NewzIntel.com

Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI China: China imposes anti-dumping duties on imports of cypermethrin from India

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

    China will levy anti-dumping duties on imports of cypermethrin originating in India for a period of five years from Wednesday, China’s Ministry of Commerce said on Tuesday.

    An investigation has shown that imports of cypermethrin from India have involved dumping, which caused substantial damage to the domestic cypermethrin industry, and determined a causal link between these dumping practices and material injury.

    Anti-dumping duty rates will range from 48.4 percent to 166.2 percent.

    Cypermethrin is used primarily in the agriculture sector to produce insecticides for pest control in the cultivation of cotton, fruit trees, vegetables, tobacco, corn and flowers. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Britain’s services sector contracts in April, ending 17-month growth streak

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

    The United Kingdom’s (UK) services sector contracted in April, marking the end of a 17-month expansion streak amid mounting global economic uncertainty.

    The S&P Global UK Services Purchasing Managers Business Activity Index fell to 49 in April, down from 52.5 in March, according to data released Tuesday by S&P Global.

    The decline follows modest growth in the first quarter of 2025. While many firms continued to cite weak domestic demand, the survey highlighted a notable drop in new work from overseas markets.

    Export activity was particularly subdued, with new business from abroad falling at the steepest rate since February 2021.

    “Survey respondents often commented on the impact of global financial market turbulence in the wake of U.S. tariff announcements,” said Tim Moore, economics director at S&P Global Market Intelligence.

    Business expectations for the year ahead deteriorated sharply, as service providers braced for a prolonged period of global economic volatility and increased recession risks, Moore added.

    The data also showed that the S&P Global UK PMI Composite Output Index fell to 48.5 in April from 51.5 in March, slipping below the neutral 50 threshold for the first time in 18 months. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “HOUSE REPUBLICANS ARE DETERMINED TO JAM A RECKLESS AND EXTREME BUDGET DOWN THE THROATS OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference with Whip Clark, Ranking Member Boyle, Ranking Member Pallone and Ranking Member Craig after House Democrats filed a discharge petition on the Hands Off Medicaid and SNAP Act to protect the healthcare and nutritional assistance of hardworking Americans from devastating Republican cuts.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Good afternoon, everyone. It’s an honor and a privilege today to be joined by House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, Frank Pallone, the once and future Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, who of course is the leading champion in the House Democratic Caucus, in the Congress, for the healthcare of the American people. Certainly, Angie Craig, the top Democrat on the Ag Committee, who’s doing a tremendous job. And, of course, Brendan Boyle, the future Chair of the Budget Committee, who has been our point person on budget reconciliation. House Republicans are determined to jam a reckless and extreme budget down the throats that the American people that will enact the largest cut to Medicaid and the largest cut to SNAP in American history. Children, families, women, veterans, older Americans, people with disabilities and everyday Americans will be hurt. These proposed cuts to Medicaid and SNAP are unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American. Several so-called swing seat and moderate Republicans have indicated that they are opposed to these devastating proposed cuts to SNAP and Medicaid.

    House Democrats earlier today, led by Brendan Boyle in terms of the discharge petition and Frank Pallone and Angie Craig as it relates to the underlying legislation Hands Off Medicaid and SNAP, have given Republicans an opportunity to actually not simply talk about defending the best interests of the American people, but be about it. The discharge petition is now live on the House Floor. All we need are four Republicans to do the right thing, stand up for Medicaid and stand up for SNAP so they can stand up for the American people and we can stop the devastating cuts that Republicans are proposing to the healthcare of the American people and cuts that would literally take food out of the mouths of children and families. Hands Off Medicaid and SNAP. I thank Frank Pallone, Angie Craig and Brendan Boyle for their leadership on this effort. All we need are four House Republicans to join Democrats, in protecting the healthcare and nutritional assistance of the American people.

    Full press conference can be watched here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Business No.1 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Business No.1 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, May 7, 2025)

    In order to implement a moderately accommodative monetary policy and strengthen support for the real economy, starting from May 8, 2025, the interest rate on 7-day reverse repo operations will be adjusted to 1.40 percent from the previous 1.50 percent. The interest rates on 14-day reverse repo operations, and on ad hoc repo and reverse repo operations will continue to be priced based on the 7-day reverse repo rate with the spread over the rate kept unchanged.

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年05月07日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, US officials to meet on trade this week

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

    Beijing confirmed on Wednesday that its top trade negotiator will meet with his US counterpart during a visit to Switzerland this week but issued a pointed warning: dialogue must be genuine, not a cover for continued pressure and unilateral demands.

    In Washington, US Treasury Department Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced that they will meet with their Chinese counterparts for talks.

    The conversations mark the first official public engagement between the world’s two largest economies after Trump administration’s decision of imposing hefty tariffs on China imports plunged the two into a trade war.

    In a statement issued early on Wednesday, China’s Ministry of Commerce said that senior US officials have repeatedly signaled adjustments to its tariff measures and conveyed messages through multiple channels, expressing a desire to engage with China on tariffs and related issues.

    “After careful evaluation of these US overtures and on the basis of fully considering global expectations, China’s interests, and the appeals of US industry and consumers, China has decided to re-engage the US,” a spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said in the statement.

    The statement said that Vice-Premier He Lifeng, China’s lead representative on economic and trade issues, will hold talks with Bessent during his May 9-12 trip.

    In Washington, Bessent confirmed in an interview that they would meet on Saturday and Sunday.

    But Beijing made clear that it is entering the talks with caution. “If the US wants to talk, our door is always open,” a ministry spokesperson said. “But if you say one thing and do another, or even to attempt to use talks as a cover to continue coercion and extortion, China will never agree, let alone sacrifice its principled position and international fairness and justice to seek any agreement.”

    The spokesperson noted that negotiations must be grounded in “mutual respect, equal consultation and mutual benefit”.

    The ministry’s statement cited an old Chinese saying: “We must not only listen to what they say but also watch what they do,” warning that any future agreement would depend on Washington’s sincerity and actions — not just its words.

    The statement also carries a message to other economies that are engaging with Washington. “Appeasement does not bring peace, and compromise does not earn respect,” it said, adding that only by adhering to principles, fairness, and justice can one truly safeguard interests.

    Ahead of the planned meeting in Switzerland, Bessent said he looked forward to “productive talks”.

    He said the US and China had to de-escalate before they can move forward with trade negotiations.

    “My sense is that this will be about de-escalation, not about the big trade deal, but we’ve got to de-escalate before we can move forward,” Bessent said in an interview on Fox News on Tuesday.

    He also said “the current tariffs and trade barriers are unsustainable, but we don’t want to decouple”.

    In his first 100 days in office since Jan 20, US President Donald Trump has announced sweeping tariffs, starting with a 10 percent blanket duty on all foreign-made imports.

    Dozens of countries received a 90-day pause until July, but tariffs were raised to 145 percent on products from China, which has retaliated by imposing 125 percent levies on US goods.

    Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics in Washington, said the Switzerland meeting is very important, and that “the news would be warmly welcomed by the financial markets and trading firms”.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consumer NZ – This Mother’s Day, give the gift of scam protection and digital confidence

    Source: Consumer NZ

    Now is a great time to brush up on digital hygiene or share advice with someone you care about – in your family, workplace or social circle.

    “When it comes to showing someone you care for them, a bunch of flowers is nice – but helping protect them from scams and digital threats might be the most powerful gift you could give,” says Sahar Lone, Consumer NZ’s communications and campaigns manager.

    “Many of us act as unofficial tech support for the mother figures in our lives. Mother’s Day is a great time to sit down together and set up some simple protections or share some tips to the family group chat. It’s a free, practical and genuinely caring gesture.”

    Consumer’s latest Sentiment Tracker results show that 56% of New Zealand households have been targeted by scams in the last year. Notably, high-value losses are growing – 34% of scam victims lost over $1,000, up from 26% last year.

    With scams becoming more sophisticated – from fake parcel tracking texts to the rise of ‘Hi Mum’ impersonation scams – it’s important to have these conversations, says Lone.

    “These chats can feel awkward, but they don’t have to be. One way that works for a lot of people is to tell a story – whether it’s yours or someone else’s – to share, not shame.”
     
    The Financial Crime Prevention Network found people aged 50 years and older are a bit more common in scam victim data, but all age groups are affected.

    “Scams affect New Zealanders of all ages and backgrounds – not just older individuals or those who aren’t tech-savvy. While women are slightly more likely to fall victim, no one is immune” says Lone.

    So, yes, helping your mum with scam protections is a gift to her – but also a way to protect your whole whānau from messy financial fallout.

    Seven tips to share this Mother’s Day.

    Set up two-factor authentication for accounts like banking, email and social media. This extra layer of protection sends a code to your phone or email to log in. Make sure the phone number you give is a mobile – not a landline.

    Use a password manager. These tools store and generate strong passwords, so you don’t have to remember them.

    “You only need to remember one password, the ‘vault’ password,” says Lone. “And if you write it down, don’t label it. Just stash it away somewhere safe.”

    Don’t reuse passwords. A password manager makes it easy to create unique passwords for every site, limiting the amount of thinking you have to do.

    Avoid clicking links in emails or texts. “Even if it looks legit, go to the website directly instead of clicking a link that someone has sent you,” says Lone.

    Check that account names and numbers match. Major banks offer confirmation of payee, a service that can help make sure your money goes to the right person. If there’s a partial match, no match, or other issue, check the details and only pay if you’re sure they’re correct. If you proceed without a full match, you risk sending the money to the wrong account and may never get it back.

    Only buy from trusted sites and check the URL. Scammers often use social media marketplaces and create fake websites. According to the State of Scams in New Zealand 2024 report by New Zealand’s online safety organisation Netsafe and the Global Anti-Scam Alliance, scammers use Gmail, Facebook and WhatsApp as their go-to platforms.

    Make a family scam plan. “My mum and I agreed I’ll never contact her about money in writing, only in person. That gives us both peace of mind,” says Lone.

    And while you’re on the topic, take the opportunity to talk with the whole whānau about how they’d respond to a scam, including the following steps.

    If something feels off, act quickly. Contact your bank, report the incident to the National Cyber Security Centre’s response team, CERT NZ, and if needed, reach out to the police, a lawyer or the Banking Ombudsman Scheme.

    Go to Netsafe or CERT NZ for free scam information and support.

    Sign our Stamp out scams petition and help apply pressure to government to introduce a national scam framework in New Zealand that will hold businesses to account: https://consumernz.cmail19.com/t/i-l-fhildll-ijjdkdttjk-j/

    About Consumer

    Consumer NZ is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to championing and empowering consumers in Aotearoa. Consumer NZ has a reputation for being fair, impartial and providing comprehensive consumer information and advice.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Members appointed to the PM’s Science, Innovation and Technology Advisory Council

    Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment MBIE (2)

    The members are:

    • Merryn Tawhai
    • Sir Peter Gluckman
    • Craig Piggott
    • Komal Mistry-Mehta
    • Malcolm Johns
    • Dr John Roche, who was also announced as the new Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor.

    The chair of the council is the Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti. Dr John Roche will be Deputy Chair. Biographies of the members will be published soon.

    Collectively, the members bring a whole-of-economy perspective to the investment decisions made in our Science, Innovation and Technology system. Members are nominated for 3 years and can hold a maximum of 2 terms.

    This council, announced as part of the science reforms earlier this year, will be focussed on ensuring our science system is driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for New Zealanders now and into the future. This will involve:

    • identifying focused priorities
    • identifying areas that could be deprioritised
    • identifying opportunities for commercialisation
    • ensuring that the science, innovation and technology system is aligned with New Zealand’s economic strategy.

    MBIE will be secretariat and will soon arrange an initial meeting.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WA joins 11 states seeking answers from federal consumer bureau over restitution delays

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Washington Attorney General Nick Brown and leaders from 11 other states today are pressing the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to issue long-delayed restitution to victims of a predatory tech sales program.

    In a letter sent today to the CFPB’s acting director, the multistate coalition details how a court order against Prehired LLC for illegal, deceptive and abusive practices resulted in $4.2 million in restitution for some 660 consumers nationwide, yet unexplained delays at the agency level are keeping those checks from being distributed. The court order came in November 2023 and the states worked with the CFPB toward allocating the funds. The CFPB announced the allocation in May 2024.

    States received regular updates throughout 2024 regarding the federal government’s progress on distributing these funds to Prehired’s victims. But in February of this year, the CFPB stopped providing information about the process.

    “Prehired’s victims include consumers from each of our respective states…and nearly every other state in the nation,” the letter reads. “The CFPB committed to provide relief to these consumers when it made the allocation from the Civil Penalty Fund. During these increasingly difficult economic times, hundreds of Americans look to your leadership to deliver on this commitment.”

    Washington state sued the South Carolina company and its founder in 2022 for violating Washington’s Consumer Protection Act, Private Vocational Schools Act, and Collection Agency Act. The state alleged Prehired used deceptive marketing tactics to lure Washingtonians into paying up to $30,000 for Prehired’s unlicensed online sales training program. Most students could not afford to pay, and Prehired offered them income-share loans, which it represented were not loans.

    The company “guaranteed” students would land tech sales jobs paying $60,000 or more. Meanwhile, the company demanded monthly payments from students who were earning far less. When students failed to pay on massive debt from the program, Prehired pursued aggressive collection techniques such as filing lawsuits and initiating arbitration proceedings against students across the country.

    The state later joined other state attorneys general along with the CFPB in a consumer protection enforcement action against Prehired, resulting in the court order that Prehired return $4.2 million to those who made payments on the company’s loans.

    The letter urges the CFPB to respond with a timeframe in which the agency plans to distribute the funds to victims as expected, saying the states and impacted consumers deserve an explanation as to why justice has been delayed.

    Joining Washington in the letter are the states of Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, and the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation.

    A copy of the letter is available here.

    -30-

     

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: LECTRA: Monthly declaration of the total number of shares and voting rights composing the company’s capital (at April 30th, 2025)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Monthly declaration of the total number of shares and voting rights composing the company’s capital (at April 30th, 2025)

    This declaration is established in accordance with Article L.233-8 II of the French Code de Commerce and of Article 223-11 of the Règlement Général of the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF).

    Date:

    April 30th, 2025

    Total number of shares composing the capital:

    38,031,957

    Total number of voting rights, gross (1):

    38,222,107

    Total number of voting rights, net (2):

    38,187,634

    (1) In accordance with the second paragraph of article 223-11 of the Règlement Général of the AMF, the gross total of voting rights is based on the total number of shares composing the company’s capital which have voting rights, including shares deprived of their voting rights

    (2) The net total of voting rights is equal to the gross total, minus the number of shares deprived of their voting rights (treasury shares)

    Other than the legal notification requirements for crossing the thresholds established by French law, there is no special statutory obligation.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: FillaRole Launches AI-Powered Hiring Platform to Transform Canadian Employment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SASKATOON, Saskatchewan, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canadian businesses now have a smarter, faster way to hire—thanks to FillaRole. Officially launched in beta earlier this year, the AI-powered platform is now fully available across the country and has already attracted more than 40,000 job applicants and 90,000 users.

    Unlike traditional job boards that leave hiring teams buried under piles of unqualified resumes, FillaRole is purpose-built to simplify employment. The platform combines advanced artificial intelligence with real human support to instantly organize, rank, and categorize applicants by location and fit. With growing national attention, FillaRole recently earned a coveted spot in VentureLAB’s Accelerated Growth Program, which supports high-potential Canadian tech companies that are redefining their industries.

    Built for Real-World Employers, Not Recruiters

    “Business owners don’t have time to babysit job boards. You post a job, get flooded with resumes, and hope for the best,” said Keli Propp, CEO of FillaRole. “Platforms like Indeed or ZipRecruiter leave you doing all the work. FillaRole actually cares if you succeed. Whether you need one great local hire or a shortlist of candidates from across the country, or across the globe, we make it easy.”

    FillaRole is a three-generation, family-owned and operated Canadian job platform. While designed for employers of all sizes and industries, it has proven especially successful in the construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and healthcare sector—where hiring is often urgent, but rarely anyone’s full-time job. The company has recently gained high-profile support through its new strategic advisor, Jon Reyes, former Cabinet Minister for the Province of Manitoba, who brings valuable credibility and deep insight into workforce policy and immigration strategy.

    Key Features That Save Time and Stress

    Getting started on average takes just seven minutes. Employers sign-up for free, answer a few quick questions, and FillaRole’s team and technology take it from there. Key features include:

    • One-click posting to 19+ job boards – Maximize visibility in a single step.
    • AI-powered matching – Candidates are instantly ranked by fit and location, saving hours.
    • Human support when you need it – From writing job ads to scheduling interviews.
    • Performance reporting in 48 hours – Know what’s working and where to adjust.
    • Local talent first – Prioritizes qualified candidates near you, with the ability to tap into global talent when needed.
    • Immigration-ready talent access – For hard-to-fill roles, access over 40,000 skilled workers through a trusted partner with a 99.5% success rate.

    Built for Local Talent, Ready for the World

    FillaRole operates on the principle of “Hire Near. Hire FaR.” While the platform emphasizes securing local talent, it also recognizes that sometimes local talent isn’t available. In such cases, FillaRole provides seamless, compliant, and stress-free access to global talent through its partnerships with various vetted Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) across Canada.

    Job seekers also benefit from FillaRole’s streamlined approach. Whether they’re Canadian residents or immigration-ready professionals, candidates can register and get matched with real job opportunities that align with their skills and experience. They’ll also receive ongoing push notifications when new, relevant roles are posted—no more sifting through outdated listings.

    FillaRole is a comprehensive solution designed to give businesses a competitive edge in today’s job market. By combining convenience, efficiency, and AI precision, FillaRole delivers better candidates, less time wasted, and a hiring experience built around how real businesses operate.

    “Our clients don’t care about buttons and dashboards. They just want good people and less stress,” said Propp. “We built FillaRole to deliver exactly that.”

    Employers can sign up today or request a demo at www.fillarole.ca.

    About FillaRole
    FillaRole is an AI-powered hiring platform developed to simplify employment for Canadian businesses. By automating job postings and applicant sorting, FillaRole enables employers to save time, improve efficiency, and focus on hiring the right talent. Proudly Canadian, FillaRole supports both local and international hiring with expert guidance every step of the way. To learn more, visit www.fillarole.ca.

    Media Contact:
    Keli Propp
    CEO, FillaRole
    Email: keli@fillarole.ca
    Phone: 306-900-6899

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The UK is falling behind in tackling microplastic pollution – here are three ways the government can catch up

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Antaya March, Director – Global Plastics Policy Centre, University of Portsmouth

    SIVStockStudio/Shutterstock

    Microplastics – fragments of plastic smaller than 5mm – are accumulating in the environment. They’re found in soil, water, food, even in human lungs, placentas and blood. These plastic particles shed from items we use daily, such as synthetic clothes, tyres, plastic packaging and paint.

    Scientists, medical professionals and environmental bodies have raised growing concern about the potential impacts of microplastics on environments and human health. Studies suggest that microplastics could affect soil health, reduce food productivity and compromise ecosystem functioning. As a result, economic growth may be hindered.

    Some nations are acting. French regulations require that filters are put on new washing machines to capture microfibres. The EU has recently targeted microplastic inputs from artificial turf and paint and has passed rules to limit microplastic discharges in wastewater treatment.

    US states are beginning to regulate microplastic contamination in drinking water. In fact, California has set some of the world’s first safe water testing requirements for microplastic contamination.

    Yet, the UK hasn’t kept pace. There is still no national plan to reduce emissions. There are no legal targets for reducing microplastic pollution, no limits and no timeline for action. The only regulation to date (a 2017 ban on microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics) addresses just a fraction of the problem. Microbeads only account for less than 5% of the microplastics ending up in the environment.

    With evidence building and risks mounting, the UK urgently needs a more coordinated response. Drawing on insights from leading UK scientists and policy experts, here are three ways the UK can begin to close the gap.

    1. A national roadmap

    The UK has no coordinated plan to reduce microplastic pollution. Microplastics are mentioned in several UK government strategies – such as the Plan for Water and Environmental Improvement Plan – but these don’t have clear targets, timelines or regulatory action.

    A national roadmap can tackle the problem more effectively by expanding the narrow scope of the microbeads ban to cover major sources of both primary (intentionally manufactured) and secondary microplastics (produced from the breakdown of larger plastics).

    To make this feasible, design standards for plastic products need to focus on reducing microplastics shedding upstream, rather than relying on clean-up alone.

    As with any effective regulation, measurable targets to reduce microplastics entering the environment can be paired with a programme for monitoring – so human exposure and microplastic levels in air, water and soil can be tracked to assess whether policies are working.

    2. Regulate the biggest sources

    The ban on microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics was an important early step, but it only scratches the surface. Most microplastic pollution comes from larger, less visible sources: car tyres, synthetic textiles, paint and fertilisers made from sewage sludge. These everyday sources account for most microplastic emissions, yet remain largely unregulated in the UK.



    Read more:
    Car tyres shed a quarter of all microplastics in the environment – urgent action is needed

    By making manufacturers responsible for the highest levels of microplastic pollution, a widespread industry shift can be achieved. That includes setting standards to reduce fibres shedding from textiles and requiring filters in washing machines, addressing tyre wear and road runoff in the transport sector and phasing out the use of contaminated sludge and plastic mulch films in agriculture. These are not distant or unrealistic goals. Many could be achieved by updating existing waste, water and environmental regulations.

    Paint is a big source of microplastics.
    r.classen/Shutterstock

    To date, the government has eschewed precaution and tended to shelve action where evidence of harm is still emerging. While research continues to evolve, existing scientific evidence provides a strong basis for meaningful policy actions today. What’s missing is a shift in focus – from marginal sources to the main drivers – and the political will to prioritise real reductions over symbolic moves.

    3. Tackle plastic production

    Most microplastics begin as larger plastic products that slowly break down over time. We need to reduce how much plastic is produced and used in the first place.

    The UK government’s stated aims for creating an economy in which less resources are used overall there is greater reuse of existing resources (otherwise known as a circular economy) focus on reducing waste and improving material use, but they don’t yet address how overproduction of plastics contributes to microplastic pollution.

    Setting targets to cut the volume of single-use plastic on the market would help prevent microplastics polluting the environment. Simplifying how products are designed and labelled can also enable safer disposal, reuse or recycling and reduce how much plastic breaks up.

    At the same time, alternatives (including biodegradable or bio-based plastics) must be carefully assessed. Without proper oversight, these substitutes risk repeating many of the same problems. Reducing plastic demand remains one of the most effective ways to tackle the microplastics crisis at its root. Consumers can also help by supporting policies that reduce plastic use and choosing to buy products that don’t produce as many microplastics.

    With microplastics now pervasive across ecosystems, waiting for more evidence risks further accumulation. Setting clear targets and strengthening regulation in the sectors that contribute most to emissions is essential.

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

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

    Antaya March receives funding from the Flotilla Foundation.

    Stephanie Northen receives funding from the Flotilla Foundation.

    – ref. The UK is falling behind in tackling microplastic pollution – here are three ways the government can catch up – https://theconversation.com/the-uk-is-falling-behind-in-tackling-microplastic-pollution-here-are-three-ways-the-government-can-catch-up-255465

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to California Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Lake Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in California of the June 6 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the Lake Fire which occurred July 5‑Aug. 4, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the California counties of Kern, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNP organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They 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 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.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs 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.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than June 6.

    ###

    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, 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: Capgemini confirms its ESG commitment with an updated policy and enhanced objectives

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Sereydana Oum
    Tel.: +33 6 61 42 03 59
    E-mail: sereydana.oum@capgemini.com

    Capgemini confirms its ESG commitment with an updated policy
    and enhanced objectives

    As a responsible organization, Capgemini remains committed to the ESG priorities set out in 2021 while unveiling new ambitious targets

    Paris, May 6, 2025– Capgemini has updated its ESG policy and objectives set in 2021, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth, responsible business practices, and corporate accountability. The updated policy builds on the 8 priorities defined in 2021, adding a 9thfocused on ethics, and outlines 14 objectives. It further demonstrates the Group’s dedication to addressing global challenges while respecting local regulations and creating long-term value for stakeholders.

    Capgemini intends to drive progress and lead in the transition to a more sustainable economy. As part of its ESG policy set in 2021, the Group has already reached many objectives and will continue to build on this momentum through its updated ESG Policy. Some notable achievements include, as of end 2024:

    • Reducing its absolute Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 93% and Business Travel emissions (Scope 3) by 62% per employee compared to 2019, already achieving its objectives for 2030 (-80% for absolute scope 1 and 2 emissions and -55% per employee for Business Travel emissions);
    • Achieving a 98% share of renewable energy in the Group’s electricity consumption, in line with its objective to reach 100% in 2025;
    • Increasing women’s representation in the global workforce to 39.7%, for an objective of 40% in 2025, reflecting an increase of almost 7 points since 2019. Furthermore, women now account for 29% of the Group executive leadership positions, up from 17% in 2019, in line with its objective of 30% in 2025;
    • Reaching an average of 77 learning hours per employee, significantly above the objective set of an increase of 5% each year since 2019;
    • Demonstrating its leadership in data protection and cybersecurity with the recognition of external rating agencies (Bitsight, RiskRecon and Cybervadis).

    The updated ESG Policy forms the basis for the Group’s sustainability priorities and will continue to be embedded in its activities and offerings by leveraging technology, human capital, and alliances with key partners:

    • The Group has added an investment commitment in high-quality carbon credits, in addition to its objective to reduce its emissions across Scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 90% to become net zero by 2040, as validated by the SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standard, reflecting its commitment to address excessive carbon in the atmosphere today.
    • In addition, the Group pledges to maintain at least 40% of women in its global workforce and raises its objective for women in global executive positions to 35% by 2030.
    • On digital inclusion, Capgemini extends its target to 10 million beneficiaries, and starting in 2025, will be aligning its reporting method to industry leading B4SI1 impact framework, which focuses on the depth of impact on individuals, rather than the number of people reached through community programs only.
    • Capgemini also aims at strengthening the ethical use of AI by its employees, as this technology will deeply reshape the economies.
    • The Group aims at helping its clients achieve their sustainability commitments by enlarging its portfolio of offerings.

    “ESG is fundamental to our corporate strategy and long-term value creation. This enhanced ESG policy reflects our commitment to innovation, ethical leadership and meaningful impact in order to create a future where our teams, our clients and our partners can thrive, in a responsible and resilient economy,” said Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer at Capgemini.

    ESG policy

    Priorities Objectives
    Environment: Protecting the planet
    1. Act on climate change and become a net zero business, by 2040
    1. Reduce our Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 90%, by 2040
    2. Scale up our investment in climate and nature solutions at a level commensurate with our total GHG emissions
    1. Lead to a sustainable economy, by helping our clients achieve their sustainability commitments
    1. Increase bookings (value) delivering sustainability benefits to our clients
    Social: Shaping a future with protection & respect for all
    1. Invest in our talents through an empowering experience
    1. Reach and maintain 70 learning hours on average per employee per year
    2. Upskill our talents on one yearly defined strategic topic
    3. Maintain our employees’ belonging index above 80
    1. Maintain high ethical standards at all times
    1. Keep over 80% of the employees with a positive perception of our values, culture, and ethical behaviors in the Group
    2. Enhance awareness and foster the adoption of Ethical AI practices
    1. Enhance inclusion in our activities
    1. Maintain at least 40% of women in our global teams and reach 35% of women in group executive leadership positions, by 2030*
    1. Support digital inclusion in our communities
    1. Support 10M beneficiaries in underserved communities through our digital inclusion programs, by 2030
    Governance: Embedding trust & transparency at every level
    1. Foster a diverse and accountable governance
    1. Maintain best-in-class corporate governance
    1. Value responsible business practices across the value chain
    1. By 2030, suppliers covering 80% of the purchase amount of the previous year will have committed to our ESG standards
    1. Protect and secure data, infrastructure, and identity
    1. Embed data protection into our culture, operations and clients’ delivery
    2. Be recognized as a front leader on cybersecurity

    * We recognize that countries must operate within their local regulatory/legal framework. The Objectives for 2030 are set at a Group level and will accelerate our Inclusion efforts.

    Find more details on the updated ESG policy: https://investors.capgemini.com/en/esg-policy/

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.
    Get the future you want | www.capgemini.com

    1 The Business for Societal Impact (B4SI) framework is aiming to create lasting change, it is globally recognized and leading in the field of social impact reporting.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Currency controls and debt in Argentina: the stakes are high if Milei’s latest economic gamble doesn’t pay off

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Matt Barlow, Lecturer International Political Economy, University of Glasgow

    Matias Lynch/Shutterstock

    In April, Argentina’s president Javier Milei partially lifted the capital and currency controls that had been in place since 2011. The move was possible with the support of a US$20 billion (£15 billion) IMF bailout and means Argentinians may now buy unlimited dollars again.

    Announcing the move in the capital Buenos Aires, Milei was flanked by American treasury secretary Scott Bessent. Milei took the opportunity to liken it to US president Donald Trump’s “liberation day”.

    While he is often associated with Trump for his abrasive rhetoric and right-wing populist support base, Milei’s liberation day was intended to reduce the role of the state in the economy – unlike the US’s approach of deepening it.

    The latest iteration of currency controls was implemented by then-president Cristina Fernández de Kirchner to try to shore up the deteriorating value of the Argentinian peso.

    The controls, known locally as el cepo (the clamp), meant that citizens and businesses were limited in the amount of foreign currency they could purchase. At the same time, they were constrained in moving money out of Argentina. This was designed as a safeguard against capital flight, but in effect it stifled inward investment.

    These measures, coupled with a centrally controlled foreign exchange rate, created a lucrative black market for US dollars. Citizens were eager to exchange cash pesos for the traditionally safer US dollar.

    The currency controls were previously lifted by another advocate for market-friendly policies, president Mauricio Macri in 2015. But they were reimposed in 2019 at the end of his term to address a fall in value of the peso.

    Unlike Macri’s broad-brush removal, Milei is phasing out the controls. He is doing so in the context of less economic volatility and a more stable national budget.

    The measures announced this time mean that rather than being fixed, the peso will be able to float between a value of 1,000–1,400 pesos (64p-87p) per US dollar. Milei’s previous policy was a crawling peg, which meant that the peso was pegged to the dollar, but it was prevented from depreciating by more than 1% each month.

    However, this was costly. The central bank had to provide the liquidity and has spent US$2.5 billion since mid-March propping up the official rate of the peso.

    Floating it means its value is determined by the currency markets. This exposes it to volatility, but the currency band provides some security and the central bank can go back to focusing on building its reserves.

    For international companies, future capital can be repatriated out of Argentina (which had been a major barrier to investment). Under the previous restrictions, any profits made by international firms could not be moved out of the country.

    And while Argentinians can now buy unlimited dollars through banks, there is still a US$100 restriction on exchanging physical cash.

    Milei’s gamble

    Analysts have called Milei’s move bold and brave, but also described it as a high-stakes gamble. Recent attempts to do the same thing ended in capital flight, near bankruptcy and ultimately the re-imposition of controls.

    But it was also a step that he promised on the campaign trail in 2023. Back then, Milei argued that economic stability and deregulation were essential to attract investment into Argentina.

    So while the Trump administration looks inwards, Milei is opening Argentina to the private sector – especially in relation to its vast natural resources including shale oil and gas, and lithium.

    Extraction of Argentina’s shale oil and gas has slowed in recent years, but attracting foreign investment in infrastructure has been high on Milei’s priority list. Business, including US energy giant Chevron, seems cautiously optimistic.

    And increased foreign investment in Argentina’s lithium mining sector has raised hopes that the country could be a linchpin in the global energy transition. But at the same time it is deepening Argentina’s dependency on finite commodities.

    But what does all this mean for Argentinians right now? For many old enough to remember, it might seem like deja vu. Opening Argentina up to the forces of the market, reducing the regulatory role of the state and privatising major state assets while borrowing more from the IMF has precedent.

    It was the same approach followed by president Carlos Menem in the 1990s. This had initial success but over the course of the decade resulted in economic disaster, unsustainable debt (leading to the 2001 IMF debt default) and pushed nearly 60% of the population into poverty.

    The US$20 billion IMF loan package (alongside other borrowing) provides Argentina’s central bank with capital to lift the currency restrictions. Adding to the IMF debt burden (which already stood at more than US$40 billion in March 2025) has so far been well received by the markets.

    But market-friendly policies being well received by the markets is surely to be expected. What might the social costs be, however?

    Milei’s programme of deep austerity included cuts to salaries and welfare payments. These initially pushed poverty levels up to 53%, their highest point in two decades. Recent figures show that, while still frighteningly high, falling inflation has helped bring this down to 38%.

    But these figures mask the desperate reality of many. Reductions in state spending and the removal of subsidies mean that income levels for workers and pensioners are below 2023 levels. Many are taking on additional and more precarious work, and soup kitchens are proving essential.

    So for many citizens, the news about the partial lifting of currency controls is a moot point. For these people, buying dollars is not remotely feasible.

    One thing Argentinians are broadly united in is their disdain for the IMF. Borrowing from it has pushed Argentina to the brink previously – Milei will be hoping that by jettisoning one anvil, his deal with the IMF won’t chain him to a heavier one.

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

    – ref. Currency controls and debt in Argentina: the stakes are high if Milei’s latest economic gamble doesn’t pay off – https://theconversation.com/currency-controls-and-debt-in-argentina-the-stakes-are-high-if-mileis-latest-economic-gamble-doesnt-pay-off-255733

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Milkshake tax’: there’s growing evidence that expanding the UK’s sugar levy could help tackle obesity

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David M. Evans, Professor of Sociotechnical Futures, University of Bristol Business School, University of Bristol

    Luis Molinero/Shutterstock

    The UK government is considering expanding its sugar tax on fizzy drinks to include milkshakes and other sweetened beverages, as part of new proposals announced in April 2025. The Treasury confirmed it plans to move forward not only with broadening the tax but also with lowering the sugar threshold that triggers it from 5g to 4g of sugar per 100ml.

    The changes, dubbed by critics as the “milkshake tax”, would end the current exemption for dairy-based drinks, as well as plant-based alternatives such as oat and rice milk. Chancellor Rachel Reeves first signalled the potential expansion in the 2024 budget, suggesting the soft drinks industry levy (SDIL), to give it its official name, could be widened to cover a broader range of high-sugar drinks.

    Based on our research into dietary change, conducted as part of the H3 project on food system transformation, we see this as a welcome and timely development.

    Not everyone shares this optimism. Opponents of what they see as “nanny state” interventionist policies argue that the SDIL has failed to deliver any real improvements to public health. In a UK newspaper’s straw poll, for example, 88% of respondents claimed the sugar tax has not significantly reduced obesity rates. Shadow Chancellor Melvyn Stride described the proposed expansion as a “sucker punch” to households, particularly given the ongoing cost of living crisis.

    Scepticism around these proposals is not surprising. Many people, regardless of political affiliation, are wary of additional taxation. And indeed, there is evidence suggesting that fiscal tools such as taxes and subsidies can be blunt instruments. They are also often regressive, placing a disproportionate burden on lower-income households.

    These concerns are valid – but they don’t quite apply to the SDIL.

    Crucially, the SDIL is not a tax on consumers. It is levied on manufacturers and importers, who are incentivised to reduce the sugar content of their products to avoid the charge. According to Treasury figures, since the introduction of the SDIL, 89% of fizzy drinks sold in the UK have been reformulated to fall below the taxable threshold.

    For instance, the Japanese multinational brewing and distilling company group Suntory invested £13 million in reformulating drinks like Ribena and Lucozade, removing 25,000 tonnes of sugar, making the products exempt from the levy. This means households aren’t priced out of soft drinks – they can simply choose reformulated and presumably cheaper versions.

    It’s true that the UK is still grappling with a serious obesity problem. In England alone, 29% of adultsand 15% of children aged two to 15 are obese.

    But the SDIL is having an effect. Excessive sugar consumption is consistently associated with rising obesity rates in the UK and globally. There has been a clear reduction in the sales of sugar from soft drinks, and the SDIL is reported to have generated £1.9 billion in revenue since its introduction in 2018.

    Early signs suggest health benefits, too. One study found a drop in obesity rates among 10 to 11-year-old girls following the levy’s implementation. Another analysis suggests that the greatest health benefits will be seen in more deprived areas, and that it may actually help to narrow some health inequalities for children in England.



    Read more:
    Child obesity is linked to deprivation, so why do poor parents still cop the blame?

    Shifting responsibilty

    The government’s 2016 announcement of the sugar tax gave manufacturers time to reformulate products before the tax’s introduction in 2018.

    Of course, the SDIL is no silver bullet. There are many contributing factors to the obesity epidemic, ranging from genetic predisposition to “obesogenic” environments – social contexts that promote unhealthy eating and sedentary behaviour, such as areas with a lot of fast food restaurants, limited access to healthy food options and a lack of pavements, parks, or safe places to exercise.

    Questions remain about the negative health effects of reformulated drinks, some of which still contain high levels of sweeteners or additives. And in the broader context of the need for food system transformation, focusing solely on soft drinks may be too narrow an approach.



    Read more:
    Are artificial sweeteners okay for our health? Here’s what the current evidence says

    But the SDIL’s success lies not just in outcomes but in its design. It shifts responsibility from individuals to industry, encouraging systemic change rather than simply blaming people for making “bad” choices. The government’s 2016 announcement of the levy gave manufacturers a two-year head start, allowing them to reformulate and get their products to market before it took effect in 2018.

    It’s also telling that the idea of taxing milkshakes has sparked such outrage, while most people now accept the high taxation of tobacco. That’s because smoking, as a public health issue, has matured: its risks are well understood and widely acknowledged. Obesity, meanwhile, is still catching up, despite posing similar health threats, including as a leading cause of cancer.

    In the UK, there’s still a strong social stigma around discussing diet and weight. But given the scale and urgency of the obesity crisis, it could be time to overcome this reluctance. Effective change will require bold, systemic policies – not just public awareness campaigns – but multipronged and targeted interventions that reshape the economic and cultural environments in which people make food choices.

    Expanding the SDIL may not be a cure-all, but the evidence so far suggests it’s a smart step in the right direction.

    David M. Evans receives funding from the UKRI Strategic Priorities Fund (grant ref: BB/V004719/1).
    He is affiliated with Defra (the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) as a member of their Social Science Expert Group.

    Jonathan Beacham receives funding from the UKRI Strategic Priorities Fund (grant ref: BB/V004719/1).

    – ref. ‘Milkshake tax’: there’s growing evidence that expanding the UK’s sugar levy could help tackle obesity – https://theconversation.com/milkshake-tax-theres-growing-evidence-that-expanding-the-uks-sugar-levy-could-help-tackle-obesity-255646

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: One Week to Go: Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 to Drive Africa’s Licensing and Gas Growth

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

    PARIS, France, May 6, 2025/APO Group/ —

    With just one week to go, the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum is set to ignite a transformative week of upstream deal-making, policy dialogue and strategic engagement. Taking place on May 13-14 in Paris, the forum will place Africa’s active licensing landscape and gas-driven development ambitions firmly at the center of global energy investment discussions.

    With over 150 oil and gas blocks being made available across more than ten African countries, 2025 is emerging as a pivotal year for upstream investment. A wave of new licensing activity is gaining momentum, with governments launching bid rounds and inviting direct negotiations to unlock exploration potential in both established and frontier basins. Countries like Angola, Libya, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Algeria and the Republic of Congo are leading the charge, supported by enhanced seismic data, digitized application systems and updated fiscal regimes designed to lower entry barriers. These licensing initiatives will be a key focus at IAE 2025, offering a dynamic venue for stakeholders to engage on concrete investment opportunities and forge new partnerships.

    IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/44r2RKf) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    IAE 2025 will showcase a powerhouse lineup of keynote speakers from both government and industry, including Bruno Jean-Ricachard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons of the Republic of Congo; Eperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) of Nigeria and Maggy Shino, Petroleum Commissioner, Minister of Mines & Energy, Namibia. From the private sector, featured speakers include Wale Tinubu CON, CEO of Oando Plc; Marco Villa, Chief Business Officer of Technip Energies and Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President at TotalEnergies. These keynote addresses will provide critical insight into evolving policies, corporate strategies and investment frameworks shaping Africa’s energy landscape. A fireside chat with Mauritania’s Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Mohamed Ould Khaled, will further explore the landmark progress of the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project and its catalytic role in driving regional gas monetization and industrial development in the region.

    During a high-level ministerial panel, African policymakers will converge to discuss “Africa on the Global Energy Stage: Financing the Next Generation of Energy Projects,” exploring how African states are positioning themselves within global energy markets and unlocking partnerships for infrastructure, technology and private sector capital. An IOC-led panel on “Advancing Africa’s LNG Potential: Overcoming Infrastructure and Investment Challenges” – featuring UTM Offshore, Golar LNG, TechnipEnergies, Perenco and Neuman & Esser – will address practical strategies for accelerating LNG projects, from modular design and FSRU deployment to cross-border value chains.

    Additional highlights include the “Monetizing Congo’s Gas Opportunities” session – featuring participation from Société nationale des pétroles du Congo and private sector players – which offers insight into emerging gas strategies and projects currently under development. A special session led by the African Union, “Financing the Transition: Unlocking Private Capital for Sustainable Development,” will address how to mobilize private investment in support of energy access, transition finance and regional integration.

    With governments, NOCs, IOCs and financial institutions from across Africa and beyond confirmed, IAE 2025 is not just a forum – it is the definitive platform for executing upstream and gas-sector strategies. As global energy stakeholders seek new frontiers for growth, Africa is putting forward its strongest case yet.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches No-KYC Crypto Trading Platform with 100x Leverage and $100 Bonus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    As the global demand for high-performance crypto trading platforms surges, BexBack, a fast-growing cryptocurrency derivatives exchange, is redefining access and opportunity for traders worldwide. With a commitment to no-KYC onboarding, up to 100x leverage, and generous promotions including a 100% deposit bonus and $100 trading bonus, BexBack is quickly emerging as a trusted platform for both seasoned investors and new entrants in the crypto space.

    Founded in Singapore and operating globally with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the U.S., and the U.K., BexBack is a FinCEN-registered MSB (Money Services Business), ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations while offering users privacy, speed, and freedom.

    “At BexBack, we believe crypto trading should be fast, secure, and accessible to everyone—regardless of where they live or what ID they have,” said Amanda, Business Manager at BexBack. “That’s why we offer no-KYC registration and tools that empower users to trade freely in today’s volatile markets.”

    Key Features That Set BexBack Apart:

    • 100x Leverage: Trade BTC, ETH, ADA, XRP, SOL, and over 50 other crypto futures with maximum capital efficiency.
    • No KYC Required: Users can register and start trading with just an email—no personal data needed.
    • Zero Spread: Transparent pricing with no hidden costs between buy/sell.
    • $100 Trading Bonus: Available to new users who deposit ≥ 0.01 BTC or 1000 USDT and complete their first trade.
    • 100% Deposit Bonus: Double your capital—bonus can be used as margin to expand trading power.
    • Demo Account: Practice risk-free with 10 BTC or 1M USDT in virtual funds.
    • 24/7 Global Support: Multi-language assistance and live chat available around the clock.
    • Robust Security: Multi-signature cold wallets, SSL encryption, 2FA, and DDoS protection safeguard user assets.
    • Fair Price Index: BexBack’s pricing is based on real-time data from Binance, Bybit, OKX, Bitget, and Kraken.

    A Platform Designed for Every Trader

    Whether you’re just beginning your crypto journey or you’re an experienced trader seeking greater privacy and performance, BexBack delivers a complete ecosystem tailored to your needs. Its intuitive interface, mobile compatibility, and educational resources make it accessible, while its high-leverage infrastructure attracts professionals aiming to capitalize on short-term market movements.

    Start Trading Today

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3067e8f-9b47-40a1-9ef2-f678f5f0d9d3

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/79202373-df68-4789-a5aa-092b370b1356

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4209e972-4590-4201-84d0-104e90226b42

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell Statement on Trump FY26 Budget Request

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    Dingell Statement on Trump FY26 Budget Request

    Washington, May 2, 2025

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s budget request for fiscal year 2026. 
     
    “Donald Trump promised to lower costs for American families on day one. Not only has he failed to keep that promise, but his proposed budget would weaken our economy, hurt working people, and make Americans less safe, all in exchange for tax cuts for billionaires. His plan would evict hundreds of thousands of seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities from their homes, slash funding for cancer and Alzheimer’s research, gut funding for job training and Small Business Administration programs, and leave communities vulnerable by reducing weather forecasting capabilities, among other outrageous proposals. This budget doesn’t eliminate waste or meet the needs of the American people, it furthers this Administration’s extreme, self-serving agenda.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: CNL Team Recognized With CNIC 2024 Ecosystem Innovation Award for Production of Promising New Medical Isotope

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHALK RIVER, Ontario, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology organization, is pleased to announce that it has been recognized by the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council (CNIC) alongside the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre and Advanced Cyclotron Systems Inc. for being the first in Canada to produce Actinium-225, a promising new medical isotope in the fight against cancer, using a cyclotron and Radium-226 targets. The team was honoured with this year’s CNIC Ecosystem Innovation Award at the annual awards ceremony held in Ottawa, Ontario on April 15th.

    The CNIC Awards are an annual celebration of the growth and success of Canadian isotope industry and the contributions and innovations of its members and leading Canadian individuals in government and industry. CNIC provides a platform for its community to nominate individuals and organizations who have demonstrated leadership and championed advocacy in the industry. Receiving the Ecosystem Innovation Award, which recognizes a major milestone or initiative in Canada’s isotope industry, recognizes CNL’s ongoing efforts to establish this first-of-a-kind production process in Canada, which brings a significant increase in the quantity of this material to market, and unlocks further research and clinical trials.

    “While Actinium-225 drugs have shown incredible potential to serve as a transformative cancer treatment, clinical trials and eventual drug approvals have been impeded by the tight supply scenario of Actinium-225,” commented Ram Mullur, CNL’s Vice-President of Isotopes. “More than seven years ago, CNL set out to address that challenge with the generator route of production of Actinium-225, and we are now moving ever-closer to industrial-scale production. This was enabled through the services and products provided by our collaborators, including the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre, and Advanced Cyclotron Systems. This achievement is also in support of Actineer, which is a joint venture founded in 2023 by ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE (ITM), a leading radiopharmaceutical biotech company, and CNL. On behalf of CNL, I want to thank the CNIC for recognizing CNL, our collaborators and partners, and the people who are working so hard to bring this vision to life.”

    “The Fedoruk Centre is proud to participate in this achievement with CNL. The work depended on access to the Saskatchewan Cyclotron Facility, which is owned by the University of Saskatchewan and operated by the Fedoruk Centre. Together, we have advanced the production of an exciting new medical isotope here in Canada,” commented John Root, Executive Director of the Fedoruk Centre. “We must thank the federal and provincial governments who funded the cyclotron and infrastructure to make this innovation possible.”

    “The first demonstration of Actinium-225 production by CNL using ACSI’s TR-24 Cyclotron and targetry system is an important milestone for both organisations. I believe that we will continue this successful collaboration in developing technology that will help in achieving worldwide reliable supply of Actinium-225,” stated Richard Eppich, President and CEO of ACSI.

    CNL is currently working as part of a network of organizations to establish a reliable, industrial-scale production process for Actinium-225. “CNL has come a long way in the last seven years, and this award recognizes all of the hard work we have put in to help achieve this unmet need in the radiopharmaceutical industry,” added Mullur. “But I am pleased to say that we are just getting started, and continue to refine, optimize and improve all aspects of the production process, from development through to the extraction and distribution of the final product. And with each step, our optimism continues to grow that this isotope has the potential to serve as a safe and effective treatment for a variety of cancers.”

    To learn more about CNL, including its work to produce Actinium-225, please visit www.cnl.ca.

    About CNL
    As Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology laboratory and working under the direction of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), CNL is a world leader in the development of innovative nuclear science and technology products and services. Guided by an ambitious corporate strategy known as Vision 2030, CNL fulfills three strategic priorities of national importance – restoring and protecting the environment, advancing clean energy technologies, and contributing to the health of Canadians.

    By leveraging the assets owned by AECL, CNL also serves as the nexus between government, the nuclear industry, the broader private sector and the academic community. CNL works in collaboration with these sectors to advance innovative Canadian products and services towards real-world use, including carbon-free energy, cancer treatments and other therapies, non-proliferation technologies and waste management solutions.

    To learn more about CNL, please visit www.cnl.ca.

    About the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre
    The Fedoruk Centre is a not-for-profit corporation with the University of Saskatchewan (USask) as its sole member and an independent board of directors appointed by the USask board of governors. The Fedoruk Centre board is responsible for providing high-level strategic direction and oversight of Fedoruk Centre operations.

    For more information about the Fedoruk Centre, visit: www.fedorukcentre.ca

    About Advanced Cyclotron Systems Inc.
    Advanced Cyclotron Systems, Inc. (ACSI) is a world leader in the design and manufacturing of cyclotron systems. With over 30 years of experience and more than 60 cyclotron systems installed, ACSI can provide a wide range of equipment and services worldwide. ACSI cyclotrons are used for the commercial production and distribution of PET and SPECT nuclides by internationally recognized companies and leading universities and research facilities. ACSI cyclotrons are designed, manufactured, and assembled in Richmond, Canada.

    ACSI offers a full spectrum of cyclotron systems ranging from PET cyclotrons to medium and high energy accelerators. All ACSI manufactured cyclotrons have variable energy and employ external ion source technology, offering the highest beam current output available on the market.

    The versatility, high beam current and exceptional quality of ACSI cyclotrons are the reasons why many of the world’s most prestigious universities and research centers, as well as some of the most successful commercial radioisotope producers have chosen ACSI cyclotrons to meet their radioisotope production needs.

    ACSI headquarters and manufacturing facility is located in Richmond, BC, Canada.

    For more information, please visit www.advancedcyclotron.com.

    CNL Contact:
    Philip Kompass
    Director, Corporate Communications
    1-866-886-2325
    media@cnl.ca

    Sylvia Fedoruk Centre Contact:
    Daniel Hallen
    USask Media Relations
    daniel.hallen@usask.ca  
    306-966-6922

    Advanced Cyclotron Systems Inc. Contact
    Alex Zyuzin
    Director of Research & Business Development
    azyuzin@advancedcyclotron.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/13192f18-235c-42e2-8bce-2e97b6df9c16

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Calyx Celebrates 35 Years of Innovation with PATH: The Industry’s Most Advanced All-in-One Mortgage Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With over 30 years of innovation, Calyx has been at the forefront of mortgage technology, transforming how loans are originated, processed, and closed. Today, the company cements its legacy with PATH—the TRUE cloud-native loan origination system (LOS), enabling lenders to thrive in an era where speed and scalability are non-negotiable. PATH isn’t just software—it’s a revolution in mortgage lending. Built from the ground up in the cloud and battle-tested by hundreds of lenders. PATH is Calyx’s crowning achievement—a comprehensive end-to-end platform that eliminates bottlenecks, enhances agility, and provides the tools necessary to outpace competitors in today’s fast-changing market.

    “Path is the culmination of three decades of Calyx’s DNA: innovation without compromise,” said Joy Ziminskas, Director of Sales & Business Development at Calyx Software. “While others cling to outdated systems, we’ve spent the last ten years perfecting a cloud-native LOS built for the modern lending landscape. If you’re not on PATH, you’re already falling behind.”

    Why PATH Transforms Mortgage Lending

    • True Cloud-Native Architecture: Maximize uptime with silent updates, device-independent access, and elastic scalability that adapts to your business needs.
    • Seamless Compliance & Reporting: Effortlessly generate HMDA, ULDD, and MCR reports, ensuring audit readiness and streamlined regulatory compliance.
    • Proactive Risk Management: Stay ahead with real-time alerts and customizable surveillance tools to mitigate potential risks.
    • Native Point-of-Sale (POS): Accelerate closings by 30% with a mobile-first, lender-branded portal for real-time pre-approvals—at no extra cost.
    • PATH Pricer (PPE): A cost-effective, lender-specific pricing engine that tracks historical data and integrates seamlessly with your investor network (optional).
    • Hedging & Loan Trading Excellence: Seamless integration with Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®)—our exclusive partner and the industry’s leading hedge advisor/loan exchange—empowers lenders to mitigate risk and optimize profitability with precision.

    Market-Leading Features

    • Advanced Underwriting System (AUS): Achieve rapid loan eligibility decisions with direct integration into GSE underwriting systems. PATH AUS for portfolio loans, non-QM programs, and other custom lending solutions.
    • Analytics Dashboard: Enjoy real-time metrics, trend analysis, and interactive reports—offering similar capabilities to leading analytics solutions but at a fraction of the cost.
    • Calyx Industry Connect: Submit loans instantly through an expanding network, projected to include over 100 lenders and investors by 2026.

    Why It Matters

    • Maximize ROI: Pay only for the tools you need—core features included, with optional upgrades tailored to your growth.
    • Effortless Scalability: Grow from 4 to 400 users—or more—without limitations or complex upgrades.
    • Streamlined Automation: Reduce manual errors, speed up processes, and simplify audits with seamless data flow.

    Designed for Growth, Built for Flexibility
    With its modular architecture, PATH gives lenders control over their technology journey. Enjoy transparent pricing, no long-term contracts, and full data ownership—so your operations stay agile and independent as your business expands.

    Availability & Next Steps
    Calyx PATH is now available nationwide. With quick implementation timelines and flexible subscription plans, lenders can start transforming their mortgage processes immediately. Learn more, request a demo, or contact us today at www.pathsoftware.com to start transforming your mortgage process.

    Stay ahead in mortgage lending—choose PATH and lead the future of your business.

    Media Contact:
    Valerie Pineda | Marketing Coordinator
    Phone: (214) 252-5637
    email: valerie_pineda@calyxsoftware.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Announces Expanded Use of Unannounced Inspections at Foreign Manufacturing Facilities

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    May 06, 2025

    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced its intent to expand the use of unannounced inspections at foreign manufacturing facilities that produce foods, essential medicines, and other medical products intended for American consumers and patients. This change builds upon the agency’s Office of Inspection and Investigations Foreign Unannounced Inspection Pilot program in India and China and aims to ensure that foreign companies will receive the same level of regulatory oversight and scrutiny as domestic companies.  
    “For too long, foreign companies have enjoyed a double standard—given advanced notice before facility inspections, while American manufacturers are held to rigorous standards with no such warning. That ends today. This is a key step for the FDA as part of a broader strategy to get foreign inspections back on track,” said FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary, M.D, M.P.H.  
    In addition, the FDA will evaluate the agency’s policies and practices for improvements to the foreign inspection program to ensure that the FDA is the gold standard for regulatory oversight. These changes will include clarifying policies for FDA investigators to refuse travel accommodations from regulated industry including lodging and transportation arrangements (taxi, limousine, and for-hire vehicle transit), to maintain the integrity of the oversight process.
    The FDA conducts approximately 12,000 domestic inspections and 3,000 foreign inspections each year in more than 90 countries. While U.S. manufacturers undergo frequent, unannounced inspections, foreign firms have often had weeks to prepare, undermining the integrity of the oversight process. Despite the advanced warning that foreign firms receive, the FDA still found serious deficiencies more than twice as often than during domestic inspections.  
    Only in specific programs and cases are the FDA’s domestic inspections pre-announced to assure that appropriate records and personnel will be available during the inspection. But regulated companies do not have the authority to negotiate the day or time of the inspection— nor should foreign companies have the capability to do so either. With this shift, the FDA is further ensuring that every product entering the U.S. is safe, legitimate, and honestly made. Unannounced inspections will also help expose bad actors—those who falsify records or conceal violations—before they can put American lives at risk. The FDA is authorized to take regulatory action against any firm that seeks to delay, deny, or limit an inspection, or refuses to permit entry for an unannounced drug or device inspection.
    “The FDA’s rigorous, science-based global inspections of manufacturing facilities ensure that the food and drug products that enter the U.S. marketplace, and the homes of American consumers, are safe, trusted, and accessible,” said FDA Assistant Commissioner for Inspections and Investigations Michael Rogers. “These inspections provide real-time evidence and insights that are essential for making fact-based regulatory decisions to protect public health.”
    The FDA’s global inspections generate real-time intelligence that strengthens enforcement and keeps American families safe. Every inspection goes through a classification assignment process to enable an appropriate regulatory response. Even inspections that yield a “No Action Indicated” provide important regulatory intelligence that strengthens the safety net for American consumers.   This expanded approach marks a new era in FDA enforcement—stronger, smarter, and unapologetically in support the public health and safety of Americans. For more information about FDA inspections, visit the Inspections Database Frequently Asked Questions and Inspections Yield Valuable Results, Regardless of Classification.
    ###

    Boilerplate

    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

    Inquiries

    Consumer:
    888-INFO-FDA

    Content current as of:
    05/06/2025

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Lodging a general purpose financial statement

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Lodging a general purpose financial statement (GPFS) is a crucial step for various entities in Australia. Under section 3CA of the Taxation Administration Act 1953 , you’re required to submit a GPFS if you are:

    • a corporate tax entity (that is, a company, corporate limited partnership, or public trading trust) for the income year
    • a country-by-country reporting entity for the income year
    • an Australian resident or a foreign resident operating an Australian permanent establishment (PE), at the end of the income year.

    If you’re a subsidiary member of an accounting group, but not a member of a tax consolidated or multiple entry consolidated (MEC) group, you may still have an obligation to lodge a GPFS even where your parent entity may have already lodged.

    However, if you lodge a trust or partnership tax return, there’s no obligation under section 3CA to lodge a GPFS.

    To ensure your GPFS meets the necessary standards, your entity must prepare it in accordance with applicable accounting standards. It’s important to note that we don’t accept special purpose financial statements (SPFS) as GPFS.

    Entities must lodge their GPFS by the company tax return due date, unless they’ve already lodged with ASIC. To avoid penalties, lodge your statements on time, and in the approved form. Penalties are considerably higher for significant global entities.

    For more information, see Guidance on providing general purpose financial statements.

    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.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks at the Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee Meeting

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Good morning.  Today is the sixth-year anniversary of the first-ever meeting of the Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee.[1]  Since that initial meeting, I have followed the discussions and recommendations by this Committee from outside the agency.  Now it gives me great pleasure to have the opportunity to address this Committee for the first time as Chairman of the SEC.  It is particularly appropriate that this meeting takes place during this year’s National Small Business Week, when we are recognizing America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners.

    This Committee serves the important function of advising the Commission on achieving its three-part mission – protecting investors, facilitating capital formation, and maintaining fair, orderly, and efficient markets – as that mission relates to emerging, privately held small businesses and smaller publicly traded companies.[2]  This Committee’s voice will be critical over the next few years, as I intend for the Commission to focus on providing meaningful pathways for entrepreneurs to obtain the capital that they need to execute their innovative ideas and grow their companies in both the private and public markets.  At the same time, persons that provide such capital must be able to continue to depend on effective enforcement against fraudulent activities.

    Today, this Committee will explore how companies have used Regulation A for capital raising and discuss whether there are improvements that can be made to facilitate greater use of the rules.  Companies have raised approximately three times as much capital under Regulation A as compared to Regulation Crowdfunding and rule 504 combined.[3]  However, the amount raised under Regulation A is less than one percent of the amount of capital raised under rules 506(b) and 506(c) combined.[4]  Although the Commission raised the offering limit under Regulation A from $50 million to $75 million in March 2021,[5] there has not been a significant number of Regulation A offerings seeking to take advantage of the increased limit.[6]  In fact, the overall number of Regulation A offerings has declined the past two years, after increases the prior three years.[7]

    Besides increasing the offering limit, what else can be done to incentivize greater use of Regulation A?  In September 2022, this Committee recommended that the Commission “provide federal preemption from state regulation for secondary resales by investors of securities initially sold pursuant to Tier 2 of Regulation A.”[8]  Although the Commission has not acted on this recommendation, this Committee should consider further evaluating whether federal preemption can help alleviate secondary market liquidity challenges associated with securities sold pursuant to Regulation A.

    Additionally, at-the-market offerings are currently not permitted under Regulation A.[9]  Would eliminating this prohibition provide entrepreneurs with a more effective way of obtaining capital, without sacrificing investor protection?  Finally, use of Regulation A has been concentrated in six states – California, Florida, Nevada, New York, Texas, and Washington.[10]  Most other states did not have more than two Regulation A offerings.[11]  Why is there a geographic concentration for use of Regulation A and would decreasing the concentration make the rules more viable?

    Beyond these specific issues, Regulation A has not been a viable regulatory framework for widespread use by all issuers, including those offering certain types of crypto asset securities, to raise capital without disproportionate compliance costs.  As this Committee considers amendments to Regulation A, I encourage it to evaluate broader changes, as well as targeted revisions, with the goal of making the framework an effective regulatory regime for all types of issuers.

    I look forward to the presentation this morning by Daniel Forman of Lowenstein Sandler, as well as this Committee’s discussion of these and other Regulation A issues.  I am also excited about the opportunity to hear from this Committee each quarter on important issues affecting emerging, privately held small businesses and smaller publicly traded companies.  Thank you.

     

    [2] See Section 40(b)(a)(2)(A) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

    [6] FY 2024 Annual Report at p. 20.

    [9] Rule 251(d)(3)(ii).

    [10] FY 2024 Annual Report at p. 20.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Eight Welsh businesses celebrated in The King’s Awards for Enterprise

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Eight Welsh businesses celebrated in The King’s Awards for Enterprise

    Welsh recipients announced in third year of The King’s Awards for Enterprise – the UK’s most prestigious business awards.

    The King’s Award for Enterprise. Recipients from Wales.

    • Businesses from Bridgend to Wrexham recognised, with each playing a key role in the UK Government’s mission for economic growth.
    • Winners across three different categories: Innovation, International Trade and Sustainable Development.

    The recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced today [6 May], celebrating the achievements of leading businesses from across the UK and Channel Islands.

    Eight Welsh businesses across a range of different sectors have been recognized by His Majesty The King as among the best in the country, highlighting the ambition, ingenuity, and success of our diverse business community. 

    The businesses awarded cover a variety of sectors including industrial lasers, medical equipment, and baking, and are based around the country, from Wrexham to Bridgend and Welshpool. 

    One Welsh company was awarded for their innovative practices, five for their achievements in international trade and one for their sustainable development.

    By supporting more people into work, developing new innovations and exporting the best Britain has to offer around the world, businesses like these play a key role in the UK Government’s mission to go further and faster for economic growth, and put more money in more working people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports said:

    There are some excellent Welsh businesses recognised in this year’s King’s Awards for Enterprise: from Spectrum Technologies’ pioneering laser equipment to Bluestone Resort’s commitment to environmental responsibility. 

    I wish the winners every success as they continue to grow, innovate and prosper, and commend the invaluable contributions they have already made to communities at home in Wales and abroad, helping to boost the UK economy.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    I congratulate all eight Welsh businesses who have won awards. From baking to medical devices to sustainable holidays, their work shows the best of business right across Wales, producing and exporting high quality products and services.

    By working with talented Welsh enterprises to create well-paid local jobs and economic growth, the UK Government is delivering on its Plan for Change.

    This year’s recipients include Spectrum Technologies, a global leader in the supply of industrial laser wire-processing equipment for the aerospace industry. Based in Bridgend, they have been recognised in the International Trade category.   

    Dr Peter Dickinson, Chairman and Chief Technology Officer at Spectrum Technologies, said:  

    Spectrum is very excited and proud to be a winner of the King’s Award for Enterprise. The Company faced huge challenges with Covid but our team of employees have really pulled together and helped turn a difficult situation around, more than doubling sales over the last few years.

    The King’s Award is a tribute to their combined efforts, as well as a reflection on the company’s global market-leading position supplying specialised laser wire processing equipment to the aerospace industry.” 

    Bluestone Resort is situated in the heart of the Pembrokeshire countryside. The park has been designed to reconnect families with nature in a responsible fashion, and as such they have received an award in the Sustainable Development category. 

    William McNamara OBE, CEO and Founder of Bluestone, said: 

    Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development is a hugely exciting and rewarding milestone for everyone at Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire.  

    Our ethos is centered on the three pillars of sustainable development: actively protecting natural ecosystems, growing the local economy and supporting local communities. This has become our operational blueprint. The King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development gives us many reasons to celebrate, recognising the importance of our work as we continue to protect our planet for future generations.” 

    The King’s Awards for Enterprise were previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and were renamed two years ago to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 59th year, has awarded over 8,000 companies since its inception in 1965.

    His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants – the King’s representatives in each county – will be presenting the Awards to businesses locally throughout the year. One representative from each winning business will also be invited to a special royal reception event.

    Eligible businesses are free to apply for one or more categories. The recipients pass a robust assessment process, judged by experts from industry, academia, the voluntary sector, a representative from the Welsh Government and senior officials in Whitehall. On that basis, each year, The King’s Awards for Enterprise recipients are recommended by the Prime Minister.

    Richard Harris, Head of Trade at the Welsh Government and a judge on this year’s panel commented: 

    It’s an absolute privilege to represent Wales as a judge on the Kings Awards and reviewing and appraising the applications which seem to grow in quality year on year never fails to impress. 

    The Kings Award is the gold standard, it means something, for me it’s the benchmark award for quality that can literally open doors and start conversations across the world, enabling companies to access opportunities that ordinarily might not be available and win business.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

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

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

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

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

    Delivering Economic Growth 

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

    Case study – Standard Chartered 

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

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

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

    We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.

    Case study – UPS

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

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

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

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

    Future-Proofing Our Economy 

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

    Case study – John Smedley Ltd

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

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

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

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

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

    Cutting costs for UK-India trade 

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

    Case study – Smith+Nephew

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

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

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

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

    Delivering opportunities for High-Growth Sectors 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Case study – Premier League

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

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:

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

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

    Case study – EY

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

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

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

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

    Case study – Concrete Canvas Ltd

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

    William Crawford, Director of Concrete Canvas Ltd, said: 

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

    This is welcome news for both UK and Indian businesses!

    Case study – Biopanda

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

    Philip McKee, Sales Manager at Biopanda, said:  

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

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

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

    Unlocking Opportunities Nationwide 

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

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

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

    Case study – Chivas Brothers Ltd

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

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

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

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

    Case study – Diageo

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

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

    Diageo Chief Executive Debra Crew said:

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

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

    Enhancing Security through our partnership

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

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

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

    Case study – Coltraco Ultrasonics

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

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

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

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

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

    Unlocking Access to India’s Untapped Procurement Market 

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

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

    Protecting Our Values 

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

    1. DBT CGE modelling. See Technical Annex

    2. World Economic Outlook Database, October 2024

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

    4. Ibid.

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

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

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

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

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

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK concludes trade deal with India

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

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

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

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

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

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

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

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

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

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

    Notes to editors 

    Benefits for businesses of all sizes 

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

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

    Delivering for high-growth sectors 

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

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

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

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

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

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

    More choice and protections for consumers 

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

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

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

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

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Notes to editors 

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

    Data sources for this release include: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: ModelOp Unveils 2025 AI Governance Benchmark Report Showing Speed, Scale, and Trust Will Define the Next Era of Enterprise AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ModelOp, the leading AI lifecycle automation and governance software for enterprises, announced today the release of its highly anticipated 2025 AI Governance Benchmark Report. Titled “AI’s Time-to-Market Quagmire: Why Enterprises Struggle to Scale AI Innovation”, the new report provides groundbreaking insights from 100 senior AI and data leaders in Financial Services, Healthcare, Life Sciences, Pharma, Biotech, Consumer Packaged Goods, Logistics, Manufacturing, Energy, and Retail across North America.

    It reveals the operational challenges that enterprises face in bringing to market and scaling AI initiatives – especially generative AI. With global AI spending expected to reach $631 billion by 2028, the report highlights a stark disconnect between enterprise ambitions and production results. Reasons include fragmented systems, inconsistent governance practices, and reliance on manual processes like spreadsheets and emails.

    Key Findings from the Report:

    • 56% of generative AI projects take between 6–18 months to move from intake to production.
    • 80% of enterprises have at least 51 generative AI use cases in the proposal phase, but most only have a handful of use cases in production.
    • While 72% of enterprises have fewer than 20 AI use cases in production, a wave of initiatives is coming, at least 90% of organizations have 21 or more use cases either in development or quality assurance.
    • 58% of enterprises said dealing with fragmented systems was among the biggest challenges to AI governance adoption.
    • 86% of enterprises run the risk of inconsistent reporting and duplicate work because they do not carry out AI assurance at the enterprise level.
    • 36% said they have budgeted more than $1M annually for AI governance software – demonstrating a trend towards ring-fencing funds for this purpose.

    “Executives are increasingly needing to demonstrate ROI for the significant investments in their AI initiatives,” says Jim Olsen, Chief Technology Officer at ModelOp. “There’s pressure for them to show leadership in new tech, drive transformation, and produce a competitive advantage — but they need to show that the tech is trustworthy too. Even if an enterprise does have well-defined governance policies, applying and enforcing them consistently across the many teams and systems involved is like herding cats if you’re doing it with spreadsheets and manual processes. Enterprises are realizing that AI governance is not a bureaucratic hurdle – they’re recognizing it as a trustworthy engine to accelerate and scale innovation. Effective AI governance is really about using AI lifecycle automation to coordinate the dozens of teams and systems involved with bringing AI to market and enforcing internal and regulatory policies consistently,” says Olsen.

    The report also showcases how early governance adoption correlates with faster deployment and stronger return on investment. A featured case study details how a major financial services firm cut time-to-market in half and reduced issue resolution time by 80% after implementing ModelOp’s AI lifecycle automation and governance software.

    “Speed will separate the leaders from the laggards,” added Olsen. “This report is a call-to-action for C-suite executives to embed automation and governance from the start, not as a check-the-box afterthought.”

    The full 2025 AI Governance Benchmark Report, developed in collaboration with Corinium Intelligence, is available now at no charge for download at https://www.modelop.com/ai-gov-benchmark-report.

    About ModelOp
    ModelOp is the leader in AI lifecycle automation and governance software, purpose-built for enterprises. It enables organizations to bring all of their AI initiatives – from GenAI and ML to regression models – to market faster, at scale, and with the confidence of end-to-end control, oversight, and value realization. ModelOp is used by the most complex and regulated institutions in the world – including major banks, insurers, regulatory bodies, healthcare organizations, and global CPG companies – because it delivers the structure, automation, and oversight necessary to operationalize AI at scale across the entire enterprise. In 2024, ModelOp received the prestigious AI Breakthrough Award for “Best AI Governance Platform” and was also recognized as a winner in Inc.’s Best in Business Awards in the AI & Data category. In 2025, it was awarded the “Best AI Governance Software Award” from Netty Awards and received Business Intelligence Group’s Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award. Follow ModelOp on LinkedIn.

    Media Contact
    Ria Romano, Partner
    RPR Public Relations, Inc.
    Tel. 786-290-6413

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a5372bd1-3e80-49a2-8d3a-0d588941c21a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Salary.com Announces Partnership with Texas Hospital Association

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Salary.com, the global leader in compensation technology and data, today announced its partnership with the Texas Hospital Association (THA), the leadership organization and principal advocate for the state’s hospitals and health care systems. With a shared commitment to “getting pay right” within the health care industry, THA and Salary.com are focused on addressing workforce shortages through smart compensation practices.

    One of the largest hospital associations in the country, THA represents more than 85 percent of Texas’ acute-care hospitals and health care systems, which employ more than 400,000 health care professionals statewide. Known for developing a vision of unified health care delivery for Texas, THA is an advocate for accessible, cost-effective high-quality health care delivered through a system that emphasizes integration, community health, and equitable funding.

    Competitive salaries attract and retain qualified talent. Given the escalating growth in the health care industry – which added 52,000 jobs in February 2025 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – the availability of trustworthy HR-reported market to support total compensation management is required. At the foundation of Salary.com’s products and services is the world’s largest database of compensation market data covering 16,000 jobs across 225 industries. The Salary.com Total Compensation Management solution incorporates this data directly into an integrated suite of compensation management software. The suite includes all of the components of compensation management and communications, from AI enabled job description development and job benchmarking to skills analysis and Job Architecture and from annual compensation planning tools to pay equity analysis.

    Vicki Dale, Senior Director of Business Services, THA, said, “THA is pleased to partner with Salary.com to ensure pay transparency. Their Total Compensation Management solution delivers what we need, across comp planning, job design management, pay equity analytics, and more. Our decision-making process to select Salary.com as our compensation partner involved a lengthy and meticulous vetting process. We’re looking forward to the mutual success of our work together.”

    “Salary.com’s partnership with THA represents our shared commitment to getting pay right within the health care space, which is more vital than ever as they address projected workforce shortages, an aging population, and increased demand,” commented Kevin Plunkett, Senior Vice President, Partnerships, Salary.com. “With Salary.com’s Total Compensation Management suite, THA can centralize salary planning, ascertain what skills are needed for different jobs, and provide clear and consistent pay information. As one of the largest hospital associations in the country, we’re honored to support THA’s continued success.”

    More About Total Compensation Management (TCM)
    From the C-suite to the employee, Salary.com’s Total Compensation Management (TCM) is an original approach that streamlines and improves the flow of pay information. By skillfully blending planning and management while cutting through the confusion created by disconnected parts and providers, TCM increases accuracy, clarifies processes, and delivers accurate data. With Salary.com’s TCM suite, organizations gain best-in-class products in one integrated solution that delivers a comprehensive picture of pay and benefits. To learn more please visit here.

    About Texas Hospital Association

    Founded in 1930, the Texas Hospital Association is the leadership organization and principal advocate for the state’s hospitals and health care systems. Based in Austin, THA enhances its members’ abilities to improve accessibility, quality, and cost-effectiveness of health care for all Texans. One of the largest hospital associations in the country, THA represents more than 85% of the state’s acute-care hospitals and health care systems, which employ some 400,000 health care professionals statewide.

    About Salary.com
    Salary.com has been helping organizations with human capital needs for over 25 years. The company leads the industry in compensation data, software, and services. More than 30,000 organizations in 30+ countries use Salary.com’s solutions to hire and retain talent and compete in a changing world. Salary.com provides over 10 billion data points across over 225 industries using a proprietary AI framework to ensure fair pay. The company’s main product, CompAnalyst®, helps organizations simplify hiring, reduce guesswork, and increase retention. Employee trust depends on fair pay, and Salary.com helps get it right. For additional information, please visit www.salary.com/business.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Renown Capital Partners formally launches with $250M in anchor capital, leads Series C raise for Utilidata

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Renown Capital Partners, (“Renown”) – an investment firm focused on growth-stage technology companies helping to secure an efficient, affordable, and reliable energy system – has formally launched. Renown is a spinout of Moore Capital Management (“Moore”), which has provided $200M of anchor capital. The Daily Mail and General Trust (“DMGT”) has committed an additional $50M of anchor capital.

    Renown’s investment team is led by James McIntyre (Co-Founder, Chief Investment Officer, and Managing Partner), along with Hunter Horgan (Managing Director) and Cameron Scari (Managing Director). McIntyre leaves Moore after nearly twenty years with the firm and has worked with both Horgan and Scari for nearly a decade. Archie Soames is Co-Founder and Head of Business Development.

    Renown launches with a portfolio of six companies and recently led the Series C financing of Utilidata – an AI technology company bringing edge computing and AI to the electric grid. Utilidata’s distributed AI platform, Karman – designed in partnership with part owner NVIDIA – will help deliver unprecedented efficiency, resilience, and security to energy infrastructure across the globe.

    James McIntyre said, “Throughout my time at Moore I have rarely seen a secular shift as powerful and sustaining as what the world is currently experiencing in energy. Renown has been founded specifically to capitalize on this opportunity.”

    “Given the rise in demand, surge of complexity, and expansion of decentralized energy resources, utilities need real-time visibility of grid conditions and dynamic, software-defined infrastructure,” said Renown’s Hunter Horgan, who orchestrated the Utilidata round. “We believe Utilidata is providing a flexible, evergreen solution to address these complex issues, and we are excited to continue our longstanding relationship through this raise.”

    Archie Soames added, “We believe the global energy ecosystem is at an inflection point and offers a generational investment opportunity. The companies providing new technologies in this space, including those in Renown’s launch portfolio, are poised for extraordinary growth.”

    About Renown:

    Renown Capital Partners, (“Renown”), is an investment firm focused on growth-stage technology companies helping to secure an efficient, affordable, and reliable energy system. Renown is a spinout of Moore Capital Management with additional anchor capital committed from The Daily Mail and General Trust (“DMGT”).

    Contact:

    ir@renowncapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Leveling the playing field: Talkdesk supercharges small businesses with accessible, enterprise-grade artificial intelligence service tools

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Talkdesk®, Inc., a global provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered customer experience (CX) technology that serves enterprises of all sizes, today announced the launch of Talkdesk Express™, an enterprise-grade customer service solution for small businesses that empowers them to deliver the same exceptional customer service as large organizations, without the complexity. A Gartner® study reports, “76% of executive leaders see CX as critical to meeting organizations’ business goals.”* However, traditional contact center software is either too expensive or complex for small businesses, placing them at an unfair disadvantage. Talkdesk Express is an affordable, intuitive solution designed for ultra-fast setup, and its ease of use enables small businesses to self-manage multi-channel customer service operations—no technical knowledge required or precious hours wasted on support hotlines.

    Easy Set-up, $100 Free Credits, and 25 Free Licences

    To help small businesses with up to 50 employees get started setting up their customer service operations, Talkdesk Express includes $100 in free credits and 25 free licenses. Businesses create their contact center directly from the Talkdesk website—bypassing cumbersome vendor sales-led setup and onboarding. Talkdesk Express is self-provisioning and guides new customers through a step-by-step process to procure a phone number and set up channels, users, and connected knowledge bases in just a few minutes.

    Businesses that have started using Talkdesk Express, like TV Wall Mounters LLC, DBA Visionary AV Solutions—a company specializing in residential and commercial AV installations, including TV mounting, LED video walls, and projector setups—are already seeing the difference. By simplifying customer service operations and improving call quality, Visionary AV Solutions has been able to deliver faster, more professional support while focusing on growing its business.

    “Talkdesk has been a game-changer for us. Compared to other systems we’ve used, Talkdesk Express truly stands out—the sound quality is clearer, the platform layout is more intuitive, and the overall performance has been outstanding. Our team loves using it, and we’ve already seen great success,” said Calvin Williams, chief executive officer of TV Wall Mounters LLC, DBA Visionary AV Solutions.

    Enterprise-Grade AI for Enhanced Customer Service

    Talkdesk Express equips small businesses with the same suite of powerful AI-driven tools used by Talkdesk large enterprise customers like BankUnited, Canon, Medela, and Michael’s. The AI tools come pre-installed and pre-configured for ease, so small businesses can compete with larger organizations without needing an IT team. These include:

    • Intelligent customer routing: A tool that allows customers to state their query in their own words, understands the interaction priority level for the business, and to whom the interaction should be routed (Talkdesk Navigator™).
    • Real-time agent assistance: A real-time AI assistant that supports agents by providing important information relevant to customer queries to resolve issues faster, and automating admin tasks, e.g., summarizing after-call notes (Talkdesk Copilot™).
    • 24/7 virtual agents: A self-service AI solution that ensures customers can get answers to common questions even outside of business hours (Talkdesk After Hours and Autopilot™).
    • Intelligent voice biometrics: A tool that automates customer authentication, which helps reduce call wait times while enhancing security (Talkdesk Identity™).

    “This move not only strengthens Talkdesk’s position as an innovative AI CX leader for businesses of all sizes, it’s set to transform the customer service landscape, driving much broader adoption of AI-powered solutions,” said Tiago Paiva, chief executive officer and founder at Talkdesk. “Large enterprises have long trusted Talkdesk to modernize and enhance their CX. Now we are making advanced AI-powered customer service tools inclusive, accessible, and affordable to all businesses for the first time.”

    Additionally, multiple non-AI tools are seamlessly integrated into Talkdesk Express. Small businesses are walked through setting up: a customer service phone number with their area code; the channels they want to converse with customers on, e.g., short message service (SMS), chat, email, social, and messaging; and users, all in minutes. They can also design intuitive workflows, carry out reporting, and more.

    Flexible and Cost-Effective

    Talkdesk Express offers usage-based pricing, ensuring small businesses only pay for what they use once they exhaust their $100 in free credits. The platform also scales as the company grows, providing a cost-effective way to expand customer service capabilities as and when the business is ready.

    Visit the Talkdesk Express page to learn more or get started with the solution today.

    About Talkdesk

    Talkdesk® is on a mission to rid the world of bad customer experience. With our cloud-native, generative AI-powered CX platform, purpose-built industry solutions, and extensible AI offerings, we empower enterprises in the cloud and on-premises to deliver exceptional customer experiences that make them more competitive, grow revenue, reduce costs, and provide operational efficiencies. With specialized workflows and integrations delivered out of the box for our Industry Experience Clouds, Talkdesk accelerates value for our customers faster and more simply than legacy or one-size-fits-all solutions.

    Partnering with enterprises globally, we deliver continuous innovation and breakthrough results. Our commitment to reliability and security, paired with our track record of delivering on promises, sets us apart in the industry. Elevate customer experiences, streamline operations, and increase revenue with Talkdesk. Companies that love their customers use Talkdesk.

    Talkdesk is a registered trademark of Talkdesk, Inc. All product and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective holders. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.

    *Gartner; What the Best CX Organizations Do Differently; May 1, 2023; Don Scheibenreif, Michael Chiu
    GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

    Media Contact:

    Talkdesk Public Relations

    pr@talkdesk.com

    The MIL Network –