia works differently across populations – and African populations carry unique protective genes. However, even with these additional protections, African women are at greater risk of developing severe pre-eclampsia due to the other challenges, like access to healthcare and socio-economic constraints.

    There’s inequality in the treatment of the condition too. In my experience, wealthier and better-educated African women often receive the necessary diagnosis and treatment. Poorer and less-educated African women too often do not.

    Pre-eclampsia research, especially in Africa, requires a lot more funding, as does broader research related to the maternal health of African women.

    Pre-eclampsia in Uganda

    Around 287,000 women worldwide die during pregnancy and childbirth every year. Shockingly, 70% of these are African women.

    Most of these deaths are preventable. For example, around 10% are the result of high blood pressure-related conditions during pregnancy.

    Uganda’s Ministry of Health recorded in 2023 that out of 1,276 maternal deaths reported, 16% were associated with high blood pressure.

    Hospitals are being overwhelmed by patients with the illness. For example, Kawempe National Referral Hospital in Kampala receives around 150 patients with the condition every month. It has set up a special ward to treat them.

    The maternal mortality rate (death due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth) in Uganda is 284 per 100,000 live births. In Australia it is 2.94. The neonatal mortality rate (death during the first 28 completed days of life) is 19 per 1,000 live births in Uganda against 2.37 in Australia. Infant mortality (death before a child turns one) is 31 per 1,000 live births in Uganda versus 3.7 in Australia, according to the WHO’s Global Health Observatory.

    This stark contrast highlights an enormous gap in care that the two countries’ pregnant mothers and babies receive.

    Part of the problem in Uganda, as in many developing countries, is persistent challenges in healthcare infrastructure. There are shortages of healthcare workers, medical supplies and facilities, particularly in the rural areas.

    Early detection is key

    As a clinician and researcher working at the centre of Uganda’s healthcare system, I witness mothers arriving at hospitals already in a critical condition, with limited options to treat the complications associated with pre-eclampsia. It is heartbreaking.

    The condition is both preventable and treatable if caught early. My research focuses on identifying biological signs of the likelihood of complications during pregnancy, using data analysis informed by Artificial Intelligence.

    These predictive biomarkers, as they are called, enable us to categorise patients based on their risk levels and identify those most likely to benefit from specific treatments or preventive measures.

    The precise causes of pre-eclampsia are not certain, but factors beyond genetics are thought to be problems with the immune system and inadequate development of the placenta. But much of what researchers know comes from work done in high-income countries, often with a limited sample size of African women.

    Consequently, the findings may not apply directly to the genetics of sub-Saharan African women. My research addresses this knowledge gap.

    Building on my findings about genetic determinants, I am leading a research team at Makerere University to design interventions tailored to specific prevention and treatment strategies for African populations.

    Raising pre-eclampsia awareness

    Research alone is not enough. There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between research and practice.

    During my fieldwork, I have witnessed first-hand how many Ugandan women are not aware of pre-eclampsia’s warning signs and miss out on vital prenatal care. These warning signs often include headache, disturbances with vision, upper pain in the right side of the abdomen and swelling of the legs.

    But we can develop screening algorithms so that healthcare professionals can rapidly diagnose women at higher risk early in their pregnancy. Timely intervention, including specific treatment and plans for delivery, would reduce the risk of adverse outcomes for both mother and baby.

    In my capacity as a national pre-eclampsia champion appointed by Uganda’s Ministry of Health, I am spearheading initiatives to raise awareness and improve access to maternal healthcare services.

    Through community outreach programmes and educational campaigns, we want to empower all women, rich and poor, with knowledge about the condition and encourage them to seek medical assistance at an early stage.

    More resources must be allocated to genetics research to realise our goals of prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia and its associated complications.

    This investment will drive the development of predictive technology for precise diagnosis, and enable timely intervention for at-risk mothers.

    Moreover, investigating the genetic roots of pre-eclampsia could lead to novel therapies that reduce the need for costly medical procedures or prolonged care for those affected.

    This would reduce the strain on already overburdened African healthcare systems.

    Annettee Nakimuli receives funding from the Gates Foundation, GSK and the Royal Society.

    – ref. African women at higher risk of pre-eclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication – https://theconversation.com/african-women-at-higher-risk-of-pre-eclampsia-a-dangerous-pregnancy-complication-249222

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Leads Resolution Designating National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse Leads Resolution Designating National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM) introduced a bipartisan resolution in the House of Representatives to designate May 5, 2025, as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.  

    “The rate of missing and murdered indigenous women cases increase every year, and impacted communities continue to suffer,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Designating May 5 as National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls sheds light on this crisis and serves as a reminder that we must better equip our native communities to solve these devastating cases. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining me on this important issue.” 

    “The U.S. can no longer look away from the pain and injustice endured by Indigenous families whose mothers, daughters, sisters, and relatives have gone missing or been murdered,” said Rep. Leger Fernández. “Honoring the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is one way to bring national attention to this issue. As a nation, we have a moral responsibility to confront this crisis head-on—to honor the lives lost, support the families who continue to grieve, and make sure that Native communities have the resources, authority, and protection they deserve. We must uplift Native voices and invest in services for Indian Country so there are no more stolen sisters and no more stolen joy.” 

    Newhouse and Leger Fernández were joined by Reps. Tom Cole (R-OK), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Ed Case (D-HI), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Kim Schrier (D-WA), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) in introducing the resolution.  

    Rep. Tom Cole, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee said, “For far too long, dangerous predators have disproportionately targeted indigenous women and girls, with violence against Native women greatly exceeding the national average. Ending this crisis starts with awareness. Thanks to the leadership of Rep. Newhouse, this legislation designates May 5th as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which is critical to increasing awareness of this issue and stopping this terrible crisis once and for all.” 

    Rep. Jared Huffman, Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee said, “Although the epidemic of missing Indigenous people spans the country, these tragic crimes are often ignored. Tribal members in my district and across the country have been putting in the hard work on the ground to protect their people – but they can’t do it all alone. We have to shine a light on this crisis, and by designating May 5th as the National Day of Awareness for MMIW, we can call attention to this pervasive issue and get tribal communities the focus and support needed to end this injustice.” 

    Rep. Dusty Johnson said, “Every life is worth fighting for. I’ve worked with South Dakota’s tribal leaders to advocate for additional tribal law enforcement resources and it’s important more than ever to continue focused efforts on our missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. According to the South Dakota Missing Persons Clearinghouse, nearly 60% of all missing persons in South Dakota are Native American. I’m grateful to partner with Rep. Newhouse to bring hope and healing to families across South Dakota.” 

    Rep. Greg Stanton said, “It’s one of our nation’s greatest shames that such violence is perpetuated against Native communities, especially Native women, to this day. By designating May 5 as a National Day of Awareness for MMIP, this resolution honors the many victims and their families while calling on us all to finally end this crisis of violence. I’m proud to reaffirm my commitment to ensuring Native communities have all the necessary resources to seek justice and healing.” 

    Rep. Stephanie Bice said, “I strongly express my support for the designation of May 5th as the ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’. Not only are Indigenous people disproportionately the victims of violence in America, but also in Oklahoma. A study by the Urban Indian Health Institute rated Oklahoma in the top 10 states for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. I’m grateful that my colleague, Congressman Dan Newhouse, introduced this critical legislation. We must continue working to bring awareness to these heartbreaking tragedies so that affected families may find justice.” 

    Rep. Adrian Smith said, “The prevalence of violence against indigenous women and girls is a tragedy which calls for action. I thank Rep. Newhouse for his leadership on this resolution honoring survivors, families, and those we have lost.”

    The legislation is supported by stakeholder groups including the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, the Tulalip Tribes, the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, and the National Congress of American Indians.

    Gerald Lewis, Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council said, “The Yakama Nation appreciates Congressman Newhouse continuously acknowledging the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous people throughout Indian Country. The hardship of having missing and murdered relatives at a regular and increasing rate causes distress for the Yakama Nation and other tribal nations with significant land bases; many times, we lack resources and support to adequately patrol our homelands. Preventative action could assist in combating this issue that continues to engrain generational trauma into our people. To accomplish this, support must be provided to tribal nations’ public safety, law enforcement, and justice systems through legislative action and collaboration from all governing bodies; no matter if they are local or federal. We can work together to bring our people home.” 

    Charlene Tillequots, Yakama Nation Tribal Council, Chair for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Committee said, “Indian Country has dealt with crime and harm against our people for far too long. Today many families grieve the loss of a loved one, with no justice or closure to comfort them, because of shortfalls that obstruct initiatives that could combat this issue. The Yakama Nation and tribes across the United States desperately need resources for safety measures and justice services to protect the communities on our Reservation – this help includes recognition that this needs to be addressed immediately. Congressman Newhouse’s gesture, this resolution, addresses an impediment to Tribal sovereignty and public safety work we face today. We hope to continue making progress for future generations to be in a safer place than we are now – we’re simply aiming, at the very least, to have our family members make it home each night.” 

    Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation said, “The Colville Tribes appreciates and supports the efforts of Rep. Dan Newhouse and others in Congress to keep attention focused on the problem of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. Despite receiving greater attention in recent years, the problem persists as Native women continue to suffer violence at rates much higher than the national average. The Colville Tribes supports the designation of a ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ and continues to support a federal MMIW law enforcement presence specifically dedicated to serve the Pacific Northwest.” 

    Teri Gobin, Chair, Tulalip Tribes said, “Every Native community in the nation has been touched by the epidemic of violence against Native people. Four out of five native women have experienced violence and more than half have been sexually assaulted by their intimate partners. Shining a light on the harm our people have experienced is a step towards fixing it. We urge our lawmakers to continue to fight for more resources for Tribes to create safe communities, including recognizing tribal court jurisdiction over cases that involve violence against our people. On May 5th, we will remember the lives taken too soon. We will drum and sing and cry together. We will pray and advocate. Together, we will build a future with no more stolen sisters” 

    Lucy R. Simpson, Executive Director, The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center said, “The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls serves as a commitment to honor those we have lost, amplify the voices of survivors and families, and address this crisis of violence directly. The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC) sincerely thanks Representatives Newhouse and Leger Fernandez for their ongoing efforts to end violence against Indigenous people. Together, we must continue to seek justice, healing, and meaningful change.”  

    Shannon Holsey, President, NCAI Violence Against Women Task Force Co-Chair said, “May 5th is more than a day of remembrance—it is a call to action. The epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women and relatives is a direct result of systems that have failed to protect us for generations. To end this crisis, we must continue to fully implement the tribal provisions of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and return authority to Tribal Nations to safeguard our people. We must act with urgency and unity to strengthen tribal jurisdiction and invest in Indigenous-led solutions. This starts with strengthening tribal sovereignty, restoring the rightful authority of Tribal Nations to protect our people, and honoring the sacredness of every life stolen. Every Native relative deserves to be safe, seen, and honored.” 

    Full resolution text here. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Trade and Deepen US-Iceland Economic Partnership

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Congressman Greg Murphy (R-N.C.) reintroduced the Iceland Commercial and Economic Leadership for Arctic and National Development (ICELAND) Act. This bipartisan legislation would add Iceland to the list of nations eligible for investment and trade in the U.S—provided that U.S. nationals are treated similarly by the government of Iceland.

    The bill would also make Icelanders eligible for E-1 and E-2 nonimmigrant work visas, which are reserved for nationals of countries with which the U.S. has a treaty of commerce, a qualifying international agreement, or has granted eligibility by statute. Iceland is currently one of the few European countries excluded from these visas.

    “Iceland has long been an important trade partner of the United States—and especially for Maine, where our longstanding shipping and seafood trade with Iceland has fostered deep economic and cultural ties,” said Pingree. “My bipartisan ICELAND Act would strengthen that partnership for generations to come, creating greater economic opportunities for both countries at a time when the global economic order is rapidly shifting. By extending E-1 and E-2 visa eligibility to Icelanders, we’re not only honoring our shared commitments; we’re also investing in the kind of bilateral cooperation that fuels innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term growth in America and in the Arctic region. The ICELAND Act would bring our two countries into closer strategic alignment at a time when such partnerships are more critical than ever.” 

    “As co-chair of the Iceland Caucus, I know the importance of having a strong relationship between the United States and Iceland,” said Murphy. “Iceland serves as an important ally in our common pursuit of democracy and economic security, and this legislation would be a critical step in strengthening the ties between our two nations. The ICELAND Act would increase trade and expand economic opportunities, while also injecting capital into both of our economies.”

    Background:

    In 1944, the United States was the first country to recognize the independent Republic of Iceland. As NATO members, Iceland and the United States share strategic interests in the Arctic region, as well as many political and cultural values, including mutual respect for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. The U.S. and Iceland have a longstanding history of trade. As an export powerhouse in seafood ($247 million), optical and medical instruments ($75 million), beverages ($31 million), special other ($29 million), and machinery ($16 million), Iceland contributes to the commercial and trading interests of the U.S. economy. The U.S.

    E-1 and E-2 visas allow foreign nationals to enter the U.S. for a period of up to two years (with an option to renew on a rolling basis) to engage in substantial trade and investment activities. Nationals of 84 countries are eligible for E-1 and/or E-2 visa status. Iceland is one of only four European countries (Russia, Hungary, and Belarus) and of a small handful of NATO and Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development member states that do not currently hold this status. Traditionally, E-1 and E-2 visas were extended to foreign citizens under “treaties of navigation”, however in recent years legislation is typically required to add nations to the list of eligible countries. In 2018, the KIWI Act was signed into law, granting citizens of New Zealand access to E visas. In 2022, the AMIGOS Act was signed into law, granting E visa eligibility to citizens of Portugal.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global CEO pay increased by 50 percent since 2019, 56 times more than worker wages

    Source: Oxfam –

    • Average CEO pay surged by 50 percent in real terms since 2019, while average worker wages increased by just 0.9 percent.
    • Every hour, billionaires pocket more wealth than the average worker earns in an entire year.  
    • The average gender pay gap in 11,366 corporations worldwide narrowed slightly from 27 percent to 22 percent between 2022 and 2023 ―yet their average female employee still effectively works for free on Fridays, while their average male employee is paid through the week.
    • Oxfam and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) are calling for higher taxes on the super-rich to invest in people and planet.

    Average global CEO pay hit $4.3 million in 2024, reveals new analysis from Oxfam ahead of International Workers’ Day (1 May). This is a 50 percent real-term increase from $2.9 million in 2019 (adjusted for inflation) —a rise that far outpaces the real wage growth of the average worker, who saw a 0.9 percent increase over the same five-year period in the countries where CEO pay data is available.

    The figures are median averages, based on full executive pay packages, including bonuses and stock options, from nearly 2,000 corporations across 35 countries where CEOs were paid more than $1 million in 2024. The data, analyzed by Oxfam, was sourced from the S&P Capital IQ database, which uses publicly reported company financials.

    • Ireland and Germany have some of the highest-paid CEOs, earning an average of $6.7 million and $4.7 million a year in 2024 respectively.
    • Average CEO pay in South Africa was $1.6 million in 2024, while in India, it reached $2 million.

    “Year after year, we see the same grotesque spectacle: CEO pay explodes while workers’ wages barely budge. This isn’t a glitch in the system —it’s the system working exactly as designed, funnelling wealth ever upwards while millions of working people struggle to afford rent, food, and healthcare,” said Oxfam International Executive Director Amitabh Behar.

    Boosts to global CEO pay come as warnings grow that wages are failing to keep pace with the cost of living. While the International Labor Organization (ILO) global reports real wages grew by 2.7 percent in 2024, many workers have seen their wages stagnate. In France, South Africa and Spain for example, real wage growth was just 0.6 percent last year. While wage inequality had decreased globally, it remains very high, particularly in low-income countries, where the share of income of the richest 10 percent is 3.4 times higher than the poorest 40 percent.

    Billionaires —who often fully, or in part, own large corporations— pocketed on average $206 billion in new wealth over the last year. This is equivalent to $23,500 an hour, more than the global average income in 2023 ($21,000).
    Beyond runaway CEO pay, the global working class is now facing a new threat: sweeping US tariffs. These policies pose significant risks for workers worldwide, including job losses and rising costs for basic goods that would stoke extreme inequality everywhere. 

    “For so many workers worldwide, President Trump’s reckless use of tariffs means a push from one cruel order to another: from the frying pan of destructive neoliberal trade policy to the fire of weaponized tariffs. These policies will not only hurt working families in the US, but especially harm workers trying to escape poverty in some of the world’s poorest countries,” said Behar.   

    Increasingly, corporations are being required by law to report their gender pay gaps ―the average difference in earnings between women and men. Oxfam’s analysis of the S&P Capital IQ database found that among 11,366 corporations across 82 countries that reported gender pay gap data, the average gap narrowed slightly from 27 percent to 22 percent between 2022 and 2023. Yet, on average, women in these corporations still effectively work without pay on Fridays, while their male counterparts are paid for the full week.

    Corporations in Japan and South Korea reported some of the highest average gender pay gaps in 2023 (around 40 percent). The average gap in Latin America was 36 percent in 2023, up from 34 percent the previous year. Corporations in Canada, Denmark, Ireland, and the UK reported average pay gaps of 16 percent.

    Oxfam’s analysis also found that out of 45,501 corporations across 168 countries where the CEO is paid more than $10 million and their gender is reported, fewer than 7 percent have a female CEO.

    “The outrageous pay inequality between CEOs and workers confirms that we lack democracy where it is needed most: at work. Around the world, workers are being denied the basics of life while corporations pocket record profits, dodge taxes and lobby to evade responsibility,” said Luc Triangle, General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).

    “Workers are demanding a New Social Contract that works for them —not the billionaires undermining democracy. Fair taxation, strong public services, living wages and a just transition are not radical demands —they are the foundation of a just society. It’s time to end the billionaire coup against democracy and put people and planet first.”

    Oxfam and the ITUC are calling on governments to sustain and accelerate momentum on taxing the super-rich, both nationally and globally. This includes introducing top marginal rates of tax of at least 75 percent on all personal income for the highest earners to discourage sky-high executive pay. Governments must also ensure minimum wages keep up with inflation, and that everyone has the right to unionize, strike and bargain collectively.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Launch of the UK–ADB Nature and Food Partnership

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    This session highlighted key initiatives, including the Central and South Asian Flyways, regenerative agriculture, natural capital and biodiversity credits, and the UK Conservation Learning Week. The launch event was held on the sidelines of the 58th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Milan, Italy.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

    The UK has secured the best deal India has ever agreed, providing businesses with security and confidence to trade with the fastest-growing economy in the G20.

    Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds with Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal

    Delivering Economic Growth 

    The core mission of this Government is to deliver economic growth that raises living standards and puts money in people’s pockets, and that is exactly what this deal will do. We estimate that it will increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, add £4.8billion a year to our economy and boost wages by £2.2 billion every year in the long run. footnote 1 This is the best deal India has ever agreed to. It delivers on our manifesto commitment to create trade relationships that unlock new opportunities for businesses across all our nations and regions. 

    Case study – Standard Chartered 

    Standard Chartered is a leading UK-based international banking group with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets. It is the largest and oldest foreign bank in India, acting as a ‘super connector’ of cross-border trade and investment by driving commerce and prosperity through its unique diversity for more than 165 years.   

    Saif Malik, CEO, UK and Head of Coverage, UK, Standard Chartered, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor.

    We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.

    Case study – UPS

    UPS is one of the world’s largest companies, with 2024 revenue of $91.1 billion, and provides a broad range of integrated logistics solutions for customers in more than 200 countries and territories, including connecting the United Kingdom and India. 

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics, said:

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network.

    We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Future-Proofing Our Economy 

    This deal gives UK businesses first-mover advantage with a new economic superpower. Currently the biggest country in the world by population, India is projected to move from its fifth-largest global economy to third in the next three years, thanks to the highest growth rate in the G20. footnote 2 By the end of the decade, it will be home to an estimated 60 million middle-class consumers, whose numbers are projected to grow to a quarter of a billion by 2050. footnote 3 And by 2035, their demand for imports is on course to top £1.4 trillion. footnote 4 The enormous scope of this market, where British goods and services are already sought after, represents an equally huge opportunity for UK businesses in the decades to come. 

    Case study – John Smedley Ltd

    Established in 1784 in Lea Mills, Derbyshire, John Smedley Ltd is a UK-based manufacturer and retailer of luxury knitwear. 

    Bill Leach, Global Sales Director, John Smedley Ltd, said:

    India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, and we are very excited about the UK- India Free Trade Agreement coming to fruition.

    John Smedley knitwear is already sold in over 50 countries around the world, and now that the FTA has been finalised, we shall very much look forward to ensuring that an ever-increasing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to The World’s Finest Knitwear.

    We are thankful to DBT for their significant efforts in bringing this FTA to successful conclusion.

    Cutting costs for UK-India trade 

    From day one, this deal will support businesses across the United Kingdom by making it cheaper, easier, and quicker to trade with India. The deal will slash costs on UK exports, including whiskies and gin, cosmetics, medical devices, advanced machinery and lamb. Based on current trade alone, India’s tariff cuts amount to £400m in the first year, going up around £900m after 10 years. footnote 5 And that’s before factoring in the savings from speedier and easier trade from improved customs and digital commitments. This immediate relief represents a major advantage our businesses will enjoy over their international competitors, helping them to invest, expand, and support more high-quality jobs. 

    Case study – Smith+Nephew

    Smith+Nephew designs and manufactures technology that takes the limits off living. Smith+Nephew’s products include: Advanced Wound Management; orthopaedics and a robot assisted surgery system; and joint preservation and soft tissue orthopaedics.

    Deepak Nath, Chief Executive Officer, Smith+Nephew, said:

    Given the size of the Indian economy and its healthcare system, India is an important location for Smith+Nephew. The Free Trade Agreement offers the potential to build trading links in the healthcare sector.

    We hope that the Free Trade Agreement will enable Smith+Nephew’s innovative medical technologies to support more healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility.

    Delivering opportunities for High-Growth Sectors 

    This deal supports the UK’s world-leading high-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy, including:  

    • Slashing tariffs for UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors, including for automotives, electrical machinery and high-end optical products.  

    • Giving the clean energy industry brand new and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, as India makes the switch to renewable energy, alongside their growing energy demand. 

    • Unlocking new opportunities for medical devices firms within the life sciences sector, with reduced tariffs and rules of origin that factor in the UK’s complex supply chains and ensure that businesses can reap the benefits.  

    • Enshrining copyright protections for the creative sector, enabling our exporters to feel confident exporting to India with a commitment that works will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. India will also commit to engaging on aspects of Copyright and Related Rights. This deal addresses the interests of UK creators, rights holders, and consumers, including around Public Performance Rights and Artist Resale Rights, which acknowledge the importance of payment rights. India will also conduct an internal review of their copyright protection terms.   

    • Guaranteeing access for the UK’s world-class financial and professional business services sectors to India’s growing market. This is on top of securing India’s foreign investment cap for the insurance sector, ensuring UK financial services companies are treated equally to domestic suppliers, and encouraging the recognition of professional qualifications. 

    • Securing India’s best ever commitments on digital trade for our Digital and technology sectors, such as promoting digital systems and paperless trade, helping UK businesses of all sizes take the opportunities on offer in this huge and rapidly expanding market.  

    Case study – Premier League

    The Premier League is the world’s most-watched football competition, reaching 1.6 billion viewers in 189 countries around the world. The global success of the Premier League makes it one of the UK’s most significant soft power assets, amplifying British cultural values and generating economic growth and inward investment. 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India.  

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.

    Case study – EY

    EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fuelled by sector insights, a globally connected, multidisciplinary network and a diverse ecosystem of partners, EY teams provide services in more than 150 countries and territories. 

    Rohan Malik, EMEIA and UKI Government & Public Sector Managing Partner, EY, said:  

    This agreement is poised to accelerate an economic partnership that is already thriving, with the value of total trade between the UK and India having more than doubled from £16.6bn to £40bn over the last decade.

    British businesses stand to benefit substantially from enhanced access to one of the world’s largest export markets and a skills pool that can fuel strategically important UK sectors, including professional services and emerging industries based around data and AI.

    Case study – Concrete Canvas Ltd

    Concrete Canvas Ltd is a Wales-based low-carbon concrete manufacturer. 

    William Crawford, Director of Concrete Canvas Ltd, said: 

    India is a dynamic and vibrant economy and an increasingly important market for Concrete Canvas products. A UK-India FTA will help to accelerate our plans for growth by reducing trade barriers and making us more competitive.

    This is welcome news for both UK and Indian businesses!

    Case study – Biopanda

    Biopanda is a Belfast-based medtech manufacturer which exports in vitro test kits for clinical laboratories, veterinary practice, and food safety laboratories.

    Philip McKee, Sales Manager at Biopanda, said:  

    Biopanda have been supplying a range of diagnostic products to the Indian market throughout the past ten years.

    We value the business we have done already throughout India and with the introduction of the UK-India FTA this should benefit in increased trade with the removal of export barriers.

    This will hopefully increase the market access, allowing our distributors throughout India to provide a larger range of our highly accurate clinical diagnostic products at a lower price to the consumer.

    Unlocking Opportunities Nationwide 

    Through our Plan for Change, this government will raise living standards in every part of the United Kingdom. This deal supports that goal, unlocking new opportunities in every region and nation.  

    This deal also opens a huge new market for iconic UK brands, securing India’s best ever tariff offer and providing access to India’s growing middle-class consumer base, which will give iconic UK brands the opportunity to expand their reach and influence. This access includes cutting tariffs on whiskies from 150% to 75% at entry into force, following to 40% after 10 years, as well as on other agri-food products such as soft drinks dropping from 33% to 0% after seven years, and lamb dropping from 33% to 0% at entry into force. Separately high-end cars will benefit from a drop from over 100% to 10% under a quota. We have also secured India’s best ever agreement on Rules of Origin, which enables UK businesses to take advantage of these new lower tariffs.

    This deal will also support consumers as they benefit from the best of India and greater variety as our trading relationship grows, including clothing, footwear, and iconic food and drink. New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent.

    Case study – Chivas Brothers Ltd

    Chivas Brothers Ltd is part of the Pernod Ricard group of companies and exports over £2bn of Scotch whisky and gin every year, including brands like Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, The Glenlivet and Beefeater. India is amongst Chivas Brothers’ largest export markets and the biggest consumer of whisky worldwide by volume. The UK-India trade agreement will help solidify and potentially expand on Pernod Ricard’s existing investments, which includes a €200m distillery construction in the Indian state of Maharashtra and £100m in bottling facilities in Dumbarton, Scotland. 

    Jean-Etienne Gourgues, Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO, said:

    The announcement of a free trade agreement in principle between the UK and India is a welcome boost for Chivas Brothers during an uncertain global economic environment.

    India is the world’s biggest whisky market by volume and greater access will be a game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s. The deal will support long term investment and jobs in our distilleries and bottling plants in Scotland, as well as help deliver growth in both Scotland and India over the next decade. Slàinte to the UK Ministers and officials who steered the deal though long negotiations.

    Case study – Diageo

    Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with a collection of brands across spirits and beer categories sold in more than 180 countries around the world. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.  

    Diageo is a leading player in India’s beverage alcohol sector and is among the top 10 fast-moving consumer goods companies in India by market capitalisation. Diageo has 50 manufacturing facilities across India, employs over 3,300 people directly in market with a further 100,000 jobs supported throughout its value chain. India is one of Diageo’s largest markets globally and accounts for almost half of its total global spirits volume.

    Diageo Chief Executive Debra Crew said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a huge achievement by Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer and Ministers Goyal and Reynolds, and all of us at Diageo toast their success. It will be transformational for Scotch and Scotland, while powering jobs and investment in both India and the UK.

    The deal will also increase quality and choice for discerning consumers across India, the world’s largest and most exciting whisky market.

    Enhancing Security through our partnership

    The UK and India already enjoy a deep and broad partnership built on our shared principles as two democracies, our commitment to the rules-based international order, strong ties in areas including culture, education, food, and sport, and of course through our living bridge – with some 1.9 million people with Indian heritage calling the UK their home. footnote 6

    This agreement encourages collaboration between our two complementary economies. It creates a framework to promote closer ties on innovation – including on new technologies in areas like agriculture, health, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy. And our agreement on business mobility will help experts on both sides deliver their services, enabling us to capitalise on the economic transformation that technology will bring over the course of this century. 

    Through this deal, we are showing the world that we stand for free, fair, and open trade. In an increasingly unstable and volatile world, this provides businesses with the confidence that they need to grow and expand. And as India’s approach to global trade changes, so can this deal. We have agreed in numerous areas that, if India offer a better deal to a different country, we can come back to the table to renegotiate for the UK. 

    Case study – Coltraco Ultrasonics

    Coltraco Ultrasonics are high-exporting advanced manufacturers of ultrasonic instrumentation and systems, exporting 90% manufactured output to 120 countries. Coltraco have twice won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade and have exported to India for 30 years. Since 2019, Coltraco have won the contract for nearly 200 ships of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard and support in-service use and maintenance of their ultrasonic watertight integrity instrumentation on board. 

    Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter OBE, Chairman Coltraco Ultrasonics Limited & Director-General The Durham Institute of Research, Development & Invention, said:

    Coltraco Ultrasonics is strongly supportive of the India FTA Trade Agreement and proud to have modestly contributed to and advising the British negotiating team on various chapters.

    The UK private sector can now, because of the India FTA, the Windsor Framework CPTPP, and a variety of other UK FTAs, look out to the world, balancing our exporting and investment opportunities between the USA, the EU and Asia Pacific.

    It is a tremendous success and we thank British and Indian Civil Servants for their public service in the UK-India FTA.

    Unlocking Access to India’s Untapped Procurement Market 

    For the first time, UK businesses will have guaranteed and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, covering goods, services and construction. UK businesses will be granted brand new access to approximately 40,000 tenders with a value of at least £38 billion a year. footnote 8 This will unlock significant opportunities spanning a range of sectors, including transport, healthcare and life sciences and green energy. Alongside this UK firms will, for the first time, have access to India’s procurement portal, connecting them to the information they need to make the best out of these opportunities – which will grow as India builds the infrastructure necessary for an economic superpower with the world’s largest population. 

    UK companies will also get exclusive treatment under the ‘Make in India’ policy, which currently provides preferential treatment for federal government procurement to businesses who manufacture or produce in India. However, this unprecedented treatment will mean that if at least 20% of a company’s product or service is from the UK, they will be treated as a ‘Class Two local supplier’– granting them the same status that is currently only ever given to Indian businesses.  

    Protecting Our Values 

    Throughout the negotiations, we have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, the environment, gender equality, and development. We have protected the NHS, defended the UK’s interests, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. This deal demonstrates our commitment to both workers and businesses, staying true to our values while driving economic growth.

    1. DBT CGE modelling. See Technical Annex

    2. World Economic Outlook Database, October 2024

    3. Projections are calculated using the methodology described in DBT’s Global Trade Outlook, February 2023

    4. Ibid.

    5. The methodology for estimating the value of duties can be found in Annex 5 of the technical annexes accompanying the UK-India FTA Scoping assessment

    6. 2021 England and Wales Census; 2021 NI Census; 2011 Scottish Census

    7. DBT inward investment results 2023 to 2024 (HTML version) – GOV.UK; ; Grant Thornton, Britain meets India 2024; Grant Thornton, India meets Britain tracker: 2023.

    8. This analysis utilises Top 200 Entity data from India’s e-procurement dashboard, for the financial years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23, which is not exhaustively used by all federal government agencies for all procurements. Therefore, several entities included within India’s market access schedule cannot be included within the analysis. This analysis does not take into account restrictions on access as a result of Make in India, the chapter thresholds and tenders for goods or services not covered by the government procurement chapter.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK concludes trade deal with India

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK concludes trade deal with India

    Multi-billion-pound boost to UK economy with landmark India trade deal to make working people better off

    • Huge economic win for UK as trade deal with India agreed which will deliver for working people and British businesses 

    • Deal will slash Indian tariffs on key products such as whisky, cosmetics and medical devices, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines for UK exports to unleash opportunities for businesses across regions and nations of UK 

    • Delivers on Plan for Change as £4.8 billion added to UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year in the long run under deal 

    The UK and India have today agreed a landmark trade deal which delivers on this government’s core mission of growing the economy, raising living standards, and putting money in people’s pockets. 

    Indian tariffs will be slashed, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines, with 85% of these becoming fully tariff-free within a decade. 

    Whisky and gin tariffs will be halved from 150% to 75% before reducing to 40% by year ten of the deal, while automotive tariffs will go from over 100% to 10% under a quota. 

    Other goods with reduced tariffs, which can open markets and make trade cheaper for businesses and Indian consumers, include cosmetics, aerospace, lamb, medical devices, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks, chocolate and biscuits.  

    British shoppers could see cheaper prices and more choice on products including clothes, footwear, and food products including frozen prawns as UK liberalises tariffs. 

    The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, UK GDP by £4.8 billion and wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long run. 

    UK businesses gain a competitive edge over international competitors when entering India’s enormous market as it gets even bigger, forecasted to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations only two months ago. Negotiators across both sides have worked around the clock since February to get this deal done, which is the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade deal the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the best deal India has ever agreed. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    We are now in a new era for trade and the economy. That means going further and faster to strengthen the UK’s economy, putting more money in working people’s pockets.  

    Through this government’s stable and pragmatic leadership, the UK has become an attractive place to do business. Today we have agreed a landmark deal with India – one of the fastest growing economies in the world, which will grow the economy and deliver for British people and business.  

    Strengthening our alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of our Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy here at home.   

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    This government’s number one mission is growing the economy as part of our Plan for Change so we can put more money in people’s pockets.  

    By striking a new trade deal with the fastest-growing economy in the world, we are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year and unlocking growth in every corner of the country, from advanced manufacturing in the North East to whisky distilleries in Scotland. 

    In times of global uncertainty, a pragmatic approach to global trade that provides businesses and consumers with stability is more important than ever.

    At least 1.9 million people with Indian heritage call the UK their home and striking this deal will strengthen the vital partnership between our two democracies. 

    The benefits for UK businesses and consumers under this deal are massive, with wins across an array of sectors.  

    Notes to editors 

    Benefits for businesses of all sizes 

    Barriers to trading will be dropped, with India agreeing to reduce tariffs on a whole host of products including whisky, medical devices, advanced machinery, and lamb, making UK exports more competitive. Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.  

    Exporting to this huge market will be easier than ever before thanks to India agreeing to release goods as quickly as possible after arrival at customs, work with the UK on one streamlined portal for trade and publish customs procedures and laws online in English. In addition, new digital commitments will support electronic contracts and transactions. These changes could particularly support small and medium-sized businesses, making it easier for them to enter the Indian market. 

    Delivering for high-growth sectors 

    High-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy are supported through this deal, including: 

    • Tariffs cut on the UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors from aerospace and automotive, electrical circuits and conductors, and high-end optical products. 

    • The clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand. 

    • Reduced tariffs on medical devices that take the UK’s complex supply chains into consideration will unleash new opportunities for the UK life sciences sector. 

    • Enhanced copyright protections for the creative sector will give exporters confidence thanks to a commitment that their work will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. 

    • World-class UK services sectors – who export just over £500 billion worldwide will now benefit from market certainty when trading into the growing Indian market. 

    More choice and protections for consumers 

    As bilateral trade grows under this deal, the UK will benefit from the best India has to offer with British shoppers enjoying access to a greater variety of clothes and shoes.  New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent. 

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the “transformational” deal: 

    The UK-India free trade agreement is a once in a generation deal and a landmark moment for Scotch Whisky exports to the world’s largest whisky market. It shows that the UK government is making significant progress towards achieving its growth mission, and the Scotch Whisky industry looks forward to working with the UK and Indian governments in the months ahead to implement the deal, which would be a big boost to two major global economies during turbulent times. 

    The reduction of the current 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky will be transformational for the industry, and has the potential to increase Scotch Whisky exports to India by £1bn over the next 5 years, creating 1,200 jobs across the UK. It will also give discerning consumers in India far greater choice of brands, as more SME Scotch Whisky producers have the opportunity to enter the market.” 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:  

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India. 

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.” 

    Bill Winters CBE, Group CEO of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor. We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.   

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics said: 

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network. We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Richard Heald, OBE, UK-India Business Council Chair said: 

    The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) welcomes the agreement of the new Free Trade Agreement between the United Kingdom and India. This marks a significant milestone in the deepening of economic and strategic ties between our two nations.  

    It matters when the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world reach a trade agreement. Such an agreement is illustrative of the positive momentum in the UK-India relationship, the commitment and ambition of both Governments, and the opportunities for greater trade, investment and collaboration between our countries.

    Notes to editors 

    • We have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, gender, and development. We have protected the NHS, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. 

    Data sources for this release include: 

    • FTA economic impacts: DBT Technical Note: The preliminary economic impacts of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement 

    • India forecast to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India is the fastest growing economy in the world: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India and the UK are the fifth and sixth largest economies: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025 

    • 1.9 million people with Indian heritage live in the UK: ONS 2021 Census

    • UK services exports are worth over £500 billion: ONS UK trade February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Congolese refugees face humanitarian emergency in Burundi

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Thousands of Congolese refugees who fled violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are now living in extremely precarious conditions in the designated Musenyi site in Burundi. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has launched an emergency response to reduce the risk of measles and malaria, but more support is needed as people’s humanitarian needs remain largely unmet.

    Since the beginning of the year, thousands of people have fled fighting and insecurity in the provinces of North and South Kivu in the DRC. Crossing the Rusizi river into Burundi, they have hastily set up camp in schools, sheds, churches and stadiums in the province of Cibitoke on the border with South Kivu.

    In March, the Burundian authorities and the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) relocated the refugees to the Musenyi site, an official site inaugurated in 2024 in the south-east to provide basic facilities and services for up to 10,000 refugees.

    Megaphone in hand, an MSF community mobiliser walks around the Musenyi refugee site to encourage parents to vaccinate their children against measles. Burundi, April 2025.
    Dorine Niyungeko/MSF

    Unfortunately, the site’s capacity was quickly exceeded: according to UNHCR, by the end of April, some 18,000 refugees were living at the Musenyi site. Unsurprisingly, their living conditions quickly became unbearable and created health risks for adults and children alike.

    “I’ve been living in a shed since I arrived because there aren’t enough shelters for everyone,” says Nathalie*, a refugee who arrived in February. “Tarpaulins are given to large families to make shelters. But I live here, and we sleep in this shed, without mattresses, with toads, and moisture everywhere. We feel abandoned.”

    Built on poorly drained clay soil, the Musenyi site is particularly prone to flooding during the rainy season. Now, since the end of April, the rainy season has begun and, although drainage channels have been dug, water is stagnating in many parts of the site. People are trying to protect their shelters and the communal latrines as best they can to prevent the dirty water from spilling into the alleyways.

    “There is an urgent need to improve the living conditions on this site, as all the elements for serious health problems are present,” says Barbara Turchet, MSF’s emergency coordinator in Burundi. “Given the hygiene conditions, we have started to set up isolation units as a preventive measure in case of a cholera outbreak. And to reduce the risk of malaria, which is exacerbated by the amount of stagnant water everywhere, we have distributed more than 8,000 mosquito nets and are planning long-term mosquito spraying at the site.”

    8,500

    8,5

    measles vaccinations for children

    8,000

    8,

    mosquito nets

    Given the concentration of children at the site, MSF has also helped the health authorities organise a measles vaccination campaign, as several cases of this highly infectious but preventable disease have already been confirmed among the refugees.

    “We set up four vaccination points,” says Turchet. “We were able to vaccinate 8,500 children against measles and treat those who were infected. That’s something, but we have to do more to improve the refugees’ situation and protect their health.”

    Essential services overwhelmed as aid funding contracts

    A few organisations other than MSF are also present to offer healthcare to the refugees, but many people are unhappy with the insufficient access to care.

    “Here, refugees living with HIV have no access to treatment,” says Henri*, a refugee from South Kivu who was moved to Musenyi site from another in Burundi. “When we were in Rugombo, [also] in the province of Cibitoke, there was medical follow-up and treatment. But here, the health facilities don’t offer this kind of care.”

    In Musenyi, as in many other places today, humanitarian organisations are struggling to provide sufficient support because funding has decreased. Several humanitarian agencies are unable to provide sufficient medical follow-up for patients in the clinics they support. Food distributions are also clearly inadequate, further increasing the vulnerability of families. The UN estimates that US$76 million are required to meet the humanitarian needs of Congolese refugees in Burundi.

    “The gravity of the situation is real and calls for more attention and support,” warns Turchet. “At our level, we are doing our utmost and have extended our support to provide medical care for victims of sexual violence and psychosocial support for refugees suffering from mental health problems. But there are needs everywhere…”

    *Names have been changed for confidentiality

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Syncfusion® Announces Successful Completion of SOC 2® Type 2 Examination

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Syncfusion®, Inc., the enterprise technology provider of choice, today announced that it has successfully completed a System and Organization Controls (SOC) 2® Type 2 audit examination for its Essential Studio and Bold products. Additionally, the electronic signature platform BoldSign® is now Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)-certified in compliance with European Union (EU) laws.

    “Secure, accurate information is the cornerstone of the prosperity of any organization,” said Daniel Jebaraj, CEO of Syncfusion. “The successful completion of our SOC 2 Type 2 examination reinforces our ongoing commitment to create and maintain a secure operating environment for our clients’ confidential data, based upon industry standards and best practices, now and in the future.”

    Successful SOC 2®Type 2 audit examination

    SOC 2® reports examine controls at a service organization and are conducted within the AICPA’s Reporting on Controls at a Service Organization framework. The SOC 2® Type 2 report provides an understanding of the service organization’s suitability of the design, implementation, and operating effectiveness of its internal controls. Organizations are audited based on the five trust service criteria: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. An organization may select any or all of the trust service criteria applicable to its business; Syncfusion chose to report on all five criteria.

    The independent auditing firm tested Syncfusion’s controls and examined its policies and procedures regarding operational areas like:

    • Cloud security.
    • Network connectivity.
    • Systems development life cycle.
    • Computer operations.
    • Logistical access.
    • Data transmission.
    • Backup and disaster recovery.

    Upon completing the audit, Syncfusion received a Service Auditor’s Report with an opinion demonstrating that its policies, procedures, and infrastructure meet or exceed the stringent SOC 2® criteria. The successful completion of this voluntary examination reflects Syncfusion’s dedication to protecting its customers’ information.

    BoldSign® delivers fully QES-compliant signatures

    A QES offers a valid, legally binding digital signature backed by the EU’s strict security guardrails as laid out in electronic IDentification, Authentication and trust Services (eIDAS) regulations. A QES-compliant signature has the same legal power as a handwritten one across all EU countries. Additionally, BoldSign has GDPR-compliant, EU-based data centers, seamless QES identity verification, multilingual support, and a detailed audit trail for each QES-signed document. To learn more about BoldSign, QES, and other EU-specific features, visit https://boldsign.com/qes.

    About Syncfusion®, Inc.
    Headquartered in the technology hub of Research Triangle Park, N.C., Syncfusion, Inc.® delivers an award-winning ecosystem of developer control suites, embeddable BI platforms, and business software. Syncfusion was founded in 2001 with a single software component and a mission to support businesses of all sizes—from individual developers and start-ups to Fortune 500 enterprises. Though its pilot product, the Essential Studio® suite, has grown to over 1,900 developer controls, its mission remains the same. With offices in the U.S., India, and Kenya, Syncfusion prioritizes the customer experience by providing feature-rich solutions to help developers and enterprises solve complex problems, save money, and build high-performance, robust applications.

    Contact: Brittany Kearns
    Phone: 919-270-8054
    Email: brittany@crossroadsb2b.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sompo appoints Nicholas Walsh as Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors for Sompo International Holdings Ltd.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PEMBROKE, Bermuda, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sompo, a leading global provider of commercial and consumer property and casualty (re)insurance, today announced the appointment of Nicholas Walsh as Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors for Sompo International Holdings Ltd. (“SIH”)

    Mr Walsh, who has been an Independent Non-Executive Director of SIH since June 2022, succeeds James Shea who last month was appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sompo P&C, in addition to his role as CEO and Executive Director, SIH.

    Mr Shea said: “We are delighted that Nicholas Walsh has become our new SIH Board Chairman. Nic is a highly respected leader with more than 50 years of experience in insurance and his expertise has been invaluable to us since he first joined our Board three years ago. Nic’s new appointment comes at an exciting time for Sompo as we continue to expand our business around the world. We look forward to continuing to benefit from his guidance and insights, helping us put our customers and trading partners even more at the center of everything we do.”

    Mr Walsh spent 42 years with AIG, holding numerous leadership positions. He retired in 2014 as Vice Chairman of AIG Property and Casualty Inc. and previously served as Executive Vice President of AIG Inc., CEO of AIG’s international general insurance business and chair of several AIG regional companies.

    Mr Walsh has extensive experience on international boards and international societies. Since 2020, he has been an independent director of McGill Global Solutions LLC, and from 2020-2024 McGill & Partners Ltd. From 2014 to 2019, Mr Walsh was an independent director of Jardine Lloyd Thompson (JLT) PLC, a London-based multinational insurance broker, and JLT’s US subsidiaries. Mr Walsh also serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director of Endurance Worldwide Insurance Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SIH.

    In addition to Mr Walsh’s appointment, Monica Cramér Manhem has been appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director and Yoshihiro Uotani, Sompo Group Chief Risk Officer (CRO) has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director to the Board of Directors of SIH.

    Monica Cramér Manhem has served as Independent Non-Executive Director SI Insurance (Europe), SA (“SIIE”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SIH, since 2023. Prior to this, she was CEO at SiriusPoint International, the largest reinsurance company in Scandinavia. With nearly 40 years of experience in the insurance and reinsurance industry, Monica is a seasoned industry executive. She joined Sirius International in 1985 and was a board director between 2014-2022.

    Yoshihiro Uotani was appointed Senior Executive Vice President of Sompo Holdings in April 2025. He has served as Group Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and Executive Officer of Sompo Holdings, Inc. since April 2021. Mr Uotani leads the company’s global risk teams and has more than 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, having worked across multiple international locations including Germany, the UK, the US and Japan.

    Mr Shea said: “The appointments of Monica and Uotani-san will strengthen even further the depth of expertise within our SIH Board. Monica brings with her broad expertise across underwriting, communications, analytics, strategic and regulatory topics and is a respected industry leader. As Group CRO, Uotani-san’s extensive knowledge will help us to navigate a complex and rapidly moving global risk landscape as we continue to take our business from strength to strength.”

    About Sompo

    We are Sompo, a global provider of commercial and consumer property, casualty, and specialty insurance and reinsurance. Building on the 135 years of innovation of our parent company, Sompo Holdings, Inc., Sompo employs approximately 9,500 people around the world who use their in-depth knowledge and expertise to help simplify and resolve your complex challenges. Because when you choose Sompo, you choose The Ease of Expertise™.

    “Sompo” refers to the brand under which Sompo International Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda-based holding company, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, operates its global property and casualty (re)insurance businesses. Sompo International Holdings Ltd. is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sompo Holdings, Inc., one of the leading property and casualty groups in the world with excellent financial strength as evidenced by ratings of A+ (Superior) from A.M. Best (XV size category) and A+ (Strong) from Standard & Poor’s. Shares of Sompo Holdings, Inc. are listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

    To learn more please follow us on LinkedIn or visit sompo-intl.com.

    Sompo Contact
    Mike Jones
    Global Head of Media Relations         
    M: +44 7765 901899
    E: mijones@sompo-intl.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Haivision Redefines ISR Video Processing and Transcoding with the New Kraken X1 Rugged

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Haivision, a leading global provider of mission-critical, real-time video networking and visual collaboration solutions, today introduced the Kraken X1 Rugged, a game-changing addition to its battle-hardened ISR video processing arsenal. Built for maximum operational impact at the tactical edge, Kraken X1 Rugged processes full-motion video (FMV), delivering low latency encoding, transcoding, and AI-enhanced video and metadata to support the toughest mission demands in the most extreme environments.

    Precision-engineered to meet any video processing challenge in forward-deployed ISR missions, the Kraken X1 Rugged packs cutting-edge AI capabilities and low-latency video performance into a rugged, compact, and fanless appliance. Engineered to meet MIL-STD ruggedization requirements in a small form factor device, Kraken X1 Rugged provides superior video processing for ISR missions in the most demanding environments – including UAVs, manned aircraft, vehicles, towers, ships, and more.

    Kraken X1 Rugged derives its high-density power from the NVIDIA Jetson Orin platform with next-gen GPU acceleration. Along with the ability to encode/transcode up to four 1080p HD streams, Kraken X1 Rugged can enhance situational awareness with real-time AI processing at the edge, capable of running third-party AI models directly on sensor-equipped platforms that are deployed in the field, instead of transporting the sensor feeds for processing to cloud data centers far from the action. By processing at the tactical edge, Kraken X1 Rugged can provide higher-quality intelligence delivered more reliably, more quickly, and more securely.

    “The Kraken X1 Rugged represents a significant evolution of our ISR platform, bringing ruggedized, real-time video processing to the most demanding environments,” said John Leipper, Defense Product Manager, Haivision. “It delivers the trusted Kraken capabilities our users rely on, in a compact, durable form factor optimized for high-performance AI-ready processing at the edge – right next to sensors.”

    Haivision’s Kraken solutions are trusted by ISR and mission-critical operations to turn constrained, unreliable networks into actionable intelligence pipelines for full motion video. Key capabilities of Kraken X1 Rugged include:

    • Real-time video for ISR: Process real-time FMV with surgical precision to supercharge critical decisions. Handle up to four 1080p60 streams or one 4Kp60 stream with HEVC/H.265 or H.264 compression.
    • Bandwidth optimization with KLV metadata: High-quality transcoding for downstream compatibility and transport even when network bandwidth is limited, along with synchronous/asynchronous KLV metadata, filtered as needed, to enhance geospatial context and unlock actionable intelligence.
    • Enrich intelligence with AI at the edge: Run third-party AI algorithms on NVIDIA accelerated GPUs to reliably extract high-quality intelligence at the tactical edge and deliver as full motion video and KLV metadata for downstream dissemination.
    • Ruggedized performance in a small form factor: MIL-STD environmental and power compliance for tough conditions, form factor suitable for deployment in environments with size and weight constraints, and support for 28V DC in a fanless appliance, deliver reliable results wherever ISR operations demand.
    • Seamlessly connect ISR networks: Route encoded or transcoded video streams to multiple destinations and convert between transport protocols like MPEG-TS, SRT, RTMP, RTSP, and RTP.
    • Battle-tested compatibility: Runs the same industry-leading Kraken software trusted by defense, public safety, and intelligence organizations worldwide.

    The Kraken family of real-time ISR video encoding and transcoding solutions are central to Haivision’s cutting-edge product portfolio, driving mission-critical operations with precision and power. Haivision’s video wall systems for command centers, video distribution solutions, and ISR video technology help aerospace, enterprise, government, military, and public safety organizations make informed decisions faster.

    The Kraken X1 Rugged will be showcased at SOF Week 2025 from May 6-8 in Tampa, Florida, and will be available in fall 2025. Learn more about the Kraken X1 Rugged here.

    About Haivision
    Haivision is a leading global provider of mission-critical, real-time video networking and visual collaboration solutions. Our connected cloud and intelligent edge technologies enable organizations globally to engage audiences, enhance collaboration, and support decision-making. We provide high-quality, low-latency, secure, and reliable live video at a global scale. Haivision open-sourced its award-winning SRT low-latency video streaming protocol and founded the SRT Alliance to support its adoption. Awarded four Emmys® for Technology and Engineering from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Haivision continues to fuel the future of IP video transformation. Founded in 2004, Haivision is headquartered in Montreal and Chicago with offices, sales, and support located throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia. To learn more, visit www.haivision.com.

    Jennifer Gazin
    514.334.5445 ext 8309
    jgazin@haivision.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Abundance Energy, sonnen, and Energywell Unite to Develop Residential Battery-Enabled Virtual Power Plants in Texas

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abundance Energy, sonnen, and Energywell Technology Licensing, LLC (“Energywell”) are joining forces to power the future of energy through the development of behind-the-meter, battery-enabled Virtual Power Plants (“VPP”) in Texas.

    The collaboration empowers Abundance Energy customers to use their sonnenConnect home batteries to support grid stability, ensure reliable energy delivery, and lower electricity costs while driving the development of smart, sustainable energy solutions.

    Optimized through the integration of Energywell’s Proton platform with sonnen’s advanced Virtual Power Plant battery control technology, each battery is continuously managed in response to market price signals, customer usage, and solar generation. Networked together, these batteries create a VPP, dynamically balancing energy supply and demand to maximize value for both the grid and the customer.

    “Our mission is to empower homeowners with smarter, more sustainable energy solutions,” said Thomas Mandry, CEO of Abundance Energy. “By combining sonnen’s best-in-class battery and Virtual Power Plant technology, Energywell’s market expertise through its Proton platform, we are delivering an innovative VPP model that benefits both customers and the Texas grid.”

    sonnen’s VPP technology intelligently manages energy supply and demand, ensuring stored solar or grid energy is strategically deployed when needed most. “Our VPP solutions enable customers to actively participate in the energy market while maintaining resilience in their homes,” said Blake Richetta, Chairman and CEO of sonnen. “With Abundance Energy, and Energywell, we’re setting a new standard for residential energy management.”

    Energywell’s Proton platform provides advanced forecasting and optimization tools to ensure batteries are dispatched in alignment with market opportunities. “The Texas energy landscape is evolving, and this partnership exemplifies the future of distributed energy,” said Michael Fallquist, CEO of Energywell. “By optimizing stored energy, we are reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions, building a smarter, cleaner, and more flexible grid.”

    This VPP initiative aligns with Texas’ growing demand for resilient, customer-driven energy solutions and paves the way for further innovation in the residential energy sector.

    About Abundance Energy

    Abundance Energy is a digital-native Retail Electric Provider (REP) startup licensed for operations in Texas. Abundance’s products include transparent fixed-rate residential plans and multi-meter Continuous Service Agreement plans for vacant property management with a built-to-purpose CSA customer platform. Abundance is part of the Quext family of companies that includes next-generation LoRaWAN proprietary IoT thermostats and smart locks for the multifamily market. Visit abundanceenergy.com for more information.

    About sonnen

    sonnen is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of smart energy storage systems for residential applications, and a pioneer of the residential battery based virtual power plant. The sonnen VPP is nationally recognized as a blueprint for the decentralized, digitalized, decarbonized energy system of the future. sonnen is one of the most experienced and fastest growing VPP energy storage companies in the world. sonnen has received many internationally recognized awards celebrating our technological achievement. sonnen products and services are used by the sonnenCommunity, a collection of visionaries around the world who share our vision of clean and affordable energy for everyone. In Texas, sonnen partners with SOLRITE Energy to bring their flagship Virtual Power Plant Power Purchase Agreement (VPA), to provide solar panels and home battery systems at no upfront cost.

    sonnen’s offices are located in Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, and the USA. sonnen is a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell. Learn more at: https://sonnenusa.com/en

    About Energywell

    Energywell is an energy technology company powering the sustainable energy transition. Energywell combines the financial strength of funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. and capital and commodities expertise from Hartree Partners L.P. with proprietary technology and a seasoned team of energy industry veterans. Visit Energywell.com for more information.

    About Proton

    Energywell’s Proton platform delivers real-time energy insights and seamless device integration, empowering businesses and customers to optimize energy more sustainably. Proton uses cloud-native, event-driven architecture to ensure energy solutions scale quickly while maintaining the highest standards of security, including SOC 2 Type 2 compliance. Proton is available for licensing for third parties looking to accelerate their own energy management capabilities. Visit Energywell.com/proton for more information.

    Press Contact
    FischTank PR
    sonnen@fischtankpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Excelliance MOS Adopts Silvaco DTCO Flow for the Development of Next-Gen Silicon Carbide Devices

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (“Silvaco”) (NASDAQ: SVCO), a leading provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation, today announced that Excelliance MOS has adopted Silvaco’s DTCO (Design Technology Co-Optimization) flow, including Victory TCAD™ and UTMOST IV™, to accelerate the development of its next-generation Silicon Carbide (SiC) power devices.

    As demand for high-efficiency power electronics continues to grow, Excelliance MOS is leveraging Silvaco’s advanced DTCO platform to streamline research and development for cutting-edge SiC technology. Silvaco’s Victory Process™ and Victory Device™ simulators provide realistic process and accurate device simulation, including support for SiC-specific phenomena such as anisotropic oxidation and mobility, enabling precise modeling of next-generation devices.

    “Building efficient power devices requires an integrated TCAD simulation and SPICE modeling environment,” said Eric Guichard, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the TCAD business unit at Silvaco. “Our DTCO flow—combining Victory TCAD with UTMOST IV SPICE modeling and Victory DoE™—provides Excelliance MOS with a powerful, user-friendly solution that enhances device and circuit performance optimization and reduces development time.”

    “Silvaco’s DTCO solution provides our team the accuracy and efficiency we need to push the boundaries of SiC device and circuit design,” said Fermi Liu, Director of R&D Department at Excelliance MOS. “With Silvaco’s DTCO flow combining Victory TCAD and UTMOST IV, we can simulate, analyze, and refine device performance faster than ever, helping us bring innovative power solutions to market more rapidly.”

    The inclusion of Victory DoE, Silvaco’s intuitive design-of-experiments interface, allows for rapid exploration of process variations, while UTMOST IV delivers automated electrical measurements and SPICE model extraction to speed up characterization and circuit-level modeling. Together, these tools enable Excelliance MOS to efficiently design, simulate, and refine next generation SiC devices.

    Silvaco’s simulation solutions are technology-agnostic and support a wide range of applications, including power, memory, photonics, CMOS, and display technologies. With user-centric features such as streamlined interfaces, automation capabilities, and comprehensive DoE support, Silvaco’s tools empower engineers to innovate with greater speed and accuracy.

    About Silvaco Group, Inc.
    Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for semiconductor and photonics processes, devices, and systems development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan. Learn more at silvaco.com.

    Contacts
    Media Relations:
    Tiffany Behany, press@silvaco.com

    Investor Relations:
    Greg McNiff, investors@silvaco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Radix to Showcase AI Driven Innovations at Big 10 and Friends Utility Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Radix, a technology services company delivering innovative solutions to asset-intensive educational institutions and industries, will attend the Big 10 and Friends Utilities Conference at the University of Cincinnati from May 18 to May 21, 2025.

    For the past two years, Radix has actively engaged at the Big 10 and Friends Utilities Conference that has participation of over 150 campus operations leaders from colleges and universities across North America. This year the Radix team will share insights designed to elevate innovation and action towards better asset and energy management of facilities, with tangible steps to reducing wastage while optimising energy.

    Thiago Bacic, Vice President of Infrastructure and Services North America at Radix, commented: “Radix has partnered with a spectrum of small and large universities and colleges to enable robust asset performance management practice that reduce waste and drive cost savings. We look forward to sharing these partner success stories that optimise facilities and energy management that’s both sustainable and at scale.”

    Radix will share insights into process improvement and optimization to boost sustainability, and enhance energy management that’s scalable while reducing cost, a key theme for Radix this year at Big Ten and Friends. “In essence, Radix can help elevate operational excellence at scale through data-driven solutions that drive measurable improvements in ways that were previously unattainable,” Thiago added.

    Boosting operational excellence for asset-intensive educational institutions’ facilities and energy management will be expanded on by Thiago during his presentation of “A Data-Driven Approach to Cost Effective Combined Cooling, Heating & Power Operations.”

    The discussion with various Universities will also include:

    1. Key Strategies for Successful Energy Implementation.
    2. Leveraging Existing Data to Enhance Facilities Performance.
    3. Steps to developing a Path to Optimized Asset Performance Management.

    The Radix team welcomes friends and partners to Booth 24 to collaborate and learn more about Education Sector Solutions – Radix: Enhancing Learning with AI and Software

    About Radix
    Founded in 2010, Radix is a privately held technology solutions company providing consulting, engineering, operations technology, and data and software technology solutions globally. Radix combines key capabilities and practices to empower customers to thrive along their digital transformation journey. Radix provides technology-based, data-driven solutions to industrial and non-industrial companies worldwide. Radix has experience leading projects in more than 30 countries. It has more than 1,800+ employees around the globe, with North American headquarters in Houston, Texas, main headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, additional offices in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte, and a presence in Singapore and Amsterdam. To learn more, visit www.radixeng.com.

    For more information:
    Citalouise Geiggar, Ph.D.
    citalouise.geiggar@radixeng.com
    Radix

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8c360a62-925d-4242-9213-fd3381e8c028

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK signs trade deal with India

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK signs trade deal with India

    Multi-billion-pound boost to UK economy with landmark India trade deal to make working people better off

    • Huge economic win for UK as trade deal with India agreed which will deliver for working people and British businesses 

    • Deal will slash Indian tariffs on key products such as whisky, cosmetics and medical devices, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines for UK exports to unleash opportunities for businesses across regions and nations of UK 

    • Delivers on Plan for Change as £4.8 billion added to UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year in the long run under deal 

    The UK and India have today agreed a landmark trade deal which delivers on this government’s core mission of growing the economy, raising living standards, and putting money in people’s pockets. 

    Indian tariffs will be slashed, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines, with 85% of these becoming fully tariff-free within a decade. 

    Whisky and gin tariffs will be halved from 150% to 75% before reducing to 40% by year ten of the deal, while automotive tariffs will go from over 100% to 10% under a quota. 

    Other goods with reduced tariffs, which can open markets and make trade cheaper for businesses and Indian consumers, include cosmetics, aerospace, lamb, medical devices, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks, chocolate and biscuits.  

    British shoppers could see cheaper prices and more choice on products including clothes, footwear, and food products including frozen prawns as UK liberalises tariffs. 

    The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, UK GDP by £4.8 billion and wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long run. 

    UK businesses gain a competitive edge over international competitors when entering India’s enormous market as it gets even bigger, forecasted to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations only two months ago. Negotiators across both sides have worked around the clock since February to get this deal done, which is the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade deal the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the best deal India has ever agreed. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    We are now in a new era for trade and the economy. That means going further and faster to strengthen the UK’s economy, putting more money in working people’s pockets.  

    Through this government’s stable and pragmatic leadership, the UK has become an attractive place to do business. Today we have agreed a landmark deal with India – one of the fastest growing economies in the world, which will grow the economy and deliver for British people and business.  

    Strengthening our alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of our Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy here at home.   

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    This government’s number one mission is growing the economy as part of our Plan for Change so we can put more money in people’s pockets.  

    By striking a new trade deal with the fastest-growing economy in the world, we are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year and unlocking growth in every corner of the country, from advanced manufacturing in the North East to whisky distilleries in Scotland. 

    In times of global uncertainty, a pragmatic approach to global trade that provides businesses and consumers with stability is more important than ever.

    At least 1.9 million people with Indian heritage call the UK their home and striking this deal will strengthen the vital partnership between our two democracies. 

    The benefits for UK businesses and consumers under this deal are massive, with wins across an array of sectors.  

    Notes to editors 

    Benefits for businesses of all sizes 

    Barriers to trading will be dropped, with India agreeing to reduce tariffs on a whole host of products including whisky, medical devices, advanced machinery, and lamb, making UK exports more competitive. Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.  

    Exporting to this huge market will be easier than ever before thanks to India agreeing to release goods as quickly as possible after arrival at customs, work with the UK on one streamlined portal for trade and publish customs procedures and laws online in English. In addition, new digital commitments will support electronic contracts and transactions. These changes could particularly support small and medium-sized businesses, making it easier for them to enter the Indian market. 

    Delivering for high-growth sectors 

    High-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy are supported through this deal, including: 

    • Tariffs cut on the UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors from aerospace and automotive, electrical circuits and conductors, and high-end optical products. 

    • The clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand. 

    • Reduced tariffs on medical devices that take the UK’s complex supply chains into consideration will unleash new opportunities for the UK life sciences sector. 

    • Enhanced copyright protections for the creative sector will give exporters confidence thanks to a commitment that their work will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. 

    • World-class UK services sectors – who export just over £500 billion worldwide will now benefit from market certainty when trading into the growing Indian market. 

    More choice and protections for consumers 

    As bilateral trade grows under this deal, the UK will benefit from the best India has to offer with British shoppers enjoying access to a greater variety of clothes and shoes.  New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent. 

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the “transformational” deal: 

    The UK-India free trade agreement is a once in a generation deal and a landmark moment for Scotch Whisky exports to the world’s largest whisky market. It shows that the UK government is making significant progress towards achieving its growth mission, and the Scotch Whisky industry looks forward to working with the UK and Indian governments in the months ahead to implement the deal, which would be a big boost to two major global economies during turbulent times. 

    The reduction of the current 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky will be transformational for the industry, and has the potential to increase Scotch Whisky exports to India by £1bn over the next 5 years, creating 1,200 jobs across the UK. It will also give discerning consumers in India far greater choice of brands, as more SME Scotch Whisky producers have the opportunity to enter the market.” 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:  

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India. 

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.” 

    Bill Winters CBE, Group CEO of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor. We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.   

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics said: 

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network. We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Richard Heald, OBE, UK-India Business Council Chair said: 

    The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) welcomes the agreement of the new Free Trade Agreement between the United Kingdom and India. This marks a significant milestone in the deepening of economic and strategic ties between our two nations.  

    It matters when the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world reach a trade agreement. Such an agreement is illustrative of the positive momentum in the UK-India relationship, the commitment and ambition of both Governments, and the opportunities for greater trade, investment and collaboration between our countries.

    Notes to editors 

    • We have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, gender, and development. We have protected the NHS, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. 

    Data sources for this release include: 

    • FTA economic impacts: [DBT Technical Note(https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-india-free-trade-agreement-technical-note)]: The preliminary economic impacts of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement 

    • India forecast to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India is the fastest growing economy in the world: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India and the UK are the fifth and sixth largest economies: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025 

    • 1.9 million people with Indian heritage live in the UK: ONS 2021 Census

    • UK services exports are worth over £500 billion: ONS UK trade February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Education Association files lawsuit challenging executive order banning federal workers’ right to collective bargaining

    Source: US National Education Union

    By: Staci Maiers and Adesuwa Wilson-Iguade

    Published: May 5, 2025

    WASHINGTON — The Federal Education Association, representing thousands of educators who work in schools on military bases operated by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), filed a lawsuit today challenging Donald Trump’s executive order stripping federal workers of their statutory and contractual collective bargaining rights. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, challenges the executive order as a violation of the First and Fifth Amendment rights of educators and their union under the U.S. Constitution, as well as an abuse of authority by both President Trump and his Defense Secretary, Peter Hegseth. 

    “DoDEA educators provide military-connected families with a world-class education, and they deserve to be respected and honored for their high levels of achievement — not have their rights taken away and their academic freedom trampled upon,” said FEA Executive Director Richard Tarr. “Trump’s executive order doesn’t just break the law; it violates the U.S. Constitution. The Trump administration is attacking the very people who serve this country by educating the children of our service members on military bases at home and around the world.”

    FEA members and other educators have used collective bargaining to advocate for student learning conditions, including smaller class sizes, more learning time, and increased staffing of school nurses, counselors, and mental health professionals. FEA filed the lawsuit with the Federal Education Association-Stateside Region and the Antilles Consolidated Education Association, joining other federal employee unions that have sued the Trump administration for the sweeping executive order. FEA is an affiliate of the National Education Association, the nation’s largest union with 3 million members.

    “By attacking the rights of educators working on military bases, the Trump administration is silencing the voices of teachers and staff who demand the tools, resources, and learning conditions that students need to thrive,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “Trump’s executive orders are not just illegal; they undermine the education and opportunities of children and families who have already sacrificed so much for our nation. We are not going to sit by silently.”

    Follow us on Bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/neapresident.bsky.social and https://bsky.app/profile/neatoday.bsky.social

    # # #

    About the Federal Education Association
    The Federal Education Association is a member-driven organization representing faculty and staff in the Department of Defense school system. With its headquarters in Washington, D.C., FEA is a global organization, representing thousands of Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) employees in Europe, Asia, the United States, and its territories. Our members include teachers and certified staff, Education Support Professionals (ESPs), and retirees. Find out more at www.feaonline.org.

    About the National Education Association
    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 6 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 6 May 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi today.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi today. 

    The leaders began by celebrating the landmark UK-India Free Trade Agreement announced today – a deal which will add billions to the UK economy, boost wages and deliver on this government’s Plan for Change. 

    In a huge economic win for the UK, delivering for working people and British businesses, the Prime Minister underscored the need to go further and faster to get things done, to secure and renew our country.

    Through pragmatism and purpose, the leaders noted that this historic deal is the biggest the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the most ambitious India has ever done. Prime Minister Modi also thanked the Prime Minister for his decisive leadership in getting the deal over the line. 

    Turning to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir last month, the Prime Minister reiterated his deep condolences at the tragic and senseless loss of life. 

    Finally, Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to India, which the Prime Minister was pleased to accept and said he looked forward to visiting India at the earliest opportunity.

    They looked forward to speaking soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. sustainable aviation fuel production takes off as new capacity comes online

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    May 6, 2025

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Petroleum Supply Monthly; company announcements and trade press
    Note: Other Biofuels includes sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), renewable heating oil, renewable naphtha, renewable propane, renewable gasoline, and other emerging biofuels that are in various stages of development and commercialization. SAF production capacity is an estimate based on company announcements and trade press and only includes hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids (HEFA) SAF. We do not publish SAF production capacity data.

    Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production is growing in the United States as new capacity comes online. U.S. production of Other Biofuels, the category we use to capture SAF in our Petroleum Supply Monthly, approximately doubled from December 2024 to February 2025.

    SAF is an alternative to petroleum jet fuel. It’s produced from agricultural and waste feedstocks and is consumed in blends with petroleum jet fuel. Investments in SAF have increased because of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), federal tax credits, and state programs and tax credits incentivizing use of the fuel.

    In addition to SAF, our Other Biofuels category includes renewable heating oil, renewable naphtha, renewable propane, renewable gasoline, and other emerging biofuels that are in various stages of development and commercialization.

    Prior to 2025, renewable naphtha and renewable propane, which are byproducts of renewable diesel production, made up most of Other Biofuels production and was growing because of growing renewable diesel production. SAF made up only a small portion of Other Biofuels production because of limited production capacity. At the beginning of 2024, U.S. SAF production capacity was only around 2,000 barrels per day (b/d), with just two plants capable of producing SAF: World Energy’s plant in Paramount, California, and Montana Renewables’ plant in Great Falls, Montana.

    U.S. SAF production capacity increased by about 25,000 b/d in late 2024. Phillips 66 completed its 10,000-b/d SAF project in Rodeo, California, in the third quarter of 2024 (3Q24), before temporarily halting production in 4Q24. Diamond Green Diesel completed its 15,000-b/d SAF project in Port Arthur, Texas, in 4Q24.

    A couple of smaller projects will bring additional SAF production capacity online in 2025. New Rise Renewables announced it began SAF production at its plant in Reno, Nevada, in February 2025, adding up to 3,000 b/d of SAF production. Par Pacific plans to begin SAF production at its plant in Kapolei, Hawaii, in the second half of the year, adding about 2,000 b/d of SAF production capacity.

    With SAF production capacity now around 30,000 b/d and growing in 2025, SAF will likely drive significant growth in Other Biofuels production and make up most of U.S. Other Biofuels production.

    In January, U.S. production of Other Biofuels reached 33,000 b/d, nearly 30% more than the previous record high set in September 2024. Production increased another 30% in February to 44,000 b/d. In our latest Short-Term Energy Outlook, we forecast that U.S. production of Other Biofuels will more than double between 2024 and 2025 and increase by about another 20% in 2026. Although we do not publish a forecast for each fuel that makes up the category, we expect increased SAF production to drive most of that growth. Despite strong growth in SAF on a percentage basis, the absolute volumes will remain relatively low, making up less than 2% of about 1.7 million b/d of U.S. jet fuel consumption in 2025 and about 2% in 2026.

    Principal contributor: Jimmy Troderman

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Light Beer Expands into Florida with North Florida Sales Distribution Agreement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nashville, TN, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is proud to announce its newest distribution agreement with North Florida Sales (nfsinfo.com), a premier beverage distributor serving the Northeast Florida market. This collaboration and expansion into Florida is another bold step in American Rebel’s mission to bring high-quality, American-made beer to hardworking, freedom-loving patriots across the Sunshine State.

    “We believe in the American dream – hard work, perseverance, and celebrating the freedoms that make this country great,” said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. “Partnering with North Florida Sales allows us to share that spirit with more people in Florida. Their commitment to excellence, combined with their deep-rooted relationships in the market, makes them the perfect ally in our mission to expand American Rebel’s presence nationwide.”

    Gentry Pelham, President and Owner of North Florida Sales, echoed that enthusiasm, stating: “North Florida Sales is extremely excited for the opportunity to partner up with American Rebel. We can’t wait to introduce this amazing product to the Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Lake City markets.”

    North Florida Sales has long been recognized for its dedication to delivering quality beverages while building lasting partnerships with retailers and consumers. With an extensive network and a passion for serving their communities, they will help bring American Rebel Light Beer to even more bars, restaurants, and stores across Florida.

    “We’re very excited to be expanding into Florda,” said American Rebel CEO Andy Ross. “American Rebel Beer sponsored the Scag Pro Superstar Shootout this past February at the Bradenton Motorsports Park and I’ve done television interviews in Tampa, West Palm Beach and Miami and performed in Florida several times. Look out Florida, America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer is coming. Florida is going to be a strong state for us and I couldn’t be more proud to get to work with the great team at North Florida Sales.”

    As American Rebel Beverage continues its rapid growth, the brand remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting patriotic values and celebrating the American spirit. Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has earned loyal consumers across Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Indiana, Mississippi and now Florida – proving that there’s nothing more American than great beer and a good time.

    American Rebel Light is a proudly American-made premium domestic light lager, delivering a crisp, clean, and bold taste with a lighter feel. Crafted with all-natural ingredients and NO added sweeteners like corn or rice, it offers a refreshing balance of flavor with 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% ABV per 12 oz serving. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a tailgate, or a weekend at the racetrack, American Rebel Light is brewed for the bold, the free, and the proud.

    For more information about American Rebel Light and its new distribution agremeent with North Florida Sales, follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer or on the web at americanrebelbeer.com.

    About American Rebel Light

    American Rebel Light isn’t just a beer – it’s a statement. A toast to freedom, a salute to hard-working Americans, and a bold declaration of our patriotic values. As America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer, Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a premium domestic light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers. For more information follow American Rebel Beer on all social media platforms (@americanrebelbeer).

    About North Florida Sales

    North Florida Sales (NFS) is a locally owned and operated company and covers all or part of 11 counties in Florida. These counties include Duval, Nassau, St. John’s, Putnam, Clay, Bradford, Union, Baker, Columbia, Hamilton and Suwannee. Started in 1995, NFS strives to be a leader in sales and service in the beverage industry in Jacksonville and Lake City, FL. NFS’s mission is to provide the highest quality customer service on a consistent basis, while ensuring the availability of the freshest and cleanest product possible. For more information on North Florida Sales, go to nfsinfo.com.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    info@americanrebel.com
     ir@americanrebel.com

    Media Contact:
    Matt Sheldon
    Matt@PrecisionPR.co

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of our strategic planning, marketing outreach efforts, actual placement timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, March 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $140.5 billion in March, up $17.3 billion from $123.2 billion in February, revised.

    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
    Deficit: $140.5 Billion +14.0%°
    Exports: $278.5 Billion +0.2%°
    Imports: $419.0 Billion +4.4%°

    Next release: Thursday, June 5, 2025

    (°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, May 6, 2025

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    March exports were $278.5 billion, $0.5 billion more than February exports. March imports were $419.0 billion, $17.8 billion more than February imports.

    The March increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $16.5 billion to $163.5 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $0.8 billion to $23.0 billion.

    Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $189.6 billion, or 92.6 percent, from the same period in 2024. Exports increased $41.1 billion or 5.2 percent. Imports increased $230.7 billion or 23.3 percent.

    Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)

    The average goods and services deficit increased $14.1 billion to $131.4 billion for the three months ending in March.

    • Average exports increased $4.0 billion to $275.7 billion in March.
    • Average imports increased $18.1 billion to $407.1 billion in March.

    Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $63.2 billion from the three months ending in March 2024.

    • Average exports increased $13.7 billion from March 2024.
    • Average imports increased $76.9 billion from March 2024.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods increased $1.3 billion to $183.2 billion in March.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis increased $2.5 billion.

    • Industrial supplies and materials increased $2.2 billion.
      • Natural gas increased $0.8 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold increased $0.7 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $1.2 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $0.9 billion.
    • Capital goods decreased $1.5 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $0.7 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $1.2 billion.

    Exports of services decreased $0.9 billion to $95.2 billion in March.

    • Travel decreased $1.3 billion.
    • Transport increased $0.3 billion.
    • Financial services increased $0.2 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods increased $17.8 billion to $346.8 billion in March.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis increased $17.8 billion.

    • Consumer goods increased $22.5 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $20.9 billion.
    • Capital goods increased $3.7 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $2.0 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $2.6 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $2.1 billion.
    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $10.7 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $10.3 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Crude oil decreased $1.2 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased less than $0.1 billion.

    Imports of services decreased $0.1 billion to $72.2 billion in March.

    • Travel decreased $0.4 billion.
    • Transport increased $0.2 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $14.0 billion, or 10.2 percent, to $150.9 billion in March, compared to a 10.3 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods increased $2.4 billion, or 1.6 percent, to $149.7 billion, compared to a 1.4 percent increase in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods increased $16.4 billion, or 5.8 percent, to $300.6 billion, compared to a 5.5 percent increase in nominal imports.

    Revisions

    Revisions to February exports

    • Exports of goods were revised down less than $0.1 billion.
    • Exports of services were revised down $0.4 billion.

    Revisions to February imports

    • Imports of goods were revised up less than $0.1 billion.
    • Imports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)

    The March figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($4.5), South and Central America ($3.2), Hong Kong ($1.9), United Kingdom ($1.2), Singapore ($0.5), Brazil ($0.5), and Saudi Arabia ($0.2). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with European Union ($48.3), Ireland ($29.3), China ($24.8), Mexico ($16.8), Switzerland ($14.7), Vietnam ($14.1), Taiwan ($8.7), India ($7.7), Germany ($7.5), South Korea ($6.8), Japan ($5.8), Canada ($4.9), Italy ($4.4), France ($3.9), Malaysia ($3.2), Australia ($1.0), Israel ($1.0), and Belgium ($0.1).

    • The deficit with Ireland increased $15.3 billion to $29.3 billion in March. Exports increased $0.1 billion to $1.4 billion and imports increased $15.5 billion to $30.7 billion.
    • The deficit with France increased $2.4 billion to $3.9 billion in March. Exports increased $0.1 billion to $4.0 billion and imports increased $2.6 billion to $7.9 billion.
    • The deficit with Switzerland decreased $4.1 billion to $14.7 billion in March. Exports increased $1.1 billion to $3.5 billion and imports decreased $3.0 billion to $18.3 billion.

    All statistics referenced are seasonally adjusted; statistics are on a balance of payments basis unless otherwise specified. Additional statistics, including not seasonally adjusted statistics and details for goods on a Census basis, are available in exhibits 1-20b of this release. For information on data sources, definitions, and revision procedures, see the explanatory notes in this release. The full release can be found at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/Press-Release/current_press_release/index.html or www.bea.gov/data/intl-trade-investment/international-trade-goods-and-services. The full schedule is available in the Census Bureau’s Economic Briefing Room at www.census.gov/economic-indicators/ or on BEA’s website at www.bea.gov/news/schedule.

    Next release: June 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, April 2025

    Notice

    Country Name Changes

    With this release of the “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services” report, references to “Congo (Brazzaville)” and “Congo (Kinshasa)” are replaced with “Congo” and “Democratic Republic of the Congo,” respectively, to reflect the countries’ recent name changes. These changes also align with the names recognized by the U.S. Department of State and the International Organization for Standardization.

    Impact of Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Release of CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM)

    The CBSA introduced a new accounting system (CARM) on October 21, 2024. As a result, importers in Canada have experienced delays in filing shipment information. These delays affected the compilation of statistics on U.S. exports of goods to Canada for September 2024 through February 2025, which are derived from data compiled by Canada through the United States – Canada Data Exchange. A dollar estimate of the filing backlog is included in estimates for late receipts and, following the U.S. Census Bureau’s customary practice for late receipt estimates, is included in the export end-use category “Other goods” as well as in exports to Canada. This estimate will be replaced with the actual transactions reported by the Harmonized System classification in June 2025 with the release of “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, Annual Revision.” Until then, please refer to the supplemental spreadsheet “CARM Exports to Canada Corrections,” which provides a breakdown of the late receipts by 1-digit end-use category for statistics through 2024. This spreadsheet will be updated as late export transactions are received to reflect reassignments from the initial “Other goods” category to the appropriate 1-digit end-use category. Any 2025 impacts will be revised in June 2026.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on 800-549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov.

    Upcoming Updates to Goods and Services

    With the releases of the “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services” report (FT-900) and the FT-900 Annual Revision on June 5, 2025, statistics on trade in goods, on both a Census basis and a balance of payments (BOP) basis, will be revised beginning with 2020 and statistics on trade in services will be revised beginning with 2018. The revised statistics for goods on a BOP basis and for services will also be included in the “U.S. International Transactions, 1st Quarter 2025 and Annual Update” report and in the international transactions interactive database, both to be released by BEA on June 24, 2025.

    Revised statistics on trade in goods will reflect:

    • Corrections and adjustments to previously published not seasonally adjusted statistics for goods on a Census basis.
    • End-use reclassifications of several commodities.
    • Recalculated seasonal and trading-day adjustments.
    • Newly available and revised source data on BOP adjustments, which are adjustments that BEA applies to goods on a Census basis to convert them to a BOP basis. See the “Goods (balance of payments basis)” section in the explanatory notes for more information.

    Revised statistics on trade in services will reflect:

    • Newly available and revised source data, primarily from BEA surveys of international services.
    • Corrections and adjustments to previously published not seasonally adjusted statistics.
    • Recalculated seasonal adjustments.
    • Revised temporal distributions of quarterly source data to monthly statistics. See the “Services” section in the explanatory notes for more information.

    For more information, see “Preview of the 2025 Annual Update of the International Economic Accounts” in the Survey of Current Business.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on (800) 549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov or BEA, Balance of Payments Division, at InternationalAccounts@bea.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: 3D Systems’ NextDent® Material Portfolio Addressing Broadest Set of Patient-specific Indications

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • 3D Systems’ NextDent branded dental materials have set the benchmark for quality and aesthetics, addressing the broadest set of patient-specific dental solutions in the world
    • NextDent materials form the foundation for 3D Systems’ dental ‘repair’ offerings with regulatory approvals across the US, Europe and Asia
    • Industry’s largest portfolio of dental 3D printing materials seamlessly integrates with leading dental 3D printers across the industry, enabling improved production efficiency and aesthetics, reduced labor costs, and expanded service offerings
    • 3D Systems’ solutions for the ‘repair’ market are integral to its dental strategy, as the market is expected to be worth approximately $150 million by 2029
    • 3D Systems’ Digital Dentistry Solutions are catalyzing the adoption of 3D printing — serving more than one million patients

    ROCK HILL, S.C., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 3D Systems’ (NYSE: DDD) Digital Dentistry Solutions are helping dental laboratories and clinics efficiently deliver patient-specific devices to straighten, protect, repair, and replace teeth with high precision. 3D printing combined with advanced dental materials can now provide individually customized patient solutions faster, better and at a lower cost than conventional technologies. The Company has cemented its leadership in Digital Dentistry by providing the most extensive portfolio of integrated solutions. At the core of 3D Systems’ strategy is a portfolio of NextDent® materials that are engineered to address the most comprehensive range of patient-specific indications. The Company’s deep experience and expertise — which includes nearly a century of pioneering dental material development — enables the production of custom prosthetics for the repair of teeth such as crowns and bridges that provide a precise fit, enhanced durability, and cost-effective results.

    3D Systems’ portfolio of clinically validated NextDent 3D printing resins now address more than 30 applications, including those focused on repairing teeth. This includes materials such as NextDent C&B MFH (Micro Filled Hybrid). This material has been developed for crowns and bridges, and engineered to efficiently produce strong, durable patient-specific devices. 3D Systems has also added a third-party material which shares the Company’s commitment to the highest quality standards to its portfolio to support an ever-increasing range of solutions for the ‘repair’ of teeth. In 2022, 3D Systems announced a partnership with Saremco Dental AG, and in so doing, made Saremco’s CROWNTEC™ material available for its NextDent 3D printers to produce patient-specific permanent crowns.

    3D Systems’ NextDent materials are compatible with the Company’s 3D printing technologies — NextDent 5100 and NextDent LCD1 — and are also validated to integrate with a variety of industry-leading dental 3D printers. Opening its materials portfolio to use with other renowned dental 3D printers helps lower the barrier to adoption by enabling more print solutions to capitalize on the rich legacy and expertise of the NextDent portfolio. NextDent materials for medical devices are fully biocompatible and carry all of the required regulatory clearances in many jurisdictions around the world.

    “3D Systems has been recognized for decades as an industry-leader in Digital Dentistry innovation,” said Dr. Jeffrey Graves, president & CEO, 3D Systems. “With the broadest range of technology in our industry and our strategic focus on dentistry, we are perfectly positioned to drive widespread adoption across all dental applications. Our mission is to be the leader in all aspects of dentistry, providing the highest-quality solutions to straighten, protect, repair and replace teeth for patients around the world. Our efforts in the ‘repair’ space are foundational to our business, which is deeply rooted in the rich history of the NextDent brand. Our validated 3D printing workflows featuring our industry-leading materials and empower dental labs and clinics to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and expand their service offerings, ensuring scalability and a competitive edge. Ultimately, our advanced solutions deliver better-fitting, longer-lasting, and aesthetically superior dental prosthetics, enhancing patients’ confidence and quality of life. Our continued focus on R&D enables the development of ever-improving solutions designed to rapidly meet the diverse patient needs.”

    According to internal market estimates, applications for the ‘repair’ pillar of 3D Systems’ dental strategy in the United States alone represent an approximately $150 million addressable market by 2029. The U.S. market is estimated to be roughly one-third of the total available global market. When combined with the markets for ‘straighten’ (approximately $125 million), ‘protect’ (approximately $150 million) and ‘replace’ (approximately $600 million), the U.S. Dental market represents a nearly $1 billion opportunity for the integration of 3D printing technology.

    3D Systems’ Digital Dentistry Solutions are integral to catalyzing the adoption of 3D printing — serving more than one million patients. The Company’s solutions for ‘repair’ applications include 3D printing materials, 3D printing technology (i.e., NextDent 5100, NextDent LCD1, DMP Flex 200), additive manufacturing software (i.e., 3D Sprint, 3DXpert) and deep applications expertise. For more information, please visit the Company’s website.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements made in this release that are not statements of historical or current facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from historical results or from any future results or projections expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In many cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as “believes,” “belief,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “estimates,” “intends,” “anticipates” or “plans” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are based upon management’s beliefs, assumptions, and current expectations and may include comments as to the company’s beliefs and expectations as to future events and trends affecting its business and are necessarily subject to uncertainties, many of which are outside the control of the company. The factors described under the headings “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in the company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as other factors, could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected or predicted in forward-looking statements. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not, and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of future performance or results, nor will they necessarily prove to be accurate indications of the times at which such performance or results will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included are made only as of the date of the statement. 3D Systems undertakes no obligation to update or review any forward-looking statements made by management or on its behalf, whether as a result of future developments, subsequent events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by law.

    About 3D Systems
    More than 35 years ago, Chuck Hull’s curiosity and desire to improve the way products were designed and manufactured gave birth to 3D printing, 3D Systems, and the additive manufacturing industry. Since then, that same spark continues to ignite the 3D Systems team as we work side-by-side with our customers to change the way industries innovate. As a full-service solutions partner, we deliver industry-leading 3D printing technologies, materials and software to high-value markets such as medical and dental; aerospace, space and defense; transportation and motorsports; AI infrastructure; and durable goods. Each application-specific solution is powered by the expertise and passion of our employees who endeavor to achieve our shared goal of Transforming Manufacturing for a Better Future. More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com.

    Investor Contact:   investor.relations@3dsystems.com
    Media Contact:      press@3dsystems.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Banzai Secures Expanded Agreement with RBC Capital Markets for OpenReel Enterprise License

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banzai International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BNZI) (“Banzai” or the “Company”), a leading marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions, today announced it has expanded its agreement with RBC Capital Markets.

    As part of the expanded agreement, RBC Capital Markets’ Wealth Marketing Division will have an enterprise license for usage of OpenReel, Banzai’s leading digital video creation platform.

    “This agreement reinforces our strategy of expansion in the enterprise,” said Joe Davy, Founder and CEO of Banzai. “Having already been working with RBC Global Asset Management, this deal shows movement throughout the enterprise into the wealth marketing division, doubling our current engagement and validating our growth in the enterprise space. We are seeing solid traction in the financial sector, where the OpenReel Creator tool gives global financial firms the ability to offer standardized branded video with personalization at scale for their wealth managers, partners, and other stakeholders.”

    OpenReel empowers organizations to efficiently produce high-quality, branded video content at scale. Its platform enables users to remotely direct, record, edit, and collaborate on professional-grade video projects, significantly streamlining the production process and ensuring brand consistency. OpenReel serves a global enterprise client base, including industry leaders like Bristol Myers Squibb, Ingram Micro, DXC Technology, Insider Inc., and US Steel.

    About RBC Capital Markets

    The most significant corporations, institutional investors, asset managers, private equity firms, and governments around the globe recognize RBC Capital Markets as an innovative, trusted partner with an in-depth expertise in capital markets, banking, and finance. We are well-established in the largest, most mature capital markets across North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region, which collectively encompasses 80% of the global investment banking fee pool.

    RBC Capital Markets is part of a leading provider of financial services, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Founded in 1864, RBC is one of the largest banks in the world and the fifth largest in North America, as measured by market capitalization. With a strong capital base and consistent financial performance, RBC is among a small group of highly rated global banks. Learn more at rbccm.com.

    We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact.

    About Banzai

    Banzai is a marketing technology company that provides AI-enabled marketing and sales solutions for businesses of all sizes. On a mission to help their customers grow, Banzai enables companies of all sizes to target, engage, and measure both new and existing customers more effectively. Customers who use Banzai’s product suite include Autodesk, Dell Technologies, New York Life, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Thinkific, and ActiveCampaign, among thousands of others. Learn more at www.banzai.io. For investors, please visit https://ir.banzai.io.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often use words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “target,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “propose,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar variations and expressions. Forward-looking statements are those that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Examples of forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding Banzai International, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”): future financial, business and operating performance and goals; annualized recurring revenue and customer retention; ongoing, future or ability to maintain or improve its financial position, cash flows, and liquidity and its expected financial needs; potential financing and ability to obtain financing; acquisition strategy and proposed acquisitions and, if completed, their potential success and financial contributions; strategy and strategic goals, including being able to capitalize on opportunities; expectations relating to the Company’s industry, outlook and market trends; total addressable market and serviceable addressable market and related projections; plans, strategies and expectations for retaining existing or acquiring new customers, increasing revenue and executing growth initiatives; and product areas of focus and additional products that may be sold in the future. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity and development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the markets in which the Company operates, customer demand, the financial markets, economic, business and regulatory and other factors, such as the Company’s ability to execute on its strategy. More detailed information about risk factors can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the heading “Risk Factors,” and in other reports filed by the Company, including reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake any duty to update forward-looking statements after the date of this press release.

    Investor Relations
    Chris Tyson
    Executive Vice President
    MZ Group – MZ North America
    949-491-8235
    BNZI@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    Media
    Nancy Norton
    Chief Legal Officer, Banzai
    media@banzai.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sagtec Global Secures US$30 Million Revenue Pipeline Through Exclusive UAE Partnership, Accelerating Global Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sagtec Global Limited (NASDAQ: SAGT) (“Sagtec” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customizable software solutions, today announced its international growth strategy through the signing of a Master Dealership Agreement with SMD Tech – FZCO (“SMD Tech”), a premier technology distributor based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

    Under the terms of the agreement, SMD Tech is appointed as Sagtec’s exclusive master dealer for its flagship Speed+ Cloud-Based Smart Ordering System (“Speed+”) across Dubai with a firm commitment to purchase a minimum of 10,000 software licenses over the next five years. This translates into an expected revenue pipeline of no less than US$30 million, substantially enhancing Sagtec’s long-term recurring revenue visibility and global market penetration.

    Speed+, Sagtec’s cloud-native ordering platform, is purpose-built to transform operations in the retail and food & beverage (F&B) sectors – delivering seamless order processing, real-time analytics, and automated customer engagement. The platform’s relevance is further underscored by regional digital momentum. According to PwC Middle East, the UAE’s digital economy is projected to contribute over US$140 billion to gross domestic product (GDP) by 2031, driven by government-led innovation and enterprise digitalization. Dubai, in particularly, has emerged as a key innovation hub, fueled by substantial investments in cloud infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and smart city technologies.

    Supporting this backdrop, Statista forecasts the UAE’s F&B market will surpass US$37 billion by 2030, propelled by rising consumer expectations for digital convenience and operational efficiency. In parallel, Grand View Research projects the Middle East’s cloud-based point of sale (POS) market will grow at a 19% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2030, reaching approximately US$1 billion. These converging treads points to an urgent demand for integrated platforms like Speed+, which empower businesses to streamline ordering, enhance customer engagement, and scale operations efficiently, making this the ideal time for Sagtec’s market entry.

    “This agreement unlocks a predictable multi-year revenue stream and positions Sagtec as a key digital enabler in the Middle East’s F&B transformation. With Speed+ backed by SMD Tech’s local market expertise, we are not only capturing market share but laying the groundwork for long-term Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) dominance in the region,” said Kevin Ng, Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sagtec.

    About Sagtec Global Limited

    Sagtec is a leading provider of customizable software solutions, primarily serving the Food & Beverage (F&B) sector. The Company also offers software development, data management, and social media management to enhance operational efficiency across various industries. Additionally, Sagtec operates power-bank charging stations at 300 locations across Malaysia through its subsidiary, CL Technology (International) Sdn Bhd.

    For more information on the Company, please log on to https://www.sagtec-global.com/.

    About SMD Tech – FZCO

    SMD Tech – FZCO is a technology-focused enterprise based in the United Arab Emirates, specializing in digital infrastructure, IoT solutions, and enterprise transformation. With a mission to empower businesses through innovative software and hardware integration, SMD Tech delivers cutting-edge solutions tailored to the region’s fast-evolving digital ecosystem. The company is committed to driving operational excellence and future-ready growth for its clients.

    Contact Information:

    Sagtec Global Limited Contact:
    Ng Chen Lok
    Chairman, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: +6011-6217 3661
    Email: info@sagtec-global.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The timeless appeal of We’ll Meet Again underscores people’s need for sentimentality

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Clare V. Church, Fellow of the Institute of Historical Research, School of Advanced Study, University of London

    It begins with just a few gentle flourishes from the orchestra before the honey-voiced singer launches into the chorus. Her words are instantly familiar to listeners, who sing along without having to search for the lyrics on their smartphones or strain their voices to remain in key. The song’s simplicity is its boon and its enduring message of softness and sentimentality its raison d’être.

    More than 85 years after its release, We’ll Meet Again – made famous by singer Vera Lynn – continues to resonate with listeners, whether they experienced the second world war or not. In fact, as we head into the 80th anniversary of the war’s end, it is one song that is sure to be at the top of all British commemorative playlists.

    While embarking on this next year of remembrance, it is important to question why this song echoes so resoundingly across time and space. Why is it that, after all these years, we continue to meet We’ll Meet Again again, and again and again?

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    Written by Ross Parker and Hughie Charles, We’ll Meet Again was first recoded by Lynn in 1939. Its chorus is as follows:

    We’ll meet again, don’t know where, don’t know when, but I’ll know we’ll meet again some sunny day.

    Keep smiling through, just like you, always do, ‘til the blue skies chase those dark clouds far away.

    In the early war, Lynn performed the song – as well as other wistful tunes – at palladiums across the country and over the radio. She gained a reputation as a “sweet singer of sweet songs” and was soon after bestowed the moniker “the Forces’ sweetheart”.

    By 1941, Lynn hosted her own BBC radio show named Sincerely Yours, described by Radio Times as a “letter in words and music” to fighting men. After reading messages from munitions girls to their husbands and congratulations to new fathers in the military, Lynn signed off the show crooning We’ll Meet Again, authenticating the song as her signature.

    Throughout the remainder of the war, she performed the song over the radio and in film (including in the fittingly titled We’ll Meet Again in 1943) as well as in concerts as far afield as Myanmar.

    Vera Lynn performing We’ll Meet Again in 1943.

    However, the song was not met with universal acceptance. Some, including parliamentarian Earl Winterton, believed that Lynn’s song harmed soldier morale, arguing that its emotional message deflated appetite for the war. Diarists for Mass Observation – a social research project launched in 1937 that collected journal entries from volunteer citizens – repeated this idea. One diarist claimed that Lynn’s songs were “too intimate for broadcasting” and another called her catalogue “carefully written sob stuff”.

    But just as some criticised, others came to her defence. Gunner A. E. Buckeridge, for example, scorned Winterton in Union Jack magazine for taking it “upon himself to decide what the men should like”. Frank Owen of the South East Asia Command similarly wrote that Lynn’s crooning “really hits the heart” and thanked her for ameliorating “the abiding home sickness” of soldiers.

    The debate did not centre on whether We’ll Meet Again was sentimental. Rather, it questioned if such sentimentality helped or hindered fighting men.

    By 1945, many listeners sat in the former camp, contending that We’ll Meet Again eased war’s hardships by reminding listeners of their home and humanity. In fact, it would be the song’s ability to do this that would propel its popularity to new heights in the following decades.

    Post-war resonance

    Following the end of hostilities, the ballad proliferated across media, genres and audiences. It was referenced in a wide range of films and television series, including Dr Strangelove (1964), Muppets Go to the Movies (1981) and even Stranger Things (2016).

    Other musicians covered the song too, including Frank Sinatra and Johnny Cash. Pink Floyd’s song Vera (1979) even contained the lyrics: “Does anybody here remember Vera Lynn? / Remember how she said that we would meet again some sunny day?”

    The song was also used in war-related commemorative events and political addresses. This includes Queen Elizabeth II’s April 2020 broadcast that discussed the burgeoning COVID crisis and asserted: “We will be with our friends again; we will be with our families again; we will meet again.”

    So, what is it about this song that has maintained such longevity in the national consciousness?

    In many post-war recollections, veterans especially praised the song’s emotionality. In a 1996 oral history interview, for instance, veteran George William Ledger remembered how grown men were brought to tears after listening to Lynn. He recalled that “when Vera Lynn got up and sang on that stage … it was quiet, you could hear a pin drop”. He added that her songs were especially powerful because they “dwelt on the emotions of people”.

    In select accounts within the BBC’s WW2 People’s War Project, this theme was reiterated. One contributor wrote that Lynn was so popular because she “entertained us … with her very emotional songs”. Another writer claimed that We’ll Meet Again raised the morale of the troops “who knew how near was a terrifying death”.

    Even comments made on the song’s YouTube page reference its emotional resonance, with one user writing: “Played this song for my dad over skype (81) years old with Alzheimer’s. He knew word for word with tears streaming. Bless him.”

    These recollections serve as a poignant reminder of the power of sentimentality and giving people the permission to emote during times of struggle. The song – both during the war and after – provided safely contained moments to embrace softness.

    Typically, when you think of a “war song”, you might be tempted to think of a military march, full of brazen boasts of strength and stoicism – both of which are characteristics commonly tied to narratives of war and heroism.

    But the enduring resonance of We’ll Meet Again underlines the timeless testament of another set of heroic virtues: softness and sentimentality. The song demonstrates that in times of incredible hardship and trauma, all people require spaces to ache, mourn and feel.

    Clare V. Church does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The timeless appeal of We’ll Meet Again underscores people’s need for sentimentality – https://theconversation.com/the-timeless-appeal-of-well-meet-again-underscores-peoples-need-for-sentimentality-253505

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How a community-focused vision for net zero can revive local economies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Max Lacey-Barnacle, Senior Research Fellow, Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex

    Kampan/Shutterstock

    Across the world, the transition to a green economy is under threat. Growing antipathy towards the costs of tackling climate change, stoked especially by right-wing populists, undermines ambitions to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

    In the UK, leader of the opposition Kemi Badenoch recently described achieving net zero by 2050 as “impossible”, stating that it would bankrupt the country. Reform, a major rival to the right of Badenoch’s Conservative party want to scrap the UK’s net zero targets altogether.

    A new vision of net zero is urgently needed. To help fund the UK’s transition to a green economy, the UK government seeks to attract private investment from international corporations that are not based in the UK.

    The Indian company Tata Group is investing £4 billion in eletric vehicles (EVs) and battery production in the UK. Danish company Orsted has invested £15 billion in UK offshore windfarms in the last decade. French company EDF Energy has invested £4.5 billion in net zero technologies and infrastructure in the UK.

    This approach comes with considerable risks. Profits can be extracted out of local economies, which benefits the shareholders of international corporations, not UK businesses.

    Ownership can also change between private entities and move even further afield. Last year, Orsted sold stakes in four UK offshore wind farms to a Canadian investment company.

    UCL climate scientist Mark Maslin explains net zero.

    But there’s an alternative that directly strengthens the resilience of the UK’s economy. Community wealth building is a model of economic development that ensures any profits generated from new green industries is recirculated within the local economy.

    To make this happen, communities need support from so-called “anchor institutions”. These are large organisations that are “anchored” to their local economy and cannot relocate, because their ownership structure is tied to a particular location. Think universities, hospitals or local government institutions.

    Within this approach, anchor institutions procure goods and services from nearby suppliers, so they circulate money locally and strengthen regional supply chains.

    This concept originated over a decade ago in the US. It’s since been applied in Canada, Australia, Ireland and the Netherlands.

    For the past four years, I’ve been exploring how community wealth building is becoming embedded in the UK’s fast-growing green economy.

    UK anchors and the green economy

    In north-west England, Preston city council retained the procurement spend of anchor institutions located in Preston city to the tune of £112.3 million in 2020 – £74 million more than in 2012/13.

    In Oldham in northern England, the council supported the development of community-led energy plans in two neighbourhoods, Sholver and Westwood. The plans outlined what a decarbonised heat, electricity and transport system would look like for each area. The council launched a website to share energy efficiency advice. The council also helped to set up two local community energy projects.

    Oldham Community Power installed solar panels on five primary schools and a community building to reduce their energy bills. Saddleworth Community Hydro have used excess profits from the sale of renewable electricity in 2023 to fund £58,000 worth of local sustainability projects.

    Some local councils in the UK are adopting a community wealth building approach.
    witsarut sakorn/Shutterstock

    The council in Lewes in southern England have committed to using community wealth building to transition towards net zero. Hundreds of houses have been retrofitted to increase their energy efficiency, with retrofit contracts arranged with local companies. EVs are being used to collect food waste. New sustainable housing is being built by local tradespeople using locally sourced materials wherever possible.

    The Lewes Climate Hub hosts community events and green business workshops in a council-owned property. Procurement spend by local anchor institutions has also doubled from £5m in 2020 to £10m in 2024.

    In North Ayrshire, Scotland, two municipally owned solar PV farms on council-owned land have generated a £13 million budget surplus. This has been redirected towards addressing fuel poverty by making low-income homes more energy efficient. The council’s new green jobs fund has supported over £1.14 million of investment into 65 businesses to enable a range of sustainability related measures.

    Encouragingly, more plans to bring together community wealth building and net zero continue to emerge. In London, partnerships between anchor institutions and community energy organisations could be integral to developing 1,000 community energy projects across the capital by 2030.

    Successful scale-up of community wealth building will require strong leadership, political commitments and supporting strategies that align with the green economy. Already, some initiatives are beginning to generate wealth through the green economy and keeping it in local communities, rather than ownership and profits going to distant corporations.

    To counter a rising opposition to net zero in the UK, prioritising community-focused visions that revive local economies will be vital.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Max Lacey-Barnacle receives funding from The British Academy.

    – ref. How a community-focused vision for net zero can revive local economies – https://theconversation.com/how-a-community-focused-vision-for-net-zero-can-revive-local-economies-252955

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arooj Rashid, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Nottingham Trent University

    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    US president Donald Trump has a particular look. Sharp navy suits, overly long ties and crisp white shirts, always structured to command attention. It’s a power uniform rooted in a very traditional idea of masculine elegance. Trump wants it to look expensive, meticulously crafted, consistent, and entirely his own.

    Behind the populist slogans and “Buy American” rhetoric, this president has long embraced symbols of global luxury. While he’s worn American tailoring from Brooklyn’s Martin Greenfield – a craftsman who has dressed everyone from Barack Obama to Colin Powell – he has also been a longstanding customer of Brioni, an exclusive Italian brand of tailored clothing.

    So, while campaigning for American-made goods Trump has for years enjoyed the prestige of the “Made in Italy” tag, and the luxurious connotations it brings to menswear.

    But his trade policies have done the opposite for the global fashion industry. By threatening massive trade tariffs on countries like China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, he has potentially created chaos for both the industry and consumers.

    Traditionally, what’s known as “country of origin” has been represented by the “made in” label, a key branding tool that can shape consumer perceptions of product quality and other attributes. However, as globalisation has led to the outsourcing of design, materials and production, the definition has become increasingly complex.

    “Designed in” and “country of brand origin” have come to define prestigious product qualities, while country image is used to reflect perceptions of a nation and its products. For example, “designed in Italy” often evokes craftsmanship and luxury in fashion goods. Similarly, Germany has a historical reputation for excellence in producing cars. And “Japanese brand origin” is associated with cutting-edge technology and reliability, particularly in electronics and vehicles.

    Two decades ago, as production costs in the US and Europe mounted, clothing production moved to Asia. While China has remained an important supplier, trade tensions saw production move to countries including Vietnam, India and Bangladesh in the early mid-2010s. But with the threat of new tariffs on these countries, brands are scrambling again.

    This time they have far fewer alternatives. And for companies that rely on the storytelling behind where a garment is made, this isn’t just a supply chain headache. It’s an identity crisis.

    ‘Made in Italy’ – like Trump’s Brioni suits – conveys more than just the country of manufacture.
    Northfoto/Shutterstock

    In fashion, a garment’s origin is not merely a logistical detail – it’s part of its identity. Labels like “made in Italy”, “made in India” or “made in Bangladesh” carry different connotations. These could be luxury and craftsmanship – embroidery skills, for example – or affordability at scale.

    Over time, brands have cultivated these country associations as part of their marketing strategies, shaping consumer perception and trust. The result is a strategic decision for fashion companies, which must now consider cost and efficiency and how changing suppliers might affect their brand’s perceived values and identity.

    For example, brands like H&M and Levi Strauss & Co. have promoted their ethical sourcing in India or partnerships in Pakistan due to their expertise. But now they risk being taxed extensively. So what is the solution?

    The impact on consumers

    The growing risk of new trade rules and tariffs is making it harder for countries that supply fashion goods to stay competitive.

    First, brands must re-assess globalisation of the fashion industry and develop alternative supply chains. While a quick shift may be possible for simpler fashion products, relocating production for more complex or premium goods is usually a long-term investment. As a result, brands will be investigating country images that are perceived to be trusted and trustworthy as trading partners.

    But one unexpected outcome of these policies may be the return of European production and the emergence of “safe” sourcing locations in countries less exposed to trading restrictions. This could be Portugal and Romania for mid-market clothing, and Italy for high-end fashion goods. These would be more predictable and offer a globally recognised brand image.

    Heritage clothing brand Barbour still manufactures some of its lines in the UK.
    Robert Way/Shutterstock

    For some companies, shifting production to Italy will allow them to maintain product prestige while avoiding some of the eye-watering tariffs threatened for some Asian countries. Meanwhile others may look to move back to the UK because of its association with younger, niche markets.

    This won’t necessarily make clothing cheaper for consumers. It does though offer a level of reassurance, especially for higher-end or mid-market labels looking to preserve their image amid instability.

    Trump’s own affinity for Brioni reflects this implicit value. Though his public rhetoric prioritised American manufacturing, his choice of a luxury Italian tailor speaks to a broader truth: country image matters. And in fashion, it can be everything.

    The consequences of these trade policies are now visible across the fashion ecosystem. For example, American brands like Everlane and Pact are built around affordability and transparency. They rely on production in south or south-east Asia, and now face the challenge of rising costs.

    Larger companies will be rethinking pricing strategies, renegotiating contracts or halting expansion in regions hardest hit by tariffs.

    For consumers, this could mean higher prices and reduced variety. The label inside a garment now tells a more complex story – not only of where it was made but also of the political and economic forces shaping global trade.

    Even if these tariffs are eventually reduced or reversed, the disruption they have caused has already left a mark. They have redefined the meaning and importance of country-of-origin labels, exposed the fragility of global supply chains, and placed new pressure on brands to balance ethics, economics and image in a volatile environment. In fashion, where identity is crafted through fabric and narrative, the story behind the label has never mattered more.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains – https://theconversation.com/trump-likes-to-know-where-his-suits-come-from-his-tariffs-could-now-upend-the-worlds-fashion-supply-chains-255337

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Even a capped, time-limited youth visa scheme would be of value to young people in the UK and EU

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Johanna L. Waters, Professor of Human Geography, UCL

    EF Stock/Shutterstock

    More than 60 Labour MPs have signed a letter calling on the government to support a youth mobility agreement with the EU.

    The letter called for a visa scheme that would be time limited and capped. This would be in line with other youth mobility agreements that the UK has with a number of countries and territories, including Australia and South Korea.

    Mobility would be for a defined period (such as three years), and the number of visas issued would be limited. The scheme would be aimed at young people in the UK and EU under 30 years old. This follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s promise to “reset” relations with the EU following his election in July 2024.

    At the upcoming EU-UK summit to be held in London on May 19 2025, opportunities for young people to travel between the UK and the EU will be a key part of negotiations between politicians.

    The European Commission have made no secret of their desire for such a scheme. They initially proposed a version of this in April 2024. Some EU countries, such as Germany, have spoken out in favour. Brexit has limited the ability of young people to spend time in the UK, with all the cultural, linguistic and other benefits potentially gained from this.

    The UK government’s enthusiasm has, in contrast, been more muted. They have a number of concerns, including immigration. Returning to any sort of free movement with the EU has been roundly rejected by politicians.

    Concerns over immigration

    Consecutive UK governments have been concerned with reducing net immigration, and international student visas contribute to these figures. Consequently, reducing numbers of incoming international students has been seen as a way of controlling immigration – to the dismay of bodies representing the UK’s higher education sector.

    But other countries, such as the US, exclude international students from immigration figures. Debates concerning removing international students from immigration numbers in the UK are ongoing. A poll commissioned by Universities UK found that only around a third of the British public viewed international students as migrants.

    As it stands, however, there are no plans to change the way international students are counted. Any new youth mobility agreement would presumably affect migration figures, but the direction is as yet unknown. And existing youth mobility schemes have had a relatively small impact on immigration numbers.

    Opportunities for young people

    As discussed in my forthcoming book (co-authored with Rachel Brooks) on student mobility after Brexit, young people in Britain have been particularly affected by changes in UK-EU relations.

    These have included their ability to study in Europe, as a consequence of the UK’s withdrawal from the Erasmus+ Programme – the EU’s initiative to support learning, work, sport and training in another EU country. The Republic of Ireland has allocated funding to allow students at universities in Northern Ireland to remain part of Erasmus+.

    At the moment, young Britons are treated no differently from any other potential immigrants to Europe, requiring a visa to study there for more than three months.

    UK citizens travelling to the EU now need a visa for stays of more than 90 days.
    Prostock-studio/Shutterstock

    The new Turing scheme has replaced Erasmus+ to fund study abroad for UK students. But it is far from a like-for-like replacement, is not reciprocal, and students and university staff have reported problems with securing visas in time.

    An agreement with the EU, enabling relatively stress-free travel for young people – albeit for a limited period of time – would be a significant benefit given the current situation.

    Young people from the EU now face similar regulations and restrictions when coming to the UK. A visa and “health surcharge” are now required for any stay over six months. International tuition fees must also be paid by EU citizens on UK degree courses. In addition, postgraduate students are no longer able to bring dependents.

    Consequently, fewer young people from Europe now choose the UK as a study destination. Recent figures show a significant drop in EU students coming to the UK – from 147,950 in 2019-20 to 75,490 in 2023-24. A resurgence in the number of EU students would probably be beneficial to UK universities, and the UK would, at the very least, appear more welcoming to young people from the EU.

    The re-election of Donald Trump as president of the US has ushered in new geopolitical realities. Relations between the US, UK and EU are shifting and uncertain, making a UK-EU deal in areas such as trade, security and education more important. The mobility of young people, as both learners and workers, is an important component of any negotiations on such a deal.

    Johanna L. Waters does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Even a capped, time-limited youth visa scheme would be of value to young people in the UK and EU – https://theconversation.com/even-a-capped-time-limited-youth-visa-scheme-would-be-of-value-to-young-people-in-the-uk-and-eu-255267

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Indonesian postcard image ‘dangerous’ but Fiji a rising star in RSF press freedom index

    Pacific Media Watch

    To mark the release of the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) partnered with the agency The Good Company to launch a new awareness campaign that puts an ironic twist on the glossy advertising of the tourism industry.

    Three out of six countries featured in the exposé are from the Asia Pacific region — but none from the Pacific Islands.

    The campaign shines a stark light on the press freedom violations in countries that seem perfect on postcards but are highly dangerous for journalists, says RSF.

    It is a striking campaign raising awareness about repression.

    Fiji (44th out of 180 ranked nations) is lucky perhaps as three years ago when its draconian media law was still in place, it might have bracketed up there with the featured “chilling” tourism countries such as Indonesia (127) — which is rapped over its treatment of West Papua resistance and journalists.

    Disguised as attractive travel guides, the campaign’s visuals use a cynical, impactful rhetoric to highlight the harsh realities journalists face in destinations renowned for their tourist appeal.

    Along with Indonesia, Greece (89th), Cambodia (115), Egypt (170), Mexico (124) and the Philippines (116) are all visited by millions of tourists, yet they rank poorly in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, reports RSF.

    ‘Chilling narrative’
    “The attention-grabbing visuals juxtapose polished, enticing aesthetics with a chilling narrative of intimidation, censorship, violence, and even death.

    “This deliberately unsettling approach by RSF aims to shift the viewer’s perspective, showing what the dreamlike imagery conceals: journalists imprisoned, attacked, or murdered behind idyllic landscapes.”


    The RSF Index 2025 teaser.     Video: RSF

    Indonesia is in the Pacific spotlight because of its Melanesian Papuan provinces bordering Pacific Islands Forum member country Papua New Guinea.

    Despite outgoing President Joko Widodo’s 10 years in office and a reformist programme, his era has been marked by a series of broken promises, reports RSF.

    “The media oligarchy linked to political interests has grown stronger, leading to increased control over critical media and manipulation of information through online trolls, paid influencers, and partisan outlets,” says the Index report.

    “This climate has intensified self-censorship within media organisations and among journalists.

    “Since October 2024, Indonesia has been led by a new president, former general Prabowo Subianto — implicated in several human rights violation allegations — and by Joko Widodo’s eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, as vice-president.

    “Under this new administration, whose track record on press freedom offers little reassurance, concerns are mounting over the future of independent journalism.”

    Fiji leads in Pacific
    In the Pacific, Fiji has led the pack among island states by rising four places to 40th overall, making it the leading country in Oceania in 2025 in terms of press freedom.

    A quick summary of Oceania rankings in the 2025 RSF World Press Freedom Index. Image: RSF/PMW

    Both Timor-Leste, which dropped 19 places to 39th after heading the region last year, and Samoa, which plunged 22 places to 44th, lost their impressive track record.

    Of the only other two countries in Oceania surveyed by RSF, Tonga rose one place to 46th and Papua New Guinea jumped 13 places to 78th, a surprising result given the controversy over its plans to regulate the media.

    RSF reports that the Fiji Media Association (FMA), which was often critical of the harassment of the media by the previous FijiFirst government, has since the repeal of the Media Act in 2023 “worked hard to restore independent journalism and public trust in the media”.

    In March 2024, research published in Journalism Practice journal found that sexual harassment of women journalists was widespread and needed to be addressed to protect media freedom and quality journalism.

    In Timor-Leste, “politicians regard the media with some mistrust, which has been evidenced in several proposed laws hostile to press freedom, including one in 2020 under which defaming representatives of the state or Catholic Church would have been punishable by up to three years in prison.

    “Journalists’ associations and the Press Council often criticise politicisation of the public broadcaster and news agency.”

    On the night of September 4, 2024, Timorese police arrested Antonieta Kartono Martins, a reporter for the news site Diligente Online, while covering a police operation to remove street vendors from a market in Dili, the capital. She was detained for several hours before being released.

    Samoan harassment
    Previously enjoying a good media freedom reputation, journalists and their families in Samoa were the target of online death threats, prompting the Samoan Alliance of Media Professionals for Development (SAMPOD) to condemn the harassment as “attacks on the fourth estate and democracy”.

    In Tonga, RSF reports that journalists are not worried about being in any physical danger when on the job, and they are relatively unaffected by the possibility of prosecution.

    “Nevertheless, self-censorship continues beneath the surface in a tight national community.”

    In Papua New Guinea, RSF reports journalists are faced with intimidation, direct threats, censorship, lawsuits and bribery attempts, “making it a dangerous profession”.

    “And direct interference often threatens the editorial freedom at leading media outlets. This was seen yet again at EMTV in February 2022, when the entire newsroom was fired after walking out” in protest over a management staffing decison.

    “There has been ongoing controversy since February 2023 concerning a draft law on media development backed by Communications Minister Timothy Masiu. In January 2024, a 14-day state of emergency was declared in the capital, Port Moresby, following unprecedented protests by police forces and prison wardens.”

    This impacted on government and media relations.

    Australia and New Zealand
    In Australia (29), the media market’s heavy concentration limits the diversity of voices represented in the news, while independent outlets struggle to find a sustainable economic model.

    While New Zealand (16) leads in the Asia Pacific region, it is also facing a similar situation to Australia with a narrowing of media plurality, closure or merging of many newspaper titles, and a major retrenchment of journalists in the country raising concerns about democracy.

    Pacific Media Watch collaborates with Reporters Without Borders.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Deccan Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated April 25, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2.00 lakh (Rupees Two Lakh only) on The Deccan Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Loans and advances to directors, their relatives, and firms/concerns in which they are interested’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had sanctioned director related loans.

    This action is based on the deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/268

    MIL OSI Global Banks –