NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Are we really capable of resurrecting extinct animals?

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    An illustration of a woolly mammoth

    By Timothy Hearn, Anglia Ruskin University

    From dire wolves to woolly mammoths, the idea of resurrecting extinct species has captured the public imagination. Colossal Biosciences, the Dallas-based biotech company leading the charge, has made headlines for ambitious efforts to bring back long-lost animals using cutting edge genetic engineering.

    It recently announced the birth of pups with key traits of dire wolves, an iconic predator last seen roaming North America more than 10,000 years ago. This followed on the heels of earlier project announcements focused on the woolly mammoth and the thylacine. This all fuels a sense that de-extinction is not only possible but imminent.

    But as the science advances, a deeper question lingers: how close must the result be to count as a true return? If we can only recover fragments of an extinct creature’s genome – and must build the rest with modern substitutes – is that really de-extinction, or are we simply creating lookalikes?

    To the public, de-extinction often evokes images of Jurassic Park-style resurrection: a recreation of a lost animal, reborn into the modern world. In scientific circles, however, the term encompasses a variety of techniques: selective breeding, cloning, and increasingly, synthetic biology through genome editing. Synthetic biology is a field that involves redesigning systems found in nature.

    Scientists have used selective breeding of modern cattle in attempts to recreate an animal that resembles the auroch, the wild ancestor of today’s breeds. Cloning has been used to briefly bring back the pyrenean ibex, which went extinct in 2000. In 2003, a Spanish team brought a cloned calf to term, but the animal died a few minutes after birth.

    This is often cited as the first example of de-extinction. However, the only preserved tissue was from one female animal, meaning it could not have been used to bring back a viable population. Colossal’s work falls into the synthetic biology category.

    These approaches differ in method but share a common goal: to restore a species that has been lost. In most cases, what emerges is not an exact genetic copy of the extinct species, but a proxy: a modern organism engineered to resemble its ancestor in function or appearance.

    Take the case of the woolly mammoth. Colossal’s project aims to create a cold-adapted Asian elephant that can fulfil the mammoth’s former ecological role. But mammoths and Asian elephants diverged hundreds of thousands of years ago and differ by an estimated 1.5 million genetic variants. Editing all of these is, for now, impossible. Instead, scientists are targeting a few dozen genes linked to key traits like cold resistance, fat storage and hair growth.

    Compare that to humans and chimpanzees. Despite a genetic similarity of around 98.8%, the behavioural and physical differences between the two are huge. If comparatively small genetic gaps can produce such major differences, what can we expect when editing only a tiny fraction of the differences between two species? It’s a useful rule of thumb when assessing recent claims.

    As discussed in a previous article, Colossal’s dire wolf project involved just 20 genetic edits. These were introduced into the genome of a gray wolf to mimic key traits of the extinct dire wolf. The resulting animals may look the part, but with so few changes, they are genetically much closer to modern wolves than their prehistoric namesake.

    Colossal’s ambitions extend beyond mammoths and dire wolves. The company is also working to revive the thylacine (Tasmanian tiger), a carnivorous marsupial that was once native to mainland Australia, Tasmania and New Guinea. The last example died at Hobart Zoo in 1936. Colossal is using a genetic relative called the fat-tailed dunnart – a tiny marsupial – as the foundation. The goal is to engineer the dunnart’s genome to express traits found in thylacines. The team says it is developing an artificial uterus device to carry the engineered foetus.

    Colossal also has a project to revive the dodo, a flightless bird that roamed Mauritius until the 1600s. That project will use the Nicobar pigeon, one of the dodo’s closest living relatives, as a basis for genetic reconstruction.

    In each case, the company relies on a partial blueprint: incomplete ancient DNA, and then uses the powerful genome editing tool Crispr to edit specific differences into the genome of a closely related living species. The finished animals, if born, may resemble their extinct counterparts in outward appearance and some behaviour – but they will not be genetically identical. Rather, they will be hybrids, mosaics or functional stand-ins.

    That doesn’t negate the value of these projects. In fact, it might be time to update our expectations. If the goal is to restore ecological roles, not to perfectly recreate extinct genomes, then these animals may still serve important functions. But it also means we must be precise in our language. These are synthetic creations, not true returns.

    Technology to prevent extinction

    There are more grounded examples of near-de-extinction work – most notably the northern white rhinoceros. Only two females remain alive today, and both are infertile. Scientists are working to create viable embryos using preserved genetic material and surrogate mothers from closely related rhino species. This effort involves cloning and assisted reproduction, with the aim of restoring a population genetically identical to the original.

    Unlike the mammoth or the thylacine, the northern white rhino still has living representatives and preserved cells. That makes it a fundamentally different case – more conservation biology than synthetic biology. But it shows the potential of this technology when deployed toward preservation, not reconstruction.

    Gene editing also holds promise for helping endangered species by using it to introduce genetic diversity into a population, eliminate harmful mutations from species or enhance resilience to disease or climate change. In this sense, the tools of de-extinction may ultimately serve to prevent extinctions, rather than reverse them.

    So where does that leave us? Perhaps we need new terms: synthetic proxies, ecological analogues or engineered restorations. These phrases might lack the drama of “de-extinction” but they are closer to the scientific reality.

    After all, these animals are not coming back from the dead – they are being invented, piece by piece, from what the past left behind. In the end, it may not matter whether we call them mammoths or woolly elephants, dire wolves or designer dogs. What matters is how we use this power – whether to heal broken ecosystems, to preserve the genetic legacy of vanishing species or simply to prove that we can.

    But we should at least be honest: what we’re witnessing isn’t resurrection. It’s reimagination.

    Timothy Hearn, Senior Lecturer in Bioinformatics, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: ACT Group Enhances Support for Latin America with New Miami Office

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ACT Group, the leading developer and provider of comprehensive and innovative environmental solutions for businesses globally, is enhancing its longstanding presence in Latin America with the opening of its Miami, Florida office. This strategic move will enable ACT to provide even greater support and localized expertise for businesses headquartered in the region, as well as global companies with operations there.

    With existing offices in Amsterdam, London, New York, Paris, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo, ACT’s operations in Latin America reflect its commitment to addressing evolving client needs locally and globally. As the pressure to decarbonize and navigate complex regulatory frameworks intensifies, ACT’s Miami office will serve as a regional hub, empowering organizations to bridge the gap between ambition and action with tailored, market-based solutions. These solutions include tools to measure carbon footprints, set climate targets, and reduce, mitigate, and disclose emissions efficiently.

    “ACT has always been about more than just helping businesses achieve environmental goals—it’s about empowering them to decarbonize with clarity and confidence. Across Latin America, we’re seeing a growing commitment to net zero, and our role is to make that journey as accessible and impactful as possible,” said Ronald Rozgonyi, CEO of ACT Americas.

    David Maarek to Lead Latin America Office

    Pioneering this initiative is David Maarek, a 15-year veteran of ACT who played a pivotal role in the company’s early growth in Amsterdam and spearheaded the successful energy efficiency business in Paris, France. As Head of Latin America, David will oversee efforts to deepen ACT’s impact in the region, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of leadership.

    “Latin American businesses are eager to contribute to a low-carbon economy but often face challenges in knowing where to begin,” said Maarek. “Our goal is to meet them where they are and provide the holistic tools and on-the-ground assistance needed to chart a path forward.”

    His leadership reflects ACT’s strong corporate culture, which prioritizes client-centric dedication, a high standard of excellence, and open collaboration within teams and with partners.

    Actionable Insights in Mexico’s Carbon and Energy Markets

    To complement this expansion, ACT has launched a comprehensive whitepaper titled Navigating Mexico’s Carbon and Energy Markets: Practical Insights for Compliance and Voluntary Success. Created by ACT’s dedicated R&D team—who continuously track global regulatory and market developments—this resource offers businesses a roadmap to accelerate low-carbon goals while efficiently meeting regulatory obligations.

    Inside, you’ll find:

    • A detailed overview of Mexico’s regulatory landscape, including Clean Energy Certificates (CELs) and carbon tax frameworks.
    • Practical insights into utilizing CELs and International Renewable Energy Certificates (IRECs) for voluntary sustainability goals.
    • Updates on the operational phase of Mexico’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) and its implications for businesses.

    About ACT

    ACT develops and provides comprehensive and innovative environmental solutions that empower businesses globally to act on and achieve their environmental goals efficiently and transparently. No matter how ambitious. Founded in 2009, thousands of customers worldwide rely on ACT’s extensive global environmental regulation, market, standard, and product expertise to deliver real results.

    Providing solution discovery, optimized procurement strategies, environmental project development, and cutting-edge digital decarbonization services as well as physical environmental products, ACT simplifies and streamlines its customers’ journeys to net zero and empowers them through market expertise and digital simplicity.

    A PDF accompanying this announcement is available at 

    http://ml-eu.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/beaeb218-63c1-4ab3-a5b5-51a6c0d2975d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Gaza has become a “mass grave” for Palestinians and those helping them – MSF

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    JERUSALEM, 16 APRIL – As Israeli forces resume and expand their military offensive by air, ground and sea on the Gaza Strip, Palestine, forcibly displacing people and deliberately blocking essential aid, Palestinian lives are once again being systematically destroyed, warns Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders (MSF). A series of deadly attacks by Israeli forces have shown a blatant disregard for the safety of humanitarian and medical workers in Gaza. We call on Israeli authorities to immediately lift the inhumane and deadly siege on Gaza, protect the lives of Palestinians, humanitarian and medical personnel, and for all parties to restore and sustain the ceasefire.

    “Gaza has been turned into a mass grave of Palestinians and those coming to their assistance. We are witnessing in real time the destruction and forced displacement of the entire population in Gaza.” says Amande Bazerolle, MSF emergency coordinator in Gaza. “With nowhere safe for Palestinians or those trying to help them, the humanitarian response is severely struggling under the weight of insecurity and critical supply shortages, leaving people with few, if any, options for accessing care.”

    Over 50,000 people have been killed since October 2023, nearly a third of whom are children, according to the Ministry of Health. Since the resumption of hostilities on 18 March, more than 1,500 people have been killed, according to local authorities.

    According to the United Nations, at least 409 aid workers, most of whom were UNWRA staff, the main provider of humanitarian aid in Gaza, have been killed since October 2023. Eleven MSF colleagues, some while on duty, have been killed since the start of the war, including two in just the past two weeks.

    In the latest instance of a ruthless attack by Israeli forces on aid workers, the bodies of 15 emergency responders and the ambulances they were traveling in were found in a mass grave on 30 March in Rafah, southern Gaza. The group was killed by Israeli forces while trying to assist civilians caught in shelling on 23 March. Recent publicly shared evidence has shown that the workers and their vehicles were clearly marked and identifiable, challenging the initial claims given by Israeli authorities.

    “This horrific killing of aid workers is yet another example of the complete disregard shown by Israeli forces for the protection of humanitarian and medical workers. The silence and unconditional support of Israel’s closest allies further emboldens these actions,” says Claire Magone, General Director of MSF France. MSF considers that only international and independent investigations can bring to light the circumstances of, and the responsibilities for, these attacks on aid workers.

    Although the situation has already been catastrophic for over 18 months, over the past three weeks, MSF has witnessed several incidents involving the killing of humanitarian and medical workers. The coordination of humanitarian movements with Israeli authorities, known as the Humanitarian Notification System (HNS), an already imperfect mechanism, has become more unreliable and is now barely affording any protection guarantees. Notified locations, in which humanitarians have informed Israel of their presence, such as health facilities where we work, compounds of humanitarian stakeholders, and MSF offices and guesthouses have been hit by shells or bullets. Areas near healthcare facilities have been subjected to strikes, fighting and evacuation orders.

    Medical facilities are not exempt from attacks and evacuation orders by Israeli forces. MSF teams have had to leave many facilities, while others continue operating with staff and patients trapped inside, unable to leave safely for hours at a time. On 7 April, MSF teams and patients found themselves trapped in the MSF field hospital in Deir Al-Balah, central Gaza. Rockets were launched by Hamas in close proximity to our field hospitals in Deir Al-Balah endangering both patients and staff and leading to an evacuation order of the area by Israeli forces, who also carried out strikes near the compounds of Al Aqsa and Nasser hospitals. We strongly denounce these actions by the warring parties and call on them to respect and protect healthcare facilities, patients and medical staff.

    Since March 18, MSF has not been able to return to Indonesian hospital in northern Gaza where our teams were set to begin pediatric care but had to flee the field hospital, which was set up right next to the compound. MSF mobile clinics in North Gaza were suspended, and in the south, teams have been unable to return to Al-Shaboura clinic in Rafah.

    The full siege on Gaza has depleted food, fuel and medical stocks. MSF is especially facing shortages in medications for pain management and chronic illnesses, antibiotics and critical surgical materials. The lack of fuel replenishment across the Strip will lead to the inevitable suspension of activities as hospitals rely on generators for electricity to keep critical patients alive and conduct lifesaving operations.

    “Israeli authorities have deliberately blocked all aid from entering Gaza for over a month. Humanitarians have been forced to watch people suffer and die while carrying the impossible burden of providing relief with depleted supplies, all while facing the same life-threatening conditions themselves,” explains Bazerolle. “There is no way they can carry out their mission under such circumstances. This is not a humanitarian failure — it is a political choice, and a deliberate assault on a people’s ability to survive, carried out with impunity.”

    Israeli authorities must end their collective punishment of Palestinians.

    We urge Israel’s allies to end their complicity and stop enabling the destruction of Palestinian lives.

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au 

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI: ‘The Sound of Chunhyang Opens the World’ – The 95th Namwon Chunhyang Festival to Kick Off on April 30

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NAMWON, KOREA, April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Motivated by the Joseon Dynasty’s Chunhyang love story, the festival sees a growing number of foreign visitors engaging in K-culture experiences.

    Korea’s oldest traditional regional festival, soon to mark its 100th anniversary, aims to attract 2 million visitors. A classic Korean love story comparable to “Romeo and Juliet” is now gaining global attention as a cultural festival celebrating K-culture experiences. The spotlight is on the Chunhyang Festival, held in Namwon, Jeollabuk-do Special Self-Governing Province, the hometown of love and tradition.

    The name ‘Chunhyang’ in the festival comes from the heroine of “The Tale of Chunhyang,” a traditional Korean love story handed down from the Joseon Dynasty, symbolizing love and fidelity. The story has been reinterpreted with a modern sensibility and transformed into a regional cultural festival enjoyed by people of all ages.

    The Namwon Chunhyang Festival, which began in 1931 and celebrates its 95th edition this year, is the oldest regional festival in Korea and one of the most beloved traditional cultural events. Selected as an outstanding festival by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and ranked first in the traditional arts category, it has grown into a nationally recognized regional event. Last year, it welcomed 1.2 million visitors, positioning itself as a global festival that draws international attention.

    The 95th Chunhyang Festival will take place from April 30 to May 6 across Namwon’s Gwanghallu Garden and the Yocheon Stream area. Under the theme “The Sound of Chunhyang Opens the World,” the festival will feature 100 diverse programs in anticipation of its centennial anniversary.

    Chunhyang Festival Connecting Past, Present, and the World Through Sound

    This year’s main concept of Chunhyang Festival is ‘sound’. A variety of musical performances will be presented to allow people from around the world to relate and enjoy together. Aspiring to become a high-quality global music festival, the event will be organized around three themes: the Sound of Korea, the Sound of the World, and the Sound of Fusion.

    Highlights include a 300-member civic choir, traditional Korean music performances, international ensemble exchanges, a K-pop dance competition, and the Chunhyang Ball. These diverse performances will be staged throughout Namwon, with nightly shows at Gwanghalluwon Garden offering unforgettable moments.

    As the festival is centered on the theme of sound, there will also be performances by band music teams that can communicate with various generations beyond Korean national music. On May 5 and 6, the outdoor stage at Love Square will host the national band contest “Let PungROCK Resound!” Featuring a mix of intense genres like rock, metal, and punk with smoother ones like blues and jazz, the contest will provide citizens and visitors with a rich musical experience.

    Throughout the week, the “One Day Spring Dream Concert” will showcase modern Korean traditional music alongside pop artists. Each day will feature performances by pop singers, international artists, music bands, and orchestras, captivating audiences with both sight and sound.

    Immersive Korean Traditional Culture Experiences in Hanbok

    Hanbok, the traditional Korean attire that gained global fame through BTS and BLACKPINK’s music video and performances, is now a must-do experience for international visitors. With its graceful colors, patterns, and textures, Hanbok rental is available throughout the Chunhyang Festival for guests to fully immerse themselves in Korean culture.

    During the week of the Chunhyang Festival, event staff members wear traditional hanbok to greet visitors. Visitors, too, can freely walk around the festival grounds dressed in hanbok of their choice, which they can personally select and rent, fully immersing themselves in the atmosphere of traditional Korean culture.

    Not only foreign visitors but also numerous citizens of all ages enjoy the festival programs wearing hanbok. Throughout the festival grounds, photo zones are set up where visitors dressed in hanbok can take commemorative photos, capturing the memorable moments of the Chunhyang Festival.

    Hanbok wearers can also take part in various cultural programs for a deeper experience. At Gwanghalluwon Garden, visitors can participate in tea ceremonies using prepared tea leaves, spinning a bowl games, traditional cup and ball games, and enjoy master performances at the historic Gwanghallu Pavilion, a National Treasure No. 281. The comedic “Pumba” performances in the canola flower fields will allow participants to special experience Chunhyang’s world firsthand.

    Popular programs such as the “Daedong Street Performance” street parade and “Hanbok Ball” will also be held. The Daedong Street Performance parade, themed after the Tale of Chunhyang, features citizen participation along with special international performers, taekwondo demonstrations, and police motorcycle parades, offering a vibrant spectacle. With people of all ages and nationalities joining the parade, the entire city of Namwon will be filled with music and excitement.

    Namwon’s multilingual tourism information system will help all visitors enjoy the festival with ease.

    A Feast for the Five Senses: Family Zone, Camping Zone, and Food Zone

    Evolving from a traditional cultural festival to a global event nearing its 100th year, the Chunhyang Festival will feature a dedicated “Family Zone” at Love Square, ensuring convenience for families with young children.

    The Family Zone includes amusement rides, various performance programs, food trucks, and amenities. Popular attractions like air bouncers, Viking rides, and disco pang-pang, along with circus acts, bubble shows, and magic shows, will keep families entertained. Finger food-friendly food trucks and comfortable rest areas, including nursing rooms, are also provided.

    Four free shuttle bus routes will be in operation for easier access to the venue, running every 20 minutes from 10 AM to 11 PM. To accommodate the expected surge in visitors, car camping and camping zones will be established in six areas, including Yocheon Eco Park and Geumam Park, accommodating up to 340 vehicles including caravans and passenger cars.

    A wide variety of foods made using local specialties will also be available. A barbecue zone, a traditional food court, and a food truck zone within the Family Zone will be in operation, and visitors will also be able to enjoy cocktails made with Namwon’s traditional liquor at various spots throughout the venue. In particular, the traditional food court operated directly by local residents offers a chance to experience and savor the diverse flavors of K-Food that has recently captured the taste buds of people around the world.

    Nights Brighter Than Days: Night Views, Music, and Fireworks

    The nights of the Chunhyang Festival shine even brighter than the days. A 3-hectare field of canola flowers along the Yocheon Stream sets the backdrop for breathtaking sunsets and golden blooms. With scenic lighting and photo zones, visitors can also enjoy the canola flower field at night.

    Traditional Korean lanterns, Cheongsachorong, placed throughout Namwon, will cast a warm glow, symbolizing love and hope. The fireworks at the festival’s opening and closing ceremonies will add a spectacular finale, leaving lasting memories of this spring’s most special moments.

    Media contact

    Organization: Chunhyang

    Contact: Park Jungna

    Email: jra0381@chunhyang.org

    Phone: 010-7674-0381

    Website: https://www.chunhyang.org/eng

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitwise expands institutional–grade access to Bitcoin and Ethereum with four ETP listings on London Stock Exchange

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Bitwise adds London as trading hub for four of its European products, providing access to its best-in-class crypto ETPs for UK professional investors.
    • Products to be traded at LSE include Bitwise Core Bitcoin ETP, Europe’s only Bitcoin ETP with extended primary market liquidity window and 0,20% TER, and the Bitwise Physical Bitcoin ETP with approximately 5-year track-record.
    • LSE is premier trading venue for ETPs in Europe, with members of more than 20 countries having access to its order books

    April 16, 2025. Frankfurt, London: Bitwise has listed four of its Germany-issued crypto Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) at the London Stock Exchange (LSE), expanding access to its institutional-grade product suite for Bitcoin and Ethereum investors, and widening its footprint across European markets. The lineup includes BTC1, the Bitwise Core Bitcoin ETP, one of Europe’s most cost-efficient Bitcoin ETPs with a total expense ratio (TER) of just 0.20% and the Bitwise Physical Bitcoin ETP, which has a five-year track record and ranks as Europe’s most liquid Bitcoin ETP. While these products remain restricted to professional and wholesale investors in the UK, the London listing significantly improves access for qualified market participants. Bitwise is a pure-play digital asset manager, yet our ETPs are designed by experts with deep expertise in both digital assets and traditional financial markets—making them ideally suited to the needs of institutional investors.

    Bradley Duke, Managing Director, Head of Bitwise Europe, said: “I am very pleased to see the debut listings of Bitwise products on the London Stock Exchange, one of Europe’s most esteemed trading venues. Investing in crypto is rapidly becoming mainstream and institutional investors increasingly allocate digital assets to their portfolios. Bitwise offers secure, transparent, and best-in-class crypto investment products, supported by a team with expert knowledge of the market and the needs of institutional investors. We will continue to innovate our product range, in dialogue with investors to bring products that suit their needs in this rapidly developing asset class.

    The four products listed in London as of 15 April are:

    • The Bitwise Core Bitcoin ETP (BTC1, ISIN: DE000A4AER62), a cost-efficient Bitcoin ETP option without fee holidays, with a TER of 0.20% per year, making it ideal for strategic allocations. The product is designed for long-term institutional investors seeking cost efficiency and benchmark reliability. The NAV is calculated three times daily using Bitwise’s unique Triple-Daily NAV Method, which integrates primary market liquidity from Hong Kong, the European Union, and the United States.
    • The Bitwise Physical Bitcoin ETP (BTCE, ISIN: DE000A27Z304) the most liquid crypto ETP on the XETRA trading platform of Deutsche Börse, with one of the lowest bid-ask spreads, and the second-highest assets under management (AUM) of any physical Bitcoin ETP in Europe. It is often used by traders and short- to mid-term investors looking for flexible exposure to Bitcoin. Launched in June 2020 as the first ever crypto ETP on the German stock exchange in Frankfurt, BTCE is one of the largest Bitcoin products in terms of assets under management in Europe.
    • The Bitwise Physical Ethereum ETP (ZETH, ISIN: DE000A3GMKD7), an institutional-grade Ethereum product that gives investors pure exposure to Ethereum performance, equipped with institutional-grade custody. The assets backing the ETP are kept in cold-storage, and are secured by an independent trustee, thus mitigating issuer default risk.
    • The Bitwise Ethereum Staking ETP (ET32, ISIN: DE000A3G90G9), an institutional-grade, low cost, and liquid vehicle with staking rewards accumulating in the ETP daily leveraging ETH staking for maximum investor outcome. It has seen consistent positive net inflows while maintaining competitive bid-ask spreads, and aims at offering the lowest total cost of ownership among ETH Staking ETPs. As the only ETH staking ETP tied to a real benchmark, it enables investors to accurately evaluate Ethereum staking opportunities and clearly assess performance against industry standards.

    Bitwise has accelerated its activities in Europe since its acquisition of ETC Group last year, continuing to launch innovative new products regularly, such as the Bitwise Solana Staking ETP in November 2024, the Bitwise Aptos Staking ETP in December and the Bitwise Diaman Bitcoin & Gold ETP just last month. Its products trade on several of Europe’s largest stock exchanges. Committed to transparency, expert product design, and professional management, Bitwise frequently publishes crypto research and market insights to educate and inform investors of the emerging opportunities in the digital assets space.

    Bitwise enables investors to gain exposure to digital assets without the need for a crypto wallet, as our ETPs trade on regulated exchanges, just like traditional stocks or ETFs. Each ETP is fully backed by the corresponding digital asset, securely held in institutional-grade cold-storage custody. Structurally comparable to precious metal ETCs, Bitwise’s crypto ETPs also feature a physical redemption mechanism. Investor protection is further enhanced through the presence of an independent trustee and an audited issuer structure, ensuring that the underlying assets are held off the issuer’s balance sheet, thereby minimizing insolvency risk. Bitwise ETPs can be seamlessly integrated into standard brokerage or ETF portfolio accounts and are often eligible for SIPP and ISA inclusion, making them accessible for long-term investment planning in the UK.

    LSE Listed ETPs Trading Information

    About Bitwise

    Bitwise is one of the world’s leading crypto specialist asset managers. Thousands of financial advisors, family offices, and institutional investors across the globe have partnered with us to understand and access the opportunities in crypto. Since 2017, Bitwise has established a track record of excellence, managing a broad suite of index and active solutions across ETPs, separately managed accounts, private funds, and hedge fund strategies – spanning both the U.S. and Europe.

    In Europe, for the past four years Bitwise (formerly ETC Group) has developed an extensive and innovative suite of crypto ETPs, including Europe’s most traded bitcoin ETP, or the first diversified Crypto Basket ETP replicating an MSCI digital assets index.

    This family of crypto ETPs is domiciled in Germany and issued under a base prospectus approved by BaFin. We exclusively partner with reputable entities from the traditional financial industry, ensuring that 100% of the assets are securely stored offline (cold storage) through regulated custodians.

    Our European products comprise a collection of carefully designed financial instruments that seamlessly integrate into any professional portfolio, providing comprehensive exposure to crypto as an asset class. Access is straightforward via major European stock exchanges, with primary listings on Xetra, the most liquid exchange for ETF trading in Europe. Retail investors benefit from easy access through numerous DIY/online brokers, coupled with our robust and secure physical ETP structure, which includes a redemption feature. For more information, visit www.bitwiseinvestments.com/eu

    Media contacts:

    JEA Associates
    John McLeod
    00 44 7886 920436
    john@jeaassociates.com

    Important information
    This press release does not constitute investment advice, nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation to buy financial products. This press release is issued by Bitwise Europe GmbH (“BEU”), a limited company domiciled in Germany, for information only and in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. BEU gives no explicit or implicit assurance or guarantee regarding the fairness, accuracy, completeness, or correctness of this article or the opinions contained therein. It is advised not to rely on the fairness, accuracy, completeness, or correctness of this article or the opinions contained therein. Please note that this article is neither investment advice nor an offer or solicitation to acquire financial products or cryptocurrencies.

    Before investing in crypto Exchange Traded Products (“ETPs”), potential investors should consider the following:
    Potential investors should seek independent advice and consider relevant information contained in the base prospectus and the final terms for the ETPs, especially the risk factors. ETPs issued by BEU are suitable only for persons experienced in investing in cryptocurrencies and risks of investing can be found in the prospectus and final terms available on www.bitwiseinvestments.com./eu. The invested capital is at risk, and losses up to the amount invested are possible. ETPs backed by cryptocurrencies are highly volatile assets and performance is unpredictable. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The market price of ETPs will vary and they do not offer a fixed income or match precisely the performance of the underlying cryptocurrency. Investing in ETPs involves numerous risks including general market risks relating to underlying, adverse price movements, currency, liquidity, operational, legal and regulatory risks.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister welcomes newest electricity retailer

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Energy Minister Simon Watts welcomes Lodestone Energy’s move to become New Zealand’s newest electricity retailer.

    “Energy is critical to growing New Zealand’s economy and lifting productivity. Our energy system should be supporting our businesses and industries to compete on the global stage by making sure they have access to reliable, affordable energy,” Mr Watts says.

    “Our energy system also needs to better deliver for Kiwis who are feeling the pressure from the cost of living. We’ve heard too many reports of Kiwis getting a raw deal from our electricity market and last winter made it clear how a lack of competition is driving up energy prices and putting further pressure on families.

    “That’s why this Government takes competition seriously. More competition in the energy sector means more affordable power prices, greater choices between providers and overall greater outcomes for Kiwis.”

    Lodestone Energy is the most recent company to enter the electricity retail market as a major retailer.

    “Independent retailers only hold a 11 percent market share of the retail market, and so new players entering the market is a signal of the sector’s confidence in this Government’s actions to strengthen and promote confidence and investment in the electricity market. Fresh perspectives are exactly what New Zealand needs to ensure Kiwis get a fair deal and our businesses can compete globally,” Mr Watts says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Arowana launches S$120 million B Corp holding company out of Singapore, appoints B Lab Global co-founder Andrew Kassoy and Thomas Ng to Advisory Board

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Arowana’s B Corp holding company will provide a succession and ownership transition pathway for B Corp founders seeking to exit but retain ethos of their businesses

    Investment focus will initially be on ASEAN region but in time look to expand to other developing economies across MENA and Latin American regions with large and growing populations

    SINGAPORE, April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arowana & Co. (“Arowana”), the global B Corporation investment group, announced today that it has launched a holding company headquartered in Singapore to specifically invest in companies committed to the B Corp triple bottom line of People, Planet and Profit across the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region.

    The primary purpose of this holding company, AIC Group Holdings, is to provide companies that are B Corp or want to become B Corp with an ownership succession pathway, which will respect and perpetuate the B Corp ethos and culture instilled by their founders. AIC Group Holdings is privately held.

    In tandem with the launch of the holding company, Arowana has appointed Andrew Kassoy, co-founder of B Lab Global, the non-profit behind the B Corp movement, to the Advisory Board of AIC Group Holdings. In addition, Thomas Ng, a leading B Corp entrepreneur and founder of Genashtim, a fast-growing global social enterprise, has agreed to join the Advisory Board.

    Arowana founder and chairman, Kevin Chin, commented: “We have been working on optimising a structure for two years and believe a holding company that has no restrictions in terms of investment entry and exit horizons is the best model that matches the succession and growth objectives of B Corp founders and their businesses. As a B Corp ourselves, we appreciate the dilemma that founders face in this regard. We consider Singapore to be the ideal headquarters for this holding company as we see many enterprises across the fast-growing ASEAN region that would be a good fit. This is consistent with Arowana’s broader strategy of pivoting our focus to developing markets across ASEAN and, in due time, Africa and Latin America with large and growing populations and economies.”

    He further added: “I am honoured that two luminaries of the B Corp movement, Andrew Kassoy and Thomas Ng, have agreed to join the Arowana holding company advisory board members. Not only are Andrew and Thomas great stewards, but also world-class entrepreneurs who have led the scale-up of high-growth global enterprises. We expect to announce further additions to the advisory board and the holding company team in due course. Meanwhile, our team is already in exclusive due diligence processes on four proprietary investment opportunities in the ASEAN region that have come about because of Arowana’s veritable commitment to the B Corp ethos.”

    Andrew Kassoy, co-founder of B Lab Global, commented: “Since the earliest days of the B Corp movement, we have seen first-hand the issues of succession and ownership transition faced by B Corp founders, especially when deliberating on acquisition proposals from non-B Corp entities. I am excited to join the Arowana B Corp holding company advisory board as I share the vision that Kevin Chin has in creating a permanent capital holding company structure with a genuine B Corp ethos that provides a compelling option for B Corp founders exploring succession and exit.”

    Thomas Ng, B Corp steward and founder, said: “Having known Kevin Chin for some time and seeing first-hand his steadfast commitment to the B Corp values and mission, I am delighted to be joining the Arowana B Corp holding company advisory board. Across Genashtim’s operations in the ASEAN, African and Latin America regions, we see many businesses that the Arowana B Corp holding company would represent an attractive alternative to consider for succession and ownership transition.”

    About Arowana

    Founded in 2007, Arowana is a global investment group that ranks amongst the world’s leading B Corporations. Arowana first certified as a B Corp in 2018 and recertified in 2023. Arowana’s investment strategy today is focussed on developing markets with large and growing populations where it can best deliver on its core purpose of growing people, companies and value whilst maximising the B Corp triple bottom line of people, planet and profit. Arowana presently has operating companies and investments in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, the United Kingdom, the European Union and Oceania regions.

    Media Contact

    Arowana Digital

    DigitalContent@arowanaco.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Underwriting Auction for sale of Government Securities for ₹30,000 crore on April 17, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India has announced the sale (re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on April 17, 2025 (Thursday).

    As per the extant scheme of underwriting commitment notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:

    (₹ crore)
    Security Notified Amount MUC amount per PD Minimum bidding commitment per PD under ACU auction
    6.79% GS 2031 11,000 262 262
    6.98% GOI SGrB 2054 5,000 120 120
    7.09% GS 2074 14,000 334 334

    The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on April 17, 2025 (Thursday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 09:00 A.M. and 09:30 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction.

    The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/112

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Moves to Improve Freshwater Farm Plans

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is delivering on its commitment to make freshwater farm plans more practical and affordable, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard announced today.“We’re cutting the cost and complexity out of the system,” Mr Hoggard says.“Cabinet has agreed to progress improvements, meeting a key commitment in our Q1 Action Plan.
    Ministers have agreed to reduce the number of farms required to have a plan and to take a risk-based approach to certification. Plans will still manage environmental impacts, but without unnecessary red tape, and they won’t be required for small blocks.“Farm plans are useful tools, but they must be practical and matched to actual environmental risk.” Officials are working with industry, sector groups, and councils to finalise improvements through updated regulations.
    Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says the Government paused the rollout last year to make room for these changes. “We’re recognising existing industry programmes that achieve equivalent environmental outcomes, farmers shouldn’t have to complete multiple plans.“The new system will also act as an alternative to local council rules and consents where appropriate, allowing landowners to meet requirements in a way that suits their farm systems.”
    The improvements are being progressed through the Government’s RMA reform process and are expected to be in place by the end of the year.“These changes reflect our shift from a precautionary to a more permissive, risk-based approach, ensuring landowners can use their property more freely, while protecting the environment and their rights.” “We’re moving quickly to reduce costs and unlock productivity across the primary sector.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Earthquake & renewable energy a focus in Vanuatu

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New Zealand is boosting support to Vanuatu to recover from last year’s earthquake and develop its renewable energy sector, Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters says.

    “Being in Port Vila has underlined the scale of the challenge that Vanuatu faces in recovering from the December earthquake, and we are pleased to provide a further NZ$10 million of support.” 

    “New Zealand will work with the Vanuatu Government over coming weeks to identify priority areas to focus our efforts,” Mr Peters says. 

    “This support will draw on our experience of preparing for, and responding to, major earthquakes through the provision of geotechnical, engineering, and local government response advice, as well as reconstruction.

    “We are also pleased to announce that New Zealand will lead on a renewable energy project on Efate and Tanna — focused on solar photo-voltaic and battery energy storage systems. Working with France, the project will help reduce fuel import costs, and provide for cleaner, more efficient energy use.” 

    While in Port Vila, the New Zealand cross-party delegation met Prime Minister Jotham Napat, the new Vanuatu Government, as well as members of Vanuatu’s Opposition.

    “We had productive discussions, highlighting the muti-faceted nature of our engagement, as neighbours and as development and regional partners,” Mr Peters says. 

    “Our visit also reinforced our shared interest in a safe, secure, and peaceful Pacific.”.

    The delegation attended the completion ceremony of the South Paray Wharf, an important economic project delivered with Vanuatu and the Asian Development Bank.

    Vanuatu is the New Zealand delegation’s fourth and final destination on this Pacific trip, following Tonga, Hawaii and Fiji.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: ASML reports €7.7 billion total net sales and €2.4 billion net income in Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ASML reports €7.7 billion total net sales and €2.4 billion net income in Q1 2025
    2025 total net sales expected to be between €30 billion and €35 billion

    VELDHOVEN, the Netherlands, April 16, 2025 – Today, ASML Holding NV (ASML) has published its 2025 first-quarter results.

    • Q1 total net sales of €7.7 billion, gross margin of 54.0%, net income of €2.4 billion
    • Quarterly net bookings in Q1 of €3.9 billion2 of which €1.2 billion is EUV
    • ASML expects Q2 2025 total net sales between €7.2 billion and €7.7 billion, and a gross margin between 50% and 53%3
    • ASML continues to expect 2025 total net sales to be between €30 billion and €35 billion, with a gross margin between 51% and 53%
    (Figures in millions of euros unless otherwise indicated) Q4 2024   Q1 2025
    Total net sales 9,263   7,742
    …of which Installed Base Management sales1 2,147   2,001
    New lithography systems sold (units) 119   73
    Used lithography systems sold (units) 13   4
    Net bookings2 7,088   3,936
    Gross profit 4,790   4,180
    Gross margin (%) 51.7   54.0
    Net income 2,693   2,355
    EPS (basic; in euros) 6.85   6.00
    End-quarter cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments 12,741   9,104

    (1) Installed Base Management sales equals our net service and field option sales.
    (2) Net bookings include all system sales orders and inflation-related adjustments, for which written authorizations have been accepted.
    (3) The bandwidth for Q2 2025 gross margin guidance is larger than usual, given the uncertainty around the impact of tariffs.
    Numbers have been rounded for readers’ convenience. A complete summary of US GAAP Consolidated Statements of Operations is published on www.asml.com.

    CEO statement and outlook
    “Our first-quarter total net sales came in at €7.7 billion, in line with our guidance. The gross margin was 54.0%, above guidance, driven by a favorable EUV product mix and the achievement of performance milestones. In the first quarter, we shipped our fifth High NA system, and we now have these systems at three customers.

    “Our conversations so far with customers support our expectation that 2025 and 2026 will be growth years. However, the recent tariff announcements have increased uncertainty in the macro environment and the situation will remain dynamic for a while. As previously shared, artificial intelligence continues to be the primary growth driver in our industry. It has created a shift in the market dynamics that benefits some customers more than others, contributing to both upside potential and downside risks as reflected in our 2025 revenue range.

    “We expect second-quarter total net sales between €7.2 billion and €7.7 billion, with a gross margin between 50% and 53%3. We expect R&D costs of around €1.2 billion and SG&A costs of around €300 million. As we previously communicated, we expect total net sales for the year between €30 billion and €35 billion, with a gross margin between 51% and 53%, subject to the uncertainties mentioned earlier,” said ASML President and Chief Executive Officer Christophe Fouquet.

    Update dividend and share buyback program
    ASML intends to declare a total dividend for the year 2024 of €6.40 per ordinary share, which is a 4.9% increase compared to 2023.

    Recognizing the three interim dividends of €1.52 per ordinary share paid in 2024 and 2025, this leads to a final dividend proposal to the Annual General Meeting of €1.84 per ordinary share.

    In the first quarter, we purchased around €2.7 billion worth of shares under the current 2022-2025 share buyback program.

    Details of the share buyback program as well as transactions pursuant thereto, and details of the dividend are published on ASML’s website (www.asml.com/investors).

    Media Relations contacts Investor Relations contacts
    Monique Mols +31 6 5284 4418 Jim Kavanagh +31 40 268 3938
    Willem van Ewijk +31 6 2744 1187 Pete Convertito +1 203 919 1714
    Karen Lo +886 9 397 88635 Peter Cheang +886 3 659 6771

    Quarterly video interview and investor call
    With this press release, ASML is publishing a video interview in which CEO Christophe Fouquet and CFO Roger Dassen discuss the 2025 first-quarter and outlook for 2025. This video and the video transcript can be viewed on www.asml.com shortly after the publication of this press release.

    An investor call for both investors and the media will be hosted by CEO Christophe Fouquet and CFO Roger Dassen on April 16, 2025 at 15:00 Central European Time / 09:00 US Eastern Time. Details can be found on our website.

    About ASML
    ASML is a leading supplier to the semiconductor industry. The company provides chipmakers with hardware, software and services to mass produce the patterns of integrated circuits (microchips). Together with its partners, ASML drives the advancement of more affordable, more powerful, more energy-efficient microchips. ASML enables groundbreaking technology to solve some of humanity’s toughest challenges, such as in healthcare, energy use and conservation, mobility and agriculture. ASML is a multinational company headquartered in Veldhoven, the Netherlands, with offices across EMEA, the US and Asia. Every day, ASML’s more than 44,100 employees (FTE) challenge the status quo and push technology to new limits. ASML is traded on Euronext Amsterdam and NASDAQ under the symbol ASML. Discover ASML – our products, technology and career opportunities – at www.asml.com.

    US GAAP Reporting
    ASML’s primary accounting standard for quarterly earnings releases and annual reports is US GAAP, the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Quarterly summary US GAAP consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of cash flows and consolidated balance sheets are available on www.asml.com.

    The consolidated balance sheets of ASML Holding N.V. as of March 30, 2025, the related consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of cash flows for the quarter and three months ended March 30, 2025 as presented in this press release are unaudited.

    Regulated information
    This press release contains inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This document and related discussions contain statements that are forward-looking within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements with respect to plans, strategies, expected trends, including trends in the semiconductor industry and end markets and business environment trends, expected growth in the semiconductor industry by 2030, our expectation that AI will be the key driver for the industry and the expected impact of AI demand on our business and results, our expectation that lithography will remain at the heart of customer innovation, expected demand, bookings, outlook of market segments, outlook and expected financial results including expected results for Q2 2025, including net sales, Installed Base Management sales, gross margin, R&D costs, SG&A costs, outlook for full year 2025, including expected full year 2025 total net sales, gross margin, estimated annualized effective tax rate and expected growth in IBM sales, the expectation that 2025 and 2026 will be growth years, statements made at our 2024 Investor Day, including revenue and gross margin opportunity for 2030, statements with respect to the recent US tariff announcements and the expected impact of such tariffs on our business and results, our expectation to continue to return significant amounts of cash to shareholders through growing dividends and share buybacks, statements with respect to our share buyback program, and statements with respect to dividends, statements with respect to expected performance and capabilities of our systems and customer plans, statements with respect to our ESG strategy and other non- historical statements. You can generally identify these statements by the use of words like “may”, “expect”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “project”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “plan”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “potential”, “intend”, “continue”, “target”, “future”, “progress”, “goal”, “model”, “opportunity” and variations of these words or comparable words. These statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions, plans and projections about our business and our future financial results and readers should not place undue reliance on them. Forward- looking statements do not guarantee future performance and involve a number of substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to customer demand, semiconductor equipment industry capacity, worldwide demand for semiconductors and semiconductor manufacturing capacity, lithography tool utilization and semiconductor inventory levels, general trends and consumer confidence in the semiconductor industry, the impact of general economic conditions, including the impact of the current macroeconomic environment on the semiconductor industry, uncertainty around a market recovery including the timing thereof, the ultimate impact of AI on our industry and business, the impact of inflation, interest rates, wars and geopolitical developments, the impact of pandemics, the performance of our systems, the success of technology advances and the pace of new product development and customer acceptance of and demand for new products, our production capacity and ability to adjust capacity to meet demand, supply chain capacity, timely availability of parts and components, raw materials, critical manufacturing equipment and qualified employees, our ability to produce systems to meet demand, the number and timing of systems ordered, shipped and recognized in revenue, risks relating to fluctuations in net bookings and our ability to convert bookings into sales, the risk of order cancellation or push outs and restrictions on shipments of ordered systems under export controls, risks relating to the trade environment, import/export and national security regulations and orders and their impact on us, including the impact of changes in export regulations and the impact of such regulations on our ability to obtain necessary licenses and to sell our systems and provide services to certain customers, the impact of the recent tariff announcements, exchange rate fluctuations, changes in tax rates, available liquidity and free cash flow and liquidity requirements, our ability to refinance our indebtedness, available cash and distributable reserves for, and other factors impacting, dividend payments and share repurchases, the number of shares that we repurchase under our share repurchase program, our ability to enforce patents and protect intellectual property rights and the outcome of intellectual property disputes and litigation, our ability to meet ESG goals and execute our ESG strategy, other factors that may impact ASML’s business or financial results, and other risks indicated in the risk factors included in ASML’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 and other filings with and submissions to the US Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this document. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date of this report or to conform such statements to actual results or revised expectations, except as required by law.

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  • MIL-OSI: HERE Technologies Showcases Software-Defined Vehicle Solutions for Chinese Automakers at Auto Shanghai 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • HERE to showcase next-generation, AI-powered mapping and location solutions built for the connected, electric, automated and intelligent vehicle era
    • Working alongside 30 leading Chinese automakers globally, HERE is the trusted provider for high-quality location data

    Shanghai – HERE Technologies, the leading location data and technology platform, today announced its debut participation in Auto Shanghai 2025, one of the world’s premier automotive industry events. HERE is a trusted partner to China’s top automotive companies, delivering high-quality, AI-powered mapping and location data solutions for the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) era. 

    Located at Booth #2B A052, HERE will showcase its latest technologies and offer a range of interactive demos including:

    • HERE Navigation: The turnkey customizable software solution that delivers a complete navigation experience fit for the digital cockpit.
    • HERE AI Assistant: The intuitive companion for contextual, real-time and predictive location-aware interactions that leverages generative large language models for an optimized total cost of ownership.
    • ADAS Cockpit Experience: The immersive experience spanning Navigation, ADAS, NOA and AD domains for a seamless and continuous experience for the driver.
    • ThunderSoft Demo: Integration of cockpit-driving with multimodal large model capabilities to deliver enhanced functionality and performance.

    Supporting Chinese Automaker Innovation and Global Expansion

    HERE is a trusted mapping and location data provider for the leading Chinese automakers. Taken together, HERE customers account for 80% of Chinese OEMs export volumes in 2024, including BYD, Geely and SAIC Motor, who are partnering with HERE to accelerate their global expansion. HERE delivers a suite of products tailored to power EVs, Navigation on Autopilot (NOA) and digital cockpit vehicle experiences. HERE enables Chinese automakers to seamlessly scale their global operations, enhance driver safety, and deliver next-generation AI-powered driver experiences for international markets.

    HERE delivers a suite of products tailored to power EVs, Navigation on Autopilot (NOA) and digital cockpit vehicle experiences. This includes HERE Automated Driving Zones which allows OEMs to precisely define the Operational Design Domain (ODD) for their ADAS and AD features. With it, they can specify the regions, roads and conditions under which these features can be activated. This tool is essential for safe deployments globally and regulatory compliance. HERE enables Chinese automakers to seamlessly scale their global operations, enhance driver safety, and deliver next-generation AI-powered driver experiences for international markets.

    AI-Powered Technologies for the Future of SDVs

    At the core of HERE’s innovations is artificial intelligence, transforming how location data is processed, analyzed and delivered to enhance vehicle safety, efficiency and user experiences. HERE’s AI-powered mapping architecture dynamically updates road attributes, delivers fresh speed limit information, traffic conditions, EV route calculations and charge point availability, ensuring drivers receive highly precise and context-aware insights. 

    Additionally, the recently-unveiled HERE AI Assistant provides natural language-powered, location-aware guidance, transforming the way drivers and passengers interact with vehicle cockpit and navigation experiences.

    Deep Local Expertise, Enabling Global Success for Chinese Automakers

    As a pioneer in mapping and location technology for 40 years, with digital maps data for more than 200 countries worldwide, HERE combines deep local expertise with global innovation. This unique positioning allows HERE to support Chinese automakers in scaling their technologies and expanding into international markets, and complying with international safety and navigation standards, including the European Union’s Intelligent Speed Assistance regulation.

    “HERE has been a trusted partner to global and Chinese automakers for the past 40 years, and is thrilled to be an exhibitor at Auto Shanghai 2025,” said Deon Newman, Senior Vice President and General Manager for Asia Pacific. “We work with leading automakers globally to provide AI-powered location intelligence solutions that deliver the most innovative driver experiences, Navigation on Autopilot (NOA), and automated driving functions.”

    One of HERE’s long-standing partners is the Neusoft Corporation. The companies are focused on delivering customized intelligent navigation solutions for global markets, supporting Chinese automakers in meeting diverse international requirements and expanding their global reach.

    Guan Xin, General Manager, Neusoft Automotive Innovative Solutions said, “Expanding beyond China comes with unique challenges, from meeting diverse regulatory requirements to ensuring a seamless navigation experience for drivers worldwide. With HERE, we have a trusted partner that helps us localize our solutions while maintaining global consistency. Their AI-powered location technology enables us to deliver smarter, safer and more connected driver experiences as we scale into new markets.”

    Attendees of Auto Shanghai 2025 are invited to visit the HERE booth #2B A052 to experience firsthand how HERE’s location intelligence solutions are enabling smarter, safer, and more sustainable mobility.

    Follow HERE on WeChat to stay updated on our latest innovations and developments.

    Media contacts
    HERE Technologies
    Qifei Zhang 
    +86 186 181 18897 
    rico.zhang@here.com 

    Jordan Stark
    +1 312 316 4537
    jordan.stark@here.com

    Dr. Sebastian Kurme 
    +49 173 515 3549 
    sebastian.kurme@here.com

    About HERE Technologies
    HERE has been a pioneer in mapping and location technology for 40 years. Today, HERE’s location platform is recognized as the most complete in the industry, powering location-based products, services and custom maps for organizations and enterprises across the globe. From autonomous driving and seamless logistics to new mobility experiences, HERE allows its partners and customers to innovate while retaining control over their data and safeguarding privacy. Find out how HERE is moving the world forward at here.com.

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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 16 April 2025 More state homes for Napier changing lives Significant progress has been made increasing the number of state homes available in Napier, an area identified nationally where too many people have nowhere suitable to live.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    In the last eight months, more than 100 new, warm, dry state homes have been added to our portfolio in Napier.

    These homes are changing the lives of the people who are moving into them. Sixty whānau have been able to move out of emergency accommodation including 100 children who are no longer growing up in motels.

    In the last four years, we have built 270 new Napier homes, says Regional Director East North Island Naomi Whitewood (Ngāti Porou, Ngāpuhi). “We have another 55 homes in construction that are expected to be completed in the next three months.”

    “A development of 13 homes has just been finished. Like every new home we complete, these ones were blessed by local kaikarakia before they are occupied. The people who are moving into the homes are invited to the blessing. Meeting these whānau is always a heartwarming occasion. I can see how desperate many peoples’ living situation has been and what a difference having a long-term suitable home makes to build their future around.”

    The moment Chris opened the door to his new home was very emotional.

    One of these people whose life has changed is Chris. He recently moved into one of the new homes in Onekawa after five years living in temporary housing.

    I feel like I have always been on the move, says Chris. “As a child living with my dad, we moved 10 times. Since I moved into emergency housing five years ago, I have moved seven times around different motels. I am looking forward to having a long-term place to fill with love. My brother is living with me and my sister lives close by. We are all supporting each other to live independent lives.

    Chris became homeless after he went through a number of challenges in 2019. He was depressed, drinking to isolate himself socially and he needed to move out of the family home.

    “I moved into emergency accommodation based in a motel room. That was where I was living when we went into COVID lockdown. My mental health really took a dive, and I knew I need to work on myself.”

    “I did this by cutting out the drink and focusing on art. I love to sketch and paint. I will sketch anything and everything. While my life improved doing these things, it was hard living with the uncertainty of not having a long-term home.”

    “That has all changed now. I love living in a clean, fresh home. This has always been important to me. ‘A clean space keeps a happy face” When people visit, they often comment on how nice my place smells. I also like to fill my lungs with fresh air, and nice fragrances. Since moving in I have enjoyed having a garden and growing herbs and vegetables. The next goal is to find a job that I like.”

    While I am grateful to have moved out of emergency accommodation, I do want to thank the management at Fern Motel, the last place I was living. They cater for everyone’s needs and are lovely people to all those who call the motel home for a period of time.”

    Page updated: 16 April 2025

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Agenda – Health Infrastructure Plan ushering in privatisation of the health system – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The PSA strongly opposes moves signalled in the Government’s Health Infrastructure Plan to use public-private partnerships to build new hospital buildings and car parks.
    Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons says the plans’ references to using public-private partnerships and long-term leases to provide health infrastructure is alarming.
    “The plan is ushering in the privatisation of the health system. Buildings and carparks will be the thin end of the wedge,” Fitzsimons says.
    “Privatisation will inevitably mean syphoning money off from providing health services for all to pay profits to private corporations. This will result in only those who can pay being able to access adequate health care and other vital services.
    “Just look at the health system in the USA where the private sector dominates and sick people without health insurance are left at hospital doors. We don’t want that here.
    “The use of the private sector to provide car parks, as proposed in the plan, is a clear example. Car parking at hospitals for patients, staff and visitors is an ongoing problem. But privatising the provision of parking will be more about making profits for car parking companies charging exorbitant parking fees than providing parking for those working at, or using, the hospital.
    “Public health services and assets belong to all of us and are there to deliver for people not shareholders.
    “Privatisation will also mean that the workers who deliver quality public, health services will see their livelihoods threatened by redundancies and reduced pay and conditions,” Fitzsimons says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Storm Safety – With severe wind forecast, now is not the time to be out on the water – Maritime NZ

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Maritime NZ wants to remind ‘she’ll be righters’ and thrill seekers to stay off the water while a significant weather event tracks its way over parts of the country.
    With Easter paired up with ANZAC Day, many people will be planning to head out onto the water.
    MetService says bands of heavy rain and strong winds are forecast for many parts of northern and central New Zealand – starting today in the north, then sweeping south during Thursday and Friday.
    Today, winds gusting more than 50 knots (90 km/h plus) have been recorded off the coasts of Auckland, Northland and the Coromandel.
    Maritime NZ’s Principal Advisor Recreational Craft, Matt Wood says it is just not worth it to head out in these conditions.
    “Some of the winds forecast for the top half of the North Island are the strongest since 2017.
    “It is best to stay at home during this period.
    “Going out on the water with the expected conditions puts you, and potentially rescuers at risk should you get into trouble,” Matt Wood says.
    Maritime NZ’s Rescue Coordination Centre alongside NZ Police are responsible for coordinating search and rescue action when this is required.
    RCCNZ’s General Manager, Justin Allan says they are staffed 24/7 and are always ready alongside their search and rescue system partners to coordinate a rescue. However, he strongly encourages anyone planning on going out to understand the weather conditions as well as the risks to avoid the need for search and rescue action in difficult marine conditions.
    “Rescue missions need to be safe for those undertaking them. Do not underestimate the conditions, keep yourself safe, and consider the impact on those who may need to come to your assistance should you get into trouble,” Justin Allan says.
    Over the last couple of years several rescues occurred after recreational vessels were impacted by severe weather events.
    “There were some close calls and some tragic incidents as well.
    “Last year 17 people lost their lives in recreational boating incidents. Most of these were avoidable and in several cases people were out on the water when conditions were unsafe. Boaties need to ensure conditions are suitable before they hit the water, and if in doubt, don’t go out,” Matt Wood says.
    While the upper North Island will be impacted over the next couple of days, potentially there will be some good spots for boating in the lower North Island and upper half of the South Island, towards the end of the weekend. Ayone planning on getting on the water should check the maritime forecast. MetService has boating forecasts Marine Weather Forecasts and Conditions – MetService New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Coho Hui conference draws global expertise to Ara

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    Ara Institute of Canterbury and The Housing Innovation Society (THIS) have partnered to bring the biennial Coho Hui 2025 to Ōtautahi for 2025.
    The conference-dedicated to advancing collective housing in Aotearoa- is being held at Kahukura, Ara’s academic hub for engineering and architecture studies on April 16 and 17.
    With the theme of “The Future of Housing”, Coho Hui 2025 is bringing together academics, industry leaders and housing professionals to discuss solutions aimed at redefining urban living and tackling systemic housing challenges.
    It’s the first time the event has come to Ara thanks to the efforts of conference organiser Irene Boles, a senior academic in engineering and architecture at the institute.
    Boles said she was excited to bring the leading experts together along with 100 delegates, for academic sessions, workshops and site visits.
    “The rich perspectives our guest experts will be sharing, and the conversations our workshops will generate, will bring diverse ideas and new knowledge to Aotearoa, informing the collective housing movement here,” she said.
    Boles said academic research presented at Coho Hui will be considered for a special issue of the Urbanisation, Sustainability and Society (USS) Journal published by Emerald Publishing.
    Opening the conference, Ara’s Dean of Faculty of Applied Technology, Academic, Innovation and Research Division Peter Sauer said Ara’s values aligned with the aims of Coho Hui.
    “As we look to the future, we understand that the needs of our learners, community and industry are changing quicker than we have ever seen before. We are working at pace to understand and meet those needs as we strive for academic excellence,” Sauer said.
    THIS chair James Winter said community housing in New Zealand was still emerging compared to efforts achieved in other parts of the world.
    “Our goal with this fourth Coho Hui is to bring further awareness to the sector and hopefully see more collective housing projects take off in Aotearoa,” he said in his opening remarks.
    The conference features a powerhouse lineup of speakers, each bringing unique expertise to the conversation on housing innovation.
    They include keynotes from Professor Louise Crabtree-Hayes (Western Sydney University, Australia) and Dr Tom Moore (University of Liverpool, UK).
    Crabtree-Hayes will discuss the state of Community Land Trusts (CLTs) in Australia, exploring how these models ensure permanently affordable housing and what policy support they need to thrive.
    Moore will share his research on community-led housing, touching on the challenges black and minority ethnic communities face, as well as policy lessons from Northern Ireland and innovative approaches to neighborhood transformation.
    Delegates will also visit three unique housing developments in Christchurch on Thursday April 17, each showcasing a different approach to community-led living: Papakāinga at Rāpaki, a Māori-led housing initiative; Te Pākau Maru in New Brighton, designed for community sustainability; and Peterborough Village, a central city collective housing neighborhood focused on urban regeneration.
    Boles wanted to acknowledge the event’s sponsors Abodo Wood Ltd, The Urban Advisory, and 26Aroha for helping to make the hui possible.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fast-track fiasco: KASM slams seabed mining bid in South Taranaki

    Source: Kiwis Against Seabed Mining (KASM)

    Wannabe seabed miners Trans Tasman Resources (TTR) have now applied for fast-track approval to dig up the South Taranaki Bight seabed, but community organisation Kiwis Against Seabed Mining (KASM) questioned whether the company had done the work required to give the EPA a full picture of the consequences, and whether it has consulted as it should have.

    The company’s 100% Australian owner Manuka Resources posted a notice to the Australian Stock Exchange today saying yesterday it had submitted an application to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) for consent to start seabed mining in the South Taranaki Bight, to dig up 50 million tonnes of the seabed a year, and dump 95% of it back down into the Bight. The EPA now has 15 days to mark it as “complete” before appointing a panel to consider the application.

    KASM chairperson Cindy Baxter said TTR hadn’t filled in the gaps in understanding the massive impact of the operation, which would take place in a 66 square km section of the Bight.

    “This company hasn’t done any new modelling of the sediment plume since 2017, a fact that was brought to light in a hearing last year, when the hearing committee was contemplating commissioning its own modelling to fill that gap,” she said. “They see the fast track as a shortcut and are acting like it’s a fait accompli,” she said.

    For example, in 2014, the EPA refused consent, and told TTR to go back and do a full marine mammal survey. It did not do this for the second application, nor for the re-hearing, and still has not done so.

    “We call on the EPA to check this application thoroughly, because we don’t think the company has done the mahi to show it would cause no harm – and to ensure proper environmental protection. It hasn’t done the right modelling and any approval process would be operating in the dark.”

    Meanwhile KASM noted that community opposition to the project remains absolutely staunch, with protests planned in Opunake next weekend, including a paddle-out planned on Saturday 26 April, as a 1300-strong local petition continues to grow.

    “We know the community is vehemently opposed to this destructive project, from Iwi, to the majority of the councils, the surfers at Opunake and across the region – to the NZ-First and ACT-voters who love fishing,” she said.

    “Equally, anyone who lives on a black sand beach on the west coast of both islands should be concerned, because if this project goes through it will set a precedent. But of course under this process, the fast-track panel will hear none of this widespread concern, because our coin-operated government that’s beholden to its industrial funders has shut us out.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Job losses at Callaghan Innovation continue to climb – 64 redundancies announced today – PSA

    Source: PSA

    Another 64 proposed redundancies were announced by Callaghan Innovation today in its continued disestablishment as part of the Government’s overhaul of the science sector.
    Included in the proposed redundancies are 48 scientists working in Callaghan Innovation’s Applied Technologies group.
    “There are scientists working in medical technology, artificial intelligence, robotics and mechatronics that are proposed to lose their jobs. New Zealand needs their skills and expertise,” says Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons.
    “These are experts that could have had a home in the Advanced Technology Public Research Organisation the Government says its planning to establish, we call on the Minister to intervene urgently and make sure we retain these staff in our science system.”
    “People with valuable skills are being cast aside, even though their skills are important for the future science system. The Minister has said that the science reforms are not about job losses but you only have to look at Callaghan Innovation to see this simply is not true.”
    “Instead, of planning properly the Government pushed the cuts through in a rush leaving talented science professionals with nowhere to go,” Fitzsimons says.
    “While Minister Dr Shane Reti did save some scientists’ roles by extending the funding for the Biotechnologies teams out to 30 June 2027, this has not gone far enough,” Fitzsimons says.
    Today’s proposed cuts are on top of 43 redundancies progressed from a February proposal in response to the science sector reforms outlined by the then Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins. Another 13 roles have been lost through attrition during this time
    Looking back further, since July 2024 Callaghan Innovation will have lost 164 roles, 42% of its workforce, which includes redundancies from previous restructures and reduction in roles via attrition.
    The coalition Government changes aim to merge the seven CRIs into three PROs, establish a fourth Advanced Technology PRO, and disestablish Callaghan Innovation.
    “Today’s announcement underscores the poorly planned way in which changes in the public science sector are being implemented. There’s been little consideration as to how roles might be retained or transferred to the new PROs, risking New Zealand losing innovative experience and knowledge,” said Fitzsimons.
    Union figures show there will be 224 employees working at Callaghan Innovation by 1 October 2025, which will continue to decrease until the entity’s full disestablishment in mid-2026.
    This group is made up of roles transferring elsewhere (including the Measurement Standards Laboratory, Biotechnologies, and grants and funding functions), staff employed to support these functions in the interim (such as, IT, finance, HR, administration), and those whose future is still uncertain. Further redundancies are likely, if the roles aren’t lost via attrition first.
    “When Callaghan is finally disestablished in 2026 New Zealand will have no government agency dedicated to applied technology research despite this being a clear focus of the government’s reforms,” Fitzsimons says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Madness to slash Reserve Bank budget at a time of economic challenge – PSA

    Source: PSA

    At a time of turmoil in the international economic landscape, it doesn’t make sense to kneecap one of the key agencies dedicated to helping New Zealand meet its challenges.
    The Government today announced a deep 25% cut in the bank’s five-year operational funding arrangement.
    “How does this fit with the Government’s economic growth agenda?” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “The bank’s inflation mandate is a key tool for economic management. It fights inflation so the economy can flourish without the damaging impacts of runaway inflation.
    “This will see highly skilled people lose their jobs and for what end? Once again, we are seeing the Government happy to cut people without producing the evidence that the cuts won’t impact outcomes.
    “As we have seen across the public sector, this is a government happy to axe experienced people charged with doing critical long-term thinking and gathering the evidence for making good policy decisions.
    “Undermining the Reserve Bank is just more short-term thinking without regard to consequences.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Event: Official Opening of New Zealand’s first Veteran Support Centre – RNZRSA

    Source: RNZRSA

     

    On Tuesday 22 April, the RNZRSA will officially open its first Veteran Support Centre in Manurewa.

     

    The opening will be conducted by Minister for Veterans Hon Chris Penk, the RNZRSA’s National President Sir Wayne (Buck) Shelford and Board Chair LT GEN (Retd) Rhys Jones.

     

    The opening of the Manurewa RSA Veteran Support Centre represents the first step of a modernisation programme designed to provide better connections between the RSA and New Zealand’s veteran population.

     

    Date:               Tuesday 22 April

    Time:               2.00 pm

    Location:        Manurewa RSA – 22 Scenic Drive, Hill Park, Auckland

    Set up:            Available from 1.45pm.

     

    Background

     

    What is a Veteran Support Centre?

     

    The RNZRSA recognises that times are changing, and today’s veterans connect in different ways to previous generations.

     

    The RSA Veteran Support Centres are multi-use facilities bringing together a range of health and wellbeing services – and provide space for community and connection.

     

    Veteran Support Centres are not replacing the traditional RSA hospitality venues, but complement them by providing a wider range of options for veterans to connect with the RSA.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers – Farm plan improvements heading in the right direction

    Source: Federated Farmers

    The Government’s proposed improvements to farm plans are a positive step towards a more practical and affordable solution, but the devil will be in the detail, Federated Farmers says.
    “Farm plans have huge potential to cut unnecessary red tape, compliance costs, and consenting requirements for farmers,” Federated Farmers vice president Colin Hurst says.
    “A tailored farm planning system that takes a risk-based approach will provide strong environmental protections without the over-the-top bureaucracy we’ve seen in recent years.
    “For a farmer, this has the potential to be a game changer, replacing the need for expensive and uncertain resource consents or constantly changing council rules.”
    Federated Farmers are welcoming the Government’s intention to have a new farm plan system in place by the end of the year.
    “This is a really positive start and will give farmers a lot of confidence in the direction of travel – but there’s still a lot more detail that we’re going to need to see,” Hurst says.
    “Farmers are expecting to see the Government have nailed down a streamlined system that is affordable, enduring, and responsive to different catchment priorities.
    “They’re making all the right noises – but we’ll be keeping a close eye on the process and engaging with the Government to make sure the system works in practice.”
    Hurst is particularly pleased to see Ministers have agreed to reduce the number of farms required to have a plan and to take a risk-based approach to certification.
    Until the current Government ordered a ‘pause’ last year, the previous administration was rolling out farm plans for all farms over 20 hectares.
    “That was totally over the top and cast the net unnecessarily wide, catching a whole heap of lifestyle blocks that aren’t really commercial farms in the process,” Hurst says.
    “Federated Farmers made a strong case that 50ha would be a much more pragmatic threshold, and today’s announcement that fewer farms will need a farm plan shows we were heard.”
    Hurst also welcomes confirmation that farmers won’t need a new plan when they already have an existing industry plan in place that achieves equivalent environment outcomes.
    “That’s a huge win for common sense and will cut out a lot of unnecessary cost, duplication and box-ticking for farmers.”
    The new farm plan system will act as an alternative to local council rules and consents where appropriate, allowing farmers to meet requirements in a way that works for their farm system.
    “This is where Federated Farmers would like to see the Government go much further to rein in district and regional council bureaucrats,” Hurst says.
    “Farm plans and the roll out of a new RMA replacement present a huge opportunity to prevent them from piling on additional rules, restrictions and consent requirements over and above what’s required with new national standards.”
    Questions also remain over the certification of farm plans and who will pay for audits for compliance – two significant issues for farmers.
    “We’ll be keeping a close eye on those issues and working with the Government on behalf of our members to make sure they get it right,” Hurst concluded.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace pledges continued fight against seabed mining as Australian miners lodge EPA application

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace says it will continue the fight to stop seabed mining starting in Aotearoa after Trans-Tasman Resources (TTR) announced it has reapplied to the Environmental Protection Authority via the Fast-Track Act to start seabed mining in the South Taranaki Bight.
    Greenpeace is urging the EPA to throw out the seabed mining application without delay.
    Greenpeace spokesperson Juressa Lee says, “With our allies in the Taranaki community and beyond, Greenpeace has opposed TTR’s seabed mining application for more than 10 years. We challenged them all the way to the Supreme Court and won. TTR failed to show that seabed mining wouldn’t harm the environment and pulled out of the EPA hearings in March 2024.
    “Now these wannabe seabed miners are grasping at the lifeline thrown by the Luxon government’s fast-track process to revive their zombie project, but fast track or not, we will not let it happen without a fight.
    “The EPA should reject the TTR seabed mining application without delay, and throw it in the bin. They have already heard overwhelming expert evidence against this dangerous new industry and should take it into account now.
    “More than 53,000 people have signed a petition to stop seabed mining. The EPA must recognise Greenpeace’s long-running opposition and civil society advocacy and allow these thousands of supporters some representation in an otherwise non-transparent process. Alongside iwi, hapū and our allies, we will make sure to stop seabed mining before it ever gets a foothold in the moana around Aotearoa.”
    More than 20,000 people marched for nature against the Fast Track in June 2024, showing their opposition to the most damaging piece of environmental legislation any Government has introduced in living memory.
    Trans-Tasman Resources is planning to extract 50 million tonnes of iron sand from the South Taranaki Bight every year for 35 years and dump 45 million tonnes a year back into the ocean.
    Seabed mining in the South Taranaki Bight would damage rich ecosystems and threaten precious marine life such as the pygmy blue whale, Māui and Hector’s dolphins and kororā.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: We compared the Labor and Coalition’s income tax proposals to see who benefits most

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra

    Shutterstock

    We now have the competing bids for our votes by the alternative governments on income tax policy.

    From Labor, future cuts to the lowest marginal tax rate and new standard deductions for work expenses. From the Coalition, a one-off return to a tax offset for low and middle income earners that was previously nicknamed the “lamington”.

    Our modelling shows slightly higher benefits for low- and middle-income earners from the Coalition’s proposals compared to Labor’s.

    Labor’s drip-fed tax policies

    The Labor government announced its main tax proposal in the recent budget. It is a permanent cut in the lowest marginal tax rate.

    Currently, the tax rate on income between A$18,201 and $45,000 is 16%. This will drop to 15% from July 2026 and then to 14% from July 2027.

    This will reduce the tax paid by taxpayers in all income brackets, with most receiving $536 a year in relief. But it is proportionately larger for those on lower incomes.



    Read more:
    Tax cuts are coming, but not soon, in a cautious budget

    At the weekend, the government announced an additional measure: allowing everyone to claim a standard tax deduction of $1,000 instead of claiming individual work-related expenses.

    Those with expenses over $1,000 can continue to claim their deduction in the current way. The government estimates this measure will assist 39% of taxpayers. The average relief for those benefiting will be $205 per year.

    Coalition’s revived tax offset

    Also at the weekend, the Coalition released its tax policies. It is essentially proposing the reintroduction of the Low and Middle Income Tax Offset (“LMITO”, which led to the nickname the “lamington”), for one financial year only.



    Read more:
    The Low and Middle Income Tax Offset has been extended yet again. It delivers help neither when nor where it’s needed

    The Morrison government introduced a low- and middle-income tax offset in the 2018-19 tax year. It was subsequently extended, but then abolished by the Labor government.

    It is now called the Cost of Living Tax Offset. Those with taxable incomes between $48,000 and $104,000 will get a one-off rebate of $1,200. Other taxpayers with incomes below $144,000 will get smaller rebates.



    Read more:
    Dutton to offer targeted income tax offset of up to $1,200

    Although Dutton was critical of Labor’s income tax cuts for not starting until 2026, the one-off rebate would also not be paid until mid-2026.

    Dutton has not explained why he said three weeks ago that the budget position would not allow for income tax cuts but now he thinks it does.

    Who benefits most from the competing proposals?

    We have estimated the distribution of the benefits from Labor’s proposed tax cut (but not the instant tax deduction) and the Coalition’s one-year tax offset.

    Given a federal election is held every three years, the estimates are provided up to mid-2028. This resulted in a slightly higher cumulative figure of around $10 billion for the Labor proposal (over two years) and $11 billion for the Coalition proposal (over one year). This is slightly higher than the Coalition’s own estimate.

    The following charts show disposable household income deciles from the poorest 10% to the 10% with the highest incomes. This is household income that has been adjusted to allow comparison of income levels between households of differing size and composition.

    The chart indicates slightly higher benefits from the Coalition for households in the lowest and second-lowest income groups. This may be an overestimate as it assumes those earning less than $37,000 get a $265 benefit. The policy is rather vague on this, saying only that they would get “up to” $265.

    The Coalition proposal provides a somewhat higher benefit for middle income earners, but withdraws it for those on higher incomes.

    All individual taxpayers earning above $45,000 will receive the same benefit from the Labor proposal. But differences in household composition mean that the benefit calculated by household continues to rise somewhat.

    The Coalition proposal gives no benefits to individuals earning over $144,000. But even the households in the highest income groups have some members earning less than this, such as adult children living at home. So the average household with a high income will still get some benefit.

    In terms of family type, the Coalition proposal will give less benefit than the Labor plan to couples with children but more to other groups, especially single parents.

    From these distributions of both income level and family type, it seems that neither party has a clear plan to target their own traditional constituencies with these policies. The Coalition proposal may be targeting households in outer suburban marginal seats which tend to have more low and middle income households.

    How much will they cost?

    According to the budget papers, Labor’s cut to the lowest marginal rate will cost $3 billion in 2026-27, $6.7 billion in 2027-28 and $7.4 billion in 2028-29.

    The cost of the instant tax deduction will be $2.4 billion over four years.

    The Coalition has claimed its rebate would cost $10 billion in 2026-27.

    This would of course increase if a Dutton government feels under pressure to extend the new rebate, as happened with the LMITO.

    Disappointing for democratic decision-making

    It is very disappointing that both major parties are releasing key policies on taxation and housing literally only days before people start voting.

    Previous leaders like Robert Menzies (when opposition leader from 1943 to 1949) and Gough Whitlam (1967 to 1972) would spend years developing, then explaining and advocating for policies. This gave time for them to be scrutinised, and if necessary revised, before voters were asked to pass judgement.

    The proposals are also disappointing for those arguing for substantial tax reform.

    John Hawkins was formerly a senior economist in the Australian Treasury.

    Yogi Vidyattama 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. We compared the Labor and Coalition’s income tax proposals to see who benefits most – https://theconversation.com/we-compared-the-labor-and-coalitions-income-tax-proposals-to-see-who-benefits-most-254576

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia Events – Accessibility Advisory Committee appointed to enhance inclusivity at leading Victorian venues – MCEC

    Source: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC)

    16 April 2025 – Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET), operators of the globally renowned Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and soon-to-open Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, have taken a significant step towards inclusivity by appointing four individuals living with disabilities to its Accessibility Advisory committee.
    VCET is the first convention centre operator in Australia to appoint a permanent external advisory committee dedicated to creating accessible, inclusive experiences for customers, visitors and employees.
    Following an open expression of interest process, Briar Harte, Nikhil Bora, Jess Price and Alex Stratikis were appointed to the committee.
    Each committee member brings a unique expertise to the table:

    • Briar Harte is a specialist in inclusive design and a former winner of the Disability Inclusion Changemaker of the Year award.
    • Nikhil Bora is an experience designer and co-founder of SignHow, a start-up that developed the first community-driven sign language dictionary.
    • Jess Price is the founder and Chief Vision Officer of Paradigm Makers, a business consultancy that designs solutions that respond to systemic workplace challenges.
    • Alex Stratikis is a tourism consultant, writer, and founder of Autism Adventures Abroad, providing content and travel advice for autistic adults.

    Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM was delighted to join the committee members for their inaugural meeting earlier this month.

    “At MCEC and Nyaal Banyul, we aim to create spaces where people of all abilities can connect, discover and enjoy. By actively engaging people with lived experience, we hope to ensure our facilities and services are truly inclusive and welcoming to all.”

    “The Accessibility Advisory Committee members bring a wealth of knowledge, personal and professional experience to the table and I look forward to the progress we can make together.”

    The establishment of the Accessibility Advisory Committee aligns with VCET’s commitments to improving services and facilities at MCEC and Nyaal Banyul, as outlined in the Accessibility Action Plan launched last year. The committee will play a crucial role in monitoring progress and holding the organisation accountable to its commitments.

    Significant advancements have already been made at MCEC, including the opening of a Changing Place facility earlier this year and achieving Limited Mobility Accessible Tourism Accreditation.

    MCEC’s Customer Service team have also undertaken Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training, which recognises over 900 non-visible disabilities, chronic illnesses and health conditions, to better support visitors with diverse needs.

    Looking ahead at Nyaal Banyul, which is set to open in mid-2026, Universal Design Principles have been embedded to ensure accessibility and inclusivity from the moment the doors open. The new venue will feature a Changing Place Facility, sensory rooms, fully accessible seating, augmented hearing assistance and high-contrast wayfinding.

    VCET is committed to setting a positive example for the event industry, listening to lived experience and taking proactive steps to improve accessibility and inclusivity across two world-class venues.

    Two committee members had this to say about their appointment:

    “My goal is to help shift accessibility from something people have to ask for into something they can expect by design,” Jess Price.  

    “I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge as a disability inclusion advocate and experience as a Mum with a disability. Too often I avoid events for fear of accessibility barriers, I look forward to helping make Melbourne events more and more accessible for families like ours,” Briar Harte.

    About Victorian Convention and Event Trust

    With over 30 years of event management expertise, the Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET) is the powerhouse behind two of Victoria’s most iconic venues- Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and the soon-to-open Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.

    ABOUT MCEC

    At Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), visionary ideas come to life, and the world’s thought leaders gather. The iconic venue hosts dynamic exhibitions, conferences, galas, and concerts—everyone who visits leaves inspired and excited.  

    MCEC loves all communities and interests, creating a space where everyone feels welcome. Blending trendy eats, sustainability, and cutting-edge tech, it creates mind-blowing, globally recognised events.  

    Thanks to its progressive sustainability practices, choosing MCEC means making a positive environmental impact. Feel Melbourne’s vibe, discover the next big thing, and be part of the conversation that shapes the future.

    About Nyaal Banyul

    Welcome to Nyaal Banyul, where we gather on the waterfront of Wadawurrung land, continuing traditions of knowledge-sharing and gathering.

    Embedded in layers of Country, Nyaal Banyul immerses you in sky, sea, and land. Experience discovery and connection in Geelong/Dijlang’s newest venue.

    With a 1,000 seat-theatre and 3,700 square meters of versatile space, this venue hosts everything from community gatherings to large-scale conferences. The precent enhances Geelong with shops, diverse eateries, a public plaza and a 200-room hotel.

    So come gather with us.

    Open your eyes to the hills.

    Open your hear to community.

    Open your mind to a new perspective.

    Acknowledgement of Country

    We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we operate our venues in Narrm and Djilang; the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Wadawurrung peoples of the Kulin Nations. We pay our respects to Elders of all First Nations communities and seek to honour the long-standing tradition of building community and exchanging ideas on these lands.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: No more tomo fomo on State Highway 4

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    State Highway 4 (SH4) between Manunui and National Park has reopened early to 1 lane this afternoon under stop/go, and will be fully reopen by the end of the day under a temporary speed limit.

    The highway has been closed since Monday morning 14 April for emergency repairs, due to the discovery of a tomo (cavity) under the road at Mansons Siding, Raurimu.

    “The tomo was likely formed due to erosion from a concentration of moisture under the road,” says Sandra King, System Manager Waikato for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

    “Repairs involved excavating 5 metres below the road level. The team constructed a drainage blanket at the base of the excavation and again at approximately 2 metres deep to ensure any moisture in this sensitive geological location was able to drain.

    “Contractors finished building material back up to 400mm below surface this morning and are reinstating the pavement now,” Ms King says.

    The speed limit will remain over the Easter weekend to allow the surface to settle safely before contractors return next week to prep the surface and seal.

    Ms King advises road users to take care through the site and thanks them for their patience.

    A Downer contractor using a remote controlled mini padfoot trench roller.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Goods mail services to US suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Hongkong Post announced today that it has suspended the postal service for items containing goods to the US.

     

    When explaining its decision, Honkong Post pointed out that the US Government announced earlier that it would eliminate the duty-free de minimis treatment for postal items dispatched from Hong Kong to the US and increase the tariffs for postal items containing goods to the US starting from May 2.

     

    Apart from stressing that the US is unreasonable, bullying and imposing tariffs abusively, Hongkong Post emphasised that it will definitely not collect any so-called tariffs on behalf of the US and will suspend the acceptance of postal items containing goods destined to the US.

     

    It noted that regarding surface mail, due to the longer shipping time, Hongkong Post will suspend the acceptance of surface postal items containing goods destined to the US with immediate effect.

     

    Where senders have posted surface postal items containing goods that have not yet been shipped to the US, Hongkong Post made it clear that it will contact the senders to arrange for the return of such items and refund the postage paid starting April 22.

     

    Concerning air mail, Hongkong Post stated that it will suspend the acceptance of air postal items containing goods destined to the US starting April 27.

     

    Other postal items containing documents only without goods will not be affected, it added.

     

    Call 2921 2222 for enquiries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Eternex Network (eTRNX) Launches to Empower the Future of Finance Through Blockchain, AI, and Real-World Utility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eternex Network (eTRNX) introduces a next-generation blockchain ecosystem designed to transform how people save, invest, and transact. Built on the fast and efficient Tron blockchain and enhanced by AI-powered innovation, eTRNX is crafted to empower individuals and businesses across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East with accessible, transparent, and decentralized financial tools.

    With the Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) currently live, early supporters have the unique opportunity to join a project focused on delivering real-world blockchain utility where it matters most.

    The Mission: Financial Inclusion Without Borders

    eTRNX aims to deliver secure, low-cost, and accessible financial services that go beyond conventional limitations. From tokenized investments in real estate to AI-driven risk assessments, eTRNX is setting the stage for the next evolution of digital finance.

    Live IEO: Be Among the First Movers

    The IEO of eTRNX is now live on p2p, offering investors early access to one of the most promising digital assets in the DeFi space. With only 1 million tokens currently in circulation out of a total supply of 2 billion, early adopters have the advantage of entering at the ground floor of a fast-scaling ecosystem.

    Following the strong momentum on P2PB2B, eTRNX is expanding its Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) to more platforms.

    The second phase of the IEO is now live on DEX-Trade and Bitstorage, giving even more early supporters the opportunity to join the movement and acquire eTRNX tokens before they hit major exchanges.

    This multi-platform IEO approach ensures broader access and liquidity, further accelerating the adoption of the Eternex ecosystem.

    What Sets eTRNX Apart

    • AI-Powered Fraud Detection & Risk Assessment
    • Multi-currency & cross-border payment support
    • Ultra-low transaction fees (as low as $0.000005)
    • Real-time settlements and asset tracking
    • Seamless staking and yield farming with up to 30% APY
    • Compliance-ready via CMA’s Regulatory Sandbox

    Real-World Use Cases: Blockchain That Touches Lives

    1. Everyday Commerce – Seamless Local Transactions

    Using eTRNX, users can pay for groceries and daily essentials at local markets through simple QR code scans—no bank fees, no waiting times.
    Impact: Transaction costs are reduced by over 50% compared to traditional mobile money services, making everyday purchases more efficient and affordable.

    2. Real Estate Investing – Accessible and Automated

    With a small initial investment, individuals can gain exposure to income-generating real estate properties through tokenized ownership. Monthly rental dividends are distributed automatically, powered by smart contracts.
    How: Fractional ownership through eTRNX-powered Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).
    Impact: Democratizes property investment by eliminating high capital barriers and providing global access to real estate markets.

    3. Cross-Border Remittances – Instant and Cost-Effective

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister Panapasi Nelesone 

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-04-10
    President Lai pens Bloomberg News article on Taiwan’s response to US reciprocal tariffs
    On April 10, an article penned by President Lai Ching-te entitled “Taiwan Has a Roadmap for Deeper US Trade Ties” was published by Bloomberg News, explaining to a global audience Taiwan’s strategy on trade with the United States, as well as how Taiwan will engage in dialogue with the aim of removing bilateral trade barriers, increasing investment between Taiwan and the US, and reducing tariffs to zero. The following is the full text of President Lai’s article: Last month, the first of Taiwan’s 66 new F-16Vs rolled off the assembly line in Greenville, South Carolina. Signed during President Donald Trump’s first term, the $8 billion deal stands as a testament to American ingenuity and leadership in advanced manufacturing. Beyond its economic impact – creating thousands of well-paying jobs across the US – it strengthens the foundations of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.  This deal is emblematic of the close interests shared between Taiwan and the US. Our bond is forged by an unwavering belief in freedom and liberty. For decades, our two countries have stood shoulder-to-shoulder in deterring communist expansionism. Even as Beijing intensifies its air force and naval exercises in our vicinity, we remain resolute. Taiwan will always be a bastion of democracy and peace in the region. This partnership extends well beyond the security realm. Though home to just 23 million people, Taiwan has in recent years become a significant investor in America. TSMC recently announced it will raise its total investment in the US to $165 billion – an initiative that will create 40,000 construction jobs and tens of thousands more in advanced chip manufacturing and R&D. This investment will bolster the emergence of a new high-tech cluster in Arizona. Taiwan is committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in manufacturing and innovation. As a trade-dependent economy, our long-term success is built on trade relationships that are fair, reciprocal and mutually beneficial. Encouraging Taiwanese businesses to expand their global footprint, particularly in the US, is a vital part of this strategy. Deepening commercial ties between Taiwanese and American firms is another. These core principles will guide our response to President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs. First, we will seek to restart trade negotiations with a common objective of reducing all tariffs between Taiwan and the US. While Taiwan already maintains low tariffs, with an average nominal rate of 6%, we are willing to further cut this rate to zero on the basis of reciprocity with the US. By removing the last vestiges to free and fair trade, we seek to encourage greater trade and investment flows between our two countries. Second, Taiwan will rapidly expand procurement of American goods. Over the past five years, rising demand for semiconductors and AI-related components has increased our trade surplus. In response to these market trends, Taiwan will seek to narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy, agriculture and other industrial goods from the US. These efforts will create thousands of new jobs across multiple sectors.  We’ll also pursue additional arms procurements that are vital to our self-defense and contribute to peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait. During President Trump’s first term, we secured $18 billion in arms deals, including advanced fighter jets, tanks and anti-ship missiles. Future purchases, which are not reflected in trade balances, build on our economic and security partnership while being essential to Taiwan’s “Peace Through Strength” approach. Third, new investments will be made across the US. Already, Taiwanese firms support 400,000 jobs throughout all 50 states. Beyond TSMC, we also see emerging opportunities in electronics, ICT, energy and petrochemicals. We will establish a cross-agency “US Investment Team” to support bilateral trade and investment – and we hope that efforts will be reciprocated by the Trump administration. Fourth, we are committed to removing non-tariff trade barriers. Taiwan will take concrete steps to resolve persistent issues that have long impeded trade negotiations. And finally, we will strongly address US concerns over export controls and improper transshipment of low-cost goods through Taiwan. These steps form the basis of a comprehensive roadmap for how Taiwan will navigate the shifting trade landscape, transforming challenges in the Taiwan-US economic relationship into new opportunities for growth, resilience and strategic alignment. At a time of growing global uncertainty, underpinned by growing Chinese assertiveness, closer trade ties are more than sound economics; they are a critical pillar of regional security. Our approach is long-term and principled, grounded in a lasting commitment to our friendship with the US, a firm belief in the benefits of fair and reciprocal trade, and an unwavering dedication to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We are confident that our shared economic and security interests will not only overcome turbulence in the international trade environment – they will define the future of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    Details
    2025-04-08
    President Lai receives credentials from new Tuvalu Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae  
    On the morning of April 8, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lily Tangisia Faavae. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to her new post and thanked Tuvalu for its long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation. The president also noted that joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. He expressed his hope that we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a great pleasure today to receive the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu Lily Tangisia Faavae. On behalf of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my warmest welcome to you. Last year, the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Tuvalu celebrated 45 years of diplomatic relations. Prime Minister Feleti Teo visited Taiwan in May last year for the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao and again in October for our National Day celebrations. When I visited Tuvalu last December, I was warmly received by the government and people of Tuvalu, and I deeply felt that our two countries were like family. Ambassador Faavae’s posting to Taiwan demonstrates the importance Prime Minister Teo places on our ties. Widely recognized for her exceptional talent, Ambassador Faavae is an outstanding official with extensive experience in public service. Moreover, during her term as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, she voiced support for Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. I believe that with her assistance, our two nations will further advance cooperation and exchanges. I want to thank the government of Tuvalu for long supporting Taiwan’s international participation. Furthermore, joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. Last year, Prime Minister Teo and I signed a joint communiqué on advancing the comprehensive partnership between Taiwan and Tuvalu. Going forward, we will stand together in tackling the challenges we face, including climate change and expanding authoritarianism. And we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. Once again, I warmly welcome Ambassador Faavae to her new post in Taiwan. Please convey warmest regards from Taiwan to Prime Minister Teo and all of our friends in Tuvalu. I wish you all the best in work and life during your term in Taiwan. Ambassador Faavae then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor and privilege to meet with President Lai today as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to Taiwan, and to present to him her letter of credence. She then extended, on behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, her warmest greetings and deep respect to the president and people of Taiwan. The letter of credence, she noted, signifies the trust and confidence that her government and governor-general have placed in her to represent their nation and to foster and strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our countries. Ambassador Faavae said that our two countries have enjoyed a longstanding relationship of 45 years based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values. She added that we have collaborated, and continue to do so, in such fields as education, health, climate change adaptation and sea level rise mitigation, agriculture, clean energy, and internet connectivity.  Ambassador Faavae pointed out that Tuvalu remains committed to deepening ties with Taiwan and that it values people-to-people connections and our shared Austronesian heritage. She noted that the people of Tuvalu, a small developing nation, have greatly benefited from Taiwan’s advanced technical expertise and diverse financial assistance. She said she believes Tuvalu and Taiwan share a common interest and are united in our efforts and commitment to upholding democracy, peace, stability, and prosperity for our people and making the world better and safer.  Ambassador Faavae stated that as ambassador of Tuvalu to Taiwan, she pledges to work diligently and respectfully to enhance our bilateral relations, promote mutual understanding, and facilitate collaboration in areas of shared concern. The ambassador said she looks forward to collaborating closely with the Taiwan government and other stakeholders to achieve our common objectives and to continue building a more prosperous and harmonious future for our nations. In closing, she thanked President Lai for the opportunity to serve and to further the enduring friendship between our two countries.  

    Details
    2025-03-28
    President Lai meets British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones
    On the afternoon of March 28, President Lai Ching-te met with British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones. In remarks, President Lai welcomed Representative Bradley-Jones as she takes up her post in Taiwan, and thanked the United Kingdom government and parliament for demonstrating staunch support for Taiwan. The president indicated that Taiwan and the UK enjoy close economic and trade ties, and our industries complement each other well, with great potential for collaboration in such fields as semiconductors, AI, unmanned vehicles, and medium- and low-orbit satellites. He stated that he looks forward to expanding exchanges with the UK across all domains so as to enhance democratic and economic resilience, jointly advancing the prosperous development of the Indo-Pacific region and economic security around the world. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to meet Representative Bradley-Jones here at the Presidential Office for this exchange. I understand that she has proactively called at many government agencies since taking up her post last month. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome. Taiwan and the UK are partners that share the values of freedom and democracy. In recent years, our bilateral relations have continued to deepen. With the efforts of Representative Bradley-Jones and our respective governments, I look forward to the expansion of dialogue and cooperation between Taiwan and the UK. This will further elevate our bilateral ties. Especially in the face of expanding authoritarianism, the UK is not only playing an important role in crafting a unified European response; it is also demonstrating staunch support for Taiwan through various channels. For example, joint statements released after the Australia-UK ministerial consultations, as well as the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting, underlined a high level of concern for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The UK government has publicly expressed support for Taiwan’s international participation on multiple occasions. And last November, the UK House of Commons passed a motion clearly asserting that United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not mention Taiwan. These actions attest to the UK’s belief in supporting democracy and peace, and have further solidified our countries’ friendship. I would like to convey my deepest gratitude to the UK government and parliament.  Currently, the UK is Taiwan’s fourth largest trading partner in Europe and second largest source of investment from Europe. We enjoy close economic and trade ties, and our industries complement each other well. There is also great potential for collaboration in such fields as semiconductors, AI, unmanned vehicles, and medium- and low-orbit satellites. We look forward to expanding exchanges with the UK across all domains so as to enhance democratic and economic resilience. We also hope the UK will continue to support Taiwan’s bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership so that together, we can work with more like-minded partners, jointly advancing the prosperous development of the Indo-Pacific region and economic security around the world. Once again, I welcome Representative Bradley-Jones to Taiwan and wish her all the best with her work. I anticipate that Taiwan-UK relations will continue to steadily advance through our joint efforts. Representative Bradley-Jones then delivered remarks, first saying in Mandarin that she is honored to meet with President Lai to discuss topics of mutual concern and jointly deepen Taiwan-UK relations, promoting mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation. She went on to say that she came to Taiwan last August to study Mandarin, and began her post as British Office Taipei representative in February this year, noting that every day she learns more about and gains a deeper understanding of Taiwan. Last year, she said, she visited Tainan and Wanli, and found Tainan’s wetlands and the scenery in Wanli very impressive. She added that she has also tried many different Taiwanese foods, and is looking forward to experiencing even more of Taiwan’s local culture and customs over the next four years. Continuing her remarks in English, Representative Bradley-Jones stated that since taking up her post, she has borne witness to the strength of the relationship between Taiwan and the UK and the potential for it to continue to grow. She said that on trade and investment, there is significant complementarity between Taiwan’s Five Trusted Industry Sectors and the UK’s Industrial Strategy, particularly in areas such as digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy. Both governments are also together supporting Taiwan and UK businesses through our Enhanced Trade Partnership and annual trade talks, she said. Representative Bradley-Jones went on to say that on science and technology, Taiwan and the UK can and should do more together. She noted that the UK has the third largest tech sector in the world and is valued at over US$1.1 trillion, while Taiwan is the center of the semiconductor and AI hardware world. Given our complementary strengths, especially in areas such as semiconductors, space, and communications technology, she said, the UK has stepped up its level of activity in Taiwan, including by regularly hosting a UK Pavilion at SEMICON and funding 18 joint R&D programs through our new collaborative R&D fund, and looks forward to doing more together in the future.  In support of Taiwan’s whole-of-society resilience, the representative said, the UK is supporting valuable exchanges, co-hosting GCTF (Global Cooperation and Training Framework) workshops, sharing lessons on financial sector resilience, and reaching out to mayors and community leaders across Taiwan. From financial resilience to cyber resilience, she said, the UK’s public sector and private industries have plenty to share and learn. Representative Bradley-Jones stated that on people-to-people links, parliamentarians, civil society, and academics are continuing to deepen contact, and that she is particularly excited by a new smart parliament partnership agreed upon by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy and the UK’s Westminster Foundation for Democracy, which aims to facilitate cross-party, cross-society, and cross-border exchanges on issues such as democratic governance, AI, inclusive policy-making, and public safety. The representative indicated that the examples she mentioned just scratch the surface of the full potential of the Taiwan-UK relationship. She said that the UK’s longstanding policy remains unchanged, and fundamentally, that is because we share a common set of values and interests. We are together focused on how to make our societies safer and more prosperous tomorrow than they are today, she said, and as like-minded democracies, innovative economies, and practical partners, the sincere and pragmatic cooperation between Taiwan and the UK is bringing material benefits to the prosperity and well-being of our people every day. 

    Details
    2025-03-21
    President Lai meets Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy
    On the morning of March 21, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. In remarks, President Lai said that Alaska has long been an important trading partner of Taiwan, and that we have built a solid foundation for cooperation in such fields as energy, fisheries, and tourism. The president expressed hope that Taiwan and Alaska will have more frequent engagement and exchanges so that our relations can continue to grow to create prosperous development for both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome to our guests. This is Governor Dunleavy’s first visit to Taiwan, and last night, we both attended the Hsieh Nien Fan (謝年飯) banquet hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan. I am delighted to have this opportunity to meet with Governor Dunleavy today at the Presidential Office for further dialogue. Alaska has long been an important trading partner of Taiwan. Our sister-state relationship was established in 1988, and we have built a solid foundation for cooperation in such fields as energy, fisheries, and tourism. Currently, Taiwan is Alaska’s eighth largest export market and ninth largest source of imports. This goes to show just how close our trade and economic ties are and how much potential there is for further growth. As I said in my remarks at last night’s Hsieh Nien Fan banquet, Taiwan is interested in buying Alaskan natural gas. I am sure that Governor Dunleavy’s visit will help us explore even more opportunities for cooperation and continue to deepen Taiwan-United States relations. In the face of such challenges as expanding authoritarianism, climate change, and pandemics, we look forward to strengthening collaboration between Taiwan and the US. By drawing on our strengths, we can jointly build non-red supply chains to bolster our economic resilience and drive the advancement of global technology. I want to thank the US government for reiterating the importance it attaches to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and its opposition to any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion. These statements backing Taiwan help in maintaining stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the Indo-Pacific region. Once again, I thank Governor Dunleavy for traveling such a long way to Taiwan. We hope to see more frequent engagement and exchanges between Taiwan and Alaska so that our relations can continue to grow, and we can create prosperous development for both sides. Governor Dunleavy then delivered remarks, saying that their trip to visit friends in Taiwan has been fantastic, thanking President Lai for the invitation to meet, and thanking all the staff. Governor Dunleavy said that as the pandemic was raging, the world went from “before COVID” to “after COVID.” Before COVID, he said, the world relied on a number of systems that were in place for decades after World War II involving supply chains, alliances, sources of energy, trading partners, and friends. He went on to say that as we go beyond COVID, we are reestablishing and reevaluating who our friends are, where we are going to get our energy, and who our trading partners are going to be. The governor said that we are creating a new world for the next 50 years with the new administration in Washington, and this is an opportunity for us to reevaluate and reinvest with our friends for the next 50 years in each other, our futures, and our security. Governor Dunleavy stated that one thing is for certain: that Taiwan is a friend of the US and a friend of Alaska, and has been for many, many decades. He said that it is their hope in this trip and subsequent trips to establish an even tighter bond among their friends in Taiwan, the US, and Alaska. The governor also said that we have much in common in that we are members of the Pacific family, are democracies, and believe in freedom, free speech, and capitalism. He indicated that he has much optimism for the future, and that as we reestablish relationships throughout the world, energy is going to be the key and the basis for our economic development, our national security, and our friendship. Governor Dunleavy said that he believes this trip is going to lay the groundwork for a fantastic future between Taiwan, Alaska, and the US, and that with President Lai’s support as well as the support of the US administration, we can work together to build even better relationships.

    Details
    2025-03-20
    President Lai attends AmCham Taiwan 2025 Hsieh Nien Fan
    On the evening of March 20, President Lai Ching-te attended the annual Hsieh Nien Fan (謝年飯) banquet hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan (AmCham Taiwan). In remarks, President Lai pointed out that the United States is now a major source of investment in Taiwan, adding that last year US investment accounted for 11.5 percent of total foreign investment in Taiwan. The president also pointed out that the US has become Taiwan’s largest investment destination, as Taiwan’s direct and indirect investment in the US accounted for more than 40 percent of its total outbound investment last year. President Lai expressed hope that AmCham will continue to offer support in quickly resolving the issue of double taxation, further enhancing the mutually beneficial Taiwan-US economic and trade partnership. He also emphasized that one essential element for our economic prosperity is maintaining security and stability, both regionally and globally. The president expressed his belief that, so long as we coordinate our efforts, we can achieve more in our respective defense industries and build non-red supply chains, advancing peace, stability, and prosperity. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: I’m delighted to be here tonight. I want to wish everyone and their families a happy, healthy, and prosperous year ahead. For many years now, AmCham has acted as a bridge between Taiwan and the US. It not only advocates for Taiwan to various sectors in the US, but also offers advice for the development of Taiwan’s industries. So tonight, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all our friends from the American business community. The 2025 Business Climate Survey, published by AmCham this January, demonstrates the confidence foreign businesses have in the Taiwan market. We are happy to see that over 80 percent of survey respondents reported stable or increased revenue last year, and around 80 percent expressed confidence in Taiwan’s economic prospects for the coming year. Moreover, 90 percent of businesses surveyed are planning to maintain or expand their investments in Taiwan. The positive developments in Taiwan made by our American friends here tonight, their outlook for the future, and their confidence in Taiwan, are further proof of Taiwan’s ideal environment for investment. The US is now a major source of investment in Taiwan. Last year, US investment accounted for 11.5 percent of total foreign investment in Taiwan. In 2023, Entegris opened a new manufacturing facility in Kaohsiung and Micron launched a new facility in Taichung. Last year, Google further solidified Taiwan as its biggest R&D hub outside of the US by opening a new office here. AMD, Nvidia, and major cloud computing companies from the US have also been choosing Taiwan to expand their presence. Over the past several years, the US has also become Taiwan’s largest investment destination. Taiwan’s direct and indirect investment in the US accounted for more than 40 percent of our total outbound investment last year. Four years ago, TSMC’s [Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company] investment in facilities in Arizona became the biggest FDI [foreign direct investment] in a greenfield project in US history. And this month, TSMC announced it would expand that investment, breaking another record and highlighting the enduring prosperity shared by Taiwan and the US. In addition to TSMC, Taiwan’s GlobalWafers has built a 12-inch silicon wafer factory in Texas, the biggest in the US. This will be followed by many other industries. These companies are confidently expanding their global presence across the Pacific and eastward into the Americas. The US is moving to reindustrialize its manufacturing industry and consolidate high-tech leadership, as it moves to become a global AI hub. In these efforts, Taiwan is an indispensable partner for the US. While the US is a leader in chip design, Taiwan’s semiconductor manufacturing plays an irreplaceable part in the supply chain. Adapting to the changing geopolitical landscape and the coming era of smart technology, Taiwan will continue to promote its Five Trusted Industry Sectors of semiconductors, AI, military, next-gen communications, and security and surveillance. This will drive the next stage in our economic development. A great time to invest in Taiwan is now. We will continue to better connect relevant government agencies and align with international standards to foster a friendlier investment environment. And I am confident that Taiwanese and American companies can leverage their respective high-tech expertise and invest in each other, boosting growth in industrial innovation and development for both our economies. At the same time, we hope to continue deepening Taiwan-US trade relations. Last year, Taiwan was the seventh largest trading partner of the US, up one spot from the previous year, and bilateral trade grew by 24.2 percent. Taiwan is going to expand procurement from the US of industrial and agricultural products, as well as natural gas. I am very happy to welcome Governor [Mike] Dunleavy of Alaska, who has specially come all the way to Taiwan. Alaska is a source of high-quality natural gas, and its relatively short distance from Taiwan facilitates transportation. So we are very interested in buying Alaskan natural gas because it can meet our needs and ensure our energy security. We hope that AmCham will continue to offer support in quickly resolving the issue of double taxation and removing tax barriers to bilateral investment and trade, further enhancing the mutually beneficial Taiwan-US economic and trade partnership. One essential element for our economic prosperity is maintaining security and stability, both regionally and globally. So we are grateful for the joint leaders’ statement issued by [US] President [Donald] Trump and Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, in which they expressed their solid support for maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. As we face growing authoritarianism, Taiwan will continue to uphold our values of freedom and democracy and will be a responsible actor in regional and global security. Currently, Taiwan’s defense budget stands at about 2.5 percent of GDP. Going forward, the government will prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. At the same time, we will continue to reform national defense, further enhancing Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. And we will advance our cooperation with the US and other democracies in upholding regional stability and prosperity. We also welcome continued Taiwan-US cooperation in the defense sector. I believe that, so long as we coordinate our efforts, we can achieve more in our respective defense industries and build non-red supply chains, advancing peace, stability, and prosperity. In closing, I look forward to seeing even greater achievements from Taiwan-US economic and trade cooperation. Thank you. After remarks, President Lai, AmCham Chairperson Dan Silver, American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene, and Governor Dunleavy raised their glasses in recognition of the strong Taiwan-US friendship.  

    Details
    2025-04-06
    President Lai delivers remarks on US tariff policy response
    On April 6, President Lai Ching-te delivered recorded remarks regarding the impact of the 32 percent tariff that the United States government recently imposed on imports from Taiwan in the name of reciprocity. In his remarks, President Lai explained that the government will adopt five response strategies, including making every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations, adopting a support plan for affected domestic industries, adopting medium- and long-term economic development plans, forming new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements, and launching industry listening tours. The president emphasized that as we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and expressed hope that all parties, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: My fellow citizens, good evening. The US government recently announced higher tariffs on countries around the world in the name of reciprocity, including imposing a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan. This is bound to have a major impact on our nation. Various countries have already responded, and some have even adopted retaliatory measures. Tremendous changes in the global economy are expected. Taiwan is an export-led economy, and in facing future challenges there will inevitably be difficulties, so we must proceed carefully to turn danger into safety. During this time, I want to express gratitude to all sectors of society for providing valuable opinions, which the government regards highly, and will use as a reference to make policy decisions.  However, if we calmly and carefully analyze Taiwan’s trade with the US, we find that last year Taiwan’s exports to the US were valued at US$111.4 billion, accounting for 23.4 percent of total export value, with the other 75-plus percent of products sold worldwide to countries other than the US. Of products sold to the US, competitive ICT products and electronic components accounted for 65.4 percent. This shows that Taiwan’s economy does still have considerable resilience. As long as our response strategies are appropriate, and the public and private sectors join forces, we can reduce impacts. Please do not panic. To address the reciprocal tariffs by the US, Taiwan has no plans to adopt retaliatory tariffs. There will be no change in corporate investment commitments to the US, as long as they are consistent with national interests. But we must ensure the US clearly understands Taiwan’s contributions to US economic development. More importantly, we must actively seek to understand changes in the global economic situation, strengthen Taiwan-US industry cooperation, elevate the status of Taiwan industries in global supply chains, and with safeguarding the continued development of Taiwan’s economy as our goal, adopt the following five strategies to respond. Strategy one: Make every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations using the following five methods:  1. Taiwan has already formed a negotiation team led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君). The team includes members from the National Security Council, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and relevant Executive Yuan ministries and agencies, as well as academia and industry. Like the US-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement, negotiations on tariffs can start from Taiwan-US bilateral zero-tariff treatment. 2. To expand purchases from the US and thereby reduce the trade deficit, the Executive Yuan has already completed an inventory regarding large-scale procurement plans for agricultural, industrial, petroleum, and natural gas products, and the Ministry of National Defense has also proposed a military procurement list. All procurement plans will be actively pursued. 3. Expand investments in the US. Taiwan’s cumulative investment in the US already exceeds US$100 billion, creating approximately 400,000 jobs. In the future, in addition to increased investment in the US by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, other industries such as electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, and natural gas can all increase their US investments, deepening Taiwan-US industry cooperation. Taiwan’s government has helped form a “Taiwan investment in the US” team, and hopes that the US will reciprocate by forming a “US investment in Taiwan” team to bring about closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, jointly creating a future economic golden age.  4. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are an indicator by which the US assesses whether a trading partner is trading fairly with the US. Therefore, we will proactively resolve longstanding non-tariff barriers so that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. 5. We must resolve two issues that have been matters of longstanding concern to the US. One regards high-tech export controls, and the other regards illegal transshipment of dumped goods, otherwise referred to as “origin washing.” Strategy two: We must adopt a plan for supporting our industries. For industries that will be affected by the tariffs, and especially traditional industries as well as micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises, we will provide timely and needed support and assistance. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and his administrative team recently announced a package of 20 specific measures designed to address nine areas. Moving forward, the support we provide to different industries will depend on how they are affected by the tariffs, will take into account the particular features of each industry, and will help each industry innovate, upgrade, and transform. Strategy three: We must adopt medium- and long-term economic development plans. At this point in time, our government must simultaneously adopt new strategies for economic and industrial development. This is also the fundamental path to solutions for future economic challenges. The government will proactively cooperate with friends and allies, develop a diverse range of markets, and achieve closer integration of entities in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of industrial supply chains. This course of action will make Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem more complete, and will help Taiwanese industries upgrade and transform. We must also make good use of the competitive advantages we possess in such areas as semiconductor manufacturing, integrated chip design, ICT, and smart manufacturing to build Taiwan into an AI island, and promote relevant applications for food, clothing, housing, and transportation, as well as military, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, and the medical and health and wellness industries as we advance toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more prosperous new Taiwan. Strategy four: “Taiwan plus one,” i.e., new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements: While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. This has been our national economic development strategy, and the most important aspect is maintaining a solid base here in Taiwan. We absolutely must maintain a solid footing, and cannot allow the present strife to cause us to waver. Therefore, our government will incentivize investments, carry out deregulation, and continue to improve Taiwan’s investment climate by actively resolving problems involving access to water, electricity, land, human resources, and professional talent. This will enable corporations to stay in Taiwan and continue investing here. In addition, we must also help the overseas manufacturing facilities of offshore Taiwanese businesses to make necessary adjustments to support our “Taiwan plus one” policy, in that our national economic development strategy will be adjusted as follows: to stay firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence, strengthening US ties, and marketing worldwide. We intend to make use of the new state of supply chains to strengthen cooperation between Taiwanese and US industries, and gain further access to US markets. Strategy five: Launch industry listening tours: All industrial firms, regardless of sector or size, will be affected to some degree once the US reciprocal tariffs go into effect. The administrative teams led by myself and Premier Cho will hear out industry concerns so that we can quickly resolve problems and make sure policies meet actual needs. My fellow citizens, over the past half-century and more, Taiwan has been through two energy crises, the Asian financial crisis, the global financial crisis, and pandemics. We have been able to not only withstand one test after another, but even turn crises into opportunities. The Taiwanese economy has emerged from these crises stronger and more resilient than ever. As we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and I hope that all parties in the legislature, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. Let us join together and give it our all. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi meets Malaysia’s king

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Kuala Lumpur Wednesday with Malaysian King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar.

    Xi arrived here Tuesday for a state visit, the second leg of his three-nation Southeast Asia tour.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Approves $1.45 Billion Final Tranche for Philippines’ Malolos-Clark Railway Project

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    ADB has approved $1.45 billion as the second and final tranche of its multitranche financing facility for the Malolos–Clark Railway Project, a core element of the government’s flagship project to provide a safe, affordable, reliable, and environment-friendly railway connecting northern and southern Luzon provinces to Metro Manila.

    MIL OSI Economics –