Asia and the Pacific face a daunting infrastructure challenge, requiring sustained investment to enhance connectivity, safety, and resilience. While road networks dominate spending, underinvestment in maintenance and limited private-sector involvement threaten long-term sustainability.
Asia and the Pacific will require about $43 trillion from 2020 to 2035 to develop, maintain, repair, and climate-proof its transport infrastructure, according to the Asian Transport Observatory. This represents about 2% of the region’s GDP, averaging roughly $2.7 trillion annually.
Infrastructure investment requirements have tripled, increasing from roughly $750 billion annually between 2000 and 2020 to $2.7 trillion.
Failing to secure the needed resources risks inadequate infrastructure development, leading to deterioration, costly repairs, and transport disruptions over time.
Traffic congestion currently represents about 2-4% of GDP in Asia’s major cities. Road traffic fatalities and severe injuries cost $1.5 trillion in 2021, factoring in the loss of lives, assets, and workforce productivity.
The health consequences of PM2.5 air pollution also contributed to a further loss of at least $4 trillion in 2019. Climate-related challenges may also bring significant expenses, with potential damages to Asia’s transport infrastructure approaching $54 billion.
Moreover, delays and interruptions due to weakened transport infrastructure could lead to logistical losses estimated annually at $43 billion in 2023. It’s estimated that inadequate transport infrastructure directly threatens about 7% of GDP.
Tackling these challenges requires a forward-thinking approach emphasizing infrastructure maintenance, capacity enhancement, safety enforcement, and disaster preparedness to mitigate these considerable costs.
The infrastructure investment needs across the region are vast and varied. The largest share of the investment needs lies within East Asia (58%) and South Asia (17%) sub-regions, representing 73% of the population.
Our projections suggest that investment in transport infrastructure within high-income economies will stagnate by 2035, influenced by an aging population, stabilized travel demand, and well-established infrastructure networks.
On the other hand, low- and middle-income economies are expected to see a sharp rise in investment requirements, driven by inadequate access to transport infrastructure and increasing demand for passenger and freight transport.
Upper-middle-income economies are set to spearhead transport infrastructure investments, maintaining a significant share of 67% of total investment from 2000 to 2020, followed by 65% from 2020 to 2035.
About 74% of total investment needs over the next decade will be concentrated in East and South Asia, propelled by the ongoing rapid growth of transport demand in India and the People’s Republic of China.
Road transport will continue to secure bulk investments from 2020 to 2035, accounting for 63% of total investments (approximately 1.3% of GDP). This is required to bridge the infrastructure gap and improve access and connectivity.
The remaining investment needs are as follows: 17% for railways, including high-speed rail (around 0.4% of GDP), 11% for raid urban transit (about 0.2% of GDP), 4% for ports (0.1% of GDP), and 5% for airports (0.1% of GDP).
Urban rail investment will equal that of heavy rail infrastructure for the first time. Investment in metro systems is expected to increase from 7% of total investments between 2000 and 2020 to 10% from 2020 to 2035. Other than that, we don’t see a significant shift in the pattern of infrastructure spending.
Maintenance is crucial for transport infrastructure, guaranteeing assets’ durability, safety, and effectiveness. Studies show that every dollar invested in maintenance saves $4-$5 later required for reconstruction.
However, there’s a worrying trend of underinvestment in maintenance. This underinvestment will likely persist. On average, maintenance costs for transport infrastructure are expected to represent approximately 24% of total investment expenses from 2020 to 2035.
Nonetheless, maintenance expenditures differ across various modes and countries. New construction projects often receive significant media and political attention, but maintenance initiatives, which are vital for the long-term viability of transport infrastructure, are usually overlooked and go underfunded.
Regrettably, the issue of insufficient maintenance funding is a persistent challenge in Asia.
With nearly 1.8 billion people lacking access to transport infrastructure in Asia, countries are rapidly building infrastructure. But even with a $43 trillion investment by 2035, the infrastructure gap with the global North will continue to exist.
By 2035, Asia’s average transport infrastructure per capita is projected to still be 70% lower than current levels in wealthier countries, as measured by OECD country levels. However, the silver lining is that we will bridge the gap in specific modes at a lower income level.
For example, the average availability of urban rapid transit per capita in Asia and the Pacific is expected to double, rising from 6 kilometers in 2020 to 12 kilometers per million people by 2035. OECD countries had similar access back in 2013, having a GDP per capita nearly four times higher.
Maintaining a sustained annual investment rate of 2.3% of GDP is a challenge in itself. Identifying who will provide that investment is another complex question. While infrastructure development offers clear socio-economic benefits, investments in this area have declined as a percentage of GDP.
This shift raises concerns, especially given the limited involvement of private funding in the region’s infrastructure development. Historically, governments have been the leading financiers.
However, the aftermath of COVID-19 has strained public finances and increased debt burdens. Public-private partnerships show potential but have not expanded enough to meet the growing transport infrastructure demands.
There is an urgent need for a significant increase in private investment to bridge this gap. Attracting such capital depends on the government’s ability to create a more favorable regulatory and planning environment.
Moreover, there is considerable potential for optimizing public infrastructure investments. Governments should explore alternative funding methods, such as raising user fees, leveraging land value, and adopting innovative financing techniques.
Strategic investments, regulatory reforms, and innovative funding solutions are essential to ensuring Asia’s transport infrastructure meets future demands.
TheAsian Transport Observatorywas developed by the Asian Development Bank to strengthen the knowledge base on transport in Asia and the Pacific, and to support better informed investments and policies in the sector.
Headline: Thales reports its 2024 full-year results
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Order intake: €25.3 billion, up 9% (+6% on an organic basis1)
Sales: €20.6 billion, up 11.7% (+8.3% on an organic basis)
Adjusted EBIT2: €2,419 million, up 13.4% (+5.7% on an organic basis)
Adjusted net income, Group share2: €1,900 million, up 7%
Consolidated net income, Group share: €1,420 million, up sharply by 39%
Free operating cash flow from continuing operations2,3: €2,142 million, up 9%
Free operating cash flow2: €2,027 million, stable against 2023
Dividend4of €3.70 per share, representing 40% of Adjusted net income, Group share
Non-financial performance: steady progress towards medium to long-term targets
2025 objectives:
Book-to-bill5above 1
Organic sales growth of between +5% and +6%, corresponding to sales between €21.7 billion and €21.9 billion
Adjusted EBIT margin between 12.2% and 12.4%
Thales’s Board of Directors (Euronext Paris: HO) met on March 3, 2025 to review the 2024 financial statements6.
“2024 was once again a year of strong profitable growth for Thales. Thales, a world leader in advanced technologies in Defence, Aerospace, Cybersecurity and Digital, maintained excellent sales momentum throughout the year, achieving a record order intake of more than €25 billion. The record order book provides unprecedented visibility for all our activities. Sales exceeded the €20 billion mark with organic growth of 8.3%, above expectations. Defence activities, underpinned by an ongoing increase in the Group’s production capacity, the technological excellence of our products and the commitment from all our colleagues, contributed in particular to this performance. Thales also demonstrated once again its ability to generate profitable growth, with an increase in EBIT in absolute terms and as a percentage, reflecting the strength of its operating leverage. Thanks to its unique business model based on world-class products, systems and services, Thales generated free operating cash flow of more than €2 billion. Non-financial performance was also remarkable in 2024. The validity of our CSR strategy was acknowledged as Thales joined the CAC 40 ESG index in 2024. This historic performance is the result of the unfailing commitment of our 83,000 employees, and I would like to thank them sincerely for their dedication to our clients. We are starting 2025 with confidence and determination and a positive outlook for the vast majority of our activities. Thales presented its new strategic roadmap in November 2024. By drawing on its unique leadership positions serving growing markets and its ability to innovate and anticipate technological breakthroughs, the Group affirms its ambition to deliver accelerated, profitable and sustainable growth over the coming years, starting in 2025.” Patrice Caine, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
Key figures
Order intake for the 2024 financial year increased by 9% compared with 2023 at €25,289 million and by +6% on an organic basis (i.e. at constant scope and exchange rates). Commercial performance was once again supported by strong demand in the Defence segment and by continued sustained momentum in the Aerospace segment. As at 31 December 2024, the consolidated order book amounted to nearly €51 billion, a record level, up by nearly €5.4 billion compared with the end of 2023.
Sales totaled €20,577 million, up 11.7% from 2023 (+8.3% in organic growth). This robust growth reflects in particular the solid performance of the Defence business throughout the year.
Adjusted EBIT7 stood at €2,419 million in 2024 (11.8% of sales), compared with €2,132 million (11.6% of sales) in 2023, an increase of 13.4% (+5.7% organic change).
At €1,900 million, Adjusted net income,Group share7 was up +7% compared to 2023.
Consolidated net income, Group share, stood at €1,420 million, up sharply by +39% from 2023. This increase can be explained notably by the recognition in 2023 of a non-current and non-recurring expense linked to the implementation of insurance coverage for the Group’s commitments under the Thales UK Pension Scheme. These commitments were transferred to Rothesay at the end of 2023.
Free operating cash flow from continuing operations7,9 amounted to €2,142 million, compared with €1,968 million in 2023. Including the contribution of discontinued operations, free operating cash flow7 amounted to €2,027 million, compared with €2,026 million in 2023. Calculated on the basis of the scope of continuing operations, the cash conversion ratio of Adjusted net income, Group share, into operating free cash flow was 114%. This once again exceptional performance, which saw the cash conversion ratio exceed 100% for the fifth consecutive year, reflects the excellent momentum of new orders, the phasing effects on cash inflows related to contracts’ execution and the continued Group’s mobilization of its CA$H! plan aimed at optimizing this conversion ratio.
In this context, the Board of Directors decided to propose the payment of a dividend of €3.70 per share, corresponding to a payout ratio of 40% of the Adjusted net income, Group share. An interim dividend of €0.85 per share was paid on December 5, 2024. The balance of €2.85 will be paid on May 22, 2025.
Order intake
Order intake for the 2024 financial year totaled €25,289 million, up 9% from 2023 in total change and up +6% at constant scope and exchange rates11. For the fourth consecutive year, the order intake was more than 20% higher than sales (book-to-bill). Thebook-to-bill ratio was 1.23, flat against 2023, and 1.28 excluding the Cyber & Digital business, where the order intake is structurally very close to sales.
In 2024, Thales signed 35 large orders with a unit value of over €100 million, representing a total of €8,674 million:
Four large orders booked in Q1 2024:
The entry into force of the third phase of the order placed by Indonesia in 2022 for the purchase of 42 Rafale aircraft (18 aircraft and support services);
Phased contract with the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) to develop the next generation of sonars to equip French nuclear-powered ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN);
Order of an aerial surveillance system for a military customer in the Middle East;
Second tranche of the contract signed in 2023 between France and Italy for the production of 400 ASTER B1NT ground-to-air missiles.
Eight large orders booked in Q2 2024:
Order for a next generation cloud native “FLYTEDGE” InFlight Entertainment System for a major worldwide airline;
Order by SKY Perfect JSAT to Thales Alenia Space of JSAT-31, a new generation of satellite reconfigurable in orbit using Space INSPIRE technology;
Exomars 2028, a contract signed between industrial prime contractor Thales Alenia Space and the European Space Agency (ESA) to relaunch the European space mission dedicated to the exploration of the Red Planet;
Order of two new F126 frigates by the German Navy. This additional contract brings the number of F126 frigates acquired by the German Navy to six in the past four years;
Order by the Dutch Ministry of Defence of seven additional Ground Master 200 multi-mission compact radars;
Service contract for the maintenance of the Royal Australian Navy fleet;
Order by an Asian customer of latest-generation Ground Master 400 Alpha long-range air surveillance radars;
Order by France’s Joint Munitions Command (SiMu) of tens of thousands of 120mm rifled ammunition.
Seven major orders recorded in Q3 2024:
Notification by the DGA of the second tranche of the development of the future RBE2 XG radar for the Rafale F5;
Order for the supply of anti-submarine warfare systems for the first phase of the construction of six HUNTER-class frigates for the Royal Australian Navy;
Order for the renovation of an air traffic management system;
Order from the UK Ministry of Defence for the supply of Lightweight Multi-role Missiles (LMM) to strengthen Ukraine’s air defence capabilities;
Order of LMM for the British armed forces;
Order for the supply of Ground Fire multifunction radar and engagement modules following France’s acquisition of seven SAMP/T NG air defence systems;
Order for the supply of communications, vetronics, navigation and optronics equipment for vehicles in the French Army’s SCORPION program.
Sixteen large orders booked in Q4 2024:
Order for the supply of a satellite for the European Space Agency’s EnVision scientific mission to understand the planet Venus;
Contract amendment signed with OHB System for the payload of the third satellite of the European CO2M mission focused on CO2 emissions generated by human activity;
Amendment to the contract with the European Space Agency for the development of the ESPRIT communications and refueling module for the future lunar space station, Gateway;
Order for the development of the world’s first quantum key distribution (QKD) system from geostationary orbit, in collaboration with Hispasat;
Contract with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre to develop the Emirates Airlock Module on board the future lunar space station Gateway;
Entry into force of the contract for the supply of 12 Rafale to Serbia;
Order from Naval Group for the supply of equipment for the submarine delivery contract in the Netherlands;
Order under the AJISS contract to provide In-Service Support to Royal Canadian Navy ships;
Order for the development and production of 430 new-generation MICA-NG interception, combat and self-defence missile seekers;
Order from the UK Ministry of Defence for the development and preparation of large-scale production of STARStreak HVMs (High Velocity Missiles) for the armed forces;
Order from the French Air Navigation Services Directorate (DSNA) aimed at improving the 4-Flight air traffic management system;
Amendment to the CONTACT contract with the DGA providing the armed forces with a range of software-defined radios designed for collaborative combat;
Order from the UK Ministry of Defence to ensure the permanence and maneuverability of the Royal Navy’s operational communications;
Order from the DGA as part of the SYRACUSE IV program to equip the French army’s SCORPION vehicles with Thales’ secure satellite communications solution;
Order from the DGA for the design, delivery and maintenance of a resilient communication system;
Order from the DGA to produce an encryption key management and distribution system and key injector for the Ministry of the Armed Forces.
With a total amount of €16,615 million, order intake with a unit value of less than €100 million continued to record favorable momentum.
Geographically12, order intake in mature markets amounted to €19,010 million, very close to that recorded in 2023, which though included the £1.8 billion MSET contract in the United Kingdom. Sales momentum elsewhere was also solid, particularly in the rest of Europe (up by 16% on an organic basis) and in Australia and New Zealand (up by 13% on an organic basis). Order intake in emerging markets was up sharply in 2024, amounting to €6,279 million (+39% at constant scope and exchange rates) thanks to continued strong momentum in the Near and Middle East (with an organic increase of 80%).
Order intake in the Aerospace segment totaled €6,434 million compared to €5,606 million in 2023 (+14% at constant scope and exchange rates). This solid growth reflects several trends.
The different segments of the Avionics market continued to record sustained demand in 2024;
The Space business posted sustained growth in order intake, including five orders with a unit value of more than €100 million recorded in the fourth quarter, four of which in OEN (Observation, Exploration & Science and Navigation) activities.
At December 31, 2024, the segment’s order book stood at €10.5 billion, up 13% from 2023.
At €14,723 million compared to €13,944 million in 2023, order intake in the Defence segment set a new record (+5% at constant scope and exchange rates). The book-to-bill ratio was 1.34, above 1.2 for the sixth consecutive year. This high level is explained by continued strong demand in all activities, with twenty-seven contracts with a unit value of more than €100 million recorded in 2024. The segment’s order book reached a new record at €39.2 billion (up 12%), corresponding to 3.6 years of sales, offering strong visibility for the years ahead.
At 4,032 million, order intake in the Cyber & Digital segment was structurally very close to sales as most business lines in this segment operate on short sales cycles. The order book is therefore not significant.
Sales
Note: full-year 2023 figures have been restated to reflect the transfer of cyber civil activities from the Defence segment to the Cyber & Digital segment.
Sales for the 2024 financial year totaled €20,577 million, compared to €18,428 million in 2023, up 11.7% in total change and 8.3% in organic terms (at constant scope and exchange rates14), driven in particular by the robust performance of the Defence segment.
Geographically15, sales recorded solid growth in both mature markets (+7.9% in organic terms) and emerging markets (+9.6% in organic terms), driven by double-digit growth in Asia.
Sales in the Aerospace segment totaled €5,471 million, up 4.8% from 2023 (+2.9% at constant scope and exchange rates). Momentum in this segment reflects contrasting trends:
The Avionics business posted mid-single digit organic growth in 2024, notably driven by strong momentum in both original equipment activities and aftermarket services, with a return to pre-Covid levels in air traffic. However, as expected, the fourth quarter was impacted by delays in aircraft deliveries to airlines, which postponed in-flight entertainment (IFE) sales;
As expected, sales were almost flat in the Space business. The telecommunications segment continued to be impacted by structurally lower demand in the geostationary satellite market. Conversely, trends remain positive for OEN activities.
Sales in the Defence segment totaled €10,969 million, up 13.9% from 2023 (+13.3% at constant scope and exchange rates). This strong growth came against a backdrop of steady growth in the Group’s production capacity, enabling it to meet high demand in all product lines. Growth was notably driven by land and air systems, such as tactical vehicles and systems or surface radars. The fourth quarter of 2024 also benefited from favorable cut-off effects.
At €4,024 million, sales in the Cyber & Digital segment increased by 1.4% at constant scope and exchange rates (and +14.8% in total change including the positive scope effect of the acquisitions of Imperva and Tesserent). This moderate organic sales growth reflects different trends depending on the activities:
Strong momentum continued for cyber businesses, including a strong performance from Imperva;
Against a high comparison basis in 2023, payment services sales were impacted by destocking by our customers in North America;
Lastly, the digitalization of secure connectivity solutions maintained its strong growth. Sales generated in fully digital connectivity solutions (including eSIMs and on-demand connectivity platforms) recorded double-digit organic growth and accounted for more than half of sales of this secure connectivity solutions business in 2024.
Results
For 2024, the Group posted Adjusted EBIT16 of €2,419 million, or 11.8% of sales, compared to €2,132 million (11.6% of sales) in 2023.
The Aerospace segment recorded Adjusted EBIT of €391 million (7.2% of sales), compared with €369 million (7.1% of sales) in 2023. The segment’s Adjusted EBIT margin is driven by the Avionics business, which posted a double-digit margin and improving, including the contribution of Cobham AeroComms. However, Space activities weighed on the segment’s margin, recording as expected a negative Adjusted EBIT margin in 2024 resulting from several factors: an expected increase in R&D spending, restructuring costs linked to the adaptation plan announced in March 2024 and the impact of inflation not reflected on past contracts.
Adjusted EBIT for the Defence segment amounted to €1,432 million, compared with €1,270 million in 2023 (an increase of +13.0% at constant scope and exchange rates). The margin for this segment was stable at 13.1%, compared to 13.2% in 2023.
At €585 million (14.5% of sales), Adjusted EBIT in the Cyber & Digital segment recorded solid growth in both value and margin. The improvement in profitability was notably due to the successful integration of Imperva and the robust margin on payment services and secure connectivity solutions for mobile networks in highly competitive markets.
Naval Group’s contribution to the Group’s Adjusted EBIT amounted to €93 million in 2024, compared with €91 million in 2023.
At -€166 million, compared with €2 million in 2023, net financial interest increased sharply, as expected. This increase was mainly linked to the substantial rise in debt following the acquisitions made in 2023. Other adjusted financial income16 stood at €35 million in 2024 versus -€37 million in 2023, reflecting the exceptional positive impact of dividends on non-consolidated affiliates and foreign exchange gains. The adjusted financial expense on pensions and other long-term employee benefits16 improved significantly (-€49 million compared with -€76 million in 2023), reflecting the removal of the interest expense following the transfer of UK pension obligations in December 2023.
At €21 million, compared with €105 million in 2023, the Adjusted net income, Group share, from discontinued operations16 was in line with trends in the Transport business, which was sold on May 31, 2024.
As a result, Adjusted net income, Group share16 was €1,900 million, compared to €1,768 million in 2023, after an adjusted income tax charge16 of -€427 million, compared to -€370 million in 2023. At 20.4% in 2024 compared to 20.1% in 2023, the effective tax rate was stable.
The Adjusted net income, Group share, per share16 amounted to €9.24, up 9% from 2023 (€8.48).
Consolidated net income, Group share, stood at €1,420 million, up 39% from 2023. This increase can be explained notably by the recognition in 2023 of a non-current and non-recurring expense linked to the implementation of insurance coverage for the Group’s commitments under the Thales UK Pension Scheme.
Financial position at December 31, 2024
Free operating cash flow17 amounted to €2,027 million compared to €2,026 million in 2023. It included a contribution of €2,142 million from continuing operations and -€116 million from discontinued operations. For continuing operations, the cash conversion ratio of Adjusted net income, Group share, into free operating cash flow was 114%.
The net balance of acquisitions and disposals of subsidiaries and affiliates amounted to €359 million. Under its acquisition strategy, the Group completed two major operations in 2024:
The acquisition (on April 2, 2024) of Cobham Aerospace Communications, a leading supplier of cutting-edge technologies enabling flexible, integrated and more-autonomous avionics systems, based primarily in the United States and generating sales of approximately $200 million in 2023 (see press releases dated July 12, 2023 and April 2, 2024);
The sale (on 31 May 2024) to Hitachi Rail of the Transport business, a global leader in rail signaling and train control systems, telecommunications and supervision systems, and fare collection solutions (see press releases dated August 4, 2021 and May 31, 2024). This business generated sales of €1,822 million in 2023.
As part of the share buyback program covering a maximum of 3.5% of the capital announced in March 2022 and completed in March 2024, 1,245,757 shares were repurchased during 2024, representing 0.6% of the share capital, for €176 million. The Group repurchased a total of 7,469,396 shares under this program, 3.5% of the share capital.
At December 31, 2024, net debt amounted to €3,044 million compared with €4,190 million at December 31, 2023. This decrease reflects the impact of free operating cash flow generation, acquisitions and disposals for -€359 million (€3,464 million in 2023), the payment of €708 million in dividends (€634 million in 2023), new lease liabilities for €143 million (€166 million in 2023) and the share buyback program.
Equity, Group share amounted to €7,515 million, compared with €6,830 million at December 31, 2023. This increase reflects the positive contribution of consolidated net income, Group share (€1,420 million) less the dividend payout (-€708 million) and share buybacks (-€176 million).
Non-financial performance
In line with its corporate purpose of “Building a future we can all trust”, Thales has set itself the ambition in terms of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): to contribute to a safer, greener and more inclusive world. First, the Group will seek to maximize the contribution of its portfolio of solutions to the planet and society. Secondly, Thales has set itself ambitious targets on three main priorities:
The fight against global warming;
Strengthening gender diversity at all levels;
The implementation of the best standards in terms of ethics and compliance.
In terms of the fight against global warming, scope 1 & 2 CO2 emissions fell by 56.8% in 2024 compared to 2018 and scope 3 emissions fell by 24.7% compared to 2018. The Group has thus achieved its 2030 targets ahead of schedule for the second consecutive year. The absolute value reduction targets for carbon footprint remain relevant for 2030 given the Group’s growth prospects. To raise employee awareness to climate change and its impacts on society and on the Group, a voluntary training named “Thales Climate Passport” was deployed in 2024 with the aim of training 50% of managers. Over 67.4% of managers, representing around 35,000 employees, completed this training course in 2024, demonstrating the great success of this training.
With regard to strengthening diversity, Thales has set itself an ambitious target for 2026 to have 75% of management committees with at least 4 women. Thus, at the end of 2024, 61.5% of the Group’s management committees had at least 4 women, compared to 52.6% at the end of 2023. The highest levels of responsibility comprised 21.1% women at the end of 2024[1]; a performance in line with the Group’s trajectory to reach the set goal of 22.5% by 2026 (compared to 20.4% at the end of 2023 and 16.6% at the end of 2018).
In the area of ethics and compliance, 100% of employees concerned by the 2024 anti-corruption training campaign have been trained, demonstrating the Group’s continuous commitment to train all employees potentially exposed to risk situations. In 2024, the ISO 37001 certification “Anti-bribery management systems” was renewed for 3 years and extended to Germany, Australia, and New Zealand after Canada and the United States in 2023, and the United Kingdom and the Netherlands in 2022. Thus, in 2024, the revenue generated by certified entities represents 64% of the Group’s revenue (vs. 58% in 2023).
[1] Percentage of women in the total workforce: 27.4%.
Proposed dividend
The Board of Directors decided to propose to the shareholders, who will convene at the Annual General Meeting on May 16, 2025, the payment of a dividend of €3.70 per share. This corresponds to a payout ratio of 40% of the Adjusted net income, Group share, per share.
If approved, the ex-dividend date will be May 20, 2025, and the payment date will be May 22 2025. This dividend will be paid fully in cash and will amount to €2.85 per share, after deducting the interim dividend of €0.85 per share paid in December 2024.
Outlook
Thales is embarking on 2025 with confidence, bolstered by good visibility in the vast majority of its activities.
In 2025, the Avionics business will be driven by both the original equipment and aftermarket services activities, the continued growth of the Cobham AeroComms business, and the gradual recovery of the IFE business. In the Space business, the outlook remains positive, particularly in the Observation, Exploration & Science, Navigation and military telecommunications activities. However, the structural weakness of demand in the geostationary satellite market will dampen the growth of this activity. Thales will continue to implement its cost adaptation plan, with the objective of an Adjusted EBIT margin of 7%+ in the Space business in 2028.
The Defence segment, which enjoys a record order book, will be further supported by strong demand in 2025, against a backdrop of increasing military spending, particularly in the geographical areas where the Group operates. With the increase in its production capacity over the past several years and a portfolio of premium solutions incorporating differentiating leading technologies, Thales is ideally positioned to meet its customers’ needs.
Lastly, the Cyber and Digital segment will benefit from positive momentum in 2025, supported by Thales’ unique positioning and leadership. The continued development of Imperva will strengthen the differentiating value proposition in cybersecurity activities in order to take advantage of the buoyant environment. The payment services business is also expected to gradually return to growth.
The Group expects net investment expenses to slightly exceed €700 million in 2025 (after €617 million in 2024) to meet the need to increase production capacity, particularly in the Defence business.
As a result, Thales sets the following targets for 2025:
A book-to-bill ratio above 1;
Organic sales growth of between +5% and +6%, corresponding to sales in the range of €21.7 billion to €21.9 billion;
An Adjusted EBIT18 margin between 12.2% and 12.4%, up 40 to 60 basis points from 2024.
The Group also expects to maintain a high cash conversion ratio of between 95% and 100% in 2025.
Note: assuming no new major disruptions of macroeconomic and geopolitical context; including tariff increase.
Impact of new tax measures in France
Following the adoption of the 2025 budget, which introduces various tax changes, the impacts for the Thales Group are as follows:
An additional tax expense of ~€80 million related to the temporary additional corporate tax charge, giving rise to an additional tax of 41.2% in 2025, resulting in an overall tax rate of 36.13% (instead of the current rate of 25.83%);
~€8 million in taxes payable on share cancellations made in October 2024 as part of the share buyback program.
The temporary additional contribution to corporate tax for Naval Group could have a negative impact of around €8 million on Thales’ Adjusted EBIT in 2025.
These different impacts will represent an equivalent cash outflow in 2025.
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This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. Although Thales believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, actual results may differ significantly from the forward-looking statements due to various risks and uncertainties, as described in the Company’s Universal Registration Document, which has been filed with the French financial markets authority (Autorité des marchés financiers – AMF).
1 In this press release, “organic” means “at constant scope and exchange rates”. See note on methodology on page 18 and calculation on page 23.
2 Non-GAAP financial indicators, see definitions in the appendices, page 18. The title “EBIT” has been amended to “Adjusted EBIT”, in accordance with ESMA’s recommendation.The definition remains unchanged.
3 Operating free cash flow from continuing operations, excluding the Transport activity sold on May 31, 2024.
4 Proposed to the Annual General Meeting on May 16, 2025.
5 Ratio of order intake to sales.
6 As at the date of this press release, the verification process on the sustainability information is ongoing. With the exception of the possible impact of the conclusions of this process, the audit procedures have been carried out. The audit report will be issued following the Board of Directors’ meeting on April 2, after the finalization of the procedures related to sustainability information.
7 Non-GAAP financial indicators, see definitions in the appendices, page 18.
8 Proposed to the Annual General Meeting on May 16, 2025.
9 Free operating cash flow from continuing operations, excluding the Transport activity sold on May 31, 2024.
10 Mature markets: Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand; emerging markets: all other countries. See table on page 22.
11 Taking into account a currency effect of €49 million and a net scope effect of €625 million.
12 See table on page 22.
13 Mature markets: Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand; emerging markets: all other countries. See table on page 22.
14 The calculation of the organic change in sales is shown on page 23.
15 See table on page 22.
16 Non-GAAP financial indicator, see definition in the appendices, page 18 and calculation, pages 20 and 21.
17 Non-GAAP financial indicator, see definition in the appendices, page 18.
18 The title “EBIT” has been amended to “Adjusted EBIT”, in accordance with ESMA’s recommendation.The definition remains unchanged.
Seniors and Quebecers Report the Greatest Fraud Concerns – Equifax Canada Market Pulse Fraud Trends and Consumer Survey Report –
TORONTO, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Concerns about fraud are escalating among Canadians, with a new Equifax Canada survey* conducted ahead of Fraud Prevention Month revealing that 89 per cent of those surveyed believe companies must do more to protect personal data. Seniors and Quebec residents are particularly worried, demanding stronger fraud prevention measures and broader fraud education.
Key findings of the survey:
More than half (55 per cent) of respondents believe identity thieves will always be one step ahead, with 51 per cent unsure of how to respond to fraud.
Seniors aged 65+ feel most at risk, with 96 per cent agreeing that companies must improve fraud protections, compared to 75 per cent of those aged 18-24.
Quebec (94 per cent) residents demanded the most action from companies on fraud prevention, while Alberta (86 per cent) was the lowest.
64 per cent of respondents recognize that financial fraud fuels serious crimes like human trafficking and illegal weapons trade.
58 per cent of respondents struggle to keep up with the latest scams, leaving many feeling vulnerable.
48 per cent of respondents personally know someone who has been a victim of identity theft.
“Fraud prevention is a major concern for many Canadians. Research shows that every dollar lost to a fraudster costs individuals and banks significantly more money. Companies must act now to strengthen fraud protection,”said Carl Davies, Head of Fraud & Identity at Equifax Canada.“Canadians, especially older adults, are demanding better safeguards to prevent financial crimes and identity theft.”
The Auto Industry: A Hotspot for Fraud Auto fraud is a major concern with rates escalating in most provinces, particularly Ontario. According to recent Equifax Canada data, auto application fraud rate in Q4 2024 reached 0.26 per cent, up by 2 bps from Q3 2024 and up 9 bps when compared to 24 months ago. Falsified documents and inflated income are key drivers of first-party fraud in this sector, making up close to 80 per cent of all fraudulent applications. Consumers who are new-to-credit and new-to-Canada had significantly higher auto fraud rates in 2024 than other consumers — more than double the fraud rate that we see from consumers with more established credit files. Auto application fraud rates for those New to Canada/New to Credit in 2024 was 0.51 per cent compared to existing consumers at 0.22 per cent.
Mortgage Fraud is Down but Falsified Financial Documents Remain a Challenge Equifax Canada is reporting that the Canadian mortgage market continues to slowly rebound from its lows in 2023, demonstrating growth in Q4 2024 with increased new mortgage accounts. Mortgage fraud rates have decreased significantly year-over-year, from 0.46 per cent in Q4 2023 to 0.19 per cent in Q4 2024. Despite this positive trend, falsified financial documents, such as bank statements and down payment information, remain a significant component of mortgage fraud at over 90 per cent. “This decline in fraud rates might be temporary. As interest rates gradually decrease, a potential surge in first-time buyers in 2025 could lead to increased fraudulent activity in mortgage credit applications. Consumers may misrepresent their financial information in an attempt to secure the best possible rates,” Davies warns.
A Call for Stronger Corporate and Government Action Canadian survey respondents believe financial institutions, businesses, and the government all have a role to play in strengthening fraud prevention measures:
88 per cent of respondents believe that both the public and private sectors must work together to combat financial crime
84 per cent believe the government must improve public fraud education, with 91 per cent of seniors (65+) strongly agreeing
77 per cent recognize the need to take personal steps to safeguard their data, but many feel unprepared
61 per cent say banks should implement stronger security protocols
59 per cent believe companies should leverage more sophisticated fraud detection tools
Equifax Canada urges Canadians to take active steps in protecting their identities by regularly reviewing their credit reports for unusual activity, enabling multi-factor authentication on sensitive accounts, avoiding public WiFi for financial transactions, educating themselves on new fraud schemes, and consider investing in fraud protection services such as those offered by Equifax Canada.
“As fraud tactics evolve, Canadians must remain vigilant,” added Davies. “By combining stronger corporate policies, government oversight, and personal diligence, we can make strides in fraud prevention.”
* Equifax surveyed 1,590 Canadians ages 18-65, Feb. 7-9. A probability sample of the same size would yield a margin of error of +/- 2.5 per cent, 19 times out of 20.
About Equifax At Equifax (NYSE: EFX), we believe knowledge drives progress. As a global data, analytics, and technology company, we play an essential role in the global economy by helping financial institutions, companies, employers, and government agencies make critical decisions with greater confidence. Our unique blend of differentiated data, analytics, and cloud technology drives insights to power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in Atlanta and supported by nearly 15,000 employees worldwide, Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region. For more information, visit Equifax.ca.
BEIJING, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 36Kr Holdings Inc. (“36Kr” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: KRKR), a prominent brand and a pioneering platform dedicated to serving New Economy participants in China, today announced that it will report its second half and fiscal year 2024 unaudited financial results, on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, before the open of U.S. markets.
The Company’s management will host an earnings conference call at 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time on March 11, 2025 (8:00 p.m. Beijing/Hong Kong Time on March 11, 2025).
For participants who wish to join the call by phone, please access the link provided below to complete the pre-registration and dial in 5 minutes prior to the scheduled call start time. Upon registration, each participant will receive dial-in details to join the conference call.
Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.36kr.com.
A replay of the conference call will be available for one week from the date of the conference, by dialing the following telephone numbers:
United States:
+1-855-883-1031
International:
+61-7-3107-6325
Hong Kong, China:
800-930-639
Mainland China:
400-120-9216
Replay PIN:
10045861
About 36Kr Holdings Inc.
36Kr Holdings Inc. is a prominent brand and a pioneering platform dedicated to serving New Economy participants in China with the mission of empowering New Economy participants to achieve more. The Company started its business with high-quality New Economy-focused content offerings, covering a variety of industries in China’s New Economy with diverse distribution channels. Leveraging traffic brought by high-quality content, the Company has expanded its offerings to business services, including online advertising services, enterprise value-added services and subscription services to address the evolving needs of New Economy companies and upgrading needs of traditional companies. The Company is supported by comprehensive database and strong data analytics capabilities. Through diverse service offerings and the significant brand influence, the Company is well-positioned to continuously capture the high growth potentials of China’s New Economy.
Synthetic drugs are rapidly transforming the global drug trade, fuelling an escalating public health crisis, according to the UN administered International Narcotics Control Board (INCB).
In its 2024 Annual Report, released on Tuesday, the INCB explains that unlike plant-based drugs, these substances can be made anywhere, without the need for large-scale cultivation, making them easier and cheaper for traffickers to produce and distribute.
The rise of powerful opioids like fentanyl and nitazenes – potent enough to cause overdoses in tiny doses – has worsened the crisis, driving record-high deaths.
“The rapid expansion of the illicit synthetic drug industry represents a major global public health threat with potentially disastrous consequences for humankind,” said INCB President Jallal Toufiq.
“We need to work together to take stronger action against this deadly problem which is causing hundreds of deaths and untold harm to communities,” he continued.
Traffickers stay ahead of regulations
Criminal groups are constantly adapting to evade law enforcement.
By exploiting legal loopholes, they develop new synthetic compounds and use artificial intelligence to find alternative chemicals for drug production.
New smuggling methods – including drones and postal deliveries – make these drugs harder to detect.
As a result, seizures of synthetic substances are now outpacing those of traditional plant-based drugs like heroin and cocaine.
Patchwork response
Despite efforts to curb synthetic drugs, responses remain fragmented, allowing traffickers to stay ahead.
The INCB is calling for stronger global cooperation, including partnerships between governments, private companies and international organizations, to disrupt supply chains and prevent harm.
Medication out of reach
While synthetic drugs flood illegal markets, millions of people in low- and middle-income countries still lack access to essential pain relief medication.
The report highlights that opioid painkillers such as morphine, remain unavailable in regions like Africa, South Asia and Central America – not due to supply shortages, but because of barriers in distribution and regulation.
The INCB is urging opioid-producing nations to increase production and affordability to improve palliative care and pain management.
Regional hotspots concerns
The report identifies several regions where synthetic drug trafficking is expanding.
In Europe, the looming heroin deficit following Afghanistan’s 2022 opium ban could push more users toward synthetic alternatives while in North America, despite efforts to curb the crisis, synthetic opioid-related deaths remain at record highs.
The manufacture, trafficking and use of amphetamine-type stimulants are increasing across the Middle East and Africa, where treatment and rehabilitation services are often inadequate.
Meanwhile, in the Asia-Pacific region, methamphetamine and ketamine trafficking continues to grow, particularly in the Golden Triangle.
Call for urgent action
The INCB is urging governments to strengthen international collaboration, improve data-sharing and expand drug prevention and treatment services.
Without decisive action, the synthetic drug trade will continue to evolve, putting more lives at risk.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Secretary for Health meets delegation from Guangzhou Municipal People’s Government (with photos) Secretary for Health meets delegation from Guangzhou Municipal People’s Government (with photos) ******************************************************************************************
The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, met with a delegation led by Vice Mayor of the Guangzhou Municipal People’s Government Mr Lai Zhihong today (March 4) to discuss the deepening of medical co-operation between Hong Kong and Guangzhou. At the meeting, both sides exchanged views on various cross-boundary medical collaboration measures, including the implementation progress of the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme (Pilot Scheme), the cross-boundary use of electronic health records supported by the eHealth mobile application and strengthening the exchanges between healthcare professionals of the two places, which have laid the foundation for further collaboration in the future. Professor Lo said, “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government attaches great importance to cross-boundary medical collaboration, and has been continuously exploring the collaboration in multiple areas and aspects of healthcare, with a view to continuously enhancing the regional advantage of healthcare professions of Hong Kong as well as the entire Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), thereby benefitting the residents in the region. “In this regard, the Health Bureau is actively pressing ahead with the extension of the Pilot Scheme to cover nine Mainland cities in the GBA as set out in the ‘The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address’, with the aim of announcing relevant details in the first half of this year. In addition, we will fully utilise the eHealth platform to expand the sharing of cross-boundary medical records. “I have every confidence that under the guidance of key policies such as the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the National 14th Five-Year Plan, as well as the Resolution of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization adopted by the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, Hong Kong and Guangzhou will take forward healthcare integration and innovation in the GBA through concerted efforts in accordance with the principles of complementarity and mutual benefits, thereby contributing to the needs of national development.” The Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, as well as officials from the Health Bureau and the Department of Health, also attended the meeting today.
All CEOs, DEOs, EROs directed to hold political party meetings regularly and resolve issues within statutory framework Issue wise action taken reports to be filed by CEOs by 31st March, 2025
ECI holds conference of CEOs of all States/UTs; Over 100 officials participate
Posted On: 04 MAR 2025 3:02PM by PIB Delhi
The Election Commission of India today began a two-day conference of CEOs of all States/UTs at IIIDEM, New Delhi. This is the first such conference to be held since Shri Gyanesh Kumar assumed charge as CEC. CEC and ECs Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi interacted with CEOs on a series of topics that will pave the way for improvements in election management in the country within the established legal framework.
In his address, CEC Shri Gyanesh Kumar exhorted all officials including all CEOs, DEOs, EROs, BLOs across the country to work transparently and fulfill all statutory obligations diligently and as per the existing legal framework i.e. the RP Act 1950 & 1951; Registration of Elector Rules 1960, Conduct of Election Rules 1961 and the instructions issued by ECI from time to time.
He directed officials to be approachable and responsive to political parties. He added that all party meetings at all statutory levels be held regularly to resolve any issues within the existing statutory framework by the concerned competent authority i.e. ERO or DEO or CEO. The issue wise action taken report by each CEO is to be submitted by March 31, 2025 to their concerned DEC.
He emphasized that all CEOs, DEOs, ROs, EROs should be thorough with their roles and responsibilities, as clearly delineated within the statute and ECI instructions. He added that officials should ensure that all citizens of India who are above 18 years of age are registered as electors as per Article 325 and Article 326 of the Constitution. He directed that all BLOs be trained to be courteous with electors while also ensuring that no electoral staff or officer is intimidated by anyone using false claims.
Officials were directed to make efforts to have between 800-1200 electors in each polling booth and ensure that it is within 2 kms distance from the residence of each elector. Polling Booths with proper Assured Minimum Facilities should be established for the ease of voting in rural areas. Polling Booths should also be established in high rise buildings as well as slum clusters to increase voting in urban areas.
After a comprehensive mapping of the Constitutional framework and statutes, the Commission has identified 28 distinct stakeholders in the entire election process including CEOs, DEOs EROs, political parties, candidates, polling agents etc. The conference aims to strengthen the capacity building of each of the 28 identified stakeholders which have been divided amongst all CEOs in four cohorts namely Electoral Rolls, Conduct of Elections, Supervisory/Enforcement and Political Parties/Candidates, under the guidance of each of the four DECs in the Commission. More details to follow tomorrow after the conclusion of the conference.
For the first time one DEO and one ERO from each State/UT are taking part in the conference.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
HKSAR Government expresses strong disapproval of US’s imposition of additional duty on products of Hong Kong HKSAR Government expresses strong disapproval of US’s imposition of additional duty on products of Hong Kong ******************************************************************************************
The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) today (March 4) expressed strong disapproval of the US’s imposition of a further 10 per cent duty on products of Hong Kong (i.e. a cumulative 20 per cent duty). A spokesman for the HKSAR Government said, “The US’s measure is grossly inconsistent with the relevant World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, undermines the rules-based multilateral trading system and harms the interest of both parties. The HKSAR Government once again urges the US to take immediate actions to rectify its wrongdoing and withdraw the unilateral tariff measures. “The HKSAR Government strongly opposes any unreasonable behaviour that disregards the international trade order. As announced earlier, the HKSAR Government will file a complaint regarding the matter with the WTO to defend our legitimate rights,” the spokesman reiterated.
India’s security apparatus must remain adaptive to emerging threats such as cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, space-based challenges, and transnational organised crime: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh Advanced systems & technologies must be leveraged not only for security operations but also for disaster management & humanitarian relief: RM
“It is not enough for security agencies and technology developers to take the lead. Every citizen should know how to respond in times of crisis”
Posted On: 04 MAR 2025 2:27PM by PIB Delhi
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) – Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Collaboration Conference-Cum-Exhibition on ‘Advanced Technologies for Internal Security and Disaster Relief Operations’ at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi on March 04, 2025. Organised by the Directorate of Low Intensity Conflict (DLIC) under DRDO, the two-day conference aims to equip Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) officers with the latest advancements in technology to address challenges in their operations. The event provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and collaboration to strengthen India’s internal security and disaster response framework.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the growing complexities in global security and the increasing overlap between internal and external threats. “Security challenges in the modern world are evolving rapidly, and the overlap between internal and external security is increasing. It is imperative that our institutions break silos and work collaboratively to ensure a strong, secure, and self-reliant India,” he stated. He stressed that India’s national security must be viewed holistically, integrating efforts across different security agencies and leveraging the latest technological advancements.
Shri Rajnath Singh underscored that India’s security apparatus must remain adaptive to emerging threats such as cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, space-based challenges, and transnational organised crime. He noted that India’s internal security is not just about managing conventional threats like terrorism, separatist movements, and left-wing extremism but also about preparing for unconventional threats that can destabilise the nation’s economic and strategic interests. “The adversaries of today do not always come with traditional weapons; cyber-attacks, misinformation campaigns, and space-based espionage are emerging as new-age threats that require advanced solutions,” he stated.
“DRDO has played a pivotal role in enhancing India’s defence capabilities, and its contributions to internal security are equally commendable. From small arms and bulletproof jackets to surveillance and communication systems, DRDO’s innovations are empowering our security forces,” Raksha Mantri underlined. He urged DRDO and MHA to work together to create a common list of scalable products that can be jointly developed and deployed in a time-bound manner. “Our security forces require the best tools and technologies to remain ahead of the curve. It is encouraging to see DRDO’s focus on modernisation, with products like small arms, surveillance equipment and drone systems either inducted or undergoing evaluation for deployment in internal security agencies,” he highlighted.
Shri Rajnath Singh recalled his tenure as Home Minister, highlighting how the collaboration between security agencies and scientific institutions led to significant technological advancements. He cited examples of DRDO-developed technologies such as the corner shot weapon system, INSAS rifles, IED jammer vehicles and riot control vehicles, which were effectively integrated into the operations of CAPFs.
Shri Rajnath Singh also spoke about the importance of leveraging technology not just for security but also for disaster management and humanitarian relief. “The role of technology is not just in defence but also in ensuring peace and social welfare. Advanced systems like bulletproof jackets, drones, surveillance equipment and anti-drone technologies must be leveraged not only for security operations but also for disaster management and humanitarian relief,” he said. He cited the increasing frequency of natural calamities like cyclones, avalanches, earthquakes & cloud bursts and underscored the critical need for advanced rescue tools. He mentioned that the use of technologies such as thermal imaging cameras, drone-based detection systems, and victim locating devices can significantly reduce casualties and damage.
Referring to the recent avalanche in Mana, Uttarakhand, Raksha Mantri lauded the use of advanced rescue equipment in saving lives and reducing the impact of the disaster. He threw light on the fact that although disasters are tragic in themselves, their impact can be minimised with the use of advanced technology and how, in the recent avalanche, technologies like rotary rescue saws, thermal imaging, victim locating cameras, avalanche rods, and drone-based detection systems played a crucial role in saving lives.
Highlighting the importance of public awareness in disaster management, Shri Rajnath Singh called for greater involvement of civil society in disaster preparedness. “Today, India is a prospering nation, and disaster management must become an integral part of our preparedness. It is not enough for security agencies and technology developers to take the lead; we must also educate the general public. Every citizen should know how to respond in times of crisis,” he urged.
Raksha Mantri also stressed the need for focused conferences on specific security challenges faced by different regions of the country. “Security threats in India are not uniform. The issues faced in the Northeast due to insurgencies are different from those in Naxal-affected areas or border regions. Similarly, urban security concerns are different from those in rural areas. We need to organise dedicated conferences that focus on region-specific challenges and solutions,” he said.
As part of the event, the Transfer of Technology (ToT) of the ASMI 9x19mm Machine Pistol was handed over by DRDO to Lokesh Machinery Tool, marking a step forward in the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Shri Rajnath Singh also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing DRDO-designed technologies developed in collaboration with the Indian defence industry, highlighting achievements in indigenisation. Three significant documents were also released to strengthen cooperation and technological advancements in internal security and disaster management. These include:
1. Compendium of DRDO Products for Internal Security
2. Compendium of DRDO Products for Police Operations
3. Compendium of DRDO Products for Disaster Relief Operations
The conference includes seven technical sessions focusing on key areas such as Left-Wing Extremism, border management, advanced weapon technologies, drone & counter-drone solutions, disaster management, policing & crowd control, and futuristic communication technologies.
Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat during the conference stated that more than 100 products from DRDO developed technologies have been or soon will be inducted into various agencies of MHA. He further mentioned that the technologies which DRDO develops for the services are also being utilised in internal security as well as disaster relief operations. Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Secretary (Border Management) MHA Shri Rajendra Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, DG (Production, Coordination & Services Interaction) Dr Chandrika Kaushik, senior officials from Ministry of Defence and MHA were also present on the occasion.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
CMU OmniClear and HKEX sign MOU on enhancing post-trade securities infrastructure of Hong Kong’s capital markets (with photos) CMU OmniClear and HKEX sign MOU on enhancing post-trade securities infrastructure of Hong Kong’s capital markets (with photos) ******************************************************************************************
The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority: CMU OmniClear Limited (CMU OmniClear), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Exchange Fund, and Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today (March 4) to deepen their collaboration in enhancing the post-trade securities infrastructure of Hong Kong’s capital markets, and supporting the long-term development of the city’s fixed-income and currencies (FIC) ecosystem. Based on the MOU, CMU OmniClear and HKEX will explore and pursue cooperation in areas such as realising cross-asset class efficiencies across equities and fixed income, expanding the use of Mainland bonds as collateral, enhancing Hong Kong as a bond issuance centre and developing an international central securities depository (ICSD) in Asia, with a view to consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre, a global risk management centre, and an offshore Renminbi (RMB) business hub. The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of CMU OmniClear, Mr Eddie Yue, said “We are delighted to deepen the cooperation with HKEX on financial market infrastructures in Hong Kong. This MOU signifies an important milestone and our shared commitment to supporting the development of Hong Kong’s capital markets. This is also a pivotal step in accelerating the transformation of the Central Moneymarkets Unit (CMU) into an ICSD in Asia upon the establishment of CMU OmniClear. With our collective efforts, we believe we can offer the market a wider spectrum of products across asset classes, fostering the continued development and innovation in Hong Kong’s financial markets.” The Chief Executive Officer at HKEX, Ms Bonnie Chan, said, “We are delighted to be entering into this cooperation agreement with CMU OmniClear. This agreement underscores HKEX’s strategic commitment to build a vibrant, world-leading FIC ecosystem in Hong Kong. We look forward to working closely with the HKMA and CMU OmniClear to advance the development of Hong Kong’s fixed-income market, enabling the next chapter of RMB internationalisation and enhancing Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre, a global risk management centre, and an offshore RMB business hub.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Statistics on vessels, port cargo and containers for the fourth quarter of 2024 Statistics on vessels, port cargo and containers for the fourth quarter of 2024 *******************************************************************************
The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) today (March 4) released the statistics on vessels, port cargo and containers for the fourth quarter of 2024. In the fourth quarter of 2024, total port cargo throughput increased by 1.1% to 44.3 million tonnes over a year earlier. Within this total, inward port cargo decreased by 3.5% to 27.3 million tonnes, while outward port cargo increased by 9.6% to 17.1 million tonnes. For 2024 as a whole, total port cargo throughput increased by 1.0% to 176.7 million tonnes over a year earlier. Within this total, inward port cargo decreased by 0.5% to 111.1 million tonnes, while outward port cargo increased by 3.9% to 65.6 million tonnes. On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter comparison, total port cargo throughput increased by 2.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024. Within this total, inward port cargo decreased by 1.4% compared with the preceding quarter, while outward port cargo increased by 8.9% compared with the preceding quarter. The seasonally adjusted series enables more meaningful shorter-term comparison to be made for discerning possible variations in trends. Port cargo In the fourth quarter of 2024, within port cargo, seaborne cargo decreased by 1.8% to 27.8 million tonnes over a year earlier, while river cargo increased by 6.5% to 16.5 million tonnes over a year earlier. In the whole year of 2024, within port cargo, seaborne cargo decreased by 4.1% to 110.5 million tonnes over a year earlier, while river cargo increased by 10.9% to 66.2 million tonnes over a year earlier. Comparing the fourth quarter of 2024 with a year earlier, double-digit increases were recorded in the tonnage of inward port cargo loaded in Korea (+43.4%) and Singapore (+18.3%). On the other hand, double-digit decreases were recorded in the tonnage of inward port cargo loaded in Indonesia (-42.5%), the United States of America (-31.5%), Malaysia (-24.1%), Thailand (-20.6%), Vietnam (-17.7%) and Japan (-13.1%). For outward port cargo, double-digit increases were recorded in the tonnage of outward port cargo discharged in Taiwan (+29.9%), Vietnam (+21.6%), the mainland of China (+21.4%) and Korea (+20.3%). On the other hand, double-digit decreases were recorded in the tonnage of outward port cargo discharged in the Philippines (-49.0%), Malaysia (-21.9%), Japan (-17.6%) and the United States of America (-12.1%). Comparing the whole year of 2024 with a year earlier, double-digit increases were recorded in the tonnage of inward port cargo loaded in Korea (+29.4%) and Singapore (+21.4%). On the other hand, double-digit decreases were recorded in the tonnage of inward port cargo loaded in the United States of America (-27.5%), Indonesia (-26.9%), Malaysia (-21.0%), Vietnam (-18.3%), Thailand (-16.0%) and Japan (-15.8%). For outward port cargo, double-digit increases were recorded in the tonnage of outward port cargo discharged in Vietnam (+15.3%), the mainland of China (+12.6%) and Taiwan (+11.5%). On the other hand, double-digit decreases were recorded in the tonnage of outward port cargo discharged in the Philippines (-32.2%), Japan (-19.2%), Malaysia (-16.0%), Thailand (-13.4%) and the United States of America (-10.9%). Comparing the fourth quarter of 2024 with a year earlier, double-digit changes were recorded in the tonnage of inward port cargo of “metalliferous ores and metal scrap” (+26.3%), “petroleum, petroleum products and related materials” (+22.8%), “artificial resins and plastic materials” (-10.1%), “stone, sand and gravel” (-13.2%) and “coal, coke and briquettes” (-48.2%). As for outward port cargo, triple-digit or double-digit increases were recorded in the tonnage of “stone, sand and gravel” (+169.0%), “metalliferous ores and metal scrap” (+30.1%) and “live animals chiefly for food and edible animal products” (+11.8%). Comparing the whole year of 2024 with a year earlier, double-digit changes were recorded in the tonnage of inward port cargo of “petroleum, petroleum products and related materials” (+17.5%), “metalliferous ores and metal scrap” (+12.2%) and “coal, coke and briquettes” (-15.3%). As for outward port cargo, triple-digit or double-digit changes were recorded in the tonnage of “stone, sand and gravel” (+142.8%), “metalliferous ores and metal scrap” (+13.7%) and “live animals chiefly for food and edible animal products” (-11.2%). Containers In the fourth quarter of 2024, the port of Hong Kong handled 3.51 million TEUs of containers, representing a decrease of 2.8% over a year earlier. Within this total, laden and empty containers decreased by 0.2% and 11.7% to 2.79 million TEUs and 0.72 million TEUs respectively. Among laden containers, inward containers remained virtually unchanged, at 1.48 million TEUs, while outward containers decreased by 0.4% to 1.31 million TEUs. For 2024 as a whole, the port of Hong Kong handled 13.69 million TEUs of containers, representing a decrease of 5.0% over a year earlier. Within this total, laden and empty containers decreased by 3.4% and 10.6% to 10.93 million TEUs and 2.76 million TEUs respectively. Among laden containers, inward and outward containers decreased by 3.3% and 3.5% to 5.85 million TEUs and 5.08 million TEUs respectively. On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter comparison, laden container throughput increased by 2.7% in the fourth quarter of 2024. Within this total, inward and outward laden containers increased by 1.5% and 4.1% respectively. In the fourth quarter of 2024, seaborne laden containers decreased by 1.4% to 1.93 million TEUs over a year earlier, while river laden containers increased by 2.6% to 0.86 million TEUs. In the whole year of 2024, seaborne laden containers decreased by 5.0% to 7.63 million TEUs over a year earlier, while river laden containers increased by 0.6% to 3.30 million TEUs. Vessel arrivals Comparing the fourth quarter of 2024 with a year earlier, the number of ocean vessel arrivals decreased by 1.4% to 4 772, with the total capacity also decreasing by 1.1% to 76.4 million net tons. Meanwhile, the number of river vessel arrivals increased by 1.0% to 20 685, with the total capacity also increasing by 16.7% to 23.4 million net tons. Comparing the whole year of 2024 with a year earlier, the number of ocean vessel arrivals decreased by 2.5% to 18 395, with the total capacity also decreasing by 3.2% to 291.9 million net tons. Meanwhile, the number of river vessel arrivals increased by 12.1% to 82 194, with the total capacity also increasing by 13.5% to 84.8 million net tons. Further information Port cargo and laden container statistics are compiled from a sample of consignments listed in the cargo manifests supplied by shipping companies and agents to the C&SD. Vessel statistics are compiled by the Marine Department primarily from general declarations submitted by ship masters and authorised shipping agents. Pleasure vessels and fishing vessels plying exclusively within the river trade limits are excluded. Table 1 presents the detailed port cargo statistics. Table 2 and Table 3 respectively present the inward and outward port cargo statistics by main countries/territories of loading and discharge. Table 4 and Table 5 respectively present the inward and outward port cargo statistics by principal commodities. Table 6 presents the detailed container statistics. Table 7 presents the statistics on vessel arrivals in Hong Kong. More detailed statistics on port cargo, containers and vessels are published in the report “Hong Kong Shipping Statistics, Fourth Quarter 2024”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1020008&scode=230). For enquiries about port cargo and container statistics, please contact the Electronic Trading Services and Cargo Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 2126 or email: shipping@censtatd.gov.hk). For enquiries about vessel statistics, readers may contact the Statistics Section under the Planning, Development and Port Security Branch of the Marine Department (Tel: 2852 3662 or email: st-sec@mardep.gov.hk).
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
NG, NGD and NSOG volunteer service-themed cultural signs launched (with photo) NG, NGD and NSOG volunteer service-themed cultural signs launched (with photo) ******************************************************************************
The launch of the Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs for the 15th National Games (NG), the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG), and a volunteer service exchange event between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao was held at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou earlier. The event was organised by the Guangdong Provincial Executive Committees for the NG, NGD, and NSOG and hosted by Sun Yat-sen University. The Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs were unveiled at the event. Persons in charge of volunteer services of the Games and volunteer service organisations in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao also shared and exchanged views on the Games’ volunteer services on the same occasion. The Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs are important cultural symbols that carry the spirit of the NG, NGD and NSOG, as well as the vision of the volunteer services. The signs are meaningful for promoting the spirit of volunteers, the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG, and creating a favourable social atmosphere for community participation and dedication. The signs will be used conjointly in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao to further enhance collaboration of volunteer services among the three places, and promote the establishment of a volunteer culture system in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The volunteer service emblem, echoing the main emblem of the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG, takes the shape of a heart as a whole. It adopts the same visual concept of a blooming flower used in the main emblem. The colours of the volunteer service emblem follow the main emblem’s tone, with the cotton red of Guangdong, the bauhinia purple of Hong Kong and the lotus green of Macao in the form of a concentric flower. The volunteer service slogan is “Be more wonderful for you”. While “you” represents the events of the Games, and everyone who witnesses, participates in and supports the Games, “wonderful” is one of the requirements for hosting the Games, and also embodies athletes’ excellent performances and volunteers’ contributions to the Games. The volunteer nickname is Little Dolphin, signifying that the volunteers from Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao are friendly, lovely, motivated, intelligent and united like dolphins. For details of the Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs, please refer to the press release issued by the Guangdong Provincial Executive Committees for the NG, NGD, and NSOG (www.baygames.cn/node_0e9abf3fbd/2b01bc990f.shtml) (Chinese only). For more information on the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG in Hong Kong, please visit the thematic website (www.2025nationalgames.gov.hk/en/index.html) as well as the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/2025nationalgames.hk) and Instagram page (www.instagram.com/2025nationalgames.hk).
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the post-budget webinars MSMEs play a transformative role in the economic growth of our country, We are committed to nurturing and strengthening this sector: PM
In the last 10 years, India has consistently shown its commitment towards reforms, financial discipline, transparency and inclusive growth: PM
Consistency and assurance of reforms, is such a change, that has brought new confidence in our industry: PM
Today every country in the world wants to strengthen its economic partnership with India: PM
Our manufacturing sector should come forward to take maximum advantage of this partnership: PM
We took forward the vision of self-reliant India and further accelerated our pace of reforms: PM
Our efforts reduced the impact of COVID on the economy, helping India become a fast-growing economy: PM
R&D has played an important role in India’s manufacturing journey ,it needs to be taken forward and accelerated: PM
Through R&D we can focus on innovative products, as well as add value to the products: PM
MSME sector is the backbone of India’s manufacturing and industrial growth: PM
Posted On: 04 MAR 2025 1:36PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today addressed the Post- Budget webinars via video conferencing. The webinars were held on MSME as an Engine of Growth; Manufacturing, Exports and Nuclear Energy Missions; Regulatory, Investment and Ease of doing business Reforms. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, he remarked that the post-budget webinars on manufacturing and export are of great importance. Mentioning that this budget is the first full budget of the Government’s third term, he emphasised that the most notable aspect of this budget is its delivery, which exceeded expectations. Shri Modi pointed out that in several sectors, the Government has taken steps beyond what experts had anticipated. He also highlighted that significant decisions have been made regarding manufacturing and export in this budget.
Pointing out that the country has witnessed consistent Government policies for over a decade, the Prime Minister highlighted that in the past 10 years, India had shown a commitment to reforms, financial discipline, transparency, and inclusive growth. He emphasized that the assurance of consistency and reforms has brought new confidence within the industry. He assured every stakeholder in manufacturing and export that this consistency will continue in the coming years. Encouraging stakeholders to take bold steps and open new avenues for manufacturing and export for the country, Shri Modi highlighted that every country in the world wants to strengthen its economic partnership with India. He urged the manufacturing sector to take full advantage of this partnership.
“Stable policy and a better business environment are crucial for the development of any country”, said the Prime Minister, highlighting that a few years ago, the Government introduced the Jan Vishwas Act and made efforts to reduce compliances. Over 40,000 compliances were eliminated at both central and state levels, promoting ease of doing business, he noted. Emphasizing that this exercise should continue, Shri Modi mentioned that the Government had introduced simplified income tax provisions and is working on the Jan Vishwas 2.0 Bill. A committee has been formed to review regulations in the non-financial sector, aiming to make them modern, flexible, people-friendly, and trust-based, he added further and highlighted the significant role of the industry in this exercise. He encouraged stakeholders to identify problems that take longer to resolve, suggest ways to simplify processes, and guide where technology can be used to achieve quicker and better results.
“The world is currently experiencing political uncertainty, and the entire world views India as a growth center”, said Shri Modi, highlighting that during the COVID crisis, when the global economy slowed down, India accelerated global growth. He added that this was achieved by advancing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and accelerating reforms. He emphasized that these efforts minimized the impact of COVID on the economy, helping India become one of the fastest-growing economies. He said, “India remains a growth engine for the global economy and has proven its resilience in challenging situations”. Pointing out that disruptions in the supply chain affect the global economy, and the world needs reliable partners that produce high-quality products and ensure reliable supply, Shri Modi emphasized that India was capable of fulfilling this need, presenting a significant opportunity for the country. He urged the industry not to be mere spectators but to actively seek their role and carve out opportunities. He pointed out that it is easier today compared to the past, as the country has friendly policies and the Government stands shoulder to shoulder with the industry. The Prime Minister called for a strong resolve, objectivity in seeking opportunities in the global supply chain, and accepting challenges. He emphasized that if every industry takes one step forward, collectively, they can achieve significant progress.
Highlighting that 14 sectors were currently benefiting from the PLI scheme, the Prime Minister said that under the scheme, more than 750 units have been approved, resulting in an investment of over ₹1.5 lakh crore, production worth over ₹13 lakh crore, and exports exceeding ₹5 lakh crore. He emphasized that this demonstrates how entrepreneurs can advance in new areas when given opportunities. Shri Modi announced the decision to launch two missions to promote manufacturing and export. He highlighted the focus on better technology and quality products, as well as the emphasis on skilling to reduce costs. He urged all stakeholders to identify new products in demand globally that can be manufactured in India and encouraged them to approach countries with export potential strategically.
“R&D has played a crucial role in India’s manufacturing journey and needs further advancement and acceleration”, remarked the Prime Minister. He highlighted that through R&D, the focus can be on innovative products and value addition to existing products. He emphasized that the world recognizes the potential of India’s toy, footwear, and leather industries and by combining traditional crafts with modern technologies, significant success can be achieved. He noted that India can become global champion in these sectors, leading to a substantial increase in exports. Shri Modi highlighted that this growth will create lakhs of job opportunities in labor-intensive sectors and promote entrepreneurship. Mentioning that the PM Vishwakarma Yojana provides end-to-end support to traditional artisans, he urged efforts to connect these artisans with new opportunities and called on all stakeholders to come forward to expand the hidden potential in these sectors.
“MSME sector is the backbone of India’s manufacturing and industrial growth”, said the Prime Minister. He highlighted that in 2020, the Government made a significant decision to revise the definition of MSMEs after 14 years, which eliminated the fear among MSMEs that they would lose government benefits if they grew. He noted that the number of MSMEs in the country has increased to over 6 crore, providing employment opportunities to crores. Shri Modi emphasized that in this budget, the definition of MSMEs has been further expanded to instill confidence in their continuous growth. This will create more employment opportunities for the youth, he said, highlighting that the biggest problem faced by MSMEs was the difficulty in obtaining loans. He added that ten years ago, MSMEs received loans worth approximately ₹12 lakh crore, which has now increased to around ₹30 lakh crore. The Prime Minister announced that in this budget, the guarantee cover for MSME loans has been doubled to ₹20 crore. Additionally, customized credit cards with a limit of ₹5 lakh will be provided to meet working capital needs.
Underlining that the Government had facilitated loan access and introduced a new type of loan, Shri Modi highlighted that people are now receiving loans without guarantees, something they never imagined before. Over the past 10 years, schemes like MUDRA, which provide loans without guarantees, have also supported small industries, he said, noting that the Trades portal is resolving many loan-related issues. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to develop new modes of credit delivery, ensuring that every MSME has access to low-cost and timely credit. He announced that five lakh first-time entrepreneurs from women, SC, and ST communities will receive loans of ₹2 crore. He highlighted that first-time entrepreneurs need not only credit support but also guidance and urged the industry to create a mentorship program to help these individuals.
Underscoring the role of states is crucial in boosting investment, Shri Modi emphasized that the more states promote ease of doing business, the more investors they will attract. He pointed out that this will benefit the respective states the most. He encouraged competition among states to see who can make the most of this budget. He noted that states with progressive policies will attract companies to invest in their regions.
Expressing confidence that all participants are seriously considering these topics, the Prime Minister emphasized that the webinar aims to determine actionable solutions. He highlighted the importance of participants’ cooperation in preparing policies, schemes, and guidelines. He noted that this will help in formulating implementation strategies post-budget. He concluded by expressing his belief that the participants’ contributions will prove to be very useful.
Several Union Ministers were present among other dignitaries over video conferencing on the occasion.
Background
The webinars will provide a collaborative platform for government officials, industry leaders, and trade experts to deliberate on India’s industrial, trade, and energy strategies. The discussions will focus on policy execution, investment facilitation, and technology adoption, ensuring seamless implementation of the Budget’s transformative measures. The webinars will engage private sector experts, industry representatives, and subject matter specialists to align efforts and drive impactful implementation of Budget announcements.
MSMEs play a transformative role in the economic growth of our country. We are committed to nurturing and strengthening this sector. Sharing my remarks during a webinar on the MSME sector. https://t.co/K93zTIcdVa
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Suspected red tide sighted at Deep Water Bay Beach Suspected red tide sighted at Deep Water Bay Beach **************************************************
Attention TV and radio announcers:Please broadcast the following as soon as possible: Here is an item of interest to swimmers. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (March 4) that due to the sighting of a suspected red tide, the red flag has been hoisted at Deep Water Bay Beach in Southern District, Hong Kong Island. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beach until further notice.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Land Registry releases statistics for February Land Registry releases statistics for February **********************************************
The Land Registry today (March 4) released its statistics for February 2025.Land registration——————-* The number of sale and purchase agreements for all building units received for registration in February was 4 307 (-12.8 per cent compared with January 2025 but +35.1 per cent compared with February 2024)* The 12-month moving average for February was 5 803 (1.6 per cent above the 12-month moving average for January 2025 and 26.1 per cent above that for February 2024)* The total consideration for sale and purchase agreements of building units in February was $28.3 billion (-23.0 per cent compared with January 2025 but +25.3 per cent compared with February 2024)* Among the sale and purchase agreements, 3 200 were for residential units (-11.7 per cent compared with January 2025 but +34.7 per cent compared with February 2024)* The total consideration for sale and purchase agreements in respect of residential units was $23.0 billion (-13.9 per cent compared with January 2025 but +20.5 per cent compared with February 2024) Statistics on sales of residential units do not include sale and purchase agreements relating to sales of units under the Home Ownership Scheme, the Private Sector Participation Scheme, the Tenants Purchase Scheme, etc, unless the premium of the unit concerned has been paid after the sale restriction period. Figures on sale and purchase agreements received for the past 12 months, the year-on-year rate of change and breakdown figures on residential sales have also been released. As deeds may not be lodged with the Land Registry until up to 30 days after the transaction, these statistics generally relate to land transactions in the previous month.Land search————-* The number of searches of land registers made by the public in February was 338 037 (+1.1 per cent compared with January 2025 and +22.1 per cent compared with February 2024) The statistics cover searches made at the counter, through the self-service terminals and via the Integrated Registration Information System Online Services.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
A February with close to normal temperature A February with close to normal temperature *******************************************
The monthly mean temperature for February 2025 was 17.3 degrees, close to the normal of 17.1 degrees. The total rainfall recorded at the Hong Kong Observatory Headquarters in the month was 26.1 millimetres, about 33 per cent below the normal of 38.9 millimetres. The accumulated rainfall in the first two months of the year was 30.3 millimetres, about 42 per cent of the normal of 72.1 millimetres for the same period. Under the influence of a relatively humid easterly airstream and with a band of clouds covering the coast of Guangdong, the weather of Hong Kong was mainly cloudy on the first two days of the month, with a few rain patches on the morning of February 1 and coastal mist the next morning. A cold front moved across the coastal areas and brought one or two rain patches on the morning of February 3. Under the influence of the associated northeast monsoon, it was generally fine in the following two days, with a cold morning on February 4. As a band of clouds gradually covered southern China, it became cloudier on the afternoon of February 5 and the next day. An intense winter monsoon gradually affected the coast of Guangdong on February 7, and brought cold and dry weather to Hong Kong in the following three days. The temperatures at the Observatory dropped to a minimum of 11.5 degrees on the morning of February 8, the lowest of the month, and relative humidity in most parts of the territory fell below 40 per cent on February 8 and 9. With the band of clouds associated with the broad area of low pressure over the southern part of the South China Sea edging closer to the coastal areas on the afternoon of February 11, it was mainly cloudy with some rain patches in the following four days. More than 10 millimetres of rainfall were recorded over most parts of the territory on February 12. There were also fog patches on that day, and the visibility at Waglan Island once fell to around 200 metres. While it was mainly cloudy with one or two light rain patches on the morning of February 16, it became fine and warm during the day as the band of clouds covering the coast of Guangdong thinned out gradually. Under the influence of the northeast monsoon, the weather remained generally fine on February 17 and 18. Affected by a band of clouds covering the coast of southern China, the weather turned cloudier in the following five days with one or two rain patches on February 22 and 23. With a replenishment of the monsoon reaching the coast of southern China on February 23, the next morning was rather cool, and the weather turned fine and dry in the afternoon. Affected by a rain band and clouds associated with upper-air disturbances, the weather became mainly cloudy with one or two rain patches on February 25 and 26. With the departure of the upper-air disturbances and the setting in of a maritime airstream, it was mainly fine during the day on February 27 and 28. The weather was warm during the day on February 28 with the temperatures at the Observatory rising to a maximum of 25.4 degrees in the afternoon, the highest of the month. There was no tropical cyclone over the South China Sea and the western North Pacific in February 2025. Details of issuance and cancellation of various warnings/signals in the month are summarised in Table 1. Monthly meteorological figures and departures from normal for February are tabulated in Table 2.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Appointments to Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority announced Appointments to Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority announced ********************************************************************
The Government announced today (March 4) that the Chief Executive (CE), in exercise of his authority under the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance (Cap. 485) (MPFSO), has reappointed Mrs Ayesha Macpherson Lau as the Chairman and the Non-Executive Director (NED) of the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA). At the same time, the Financial Secretary, in exercise of the authority under the MPFSO delegated to him by the CE, has appointed Mr Chau Siu-chung and Dr Wingco Lo Kam-wing, and reappointed Mr Dominic Pang Yat-ting, Mr Bill Tang Ka-piu, Dr Levin Wang Lei and Ms Fanny Wong Lai-kwan as NEDs of the MPFA. The above appointments will be effective from March 17, 2025, till March 16, 2027, lasting for a term of two years. Announcing the appointments, the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said, “Mrs Lau was first appointed as an NED of the MPFA in 2017 and assumed the chairmanship in 2021. During her present tenure, she has steered the MPFA executive team in developing and launching the eMPF Platform, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency of the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) System and creating room for fee reductions. We trust that under Mrs Lau’s leadership, the MPFA will continue to discharge its statutory functions for the betterment of our MPF System.” Mr Hui added, “Taking this opportunity, I welcome Mr Chau Siu-chung and Dr Wingco Lo Kam-wing to the MPFA Management Board. We are confident that with their respective knowledge and experience in the labour and business sectors, the MPFA will continue to enhance the role of the MPF System in retirement protection to safeguard the interests of our scheme members.” Mr Hui also thanked the outgoing NEDs, Mr Lam Chun-sing and Mr Karson Choi Ka-tsan, for their dedicated service and valuable advice to the MPFA over the past few years. The MPFA is a statutory body established under the MPFSO in September 1998 for the regulation and supervision of the MPF System. The new membership of the MPFA is as follows: Chairman and Non-Executive Director——————————————Mrs Ayesha Macpherson Lau Non-Executive Directors—————————Mr Chau Siu-chungMiss Queenie Fiona LauDr Wingco Lo Kam-wingMr Dominic Pang Yat-tingMr Bill Tang Ka-piuDr Levin Wang LeiMs Fanny Wong Lai-kwanSecretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Financial Services) as alternate)Secretary for Labour and Welfare (Permanent Secretary for Labour and Welfare as alternate) Executive Directors———————Mr Cheng Yan-cheeMs Cynthia Hui Wai-yeeMr Wallace Lau Ka-kiMr Eric Cheng Siu-funMr Kenneth Chan Siu-yum
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
DH urges public on World Obesity Day to manage weight through healthy lifestyle DH urges public on World Obesity Day to manage weight through healthy lifestyle ********************************************************************************
Today (March 4) is World Obesity Day and the Controller of the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health (DH), Dr Edwin Tsui, reminded the public that obesity increases the risk of many chronic diseases and urged them to pay attention to the problem of obesity and develop a healthy lifestyle to achieve and maintain an appropriate body weight. The World Obesity Federation has designated March 4 each year as World Obesity Day to promote and support the maintenance of a healthy body weight and to address the global obesity crisis. The theme of this year’s World Obesity Day is “Changing Systems, Healthier Lives”, which calls on the public to focus on the factors that contribute to the increasing rates of obesity around the world and strive to improve food systems, the environment and health systems, etc. In Hong Kong, a body mass index (BMI) of adults from 23 to less than 25 is regarded as overweight, while a BMI of 25 or more is considered obese. According to the Population Health Survey conducted by the DH, the prevalence of overweight and obesity among people aged between 15 and 84 in Hong Kong increased from 50 per cent in 2014/15 to 54.6 per cent in 2020-22. As for students who attended the DH’s Student Health Service Centres for an annual health assessment, the prevalence of overweight (including obesity) among primary students decreased from 19.5 per cent in 2022/23 school year to 16.4 per cent in 2023/24 school year, which was a record low since 2014/15 school year. However, the prevalence of overweight (including obesity) among secondary students remained high at 20 per cent. “Extensive research over the world has shown that increasing obesity is associated with increasing mortality. Obesity is a major risk factor for a number of chronic diseases, including hypertension, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, musculoskeletal disorders and sleep apnoea. To achieve and maintain a healthy weight, members of the public are encouraged to practice healthy living from an early age, including maintaining a balanced diet, being physically active and reducing the amount of time spent being sedentary,” Dr Tsui said. The DH has been working with other government departments and community partners to promote healthy lifestyles, including the EatSmart Restaurant Star+ campaign, the StartSmart@school.hk, EatSmart@school.hk campaigns, and the “10 000 Steps a Day” campaign. “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” also announced the establishment of a Life-course Health Promotion Strategy and strengthening of the DH’s Whole School Health Programme. In addition, to shift the emphasis of the healthcare system and mindset from treatment-oriented to prevention-oriented, the Government is reforming healthcare services with the establishment of District Health Centres (DHCs) that provide health promotions, health-risk factor assessments, disease screenings and chronic disease management. The DHCs also conduct various kinds of health promotion activities, including offering guidance on healthy eating patterns, weight management and the provision of exercise classes.
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today congratulated H.E. Mr. Christian Stocker on being sworn in as the Federal Chancellor of Austria. He added that the India-Austria Enhanced Partnership was poised to make steady progress in the years to come.
Shri Modi in a post on X wrote:
“Warmly congratulate H.E. Christian Stocker on being sworn in as the Federal Chancellor of Austria. The India-Austria Enhanced Partnership is poised to make steady progress in the years to come. I look forward to working with you to take our mutually beneficial cooperation to unprecedented heights. @_CStocker”
Warmly congratulate H.E. Christian Stocker on being sworn in as the Federal Chancellor of Austria. The India-Austria Enhanced Partnership is poised to make steady progress in the years to come. I look forward to working with you to take our mutually beneficial cooperation to…
PRESS RELEASE 21 Feb 2025 – Today, the Governments of Australia and Samoa signed an agreement to increase Australia’s budget support to WST$28 million for the current financial year.
This additional support is part of Australia’s long-term contributions into Samoa’s development spanning over 8-years – from 2023 to 2031 – and totalling WST$187.7 million.
Signed by Australia’s High Commissioner to Samoa, His Excellency Mr William Robinson, and Samoa’s Minister of Finance, the Honourable Lautimuia Uelese Vaai, this support is underpinned by the deep trust the two nations share, and their joint commitment to enhancing service delivery for Samoa’s communities.
“Our signing of this agreement embodies the spirit of trust we have in one another, and an expression of our belief that our prosperity is best pursued together. This will support the Government of Samoa’s expenditure right across the board for things that matter most to Samoans – from paying teacher’s salaries, ensuring hospitals have the supplies they need, and maintaining quality roads,” said High Commissioner Robinson.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Samoa, I express our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the Government and the people of Australia for their continuous support to Samoa’s development. The additional general budget support marks yet another milestone in the trusted-long lasting relationship and development partnership between our two countries – Australia and Samoa. We remain committed to addressing the priority needs of our people, through various initiatives and integrating priorities for development through general budget support. We are also appreciative of the commitment to the JPAM arrangement supporting high impact policies that inform and guide priorities for Samoa,” said Minister Lautimuia.
This additional budget support will contribute to the delivery of essential services that the people of Samoa rely on, including in health, education, gender, disability and social protection.
Australia’s budget support is delivered in partnership with New Zealand, World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and the European Union through the Joint Policy Action Matrix (JPAM).
The JPAM is an economic reform agenda that enables best practice development partners to support Samoa’s development destiny with their expertise.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Morrison Hill Swimming Pool temporarily closed Morrison Hill Swimming Pool temporarily closed **********************************************
Attention TV/radio announcers:Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals: Here is an item of interest to swimmers. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (March 4) that due to urgent clearance works, Morrison Hill Swimming Pool in Wan Chai District has been temporarily closed and will be reopened at 3.45pm.
Honourable Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua, Minister for Commerce, Industry, and Labour,
Senior Officials of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour,
Chief Executive Officers,
Members of the Samoan Tripartite Forum,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps, including our colleagues from the ONE UN Family,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a great honour for me to address you this morning at the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Samoan Tripartite Forum (Government, Employers, and Workers) on Samoa’s Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) 2024-2028.
First and foremost, allow me to express my deepest gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to my delegation since our arrival at the beginning of this week. I wish to particularly recognize and sincerely thank the Rt. Hon. Afioga Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa for the courtesy extended to me and for the honour and privilege of presenting my credentials.
I would also like to extend my appreciation to the Samoa National Tripartite Forum (SNTF) for the opportunity to attend their meeting and witness firsthand a strong example of social dialogue in action.
The finalization and signing of the DWCP today serve as a testament to Samoa’s unwavering commitment to our shared vision of advancing social justice and decent work.
As you are aware, by committing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), nations around the world pledged under SDG 8 to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. However, achieving this vision requires deliberate, well-thought-out, and prioritized interventions by governments, in collaboration with social partners.
The signing of the DWCP today demonstrates the high value that the Government, workers, employers, and the people of Samoa place on structured and strategic action towards addressing employment challenges in the country.
Ladies and gentlemen, decent work is central to ensuring that the Sustainable Development Goals remain people centered. This means, among other things, that individuals from all walks of life must have a voice in shaping policy processes.
I can confidently say that the DWCP we are signing today meets this standard in several ways:
1. It has been developed jointly by the Government, workers, and employers under
the guidance of the Samoa National Tripartite Forum.
2. It is aligned with Samoa’s national development framework, the Pathway for the
Development of Samoa, which was formulated through extensive countrywide
consultations and reflects the aspirations of the Samoan people.
For the ILO, the DWCP will be our key programming instrument in Samoa. We are pleased that it clearly identifies the priorities of the Government, workers, and employers in promoting decent work. It also forms part of the ILO’s contribution to the broader UN effort in Samoa towards the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Indeed, the DWCP is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for the Pacific (2023-2027) and the Country Implementation Plan for Samoa, whose review I was privileged to participate in earlier this week.
By signing this MOU, the ILO reaffirms its commitment to working with you in implementing the DWCP 2024-2028, with a focus on the following three priority areas:
1. Promoting decent work at the core of Samoa’s post-COVID economic recovery
and response to climate change through inclusive and resilient economic
growth and employment development.
2. Enhancing workers’ rights and strengthening comprehensive social protection.
3. Improving labour market governance, including strengthening the capacity of
workers’ and employers’ organizations to effectively participate in social
dialogue and influence policy and decision-making processes.
I would also like to take this opportunity to invite our fellow UN agencies and development partners in Samoa to carefully review this DWCP and explore areas of collaboration.
Furthermore, I wish to commend Samoa for its leadership on the global stage in ratifying and domesticating international labour standards. To date, Samoa has ratified 9 out of 10 core ILO conventions, with the most recent being:
1. Convention 187 (Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health),
and
2. Convention 190 (Violence and Harassment in the Workplace).
I sincerely thank the Government, Employers, and Workers’ Associations, particularly the SNTF and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour (MCIL), for leading the charge in not only ratifying these conventions but also ensuring their effective implementation through national law and practice.
As the Samoan proverb goes:
“O le tele o lima e mama ai se avega” – Many hands make the load lighter.
I am confident that Samoa will fully achieve the expected outcomes of the DWCP if we work together—pooling our strengths, expertise, and resources. Let us continue fostering strong partnerships to advance decent work, economic resilience, and social justice.
Apia, Samoa – February 20, 2025 – Samoa Airways vehemently denies recent defamatory remarks made by Mau Hunt on Facebook, which have caused harm to the reputation of the national airline, its CEO and its dedicated staff.
These false and baseless accusations have no grounds and are categorically rejected by the airline’s management.
In a series of social media posts, Mau Hunt falsely alleged that Samoa Airways CEO, Mr. Fauoo Taua FatuTielu, holds shares in Talofa Airways while serving in his role as the CEO of the national carrier.
These remarks are entirely unfounded and malicious, designed to undermine the leadership and integrity of Samoa Airways.
Mr. Tielu, along with all members of Samoa Airways’ management, operates with the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.
Furthermore, Hunt’s accusations against the airline’s pilots and management regarding drug testing are also false and defamatory. Samoa Airways maintains strict compliance with aviation safety regulations and conducts routine drug and alcohol testing in accordance with industry standards to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and staff.
These unwarranted claims about drug testing procedures are misleading and baseless.
Additionally, the claim that Samoa Airways has transported an “empty coffin with drugs” is utterly absurd and harmful. Such allegations are not only defamatory but completely without merit. Samoa Airways has always upheld the highest standards of safety, responsibility, and ethical conduct in all operations.
Samoa Airways strongly condemns these defamatory remarks, and we are particularly concerned that since these false claims have been publicly shared, they have the potential to mislead the public and harm the reputation of the airline.
Unfortunately, many individuals now believe these dangerous, unsubstantiated accusations, which could have serious consequences.
We urge those who have come across this misinformation to disregard it, as it has no basis in fact. Legal action is already underway, with the airline’s legal counsel having filed a formal case with the police.
These false claims will form part of the ongoing investigation.
We are confident that the truth will prevail and that those responsible for spreading this harmful misinformation will be held accountable.
We also urge the public to be cautious when consuming second-hand information, especially from individuals who have no credible sources or factual basis for their claims. The spread of such reckless and damaging information can cause significant harm and confusion.
We advise the public to rely on trusted, verified sources
rather than the uneducated opinions of those who seek to tarnish reputations without evidence.
Samoa Airways remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and excellent services to the people of Samoa.
The airline’s leadership and staff continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the national carrier represents the values of integrity, professionalism, and transparency.
The National University of Samoa (NUS) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), effective February 2025, to establish a collaborative framework for advancing Samoa’s agriculture and fisheries sectors.
This landmark agreement aims to promote research, development and training initiatives to improve food security, promote sustainable resource management and boost income-generating opportunities.
The MOU outlines a comprehensive scope of activities, including the exchange of researchers and students, joint research projects, technical assistance, and the co-sponsorship of seminars.
Both MAF and NUS will share capacity-building opportunities and collaborate on projects focusing on key areas such as crops, food security, climate change and fisheries. The agreement also ensures a collaborative approach to knowledge sharing and innovation.
This strategic partnership highlights a commitment to promoting a resilient agriculture and fisheries sector through enhanced collaboration between governmental and academic entities. It represents a significant step toward strengthening Samoa’s capacity to address challenges in food production, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Both partners anticipate that this MOU will catalyze impactful projects that will benefit the Samoan community and contribute to the nation’s sustainable growth.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Customs’ virtual reality training module wins international award (with photos) Hong Kong Customs’ virtual reality training module wins international award (with photos) *****************************************************************************************
Hong Kong Customs’ innovative training module “Cave Automatic Virtual Environment” (CAVE) received a silver award in Brandon Hall Group Technology Excellence Awards under the category “Best Advance in Augmented and Virtual Reality” at the end of last year. The accolade highlights the international recognition of the department’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance the efficiency of staff training. CAVE, launched in 2023, employs advanced virtual reality technology to create interactive training modules that simulate various customs clearance scenarios, providing customs trainees with an immersive training experience. This innovative training method allows trainees to learn basic customs clearance skills under a controlled environment and enables instructors to adjust the training modules according to the training progress and smuggling trends, thereby strengthening the trainees’ adaptability. CAVE has now been fully introduced to all induction and in-service training provided by Hong Kong Customs College, and a total of more than 600 officers have received the training. The Assistant Commissioner (Administration and Human Resource Development) of Customs, Ms Tam So-ying, today (March 4) said, “This award ascertains the fact that Customs’ application of virtual reality technology in competency training has reached international standards. We will continue to explore feasibility of extending the scope of applications of CAVE.” Brandon Hall Group Excellence Awards is a global award scheme that attracts institutions from around the world each year to compete for awards in different professional fields. Hong Kong Customs was the only institution in Asia to receive the “Best Advance in Augmented and Virtual Reality” award in 2024. This honour underscores the department’s dedication and achievements in promoting “Smart Customs”, serving as the Asia-Pacific training centre of the World Customs Organization and enhancing its enforcement capabilities to safeguard the country and Hong Kong.
Singapore, 4 March 2025 – Public hygiene forms the foundation of our well-being. The Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) designated 2024 as the Year of Public Hygiene to strengthen our sense of collective responsibility to one another, and for everyone to play a part in upkeeping good public hygiene practices. Accordingly, the National Environment Agency (NEA) stepped up efforts to improve public health outcomes in five key areas, namely:
a) Tackling cleanliness hotspots;
b) Tackling unhygienic public toilets;
c) Enhancing vector control;
d) Enhancing industry capability and leveraging technology; and
e) Rallying the community.
2 The year-long effort included adopting greater use of technology such as CCTVs to improve our surveillance and enforcement capabilities for littering and rat-related issues, expanding Project Wolbachia to reduce risk of dengue transmission, and adopting technologies to enhance cleaning operations. Enforcement for littering, rat-related lapses and public toilet offences were also intensified. The Public Toilets Taskforce also studied and recommended solutions to bring about cleaner public toilets.
3 More public hygiene activities were organised, and more residents stepped up to take ownership of their estates’ cleanliness. We will build on this momentum and work with the community to keep Singapore clean for SG60 and beyond.
Tackling cleanliness hotspots: 36 per cent reduction of litter count at hotspots
4 While the community is generally civic-minded, littering remains a concern due to the inconsiderate actions of some. In 2024, NEA conducted about 130 enforcement blitzes at littering and smoking hotspots compared to 21 blitzes in 2023. NEA also strengthened its camera surveillance capabilities and scaled capacity to conduct up to 1,000 CCTV deployments a year, compared to 250 in 2023. At hotspots, NEA strengthened enforcement presence to increase deterrence with visible patrols, standees and CCTVs [1] . NEA also partnered community stakeholders to seek their assistance in identifying egregious offenders captured by the CCTV footage.
5 A 36 per cent reduction in litter count has been observed at hotspots between May and December 2024 [2]. Four hotspots – Causeway Point, Chinatown Complex, Jurong Point and Vista Point – are on track to exit from the littering hotspot list. A total of about 1,900 fines were issued at hotspots islandwide between May and December 2024. Of these, more than 700 were for littering offences[3]. 30 Corrective Work Sessions were also conducted at these hotspots.
6 NEA will continue to address the littering situation through public education and enforcement. Residents can complement NEA’s efforts by providing feedback, including information on the identities of egregious offenders.
Enhancing vector control: Over 1,000 enforcement actions for rat-related lapses in 2024
7 Reducing the incidence of vector-borne diseases remains a priority. In 2024, NEA focused on upstream rat preventive measures such as promoting and enforcing proper refuse management practices and rectifying structural defects that may allow rats to access food easily.
8 Over 1,000 enforcement actions were jointly taken by NEA and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) against errant premises owners or occupiers, including operators of trade premises, shopping malls, and food establishments. This is almost double the 670 enforcement actions taken in 2023. Nearly half of the enforcements last year were for poor refuse management [4].
9 NEA also successfully trialled the use of thermal cameras for rat surveillance. This complements technological solutions such as passive infrared cameras and borescopes to enhance the monitoring and management of rat activities in Singapore’s urban environment. NEA will continue to work closely with stakeholders to keep the rat situation under control. [5]
Enhancing vector control: Project Wolbachia to benefit 800,000 households by 2026
10 On dengue, community vigilance and innovations like ProjectWolbachiahave helped us to avoid major surges in dengue cases in 2023 and 2024. TheAedes aegyptipopulation at ProjectWolbachiastudy sites has reduced by 80 to 90 per cent, and the risk of acquiring dengue has lowered by 75 per cent.
11 To reduce the risk of a major dengue outbreak further, NEA will expand ProjectWolbachiato benefit more residents. By 2026, the project will reach 800,000 households, or about 50 per cent of all households. NEA expanded ProjectWolbachiato Jurong East in February 2025, and Jurong West will soon see releases ofWolbachia-Aedesmosquitoes from April 2025. This year, NEA will trial the use ofWolbachia-Aedesmosquitoes at dengue clusters to supplement traditional control operations [6].
12 The production ofWolbachia-Aedesmosquitoes is currently met by two separate facilities managed by NEA, and Debug by Google [7]. Besides increasing production capacity at existing facilities, we will work with the industry to develop a third facility to supplement the overall capacity.
Enhancing industry capability and leveraging technology: Adoption of technology to enhance cleaning operations
13 NEA is adopting more technology to enhance cleaning operations. For example, NEA is working with service providers to trial and progressively deploy drain sensors, which can send alerts when the drains are filled with leaves, or when the water level is high [8]. Beyond drain sensors, NEA will also deploy four autonomous waterway cleaning machines across Singapore.
14 NEA has also collaborated with the National Parks Board (NParks) to trial the use of artificial intelligence that can help improve operational efficiency, such as by detecting overflowing litter bins and littered public areas. In addition, NEA will commence trials in 2025 on the deployment of autonomous pavement sweepers in selected parks.
Enhancing industry capability and leveraging technology: $90 million boost for Environmental Services Industry
15 In terms of enhancing industry capability and the use of technology, a $90 million boost for the Environmental Services Industry has been made available– the Environmental Services Productivity Solutions Grant. The grant application period is open till 31 March 2027 [9].
Tackling unhygienic public toilets: About 1,300 enforcement actions taken for public toilet offences
16 The Public Toilets Taskforce was formed last year to study and recommend solutions to make our public toilets cleaner [10]. In 2024, NEA and SFA stepped up inspections on public toilet cleanliness. Close to 19,000 inspections were carried out, with about 1,300 enforcement actions taken against premises owners/managers. We will continue to work with our partners and support ground-up efforts to achieve our goal of cleaner public toilets.
Rallying the community: More residents stepped up to take ownership of their estate cleanliness
17 Community ownership is vital to keeping public spaces clean. Under the Community Auditor Programme, residents at private residential estates are recruited to conduct audits on the performance of our cleaning service providers. The pool of resident volunteers has increased from 20 in 2020 to 169 in 2024, covering 99 private estates [11].
18 NEA is also on track to roll out the Alternate Roadside Parking Programme to 45 private estates by 2026, with 33 private estates on board so far. The programme, which facilitates the deployment of mechanical road sweepers, has resulted in 50 to 80 per cent of time savings compared to manual cleaning with brooms and trash bags [12].
Rallying the community: Over 1,750 community activities with 127,000 participants in the Year of Public Hygiene
19 Over 1,750 community activities involving 127,000 participants were conducted last year by NEA and the Public Hygiene Council. NEA expanded community activities with various corporate parties, NGOs and volunteer partners to inculcate a greater sense of common ownership of public spaces [13].
20 NEA further rolled out a series of “Behind-The-Scenes” learning journeys as part of Go Green SG and the Clean & Green Singapore Experiences programme, offering the public a closer look at the work of NEA officers conducting ground operations in littering enforcement, refuse management for effective vector control, and public cleaning performance audits. NEA will continue to partner our stakeholders and the community to keep Singapore clean.
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[1] CCTVs were strategically deployed at 13 hotspots that required sustained monitoring for extended periods of up to six months. This approach allowed NEA to gather data and detect offences.
[2] The total litter count at the hotspots was about 950 and 600 in May and December 2024, respectively.
[3] Other offences included smoking, urinating and defecation.
[4] In 2023, about 670 enforcement actions were taken against premises owners/occupiers for rat-related lapses, of which 80 were for poor refuse management practices.
[5] Visit link for more details on the thermal camera trial for rat surveillance and tightened enforcement from 1 Apr 2025.
[6] Visit link for more details on the expansion of Project Wolbachia.
[7] Verily’s contract with NEA was novated from Verily Life Sciences to Google Asia Pacific Pte Ltd w.e.f. 13 Dec 2024. Debug is the business function in both Verily and Google that fulfil the contract obligations to NEA.
[8] 20 units of the latest version with improved functions such as in-built camera for enhanced situational awareness have been deployed for operational testing as of 9 Jan 2025.
[9] Details on Environmental Services Productivity Solutions Grant are available in Annex A and here.
[10] Refer to MSE’s media release for more details.
[11] The Community Auditor management programme commenced in September 2020, as NEA recognised the effectiveness of residents who are willing to step forward as ‘local cleanliness auditors’ of their estates.
[12] Details on Alternate Roadside Parking Programme are available in Annex B.
[13] Details on Rallying the Community are available in Annex C.
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A spokesperson for the upcoming 2025 session of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee reaffirmed China’s commitment to open wider to the world at a press conference Monday.
Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee, speaks at a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, March 3, 2025. [Photo by Zheng Liang/China.org.cn] “Economic globalization is an objective requirement for the development of social productive forces, a natural outcome of technological progress and a crucial path for the advancement of human society,” spokesperson Liu Jieyi told reporters. “It is an irreversible trend of our times. China firmly stands on the right side of history, and its doors will only open wider to the world.” According to Liu, over the past year, China has continued to serve as the largest engine of global economic growth, accelerating the development of a new system for a higher-level open economy. It has maintained its position as the world’s largest trader in goods and second-largest import market. Significant progress has been made in the high-quality joint development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), while international events such as the China International Import Expo have provided a broad platform for promoting global economic cooperation. “We have focused on advancing inclusive and equitable economic globalization, championing the spirit of ‘shared responsibility and mutual benefit’ and ‘harmonious coexistence,’ actively participated in global economic governance, and demonstrated the responsibility of a major country in driving global development,” he said. Liu stressed that China will continue to improve high-level opening up mechanisms, expand institutional openness, deepen reforms in foreign investment and outbound investment systems, optimize regional opening up layouts, refine BRI joint development mechanisms, and implement broader, wider and deeper opening up. He also stated that China will promote implementation of the Global Development Initiative and advance economic globalization toward a more open, inclusive, balanced and universally beneficial direction. The spokesperson then introduced the CPPCC’s work over the past year, including a focus on expanding institutional openness, optimizing regional opening up layouts, and promoting high-quality BRI development through extensive consultations. It organized thematic and biweekly forums on high-level opening up and free trade zone upgrades, conducted BRI core area inspections, and provided insights to advance opening up. The CPPCC also oversaw the implementation of key opening up measures in the 14th Five-Year Plan, offering targeted recommendations. Members proposed valuable suggestions on improving free trade zone business environments, risk control, leveraging the role of Hong Kong and Macao in building a new system for a higher-level open economy, and advancing service trade innovation and cross-border data flows. Recommendations such as easing foreign investment restrictions in medical institutions and expanding pilot programs for opening up value-added telecommunications services were adopted by relevant government departments and translated into specific policies and measures, he revealed. “We will, as always, firmly support and participate in economic globalization, unwaveringly expand opening up, and work with countries around the world to share opportunities, create prosperity and jointly promote the building of an open world economy,” Liu said. The spokesperson also hailed China’s cultural charm, which attracted global audiences and tourists during the recent Spring Festival. He noted examples such as record-breaking box office earnings and movie attendance, the cross-border integration of traditional culture and high-tech leading to a series of hit products, and the visa-free transit policy fueling a surge in travel to China, with inbound tourists increasing by 150% year on year and reaching a historic high. “Following the Spring Festival’s inclusion on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, China now has 44 UNESCO-listed heritage projects, the most globally, showcasing the immense charm of its outstanding traditional culture,” he said, adding that this culture embodies the deepest spiritual pursuits and unique identity of the Chinese nation, serving as invaluable nourishment for its continuous growth and development. He added that the CPPCC, deeply focused on China’s outstanding traditional culture, has promoted its creative transformation and innovative development. Last year, CPPCC members visited Shandong, Shanxi, Henan and other provinces, conducting research at museums, heritage sites and institutions, engaging with cultural workers, and proposing suggestions to revitalize cultural heritage. They also held consultations on cultural heritage protection and modern cultural industry development, with proposals adopted by relevant departments. The annual session of China’s top political advisory body opened on March 4 in Beijing and will run until March 10. During the session, national political advisors will hear and deliberate reports, sit in on the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress, discuss key documents including the government work report, and participate in plenary meetings and group consultations.
Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –
The National University of Management and the Europe and Asia Broadcasting Center of the People’s Republic of China Foreign Language Publication and Distribution Administration (Renmin Huabao Publishing House) organized a round table on “High-quality Development of China’s Economy” and the presentation of the 4th volume of the book “Xi Jinping on Public Administration” in Russian.
The event is timed to coincide with the opening of the 3rd session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) on March 5, 2025 in Beijing.
The event was moderated by Hu Zhentao, head of the representative office of Renmin Huabao Publishing House in Moscow.
The speakers were: – Fanis Sharipov, Director of the Center for Socio-Economic and Political Research of China at the National University of Management; – Anastasia Pavlova, partner of the Russian-Chinese Committee of Friendship, Peace and Development; – Ekaterina Zaklyazminskaya, leading research fellow at the Center for World Politics and Strategic Analysis, member of the Council of Young Scientists at the Institute of Strategic Analysis of the Russian Academy of Sciences; – Yulia Manuilova, senior lecturer at the Department of Global Studies at the Faculty of Global Processes at Moscow State University.
The work was also attended by 2nd year students of the State University of Management, studying in the program “International Manufacturing Business”: Yulia Levchenko, Farida Alakaeva, Egor Gavrilyuk, Irina Afanasova, Yulia Kolontsova.
Fanis Sharipov began his speech by assessing the 4th volume of the book “Xi Jinping on Public Administration” in Russian. This volume includes the most important works of Xi Jinping for the period from February 3, 2020 to May 10, 2022, a total of 109 reports, talks, speeches, congratulatory letters and other works. It should be noted that during this period, the COVID-19 pandemic was raging, and enormous efforts were spent on organizing the fight against this terrible epidemic. “Development of the digital economy is a strategic choice that allows us to seize the opportunities of a new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation,” Xi Jinping emphasized.
Next, moving on to the topic of “High-quality development of the Chinese economy”, Fanis Sharipov noted that on January 27, a Chinese startup triggered a collapse in the value of shares of American IT companies; by the end of the week, the NASDAQ high-tech company index had lost 3.5%, which in monetary terms amounts to almost a trillion US dollars. For experts, the success of Chinese research in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) is the result of China’s systematic, long-term efforts in this area, which has been repeatedly noted in scientific articles and conference abstracts. The State Council of the PRC formulated a detailed plan for the modern development of new-generation AI in July 2017. It directly stated the intention to turn AI into the main driving force of industrial modernization and economic transformation, strengthening national defense, internal and external security, education, and medicine by 2025. It also stated the intention to turn China into a world leader in AI by 2030. It was planned to produce products and services using AI by the end of 2020 in the amount of 150 billion yuan, by 2025 – 400 billion yuan, by 2030 – about 1 trillion yuan. And China’s expenditure on scientific research in 2025 will reach 3.76 trillion yuan (over 580 billion dollars).
In conclusion, the Round Table participants discussed a very diverse agenda for Russian-Chinese cooperation in 2025.
Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 03/04/2025
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Expansion of enhanced Climate Friendly Household Programme
To encourage more households to take climate action, NEA and PUB will further enhance the Climate Friendly Households Programme.
From 15 Apr 2025, eligible HDB households will receive an additional $100 in Climate Vouchers, on top of the existing $300 offered in 2024. The programme will also be expanded to include Singapore Citizen households living in private residential properties. This means that eligible HDB and private households can claim a total of $400 worth of Climate Vouchers, which are valid until 31 Dec 2027.
By switching to more resource efficient appliances and fittings, households can reduce their energy and/or water consumption, lower their utility bills, and help to tackle climate change.
$25 million Weather Science Research Programme to enhance Singapore’s weather prediction capabilities
A new Weather Science Research Programme (WSRP) has been launched to enhance Singapore’s ability to understand and predict our tropical urban weather, including extreme weather arising from climate change.
The new programme aims to build weather science capability in the national research ecosystem. The Centre for Climate Research Singapore will collaborate with local research institutions to incorporate the latest scientific and technological developments such as Artificial Intelligence. A key initiative under the WSRP is to create a detailed historical weather re-analysis over recent decades for Southeast Asia – the first of its kind in the region.
Funded under the Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2025 Plan, the WSRP is now open for research proposals from local research institutions.
The Alliance for Action on Packaging Waste Reduction for the E-commerce Sector has published a set of Guidelines on Sustainable E-commerce Packaging.
Apart from a list of 3R solutions tailored to various types of e-commerce packaging, the Guidelines also provide operating models for e-commerce marketplaces to promote sustainable packaging to consumers, and drive awareness and responsibilities among suppliers.
Also included in the Guidelines is a scorecard that company leaders can use to assess the maturity of their management practices in relation to sustainable packaging, and pinpoint areas for improvement.
Up to $1 billion to upgrade hawker centres and build 5 new hawker centres
Over the next 20 to 30 years, MSE and NEA will invest up to $1 billion to upgrade existing hawker centres and build another 5 new hawker centres.
Through the Hawker Centre Upgrading Programme 2.0, hawker centre infrastructure will be upgraded to be more vibrant, accessible, with climate-resilient community spaces. Hawkers can also look forward to a more conducive work environment.
To better serve residents, 5 additional new hawker centres will be built. 2 new hawker centres will also open at Bukit Batok West and Punggol Coast.
To celebrate SG60 and the 5th anniversary of the inscription of Singapore’s Hawker Culture on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, cooked food and market stallholders across all hawker centres and markets managed by the Government or Government-appointed operators will receive a one-off rental support of $600 per stall.
Singapore, 4 March 2025 – The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS), under the National Environment Agency (NEA), has launched a $25 million Weather Science Research Programme (WSRP). The new programme aims to enhance Singapore’s ability to understand and predict our tropical urban weather, including extreme weather arising from climate change. The WSRP, funded under the Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2025 Plan, is now open for research proposals from local research institutions.
2 Climate change poses significant challenges for Singapore and the wider Southeast Asian region. Singapore’s Third National Climate Change Study, led by the Centre for Climate Research Singapore (CCRS) [1] under MSS, projects higher temperatures, more extreme wet and dry periods, and rising mean sea levels by the end of the century. Singapore is located in the deep-tropics where weather prediction is particularly challenging, due to the complexity of dominant local weather processes like thunderstorms and fine-scale interactions with local features such as coasts and the urban landscape. Recent advancements in weather research and technology, such as high-resolution modelling, artificial intelligence and enhanced remote-sensing observational networks, present opportunities to tackle the challenges of tropical local weather prediction.
3 Through the new programme, MSS aims to build weather science capability in the national research ecosystem. CCRS will work with Institutes of Higher Learning and Research Institutes to improve weather prediction for Singapore and the region by incorporating the latest scientific and technological developments in this area.
4 For example, researchers will use artificial intelligence (AI) to combine data from various sources, potentially enhancing predictions of heavy rainfall and strong winds. The programme will also develop advanced weather prediction systems that consider how local weather is affected by ocean and land conditions, which could improve our ability to forecast phenomena like Sumatra squalls. Scientists will also investigate new ways of incorporating weather observations, such as those from polar-orbiting environmental satellites and ground-based radars, for more accurate and timely weather forecasts.
5 A key initiative under the new programme is to create a detailed historical weather re-analysis over recent decades for Southeast Asia – the first of its kind in the region. This comprehensive dataset will offer valuable insights into past weather patterns and provide a valuable dataset to leverage AI for local weather prediction. WSRP projects are expected to be awarded in the second half of 2025.
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[1] CCRS is a research centre under MSS and part of NEA. It was officially launched in March 2013, with the vision to be a world leading centre in tropical climate and weather research focusing on the Southeast Asia region.
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