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Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI: Tyton Partners Releases 2025 Time for Class Report: Institutions Rebalance Human Connection and Digital Innovation in Higher Ed

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tyton Partners, the leading strategy consulting and investment banking firm focused on education, today released Time for Class 2025: Empowering Educators, Engaging Students. Developed with generous support from the Gates Foundation and McGraw Hill Education, with additional contributions from D2L. This year’s report explores how institutions, instructors, and students are reimagining teaching and learning amid rising adoption of generative AI, evolving student expectations, and ongoing engagement challenges. 

    Based on responses from more than 3,300 students, instructors, and administrators at over 900 U.S. colleges and universities, Time for Class 2025 offers an in-depth view of digital learning in introductory and developmental courses – critical gateways to student success and persistence. 

    “Institutions recognize that digital tools expand access to learning; now, they’re increasingly focused on how to thoughtfully integrate these tools as true enablers of student success, supporting not just learning but also the relationships and experiences that drive meaningful outcomes for students,” said Catherine Shaw, Managing Director at Tyton Partners and lead author of the report. “Our research shows students and instructors want the same thing: flexibility and support, paired with human connection in the classroom.” 

    Key findings include: 

    • 5 years post-COVID-19 pandemic, modality preferences are re-norming back to face-to-face: 64% of instructors now prefer in-person teaching, up from 55% in 2023. Student preferences are shifting similarly, with 33% preferring in-person and 29% hybrid courses. 
    • Platforms must support success, not just content: Faculty who view digital tools as enablers of student success report greater satisfaction and better access to key sentiment data like student confidence or frustration with coursework. 
    • Students need more support: 48% of instructors believe academic anxiety is a top student concern. Students report low motivation and poor study habits as persistent challenges. 
    • Data gaps persist: Instructors want more insight into student sentiment and engagement, but still rely mostly on personal observations, limiting timely interventions. 
    • AI brings both value and strain: 42% of students, 30% of instructors, and 40% of administrators use generative AI tools daily or weekly. Daily users see real benefits—36% of faculty using AI daily report reduced workloads—while less frequent users say monitoring for improper AI use increases their workload. 

    “This is a pivotal and potentially existential moment for higher education institutions,” added Hadley Dorn, Principal at Tyton Partners and co-author. “Institutions and solution providers must ensure platforms empower educators with the insights and scaffolded AI experiences needed to engage today’s students.” 

    Time for Class 2025 provides actionable recommendations for institutional leaders, instructors, and solution providers, with a focus on using generative AI responsibly, improving access to student-level data, and supporting student success through intentional platform design and training. 

    Read Time for Class 2025 here.

    Media Contact
    Zoe Wright-Neil
    Director of Marketing and Business Development
    zwrightneil@tytonpartners.com
    Tyton Partners

    About Tyton Partners 
    Tyton Partners is the leading provider of strategy consulting and investment banking services to the global knowledge and information services sector. With offices in Boston and New York City, the firm has an experienced team of bankers and consultants who deliver a unique spectrum of services from mergers and acquisitions and capital markets access to strategy development that helps companies, organizations, and investors navigate the complexities of the education, media, and information markets. Tyton Partners leverages a deep foundation of transactional and advisory experience and an unparalleled level of global relationships to make its clients’ aspirations a reality and to catalyze innovation in the sector. Learn more at tytonpartners.com. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Development Bank cuts sod for construction of permanent Country Office, cementing over five-decades of partnership with Zambia

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    • Permanent office strengthens Bank’s partnership with Zambia.
    • African Development Bank has financed and facilitated major projects at country and continent level to support regional integration – Finance Minister Musokotwane 

    The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) commenced construction of its permanent country office in Lusaka on Friday, marking a transformative milestone in the institution’s 54-year partnership with Zambia.

    Since establishing its temporary country office in 2007 with just four staff members, the African Development Bank’s presence in Zambia has grown to 20 permanent staff. The Bank’s cumulative investment in Zambia now stands at $2.7 billion across multiple sectors, with a current active portfolio worth nearly $1 billion.

    The groundbreaking event was attended by Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane; African Development Bank’s Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery, Nnenna Nwabufo; the Bank’s Director of Real Estate Management, Procurement and General Services, Gail Meakin, as well as other senior government officials, members of the diplomatic community, other development partners, and private sector chief executive officers.

    The new office design incorporates cutting-edge sustainability features and wellness-focused design. It will house expanded operations while contributing to Zambia’s economic growth through job creation and business stimulation during both construction and operation. The building is expected to be completed by 2027. It will be a smart building with conferencing and staff wellness facilities, with low energy consumption, a wastewater recycling system, and large green spaces.

    Dr. Musokotwane emphasized the significance of a permanent office. “This occasion is not just ceremonial – it’s a vote of confidence in our country, our government, and our people. It recognizes Zambia’s commitment to forge a better future for Africa.”

    The Minister thanked the African Development Bank for providing much-needed financial support during Zambia’s development journey and conveyed the President of Zambia’s support for the Bank’s decision to establish a permanent office building and continued development work in the country.

    “The African Development Bank’s support has produced many positive results in sectors such as transport, agriculture, water and sanitation, and energy.  This shows the Bank’s commitment to deliver on its vision for the African continent,” the Minister said. “AfDB’s support to Zambia has been instrumental in supporting the country’s development goals espoused in the national development plans, which emphasize, among others, the need to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation in all the sectors of the economy.”

    Musokotwane listed some of the Bank’s transformative work in Zambia, singling out the Kazungula Bridge Project (https://apo-opa.co/4jORboP), for special commendation.

     “We also wish to take this opportunity to commend the Bank for the support rendered to Africa. Through the Bank, major projects have been implemented both at country and continent level to support regional integration in Africa. Key among the projects implemented is the Kazungula bridge project, which is a major infrastructure initiative that involves constructing a road and rail bridge connecting Zambia and Botswana.”

    Other notable projects in Zambia include the Integrated Small Towns Water and Sanitation project, the Lusaka Sanitation Programme, Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Project, and the Multi-Purpose Small Dams Project.

    Musokotwane urged the Bank to consider expanded support for regional drought recovery efforts, emphasizing the need for building economic resilience across the region. The Southern Africa region is still recovering from the devastating droughts of 2023-2024.

    Nwabufo thanked the Government of Zambia for providing the prime land within Lusaka for the construction of the Bank’s country office.

    “This new office demonstrates our continued commitment to strengthening our partnership with Zambia. We are here to stay – after all, the African Development Bank is your Bank,” said Bank Vice President Nwabufo.

    She reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment, announcing a $250 million commitment to the transformative Lobito Corridor Development Project (http://apo-opa.co/4kY4CU7). The Lobito Corridor is a major economic route connecting the port of Lobito in Angola to the Katanga province in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Copperbelt in Zambia. It encompasses the construction of the Zambia-Angola railway, the rehabilitation of the DRC segment of the railway with the establishment of a public-private partnership, and the upgrading and operationalisation of the Angolan railway.

    The African Development Bank’s investments in Zambia continue to deliver impactful results:

    • The 923-meter-long Kazungula Bridge (https://apo-opa.co/44an9XL) project – supported by the African Development Bank Group with a US$ 81.6 million investment – has revolutionized cross-border trade, reducing transit times from 2.5 days to just half a day.
    • The Chinsali-Nakonde road rehabilitation and Nacala Road Corridor projects have similarly enhanced regional connectivity.
    • National water access has increased from 69% to 72% between 2015-2022, while sanitation coverage rose from 50% to 58%, providing 1.9 million additional people with improved water access.
    • Through the Bank’s agriculture sector, over 1.5 million households have seen their average annual incomes surge from US$320 in 2017 to US$1,300 in 2022. Agricultural productivity has soared, with maize production increasing from 2.9 million tonnes to 3.9 million tonnes and aquaculture output expanding from 20,000 tonnes to 76,000 Tonnes. The Bank’s interventions in the sector have generated approximately 500,000 jobs.
    • Following the Bank’s intervention in the social sector, including the $30 million Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Project, SME productivity and competitiveness have improved, leading to increased job creation. Eight industrial yards have been constructed in Chipata, Kasama, Mongu, Ndola, Solwezi, Lusaka, Mansa, and Kitwe, with the capacity to accommodate 172 SMEs across various light manufacturing sub-sectors.

    The African Development Bank’s 2024-2029 Country Strategy Paper for Zambia focuses on two key priorities: enhancing private sector development through infrastructure investments and promoting agricultural value chains to support youth and women’s employment. This will guide the Banks’ interventions in Zambia for the stated period.

    African Development Bank Country Manager for Zambia, Olaniyi Durowoju, noted that “the office would serve as a modern and efficient workspace, and a beacon of innovation and a vibrant hub for partnerships, and collaboration with the Bank’s stakeholders, enabling us better to serve our clients and the people of Zambia”.

    – on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Additional Photos: https://apo-opa.co/4mYbuCR

    Media contact:
    Emeka Anuforo,
    Communication and External Relations Department,
    media@afdb.org

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Millions of users around the world choose ALR Miner to mine easily and make stable money every day!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —
    In today’s era of increasing economic fluctuations and financial difficulties, more and more users are beginning to choose cloud mining, a new way of simple, safe and stable income. Among many platforms, ALR Miner, which has been operating stably for more than 7 years and has millions of users worldwide, is becoming the first choice for the public.

    No equipment, no graphics card burning, no risk, new users will receive $12 USD experience bonus when they register, and they can get stable income every day with just a few clicks!

    Why are users all over the world using ALR Miner?
    ✅ Stable operation for 7 years, the platform is legal and compliant

    ✅ Register and get $12 experience bonus, you can experience making money without investment

    ✅ Stable daily income and transparent settlement

    ✅ Support flexible investment plans, suitable for different budgets

    ✅ More than 5 million users, covering many countries around the world

    ✅ Security system encryption protection, fast and worry-free fund arrival

    ALR Miner is committed to making it easy for every user to own their own “digital mining machine”, and even if they don’t understand blockchain, they can get started without obstacles, and achieve real passive income from the first day

    Recommended mining machine projects (concise version)
    $100 / 2-day mining plan
    Investment amount: $100

    Period: 2 days

    Daily net income: $3.30

    Total income: $106.60
    Suitable for novices to try, short-term results!

    $500 / 5-day mining plan
    Investment amount: $500

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    Total income: $531.50
    High cost performance, short-term stable return!

    Suitable for users who pursue higher returns, stable returns and low risks!

    Safety and compliance, real mining, user trust first
    ALR Miner has a strict technical guarantee system, all data communications are encrypted with SSL, platform assets are independently managed, and fast withdrawals are supported. Users can view revenue records and order details at any time, truly achieving platform transparency, safe operation, and clear revenue.

    At the same time, the platform team has focused on the construction of mining field technology for many years, and the backend is equipped with real mining machines and computing power support. All revenue is paid on time without delay.

    New users will receive $12 USD when they register, and they can start making money without recharging!
    Not sure if it is real? It doesn’t matter. ALR Miner provides every new user with $12 to experience the novice project, zero threshold to participate in the mining plan, no investment, no risk to experience real revenue, and let you see the return within 24 hours.

    Conclusion: Make money easy, start with ALR Miner
    In ALR Miner, everyone can easily start mining, without worrying about equipment or market fluctuations. Just choose a suitable plan, leave the rest to the platform, and wait for the income to arrive every day.

    Sign up now, get $12 trial money, and start mining and making money 24 hours a day!
    ALR Miner, let cloud mining become your long-term and stable source of income!

     Media Contact: 
    Name: Olivia Miller 
    Email: info@alrminer.com 
    Address: Singleton Court Business Park, Wonastow Road, Monmouth, Monmouthshire, United Kingdom, NP25 5JA 
    Website: https://alrminer.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Craig, Levin Reintroduce Legislation to Require Carbon Monoxide Detectors in Hotel Rooms and Short-Term Rentals

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig (MN-02) and Mike Levin (CA-49) reintroduced legislation to require that carbon monoxide detectors be installed in every hotel and motel room and short-term rental across the country.

    Rep. Craig originally introduced the Safe Stay Act in 2020 after hearing the story of Minnesotan Leslie Lienemann. While travelling for a hockey tournament, Leslie and her son were hospitalized with serious illnesses due to near-fatal carbon monoxide levels being left undetected in their hotel room.

    “We have the tools to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and save lives – and we should be using them,” said Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02). “I first introduced this legislation to require carbon monoxide detectors be installed in every hotel and motel room after hearing tragic stories like the Lienemanns’. It’s time to get this common-sense bill signed into law before another American family has to suffer from the impacts of carbon monoxide poisoning.” 

    “Every year, too many families fall victim to the silent killer of carbon monoxide,” said Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49). “That includes John Heathco, the son of my constituents, Chuck and Jill Heathco, who lost his life to a preventable carbon monoxide leak while on vacation. Their story is a powerful reminder that we have the tools to prevent these tragedies, but we must use them. We must turn this tragedy into legislation to prevent incidents like John’s from happening again.”

    The Minnesota legislature passed similar legislation to require carbon monoxide in hotels, motels and lodges, which went into effect on August 1, 2024.

    The bill is endorsed by the National Hockey League, Consumer Federation of America, the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association, the Jenkins Foundation, the Lienemann Family and the John Wesley Heathco Legacy Foundation.  

    “My son and I suffer life-long physical and emotional effects of carbon monoxide poisoning because there was no carbon monoxide alarm in our hotel room. Carbon monoxide is undetectable without a CO alarm. Even as our poisoning symptoms worsened, nothing warned us to escape the dangerous level of poison gas. Luckily, we went to the emergency room before our exposure became fatal. Other families lose their loved ones needlessly,” said Leslie Lienemann. “We urge Congress to take the only effective action to prevent CO injury and death by requiring hotels to install CO detectors. Thank you, Rep. Craig, for protecting families as they travel. No family should suffer death or injury from carbon monoxide for lack of a CO alarm.”    

    “No other family should have to endure the pain we have experienced by losing Johnny,” said Jill Heathco, the mother of John Heathco. “He died from something that could have been prevented, and our family’s mission going forward is to do everything we can so no other traveler loses their life to carbon monoxide poisoning. This legislation is a critical step in that mission because it will require hotels to do the bare minimum to protect their guests and staff from this deadly gas by installing CO detectors. We appreciate that Representative Craig and Representative Levin have introduced this bill, and we urge all members of Congress to support it because it’s needed, it’s commonsense, and it will save lives.”  

    You can read the full text of the Stay Safe Act here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 20,000 malicious IPs and domains taken down in INTERPOL infostealer crackdown

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    11 June 2025

    SINGAPORE – More than 20,000 malicious IP addresses or domains linked to information stealers have been taken down in an INTERPOL-coordinated operation against cybercriminal infrastructure.

    During Operation Secure (January – April 2025) law enforcement agencies from 26 countries worked to locate servers, map physical networks and execute targeted takedowns.

    Ahead of the operation, INTERPOL cooperated with private-sector partners Group-IB, Kaspersky and Trend Micro to produce Cyber Activity Reports, sharing critical intelligence with cyber teams across Asia. These coordinated efforts resulted in the takedown of 79 per cent of identified suspicious IP addresses.

    Participating countries reported the seizure of 41 servers and over 100 GB of data, as well as the arrest of 32 suspects linked to illegal cyber activities.

    What are infostealers?

    Infostealer malware is a primary tool for gaining unauthorized access to organizational networks. This type of malicious software extracts sensitive data from infected devices, often referred to as bots. The stolen information typically includes browser credentials, passwords, cookies, credit card details and cryptocurrency wallet data.

    Additionally, logs harvested by infostealers are increasingly traded on the cybercriminal underground and are frequently used as a gateway for further attacks. These logs often enable initial access for ransomware deployments, data breaches, and cyber-enabled fraud schemes such as Business Email Compromise (BEC).

    Following the operation, authorities notified over 216,000 victims and potential victims so they could take immediate action – such as changing passwords, freezing accounts, or removing unauthorized access.

    Operational highlights

    Vietnamese police arrested 18 suspects, seizing devices from their homes and workplaces. The group’s leader was found with over VND 300 million (USD 11,500) in cash, SIM cards and business registration documents, pointing to a scheme to open and sell corporate accounts.

    As part of their respective enforcement efforts under Operation Secure, house raids were carried out by authorities in Sri Lanka and Nauru. These actions led to the arrest of 14 individuals – 12 in Sri Lanka and two in Nauru – as well as the identification of 40 victims.

    The Hong Kong Police analysed over 1,700 pieces of intelligence provided by INTERPOL and identified 117 command-and-control servers hosted across 89 internet service providers. These servers were used by cybercriminals as central hubs to launch and manage malicious campaigns, including phishing, online fraud and social media scams.

    Neal Jetton, INTERPOL’s Director of Cybercrime, said:

    “INTERPOL continues to support practical, collaborative action against global cyber threats. Operation Secure has once again shown the power of intelligence sharing in disrupting malicious infrastructure and preventing large-scale harm to both individuals and businesses.”

    Notes to editors

    Operation Secure is a regional initiative organized under the Asia and South Pacific Joint Operations Against Cybercrime (ASPJOC) Project.

    Participating countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Fiji, Hong Kong (China), India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Korea (Rep of), Laos, Macau (China), Malaysia, Maldives, Nauru, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Vanuatu, Vietnam.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pallone, Neal, Wyden Release Latest CBO Estimates Showing 16 Million People Will Become Uninsured from Republican Health Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

    16 Million Will Become Uninsured Because of Republican Legislation, Including Refusal to Extend Health Care Tax Credits

    House Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), House Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA), and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR) released a statement following a new analysis from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) showing 16 million people will lose coverage from the Republican reconciliation plan, including their failure to extend premium tax credits that Americans use to buy affordable health insurance. 

    “The Republican health agenda is all about making it harder to get health care,” the leaders said. “Every step of the way, this abomination of a bill creates barriers and mazes designed to demoralize and discourage Americans as they try to get affordable health care. The results of this cruel system are clear: millions will lose coverage, health care costs will go up for all Americans, and tens of thousands will die. 

    “Everybody will be affected by the disastrous Republican bill. Despite Republican propaganda, Americans need to know that the bill’s thicket of red tape and increased out-of-pocket costs in Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act will fall especially hard on working families, including those with children, caregivers, Americans with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses. Republicans continue to repeat lies about the devastating harms of this bill, because without those lies the only conclusion that can be reached is that this bill is morally bankrupt. 

    “Republicans must be held responsible for the consequences of not extending health care tax credits that middle class Americans use to buy health insurance on their own. Their bill extends hundreds of tax policies that expire at the end of the year. The omission of this policy will cause millions of Americans to lose their health insurance and will raise premiums on 24 million Americans. The Republican failure to stop this premium spike is a policy choice, and it needs to be recognized as such. Between this choice and other harmful policies in their legislation, Republicans are effectively dismantling the Affordable Care Act. Americans do not want to go back to the days where health care was reserved for the healthy and the wealthy, where insurance companies had free rein to discriminate against sicker or older Americans.”

    The letter from CBO can be found here.

    CBO’s score of H.R. 1 can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pallone Pushes for Stronger Consumer Protections from Robocalls, Robotexts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

    Warns that Republicans’ reconciliation bill, AI loopholes are undermining fight against scams

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, warned today that New Jersey residents remain vulnerable to scams perpetrated through robocalls and robotexts despite progress in passing tough federal protections against robocalls.

    At an Energy and Commerce subcommittee hearing, Pallone called for stronger laws to combat the evolving tactics scammers now use, including artificial intelligence (AI) and spoofing. He also slammed Republican efforts to defund key consumer protection agencies that enforce robocall and robotext laws.

    “New Jerseyans know all too well how relentless and dangerous these robocalls and robotexts have become,” Pallone said. “They target seniors, small businesses, and families across our state – trying to steal personal information and hard-earned money. I’ve led this fight in Congress for years, and it’s clear we need to do more in the face of AI.”

    Pallone authored the landmark TRACED Act, signed into law in 2019, which strengthened the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) authority to crack down on illegal robocalls. It also required phone carriers to implement call authentication technology and expanded enforcement tools.

    But despite that progress, scammers are adapting fast. Americans received more than 52 billion robocalls in 2024—nearly 200 calls per adult—and robotext scams are rapidly increasing, targeting consumers with fraudulent links and fake messages.

    “In New Jersey, seniors are particularly at risk from these scams – phony Medicare calls, texts claiming to be from grandchildren in distress, or fake law enforcement threats. It’s infuriating, and we have to stay ahead of the scammers,” Pallone said.

    Pallone is pushing to update the TRACED Act to cover robotexts, impose additional penalties against robocalls and texts that use AI to trick consumers, and ensure consumers can access robocall-blocking technology at no extra cost. But he warned that Republican efforts to slash funding for the FCC and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) threaten to roll back enforcement – right as AI-powered scams surge.

    He also criticized House Republicans for supporting a 10-year moratorium on state enforcement of state AI laws, which would block adoption of innovative efforts by New Jersey and other states to combat illegal robocalls and robotexts.

    “We can’t allow Big Tech loopholes and budget cuts by Republicans and the Trump Administration to undermine the fight against scams. New Jerseyans deserve real protection and I’m going to keep leading this fight,” Pallone said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pallone Leads New Bill to Block RFK Jr.’s Anti-Vaccine Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

    Legislation Would Take Politics Out of Medicine and Hold Reckless Leaders Accountable

    Today, Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA) introduced the Family Vaccine Protection Act to remove politics from the life-saving immunization schedule, hold Trump Administration officials accountable, and protect children and expectant mothers from vaccine-preventable diseases.

    “Secretary Kennedy is governing by conspiracy theory and putting the health of our children at risk,” said Pallone. “After just a few months in office, he’s already broken the promise he made during his Senate confirmation hearing to not interfere with the lifesaving childhood vaccine schedule. He’s simultaneously presided over the largest measles outbreak in decades while actively undermining vaccination efforts for COVID-19, measles, polio, and the flu—especially for pregnant women and the tiniest infants, two of the highest risk populations. Enough is enough—it’s time to take politics out of medicine and ensure all families have access to affordable life-saving vaccines. Dr. Schrier and I are introducing this legislation to keep Secretary Kennedy’s conspiracy theories out of the doctor’s office and to protect moms and their kids.”

    “Our current Secretary of Health and Human Services continues to undermine science and peddle conspiracy theories. This nation’s physicians and public health system have relied upon the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) for 61 years to evaluate scientific evidence, ask questions, and ultimately make a determination about whether to recommend a vaccine and for whom. This bill ensures that physicians and other scientific experts are the ones who evaluate those studies and make those decisions, as has always been the case. Recent efforts to undermine the ACIP by pressuring physicians like Dr. Lakshmi Panagiotakopoulos to parrot RFK, Jr. talking points have unfortunately made this bill necessary,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “I will continue to stand up for scientific integrity and fight RFK Jr. ‘s peddling of conspiracy theories.”

    The Family Vaccine Protection Act comes on the heels of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. ’s unilateral withdrawal of COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for children and pregnant women. This reckless decision—circumventing science-based approval—begins a slippery slope toward a sicker America where Kennedy alone decides what’s best for American children.

    For months, RFK, Jr. ’s HHS and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have ignored science-based recommendations by the independent Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). In April, ACIP voted unanimously to expand its respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine recommendation and to provide a meningococcal vaccine to healthy teens and college-aged kids—but Kennedy ignored these recommendations. These actions are setting a dangerous precedent and jeopardizing access through critical programs like the Vaccines for Children program.

    Secretary Kennedy is actively backtracking on his own promise in November 2024 that he wouldn’t “take away anybody’s vaccines” and contradicting his own Food and Drug Administration’s framework. His brazen undermining of ACIP’s independence and persistent spreading of anti-vaccine conspiracy theories threatens decades of public health progress—and will put the lives of pregnant women and unvaccinated infants at risk. 

    The Family Vaccine Protection Act protects access to affordable vaccines by: 

    Codifying current practices of a rigorous, science-based system for recommending vaccines:

    • This bill sets a timeline for new vaccine consideration by ACIP and requires that both the CDC Director and HHS Secretary adopt such recommendations if supported by a preponderance of scientific evidence.

    Strengthening the independence of the Advisory Committee:

    • This bill writes the role of ACIP into statute and specifies its structure, its membership selection processes, meeting frequency, and expertise requirements—protecting it from dissolution or undue interference by the HHS Secretary.

    Keeping politics out of medicine by ensuring the Secretary cannot unilaterally make or withdraw vaccine recommendations contrary to the advice of scientific experts:

    • This bill requires the HHS Secretary to adopt the official vaccine decision as set by ACIP—and if the Secretary chooses to depart from an ACIP recommendation, it requires the Secretary to publish the basis for the agency action, including an explanation as to how the action is supported by the best available, peer-reviewed scientific evidence.

    Establishing guardrails to ensure vaccines remain accessible to all:

    • This bill protects the role of ACIP in making immunization recommendations for the Vaccines for Children Program as well as for the purposes of cost-free coverage of vaccines by health insurance plans—ensuring continued widespread access to life-saving vaccines.

    The Family Vaccine Protection Act has received the support of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Public Health Association, American College of Physicians, Infectious Disease Society of America, and Vaccinate Your Family.

    Read the full bill text HERE and a section-by-section summary HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide and Vehicle Fuel Efficiency Ranking Released

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    To assist the public to select vehicles of high energy efficiency, the Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs, not only publishes monthly information online on the fuel efficiency of newly certified models, but also compiles these data annually into the “Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide”. To further encourage the public adoption of energy-saving and carbon-reducing electric vehicles, the “2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide” also includes energy efficiency information of electric vehicles that have been tested and certified (please refer to the electric-vehicle pages).

    The top three vehicles in each fuel-saving vehicle ranking (non-electric) category in the 2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide are shown below:

    Among passenger cars, the top three are all hybrid vehicles: Honda FIT A522H1502 1498c.c. A1 5D, LEXUS LBX HYBRID 1490c.c. CVT 5D and TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID 2487c.c. CVT 4D, where the Honda FIT A522H1502 1498c.c. A1 5D manufactured by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., ranks first with a fuel economy of 26.9 km/L.

    Among commercial vehicles, the top three are TUCSON NX4H-C 1598c.c. A6 5D, TUCSON NX4H-A 1598c.c. A6 5D and CITROEN BERLINGO VAN (XL) 1499c.c. A8 5D (diesel), where the TUCSON NX4H-C 1598c.c. A6 5D manufactured by Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd., ranks atop the list with a fuel economy of 21.1 km/L.

    Among motorcycles (tested by “Fuel Economy Test Method for Motorcycles”), the top three are all from the HONDA SUPER CUB series, where the HONDA SUPER CUB 109.5c.c. M4 imported by RON-LI SUPER MOTORS CO., LTD., takes the top spot with a fuel economy of 95.9 km/L.

    According to the Energy Administration, to maximize energy-saving and carbon-reducing results for vehicles, it is important to not only carefully choose energy-saving vehicles but also to keep good driving habits and maintain vehicles in good conditions, such as reducing vehicle load, accelerating and decelerating smoothly, maintaining proper tire pressure and avoiding periods long idling. These are all effective ways of improving fuel economy.

    The Energy Administration also clarified that the energy efficiency values published in the 2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide were measured under standardized laboratory conditions. In real world driving, fuel economy may be affected by various factors such as weather, road and traffic conditions, usage of air conditioning and individual driving habits. Therefore, the actual number of kilometers traveled per liter of gasoline (or diesel) or kilowatt-hour of electricity may be lower than the values shown in the Guide.

    The “2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide” has been published on the Energy Administration’s official website (https://www.moeaea.gov.tw), and welcome to download. For some specific vehicle models, please visit the following website (https://auto.itri.org.tw) and click on the “Vehicle Energy Efficiency Inquiry” or “Energy Efficiency for Electric Vehicles”.

    Spokesperson: Deputy Director General, Chih-Wei Wu
    Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
    Phone Number: 02-2775-7750
    Mobile: 0922-339-410
    Email: cwwu@moeaea.gov.tw

    Business Contact: Director, Shu-Fang Kao
    Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
    Phone Number: 02-2775-7773
    Mobile: 0918-400-668
    Email: sfkao@moeaea.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Philippines and Angola Explore Tourism Cooperation in First Bilateral Business Forum


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    The Philippine Embassy in Lisbon, together with the PH-Angola  Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIAF), and in coordination with the Philippine  Department of Tourism (DOT), Asian Institute of Management (AIM), Philippine  Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Angola’s Ministry of Tourism, and AIPEX,  successfully held the First Philippines-Angola Business Forum on Sustainable Tourism on 30 May 2025 via virtual platform. 

    The Forum was held at the Philippine Honorary Consulate General’s Office in  Dipanda, Angola, under the leadership of Honorary Consul General Etienne Brechet,  with Honorary Consul Megan Brechet-Amamou as Forum host. 

    With the theme “Sustainable Tourism: A Pathway to Economic and Cultural  Development,” the Forum brought together government officials, private sector  representatives, and tourism stakeholders from both countries to explore opportunities  for bilateral cooperation, tourism development, and sustainable investment, with  particular focus on promoting Namibe Province as an emerging tourism destination. 

    The Philippine side shared its experiences in tourism policy development, post pandemic recovery efforts, sustainable tourism strategies, and private sector engagement. Presentations covered the Philippines’ legal and institutional  frameworks, ecotourism strategies, tourism infrastructure investments, and  approaches to ensuring that tourism development preserves cultural heritage and  ecological integrity. 

    Angola’s delegation, led by Angola’s Ministry of Tourism and CCIAF, presented the tourism potential of Namibe province, identifying opportunities in eco- and adventure  tourism, resort development, and cultural tourism, and expressed keen interest in  building business partnerships with Philippine stakeholders. 

    The Angolan side also conveyed their utmost appreciation for the comprehensive  presentations provided by the Philippine speakers and expressed a strong desire to  learn from the Philippines’ expertise in sustainable tourism development. 

    The Forum concluded with mutual interest in pursuing reciprocal business missions, tourism training exchanges, and joint promotional efforts to advance sustainable  tourism cooperation between the Philippines and Angola.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Protect Americans’ Private Data from Cyberattacks

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) introduced new bipartisan legislation to better protect Americans’ private medical data from cyberattackers. 

    Cyberattacks targeting Americans’ medical data have increased in recent years. In 2021, 46 million Americans had their health information breached as a result of a cyberattack, a threefold increase in three years. These cyberattacks often knock health systems offline, creating a backlog of unpaid claims and threatening patients’ access to care. Findings suggest that, as a result of these attacks, patients’ data may have been leaked on the dark web in the process. 

    Congressman Crow’s Healthcare Cybersecurity Act would help safeguard Americans’ private medical data by requiring greater coordination at the federal level to ensure that government agencies stand ready to respond to the increasing threat posed by cyberattacks. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) joined Congressman Crow in introducing this legislation. The bill was also introduced in the Senate by Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Todd Young (R-IN)

    “As technology advances, we must do more to protect Americans’ sensitive data,” said Congressman Crow. “That’s why I’m leading bipartisan legislation to strengthen our defenses and protect families from cyberattackers.”

    “Cyberattacks on our healthcare system endanger more than data—they put lives at risk. I’ve long worked to strengthen our nation’s cyber defenses where Americans are most exposed, from small businesses to hospitals. This bipartisan bill takes direct, strategic action: empowering CISA and HHS to coordinate real-time threat sharing, expanding cybersecurity training for providers, and establishing a dedicated liaison to bolster response. We’re not just responding to attacks—we’re building the infrastructure to prevent them, protect patient privacy, and defend a vital pillar of our national security,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

    The Healthcare Cybersecurity Act would specifically require the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collaborate on improving cybersecurity in both the health care and public health sectors. It would create a liaison between CISA and HHS to coordinate responses to cyberattacks, and would authorize cybersecurity training to all relevant personnel. The bill would also require CISA and HHS to conduct a study on specific cybersecurity risks facing the health care and public health sectors.

    Congressman Crow has long worked to strengthen America’s cybersecurity defenses, and previously introduced the Healthcare Cybersecurity Act in the 117th and 118th Congress. He also previously introduced the SBA Cyber Awareness Act, bipartisan legislation that would strengthen the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) cybersecurity to handle and report cyber threats that affect small businesses.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Top 500 private groups – know when to seek the right advice

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Top 500 private groups often have complex structures and arrangements that can have significant tax implications. So, it’s important that they seek the input of expert advisers, consult published ATO guidance, and engage with us directly when necessary to make sure they’re getting things right.

    Having a documented procedure in place explaining when, and how, a Top 500 group should seek external advice is the third principle of an effective tax governance framework. It’s also a requirement for groups who want to achieve justified trust.

    Our engagements show that some groups don’t have documented processes for seeking advice or where the process is documented the thresholds for seeking advice aren’t clear. This can lead to those groups not seeking advice on important transactions, that can cause errors that result in additional liabilities later on.

    We recommend you set in place documented processes to:

    • identify the escalation thresholds, including quantitative and qualitative factors, for when you should seek external advice
    • inform your advisers of any significant changes within your group, or any new, or atypical transactions
    • make sure the facts and assumptions underpinning the advice you receive are always based on accurate and current information
    • consider our published guidance and advice
    • know when, and how, you should engage with us directly and, where pre-lodgment positions are agreed to, lodge in accordance with that position.

    More resources

    For information about implementing effective tax governance, read our previous article Effective tax governance criteria for Top 500 private groups.

    Our Findings report Top 500 tax performance program – June 2024 will also provide you with our most recent insights into issues and risks we’ve observed from our engagement with Top 500 private groups like yours, demonstrating the importance of tax governance.

    Keep up to date

    We have tailored communication channels for medium, large and multinational businesses, to keep you up to date with updates and changes you need to know.

    Read more articles in our online Business bulletins newsroom.

    Subscribe to our free:

    • fortnightly Business bulletins email newsletterExternal Link
    • email notifications about new and updated information on our website – you can choose to receive updates relevant to your situation. Choose the ‘Business and organisations’ category to ensure your subscription includes notifications for more Business bulletins newsroom articles like this one.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Coop Pank AS results for May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Coop Pank’s financial results in May 2025:

    • In May, number of the bank’s clients increased by 1,500 and number of active clients decreased by 800. By the end of the month number of clients reached 216,00 and number of active clients reached 102,400. Over the year, customer base has grown by 11%. 
    • Volume of the bank’s customer deposits decreased by 47 million euros in May. The reduction in deposit volume was a deliberate step, as an additional 250 million euros was raised in March through the issuance of covered bonds. By the end of the month, the bank’s deposits reached 1.76 billion euros. Deposits of corporate customers decreased by 11 million euros and deposits of private customers decreased by 2 million euros. The volume of deposits attracted from international platforms decreased by 34 million euros. Over the year, volume of bank deposits has grown by 1%.
    • The bank’s loan portfolio increased by 29 million euros and reached 1.90 billion euros by the end of month. Business loans increased by 14 million euros and home loans increased by 13 million euros. Leasing and consumer financing portfolios both increased by 1 million euros. Over the year, loan portfolio has grown by 19%.
    • In May, the loan impairment cost was 0.4 million euros.
    • Compared to the first five months of last year, the bank’s net income decreased by 5% and expenses have increased by 1%.
    • In May, the bank earned net profit of 2.4 million euros. In the first five months of the year, the bank has earned a net profit of 12.1 million euros, that is 17% less than in the same period last year.
    • In May, Coop Pank’s return on equity was 13.1% and the cost-income ratio was 50%.

    Comment by Paavo Truu, Member of the Management Board and CFO of Coop Pank:

    “Although economic uncertainty remains high, the easing of inflation in the eurozone and declining interest rates in money markets are helping to improve the confidence of both businesses and consumers. Lower loan burdens, better opportunities for investment, and Coop Pank’s competitive offering resulted in solid growth of the loan portfolio in May.

    At the same time, the deliberate reduction of deposits continued, driven by the successful covered bond issuance carried out in March. As a result, the bank now has access to a long-term and stable funding source, which enables a moderate decrease in the volume of more expensive term and foreign deposits.

    In May, Coop Pank extended its successful Teacher’s Home Loan product from kindergarten and general education school teachers to include vocational school teachers as well. According to Kantar Emor survey results, Coop Pank is the most recommended bank in Estonia and has reached 10th place in the ranking of reputable employers. In the Responsible Business Index issued by the Kestliku Ettevõtluse Liit KELL, Coop Pank, for the first time, earned the gold-level recognition.

    At the turn of the month, Coop Pank’s cooperation with Coop retail reached a new level: joint customers were offered an attractive and unique purchase reward, with the bank transferring money back to their account for purchases made in Coop stores using a Coop Pank debit card. This is the first large-scale cashback-type loyalty program in Estonia, in which customers receive 1% of their previous month’s purchase amount back in cash each month.

    Strong growth in both the loan and everyday banking markets, along with efficient operations, brought Coop Pank a net profit of 2.4 million euros in May. The bank’s return on equity was 13.1% and the cost-to-income ratio stood at 50%.”

    More detailed financial reports of Coop Pank are available at: https://www.cooppank.ee/en/financial-reports

    Coop Pank, based on Estonian capital, is one of the five universal banks operating in Estonia. The number of clients using Coop Pank for their daily banking reached 216,000. Coop Pank aims to put the synergy generated by the interaction of retail business and banking to good use and to bring everyday banking services closer to people’s homes. The strategic shareholder of the bank is the domestic retail chain Coop Eesti, comprising of 320 stores.

    Additional information:
    Paavo Truu
    CFO
    Phone: +372 5160 231
    E-mail: paavo.truu@cooppank.ee

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Office of the Deputy President provides clarity regarding Deputy President Mashatile’s international programme travel expenses

    Source: President of South Africa –

    The Office of the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa wishes to provide clarity regarding Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s international travel expenses which has recently gained much attention in the media, with reports and commentary coming from News24, City Press, Sunday Times/Timeslive, SowetanLIVE, Independent Media/IOL, The Citizen, BusinessLive, ENCA and others. Categorically, the office and the Deputy President have not, as seems to be suggested, misused State funds or been extravagant in financing the costs of the Deputy President’s international travel.

    This unprecedented matter which involves the international work of the Deputy President’s travel costs, was first raised by Action SA, a political party represented in Parliament, in a written question to the Deputy President.  In light of such an expected phenomena, the Deputy President replied to the question in full and also provided specific details which include; correct figures and breakdown of individual costs by members of the delegation supporting the Deputy President. 

    The Office of the Deputy President wishes to reiterate that Deputy President Mashatile undertakes all international working visits, not in his personal capacity but on behalf of the South African Government as delegated by President Cyril Ramaphosa.  Moreover, the majority of these strategic international visits are aimed at strengthening existing bilateral, political, economic and diplomatic relations between South Africa and visited countries. 

    As part of South Africa’s global investment drive, and commitment to contribute to global peace and stability, South Africa, through the President and Deputy President as well as Ministers, have a role to play in advancing the global agenda, an aspect of which includes engagements with counterparts in other countries. For instance, the Deputy President co-chairs the SA-China BNC with Vice President Han Zheng and many other delegated countries including, but not limited to Vietnam and South Sudan.

    In summary, in the comprehensive answer to the Parliamentary Question by Action SA, it was stated that since Deputy President Mashatile assumed office on 3 July 2024, he has undertaken the following International official visits:

    • Ireland and United Kingdom Working Visits 26 September – 4 October 2024: Ireland 26 – 29 September 2024 and United Kingdom Working 30 September – 4 October 2024
    • Standing for President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Republic of South Africa at the Inauguration of the President of Botswana, H.E Duma Boko on 8 November 2024
    • Standing for President Ramaphosa and South Africa at the Extraordinary SADC Summit held on 20 November 2024 in Harare, Zimbabwe
    • Japan Working Visit 16 – 19 March 2025
    • France Working Visit 19 – 24 May 2025

    The Working Visit to Japan in particular, being the one raised by most media, was of strategic importance to South Africa, as it focussed on strengthening political, economic and social areas of cooperation between the two countries. The Working Visit came at the back of the two nations celebrating 115 years of strong diplomatic relations. The Deputy President was accompanied by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Thandi Moraka; the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie; the Minister of Higher Education, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane; the Minister of Agriculture, Mr John Steenhuisen; the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau, and the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms Nomalungelo Gina.

    In addition, the Japan Working Visit achieved several key objectives including representing the first high-level engagement between South Africa and Japan in the last 10 years; signalling an acknowledgement and appreciation for the long-standing relationship between the two countries based on a wide area of cooperation not limited to trade and investment. This visit was beneficial in terms of South Africa’s African Agenda, the current confluence of South Africa’s G20 Chairship and Japan’s hosting of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in August, presenting a unique opportunity for South Africa to communicate its own and the continent’s position and priorities to Japan and the expected support and role that Japan could to play in this regard.

    Finally, in our response to Parliament, the office has provided a breakdown of the cost to Government of all individual members of the delegation supporting the Deputy President. Regrettably, some of the figures presented by the media are significantly blown out of proportion and do not accurately reflect the cost of the trips. For example, one media liaison officer, referred to by Timeslive as the “most expensive supporting official”, is said to have cost R580, 582 for Japan alone, when in fact the total cost for that official is less than R66 000 including flights and accommodation. 

    While the cost of international travel is generally very high, these figures must always be seen in the context of their original currency in relation to the Rand Dollar exchange, as well as the going rate of such travel expenses, including ground transport, accommodation and flights. 

    In terms of the travel policy in the Presidential Handbook, transport for the President and Deputy President during travel outside South Africa is the responsibility and for the account of the State. Accommodation and incidental expenses of the President and Deputy President whilst on all official journeys abroad is arranged through, and paid for, by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. The logistics and choice of accommodation is not the responsibility or competency of the Office of the Deputy President or Presidency. In fact, DIRCO plays an integral role in reviewing, advising and endorsing Government Delegation compositions, ensuring that participation aligns with formal policy guidelines that emphasise relevance, necessity, and cost-effectiveness. These guidelines reflect government directives aimed at optimising resource allocation while maintaining operational effectiveness during international engagements.

    Regarding the financial aspects of the visits, responsibility for travel, accommodation, and other miscellaneous expenses is generally shared among DIRCO and other participating departments, depending on the officials’ affiliations and roles. Prior to the visit, DIRCO oversees the processing of budget submissions or cost estimates to ensure compliance with approved spending frameworks. This includes strict adherence to National Treasury guidelines on international travel, the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and other precepts governing public expenditure.

    In all these visits, the Office of the Deputy President has insisted on the most cost-effective provisions for the Deputy President and his delegations, and has therefore not misused nor extravagantly used State funds as alluded.

    Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 065 195 8840

    Issued by: The Presidency
    Pretoria
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Updates to guidance about CEDS

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We’ve updated our website and PCG 2018/9 Central management and control test of residency: identifying where a company’s central management and control is located to:

    • reflect the amendments to section 295 of the Corporations Act 2001 enacted in December 2024 regarding the Consolidated Entity Disclosure Statement (CEDS)
    • confirm the PCG may assist companies required to complete the CEDS for their annual financial reports
    • clarify that a company won’t be considered ‘low risk’ under the PCG if it self-assesses and reports as a non-resident for Australian tax purposes but has inconsistently reported as an Australian tax resident in the CEDS. This applies for financial years commencing on, or after, 1 July 2024.

    The updates reflect the amendments in the Treasury Laws Amendment (Fairer for Families and Farmers and Other Measures) Act 2024. These amendments ensure tax residency disclosures in the CEDS align with tax return disclosures, to improve multinational tax transparency.

    ASIC’s information sheetExternal Link has also been updated.

    Keep up to date

    We have tailored communication channels for medium, large and multinational businesses, to keep you up to date with updates and changes you need to know.

    Read more articles in our online Business bulletins newsroom.

    Subscribe to our free:

    • fortnightly Business bulletins email newsletterExternal Link
    • email notifications about new and updated information on our website – you can choose to receive updates relevant to your situation. Choose the ‘Business and organisations’ category to ensure your subscription includes notifications for more Business bulletins newsroom articles like this one.

    MIL OSI News –

  • US, China reach deal to ease export curbs, keep tariff truce alive

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. and Chinese officials said on Tuesday they had agreed on a framework to put their trade truce back on track and remove China’s export restrictions on rare earths while offering little sign of a durable resolution to longstanding trade differences.
     
    At the end of two days of intense negotiations in London, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told reporters the framework deal puts “meat on the bones” of an agreement reached last month in Geneva to ease bilateral retaliatory tariffs that had reached crushing triple-digit levels.
     
    But the Geneva deal had faltered over China’s continued curbs on critical minerals exports, prompting the Trump administration to respond with export controls of its own preventing shipments of semiconductor design software, aircraft and other goods to China.
     
    Lutnick said the agreement reached in London would remove some of the recent U.S. export restrictions, but did not provide details after the talks concluded around midnight London time (2300 GMT).
     
    “We have reached a framework to implement the Geneva consensus and the call between the two presidents,” Lutnick said. “The idea is we’re going to go back and speak to President Trump and make sure he approves it. They’re going to go back and speak to President Xi and make sure he approves it, and if that is approved, we will then implement the framework.”
     
    In a separate briefing, China’s Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang also said a trade framework had been reached in principle that would be taken back to U.S. and Chinese leaders.
     
    The dispute may keep the Geneva agreement from unravelling over duelling export controls, but does little to resolve deep differences over Trump’s unilateral tariffs and longstanding U.S. complaints about China’s state-led, export-driven economic model.
     
    The two sides left Geneva with fundamentally different views of the terms of that agreement and needed to be more specific on required actions, said Josh Lipsky, senior director of the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center in Washington.
     
    “They are back to square one but that’s much better than square zero,” Lipsky added.
     
    The two sides have until August 10 to negotiate a more comprehensive agreement to ease trade tensions, or tariff rates will snap back from about 30% to 145% on the U.S. side and from 10% to 125% on the Chinese side.
     
    Investors, who have been badly burned by trade turmoil before, offered a cautious response and MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.57%.
     
    “The devil will be in the details, but the lack of reaction suggests this outcome was fully expected,” said Chris Weston, head of research at Pepperstone in Melbourne.
     
    “The details matter, especially around the degree of rare earths bound for the U.S., and the subsequent freedom for U.S.-produced chips to head east, but for now as long as the headlines of talks between the two parties remain constructive, risk assets should remain supported.”
     
    RESOLVING RESTRICTIONS
     
    Lutnick said China’s restrictions on exports of rare earth minerals and magnets to the U.S. will be resolved as a “fundamental” part of the framework agreement.
     
    “Also, there were a number of measures the United States of America put on when those rare earths were not coming,” Lutnick said. “You should expect those to come off … in a balanced way.”
     
    U.S. President Donald Trump’s shifting tariff policies have roiled global markets, sparked congestion and confusion in major ports, and cost companies tens of billions of dollars in lost sales and higher costs. The World Bank on Tuesday slashed its global growth forecast for 2025 by four-tenths of a percentage point to 2.3%, saying higher tariffs and heightened uncertainty posed a “significant headwind” for nearly all economies.
     
    A resolution to the trade war may require policy adjustments from all countries to treat financial imbalances or otherwise greatly risk mutual economic damage, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde said on a rare visit to Beijing on Wednesday.
     
    PHONE CALL HELPED
     
    The second round of U.S.-China talks was given a major boost by a rare phone call between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, which Lutnick said provided directives that were merged with Geneva truce agreement.
     
    Customs data published on Monday showed that China’s exports to the U.S. plunged 34.5% in May, the sharpest drop since the outbreak of the COVID pandemic.
     
    While the impact on U.S. inflation and its jobs market has so far been muted, tariffs have hammered U.S. business and household confidence and the dollar remains under pressure.
     
    Lutnick was joined by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent at the London talks. Bessent departed hours before their conclusion to return to Washington to testify before Congress on Wednesday.
     
    China holds a near-monopoly on rare earth magnets, a crucial component in electric vehicle motors, and its decision in April to suspend exports of a wide range of critical minerals and magnets upended global supply chains.
     
    In May, the U.S. responded by halting shipments of semiconductor design software and chemicals and aviation equipment, revoking export licences that had been previously issued.
     
    China, Mexico, the European Union, Japan, Canada and many airlines and aerospace companies worldwide urged the Trump administration not to impose new national security tariffs on imported commercial planes and parts, according to documents released Tuesday.
     
    Just after the framework deal was announced, a U.S. appeals court allowed Trump’s most sweeping tariffs to stay in effect while it reviews a lower court decision blocking them on grounds that they exceeded Trump’s legal authority by imposing them.
     
    The decision keeps alive a key pressure point on China, Trump’s currently suspended 34% “reciprocal” duties that had prompted swift tariff escalation.
     
    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bornstein Seafoods Inc Recalls Cooked & Peeled Ready-To-Eat Coldwater Shrimp Meat Because of Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    June 10, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    June 10, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes

    Company Name:
    Bornstein Seafoods Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Bornstein Seafoods

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Coldwater Shrimp Meat

    Company Announcement
    June 10, 2025, Bornstein Seafoods of Bellingham, Washington is recalling 44,550 Lbs. of Cooked & Peeled Ready-To-Eat Coldwater Shrimp Meat (see table below for multiple lot codes) because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
    Product was distributed directly to distributors and retailers in California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia of Canada. Products may have been further distributed and sold at retailers nationwide.
    Product can be identified under Bornstein Seafoods branded packaging in 1 lb. or 5 lb. plastic bag. The market name is Shrimp. The affected product has the lot code printed at the lower left corner of master case label and at the bottom on the back side of 1 lb. or 5 lb. bag:

    Item No.

    UPC Code 

    Master Case Label Description 

    Lot No. 

    ZMU41-1003

    614133200246

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 250/350 Ct 15 X 1 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19008

    ZMU41-1007

    614133200239

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 250/350 Ct 4 X 5 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19009

    ZMU41-1007

    614133200239

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 250/350 Ct 4 X 5 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    P11710

    ZMU41-1015

    614133200246

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 15 X 1 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19009

    ZMU41-1015

    614133200246

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 15 X 1 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19019

    ZMU41-1015

    614133200246

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 15 X 1 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19026

    ZMU41-1015

    614133200246

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 15 X 1 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19030

    ZMU41-1015

    614133200246

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 15 X 1 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19032

    ZMU41-1015

    614133200246

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 15 X 1 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19037

    ZMU41-1015

    614133200246

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 15 X 1 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19039

    ZMU41-1019

    614133200239

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 4 X 5 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A18989

    ZMU41-1019

    614133200239

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 4 X 5 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19006

    ZMU41-1019

    614133200239

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 4 X 5 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    A19007

    ZMU41-1019

    614133200239

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 4 X 5 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    P11709

    ZMU41-1019

    614133200239

    Fzn Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct 4 X 5 Lb Bag Bsi Msc

    P11710

    No illnesses have been reported to date.
    The recall was the result of the firm’s routine sampling program and Listeria monocytogenes was detected in an in-process shrimp sample in a food production environment. The company has ceased the distribution of the product as the company continues our root cause investigation as to what caused the problem.
    This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
    Consumers who have purchased the affected product are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company by email at Andrew@bornstein.com.

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    06/10/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the annual Black Business Council Summit Gala and Awards Dinner

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the annual Black Business Council Summit Gala and Awards Dinner

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEChseYazD0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McMahon Admits to Warren That Education Secretary Lacks Legal Authority to Dismantle the Education Department

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    June 10, 2025

     Warren gains key concessions from Secretary McMahon in a private meeting.

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) met with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. Senator Warren also delivered over 1,000 letters to McMahon that the senator had received from people in all 50 states who are worried about the Secretary’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education (ED).

    “My job as a U.S. Senator is to conduct oversight and hold officials’ feet to the fire when they are actively harming the American people. I was able to secure important commitments from Education Secretary McMahon, which will make a real difference for people with student loans,” said Senator Warren. “But at a time when President Trump and Republicans in Congress are trying to make it more expensive for students from working-class families to get ahead, I will not stop fighting to ensure that every student has access to affordable, quality education in America.”

    During the meeting, Secretary McMahon revealed four key pieces of information to Senator Warren:

    • Secretary McMahon conceded that she has no statutory authority to move the responsibilities of the Department of Education to other agencies without Congress passing legislation first. This comes as the Trump administration tries to abolish the Department by shifting its responsibilities to the Small Business Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services, among other agencies that are ill-equipped to take on the Department of Education’s responsibilities. “McMahon didn’t just say she didn’t have the intention to do it—she said that she is legally barred from doing it,” said Senator Warren. “I asked her about the legal authority she would have to transfer any part of the functions of the Department of Education somewhere else, for example, to the SBA, and she said, ‘I can’t do that. That is the job of Congress.’ There was no ambiguity in her answer.” 
    • Secretary McMahon confirmed that she does not intend to restart Social Security offsets for people with defaulted student loans. McMahon told Senator Warren that she personally decided to pause the seizure of Social Security benefits after the Trump administration had announced that it would start forced Social Security collections.“The Education Secretary has assured me that the pause that is currently in place will stay in place and if there is to be any change in that, she would get in touch with me directly before we go there,” said Senator Warren.
    • Secretary McMahon stated that she intends to soon restore the income-driven repayment (IDR) payment count tracker to studentaid.gov, allowing borrowers to track their progress towards receiving debt relief, after taking down the tracker earlier in the Trump administration.
    • Secretary McMahon admitted that she recommended cuts to the Pell Grant program because of the program’s budgetary shortfall, but that it was ultimately up to Congress to fund the Pell program. “McMahon purported to be a supporter of Pell and said that she thought these changes were necessary for fiscal responsibility,” said Senator Warren. “The idea that the Republicans want to cut Pell further, I can already say categorically, is a really bad idea and it’s going to mean that we’re going to lose some number of young people who want to get an education and who ultimately benefit this country when they get an education.”

    Secretary McMahon also committed to responding in writing to Senator Warren’s June 4, 2025 letter containing 66 questions regarding her policies as Education Secretary. Last month, Senator Warren invited Secretary McMahon to a public forum Warren held on May 14, 2025 on higher education affordability. Secretary McMahon refused the invitation in a May 12 letter and instead agreed to a meeting with Senator Warren. 

    Senator Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign in a coordinated effort to fight back against President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education:

    • On June 9, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in pushing the Acting Inspector General of ED to open an investigation into new information obtained by her office revealing that DOGE may have gained access to two FSA internal systems, in addition to sensitive borrower data.
    • On May 20, 2025, Senator Warren and 27 other senators pushed for full funding for the Office of Federal Student Aid.
    • On May 20, 2025, Senator Warren and 27 other senators pushed for full funding to the Office of Federal Student Aid.
    • On May 14, 2025, Senator Warren led a Senate forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families,” highlighting the consequences of Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education (ED) and President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” for working- and middle-class students and borrowers.
    • On May 13, 2025, Senator Warren agreed to meet with Education Secretary Linda McMahon and promised to bring questions and stories from Americans across the country to highlight how the Trump administration’s attacks on education are hurting American families.
    • On May 6, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren highlighted the consequences of President Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education for American families in a Senate forum.
    • On April 24, 2025, Senator Warren launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education, seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions from the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers.
    • On April 10, 2025, following a request led by Senator Warren, the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General agreed to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    • On April 2, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence chatbots.
    • On April 2, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education (ED) and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
    • On March 27, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a letter to Acting Department of Education Inspector General (IG) René Rocque requesting that the IG conduct an investigation of the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    • On March 20, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to slash the capacity of Federal Student Aid to handle student aid complaints.
    • On February 24, 2025, in a response to Senator Warren, Secretary McMahon gave her first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education.
    • On February 11, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim sent Linda McMahon, Secretary-Designate for the U.S. Department of Education, a 12-page letter with 65 questions on McMahon’s policy views in advance of her nomination hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, US conduct professional, candid talks — senior official

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China and the United States have over the past two days conducted professional, rational, in-depth and candid exchanges, said a senior Chinese official on Tuesday.

    Li Chenggang, China international trade representative with the Ministry of Commerce and vice minister of commerce, made the remarks when briefing the press following the first meeting of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism held in London.

    The two sides have agreed in principle the framework for implementing consensus between the two heads of state during their phone talks on June 5, as well as those reached at Geneva talks, Li said.

    It is hoped that progress made at the London meeting will be conducive to strengthening trust between China and the United States, and to further promoting the steady and healthy development of economic and trade ties between the two countries, according to him.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China extends anti-dumping probe into EU pork, relevant products

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China’s Ministry of Commerce announced Tuesday that it would extend the duration of an anti-dumping investigation into pork and relevant products originating from the European Union (EU).

    Given the complexity of the case, and in accordance with relevant regulations, the ministry has decided to further extend the probe until Dec. 16, 2025, the ministry said in a statement on its website.

    The ministry initiated the investigation on June 17 last year. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Uncertainty high among US small businesses in May

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Uncertainty remained high among U.S. small businesses in May, according to data released Tuesday from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).

    “Although optimism recovered slightly in May, uncertainty is still high among small business owners,” said NFIB chief economist Bill Dunkelberg. “While the economy will continue to stumble along until the major sources of uncertainty are resolved, owners reported more positive expectations on business conditions and sales growth.”

    According to the small business optimism index, a net 1 percent of small business owners viewed current inventory stocks as “too low” in May, up 7 points from the month prior and the highest reading since August 2022.

    This was the largest monthly increase in the survey’s history.

    The net percent of owners expecting better business conditions rose 10 points from April to a net 25 percent.

    The net percent of owners expecting higher real sales volumes rose 11 points from April to a net 10 percent. This component contributed the most to the small business optimism index’s improvement.

    This occured amid President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Solar on Farms: Unlocking farm cost savings

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Energy Minister Simon Watts has announced the Government’s new Solar on Farms initiative, which will support farmers in taking the next step towards installing solar and battery systems, helping them reduce energy costs, increase on-farm resilience, and allow farmers to gain greater control over their power use, leading to increased efficiency and productivity.

    The Solar on Farms package includes:

    • Independent and practical tools and advice to assist farmers
    • A dedicated help function to guide farmers through the opportunities
    • Feasibility studies and technology demonstrations tailored to various farm types
    • Real-life energy data for different farm types, showing how solar energy works in practice
    • Independent advice on progressing consents and applications with local and regional bodies and Electricity Distribution Businesses
    • A partnership with the Centre for Sustainable Finance to accelerate access to finance, making it quicker, simpler and easier.

    “Kiwi farmers have a long history of adapting, problem-solving and finding ways to be smart with land and resources. Real progress comes from the ground up, from people who understand the land, the seasons, and how to run a business,” Mr Watts says.

    “That’s why we want to give farmers more choices and the ability to unlock the cost savings that come with on-farm solar, batteries, and flexible energy systems. However, to achieve this, farmers require the correct information, evidence, tools, and trusted advice.

    “That’s where Solar on Farms comes in. It’s a practical support package that helps farmers determine if solar and battery systems are right for them by working with them to navigate the details of installing and leveraging this technology for their businesses. The package provides farmers with direct access to independent advice. It offers solutions tailored to various farm types and energy profiles.

    “Farms across New Zealand, especially those using irrigation and other energy-intensive systems, are facing increasingly high and unpredictable energy costs. This adds real pressure to already tight margins. 

    “On-farm solar and batteries can help reduce that pressure by improving self-sufficiency and lowering exposure to rising energy prices, especially in rural and remote areas. Generating electricity on-farm also creates opportunities to receive revenue from solar electricity back to the grid.

    “Early modelling tells us that if 30 per cent of Kiwi farms installed larger systems – of the size we see on some farms already – they could generate as much as 10 per cent of New Zealand’s current electricity demand. This is a real win for the security of our energy supply.”

    EECA is leading the delivery of Solar on Farms in collaboration with farmers, sector bodies, and technical experts, and the package of initiatives will be available soon.

    Fieldays 2025 also celebrated the launch of Farmlands Flex, a complementary solar on farms product from Farmlands and energy innovator Blackcurrent, with the support of Ara Ake, New Zealand’s energy innovation centre. The product combines solar, batteries and smart software in a fully managed system that enables users to generate, store and manage their energy on-site.

    “The Farmlands Flex product includes equipment, flexible demand management software, and takes care of the installation and application processes on behalf of the farmer,” says Mr Watts. 

    “It is an excellent demonstration of how solar purchasing and installation can be made more efficient.”

    Mr Watts also welcomed ASB’s recent announcement of a new 0 percent solar loan aimed at helping farmers secure long-term energy resilience and cost savings.

    “I look forward to seeing how products like Farmlands Flex, the ASB SMART solar loan, and our Solar on Farms initiative help set the farming sector up for long-term success.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: P. East Trading Corp Distributors Issues Alert on Uneviscerated ‘Salted Smoked Split Herring’ Due to Potential Clostridium Botulinum Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    June 10, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    June 10, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Potential Foodborne Illness – Clostridium Botulinum

    Company Name:
    P. East Trading Corp Distributors
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    No Brand

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Uneviscerated Salted Smoked Split Herring

    Company Announcement
    P. East Trading Corp. of Bronx, NY is recalling Salted Smoked Split Herring because the product was found to be over 5″ in length and uneviscerated, as such having potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
    The sale of uneviscerated fish over 5″ in length may contain Clostridium botulinum spores as they are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
    The recalled “Salted Smoked Split Herring” was distributed to retail locations in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut in 18 lbs. wooden boxes with container code Lot 1 PRC5073. The “Salted Smoked Split Herring” is a product of Canada manufactured by Sea Star Seafood Ltd.
    The product was likely to be repacked by these retail locations in deli-style or other retail packaging. Retail packaging and coding will vary based on location of purchase. A list of locations that received and potentially sold the recalled products can be found below.
    The “Salted Smoked Split Herring” was sampled by a New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspector and subsequent analysis of the product by New York State Food Laboratory personnel confirmed the herring was not properly eviscerated prior to processing.
    No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
    Consumers that have purchased “Salted Smoked Split Herring”, from the following stores below, are advised not to eat it and should return it to the place of purchase for a full a refund. Consumers with questions may contact P. East Trading Corp. at (718) 991-6070 or Email at peastl@gmail.com or contact Jay Hong, Office Manager.
    **Retail Locations:
    PIONNER SUPERMARKET, Newark NJJOE’S MARKET #3, Irvington NJKEYFOOD SUPERMARKET, Laurelton NYHAPPY FRUIT MARKET, Teaneck NJEXTRA SUPER MARKET, East Orange NJSUPER FRESH, Irvington NJFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, North Bergen NJFOOD WORLD SUPER FRESH, Middlesex NJFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, Fairview NJTROPICAL SUN SUPERMARKET, East Orange, NJIDEAL FOOD BASKET, Brooklyn NYWILLIAM’S FARM #2, Yonkers NYS & H FRUITS and VEGETABLES, Bronx NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(Myrtle), Brooklyn NYC TOWN SUPERMARKET, Brooklyn NYKEY FOOD SUPERMARKET, Brooklyn NYAMERICAS FOOD BASKET, Brooklyn NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, Westbury NYMK NY FISH & VEGETABLES, Bronx NYTROPICAL DAIRY FARM CORP., Bronx NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(161 ST), Bronx NYVALUE FRESH MARKET INC, Hollis NYIDEAL FOOD BASKET, Brooklyn NYKEY FOOD FRESH, Brooklyn NYLULUCOCO, INC, Spring Valley NYCHOP SHOP FRESH MEAT MARKET, Brooklyn NYMARKET FRESH, Newburgh NYC TOWN SUPERMARKET, Hempstead NYFAMILY BEST FARM, Brooklyn NYROSEDALE FRUIT, Jamaica NYS WON PROVISION INC, Bronx NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKEL Hempstead NYSUPER FRESH, Baldwin NYFRUIT TREE FARM, Copiague NYBROTHER’S PRODUCE CO., Bronx NYGOLDEN CITRUS MARKET INC, Brooklyn NYSHOP FAIR SUPERMARKET, Bronx NYY & R FARM INC., Brooklyn NYJOHNS FARM MARKET, Queens NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, New York NYKEY FOOD SUPERMARKET, Far Rockaway NYNEW UTICA FOOD MARKET CORP., Brooklyn NYIDEAL FOOD BASKET, Brooklyn NYJOY BEST FRUIT BROOKLYN NYIDEAL FOOD BASKET SUPERMARKET, BROOKLYN NYZ & H MINI MARKET, BROOKLYN NYYELLOW MARKET, BROOKLYN NYSK FARM EP CORP, BROOKLYN NYK – SUPER MARKET, JAMAICA NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(Mt Vernon), BRONX NYBEST H&H, INC, BRONX NYDK FAMILY PRODUCE, BROOKLYN NYCO CO MARKET INC, BROOKLYN NYMARKET FRESH, MIDDLETOWN NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, BRIDGEPORT CTFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(JUNIUS), BROOKLYN NYBOGOPA FARMBRIA, QUEENS NYBEST FARM MARKET, BROOKLYN NYGREEN POINT, JAMAICA NYJ & D FARM MARKET CORP., JAMAICA NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(MANHATTAN AVE), BROOKLYN NYMANGO KING FARMERS MARKET, BROOKLYN NYSUPER FRESH SUPERMARKET, BROOKLYN NYGREEN FRUIT – SUTPHIN, JAMAICA NYMERRICK COUNTRY FOODS, QUEENS NYKINGSBRIDGE FARM, BRONX NYASIA SUPERMARKET INC / JD PRODUCE, SYRACUSE NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(57), CORONA NYLIBERTY PRODUCE CORP., RICHMOND HILL NYGOLDEN MANGO FARM, OZONE PARK NYKEY FOOD SUPERMARKET, BROOKLYN NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(163), BRONX NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, TRENTON NJWEST INDIAN FARM MARKET, QUEENS NY

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    P. East Trading Corp, or contact Jay Hong, Office Manager
    (718) 991-6070
    peastl@gmail.com

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Florida Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Helene

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA –The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida of the July 7 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Hurricane Helene occurring Sept. 23-Oct. 7, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties in Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Charlotte, Clay, Citrus, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Nassau Pasco, Pinellas, Putnam, Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Wakulla and Union.

    Under this declaration, PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for both business physical disaster loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Examples of eligible non-critical PNP organizations include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools, and colleges.

    PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    Interest rates are as low as 3.25%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 7, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Releases New Refrigerator Software Update To Improve User Convenience

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics announced today that it has started rolling out a software update to introduce new features for its Bespoke AI Refrigerators with screens,1 which is launching in 2025. Designed to enhance the user experience, the update includes the Voice ID feature provided by Bixby, which was unveiled at Welcome to Bespoke AI global launch event in March.
     
    “Our primary goal for this year is to realize an AI Home that adapts intuitively to the user,” said Jeong Seung Moon, EVP and Head of the R&D Team for Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “We aim to enhance the user experience through continuous software upgrades for existing products, taking us one step closer to a true AI Home experience.”
     
     
    New Update: Bixby and Samsung TV Plus
    The Voice ID feature2 is a new multi-voice recognition function provided by Bixby.3 It identifies users’ voices registered either on the refrigerator or a Galaxy mobile device, enabling personalized features based on the recognized user. This allows consumers to personalize shared home appliances for individual use, offering greater convenience and functionality.
     
    For example, Bixby intelligently switches to each user’s Samsung account based on the recognized user. Users can check their registered schedules on the calendar,4 or their photos5 using simple voice commands. Also, they can trigger an alarm on their phone to check its location, even when the device is set to silent mode.6
     
    The Voice ID feature also enables seamless interactions with the refrigerator screen for users who utilize vision enhancements on their Galaxy mobile phones. Even without a request to switch accounts, Bixby automatically switches accounts with general conversations for these users. It then synchronizes the appliance’s display modes with the settings on the user’s mobile phone, such as color inversion or grayscale.7
     

     
    Additionally, Samsung has introduced a new way to activate Bixby on the screen. Previously, users could activate Bixby by clicking the Bixby icon on the screen or through voice commands. When the screen is off, an additional option has been added to activate Bixby by double-tapping the display. Users can make the most of this feature by selecting their preferred method in the settings.
     
    The update is being applied to Bespoke AI Refrigerators with AI Family Hub launching in 2025 first,8 with availability coming after the completion of the latest software update on AI Family Hub screens or SmartThings.
     
    Additionally, Samsung plans to gradually apply this update to the Bespoke AI refrigerators with AI Home9 in the second quarter of 2025. For refrigerators with AI Home, the update expands the service area for Samsung TV Plus, as well. Previously available in only South Korea and the United States, the service will extend to Canada, Brazil, Australia, Mexico and India. Thanks to the update, it is expected that consumers will be able to easily enjoy entertainment features right from their kitchen with Samsung TV Plus.
     
     
    1 Refers to the refrigerators with AI Family Hub, and 9-inch AI Home screens
    2 Each user must register for a Samsung Account on screen appliances in advance. Voice ID should be registered either on the refrigerator, or Galaxy mobile devices and then transferred to the refrigerator. (Limited to Galaxy S24 and subsequent models where Voice ID can be registered.)
    3 Bixby is Samsung’s brand of Internet of Things (IoT) voice assistant. Bixby service availability may vary depending on the country. Bixby recognizes certain accents/dialects of English (US, UK, Indian), Chinese, Korean, French, German, Italian, Spanish (Spain, Latin America) and Portuguese (Brazil). User interface may change and differ by device. Availability of Bixby features and content providers may vary depending on the country/carrier/language/device model/OS version. A Samsung account log-in and network connection (Wi-Fi or data network) are required.
    4 To use calendar feature, users need to either register their schedule directly on the refrigerator or link their mobile phone calendar in advance. Only Google or Microsoft calendars saved under a Google or Microsoft account can be synced with the Bespoke AI Refrigerator with AI Family Hub. (Refrigerators with AI Home support Google Calendar only.)
    5 Gallery feature is supported only for users who have saved photos to OneDrive cloud storage via the Samsung Gallery app on a Samsung mobile phone.
    6 To enable the service, a preset is required in the SmartThings Find.
    7 When a user registers a device through the SmartThings app, a one-time sync notification may appear via a plug-in. If the user signs into their Samsung account on a refrigerator and related settings are stored in the cloud, this data may be transmitted once to the device. Screen settings can be modified at any time, and any changes will be saved and remain in effect unless manually updated.
    8 Timeline may vary depending on the service region or model.
    9 AI Home refers to the 7’’ or 9’’ LCD screen on the product. Does not mean all services available on the AI Home are AI or generate information or outcome using AI. Certain functions accessible through the AI Home utilize AI-based algorithms, which can be updated periodically to improve accuracy. AI-based algorithms may generate incomplete or incorrect information.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Gutting the Ponsonby community’: Locals say post office should stay open

    By Aisha Campbell, RNZ News intern

    Ponsonby’s post office is shutting shop next month despite push back from the local community.

    A sign on the storefront, which is at the College Hill end of Ponsonby Road, said the closure would take place on 4 July but the post boxes would be “staying put”.

    Ponsonby local and author John Harris said New Zealand Post’s decision to close the store was “ill-considered” and it should “try harder” to cater for the people who use the shop’s services.

    “They’ve got to be mindful of the vital role that post shops like this one play in glueing the community together,” Harris said.

    “If you go down to the post shop you’ll see it’s buzzing with activity; people popping in to post parcels or to get forms filled out and so forth . . .  they’ve got to think about the effect on small communities and this is like gutting the Ponsonby community.”

    Viv Rosenberg, a spokesperson for the Ponsonby Business Association, said the group is saddened by the decision to close the shop.

    ”Our local post office has been part of the fabric of our community in Three Lamps for several years and we regard the team there as part of our Ponsonby family. We are working alongside others to try and keep it open.”

    Plan but no timeframe
    In 2018, NZ Post announced its plan to close its remaining 79 standalone post offices but did not give a timeframe on when the final store would be shut.

    NZ Post general manager consumer Sarah Sandoval said customer data and service patterns were analysed to determine where NZ Post services were best placed.

    “The Ponsonby area is well serviced by existing postal outlets, and to remove duplications of services, we’ve decided to make this change.”

    The Asia Pacific Report story about the impending Ponsonby post office shop closure published earlier this month. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    She also said that there were nearby options available, including on Hardinge Street 1.4km away, and NZ Post Herne Bay, 1km away.

    The NZ Post website said “store closures are given very careful consideration”.

    “[Reasons for closure] can include a decline in customer numbers or services which significantly affect the economic viability of the store,” NZ Post said.

    Harris emailed NZ Post CEO David Walsh expressing his disapproval of the decision to close the shop and requesting it be reconsidered.

    He said a response by the NZ Post general manager consumer stated the closure followed a close look at customer data and that there were other stores serving the Ponsonby community, which was an unsustainable way for the business to operate.

    “Herne Bay, Hardinge Street and Wellesley Street are either a challenging walk or you hop in the car and add to the grid,” Harris said.

    “They’re only thinking about the sustainability of the New Zealand Post itself not the community.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Understanding the decline in FCAS prices in Australia – GridBeyond

    Source: GridBeyond

    Sydney, 10 June 2025 – In recent years, Frequency Control Ancillary Services (FCAS) have provided a lucrative revenue stream for many I&C energy users. But recent FCAS prices have seen a significant decline. In its latest White Paper, Understanding the decline in FCAS prices, energy technology company GridBeyond explores the reasons why FCAS prices have fallen and what businesses can do to recoup lost revenues.

    According to the latest Quarterly Energy Dynamics report (covering Q1 2025), published by AEMO, total FCAS costs reached $13M in Q1 2025, representing approximately 0.3% of the total cost of consumed energy* for the quarter. This marks a $16M decrease compared to the same period last year. This reduction was mainly driven by lower FCAS prices and a smaller number of volatility events during the quarter, relative to last year. In the same time period BESS output increased by 86% year-on-year in the NEM, reaching an average of 98MW . The significant decline in FCAS prices reflects the impact of increased battery storage capacity and evolving market dynamics. But although FCAS prices are decreasing, energy prices will stay high providing an opportunity for businesses to recoup lost revenues, with the right technology.

    While falling FCAS prices present a challenge, they also mark a shift in how value is created in the evolving energy ecosystem. There are still strategic pathways for I&C businesses to recoup lost revenue. The key for I&C businesses is to shift from passive participation in legacy markets to proactively stacking value. Businesses that embrace this change can recoup lost value and capture even greater returns in the long run – says the report.

    In conclusion, demand side response and process optimisation can allow businesses to identify real flexibility opportunities, enable more informed decision-making in optimising energy and creating a more efficient and cost-effective energy strategy.

    About GridBeyond

    GridBeyond’s vision is to deliver a global zero carbon future. By leveraging AI, we innovate and collaborate with our customers to create optimal value from energy generation, demand and storage to deliver a zero-carbon future. By bridging the gap between distributed energy resources and electricity markets, GridBeyond’s technology means every connected asset – whether utility-scale renewables generation, battery storage, or industrial load – can be utilized to help maximize opportunities and enhance the grid. By intelligently dispatching flexibility into the right market, at the right time, asset owners and energy consumers unlock new revenues and savings, resilience, and management of price volatility, while supporting the transition to a Net Zero future.

    For more information, visit www.gridbeyond.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s refined tax refund policy fuels inbound consumption

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China saw a vibrant surge in inbound consumption following the rollout of its refined tax-refund-upon-departure policy, with notable increases in both the number of tax refund stores and the total amount refunded.

    Between April 27 and May 26, the number of departure tax refund transactions processed by the country’s tax authorities jumped 116 percent year on year, and sales at tax refund stores climbed 56 percent, the State Taxation Administration said on Tuesday.

    The country has expanded its refund-upon-purchase service model nationwide, with the number of related transactions increasing 32-fold and sales surging 50-fold year on year, according to data released by the administration.

    Driven by the new policy measures, 1,303 new departure tax refund stores were established across the country during the period, raising the total to 5,196, which was a 40 percent increase from the end of 2024, the data shows.

    This rise in inbound consumption is a result of China’s latest efforts to encourage foreign tourist spending. On April 27, the country introduced a package of measures to optimize its departure tax refund policy, including measures lowering the minimum purchase threshold for refunds, raising the cash refund ceiling, expanding the network of participating stores, and broadening the range of products covered.

    China is also promoting a refund-upon-purchase service model, allowing eligible tourists to receive tax refunds instantly at retail outlets rather than waiting until they leave the country.

    International tourists in China can now claim a tax refund if they spend at least 200 yuan (about 27.84 U.S. dollars) at a single store in a single day and meet other relevant requirements, with refunds payable in multiple forms, including mobile, bank and cash payments. The upper limit for cash refunds has been raised to 20,000 yuan.

    China’s metropolises led this shopping surge. In the month following the policy rollout, Shanghai saw an 86 percent year-on-year increase in sales involving tax refund transactions and a 77 percent rise in the total amount refunded, according to local tax authorities.

    With a raised cash refund ceiling and a lowered minimum purchase threshold for refunds, the new policy allows shoppers from overseas to enjoy benefits across a wide range of products, from high-end goods to everyday items like clothing, said Chen Xiaoling, general manager of Shanghai’s Florentia Village outlet mall. The policy has made shopping in China more convenient and yielded better value for money for international visitors, Chen noted.

    This streamlined refund process has boosted shopping enthusiasm among international tourists.

    At WF Central, which is a luxury mall on Beijing’s popular Wangfujing shopping street, a large banner promoting the refund-upon-purchase tax service hangs prominently in the central atrium. This service is now available at nearly 40 international-brand stores in the mall.

    Alice, a tourist from the United States visiting her family in China, recently purchased a watch and applied for a tax refund immediately after. She presented her passport along with her shopping and departure details at the service counter, and received her refund within minutes. It was her first time purchasing luxury goods in China, and she found the service to be convenient, she said.

    Plaza 66 in Shanghai regards the refund-upon-purchase service as an important engine to boost its market competitiveness and strengthen its international profile. As of May 27, the mall has processed over 280 refund-upon-purchase transactions — already exceeding the whole-year total for 2024.

    China is accelerating development of international consumption center cities to stimulate inbound spending. The country is working to transform five cities — Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin and Chongqing — into major centers for shopping.

    Also to stimulate inbound consumption, China will increase its number of duty-free stores and expand the range of products eligible for the refund-upon-purchase service, particularly high-tech digital goods such as smartphones, smartwatches and small household appliances, as well as items that are popular among younger consumers, Shi Zeyi, an official of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, said last month.

    China’s Vice Commerce Minister Sheng Qiuping recently stated that China will continue to improve its international consumption environment, increase its supply of high-quality products, and create more diversified consumption scenarios to boost inbound consumption. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Michael Hill, MyHouse, and Hairhouse Online pay penalties over alleged misleading Black Friday ‘sitewide’ sales

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Three major retailers have paid penalties for allegedly making false and misleading representations about their Black Friday sales. Each retailer paid a penalty of $19,800 after the ACCC issued them with one infringement notice each.

    This follows an ACCC sweep of dozens of sales advertisements for last year’s Black Friday and post-Christmas sales events which identified concerns that the ads misrepresented the size and scope of discounts being offered to consumers.

    The ACCC issued one infringement notice each to Michael Hill Jeweller (Australia) Pty Ltd (Michael Hill), Global Retail Brands Australia Pty Ltd (GRBA) in relation to its homewares business MyHouse, and Hairhouse Warehouse Online Pty Ltd (Hairhouse Online) which operates the Hairhouse hair and beauty website, because the ACCC alleged that the businesses were misrepresenting the nature of their sales, including by falsely describing discounts as applying ‘sitewide’.

    “We allege these claims misled consumers that all goods in the physical or online store were discounted, or that the discounts were greater than was actually the case,” ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.

    “Advertisements that talk about ‘sitewide’ or ‘storewide’ sales or promise discounts ‘off everything’ should deliver what customers expect, and not be used by retailers to hook consumers under false pretences.”

    “Businesses are legally obliged to accurately describe their sale offers and should not use small point disclaimers to terms and conditions to disguise the real extent of their offers,” Ms Lowe said.

    “During the EOFY sales, retailers should be aware that we will continue to keep an eye on sales promotions to ensure consumers are not being misled, and retailers may face enforcement action if they make sales representations that contravene the Australian Consumer Law.”

    Michael Hill pays penalty for “25% off Sitewide” sale ad

    Jewellery business Michael Hill, a subsidiary of Michael Hill International Limited (ASX: MHJ), has paid one infringement notice issued by the ACCC, totalling $19,800 in relation to an alleged misleading representation about its Black Friday sale.

    Its online advertisement promoted the sale with the words ‘Member Event 25% off Sitewide’.

    “Michael Hill’s statement may have misled consumers, and contravened the Australian Consumer Law, because some of the products in its online store were not part of the sale and were not discounted,” Ms Lowe said.

    MyHouse pays penalty amid ACCC concern its ad was misleading

    Homewares retailer GRBA paid its $19,800 penalty after the ACCC issued it with one infringement notice in relation to its MyHouse store’s online Black Friday sale ad which the ACCC alleges was misleading.

    The ad displayed on the MyHouse website during the sale included:

    • a ribbon banner stating ‘Black Friday Up to 60% Off Sitewide + EXTRA 20% off’; and
    • a large headline graphic stating ‘Up to 60% OFF RRP EVERYTHING ON SALE’ followed by the text ‘+EXTRA 20% OFF’

    “We say this was misleading because the extra 20 per cent discount was not available on all of its products,” Ms Lowe said.

    “Retailers need to ensure that their advertising makes it clear to consumers which products are discounted, and by how much.”

    Hairhouse Online allegedly misleads consumers with ‘Save 20% to 50% sitewide’ ads

    Hairhouse Online paid one infringement notice of $19,800, in relation to its online ad for its Black Friday sale with the statement: ‘SAVE 20% to 50% SITEWIDE’.

    The ACCC considered the statement misled consumers that all items on its website would be discounted by between 20 and 50 per cent for the duration of the Black Friday sale, when in fact more than a quarter of the products on its website were not included in the sale offer.

    “Businesses that make false discount claims not only risk misleading consumers, they also compete unfairly against other businesses which correctly state the nature of their sales,” Ms Lowe said.

    Notes to editors

    The ACCC can issue an infringement notice when it has reasonable grounds to believe a person or business has contravened certain consumer protection provisions in the Australian Consumer Law.

    The payment of a penalty specified in an infringement notice is not an admission of a contravention of the Australian Consumer Law. The Australian Consumer Law sets the penalty amount.

    Background

    Michael Hill Jeweller (Australia) Pty Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Michael Hill International Limited which has its headquarters in Brisbane. The Michael Hill retail group is a specialty retailer of jewellery which operates about 170 bricks-and-mortar stores in Australia and also operates in New Zealand and Canada.

    Homewares business MyHouse is operated by homewares and kitchen goods retailer GRBA as an online business and in 28 physical stores in Australia. GRBA also operates a range of similar businesses such as House, Robins Kitchen, House Bed & Bath and Baccarat.

    Hairhouse Online is a related entity of The Hairhouse Warehouse Pty Ltd, a private company based in Melbourne with 125 stores across Australia, offering haircuts, hair extensions spray tans, manicures, waxing, make-up and other hair and beauty services.

    In December 2024, following a sweep of advertisements, the ACCC raised concerns about a range of concerning practices in Black Friday sales promotions, from ‘sitewide’ discounts that were not in fact sitewide, potentially misleading ‘was/now’ pricing, as well as dubious claims about the value of discounts on offer.

    One of the ACCC’s Compliance and Enforcement Priorities for 2025-26 is ‘consumer and fair trading concerns in the supermarket and retail sectors, with a focus on misleading pricing practices’.

    MIL OSI News –