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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Text adopted – Estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2026 – Section I – European Parliament – P10_TA(2025)0060 – Thursday, 3 April 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    –  having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 of 17 December 2020 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021-2027(1) and to the joint declaration agreed between Parliament, the Council and the Commission in this context(2) and the related unilateral declarations(3),

    –  having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2022/2496 of 15 December 2022 amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027(4),

    –  having regard to the Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/765 amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027(5) (”MFF revision”),

    –  having regard to its legislative resolution of 16 December 2020 on the draft Council regulation laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027(6),

    –  having regard to its resolution of 15 December 2022 on upscaling the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework: a resilient EU budget fit for new challenges(7),

    –  having regard to its resolution of 3 October 2023 on the proposal for a mid-term revision of the multiannual financial framework 2021-2027(8),

    –  having regard to its resolution of 27 February 2024 on the draft Council regulation amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027(9),

    –  having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (recast)(10) (the “Financial Regulation”),

    –  having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 16 December 2020 between the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management, as well as on new own resources, including a roadmap towards the introduction of new own resources(11),

    –  having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025(12) and the joint statements agreed between Parliament, the Council and the Commission annexed hereto,

    –  having regard to the Secretary-General’s report to the Bureau on drawing up Parliament’s preliminary draft estimates for the financial year 2026,

    –  having regard to the preliminary draft estimates drawn up by the Bureau on 10 March 2025 pursuant to Rules 25(7) and 104(1) of Parliament’s Rules of Procedure,

    –  having regard to the draft estimates drawn up by the Committee on Budgets pursuant to Rule 104(2) of Parliament’s Rules of Procedure,

    –  having regard to Rule 104 of its Rules of Procedure,

    –  having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A10-0048/2025),

    A.  whereas the budget proposed on 10 February 2025 by the Secretary-General for the Parliament’s preliminary draft estimates for 2026 amounts to EUR 2 641 609 620 and represents an increase of 4,30 % or EUR 108 914 512 compared to 2025 budget;

    B.  whereas the Union annual inflation was 2,8 % in January 2025 according to Eurostat, up from 2,7 % in December 2024; whereas the level of expenditure in Heading 7 of the multiannual financial framework (MFF) 2021-2027 is based on a 2 % yearly increase;

    C.  whereas the credibility of the Parliament depends on its ability to deliver on its core budgetary, legislative and scrutiny work to the highest standard, while setting an example vis-à-vis other Union institutions to plan and conduct its spending prudently and efficiently and to reflect the prevalent economic realities;

    General framework

    1.  Is concerned with the situation of Heading 7 in the current MFF; recalls that the constraints are the results of the cuts applied by the Council to the Commission’s already very low initial proposal when agreeing on the current MFF 2021-2027; regrets the Council’s opposition to the Commission’s proposal to increase the ceiling of Heading 7 in the MFF revision as from 2024; points out the failure to address the issue of the ceiling of Heading 7 in the MFF revision; highlights that the forecasted negative margin for 2026 presupposes the use of special instruments in Heading 7 for that purpose;

    2.  Endorses the agreement reached in the Conciliation between the Bureau and the Committee on Budgets on 18 March 2025 to set the increase over the 2025 budget at 4,09 %, corresponding to an overall of estimates of EUR 2 636 241 620 for 2026, and to reduce accordingly the appropriations proposed on the following budget lines for a total of EUR 12 378 000:

    1 0 0 6 — General expenditure allowance, 1 4 2 — External translation services, 2 0 0 0 — Rent, 2 0 0 7 — Construction of buildings and fitting-out of premises, 2 0 2 4 — Energy consumption, 2 1 0 1 — Business applications management, 3 2 0 — Acquisition of expertise, 3 2 4 3 — European Parliament visitors’ centres, 3 2 4 8 — Expenditure on audiovisual information, 4 4 — Meetings and other activities of current and former Members;

    furthermore, it was decided to increase the level of expenditure of the preliminary draft estimates approved by the Bureau on 10 March 2025 by EUR 7 010 000 and to increase accordingly the appropriations proposed on the following budget lines:

    1 2 0 0 — Remuneration and allowances, 1 6 3 0 — Social welfare: welfare expenditure, 4 0 0 — Current administrative expenditure and expenditure relating to the political and information activities of the political groups and non-attached Members, and 4 0 3 — Funding of European political foundations;

    finally, it was agreed to modify the budgetary remarks of item 1 6 3 0 — Social welfare: welfare expenditure to include the reference to the APA Committee;

    3.  Recalls that almost two-thirds of the budget is fixed by statutory obligations; notes that out of the increase of EUR 103,5 million compared to the 2025 budget an increase of EUR 85,3 million is due to statutory financial obligations, mainly for salary updates of officials and temporary staff (EUR 52,7 million), of contract agents (EUR 9,2 million) and of accredited parliamentary assistants (EUR 15,1 million); recalls that the salary indexation, in line with the Staff Regulations and Statute for Members of the European Parliament, is currently forecasted by the Commission for April 2025, July 2025, April 2026 and July 2026 at 1,2 %, 4,6 %, 0,6 % and 3,4 % respectively;

    4.  Notes that the Parliament does not request any additional posts for 2026, the third year in a row;

    5.  Notes that the increase for non-statutory expenditures between 2025 and 2026 is 1,96 %;

    6.  Welcomes the initiative of the Secretary-General to conduct a major screening exercise aimed at identifying opportunities for administrative simplification, eliminating inefficiencies and ensuring tangible cost reductions, thereby increasing efficiency and ensuring a smart use of resources; asks the Secretary-General to provide the Committee on Budgets with semestrial updates on the actions taken and on the Action Plan on Simplification as well as their impact in terms of budget and staff; underlines that administrative procedures and human resources management represent a heavy burden for Members, in particular when hiring local assistants, and calls for simplification in that regard;

    7.  Notes that Parliament’s budget should be established on a realistic basis, in compliance with the principles of budgetary discipline and sound financial management; highlights that it is essential to ensure that financial prudence and security remain key priorities while guaranteeing that these measures do not impede the efficiency, effectiveness and operational capacity of the institution and its essential staff in carrying out their duties successfully; stresses that, given the geopolitical context and the investments that the Union will have to make for its strategic autonomy, the Parliament must set an example in the management of its budget;

    8.  Highlights Parliament’s role in building European political awareness and promoting Union values and policies such as the digital and green transition; stresses that transparency, accountability, gender equality and integrity are essential principles within the Union institutions and particularly Parliament as a house of European democracy;

    Strengthening Parliament’s core functions

    9.  Takes note of the four new thematic Directorates-General (DGs) created in September 2024, responsible for legislative, budgetary and scrutiny activities, from the previous Directorate-General for Internal Policies, in order to improve the functioning of Parliament as a co-legislator, as one arm of the budgetary authority, and as discharge authority; requests the Secretary-General to provide the Committee on Budgets with regular updates on the evolution of work and staff in these DGs;

    10.  Recognises the need for more political decision-making based on evidence and facts; takes note of the budget of EUR 16,75 million to strengthen Parliament’s administrative capacity in supporting Members in their parliamentary work and reinforcing its capacity to navigate complexity and uncertainty;

    11.  Stresses the crucial role of political groups in providing expertise and political support to Members in their legislative and parliamentary work; underlines the need to ensure the important objective of strengthening Parliament’s capacity to support the work of Members;

    Digital transition

    12.  Underlines that Parliament’s cybersecurity is a key priority; notes that the overall IT budget represents 7,40 % of the total budget in the 2026 estimates; stresses the importance of a sound cybersecurity infrastructure in geopolitically turbulent times and welcomes the increase in the appropriations dedicated to cybersecurity; supports the planned gradual increase of the cybersecurity financial appropriations to 10 % of Parliament’s ICT budget by 2027;

    13.  Welcomes the adoption by the Bureau on 10 February 2025 of the Framework on an internal cybersecurity risk management, governance and control framework; recalls that investments in cybersecurity are key to protect the democratic voice of the Parliament and the Union;

    14.  Welcomes investments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) amounting to EUR 1 million; calls for the use of AI to be increased in order to gain efficiencies, while keeping in mind the related risks, including ethics and data protection; highlights the potential of AI to streamline administrative processes; stresses that AI deployment must balance innovation with necessary safeguards; notes that the development of AI will be closely monitored in line with the principles established by the Bureau, which include among others a thorough risk assessment with the use of new technologies; calls the Secretariat to provide solutions, such as applications and tools, to be made available to Members and staff as soon as possible;

    Green transition

    15.  Welcomes Parliament’s environmental management system (EMAS) targets for 2025-2029; recalls that energy efficiency investments are a good method of achieving value for money; takes note of the budget of EUR 8,45 million for investments on energy efficiency and environment in the 2026 estimates to further improve the environmental performance of its buildings; notes that this corresponds to an increase of 74 % compared to 2025 budget; acknowledges however, that these environmental actions are part of the 2007 ‘Construction of building and fitting out of premises’ budget line whose grand total has decreased by EUR 3,7 million in 2026 vs 2025;

    16.  Recalls that nearly two-thirds of Parliament’s carbon footprint originate from the transportation of people; calls for a reasonable decrease of travel for meetings that can be effectively conducted remotely or in hybrid mode and to promote a shift to low carbon alternatives for all remaining travel, in so far as this does not affect the quality of legislative and political work;

    17.  Takes note of the projected increase in carbon credits prices, that with the current emissions levels would need an estimated EUR 900 000 for 2026; calls the administration to continue decreasing, in line with sound financial management, Parliament’s emissions over buying carbon credits; welcomes the introduction of an enhanced train offer for missions to Strasbourg as of July 2025, as a positive step towards reducing CO2 emissions;

    18.  Notes that Parliament has installed and is continuing to install photovoltaic solar panels to further increase the share of renewable energy produced on-site to reach the target of 25 %; takes note of the answers provided by the Secretary-General to Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2024 pointing out that a study on the use of photovoltaic panels for Strasbourg buildings was carried out in 2022 and was completed in 2023 and that further studies were to be conducted in 2024 for viable solutions, in particular for the WEISS building;

    Multilingualism, communication and disinformation

    19.  Highlights that multilingualism is a key principle on which Parliament’s work is based; takes note of the revision of the Code of Conduct on Multilingualism planned for spring 2025; asks that, where appropriate, Parliament capitalise on major technological evolutions in multilingualism-related services, including the development and use of AI; asks the Secretary-General to timely inform the Committee on Budgets on any budgetary impacts following this revision;

    20.  Highlights the role played by European Parliament Liaison Offices (EPLOs) in countering foreign interference and disinformation; takes note in that regard of the work of EPLOs proactively promoting the work of Parliament in their local languages across multiple channels; highlights EPLOs’ role in the UK as the main contact point for Union nationals resident in the UK, providing them with information about the Parliament and encouraging them to vote in the European elections; requests the Bureau to expand the production and dissemination of communication materials in an accessible and inclusive manner;

    21.  Highlights the low participation rate of young people in the recent European elections in some regions of the Union and Parliament’s role in strengthening EU citizenship education;

    22.  Recalls the importance of the European Parliament Ambassador School programme to promote active engagement among young Europeans and of the training programme for young journalists named in honour of David Sassoli to strengthen the understanding of the Union and its functioning amongst journalists, as the best antidote against disinformation, in light of recent trends demonstrating a worrying decline in media freedom and independence across the Union;

    23.  Recognises the importance of visitors groups as an important tool to connect citizens with the work of Members; welcomes in that regard the increase of the ceilings and cost factors for the calculation of the financial contribution to sponsored visitors as from 1 January 2025; requests the Bureau to assess the impact of the revised rules related to visitors groups in relation to travel costs taking into account market fluctuation and to avoid indirect geographical discrimination for visitors; notes that about 15 % of the quota for visitors is historically not being used by Members; calls the Secretary-General to propose to the Bureau to make the unused quota available to interested Members; notes that the budget for visitors groups represents 22 % of the overall budget of the Directorate-General for Communication;

    24.  Notes with concern the internal rules governing Members’ visitor groups, which result in 30 % of the up-front costs having to be incurred by Accredited Parliamentary Assistants (APAs) in some circumstances; stresses the impracticability of these rules and the financial burden this places on APAs; takes note of the answers provided by the Secretary-General to Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2024 in regard to the rationale of the two-step approach; understands the rationale but emphasises the growing challenges this presents for APAs, particularly with the continuous shift towards more stringent rules;

    25.  Stresses the increasingly challenging communication landscape and the multiple ways in which political communication should be performed, including through engaging in various social media platforms and other media; underlines the need for the political groups to convey and communicate their message across all Member States as a key principle of a well-functioning European democracy;

    Infrastructure

    26.  Acknowledges the new approach related to buildings, where, after a period of acquisition, Parliament has entered an era of consolidation of buildings, taking into account sustainability, accessibility and mobility of Members and staff;

    27.  Takes note that EUR 4 million are included in the 2026 estimates for studies and the contractor’s preparatory works related to the SPAAK building renovation while the overall costs are estimated at EUR 36 million; notes therefore that EUR 32 million of costs related to the SPAAK building renovation are not included in the 2026 estimates; notes that the Secretary-General intends to cover these costs by a mopping-up transfer or the use of a loan; requests the Secretary-General to provide the Committee on Budgets with detailed information on a possible loan to cover these costs, in accordance with Article 272 (6) of the Financial Regulation, as soon as possible as well as the full planning of the works including the planning of the costs; insists that costs not directly linked to the renovation works should also be clearly listed and budgeted; notes that as of December 2024, the direct costs of the SPAAK project amount to EUR 14,12 million;

    28.  Welcomes the pilot project of DG INLO aimed at removing legionella from the pipeline sanitary system of the Parliament and highlights that the only effective way to fight the further spreading of legionella is to bring the water temperature inside the pipelines to 55 degrees Celsius for a limited time;

    29.  Notes that it is planned to invest EUR 11,45 million in Europa Experiences in 2026; takes note of the decision by the Bureau in November 2024 to revise the concept of Europa Experience and expects the revised concept to be more cost-efficient and more attractive to visitors; regrets that there are still no Europa Experiences in Bucharest, Riga, Madrid, Lisbon, Nicosia, Valletta or Vilnius; calls for the establishment of Europa Experiences in all Member States as soon as a revised concept has been established; recalls that Europa Experiences should allow citizens to have a better understanding of the functioning of the Union and learn about our shared values; reiterates therefore that Europa Experiences are an integral part of Parliament’s ongoing engagement with Union citizens;

    30.  Takes note that no additional financing is needed for the opening of Parliament offices in Moldova and the Western Balkans, as these would be set up within EEAS premises; stresses the importance of Parliament’s presence in these countries as a sign of European solidarity and a sign of Parliament’s commitment to the accession process;

    31.  Takes note of the early termination of the contract with the previous provider of the Crèche Wayenberg after a number of serious allegations against the contractor; welcomes the agreement with a new provider that foresees better working conditions of the nursery staff and better quality of the service for the children; acknowledges, however, that this results in an increase of the budget necessary for this purpose, but emphasises that decent working conditions for external staff should, where relevant, be a priority consideration in public procurement of Parliament as a matter of principle;

    32.  Reiterates the need for high quality nursing rooms in Parliament’s premises and calls on the competent services to upgrade the current facilities in terms of equipment, space and accessibility in order to make them child-friendly; calls for an impact assessment on the need for a family room within the premises of the Brussels seat of the Parliament, for children of Members without permanent residence in Brussels, mirroring the arrangements in Strasbourg;

    Others

    33.  Reiterates its request, adopted at Plenary level at several occasions, for the relevant bodies to reflect on a solution enabling Members to exercise their right to vote remotely, during benefiting from maternity or paternity leave, during a certified long-term illness, taking advantage of the lessons learnt during the pandemic on the technical aspects of this voting method;

    34.  Reaffirms its call for the Secretary-General to emphasise the fundamental principle that all recruitment should be based on competency while also ensuring geographical balance among all Member States at every staff level; calls on Parliament to build its own outreach capacity, with the goal of attracting to competitions quality candidates that Parliament needs, in terms of profile, age, gender and nationality and especially from under-represented countries; underscores that achieving fair geographical representation is essential to fostering a genuinely European public service; notes that Parliament has consistently taken measures to support this objective, including the organisation of nationality-specific competitions while maintaining a strict merit-based selection approach;

    35.  Believes that Parliament should lead by example concerning the rights of persons with disabilities, both as an employer and as a public institution; welcomes Parliament’s policy aiming to ensure the fully independent use of Parliament buildings by persons with disabilities and supports further measures and adaptations that will be necessary in this regard; notes that the budget foresees EUR 3,7 million for this purpose;

    36.  Stresses the fact that Parliament having a single seat could reduce the financial and environmental costs; recalls that, according to the Treaty on European Union, Parliament is to have its seat in Strasbourg; notes that permanent changes would require a Treaty change for which unanimity is needed;

    37.  Notes that mission expenses of Members and staff amount to EUR 116 million in Parliament’s budget; calls for Parliament’s bodies to reflect on mission practices and a revision of mission rules and practices with the overall aim of continuing to improve the nature of missions and further diminishing the associated financial and environmental costs; encourages Members to use low-carbon transport alternatives and advocates for responsible and measured use of best-value flights options, and the preference for train travel where it is a viable option;

    38.  Takes note that Article 46(2) of the Implementing Measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament provides for the possibility to finance extra costs linked to the parliamentary assistance budgets with appropriations from their General Expenditure Allowance (GEA); calls on Parliament’s administration to take the necessary measures to enable Members who wish to do so to use their GEA to cover the cost of APA missions; highlights that such a measure would address increasing costs in Members’ offices while being budgetary neutral;

    39.  Calls on the Bureau not to index the GEA and not to grant GEA to former Members, thus allowing for significant savings in the statutory costs;

    40.  Calls on the Bureau to revise the rules and to introduce a cooling-off period for former Members during which they cannot engage in lobbying or representational activities with the Parliament equal to the time during which Members receive a transitional allowance;

    41.  Recalls that Parliament has consistently voted in Plenary since 2018 to consider lifting the overall ban on APAs participating in official delegations and missions; regrets that the Conference of Presidents’ decisions of March 2025 on the Implementing provisions governing the missions outside the three places of work of the European Parliament did not align with Plenary’s call; maintains its position that APAs should be allowed, under certain conditions, to accompany Members on official delegations and missions; calls on its relevant bodies to amend the relevant articles of its internal rules to allow the participation of APAs in official missions and delegations outside Parliament’s three places of work without further delay;

    42.  Welcomes the work of the APA Committee which represents around 2 000 APAs, whose work is crucial to the smooth operation of the MEP’s daily activities; notes the earmarking of EUR 10 000 in order for the APA Committee to fulfil its role and ensure sufficient resources to effectively support and properly represent the APAs;

    43.  Welcomes the exceptional 10 % increase in scholarships for each trainee in 2026, budgeted for EUR 1 million in 2026 to help them cope with growing housing costs in Brussels and Luxembourg;

    44.  Expects that requests voted by the Plenary should be treated by the responsible bodies as a matter of high priority;

    o
    o   o

    45.  Adopts the estimates for the financial year 2026;

    46.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution and the estimates to the Council and the Commission.

    (1) OJ L 433 I, 22.12.2020, p. 11, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2020/2093/oj.
    (2) OJ C 444 I, 22.12.2020, p. 4.
    (3) OJ C 445, 29.10.2021, p. 252.
    (4) OJ L 325, 20.12.2022, p. 11, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2496/oj.
    (5) OJ L, 2024/765, 29.2.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/765/oj.
    (6) OJ C 445, 29.10.2021, p. 240.
    (7) OJ C 177, 17.5.2023, p. 115.
    (8) OJ C, C/2024/1195, 23.02.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2024/1195/oj.
    (9) OJ C, C/2024/6751, 26.11.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2024/6751/oj.
    (10) OJ L 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj.
    (11) OJ L 433 I, 22.12.2020, p. 28, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/agree_interinstit/2020/1222/oj.
    (12) OJ L, 2025/31, 27.2.2025, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/budget/2025/31/oj.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus Endorses Salazar’s TAKE IT DOWN Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar’s (FL-27)

    strong>(Washington, D.C.) –  Yesterday, the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus announced its endorsement of H.R. 633, the TAKE IT DOWN Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation to protect victims of real and deepfake revenge pornography. The bill unanimously passed in the Senate in February 2025 and is scheduled for a markup in the House Energy and Commerce Committee next week. 

    Rep. Salazar reintroduced this bill in January and is leading the effort in the House of Representatives to get it signed into law. President Trump endorsed the TAKE IT DOWN Act during his most recent address to Congress. You can see his remarks here. First Lady Melania Trump has also been a strong advocate for the TAKE IT DOWN Act and hosted a roundtable on Capitol Hill last month to advocate for the legislation and call for a vote in the House. You can see Rep. Salazar’s remarks at the roundtable here. 

    “My TAKE IT DOWN Act will finally give innocent victims real protection from online exploitation. Websites and platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok must remove fake, compromising pornographic images within 48 hours or face consequences. No more inaction. No more excuses: if you exploit an innocent child, you will face jail time,” said Congresswoman María Salazar (FL-27).

    “The increasing use of artificial intelligence to create and circulate deep fake pornography threatens the mental and emotional health and financial security of its victims, primarily women. Perpetrators have used deep fake pornography as a tool to harass, humiliate, and intimidate women online, often in response to them speaking out or advocating for themselves. This is a serious and growing issue I’m deeply concerned about. I’m proud the TAKE IT DOWN Act has been endorsed by the Problem Solvers Caucus, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on this urgent, bipartisan priority,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06).

    “In an age where personal privacy can be violated with a click, the TAKE IT DOWN Act provides a much-needed federal safeguard. This legislation addresses both non-consensual intimate imagery and the insidious rise of AI-generated deepfakes, establishing a clear legal standard: victims have the right to have these exploitative images removed, and perpetrators will be held accountable. It is a commonsense and essential measure to protect Americans, empower survivors, uphold justice, and align our laws with the challenges of the digital era,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01).

    “The publication of sexually exploitative images—including AI-generated deepfakes – is a terrifying and destructive part of the digital age,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03). “I applaud the First Lady for bringing attention to this issue, and the Problem Solvers Caucus will work with her across party lines to pass the TAKE IT DOWN Act to address these reprehensible acts. Let it be the first of many actions we take in this Congress to get things done.”

    “Congress must make sure there are protections in place, especially for minors, as technology rapidly evolves. The TAKE IT DOWN Act will make sure that when individuals are victimized and inappropriately distorted through AI, they have strong mechanisms to take action and remedy such traumatic situations,” said Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11).

    “As a member of Congress, I’m pleased to be joining as a co-sponsor of the TAKE IT DOWN Act, a vital step in safeguarding the dignity and safety of individuals, particularly our most vulnerable. This legislation ensures the swift removal of harmful content and holds perpetrators accountable, prioritizing the protection and well-being of those affected by deep fakes and non-consensual intimate imagery,” said Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28).

    More information about the TAKE IT DOWN Act can be found here.

     The full text of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: BSTDB and Express Leasing Strengthen Partnership to Support Small Business, Green Finance and Women Entrepreneurs in Moldova

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 07-Apr-2025

    Empowering Businesses with Sustainable Finance and Equal Growth Opportunities

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has provided a USD 3 million combined Micro and SME, Green, and Gender Equality Credit Line to the Moldovan microfinance institution Express Leasing and Microcredit SRL.

    The financing will support micro and small businesses across Moldova, including projects with sustainability impact. This initiative reflects BSTDB’s commitment to SMEs and climate-conscious financing, helping to align its operations with the climate priorities of its shareholders and contributing to the broader decarbonization efforts in the region.

    A portion of the funds will be allocated to supporting women entrepreneurs, promoting inclusive economic growth and fostering greater opportunities for women-led businesses in the country.

    “The financing to Express Leasing consists of  three  key components, all aimed at  supporting sustainable market development, a  core objective of BSTDB’s  strategy. By extending funds for green investments and empowering women entrepreneurs, we are not only strengthening Moldova’s SME sector but also enhancing our contribution to a low-carbon and more inclusive regional economy,” said Dr. Serhat Köksal, BSTDB President.

    We are honored to strengthen our collaboration with BSTDB through this credit line that will enable us to reach more entrepreneurs, particularly women and those committed to sustainability,” said Sergiu Rosca, Executive Director of Express Leasing. “This partnership empowers us to continue supporting Moldova’s small businesses—the backbone of our economy—while also driving green innovation and inclusivity in finance.

     

    OCN ICS “Express Leasing & Microcredit” SRL is a limited liability leading non-bank financial institution incorporated in the Republic of Moldova. Owned 100% by Broadhurst Investment Limited (registered in Cyprus), the company’s main activity is loan and lease financing focusing on SMEs and micro-financing sector.

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact: Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CBASS helps Belconnen store transition online

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Dejan started Bruce Super Convenience in 2017.

    Dejan Andrevski is well known for running a convenience store with a difference.

    Stocking an array of imported foods from the US and Europe, he started Bruce Super Convenience in 2017.

    He is now looking to move from a bricks and mortar business to a full e-commerce model.

    But how did someone who had three degrees, a foray in investment banking and years of tech start-up work decide he wanted to start a convenience store?

    “My last tech start-up had wrapped up, my wife was pregnant and was like ‘please don’t do another tech start-up, we need consistent pay for the next few years’,” he laughed.

    “I applied for a bunch of accounting jobs, and went to some interviews, but it just didn’t feel right.

    “I saw an ad for this shop that was being sold and I joked with my wife that maybe I could start a shop.

    “Later than night, the spreadsheets were out, and I started thinking, maybe this could actually work,” he said. “I wanted to go out on my own and prove to myself I could do this, without financial backers, and that if it was a success, it was me and if it failed, it was me.”

    It was a success. Dejan’s shop has become well known across Canberra. It even made the Daily Mail this year for stocking imported Biscoff Easter eggs.

    But Dejan’s business reached a tipping point.

    “A new development across the street from our store broke ground three years ago. It was going to include a big supermarket, so we started looking at how we could continue to stay on the front foot, and to be honest, stay in business,” he said.

    Dejan had an investment partner on board. He made an offer to operate the supermarket and began looking at floor plans and fit outs for the new premises.

    However, things took a turn, and the space was bought out by another buyer. It went for almost double the price, which meant Dejan was no longer able to open in the new development.

    “This was only six months ago,” Dejan said. “It was difficult, but we’ve had to adjust and look at how to move forward.”

    That’s when he reached out to the Canberra Business Advice and Support Service (CBASS).

    He wanted to look at how they might further expand their online following and move their store to a full e-commerce offering.

    “Candice and Anna from CBASS have such a great perspective on business. They’ve been in the game a long time and are very practical. They get you to look at hard business targets, but also offer a different, new and measured perspective,” he said.

    “It’s made me ask questions of my business and myself, that I wouldn’t normally, and they’ve been a great support as we transition the business.”

    The ACT Government funds the CBASS program. It offers emerging, new and established businesses in Canberra up to four hours of free business advice.

    With years of industry experience, Anna and Candice are a well of business knowledge.

    “I think a lot of business owners in Canberra can benefit from their support,” Dejan said. “Especially new business owners who don’t know where to start.”

    On Sunday 19 May, Dejan officially closed the Bruce shopfront. People lined up for up to three hours to buy their speciality snacks and imported goodies.

    “Our next goal is to focus on recreating the revenue we created in store, online,” Dejan said.

    “We’re also looking at how we can diversify and move into the wholesale market for the imported products we’re bringing in.”

    You can visit Dejan’s online store to view the selection of speciality and imported snacks and goodies.

    If you’re looking for business support – whether you’re new to business or just starting out – contact CBASS to find out more.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Climate Choices Business Award winners announced

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Businesses from across the Canberra region have been recognised for their sustainability achievements.

    Today, businesses from across the Canberra region were recognised for their sustainability achievements at the annual Climate Choices Business Awards.

    The awards recognise some of Canberra’s most innovative businesses as the city works towards net-zero emissions.

    The awards received high-quality nominations from a diverse range of organisations.

    This demonstrates a strong commitment to climate action and emissions reduction from the Canberra business community.

    Sustainable choices can sometimes come with an upfront cost, such as those associated with appliance upgrades or installation of EV chargers. The success of businesses such as the award recipients shows that such investments will pay off – for businesses and the community.

    Many of the award-winning businesses benefitted from financial assistance and expert advice from the ACT Government’s Sustainable Business Program.

    Through the program, businesses can receive support to improve sustainability and demonstrate climate leadership in their operations.

    2024 Climate Choices Business Award winners

    Category Business/event
    Zero Emissions Early Movers Goodwin Aged Care Services
    Energy Star Canberra Services Club
    Waste Minimisation Les Bistronomes
    Sustainable Event National Folk Festival
    Sustainable Small Business of the Year Embassy of Belgium
    Corporate Climate Leader Waves Carwash
    Innovation Excellence GREN
    Minister’s Award for Leadership Steven Blakemore
    The Canberra Tradesmen’s Union Club (Dickson Tradies)

    Find out more about the Sustainable Business Program.

    For more information visit the Everyday Climate Choices website.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Malaysia credit and charge card payments market to grow by 6.8% in 2025, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Malaysia credit and charge card payments market to grow by 6.8% in 2025, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Banking

    Malaysia’s credit and charge card payments market is expected to register a growth of 6.8% to reach MYR245.7 billion ($53.7 billion) in 2025. This growth will be driven by the rising consumer spending and increasing consumer preference for cashless transactions, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s Payment Cards Analytics reveals that credit and charge card payment value in Malaysia registered a growth of 7.9% in 2024, driven by the rise in consumer spending. The value is forecast to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% between 2025 and 2029 to reach MYR304.3 billion ($66.5 billion) in 2029.

    Kartik Challa, Senior Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Credit and charge cards were the most preferred payment cards in Malaysia, accounting for 59.7% of total card payment value in 2024. This was mainly driven by the rewards, discounts, cashback, and interest-free installment facilities offered with these cards, as well as developing payment infrastructure and a growing e-commerce market.”

    Malaysians are increasingly using credit and charge cards for payments, with the frequency of payments per card standing at 82.8 times in 2024, much higher compared to 37.7 times for debit cards. This figure is anticipated to further rise to 107.1 by 2029.

    Challa adds: “This is driven by banks offering flexible repayment options and value-added benefits such as cashback, reward points, discounts, and installment facilities. CIMB Malaysia offers ‘0% Easy Pay,’ allowing customers to pay for purchases in monthly interest free installment of up to 36 months at more than 1,000 participating merchants.”

    Growing POS terminalization has been another key driver for the rise of credit and charge cards in Malaysia. The number of POS terminals per million inhabitants in Malaysia stood at 27,693 in 2024, which is higher compared to its peers such as Thailand (13,507), Indonesia (8,142), India (6,964) and Vietnam (5,988), though there is significant room for further expansion of POS infrastructure.

    Rising e-commerce payments are also contributing to the growth in credit and charge card usage. According to GlobalData’s E-Commerce Analytics, credit and charge cards are one of the most preferred payment methods for online payments, with 17.1% share in 2024.

    Moreover, banks in Malaysia offer debt consolidation option to credit card holders, which will further help boost usage. For instance, UOB offers the UOB Bank Transfer program, which allows customers to consolidate their outstanding credit card balances from other banks. The program is designed to help credit card holders to manage their debt and avoid default by offering lower interest rate and extended repayment terms.

    Challa concludes: “The Malaysian credit and charge card market is poised for sustained growth over the next five years, driven by the economic recovery, growing consumer preference for electronic payments, a rising middle-class and young working population, and growth in e-commerce payments. However, challenges such as global trade war between major countries, and geopolitical uncertainty remain obstacles to the market.”

    *GlobalData’s 2024 Financial Services Consumer Survey was carried out in Q2 2024. Approximately 67,292 respondents aged 18+ were surveyed across 41 countries.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Asian equities lead global sell-off after US-China trade dispute escalates, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Asian equities lead global sell-off after US-China trade dispute escalates, says GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Following the announcement of President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs across the world coupled with China’s retaliatory measures;

    Murthy Grandhi, Company Profiles Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view:

    “Global financial markets were rocked on Monday (07 April 2025) by a widespread sell-off, as escalating recession fears and a sudden tariff standoff between the US and China sent shockwaves across major economies. Asian equities suffered their worst rout in years, plunging to multi-year lows in a day marked by panic and uncertainty.

    “The market meltdown was sparked by the US administration’s surprise imposition of sweeping tariffs on Chinese imports, swiftly countered by Beijing’s retaliatory levies. The renewed trade war fears have reignited concerns of a global economic slowdown, shattering already fragile investor confidence. Consequently, the ripple effects are being felt far beyond their borders—roiling emerging markets, disrupting global supply chains, and eroding capital markets’ resilience

    “Japan’s Nikkei 225 and the broader Topix index both plunged sharply, with all constituents in the red, prompting a brief halt in futures trading as circuit breakers kicked in. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng endured one of its steepest declines in recent years, while China’s CSI300 and Shanghai Composite also witnessed significant losses, driven by sharp selloffs in major tech names like Alibaba and Tencent.

    “The downturn rippled across Asia—South Korea’s Kospi, Singapore’s benchmark, and Taiwan’s equity markets all faced steep declines. Markets in Malaysia and the Philippines followed suit, adding to the region-wide sell-off. India was not spared either, with the Sensex and Nifty 50 tumbling and wiping out trillions in investor wealth in a single session. All 30 Sensex stocks closed in the red, with Tata Steel, Tata Motors, and major IT firms among the biggest drags.

    “Meanwhile, US futures signalled further pain ahead following Friday’s steep losses, where the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow each shed nearly 6%.

    “GlobalData believes the path forward hinges on policy clarity and diplomatic engagement. While China may remain an outlier in near-term negotiations, signs of constructive trade talks with other key economies could help restore investor confidence. Historically, markets have shown a capacity to rebound strongly when geopolitical risks subside or when policy responses appear measured. As such, even modest diplomatic progress or tariff rollbacks could serve as catalysts for a broad-based recovery in global equities.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: China reaffirms commitment to opening up at roundtable with US-funded businesses

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Ministry of Commerce hosted a roundtable meeting with U.S.-funded companies on Sunday, reaffirming the country’s commitment to reform and opening up amid global trade tensions.

    Ling Ji, vice minister of commerce and deputy China international trade representative, chaired the meeting, which was attended by representatives from more than 20 U.S. companies, including Tesla, GE Healthcare, and Medtronic.

    Regardless of global uncertainties, China remains resolute in its path toward reform and opening up, Ling said, noting that multilateralism is the inevitable solution to the challenges facing the world and China’s door to the outside world will only open wider.

    He reiterated that China’s policies to attract foreign investment have not changed and will not change.

    The ministry will continue to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of foreign enterprises in China, including those from the United States, and actively respond to their concerns, Ling said.

    The roundtable came amid a new round of trade tensions as the United States recently hiked tariffs on trade partners including China. Ling condemned the move, calling it a serious blow to the rules-based multilateral trade system and an infringement on the legitimate rights of other nations.

    China has taken firm countermeasures in response, aimed not only at defending the rights of affected enterprises — including U.S.-funded companies — but also at letting the United States return to the multilateral framework, Ling said.

    Calling the United States itself the root cause of current turbulence, Ling urged U.S. businesses operating in China to examine the situation objectively, voice rational perspectives, and take pragmatic steps to help stabilize global supply chains and promote cooperation for mutual benefits. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China reaffirms commitment to opening up at roundtable with U.S.-funded businesses

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

    China reaffirms commitment to opening up at roundtable with U.S.-funded businesses

    BEIJING, April 7 — China’s Ministry of Commerce hosted a roundtable meeting with U.S.-funded companies on Sunday, reaffirming the country’s commitment to reform and opening up amid global trade tensions.

    Ling Ji, vice minister of commerce and deputy China international trade representative, chaired the meeting, which was attended by representatives from more than 20 U.S. companies, including Tesla, GE Healthcare, and Medtronic.

    Regardless of global uncertainties, China remains resolute in its path toward reform and opening up, Ling said, noting that multilateralism is the inevitable solution to the challenges facing the world and China’s door to the outside world will only open wider.

    He reiterated that China’s policies to attract foreign investment have not changed and will not change.

    The ministry will continue to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of foreign enterprises in China, including those from the United States, and actively respond to their concerns, Ling said.

    The roundtable came amid a new round of trade tensions as the United States recently hiked tariffs on trade partners including China. Ling condemned the move, calling it a serious blow to the rules-based multilateral trade system and an infringement on the legitimate rights of other nations.

    China has taken firm countermeasures in response, aimed not only at defending the rights of affected enterprises — including U.S.-funded companies — but also at letting the United States return to the multilateral framework, Ling said.

    Calling the United States itself the root cause of current turbulence, Ling urged U.S. businesses operating in China to examine the situation objectively, voice rational perspectives, and take pragmatic steps to help stabilize global supply chains and promote cooperation for mutual benefits.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA to boost consumer and business confidence as new consumer protection regime comes into force

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    CMA to boost consumer and business confidence as new consumer protection regime comes into force

    CMA now able to act more swiftly and directly to protect UK consumers and foster a level playing field for businesses to invest and grow.

    • New regime will help the CMA tackle poor corporate practices, protecting consumers and boosting trust and confidence to support economic growth
    • CMA will support businesses to do the right thing by their customers, by helping them understand how to comply
    • CMA commits to focusing early action on more egregious practices, including aggressive sales tactics, hidden fees and unfair contract terms

    Landmark new consumer protection provisions are now in force under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA), giving the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) the ability to deliver more effective consumer protection.

    The CMA will now be able to decide whether consumer protection laws have been infringed (rather than litigating through the courts) and to tackle any breaches directly and proportionately, including through consumer redress and fines. 

    The new regime will help the CMA to safeguard consumer interests while also enhancing trust – which supports spending and the adoption of new products and services across the economy. The CMA also emphasised the importance of fostering a level playing field for fair-dealing businesses – so they can grow and invest, confident that competitors cannot gain an advantage by breaking the law. Both of these ambitions reflect the contribution consumer protection can make to economic growth, as laid out in the government’s strategic steer to the CMA.  

    The CMA is clear that it intends to take a proportionate approach, supporting businesses to do the right thing by their customers while minimising compliance burdens – because when businesses get it right, customers benefit. To ensure businesses – large and small – have clarity and predictability around implementation of the new regime, the CMA has today published an ‘Approach to Consumer Protection’.

    The document sets out:

    • likely priority areas of enforcement and compliance activity
    • how the CMA will reflect the government’s strategic steer and its own planned improvements to key aspects of the way it works (pace, predictability, proportionality and process – the ‘4Ps’ framework)
    • what stakeholders can expect from the CMA

    The CMA and the UK government also published a joint statement today, reinforcing the CMA’s intended approach and the role of robust consumer protection in helping to grow the economy by promoting trust and confidence, while deterring poor corporate practices.

    Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, said:

    Consumers deserve to know that the CMA has their back; and fair-dealing businesses looking to grow and invest deserve to know that their competitors are playing by the same rules. We will use the new regime to strengthen the trust and confidence of consumers and businesses – supporting economic growth and incentivising good corporate practice.

    Most businesses work hard to serve their customers and do the right thing. We recognise the importance, particularly for small businesses, of any new rules being clear and proportionate to comply with – and that this is a period of change when they may need help to understand their legal obligations. We’re working hard to support them with that and keep burdens to a minimum – through accessible guidance and communications, as well as direct engagement – alongside listening and responding to feedback.

    Justin Madders, Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets, said:  

    These measures mean consumers can confidently make purchases knowing they are protected against fake reviews and dripped pricing.  

    These changes will give consumers more power and control over their hard-earned cash, as well as help to establish a level playing field by deterring bad actors that undercut compliant businesses, helping to deliver economic stability as part of our Plan for Change.

    The DMCCA includes an explicit ban on the posting and commissioning of fake reviews – which has been added to the banned practices list [link]. The CMA has previously taken action in this area and will be focused on ensuring compliance with the new provisions.

    The DMCCA also updates the law on pricing information businesses must show to customers. This includes a ban on ‘drip pricing’ – where shoppers are shown an initial price for a product, but more fees are added (‘dripped’) as they proceed with their purchase.

    The CMA has now issued guidance to ensure businesses understand how to comply with those aspects of the law which are already well established and largely unchanged. Before enforcing new provisions, and following clear feedback, the CMA has said it will consult further on newer aspects which have created some uncertainty – such as fixed-term periodic contracts – with the aim of publishing final guidance in the autumn.

    Action: The first 12 months

    The CMA will target behaviour that is particularly harmful to consumers and represents clear infringements of the law, such as:

    • aggressive sales practices that prey on consumers in vulnerable positions
    • fees that are hidden until late in the buying process
    • information being given to consumers that is objectively false
    • unfair and unbalanced contract terms
    • behaviour where the CMA has already put down a clear marker through its previous enforcement work, such as on drip pricing and fake reviews

    The 4Ps: Proportionality, predictability, process and pace

    In November 2024, the CMA committed to meaningful changes across four key aspects of how it works – proportionality, predictability, process and pace. The changes are designed to ensure that the CMA contributes to a regulatory environment which supports growth, whilst continuing to fulfil its statutory mandate to promote competition and protect consumers.

    The CMA’s Approach document sets out how this framework will be embedded into the CMA’s consumer protection work. This includes commitments to streamline cases, minimise uncertainty, engage regularly with business, resolve cases as early as possible and ensure fines are proportionate (reflecting the seriousness of the behaviour).

    Next steps

    The CMA has outlined its immediate next steps. They include:

    • opening its first enforcement cases under the new regime, focusing on more egregious breaches of the law
    • working with stakeholders to understand what areas or issues most require consumer law advice to remove barriers to growth
    • setting out how businesses can bring forward evidence of competitors that are potentially infringing the law
    • exploring new opportunities for businesses to get advice from the CMA where a lack of legal precedent could be impacting innovation

    Businesses who are concerned about a company’s behaviour can report directly to the CMA online: Report a competition or market problem.

    Notes to editors

    1. All media enquiries should be directed to the CMA Press Office by email on press@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6460.
    2. Under the new consumer regime, if a company infringes consumer protection law, the CMA can fine them up to 10% of their global turnover. If a company breaches undertakings it has given the CMA, it could face fines of up to 5% of its global turnover – with additional daily penalties for continued non-compliance. Failure to provide information when requested (without a legitimate reason), concealing evidence, or providing false information can likewise result in a fine, with penalties of up to 1% of a business’ global turnover and additional daily penalties.
    3. Given the CMA’s powers cannot be applied retrospectively, it is likely that any fines for breaches of the law in the first 12 months will be lower than in the years to follow.
    4. Fixed-term periodic contracts are contracts that lock consumers in for a minimum period of time, such as a 6-month gym membership.
    5. To help businesses comply with the changes introduced by the new consumer regime, the CMA issued 3 pieces of guidance last week:
      • Direct consumer enforcement guidance CMA200: which sets out how the CMA will use its direct enforcement powers under the DMCCA.
      • Consumer protection: enforcement guidance CMA58: which provides an updated summary of the CMA’s consumer investigatory and enforcement powers and functions.
      • Unfair commercial practices guidance CMA207: The unfair commercial practices (UCP) provisions in Chapter 1 of Part 4 of the DMCC Act prohibit unfair commercial practices, replacing and updating the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. This draft guidance illustrates how the UCP provisions may apply in practice and is intended to help traders to comply with them.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Initiative to help workers improve

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

    More than 3 million industrial workers in China will receive financial support for continuing education by 2030 under a nationwide initiative aimed at improving workforce skills, according to a guideline released on Thursday.

    The document, jointly issued by the All-China Federation of Trade Unions, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, lays out plans to help industrial workers pursue further education and enhance their qualifications.

    At least 300 programs will be established to help workers boost their academic credentials and vocational skills, the guideline said. More than 3 million eligible workers, including at least 2 million migrant workers, will receive financial aid for continuing and non-degree education.

    The initiative seeks to promote lifelong learning among industrial workers and encourage them to upgrade their capabilities, contributing to the development of a world-class workforce, according to the guideline.

    China has about 402 million workers, with industrial workers accounting for about half the total workforce, according to the All-China Federation of Trade Unions.

    The initiative was officially launched on Wednesday in Beijing. Since 2016, the trade union federation and the Ministry of Education have implemented a program to improve the educational levels of migrant workers, which has produced notable results.

    As of June 2024, trade unions nationwide had invested a total of 1.12 billion yuan ($154 million) to help more than 2.4 million migrant workers upgrade their educational qualifications and skills.

    The newly released guideline expands the initiative to include all industrial workers and outlines five key objectives: innovating talent training models, enhancing learning platforms, expanding educational resources, improving the recognition and transfer of learning outcomes, and encouraging greater enterprise involvement.

    The document calls for collaboration among government bodies, trade unions, businesses, educational institutions and society to strengthen workforce training. Schools and companies are encouraged to jointly establish off-campus teaching or training centers for continuing education.

    “Specialized programs and projects tailored to industrial workers that are closely aligned with industrial, supply and innovation chains should be developed. Existing platforms, such as the national smart vocational education platform and the Workers’ Home app, should be leveraged to build a national smart learning platform for industrial skills,” the guideline said.

    Enterprises are also encouraged to increase investment in worker education and support paid learning opportunities, it said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Clear direction for local social enterprise

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Easy Read Toolbox employs people with disability to provide writing, workshops and more.

    Karen Hedley is not only passionate about inclusive communication, but she’s now dedicating her days to making communication easier for everyone to understand.

    Karen is the founder of one of Canberra’s many successful social enterprises, The Easy Read Toolbox.

    She primarily employs people with disability to provide writing, workshops and more.

    To get started, Karen signed up for the GRIST accelerator with The Mill House Ventures, a non-profit helping social enterprises across the region.

    “During GRIST I decided to set up The Easy Read Toolbox as its own company, teaching others about Easy Read and accessible communication. From there it has grown in leaps and bounds, and now includes custom writing, memberships, workshops and more,” Karen said.

    The organisation’s simplified form of writing was originally intended for people with disability, but it’s suitable for everyone.

    “Our aim is to change communication in our community, to increase inclusion and support people to make informed choices and protect their human rights. When people feel overwhelmed by complex information they give up on important processes,” she said.

    “Members of our Feedback Group – people with cognitive disabilities who review our documents as quality management – have told us how important Easy Read being available is to them.”

    The female-led, disability-led social enterprise has a unique employment model.

    “We primarily employ people with disabilities of all kinds, and people with lived experience of disability. Our values mean that we pay everyone fairly, equivalent to non-disabled peers.

    “We recruit based on potential and interests, and assign work based on these. We encourage our team to be innovative and passionate, and to allow us to support their development.

    “We also provide a highly flexible workplace, allowing the team to set their own work schedule and style. As a result, our team is flexible, dedicated, supportive and high achieving,” Karen said.

    The business has around six regular staff and contractors, and nearly 30 occasional contractors including writers, artists and photographers.

    “Most of our clients come through word of mouth and return multiple times. Having written documents for a number of large not-for-profits, corporates and government departments, our work has potentially been seen by tens of thousands of people,” she said.

    Running a social enterprise has made for some satisfying moments. For a number of Karen’s team, this is their first employment opportunity.

    “Several of our younger contractors have said we were the first to give them a chance at working. Knowing we are paying them fairly is amazing too,” she said.

    Her Mill House connections are also playing an ongoing role in her success.

    “It has been great being part of the Mill House alumni. The team is knowledgeable and proactive at linking founders with important information and contacts in the community. Plus, the alumni network is quite close knit. It’s always great to catch up online and in person at local events.”

    Applications for the four-month 2024 GRIST program are now open to anyone in the region with an idea for a for-purpose business.

    The Easy Read Toolbox was recently awarded $10,000 in matched funding as part of the ACT Government’s new Social Enterprise grants program, managed by The Mill House Ventures.

    The Easy Read Toolbox will be one of the many exhibitors at the CBR Small Business Expo on 9 May at the Budawang Pavilion at EPIC. Come along to find out more about what they do. They can also be reached via their website or LinkedIn.

    The Easy Read Toolbox founder Karen and employee Ladina

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pallone at Town Hall: When Constituents Speak Up, Change Happens

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

    METUCHEN, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) hosted a town hall at Metuchen High School tonight, where 100s of constituents turned out to speak up about runaway cost inflation, health care cuts, and the Trump administration’s mounting attacks on essential government programs.

    Pallone, the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, took dozens of questions and underscored a message that ran throughout the evening: when New Jerseyans speak up, we get results.

    “I successfully fought back against Trump’s cuts to the 9/11 health care program because constituents raised their voices,” Pallone said. “When I heard from first responders like Frank Granger in Piscataway, I made sure my colleagues in Congress understood what was at stake—Trump was ripping away care that 9/11 heroes depend on just to hand more money to billionaires. That public pressure worked. The administration paused the layoffs. That’s the power of speaking out.”

    Pallone urged the crowd to keep up the pressure as Republicans—now in control of the House, Senate, and White House—advance an extreme agenda. Their proposals include slashing at least $880 billion from Medicaid, issuing an executive order to eliminate the Department of Education, and gutting Social Security services. He warned that these drastic cuts would shift costs onto local communities and put seniors, children, and people with disabilities at risk.

    Specifically, the Congressman warned that Trump’s executive order to dismantle the Department of Education would force New Jersey towns to raise property taxes just to keep schools open—and that cuts to Medicaid would have devastating consequences for children, seniors, and people with disabilities across the state.

    “Republicans handed power to unelected billionaires like Elon Musk to make these decisions behind closed doors,” Pallone said. “But they still answer to you. When constituents flood their offices, share their stories, and demand action—that’s how we stop these attacks.”

    Tonight’s town hall followed an unprecedented surge in outreach to Pallone’s office, as thousands of constituents have spoken out against proposed Republican cuts to Medicaid, Social Security, and federal workforce protections. On March 18, Pallone hosted a virtual town hall focused on proposed Republican Medicaid cuts which drew hundreds of attendees.

    “This room was full of passionate questions for a reason,” Pallone said. “New Jersey residents are paying attention. People are fed up with Republicans ignoring them. And they’re ready to fight back. The only way we stop these cruel policies is by showing up—and tonight, you did just that.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Old brand retailers refreshed into new urban escape amid consumption stimulation

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    On a sunny afternoon, people relax in a camp site recreation area, while others go head-to-head in a game of table tennis. You would be forgiven for thinking this is a holiday destination, when in fact it’s a bustling shopping mall in downtown Beijing.

    The scene, at Hanguang Department Store in Xidan commercial district, represents a broader dynamic across China’s retail industry, with old brand shopping malls now offering urban dwellers a fresh take on respite.

    In 2024, China’s total retail sales of consumer goods neared 48.79 trillion yuan (about 6.79 trillion U.S. dollars), an increase of 3.5 percent over the previous year. However, retail sales by department stores declined, spurring many to make adjustments.

    For today’s consumers, shopping is more than retail therapy. It must also satisfy the public’s growing need for social interaction and experience. Such a phenomenon, together with the brunt of online shopping, has inspired more and more retailers to adapt to the changing trend and stimulate consumption.

    For its part, Hanguang Department Store has undergone a facelift last year, with a leisure venue forged that now attracts more people to visit and open their wallets.

    To improve its previously stuffy interior, two patios were transformed into an open-air courtyard, where ping-pong tables and rackets are available to the public.

    General manager Pu Jiajia said that after the revamp, business areas became smaller, but public channels grew, bringing customers a better shopping experience. “After the transformation, our sales have increased by about 5 percent.”

    In March, China issued a special action plan to boost consumption, proposing to “actively develop smart business areas and immersive experience spaces, while promoting the transformation of brick-and-mortar stores into new commercial places.”

    Now many traditional department stores have taken on a new look with dazzling bazaars, outdoor concerts and art exhibitions.

    A Beijing resident surnamed Fang, a mother of a primary school girl, takes her daughter to Chang’an Shopping Mall, a department store located about 3 kilometers away from Xidan, every Saturday morning.

    The newly upgraded shopping mall near Fang’s home is now a regular destination for her family at weekends. “My daughter attends Chinese calligraphy and roller skating classes, while I like to kill time by exploring the bookstores, bazaars and cafés,” Fang said.

    Shi Shufeng, assistant general manager of the shopping mall, stated that since initiating the transformation project in 2019, the mall has introduced experience-oriented services including education and wellness programs, bazaars and pet cafés.

    Moreover, the commercial complex expanded its dining and lifestyle services, and recorded an influx of nearly 18,000 visitors per day in 2024, up 70 percent compared to 2018.

    Yi Shaohua, a research fellow at the National Academy of Economic Strategy, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, believes that the transformation of traditional department stores is a mainstream trend.

    “Shopping malls used to be places to sell goods, but now they focus more on services,” Yi suggested.

    Wang Ning, an executive president of the Business School, Zhengzhou University, suggested that the transformation of traditional shopping malls should focus on the needs of consumers, while diversifying their goods options and improving their services.

    In catering to the appetite of young consumers, especially Generation Z and younger people, some retailers have made forays into the animation, comic and game (ACG) arena.

    At a rebuilt shopping center in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, an area on the first floor is a dedicated space for anime expos. ACG merchandise such as badges, acrylic figure stands and cards fly quickly off the shelves, while cosplayers mill about.

    Miss Liu, a college student and cosplay enthusiast, said she found a new way to chill out from the pressures of her studies and has made new friends with the same interests as her in the cosplay parade.

    She added that a trip to the mall now often starts with playing games, before scouting out the food offerings, and then a stroll through the mall, one floor after another.

    “I would say going shopping today feels more like an adventure rather than tedium,” the young shopper said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s proactive policy helps woo foreign investors

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on April 26, 2024 shows a BMW electric vehicle displayed at the signing ceremony for deepening strategic cooperation between BMW and Shenyang, in Shenyang, northeast China’s Liaoning Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Despite operating in different industry sectors, several multinational corporations — such as Germany’s Siemens AG, Tapestry Inc of the United States and Japan’s Takeda Pharmaceutical Co — share a common goal of stepping up investment in China’s high-tech and supply chain sectors to stay competitive.

    Their top executives, who attended the China Development Forum 2025 in Beijing in March, noted that the Chinese government’s proactive efforts — from expanding domestic demand to fostering emerging and future industries, and deepening international cooperation through greater openness — are sending out strong signals and continuously boosting the confidence of foreign businesses in the Chinese market, despite rising global trade protectionism, unilateralism and geopolitical tensions.

    One such company is Mercedes-Benz.

    The German automotive group will begin producing the long-wheelbase electric CLA, a compact luxury model, in China this year, followed by the long-wheelbase GLE SUV and an all-new electric van in the coming years.

    Ola Kaellenius, chairman of the board of management at Mercedes-Benz, said the company has made significant strides in research and development in China. Powered by its innovation centers in Beijing and Shanghai and supported by 2,000 local experts, the group has advanced its development of connectivity, digitalization, autonomous driving features and electric vehicle transformation.

    “Just like other European automotive companies, we have been among the biggest foreign beneficiaries of China’s rapid economic growth,” said Kaellenius.

    “At the same time, our industry has been one of the largest recipients of foreign direct investment in China. There is a strong interdependence between China and the European Union. Both sides want to protect jobs in their home markets while reaping the benefits of free international trade,” he added.

    Noting that China’s growing focus on boosting domestic consumption is giving global companies greater confidence to invest in the world’s second-largest economy, Joanne Crevoiserat, CEO of Tapestry, said the company is keen to contribute to the country’s consumption upgrade and expansion by bringing more innovative products to this market.

    Tapestry is a New York-based luxury goods maker and the parent company of brands like Coach and Kate Spade.

    “China is our largest market outside the US, and it is a major source of inspiration for us globally. Many of the innovations we develop here — through partnerships with Chinese companies to serve Chinese consumers — are later introduced to other markets around the world,” Crevoiserat said.

    The company, she added, is on track to achieve its goal of opening 100 stores in China between 2022 and 2025, with the milestone set to be reached by the end of this year.

    “In addition to investing in physical stores, or brick-and-mortar retail, we will also invest in digital, particularly with the advancements in the Chinese market, as local consumers are fairly digitally engaged,” she said. “So, we have been making investments into our digital capabilities and meeting the consumer demand in an omnichannel way.”

    Christophe Weber, president, CEO and representative director of Takeda Pharmaceutical Co, expressed a similar opinion.

    Takeda will make targeted investments in data and digital solutions in China to unleash the power of new technology for the future of healthcare, he said.

    In January, the Japanese company announced the signing of an investment cooperation agreement to establish its China innovation center in Chengdu, Sichuan province. The new facility will focus on digital healthcare innovation and leverage big data and artificial intelligence technologies to develop solutions.

    Eager to stabilize its appeal to global investors in 2025, China will further open up internet-related, cultural and other sectors in a well-regulated manner and expand pilot programs to open fields such as telecommunications, medical services and education, according to this year’s Government Work Report.

    The country will encourage foreign investors to increase reinvestment and support collaboration among upstream and downstream enterprises along industrial chains.

    The report said national treatment will be ensured for foreign-funded enterprises in areas such as access to production factors, licensing, standards setting and government procurement.

    Sang Baichuan, dean of the University of International Business and Economics’ Institute of International Economy in Beijing, said that China enjoys a stable political, economic and social environment when compared to several other countries.

    Amid mounting global economic headwinds, China’s steadfast commitment to opening-up, backed by consistent government support and a more level playing field, is encouraging, Sang said.

    As China’s innovation capabilities grow, foreign investors are increasingly shifting from “a manufacturingonly focus to collaborative research and development”, he added.

    Noting that high-tech, high-efficiency and high-quality growth have become key drivers of China’s economic transformation, aligning with its focus on new quality productive forces, Roland Busch, president and CEO of Siemens AG, said the country has made rapid advancements in artificial intelligence.

    First introduced in 2023, new quality productive forces refer to advanced productivity freed from the traditional economic growth mode and productivity development paths.

    Busch said innovations such as the open-source foundational model R1 by Chinese AI startup Deep-Seek are examples of how “China surprises us with innovations”.

    This momentum is not limited to the private sector.

    China’s centrally administered State-owned enterprises, such as State Grid Corp of China and China Mobile Ltd, have deployed AI technologies across more than 500 scenarios in key sectors such as manufacturing, smart vehicles, energy and power, according to information released by the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, the country’s top State assets regulator, in late March.

    These solutions have significantly reduced costs for central SOEs and their partners as well as improved efficiency in research and development, production and customer service.

    Seeing more opportunities in areas such as healthcare, consumption, advanced manufacturing and innovation-driven development, a total of 7,574 foreign-invested enterprises were newly established in China in the first two months of this year, representing a year-on-year growth of 5.8 percent, said the Ministry of Commerce.

    Investment from the United Kingdom, Germany and South Korea climbed by 87.9 percent, 54.7 percent and 45.2 percent year-on-year, respectively, in the first two months, according to the ministry.

    During separate meetings with several US business leaders, including Apple CEO Tim Cook and Wendell Weeks, chairman and CEO of Corning Inc, in Beijing in March, Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao said that China’s economy continues to consolidate and expand its recovery momentum even though it faces growing external uncertainties.

    Wang said ongoing policy measures will strongly support economic growth. China will continue to create favorable conditions for foreign companies to increase their investments within its market.

    The minister stressed that trade wars produce no winners and protectionism offers no solutions. As the world’s two largest economies, stronger China-US economic and trade cooperation is consistent with economic principles, while decoupling and supply chain disruptions would harm all parties involved, he said.

    Miguel Lopez, CEO of German industrial conglomerate Thyssenkrupp AG, said China is not only one of the largest markets for many foreign companies, but also home to the world’s most comprehensive industrial and supply chains, supported by a well-developed logistics system.

    Thyssenkrupp will continue to strengthen supply chain management in China and establish closer relationships with local suppliers. This will not only improve risk resilience and lower costs, but also benefit its global markets, Lopez said.

    “Looking ahead, only through open collaboration, technological innovation and sustainable development can we collectively build a more stable and efficient global supply chain,” he said.

    Antoine de Saint-Affrique, CEO of Danone SA, a French multinational food products company, said that given China’s economic significance, a healthy and growing China benefits the entire world.

    “Growth in China contributes to the expansion of the global economy, and a thriving global economy, in turn, supports shared prosperity and peace,” he added.

    Between January and February, foreign-invested businesses in China saw their export value grow 6.9 percent year-on-year to 1.08 trillion yuan ($148.9 billion), according to the General Administration of Customs.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Audit Confirms $1 Million in Federal Relief for Puerto Rican Fishers Was Never Distributed

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nydia M Velázquez (D-NY)

    WASHINGTON– A new federal audit, launched at the request of Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), confirms that $1 million in disaster relief intended to assist Puerto Rican fishers after the COVID-19 pandemic was never delivered. Each eligible fisher could have received between $2,419 and $15,000 for their losses.
     
    “It is incredibly frustrating to see how these funds—which could have made a huge difference—were wasted,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “Puerto Rican fishers have spent years waiting for help, only to see those resources mismanaged. This confirms what they’ve been saying from the beginning and shows how opaque, unilateral administrative decisions in managing recovery funds directly harm the communities most in need.”
     
    The audit, released by the Office of the Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Commerce, came in response to a 2022 request from Velázquez. It shows that the Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture failed to distribute a large portion of a $3.9 million federal aid package. The funds were granted through two cooperative agreements with NOAA, funded by the CARES Act and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.
     
    The report found that the Department failed to distribute $2.9 million in direct payments under the second round of funding, even after NOAA granted multiple deadline extensions. Officials cited low participation due to mistrust of the process and concerns about submitting tax documents. However, the official application notice stated that tax returns were not required, raising questions about the Department’s justification.
     
    The Department also attempted to use $1.5 million of the unused funds to purchase equipment, a request NOAA denied because it did not meet the purpose of the program. Later, the Department claimed nearly $400,000 in administrative expenses, which averages $682 per each of the 586 checks that were successfully delivered. The remaining $1 million will be returned to the U.S. Treasury.
     
    Velázquez called for continued oversight of federal recovery funds in Puerto Rico. “We cannot let this become the norm,” she emphasized. “With only 27 percent of the $41 billion allocated for Puerto Rico’s recovery spent so far, every dollar must be monitored, and every agency must be held accountable.”
     
    “The audit reflects the lack of urgency and commitment shown by the Department of Agriculture in managing funds from the Consolidated Appropriations Act—something the fishers have consistently denounced and one of the reasons they are calling on the Department to appoint a new director for the Fisheries Program. This is why they are demanding the immediate resignation of the current director, who is responsible for the loss of over $1 million and unjustifiable administrative costs in managing these funds,” said Juan Capella Noya, Community Consultant for Firmes, Unidos y Resilientes con la Abogacía (FURIA Inc.). He added, “Throughout this process, people both in the United States and Puerto Rico have echoed the fishers’ demands and taken action. Among them, Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez’s irreplaceable oversight work stands out—something we know the fishers are deeply grateful for.”
     
    For a full copy of the audit, click here.
     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s strengthening of export control on rare earth-related items reflects resolve to safeguard national security

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s export control measures on certain rare earth-related items have demonstrated its firm commitment to maintaining world peace and security, China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association said on Sunday.

    The remarks came after China’s Ministry of Commerce and General Administration of Customs on Friday announced export control measures on certain items related to seven types of medium and heavy rare earths.

    Rare earth-related items have both military and civil uses, the association said, adding that China’s export control measures have fully drawn on international practices.

    As long as companies are not engaged in activities that undermine China’s national sovereignty, security, or development interests, export control measures will not affect their normal business operations and trade activities, let alone the stability and security of international industrial and supply chains, the association said.

    The association added that Chinese rare earth enterprises will, in accordance with the requirements of Friday’s announcement, insist on higher-standard opening up and continue to beef up mutually beneficial cooperation with friendly countries.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Laobacha Haikou Bus inaugurates CICPE special route in China’s Hainan

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

    Laobacha Haikou Bus inaugurates CICPE special route in China’s Hainan

    Updated: April 7, 2025 07:11 Xinhua
    A crew member demonstrates a product, themed on the fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), on the Laobacha Haikou Bus’s CICPE special route in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 6, 2025. Ahead of the upcoming fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), the Laobacha Haikou Bus has inaugurated its CICPE special route. Laobacha is a beloved Hainan tradition where locals gather over fragrant tea, savory snacks, and leisurely chat. Featuring a panoramic sunroof and a music stage, the bus blends local culture with innovative expo-themed designs and connects popular tourist spots across the city, showcasing the charm of local tourism. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists take photos on the Laobacha Haikou Bus’s China International Consumer Products Expo special route in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A Laobacha Haikou Bus, which runs on a China International Consumer Products Expo special route, is seen in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist takes photos of the mascot of the fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) on the Laobacha Haikou Bus’s CICPE special route in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist enjoys snacks on the Laobacha Haikou Bus’s China International Consumer Products Expo special route in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Products themed on the fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) are seen on the Laobacha Haikou Bus’s CICPE special route in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Backing British business: Prime Minister unveils plan to support carmakers

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Backing British business: Prime Minister unveils plan to support carmakers

    The Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate will be changed to make it easier for industry to upgrade to make electric vehicles.

    • 2030 phase out date of new petrol and diesel car sales confirmed with hybrids to be sold until 2035 and small manufacturers exempt
    • firms given greater freedom on how to meet the target – easing pressure on industry
    • £2.3 billion to boost manufacturing zero emission vehicles and help working people make the switch
    • Prime Minister says new era means we must go ‘further and faster’ on the Plan for Change to spur growth that puts more money in working people’s pockets

    British car brands like Rolls-Royce, Vauxhall, and Land Rover are being given certainty, stability, and support as the Prime Minister sets out plans to back industry in the face of global economic headwinds today (7 April 2025).

    The Prime Minister will say the new era of global insecurity means that the government must go further and faster reshaping our economy through the Plan for Change.

    The Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate will be changed to make it easier for industry to upgrade to make electric vehicles, while delivering the manifesto commitment to stop sales of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, which will help even more British consumers access the benefits of cheap to run electric vehicles. 

    The package will be backed by a modern Industrial Strategy, to be published in full this summer, which will help British businesses realise the potential of industries of the future.

    The changes, which reflect extensive consultation, will help the car industry by:

    • increasing flexibility of the mandate for manufacturers up to 2030, so that more cars can be sold in later years when demand is higher
    • allowing hybrid cars – like the Toyota Prius and Nissan e-Power – to be sold until 2035 to help ease the transition and give industry more time to prepare
    • continuing to boost demand for electric vehicles, on top of the £2.3 billion we’re already spending on boosting British manufacturing and improving charging infrastructure – with a new charge-point popping up every half an hour
    • pressing on with tax breaks worth hundreds of millions of pounds to help people switch to electric vehicles

    Support for the car industry will be kept under review as the impact of new tariffs become clear.

    This package is the latest in a series of pro-growth measures that the Prime Minister is announcing to counter the impact of new global headwinds and build a strong, resilient economy with more well-paid jobs.

    Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said:

    Global trade is being transformed so we must go further and faster in reshaping our economy and our country through our Plan for Change.

    I am determined to back British brilliance. Now more than ever UK businesses and working people need a government that steps up, not stands aside.

    That means action, not words. So today I am announcing bold changes to the way we support our car industry.

    This will help ensure home-grown firms can export British cars built by British workers around the world and the industry can look forward with confidence, as well as back with pride.

    And it will boost growth that puts money in working people’s pockets, the first priority of our Plan for Change.

    Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: 

    We will always back British business. In the face of global economic challenges and stifled by a lack of certainty and direction for too long, our automotive industry deserves clarity, ambition and leadership. That is exactly what we are delivering today.

    Our ambitious package of strengthening reforms will protect and create jobs – making the UK a global automotive leader in the switch to EVs – all the while meeting our core manifesto commitment to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030.

    Once again, the Prime Minister’s decisive and bold actions show how we’re on the side of British business while harnessing the opportunities of the zero emissions transition to create jobs and drive growth, securing Britain’s future, and delivering our Plan for Change.

    In recognition of the changing global trading landscape, the government has worked with the industry to both strengthen its commitment to the phase out and introduce practical reforms to support industry meet this ambition.

    Demand for electric vehicles is already rising, with the latest data showing sales in March were up over 40% on last year, which will help with the transition.

    There is a huge opportunity to be harnessed here – with the UK being the largest EV market in Europe. Over £6 billion of private funding is lined up to be invested in the UK’s chargepoint roll-out by 2030. Since July, the government has also seen £34.8 billion of private investment announced into UK’s clean energy industries.

    The updated ZEV Mandate will ensure flexibilities support UK manufacturers by: 

    • maintaining the existing phase-out dates and headline trajectories for cars and vans
    • extending the current ability to borrow in 2024-26, to enable repayment through to 2030
    • extending the current ability to transfer non-ZEVs to ZEVs from 2024-26, out to 2029, giving significant additional flexibility to reward CO2 savings from hybrids – caps will be included to ensure credibility
    • introducing a new flexibility by allowing for van to car transfer, i.e. 1 car credit will be exchanged for 0.4 van credits, and 1 van credit will be exchanged for 2.0 car credits 

    The wide-ranging package of measures introduced today will also exempt small and micro-volume manufacturers – supercar brands including McLaren and Aston Martin – from the Mandate targets, preserving some of the UK car industry’s most iconic jewels for years to come.

    Vans with an internal combustion engine (ICE) will also be allowed to be sold until 2035, alongside full hybrids and plug-in hybrid vans.

    Employing 152,000 people and adding £19 billion to our economy, the UK’s automotive industry is a huge asset to our nation – and the transition to zero emissions is the biggest opportunity of the 21st century to attract investment, harness British innovation, and deliver growth for generations to come.

    Owning and buying an EV is becoming increasingly cheaper, with drivers able to save £1,100 a year compared to petrol if they charge overnight at home. Half of used electric cars are sold at under £20,000 and 29 brand new electric cars are available from under £30,000.

    The UK was also the largest EV market in Europe in 2024 and the third in the world with over 382,000 EVs sold – up a fifth on the previous year. There are now more than 75,000 public chargepoints in the UK – with one added every 29 minutes – ensuring that motorists are always a short drive from a socket.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    The world is changing but we are determined to deliver for working people, protect their jobs and put more pounds in their pockets.

    That is why we are backing British business and investing in industries of the future, including our car manufacturers.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    It is very important that the government has strengthened our commitment to our world leading EV transition plan.

    This plan will benefit UK consumers by expanding the market for cars that are cheaper to run. And it will support our domestic manufacturing so we can seize this global opportunity.

    Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    This pro-business government is taking the bold action needed to give our auto sector the certainty that secures jobs, drives investment and ensures they thrive on the global stage.

    Our Industrial Strategy will back the country’s high growth sectors, including advanced manufacturing, so we can grow the economy and deliver on the promises of our Plan for Change.

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    Published 6 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Momentum Growing: Large and Small Business Orgs Line Up Behind Bipartisan Cantwell Trade Bill Due to Concerns Costs on Consumer Goods Will Rise, She Announces On Face the Nation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    04.06.25

    Momentum Growing: Large and Small Business Orgs Line Up Behind Bipartisan Cantwell Trade Bill Due to Concerns Costs on Consumer Goods Will Rise, She Announces On Face the Nation

    70% of U.S. GDP is consumer spending – new tariffs and falling consumer confidence will shrink the economy, not grow it

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, announced on CBS’s Face the Nation that nine major U.S. business organizations have endorsed her new bipartisan legislation that would reassert Congress’ role in overseeing trade and roll back the president’s ability to unilaterally impose tariffs.

    “Organizations who know their bread and butter comes from consumer spending, which is a big part of our economy … are very anxious about a plan,” said Sen. Cantwell.

    “Consumers are saying: ‘How is this helping me in a time of inflation? You are adding to my costs with a tax on my consumer goods.’ And so I think that’s why we are gaining support from these organizations today.”

    These organizations have announced their support for the legislation; statements by most are below:

    1. Consumer Technology Association (CTA)
    2. Retail Industry Leaders Association
    3. American Apparel & Footwear Association
    4. USA Pulses Coalition
    5. Outdoor Industry Association
    6. Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA)
    7. Main Street Alliance
    8. Washington Council on International Trade
    9. Washington Distillers Guild

    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s appearance on Face the Nation can be found HERE, audio HERE and a transcript HERE.

    The bipartisan Trade Review Act currently has a total of 14 co-sponsors – seven Democrats and seven Republicans.

    Statements of Support for Trade Review Act:

    Consumer Technology Association

    “The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) applauds Senators Maria Cantwell and Chuck Grassley for introducing the Trade Review Act of 2025 at this deeply concerning time when tariffs are about to destroy the U.S. economy. This bipartisan legislation is a crucial step toward ensuring that tariffs and trade policies are established transparently and democratically. By requiring the President to explain the reasoning and impacts of new tariffs to Congress within 48 hours and setting a 60-day expiration unless explicitly approved by Congress, this act reaffirms Congress’ essential role in shaping U.S. trade policy.  This is a necessary step by the Congress to reclaim its constitutional authority on trade from the executive branch.  We urge Senators in both parties to sponsor and pass it.” — Ed Brzytwa, Vice President of International Trade, CTA

    Retail Industry Leaders Association

    “Congress is vested by the Constitution with the power to levy taxes and it should play an integral role in deciding what tariffs are imposed to protect American industry and families. Tariffs are taxes and have the potential to hit family budgets hard by pushing up prices on clothes, school supplies, food and other household goods. By one estimate, the tariffs announced yesterday will cost the average American family a staggering $2,100. We applaud Senators Chuck Grassley and Maria Cantwell for introducing the Trade Review Act of 2025, an important step for Congress in upholding its Constitutional role in tax and trade policy. The nation’s leading retailers urge Congress to pass this legislation.” —  Blake Harden, Vice President of International Trade, Retail Industry Leaders Association

    American Apparel & Footwear Association

    “We welcome the introduction of the Trade Review Act of 2025 and urge its immediate consideration and enactment. Durable and predictable trade policy requires greater transparency and robust consultation with stakeholders and Congress, which is not happening now. With 97 percent of the goods?we sell in the U.S.?being imported,?and with 96 percent of the people who wear?clothes and shoes on the planet living outside our borders, successful fashion companies need access to global consumers and suppliers to compete. That’s only possible with active Congressional participation in trade policy. On behalf of the 3.5 million trade dependent American workers in our industry, we thank?Senators Cantwell and Grassley for their leadership on this legislation and for their efforts to restore Congressional primacy on trade and tariff policy, as enshrined in Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution.” –?Steve Lamar, President and CEO, American Apparel & Footwear Association  

    USA Pulses Coalition

    “USA Pulses would like to thank Senator Grassley and Senator Cantwell for introducing legislation to review and approve changes to tariffs on countries that could impact grower sales of pulses (dry peas, lentils, chickpeas and dry beans) and the processors and exporters who provide needed jobs in rural America. We applaud their bipartisan leadership on this important issue.  Free and fair trade is important to everyone in rural America and this legislation would give Congress the opportunity to review the potential impacts of increased tariffs on the rural economy and vote on their approval.”

    Main Street Alliance

    “Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs are a direct hit to working families and small businesses—jacking up prices on everyday goods and costing households $3,000–$4,000 a year. It’s a tax hike on the middle class, just as inflation cools. Worse, it’s a sleight of hand—meant to distract Americans from the massive tax breaks Trump is promising billionaires and big corporations. Tariffs aren’t strategy—they’re sabotage. Congress must pass the Trade Review Act of 2025 and stop this economic shell game before Main Street pays the price.” – Richard Trent, Executive Director, Main Street Alliance 

    Washington Council on International Trade

    “The secret sauce for the U.S. form of government isn’t a secret – it is built on checks and balances to ensure a balanced, thoughtful approach. Trade policy is one area that is out of balance. Congress needs to reassert its role in trade policy, including trade agreements and tariffs. We applaud Senators Cantwell and Grassley’s leadership to restore Congressional oversight on tariffs and urge Congress to quickly approve the Trade Review Act of 2025. It maintains the ability of the President to quickly enact tariffs in response to emergency situations while also guaranteeing Congressional agreement.” – Lori Otto Punke, President, Washington Council on International Trade  

    Washington Distillers Guild 

    “The WA Distillers’ Guild supports the bipartisan bill introduced by Senators Cantwell and Grassley to provide oversight, structure and accountability to the tariff process.  Our Main Street, family owned small businesses need certainty in everyday operations and adding rules based oversight from Congress will help to ensure that the tariffs enacted help American manufacturers.” — Mhairi Voelsgen, President, Washington Distillers Guild

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese travelers invigorate global tourism with visa-free, convenient trips

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

    TAIYUAN, April 5 — China’s Tomb-Sweeping Day, traditionally a time for remembering the deceased, is also a perfect occasion for spring outings and sightseeing. While the country has a three-day holiday that started on Friday, Chinese tourists are leveraging visa-free policies, cost-effective flights and tech-driven tools to embark on “instant getaways” abroad, injecting new vitality into global tourism.

    Wang Liuqing, a white-collar worker from Taiyuan, capital of north China’s Shanxi Province, headed to Jeju Island in the Republic of Korea (ROK) for the holiday.

    “A visa-free destination is a priority,” said Wang, adding that the island’s jelly-like sea and cherry blossoms have offered fantastic opportunities for photography. On the social platform Rednote, numerous Chinese tourists have shared their travel tips for Jeju Island, with over 1 million related posts.

    The latest booking data from the Chinese travel platform Tuniu shows the number of outbound travelers during this year’s holiday is expected to reach a three-year high.

    As of 2025, over 80 countries and regions offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to Chinese citizens.

    Wang Liyang, the operation manager of Fliggy, a leading online travel agency, said that individual travel has become the main way for Chinese tourists to travel abroad. Consumers are keen on designing their own itineraries based on online travel guides and booking unique local attractions and activities online, such as diving, sea fishing, hot spring soaking and boat tours.

    New digital tools are optimizing travel routes for Chinese tourists. Several domestic travel apps have introduced AI solutions, offering customized international travel guides, personalized itineraries and real-time ticket booking — making short trips more convenient than ever.

    Low-cost air tickets and efficient customs clearance have also contributed to the popularity of international travel. Online ticketing platforms show that direct flights from Beijing to cities like Hanoi and Bangkok, and from Shanghai to cities like Seoul and Osaka, all cost less than 1,000 yuan (about 140 U.S. dollars).

    “A budget-friendly trip sparks more passion for travel,” said Wang with Fliggy.

    According to Skift, a U.S. travel industry news site, China’s outbound tourism market is projected to surge to 200 million trips by 2028.

    Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy, said that more Chinese tourists are now willing to pay for a better lifestyle — opting for good hotels, fine dining, and high-quality cultural performances during trips.

    These minor but exquisite, beautiful and heartwarming experiences with deep immersion will bring warmth and vitality to international destinations, said Dai.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The Coalition has announced an even more radical plan to cut international students than Labor. Here’s how it would work

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Norton, Professor of Higher Education Policy, Monash University

    Last year, the Coalition made the surprise decision to oppose Labor’s plans for new international student caps.

    On Sunday, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton proposed an even more radical policy of his own to limit the number of international students in Australia.

    He announced a combination of tighter enrolment limits, increased visa application fees and changes to temporary graduate visas, which allow some former students to remain in Australia to work.

    This is aimed at either deterring potential students from applying or stopping them from going to their preferred university.

    What’s the Coalition’s policy?

    The Coalition and Labor similarly argue high numbers of international students are putting pressure on housing markets.

    But the opposition is also concerned there are too many international students in some courses. They say some courses can have international enrolments of up to 80%.

    To address both problems, the Coalition proposes a maximum international student enrolment share at public universities (which is almost all universities in Australia). This would be around 25% of all commencing (or new) enrolments. Other education providers, such as private colleges and TAFEs, would face separate caps.

    The Coalition estimates this would result in 30,000 fewer new international students per year than Labor’s policy.

    What is happening under Labor?

    Last year, Labor wanted to give the education minister wide powers to cap international student enrolments by education provider, campus and course.

    Apart from some exempt categories (such as postgraduate research students), vocational and higher education providers would have been allocated 270,000 commencing enrolments between them for 2025. This is compared to 323,000 commencing enrolments in 2023.

    But the bill was opposed by the Greens and the Coalition. So Labor had to move to plan B.

    Using its migration powers, in December 2024, the government issued a ministerial direction on how the Department of Home Affairs should process applications for student visas. This is arguably a de facto cap.

    Immigration officials have been instructed to prioritise student visa applications for all institutions until they near the individual caps that were blocked by the Senate last year.

    Once visa applications are at 80% of each provider’s cap, subsequent applications go into a slower visa processing stream.



    Read more:
    International student numbers in Australia will be controlled by a new informal cap. Here’s how it will work

    Signs applications are already down

    Prospective international students cannot apply for a visa unless an education provider gives them a “confirmation of enrolment”.

    We are seeing signs the ministerial direction is leading to fewer “confirmations of enrolment” and resulting applications.

    My analysis below shows student visa applications for January and February 2025 are well down on equivalent months in 2024, 2023 and 2019 (pre-Covid).

    In late 2024, demand was below the boom times of 2023 and early 2024, but still above 2019.

    What does the Coalition’s plan mean for unis?

    Labor’s policy for university caps uses a formula based on past international student enrolments. The Coalition’s caps would be a percentage of total new enrolments. They expect this to be around 25%, but will set the precise number after consultation and receiving the most recent data.

    Coalition education spokesperson Sarah Henderson has expressed concerns high concentrations of international students have “not been good for our country or for the education outcomes of Australian students”.

    Based on 2023 enrolment data – the latest that also includes domestic students – 35% of new university students in Australia were from overseas. But several universities had international student shares above 50%.

    On the Coalition’s estimates, their policy would see no more than 115,000 new international students in public universities each year, down from 139,000 under Labor’s approach.

    The Coalition acknowledges this will particularly affect the highly ranked Group of Eight universities, including The University of Melbourne and The University of Sydney. Dutton argues these universities have admitted “excessive numbers” of international students.

    Coalition caps for private providers

    One reason the Coalition gave for not supporting Labor’s legislation last year was the disproportionate effect on private education providers, which include both vocational and higher education colleges.

    Under the Coalition’s plan, private providers will still have caps, but they will be different than those for universities. Exactly how this will work is unclear. Their combined caps will be “at most 125,000”, according to the Coalition. Under Labor’s policy, their combined cap is a little higher, at about 132,000.

    A complicating factor here is the government’s existing migration policies have smashed demand for vocational education – as my analysis shows.

    This means many vocational education providers may not be able to fully use the places allocated under Labor’s indicative cap. These shortfalls may create space to increase caps for other private education providers.

    Visa application fees

    Last year, in a bid to cut international student numbers, Labor more than doubled the student visa application fee from A$710 to $1,600. They subsequently reversed this for Pacific Islander applicants.

    Under the Coalition, the visa application fee would more than triple to $5,000 for applicants to Group of Eight universities. For students seeking entry to other providers, the fee would be $2,500.

    Temporary graduate visas

    The Coalition also promises a “rapid review” of the temporary graduate visa program. This would be to prevent its “misuse” as a way to gain access to the Australian labour market and permanent migration.

    Labor has already reduced the number of years former students can stay on temporary graduate visas, reduced the age limit to be granted a visa from 50 to 35 years, and increased the minimum English requirements.

    Applications for temporary graduate visas are down on past levels.

    While Labor’s changes made some potential visa applicants ineligible, recent applications could be the calm before the storm. Large numbers of 2023 and 2024 international students will complete their courses in the coming years, with many of them eligible for temporary graduate visas under current policies.

    International education will take a hit regardless

    The Coalition’s international student election policy is less of a surprise than its refusal to back Labor’s caps last year. They have foreshadowed tough policies many times in recent months.

    But the proposed increased visa application fees and enrolment caps would be painful for both students and education providers.

    Universities have repeatedly argued international students are not major causes of the housing crisis. They have also argued international education is a valuable export and it is being undermined by policy changes out of Canberra. But this has had no impact on the stance of either Labor or the Coalition.

    So, the number of international students in Australia will fall regardless of the federal election result. The decline is set to be greater under a Coalition government. But regardless of the election result, the days of unlimited international student numbers are over.

    The Conversation

    Andrew Norton works for Monash University, which is a member of the Group of Eight and would be significantly affected by the policies discussed in this article.

    – ref. The Coalition has announced an even more radical plan to cut international students than Labor. Here’s how it would work – https://theconversation.com/the-coalition-has-announced-an-even-more-radical-plan-to-cut-international-students-than-labor-heres-how-it-would-work-253919

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MICE tourism gains momentum

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Ballroom inspections and mahjong sessions may not be what automatically springs to mind when you consider Hong Kong’s appeal to visitors. Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions tourism – MICE tourism, for short – is not about being conventional, however.

    Recently, nine representatives from the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers, hailing from Germany, Canada, Mexico and elsewhere, embarked on a five-day MICE tourism study mission in Hong Kong, at the invitation of the Tourism Board.

    Their first stop was a Wan Chai hotel that opened late last year. The delegation inspected its banquet halls, suites and facilities, and enjoyed an unexpected highlight – an impromptu mahjong session in the games room that gave them a taste of one of the most popular Chinese pastimes.

    The group then proceeded to the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) where they were shown around several exhibition venues and meeting rooms, learning about their layout and design, as well as the centre’s transport connectivity, and took the opportunity to gaze out over Victoria Harbour.

    Multiple facets
    For MICE visitors – whether squeezing in sightseeing activities around conferences or enjoying company incentive trips – riding the 130-year-old Peak Tram remains an essential Hong Kong experience, of course.

    Having ascended Victoria Peak by tram, the delegation embarked on a nostalgic journey through 1970s–80s Hong Kong at the Peak Tower museum, before marvelling at magnificent panoramic views of the city’s famous skyline and Victoria Harbour from the Sky Terrace.

    The group then descended to Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan, where they performed the ritual of touching the holy deer statue with gold foil to seek blessings. All in all, they were able to immerse themselves fully in Hong Kong’s commercial, cultural and religious facets in a single day.

    The tour participants represented diverse clients across sectors ranging from government to technology and pharmaceuticals, and are responsible for planning events across Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. They said their experiences in Hong Kong would inform future decisions about staging professional conferences and summits in the city.

    Lasting impressions
    Among the delegation was Jocelyne Mulli, managing director of a German organiser of professional conferences. Her firm has been using Hong Kong as its springboard into the Asia-Pacific region since 2012.

    Though a frequent visitor to Hong Kong and to the HKCEC, she said her latest trip had opened her eyes to ongoing upgrades and more flexible service offerings in the city. In particular, she praised Hong Kong’s fusion of heritage and modernity, applauding its sustained achievements in MICE tourism development over the years.

    “You are a hub, you are a base, and you are in the best place to welcome international delegates,” she said. “It is not everywhere that you have ballrooms, venue spaces of such size. You have a multilingual society and you have these historical aspects.”

    For his part, Alejandro Ramirez Tabche, the CEO of a Mexican event planning company, said that seeing specific venues for himself had made him realise Hong Kong is the perfect MICE destination. Describing the city as “gorgeous”, he said he would recommend it to his peers as a location for holding events without hesitation.

    “Hong Kong is always a top destination and people experience real fun and happiness,” he enthused. “And also, you have luxurious hotels, good food and good attractions. The people are so kind and they are very eager to help anytime.”

    While in Hong Kong, the group also explored the Old Town Central neighbourhood’s blend of modern and historic elements, visited the giant panda twins at Ocean Park, and toured the newly opened Kai Tak Sports Park, gaining a full appreciation of the city’s diverse offerings.

    Robust revival
    MICE tourism has emerged as a key driver of high-value travel to Hong Kong, with the city welcoming over 1.42 million overnight MICE visitors in 2024, a year-on-year increase of about 10%. Their average spending per capita outperformed overall overnight visitor expenditure by about 40% and catalysed growth across sectors including convention services, retail, dining and entertainment.

    The Tourism Board is adopting a multipronged approach to developing MICE tourism, sparing no effort to secure major events for Hong Kong, while also inviting global conference organisers to experience the city’s MICE facilities and tourism assets first-hand.

    Tourism Board Director & Business Development Team Lead of MICE Phoebe Shing outlined that the organisation has been successful in bidding for and facilitating 56 large-scale MICE events in Hong Kong this year, including 16 which are debuting in the city. The events span sectors ranging from innovation and technology to fintech, medical science and aviation.

    “In June, Hong Kong will host the International Society for Stem Cell Research 2025 annual meeting for the first time,” she said. “For the aviation sector, we will welcome Routes World 2025 in September, and also Airspace Asia Pacific 2025 in December.”

    These events are projected to attract approximately 170,000 MICE visitors from the Mainland and overseas, with total participation reaching 260,000.

    Ms Shing added that with MICE tourism’s robust recovery, coupled with the ongoing restoration of international flight capacity, further growth in MICE visitors is expected.

    “The Hong Kong Tourism Board will continue to promote MICE tourism, striving to bring more MICE events to Hong Kong. We will also solidify Hong Kong as the world’s meeting place in order to attract more high-yield visitors to our city.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fake reviews and sneaky hidden fees banned once and for all

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Fake reviews and sneaky hidden fees banned once and for all

    Outrageous fake reviews and sneaky hidden fees are now banned once and for all in a major win for consumers right across the UK.

    • Fake reviews and hidden fees that cost consumers £2.2bn every year now banned 
    • CMA takes on major new powers to directly enforce new consumer laws 
    • Changes will protect consumers and create a more level playing field for businesses, helping to deliver economic stability as part of the Plan for Change 

    Outrageous fake reviews and sneaky hidden fees are now banned once and for all in a major win for consumers right across the UK. These laws will help deliver economic stability as part of the Plan for Change. 

    The new measures coming into force today will give the public control over their cash and save them money in the long run.

    All mandatory fees, such as admin fees or ticket booking fees, must now be included in the headline price and can’t be deceptively dripped in throughout the checkout process, to dupe customers into paying more than they originally bargained for.  

    The ban aims to bring to an end the shock that online shoppers get when they reach the end of their shopping experience only to find a raft of extra fees lumped on top. 

    So, for shoppers buying train tickets – they won’t be stung by a hidden booking fee at the end of the checkout. 

    When buying a takeaway, the delivery and admin fees must be clear at the start of the process.

    The same will apply to all online shopping experiences from concert tickets to trips to the cinema. 

    Every year a whopping £2.2 billion is spent by consumers on unavoidable hidden fees, which is why these new rules are coming into force.  

    Not only will it create greater transparency, but it will make it far easier for consumers to confidently compare products and services to make sure they are getting the best bang for their buck.  

    Justin Madders, Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets, said:  

    From today consumers can confidently make purchases knowing they are protected against fake reviews and dripped pricing.  

    These changes will give consumers more power and control over their hard-earned cash, as well as help to establish a level playing field by deterring bad actors that undercut compliant businesses, helping to deliver economic stability as part of our Plan for Change. 

    Outlandish fake reviews will also be banned today – so customers know what they are buying when they shop online.

    The legislation will prevent punters turning up to a restaurant with 5-star reviews only to be served 1-star quality food. Or ordering a product online from a top-rated seller only to find it never turns up, or that when it does, it doesn’t look anything like it did in the picture, despite what previous buyers said. 

    Reviews were found to be used by 90% of consumers and contributed to the £217 billion spent in online retail markets in 2023, underscoring the importance of these new consumer protection laws. 

    New laws will also help prevent well-intentioned and compliant businesses from being under-cut by those seeking to catch out consumers with stealthy additional prices and fake reviews.  

    Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, said:

    We will use these new provisions to safeguard people from harmful and unfair treatment, and to foster the level-playing field for the vast majority of businesses who want to do the right thing for their customers. We will be tackling the more egregious practices first and working hard to support businesses with compliance, conscious that – especially for small businesses – the burden of following the rules must be proportionate.

    This new consumer protection regime will be implemented by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in a way that is as simple as possible for smaller businesses to comply with.

    This government is committed to taking action to reduce unnecessary burdens on business, meaning that should any new rules be required, these will be as clear as possible and only used where necessary and proportionate.

    Notes to editors 

    • Legislation only bans unavoidable hidden fees. Optional fees, such as airline seats and luggage upgrades for flights, are not included. 
    • Website hosts are accountable for the reviews on their page. Businesses and online platforms will be legally required to take steps to prevent and remove the publication of fake reviews that are published on their websites. This could include, for example, having adequate detection and removal procedures in place to prevent fake reviews being published.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on softwood lumber

    Premier David Eby has released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Commerce announcement that it plans to raise softwood duties against Canadian producers to 34.45%:

    “The U.S. Department of Commerce announced yesterday that they are going to more than double countervailing duties imposed on Canadian softwood lumber, driving up housing costs for Americans who voted for a President who promised to lower costs.

    “This is an attack on forest workers and British Columbians. I know that during hard times it is often the workers who pay the price. To every forestry worker in British Columbia hearing the news of this impending increase to softwood lumber duties, know this: We have got your back and your government will fight for you.

    “In Canada, the continued unjustified softwood lumber duties, combined with additional U.S. tariffs and other trade actions, have united Canadians. We have friends and family in the United States who need Canadian lumber to build or rebuild their homes, and both Canadians and Americans need an end to this trade dispute.

    “We will, as always, work with the other provinces and territories, the forest sector and the federal government to fight this most recent decision through all avenues available to us, at the first possible opportunity.

    “I am meeting with the Prime Minister on Monday, April 7, 2025, and I plan on raising this issue with him directly. B.C. workers and their families depend on the jobs that these tariffs are targeting, and we hope to see the same Team Canada approach to protecting them, just like with the automotive and steel industry jobs in Ontario and Quebec.

    “We will continue to work with business, labour and First Nations leaders to seek approaches to defend the hard-working forestry workers of B.C., their families and the industry as a whole from the increasingly hostile actions of our largest trading partner.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Highlights SBA Approval of I-80 Disaster Declaration and Upcoming Business Recovery Center

    Source: US Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    (April 5, 2025) Bernardsville, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) issued the following statement after the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) approved New Jersey’s disaster declaration request, making Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to small businesses impacted by the I-80 sinkhole-related closures. The Congressman also highlights the upcoming opening of the SBA’s Business Recovery Center in Wharton, NJ, which will provide direct support to affected businesses. 

    “The SBA’s rapid approval of Economic Injury Disaster Loans for small businesses economically impacted by the I-80 closure will provide meaningful relief for businesses in Morris County, as well as the adjacent counties,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “Securing these federal resources took swift, coordinated action across federal, state, and local governments. I also want to call attention to the SBA’s Business Recovery Center opening in Wharton on April 8, which will offer real-time and on-the-ground support for local businesses.”

    “President Trump and Administrator Loeffler have made getting our small businesses back up and running after a disaster the SBA’s highest priority. SBA personnel are on the ground in New Jersey and opening our Business Recovery Center in Wharton on April 8. We are ready to assist those businesses and organizations economically impacted by the I-80 sinkholes,” said SBA Atlantic Regional Administrator Matt Coleman, who oversees the federal agency’s operations in New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico & the U.S. Virgin Islands.

    “SBA is strongly committed to providing assistance to not just those small businesses & private non-profit organizations economically impacted by the sinkholes along I-80 in Morris County, but to those that have been impacted in adjacent counties of Essex, Hunterdon, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren too,” Coleman added.

    Background:

    On March 28th, Congressman Kean sent a letter to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy urging him to submit an official disaster declaration request to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in response to the I-80 sinkhole-related road closures. 

    After subsequent submission, the SBA granted this request within one day, unlocking federal assistance opportunities for qualifying small businesses that have suffered substantial economic loss during the I-80 closure. Small businesses in Morris County, as well as in adjacent counties of Essex, Hunterdon, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren can apply HERE for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan.

    From April 8 through April 22, SBA will operate a Business Recovery Center at the Wharton Municipal Building to assist businesses impacted by the I-80 sinkholes. The center will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm, and on Saturdays from 10:00am to 2:00pm. For additional information on disaster assistance, please contact the SBA Customer Service Center Line at (800) 659-2955.

     ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches No KYC, 100x Leverage, $50 Welcome Bonus, and Double Deposit – Start Trading Today!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, April 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin continues to trade below $85,000 and analysts predict that the crypto market will remain volatile, holding spot positions may not generate short-term profits. Recent economic shifts, including policy announcements such as President Trump’s tariff decisions, have brought some stabilization, but the volatility remains. For investors seeking to maximize returns in these uncertain times, BexBack Exchange offers a powerful solution. With 100x leverage, a 100% deposit bonus, and a $50 welcome bonus for new users, BexBack empowers traders to seize market opportunities. And with no KYC requirements, it provides a seamless and efficient way to trade.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $60,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $63,000, your profit will be (63,000 – 60,000) * 100 BTC / 60,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and more than 50 other major altcoins. Headquartered in Singapore, with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina, BexBack holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by over 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, and offers no deposit fees, along with exceptional customer service, including 24/7 support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

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    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    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!

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    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. 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. 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. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. 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.

    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 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/fa9c9661-4f4c-4058-8a5c-b80f23c6a3ab

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2fa88f18-0399-440b-843f-cfb31754755d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/90f64f56-584d-4b70-bcfd-3bf00d5bc386

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7fd8eb43-e490-4c56-a15b-a29400d96de5

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Votes Against Republican Budget Proposal to Cut Medicaid to Pay for Tax Cuts for Billionaires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    Senate Republicans Voted Down A Rosen Amendment To Cut Taxes For Middle Class and Small Businesses While Making Ultra-Wealthy Pay Their Fair Share

    Watch Senator Rosen’s Remarks on Her Amendment HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the following statement after voting against Republicans’ extreme budget resolution that targeted critical programs Nevadans rely on – like Medicaid, food assistance, and more – to pay for more tax giveaways for the ultra-wealthy. Senator Rosen filed an amendment to cut taxes for the middle class and small businesses while making the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share, but Senate Republicans opposed it. She also voted to include provisions in this resolution to block tax cuts for billionaires, protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, and combat President Trump’s cost-raising tariffs, but Senate Republicans blocked them.
    “Senate Republicans just passed yet another budget resolution that calls for deep cuts to vital programs like Medicaid and food assistance, all to pay for more tax breaks for the wealthiest individuals,” said Senator Rosen. “I led the charge on a measure to cut taxes for the middle class while making the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share, but Senate Republicans voted it down. They did all of this in the dead of night because they know their actions are extremely unpopular and wanted to hide them from the American people. I’ll keep fighting for hardworking Nevadans and against hyper-partisan legislation that harms the programs they rely on most.”
    Senator Rosen has been a strong critic of Republicans’ budget plans that would drastically increase our national deficit and give tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy by cutting programs Nevadans rely on. This week, she took to the Senate floor to call out Congressional Republicans for this extreme budget plan. Senator Rosen also joined her Senate colleagues in urging President Donald Trump to reject Congressional Republicans’ legislative plans to increase the cost of living for Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons condemns Trump’s tariffs, urges colleagues to end tariffs on Canada in speech before Senate vote

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) spoke on the U.S. Senate floor tonight, where he lambasted the new global tariffs imposed by President Trump this afternoon and called on his colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support a resolution that would end the tariffs President Trump has imposed on Canada. The resolution passed, 51-48. Senator Coons is a cosponsor of the resolution.

    “I rise to bring the attention of this body to a broken promise by our president. Our president promised in the campaign, and recently in an address to all of us here in Congress, to make America affordable again,” Senator Coons said. “Today, President Trump has announced he is going to impose tariffs on virtually every trading partner we have, and I rise in support of a piece of legislation we’re about to vote on here in the Senate that gives us a chance to do something.”

    Tonight, the Senate voted on a resolution by U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) to revoke the “emergency” President Trump earlier this year declared that has allowed him to unilaterally implement tariffs on Canada. Several decades ago, Congress passed a law giving the president the power to declare an emergency, assuming that presidents would only use that authority during a time of war or other national security crisis. President Trump has abused that power to unilaterally impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and other trading partners.

    “Canadians have served alongside us in virtually every war we’ve ever fought. They are a NATO ally and partner, and for my small but mighty State of Delaware, our major export destination and the nation from which we import the most,” said Senator Coons. “And yet…President Trump is moving ahead with slapping tariffs on Canada.”

    Earlier today, on what President Trump declared ‘Liberation Day,’ President Trump imposed sweeping new tariffs on nearly everything imported into the United States, as well as significantly higher tariffs on nearly every other country, from Taiwan to Israel to the European Union. Financial markets immediately plummeted upon the news. Economists and business organizations have called them “monstrously destructive” and “catastrophic for American families.”

    “This is not Liberation Day, but Tax Day – a new national sales tax that will harm the imports we buy from virtually every country, and because of the countervailing tariffs, harm our exports,” Senator Coons said.

    Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Small Business Committee. In February, he introduced the STABLE Trade Policy Act with Senator Kaine, which would institute a requirement of congressional approval before a president could impose new tariffs on U.S. allies and free trade agreement partners such as Canada.

    A video and transcript of Senator Coons’ remarks are available below.

    WATCH HERE.

    SENATOR COONS: Mr. President, I rise to bring the attention of this body to a broken promise by our president.

    Our president promised in the campaign, and recently in an address to all of us here in Congress, to make America affordable again. To deal with the high prices – groceries, of fruits and vegetables, of housing, of housing supplies, of energy – to deal with high prices. Millions of Americans who voted for President Trump said they did so out of frustration about high prices. Well today, President Trump has announced he is going to impose tariffs on virtually every trading partner we have, and I rise in support of a piece of legislation we’re about to vote on here in the Senate that gives us a chance to do something.

    So to my colleagues, if you’ve heard as I have from your constituents, calling with concern and alarm about how much prices have not gone down, but have gone up, I recommend you think about one country: one of our most trusted and loyal allies, some of the nicest people on the planet.

    Who doesn’t like Canadians? Canadians have served alongside us in virtually every war we’ve ever fought. They are a NATO ally and partner, and for my small but mighty State of Delaware, our major export destination and the nation from which we import the most. And yet, because of an emergency at our border – which I think is wholly unjustified by the data of how little fentanyl actually comes into our country across the northern border – President Trump is moving ahead with slapping tariffs on Canada.

    Tonight you have a chance, I say to my colleagues, to vote to undo the declaration of an “emergency” on our northern border. You can vote to undo the harm to businesses, to small families, to retirement accounts. Don’t look at your 401(k) if you want to know tomorrow the consequences of indiscriminately slapping tariffs on every one of our major trading partners. This is not Liberation Day, but Tax Day – a new national sales tax that will harm the imports we buy from virtually every country, and because of the countervailing tariffs, harm our exports.

    A tariff is a tax. Tonight we will take a vote, and I hope some of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle will join with Senator Kaine and many of us in recognizing it is ludicrous to use the special emergency powers that Congress gave to the president assuming he would only do so in a case of war or active open hostility, not in the case of one of our trusted and loyal partners and allies, the great and kind people of Canada.

    In recent meetings with Canadian leaders, they’ve said ‘Don’t make us do it. Don’t make us impose tariffs on you.’ But tonight, the Trump administration has imposed tariffs on dozens and dozens of our trading partners. To my friends and colleagues, let’s vote to undo this phony crisis and vote to undo the tariffs on US-Canada trade. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Golden slams GOP budget priorities as fiscally irresponsible plan to juice elites at expense of working families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

    Senate plan features exploding deficits, health care cuts, giveaways to the wealthy

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) released the following statement regarding the House and Senate GOP’s budget plans, following a vote Thursday to advance a harmful budget resolution through the Senate: 

    “Americans should be furious that the Senate GOP has picked up where their House counterparts left off, pushing a budget designed to slash taxes for the wealthy and corporations, paid for by cutting Americans’ health care and blowing up the deficit. Rather than pushing back against the many flaws in the House GOP budget resolution, Senate leaders are seeking simply to hide the cost of this plan from the American people with new budgeting gimmicks that, if successful, will set a dangerous precedent for future Congresses to ratchet up spending again and again without ever paying for it.

    “We can do so much better than this naked attempt to further tilt the system against the many in favor of the few at the top. If we ask the wealthy and big corporations to pay their fair share, we could cut taxes for the middle class and reduce the deficit without harmful cuts to health care. The GOP’s majority is slim, and I know that some of my colleagues on that side of the aisle oppose this irresponsible, harmful approach to government. I am ready to work with them, and anyone else, to pass a responsible budget that puts middle class families first.” 

    The House-passed budget resolution called for $4.8 trillion in deficit increases. Nearly all of that spending would fund extension of the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts, which disproportionately benefited the wealthiest households and corporations. The House plan offsets the cost with just $2 trillion in spending cuts, for a total $3.4 trillion increase to the national debt, including estimated interest payments. 

    The Senate plan attempts to hide the cost of extending the Trump Tax Cuts by using an accounting trick known as the “current policy baseline.” (“It’s like taking an expensive week-long vacation and then assuming you can spend an extra $1,000 per day forever since you are no longer staying at the Plaza,” said Marc Goldwein, senior vice president and senior policy director for the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, in an interview with the New York Times.) 

    An honest accounting of the Senate’s budget resolution shows that it includes $5.8 trillion in new borrowing — twice as much as the House plan and three times as much as the American Rescue Plan — while adding as much as $6.9 trillion to the national debt, including estimated interest payments. 

    The Senate resolution also retains language from the House bill instructing the House Energy and Commerce Committee to cut $880 billion in spending, a sum impossible to achieve without substantial cuts to Medicaid. Medicaid provides health coverage to 236,000 people in Maine’s 2nd Congressional District — more than one-third of the population — according to KFF.

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    MIL OSI USA News –