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Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Post Budget Webinar on “Agriculture and Rural Prosperity” focused on the Framework for Harnessing Fisheries Resources in Exclusive Economic Zone & High Seas

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Post Budget Webinar on “Agriculture and Rural Prosperity”  focused on the Framework for Harnessing Fisheries Resources in Exclusive Economic Zone  & High Seas

    Deliberations on Market Linkages, Ease of Doing Business, Sustainability Aim to Boost Farmers Income

    Posted On: 02 MAR 2025 3:18PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D) and Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajeev Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, participated virtually in a  daylong Post-Budget Webinar on “Agriculture and Rural Prosperity” on 1st March 2025. The webinar was organised  by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and also saw participation  of Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Union Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and Shri George Kurian, Union Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Minority Affairs.

      

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the webinar, delivered the keynote address in the event. The webinar engaged stakeholders in focused discussions, strategizing the effective implementation of 2025 Budget announcements. The webinar addressed key areas of agricultural growth and rural prosperity, ensuring a collaborative approach towards realizing the budget’s vision. Furthermore, the event aligned key stakeholders, including private sector experts, industry representatives, and subject matter specialists and key stakeholders, including representatives from fishermen associations, fisheries cooperatives, industry & private sector experts from mainland, Andaman Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands through structured, sub-theme-focused discussions. The webinar also aimed at facilitating dialogue, gathering insights, and ensuring timely and coordinated actions towards achieving the set goals.

    The post budget webinar on “Agriculture  and Rural Prosperity” featured parallel discussions on various sub-themes, each anchored by designated Secretaries. Key topics included Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, Enhancing Credit through KCC, Building Rural Prosperity and Resilience, Atmanirbharata in Pulses, Comprehensive Programme for Vegetables & Fruits, National Mission on High Yielding Seeds, Mission for Cotton Productivity, India Post as a Catalyst for the Rural Economy, Framework for Harnessing Fisheries Resources in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) & High Seas, and Support to National Cooperative Development Corporation.

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in his address at the post-budget webinar on agriculture and rural prosperity, highlighted the transformative impact of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) since 2019, which has strengthened fisheries infrastructure, doubled production, and boosted exports in the sector. He emphasized the government’s commitment to sustainable fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the High Seas through a strategic action plan. Urging swift implementation, he called on stakeholders to explore new ideas for Ease of Doing Business and enhance sectoral growth.

    Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, highlighted India’s vast marine resources within its 2.2 million sq. km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The initiatives undertaken by ICAR in fisheries research were also briefly highlighted, emphasizing their role in advancing sustainable development and strengthening the sector. Emphasizing the need for regional development, the significance of promoting fisheries clusters as a key strategy for boosting the sector was underscored. He affirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Lakshadweep and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands into major fisheries hubs by leveraging their untapped marine potential. He stated that initiatives undertaken by the government aims to enhance local value chains, improve infrastructure, and create sustainable economic opportunities for coastal communities while ensuring environmental conservation and long-term growth in the fisheries sector.

    Shri George Kurian, in his address, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for establishing the Fisheries Department in 2019. He said that fisheries sector aims to double the income of fish farmers for which the government has provided additional financial support in the budget to boost exports. He said that the government is also promoting cluster zones for fisheries development in Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep. To develop these regions, it will be necessary to provide training to the local people and seek assistance from the governments of these island groups.

    Breakout Session on “Framework for Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Resources in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India and the High Seas with a special focus on Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep”, was chaired by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries.  The session discussed policy interventions, international commitments, and strategies for responsible fisheries management to drive seafood exports, enhance food security, and create employment opportunities while ensuring long-term sustainability. It also deliberated upon the implementation of the Budget Announcement, focusing on  sustainable harnessing of fisheries from India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the High Seas, along with the development of deep-sea fisheries in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep to unlock their vast marine potential.

    This session witnessed participation of key industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders who deliberated on crucial aspects of deep-sea fishing, market linkages, value addition, and sustainability. Various topics like Deep Sea Fishing: Vessel Designing, Procurement & Smart Harbor Development, Credit Facility for Fisheries Cooperatives to Procure and Operate Deep Sea Fishing Vessels, Concept of Mother and Child Vessels Strategy for Deep Sea Fishing, Sustainable Offshore Technologies for Harnessing of Marine Resources, Value Chain Enhancement: Processing, Packaging & Export etc. were deliberated upon during the session.

    The discussions  during the webinar have laid a strong foundation for the structured and sustainable harnessing of India’s marine fisheries resources with a clear focus on balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. The proposed framework will enable deep-sea fisheries development, strengthen regulatory mechanisms, and enhance infrastructure and market access. Also the strategic emphasis on Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep will unlock their vast marine potential while ensuring long-term sustainability. The discussions also focused on seamless collaboration among stakeholders, adherence to international commitments, and effective policy implementation to help transform  India’s marine fisheries sector into a global leader in sustainable and responsible fishing.

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    Aditi Agrawal

    (Release ID: 2107533) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fostering Growth and Inclusivity

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Fostering Growth and Inclusivity

    The Strategic Impact of GeM on India’s Economy

    Posted On: 02 MAR 2025 1:53PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    Public procurement plays a crucial role in a nation’s economic growth, directly impacting the lives of its citizens. When governments purchase goods and services efficiently and transparently, it not only ensures the effective use of public funds but also stimulates economic opportunities for businesses of all sizes. This, in turn, drives employment, promotes innovation, and contributes to overall societal development. In India, the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has emerged as a game-changer in public procurement, creating an open and inclusive platform that benefits not just government buyers but also local entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses.

     

    In alignment with the societal development of the nation, GeM has enabled startups to fulfil orders worth ₹ 35,950 Crore. Women entrepreneurs comprise 8% of the total seller base on GeM, with cumulative 1,77,786 Udyam-verified women micro, and small enterprises (MSE) registered on the GeM portal, having fulfilled a cumulative order value of ₹46,615 Crore.

    What is GeM?

    Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is an online platform for public procurement in India which was envisaged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The initiative was launched on August 09, 2016 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry with the objective to create an open and transparent procurement platform for government buyers.

     

    Core Principles of GeM

     

    GeM is characterized by three core elements:

    Openness: GeM shall be an open marketplace wherein it promotes access to information and transparency. Relevant information on sellers, goods, and services shall be easy to find and readily available for users. GeM shall provide databased insights to help users in decision-making and ascertaining price reasonability.

    Fairness: One of the platform’s key objectives is to allow sellers, big and small, to gain direct access to Government buyers. In doing so, all sellers shall be treated fairly and GeM shall not offer promotional treatment to one seller over the other. GeM shall support the intentions behind the preferential market access policies and ensure that all sellers are provided with a level playing field. This will ensure the health and competitiveness of the marketplace.

     

     

    Inclusiveness: GeM shall promote inclusiveness, which means that all Government buyers and sellers shall be accepted on the platform. GeM shall aspire to create a robust seller base and all sellers interested in conducting business with the Government shall be welcomed on the platform. For buyers and sellers that do not have the know-how of using GeM, additional assistance in the form of focused training, onboarding sessions and continued feedback and support shall be provided.

     

    Key Features of GeM

     

    SWAYATT: Promoting Ease of Doing Business

     

    SWAYATT is portal’s commitment to enhance ease of doing business and establish direct market linkages to annual public procurement for startups, women entrepreneurs, Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs), Self Help Groups (SHGs) and youth, especially those from backward sections of the society. Since inception, the initiative is focused at facilitating the training and onboarding of last-mile sellers, developing women entrepreneurship and encouraging participation and small-scale businesses in government procurement.

     

     

    Startup Runway 2.0 is an opportunity for Startups to showcase their innovative products and services to Government buyers and engage in public procurement. GeM has created a dedicated marketplace category for all Startups to list their products and services, irrespective of their DPIIT-certification. The platform offers Startups all the marketplace functionalities that are available to regular sellers and the objective is to spur “Make In India” procurement from India Startups.

     

     

    “Womaniya” initiative seeks to showcase products made by women entrepreneurs and women self-help groups [WSHGs], and spur Women entrepreneurship by aligning them with opportunities to sell their products to various Government ministries, departments and institutions. GeM has specially categorized products such as handicrafts and handloom, accessories, jute and coir products, bamboo products, organic foods, spices, home décor and office furnishings for ease-in-procurement. Womaniya aligns with Government’s initiative of reserving 3 percent in public procurement from women MSME entrepreneurs and this offers immense potential for procurement.

     

     

    GeM is collaborating with various stakeholders from the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises [MSME] ecosystem with special focus on entrepreneurs from the Scheduled Caste/ Schedule Tribes [SC/ ST]. The partnership is based on the objective of achieving the mandatory procurement goal of 25 percent from MSMEs and a sub target procurement of 4 percent goods and services from MSME entrepreneurs within SC/ ST communities, by all government departments and public sector enterprises [PSE]. This initiative seeks to encourage active participation of MSE sector in public procurement.

    The Saras Collection: Celebrating Handcrafted Excellence

    The SARAS Collection is a pristine handcrafted collection of handicrafts, handloom textiles, office décor, furnishings, accessories, event souvenirs, personal hygiene and care products from top of the line SHGs in India.

    GeM Statistics: A Snapshot of Growth and Impact

     

    The latest statistics reveal significant activity in the marketplace, showcasing a robust ecosystem with 162,985 primary buyers, 228,754 secondary buyers, and a diverse range of 11,006 product categories and 332 service categories. In the last financial year, the order volume reached 62,86,543, with an order value of ₹4,03,305 Crore. Continuing its momentum, the current financial year has already recorded 61,23,691 orders worth ₹4,52,594 Crore. Notably, 37.87% of the total order value is attributed to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), underscoring GeM’s role in empowering local businesses and fostering inclusive economic growth.

    Data as on 28 February 2025

    Conclusion

    Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has transformed public procurement in India by promoting transparency, efficiency, and inclusiveness. By empowering startups, women entrepreneurs, and MSMEs, GeM fosters economic growth and social equity. The platform’s strategic initiatives, such as SWAYATT, Startup Runway 2.0, and Womaniya, have significantly contributed to the ease of doing business and enhanced participation in government procurement. As GeM continues to evolve, it remains committed to its vision of creating a sustainable, open, and competitive marketplace, driving India’s progress towards inclusive and transparent public procurement practices.

     

    References

    https://gem.gov.in/

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2106076&reg=3&lang=1

    https://assets-bg.gem.gov.in/resources/pdf/GeM_handbook.pdf

    Click here to download PDF

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    Santosh Kumar/Sarla Meena/ Madiha Iqbal

    (Release ID: 2107510) Visitor Counter : 66

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Opening remarks by SCED at opening ceremony of Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Opening remarks by SCED at opening ceremony of Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025 (English only)
    Opening remarks by SCED at opening ceremony of Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025 (English only)
    ******************************************************************************************

         Following are the opening remarks by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, at the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025 today (March 2):Winston (Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Jewellery Advisory Committee, Mr Winston Chow), Lawrence (Chairman of the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show Fair Organising Committee, Mr Lawrence Ma), Margaret (Executive Director of the HKTDC, Ms Margaret Fong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,     Good afternoon. Thank you for coming to the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025. This is a signature event in Hong Kong. This year, we are welcoming some 4 000 exhibitors from over 40 countries and regions. They have all brought with them high-quality products to showcase. I hope that all exhibitors and buyers will find this event rewarding, and can make new friends, new business connections. In addition, I hope you would enjoy your stay in Hong Kong.     Convention and exhibition is a very important sector for us. Hong Kong is strategically right at the heart of Asia, and has superb transport connections with the rest of the world. The connections and the convenience make us a prime location for business activities.     Every year, we host hundreds of large-scale conventions and exhibitions. They in turn attract millions of visitors to Hong Kong, bringing business opportunities for the local tourism, retail, catering and entertainment industries. Of all the international trade shows held in Hong Kong, over 10 are the largest in Asia and globally for their respective trades, including electronics, jewellery, gifts, watches and clocks, lighting, among others.     To bring in more international exhibitions to our city, the Government will launch an incentive scheme later this year called the Incentive Scheme for Recurrent Exhibitions 2.0. The scheme will offer incentive support to attract new or recurrent large-scale international exhibitions to be held in Hong Kong, thereby driving further our economic growth.     The global business environment is facing a lot of uncertainties these days. Protectionism is rising again. It has caused disruptions to trade, supply chain, cash flow and sentiment in the investment market. While putting Hong Kong’s economic resilience to the test, these challenges also make us more determined to reform, to innovate and to improve. But as a matter of principle, Hong Kong is an international trade centre and we will continue to support free trade.     We do not agree with unnecessary tariffs and trade barriers. They affect global trade and capital flows, dampen investment confidence and slow down global economic development. We will continue to be a dedicated supporter of a rule-based multilateral trading system, for the benefits of the whole world.     We hope to see more and more trade shows and mega events in Hong Kong, and welcome you to our city many times in the future. I would also like to thank the organiser for bringing us all together for networking and to enjoy the wonderful jewellery designs on display. Thank you.

     
    Ends/Sunday, March 2, 2025Issued at HKT 16:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) Hosts National Association of Impact Leaders (NAIL) Meet in Goa to Strengthen ESG Leadership in India

    Source: Government of India

    Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) Hosts National Association of Impact Leaders (NAIL) Meet in Goa to Strengthen ESG Leadership in India

    Discussions underscored the need to align organizational strategies with evolving global frameworks, green technology adoption and the transformative power of technology

    IICA announces the 3rd edition of the flagship ESG annual conference of IICA, the National Conference on Responsible Business Conduct (NCRBC), scheduled to be held on the 2nd and 3rd of July 2025

    Posted On: 02 MAR 2025 12:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), under the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, proudly hosted the inaugural National Association of Impact Leaders (NAIL) Meet 2025 in the picturesque setting of Goa. This landmark event, attended by over 100 participants, served as a confluence of eminent ESG professionals, policymakers, and thought leaders, all brought together to exchange insights, deliberate on emerging sustainability trends, and chart the course for a resilient and responsible corporate future. The event was held under the esteemed guidance of Shri Ajay Bhushan Prasad Pandey, DG & CEO, IICA and Chairman, National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA).

    Setting the stage for an intellectually stimulating discourse, the event commenced with a Welcome-and-Context-Setting session led by Prof. Garima Dadhich, Associate Professor and Head, School of Business Environment, IICA. She eloquently articulated the growing significance of ESG leadership in fostering corporate sustainability and underscored the need to align organizational strategies with evolving global frameworks.

    Further enriching the dialogue, Ms. Aruna C. Newton, Vice President, Infosys Limited, presented an illuminating perspective on how robust governance frameworks can accelerate green technology adoption, ultimately fostering a culture of corporate sustainability. Her insights paved the way for Public Relations Associate, Private Sector Engagement, UNICEF, who provided an in-depth analysis of the social dimensions of Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) Core, reinforcing the imperative of inclusive and ethical business conduct.

    Bringing a dynamic exchange of ideas to the fore, a panel discussion, expertly moderated by Prof. Garima Dadhich, engaged distinguished NAIL members, namely,  Mr. J P Dash from Batch I, Mr. Ashok Sethi and Mr. Sridhar L from Batch II, Ms. Shalini Verma and Mr. Paritosh Chauhan from Batch III, in an invigorating deliberation. This stimulating discourse delved into the far-reaching implications of regulatory transformations, including SEBI’s new norms, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), and the dissolution of Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), highlighting both challenges and opportunities for the corporate sector. Elevating this dialogue further, senior official from Department of Debt and Hybrid Securities (DDHS) – PoD, SEBI, offered a deep dive into the evolving ESG rating landscape, illuminating investor expectations and the strategic adjustments corporates must make to remain compliant and competitive. Complementing these insights, the official representative from the corporate finance department at SEBI, provided an authoritative overview of industrial benchmarks set for BRSR Core and their tangible impact on businesses striving to enhance ESG compliance.

    Highlighting the transformative power of technology, Senior Expert-ESG Practice from KPMG India, delivered a presentation on the role of artificial intelligence in revolutionizing ESG data analytics, reporting, and decision-making. This seamlessly transitioned into an engaging session led by Senior Expert WRI India, and Senior Expert CEEW-CEF, who provided a meticulous analysis of greenhouse gas accounting methodologies and underscored the critical role of carbon markets in facilitating a transition towards a net-zero future, respectively.

    The event culminated with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Prof. Garima Dadhich, expressing gratitude to all esteemed speakers, participants, and stakeholders for their invaluable contributions, which was followed by an enriching networking session, where attendees engaged in stimulating conversations on sustainable finance, ESG audits, decarbonization strategies, and business-biodiversity integration.

    During the event, IICA also announced the 3rd edition of the flagship ESG annual conference of IICA, organised with support from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, the National Conference on Responsible Business Conduct (NCRBC), scheduled to be held on the 2nd and 3rd of July 2025. Registrations for the event will open in March 2025.

    National Association of Impact Leaders (NAIL) is poised to emerge as a premier platform for IICA Certified ESG Professionals and Impact Leaders, continuously driving knowledge-sharing, impactful leadership, and meaningful change in the realm of corporate sustainability. For more information on NAIL and the flagship programme for ESG in India, the IICA Certified ESG Professional Impact Leader Programme, please log in to https://iica.nic.in/esgcsr/.

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    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2107494) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Seven in ten businesses want simplified customer experience from telecom providers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Florence Lievre
    Tel: + 33 1 47 54 50 71
    Email: florence.lievre@capgemini.com

    Seven in ten businesses want simplified customer experience from telecom providers

    Businesses expect customized, seamless, flexible, and secure experience when purchasing telecom services

    Paris, March 3, 2025 – The first edition of the Capgemini Research Institute’s new annual study ‘The B2B pulse: Top six expectations of telecoms’ business customers’, published today, reveals a significant shift in business customer expectations. Most organizations across sectors expect telecom companies to go beyond connectivity services. The convergence of AI, Cloud, and 5G marks a pivotal moment, requiring operators to transition from product-focused connectivity providers to being comprehensive and client-centric.
      
    The top expectations: industry-tailored solutions, simplification and ecosystem orchestration
    Two in three business customers (67%) expect their telecom partners to demonstrate a deep understanding of specific industry challenges and provide flexible and tailored solutions that fit their needs, rather than generic services.

    Business customers now seek solutions that operate across hybrid networks, edge computing, and cloud environments: around three in five organizations rely on their telecom providers to orchestrate a comprehensive ecosystem that seamlessly integrates IT, support systems, and industry-specific expertise, while seven out of ten expect simpler processes, along with more flexible purchasing and servicing experiences. However, only one in three organizations are currently satisfied with Service Level Agreement (SLA) compliance and network performance/reliability.

    Most organizations (61%) are keen for their telecom provider to act as a source of innovation. Early access to cutting-edge technologies and joint efforts on pilots and prototypes is a top expectation (62%) while organizations are exploring advanced communications services to support a variety of use cases such as autonomous vehicles, smart city applications, cloud connectivity, and real-time industrial automation.

    “In today’s hyperconnected world, telcos are the backbone of the digital economy. Businesses expect telecom providers to move beyond connectivity services, and offer tailored, end-to-end and flexible solutions that power digitalization, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth,” said Praveen Shankar, Global Telecom Leader at Capgemini. “By forging strong partnerships with customers and industry peers, orchestrating an innovation ecosystem and prioritizing seamless customer experience, telecom organizations can enhance trust, simplify offerings, and differentiate themselves in a fast-moving landscape.”

    Customer experience, an untapped opportunity for telco provider growth
    While telcos’ customers are keen to access services beyond the core offerings, only 28% of organizations currently say that they purchase these services, from their provider. In their urgency to set up these value-added services only 27% of organizations say their telco providers currently deliver exceptional CX, while half are ready to pay a premium to improve it, highlighting that customer experience is still an untapped opportunity to accelerate growth and boost loyalty and innovation for telco providers.

    Businesses rely on telecom providers for robust and reliable security safeguards
    Among the various facets of telecom services, cybersecurity is a priority area for more than 70% of the organizations surveyed. With technological advancements, such as AI and Gen AI, cloudification, and wireless/5G networks, the threat landscape for organizations is evolving rapidly and businesses are increasingly concerned about protecting their data and systems. The report highlights that enterprises are looking for comprehensive security solutions from their telecom providers, with more than half of organizations (53%) willing to invest in telecom tech services, such as implementation of advanced cybersecurity solutions, in the next 1–2 years.

    For more information or to download the report, visit: Link

    Methodology

    The Capgemini Research Institute surveyed 1,000 executives, at director level or above from telecoms’ business customers across 11 sectors and 13 countries in Asia–Pacific, Europe, and North America. To complement the survey findings, twenty in-depth discussions were conducted with executives from the telecom industry and customer industries. The global survey was carried out in December 2024 and January 2025.

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

    About the Capgemini Research Institute
    The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. It was ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts for six consecutive times – an industry first. Visit us at https://www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute/

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NBPE Announces January Monthly NAV Estimate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    3 March 2025

    NB Private Equity Partners (NBPE), the $1.3bn1, FTSE 250, listed private equity investment company managed by Neuberger Berman, today announces its 31 January 2025 monthly NAV estimate.

    NAV Highlights (31 January 2025)

    • NAV per share was $27.10 (£21.81), a total return of 2.5% in the month, after accruing the 1H 2025 dividend
    • Approximately 78% of fair value based on private company valuation information as of Q4 2024 or based on 31 January 2025 quoted prices
    • Based on information received so far, private company valuations increased by 2.8% (measured against the NAV of all private investments) during Q4 2024 on a constant currency basis
    • NBPE expects to receive additional updated Q4 2024 financial information which will be incorporated in the monthly NAV updates in the coming weeks
    • $281 million of available liquidity at 31 January 2025
    • ~21k shares repurchased during January 2025 at a weighted average discount of 29% which were accretive to NAV by <$0.01 per share
    As of 31 January 2025 Year to Date One Year 3 years 5 years 10 years
    NAV TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 2.5% 2.1% 3.2%
    1.1%    		 70.1%
    11.2%    		 166.4%
    10.3%
    MSCI World TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 3.6% 21.9% 33.4%
    10.1%    		 81.1%
    12.6%    		 186.7%
    11.1%
               
    Share price TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 0.2% (0.2%) 1.5%
    0.5%    		 59.3%
    9.8%    		 201.1%
    11.7%
    FTSE All-Share TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 5.5% 17.1% 25.5%
    7.9%    		 37.9%
    6.6%    		 87.1%
    6.5%

    * All NBPE performance figures assume re-investment of dividends on the ex-dividend date and reflect cumulative returns over the relevant time periods shown. Three-year, five-year and ten-year annualised returns are presented for USD NAV, MSCI World (USD), GBP Share Price and FTSE All-Share (GBP) Total Returns.

    Portfolio Update to 31 January 2025

    NAV performance during the month driven by:

    • 3.0% NAV increase ($37 million) from the receipt of private company valuation information
    • 1.7% NAV decrease ($22 million) attributable to the 1H 2025 dividend accrual
    • 0.4% NAV decrease ($5 million) from the value of quoted holdings (which now constitute 6% of portfolio fair value)
    • 0.2% NAV decrease ($3 million) attributable to expense accruals
    • Immaterial impact on NAV from changes in FX

    $3 million of realisations in 2025 to date

    • $3 million of realisations received during the month of January, consisting of partial realisation proceeds

    $281 million of total liquidity at 31 January 2025

    • $71 million of cash and liquid investments with $210 million of undrawn credit line available

    2025 Share Buybacks

    • ~21k shares repurchased in January 2025 at a weighted average discount of 29%
    • Buybacks were accretive to NAV by <$0.01 per share
    • On 19th February, NBPE’s board announced that it had reserved $120 million for buybacks over the next three years

    Portfolio Valuation

    The fair value of NBPE’s portfolio as of 31 January 2025 was based on the following information:

    • 6% of the portfolio was valued as of 31 January 2025
      • 6% in public securities
    • 72% of the portfolio was valued as of 31 December 2024
      • 72% in private direct investments
    • 22% of the portfolio was valued as of 30 September 2024
      • 22% in private direct investments

    For further information, please contact:

    NBPE Investor Relations        +44 (0) 20 3214 9002
    Luke Mason        NBPrivateMarketsIR@nb.com  

    Kaso Legg Communications        +44 (0)20 3882 6644

    Charles Gorman        nbpe@kl-communications.com
    Luke Dampier
    Charlotte Francis

    Supplementary Information (as at 31 January 2025)

    Company Name Vintage Lead Sponsor Sector Fair Value ($m) % of FV
    Action 2020 3i Consumer 74.7 5.8%
    Osaic 2019 Reverence Capital Financial Services 70.6 5.4%
    Solenis 2021 Platinum Equity Industrials 60.0 4.6%
    BeyondTrust 2018 Francisco Partners Technology / IT 50.0 3.9%
    Business Services Company* 2017 Not Disclosed Business Services 40.1 3.1%
    Branded Cities Network 2017 Shamrock Capital Communications / Media 39.2 3.0%
    Monroe Engineering 2021 AEA Investors Industrials 38.2 2.9%
    Mariner 2024 Leonard Green & Partners Financial Services 34.8 2.7%
    GFL (NYSE: GFL) 2018 BC Partners Business Services 34.1 2.6%
    FDH Aero 2024 Audax Group Industrials 33.0 2.5%
    True Potential 2022 Cinven Financial Services 32.3 2.5%
    Staples 2017 Sycamore Partners Business Services 31.6 2.4%
    Marquee Brands 2014 Neuberger Berman Consumer 31.2 2.4%
    Auctane 2021 Thoma Bravo Technology / IT 28.8 2.2%
    Fortna 2017 THL Industrials 28.7 2.2%
    Viant 2018 JLL Partners Healthcare 27.1 2.1%
    Stubhub 2020 Neuberger Berman Consumer 26.5 2.0%
    Benecon 2024 TA Associates Healthcare 26.0 2.0%
    Agiliti 2019 THL Healthcare 25.3 1.9%
    Solace Systems 2016 Bridge Growth Partners Technology / IT 24.4 1.9%
    Engineering 2020 NB Renaissance / Bain Capital Technology / IT 24.1 1.9%
    Addison Group 2021 Trilantic Capital Partners Business Services 23.8 1.8%
    Kroll 2020 Further Global / Stone Point Financial Services 23.6 1.8%
    USI 2017 KKR Financial Services 22.2 1.7%
    Qpark 2017 KKR Transportation 22.0 1.7%
    Excelitas 2022 AEA Investors Industrials 21.9 1.7%
    CH Guenther 2021 Pritzker Private Capital Consumer 21.4 1.7%
    Exact 2019 KKR Technology / IT                            21.4 1.6%
    Bylight 2017 Sagewind Partners Technology / IT 19.5 1.5%
    AutoStore (OB.AUTO) 2019 THL Industrials 18.8 1.4%
    Total Top 30 Investments                             $975.2 75.1%

    *Undisclosed company due to confidentiality provisions.

    Geography % of Portfolio
    North America 79%
    Europe 20%
    Asia / Rest of World 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Industry % of Portfolio
    Tech, Media & Telecom 22%
    Consumer / E-commerce 21%
    Industrials / Industrial Technology 17%
    Financial Services 16%
    Business Services 11%
    Healthcare 8%
    Other 4%
    Energy 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Vintage Year % of Portfolio
    2016 & Earlier 10%
    2017 18%
    2018 15%
    2019 13%
    2020 12%
    2021 17%
    2022 5%
    2023 2%
    2024 8%
    Total Portfolio 100%

    About NB Private Equity Partners Limited
    NBPE invests in direct private equity investments alongside market leading private equity firms globally. NB Alternatives Advisers LLC (the “Investment Manager”), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Neuberger Berman Group LLC, is responsible for sourcing, execution and management of NBPE. The vast majority of direct investments are made with no management fee / no carried interest payable to third-party GPs, offering greater fee efficiency than other listed private equity companies. NBPE seeks capital appreciation through growth in net asset value over time while paying a bi-annual dividend.

    LEI number: 213800UJH93NH8IOFQ77

    About Neuberger Berman
    Neuberger Berman is an employee-owned, private, independent investment manager founded in 1939 with over 2,800 employees in 26 countries. The firm manages $508 billion of equities, fixed income, private equity, real estate and hedge fund portfolios for global institutions, advisors and individuals. Neuberger Berman’s investment philosophy is founded on active management, fundamental research and engaged ownership. The firm’s leadership in stewardship and sustainable investing is recognized by the PRI based on its consecutive above median reporting assessment results. Neuberger Berman has been named by Pensions & Investments as the #1 or #2 Best Place to Work in Money Management for each of the last eleven years (firms with more than 1,000 employees). Visit www.nb.com for more information. Data as of 31 December 2024, unless otherwise noted.

    1Based on net asset value.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the GUU professor Mikhail Makarenko!

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On March 3, 2025, Mikhail Vladimirovich Makarenko, professor of the State University of Management, Doctor of Economics, Honorary Chemist of the USSR, Veteran of Labor, veteran of the Great Patriotic War, will turn 100 years old!

    Mikhail Makarenko was drafted into the army in 1943 at the age of 18. He took part in battles on the 3rd and 4th Ukrainian Fronts as part of the 3rd Guards Army of General Dmitry Lelyushenko, liberated Donbass and Zaporozhye, was wounded twice, and went through the entire war to Berlin. He was awarded the Order of the Patriotic War and many medals.

    In 1969, Mikhail Vladimirovich was appointed associate professor of the Department of Economics and Organization of the Chemical Industry at the Moscow Engineering and Economics Institute (now the State University of Management). Having defended his doctoral dissertation and received the title of professor, he worked fruitfully at the university until 2014 at the Department of Industrial Business of the Institute of Industry Management.

    During his professional and scientific career, Mikhail Vladimirovich has trained 5 doctors and 25 candidates of science, and has about 150 publications to his credit: scientific articles and teaching aids. The professor still leads an active life and even acts as an opponent of dissertations.

    The staff of the State University of Management heartily congratulates Mikhail Vladimirovich Makarenko on his 100th birthday and wishes him good health and creative longevity.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 03.03.2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address in NXT Conclave

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 2:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Namaskar, 

    ITV Network founder and my colleague in Parliament, Kartikeya Sharma ji, the entire team of the network, all the guests from India and abroad, other dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen, NewsX World’s auspicious beginning and for this I congratulate all of you, my best wishes. Today, all the regional channels of your network including Hindi and English are going global. And today many fellowships and scholarships have also been started. I wish all of you the best for these programs.

    Friends, 

    I have been attending such media events earlier also, but today I feel that you have set a new trend and I congratulate you for this too. Such media events keep happening in our country, and it is a tradition that is continuing. There are some economic topics in it, it is a matter of benefit for everyone, but your network has given it a new dimension. You have worked on a new model by breaking away from the norm. I remember, if I talk about the earlier summits and your summit I have been listening to since yesterday, the earlier summits organised by different media houses have been leader-centric, I am happy that this one is policy-centric, policies are being discussed here. Most of the events that have taken place have been about living the present on the basis of the past. I see that your summit is dedicated to the future. I have seen that in all such programs that I have seen from afar or have attended myself, the importance of controversy was more there, here the importance of dialogue is more. And I firmly believe that all the events that I have attended are held in a small room and have their own people. Seeing such a huge event here and that too the event of a media house and people from all walks of life being here, is a big thing in itself. It is possible that other media people will not get any masala (scoop) from here, but the country will get a lot of inspiration, because the thoughts of every person who comes here will be thoughts that inspire the country. I hope that in the coming days other media houses will also adopt this trend, this template, in their own way and make it innovative and at least come out of that small room.

    Friends, 

    Today the whole world is looking at 21st century India, people from all over the world want to come to India, want to know India. Today India is the country in the world where positive news is being created continuously. There is no need to manufacture news, where new records are being made every day, something new is happening. Just on 26 February, the Maha Kumbh of unity was concluded in Prayagraj. The whole world is surprised that how in a temporary city, a temporary arrangement, crores of people came to the banks of the river, travelled hundreds of kilometers and got filled with emotions after taking a holy bath. Today the world is seeing India’s organising and innovating skills. We are manufacturing everything from semiconductors to aircraft carriers right here. The world wants to know about this success of India in detail. I think that this NewsX World is a very big opportunity in itself.

    Friends, 

    Just a few months ago, India conducted the world’s largest elections. After 60 years, it happened that a government in India has returned to power for the third consecutive time. The basis of this public trust are India’s many achievements in the last 11 years. I am confident that your new channel will take India’s real stories to the world. Without adding any colour, your global channel will show the picture of India as it is, we do not need makeup.

    Friends, 

    Many years ago, I had presented the vision of Vocal for Local and Local for Global to the country. Today we are seeing this vision turning into reality. Today our Ayush products and Yoga have gone from Local to Global. Go anywhere in the world, you will find someone who knows Yoga, my friend Tony is sitting here, he is a daily Yoga practitioner.  Today, India’s superfood, our Makhana, is going global from local. India’s millets – Shreeanna, are also going global from local. And I have come to know that my friend, Tony Abbott, has had first-hand experience of Indian millets at Delhi Haat, and he liked the millet dishes very much and I felt very happy to hear this.

    Friends, 

    Not only millets, India’s turmeric has also gone from local to global, India supplies more than 60 percent of the world’s turmeric. India’s coffee has also gone from local to global, India has become the world’s seventh largest coffee exporter. Today India’s mobiles, electronic products, medicines made in India are making their global identity. And along with all this, one more thing has happened. India is leading many global initiatives. Recently I got a chance to go to the AI ​​Action Summit in France. India was the co-host of this summit which is taking the world towards the AI ​​future. Now India has the responsibility of hosting it. India organised such a wonderful G-20 Summit during its presidency. During this summit, we gave the world a new economic route in the form of India-Middle East-Europe Corridor. India also gave a strong voice to the Global South, we have connected the island nations and their interests to our priority. India has given the vision of Mission Life to the world to deal with the climate crisis. Similarly, International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, there are many such initiatives which India is leading globally. And I am happy that today when many brands of India are going global, the media of India is also going global. It is understanding this global opportunity.

    Friends, 

    For decades, the world used to call India its back office. But today, India is becoming the new factory of the world. We are not just becoming a workforce, but a world-force! Today, the country is becoming an emerging export hub for the things that we once imported. The farmer who was once limited to the local market, today his crop is reaching the markets of the whole world. The demand for Pulwama’s Snow Peas, Maharashtra’s Purandar Figs and Kashmir’s Cricket Bats is now increasing in the world. Our Defence products are showing the world the power of Indian Engineering and technology. From the Electronics to Automobile Sector, the world has seen our scale and capability. We are not only providing our products to the world, India is also becoming a trusted and reliable partner in the global supply chain.

    Friends, 

    If we have become a leader in many sectors today, then it is because of years of well deliberated hard work. This has been possible only due to systematic policy decisions. Look at the journey of 10 years, where bridges were incomplete, roads were stuck, today dreams are moving ahead at a new pace. With good roads, excellent expressways, both travel time and cost have reduced. This has given the industry an opportunity to reduce the turnaround time of logistics. Our automobile sector got a huge benefit from this. This increased the demand for vehicles, we encouraged the production of vehicles and EVs. Today we have emerged as a major automobile producer and exporter in the world.

    Friends, 

    A similar change has been seen in electronics manufacturing. In the last decade, electricity reached more than 2.5 crore households for the first time. The demand for electricity increased in the country, production increased, which increased the demand for Electronic Equipment. When we made data cheaper, the demand for mobile phones increased. As more and more services were brought on mobile phones, the consumption of digital devices increased further. By turning this demand into an opportunity, we started programs like PLI Schemes. Today, India has become a major electronics exporter.

    Friends, 

    Today India is able to set very big targets and is achieving them, so there is a special mantra at the core of this. This mantra is – minimum government, maximum governance. This is the mantra of efficient and effective governance. That means no interference from the government, no pressure from the government. I will give you an interesting example. In the last decade, we have abolished about 1500 laws that have lost their importance. It is a big deal to abolish 1500 laws. Many of these laws were made during British rule. Now I will tell you something, you will be surprised to hear that there was a law called dramatic performance act, this law was made by the British 150 years ago, at that time the British wanted that drama and theatre should not be used against the then government. There was a provision in this law that if 10 people were found dancing in a public place, they could be arrested. And this law continued for 75 years after the country got independence. That is, if there is a wedding procession and 10 people are dancing, the police can arrest them including the groom. This law was in force for 70-75 years after independence. This law was removed by our government. Now, we have borne this law for 70 years, I have nothing to say to the government of that time, those leaders, they are sitting here too, but I am more surprised by this Lutyens’ group, this Khan Market gang. Why were these people silent on such a law for 75 years? Those who go to court every day, who roam around like contractors of PIL, why were these people silent? Did they not remember liberty then? If someone thinks today, what would have happened if Modi had made such a law? And these trollers on social media, if they too had spread such false news that Modi was going to make such a law, these people would have created a ruckus, would have pulled Modi’s hair.

    Friends, 

    It is our government that has abolished this law from the times of slavery. I will give another example of bamboo, bamboo is the lifeline of our tribal areas, especially the North East. But earlier, you were sent to jail even for cutting bamboo, why was the law made now? Now, if I ask you, is bamboo a tree? Some will believe that it is a tree, some will believe that it is a tree, you will be surprised that even after 70 years of independence, the government of my country believed that bamboo is a tree, and therefore, just as cutting trees was prohibited, cutting bamboo was also prohibited. There was a law in our country which considered bamboo to be a tree, and all the laws for trees were applicable to it, it was difficult to cut it. Our earlier rulers could not understand that bamboo is not a tree. The British may have had their own interests, but why did we not do it? Even the decades old law related to bamboo was changed by our own government.

    Friends, 

    You must remember how difficult it was for a common man to file ITR 10 years ago. Today you file ITR in a few moments and the refund is also deposited directly in the account within a few days. Now the process of making the law related to income tax even simpler is going on in the Parliament. We have made income up to Rs. 12 lakh tax free, yes now there is applause, you did not applaud the bamboo because it belongs to the tribals. And this is going to benefit especially the media personnel, the salaried class like you. The youth who are doing their first and second jobs, their aspirations are also different, their expenses are also different. They should fulfil their aspirations, their savings should increase, the budget has helped a lot in this. Our aim is to give the people of the country Ease of Living, Ease of Doing Business, give them open skies to fly. Today see how many start-ups are taking advantage of geospatial data. Earlier, if someone had to make a map, they had to take permission from the government. We changed this and today our start-ups and private companies are making excellent use of this data.

    Friends,

    India, which gave the world the concept of Zero, is today becoming the land of Infinite Innovations. Today India is not just innovating but also indovating. And when I say indovate, it means – Innovating The Indian Way. Through indovating, we are creating solutions that are affordable, accessible and adaptable. We are not gate-keeping these solutions but have offered them to the entire world. When the world wanted a secure and cost-effective digital payment system, we created the UPI system. I was listening to Professor Carlos Montes, he seemed very impressed with the people-friendly nature of technology like UPI. Today, countries like France, UAE, Singapore are integrating UPI in their financial ecosystem. Today, many countries of the world are making agreements to join our digital public infrastructure, India Stack. During the Covid pandemic, our vaccine showed the world the model of India’s Quality Healthcare Solutions. We also open-sourced the Arogya Setu app so that the world can benefit from it. India is a major space power; we are also helping other countries to achieve their space aspirations. India is also working on AI for Public Good and is also sharing its experience and expertise with the world.

    Friends,

    ITV Network has launched many fellowships today. India’s youth is the biggest beneficiary of developed India and also the biggest stakeholder. Therefore, India’s youth is a very big priority for us. National Education Policy has given children an opportunity to think beyond books. Children are getting ready for the field of AI and Data Science by learning coding from middle school itself. Atal Tinkering Labs are giving children hands-on experience of emerging technologies. Therefore, in this year’s budget, we have announced to create 50 thousand new Atal Tinkering Labs.

    Friends,

    In the world of news, you people take subscriptions from different agencies, this helps you in getting better news coverage. Similarly, in the field of research, students need more and more information sources. For this, earlier they had to take subscriptions of different journals at expensive rates, they had to spend money themselves. Our government has freed all researchers from this worry too. We have brought One Nation One Subscription. With this, every researcher of the country is sure to get free access to the world’s renowned journals. The government is going to spend more than 6 thousand crore rupees on this. We are ensuring that every student gets the best research facilities. Be it space exploration, biotech research or AI, our children are emerging as future leaders. Dr. Brian Green has met the students of IIT and astronaut Mike Massimino went to meet the students of Central School and as he said, his experience has been really wonderful. The day is not far when a big innovation of the future will come out of a small school in India.

    Friends,

    Let the flag of India fly on every global platform, this is our aspiration, this is our direction.

    Friends,

    This is not the time to think small and take small steps. I am happy that as a media organisation, you too have understood this sentiment. You see, till 10 years ago you used to think about how to reach different states of the country, how to make your media house reach, today you too have gathered the courage to go global. This inspiration, this pledge, should be the one of every citizen, every entrepreneur today. My dream is that there should be some Indian brand in every market of the world, in every drawing room, on every dining table. Made in India – should become the mantra of the world. If someone is ill, he should first think about – Heal in India. If someone wants to get married, he should first think about – Wed in India. If someone wants to travel, he should put India on top of his list. If someone wants to hold a conference or an exhibition, he should come to India first. If someone wants to hold a concert, he should first choose India. We have to develop this strength, this positive attitude in ourselves. Your network and your channel will play a big role in this. The possibilities are infinite, now we have to turn them into reality with our courage and determination.

    Friends,

    India is moving ahead with the resolve to become a developed India in the next 25 years. You too should move ahead with the resolve to bring yourself on the world stage as a media house. I believe that you will definitely succeed in this. I once again convey my best wishes to the entire team of ITV Network and I also congratulate the participants who have come from the country and the world, their views have definitely strengthened a positive thinking, I am thankful for this too, because when the pride of India increases, every Indian feels happy and proud and for this I thank them all very much. Namaskaram.

     

    DISCLAIMER: This is the approximate translation of PM’s speech. Original speech was delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Jayant Chaudhary launches Swavalambini, a Women Entrepreneurship Programme

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Shri Jayant Chaudhary launches Swavalambini, a Women Entrepreneurship Programme

    Programme simultaneously launched at Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut and other Higher Education Institutes across India

    MSDE and NITI Aayog join hands in this transformational initiative to promote and nurture entrepreneurial aspirations among women

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 6:09PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), in collaboration with NITI Aayog, launched Swavalambini— a Women Entrepreneurship Programme at Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, taking a significant step towards strengthening women entrepreneurship in India. This initiative empowers female students in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) by providing them with the necessary entrepreneurial mindset, resources, and mentorship to successfully build and scale their ventures.

    Minister of State (I/C) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and MoS for Education Shri Jayant Chaudhary during his address, said “The Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme is an initiative aimed at empowering young women with the skills and confidence needed to establish their own businesses. We want to move beyond programmes that enlist women as beneficiaries of the schemes, we want to move to women-led development initiatives and this is our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s conceptualisation as well. Women’s participation is crucial for India’s progress. Imagine the limitless possibilities if we break barriers and provide women with the right resources, training, and financial support, we can unlock their true potential. Women’s empowerment is not just an economic necessity but a social transformation. When a woman is empowered, she uplifts her family, her community, and the entire nation.”

    Shri Jayant Chaudhary also added, “The Government of India has consistently focused on providing equal opportunities to youth of India through the National Education Policy which has given them the vision to learn and excel in their careers. We look forward to introducing a curriculum with AI related courses in schools and colleges, to create awareness and upskill the youth of our country”

    Under the aegis of MSDE and implemented by the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) and in joint partnership with NITI Ayog, Swavalambini aims to establish a structured and stage-wise entrepreneurial journey for young women. The programme will take participants through various stages, including awareness-building, skill development, mentorship, and funding support. By promoting and recognising promising women-led ventures, the initiative seeks to set a benchmark for the future of women entrepreneurship in India.

    Following its successful introduction across several HEIs in the Eastern region, including IIT Bhubaneswar and Utkal University in Odisha; North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong; Kiang Nangbah Government College, Jowai and Ri Bhoi College in Meghalaya; Mizoram University; Government Champhai College, Champhai and Lunglei Government College in Mizoram; Handique Girls’ College, Guwahati; Dispur College and Gauhati University in Assam, among others, Swavalambini is now being expanded to other regions of the country.

    The event also marked the virtual launch of Swavalambini in Banaras Hindu University (BHU), University of Hyderabad, and Maulana Azad National Urdu University, thereby extending the reach of this initiative across different regions of the country.

    The programme introduces a structured, multi-stage training approach to help young women transition from ideation to successful enterprise creation. It begins with an Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP), a two-day workshop designed to introduce around 600 female students to fundamental entrepreneurial concepts, market opportunities, and essential business skills. This is followed by the Women Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP), a 40-hour training initiative for 300 selected students. The EDP covers critical aspects of business development, finance access, market linkages, compliance, and legal support. Additionally, a six-month mentorship and handholding support system has been incorporated to help participants transform their ideas into sustainable business ventures.

    To ensure long-term impact, the programme also includes a Faculty Development Programme (FDP), where faculty members from participating HEIs undergo a five-day training session. This initiative equips educators with the necessary skills to mentor and guide aspiring women entrepreneurs within their institutions. Furthermore, Swavalambini will recognise and reward successful women entrepreneurs emerging from the programme through the Award to Rewards Initiative, inspiring future participants. The programme will leverage workshops, seed funding, and structured mentoring to support the growth of women-led enterprises.

    By advocating an ecosystem that nurtures women entrepreneurs, Swavalambini is poised to create a significant impact in North India and beyond. The initiative aspires to see at least 10% of the EDP-trained participants establish successful enterprises, contributing to the larger vision of a self-reliant, women-led entrepreneurial landscape in India. With the launch in Meerut, Varanasi and Telangana and the successful implementation in the East, the programme continues to empower women as business leaders, innovators, and change makers. Through structured training, mentorship, and policy support, Swavalambini is set to redefine the future of women entrepreneurship in the country.

    TWO MOU SIGNING

    Marking the occasion, the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) has signed two MoUs with the Skills Development Network (SDN), an Indian Trust registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulations) Act, 2010 and implementing partner of Wadhwani Foundation in India; and with Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, to enhance entrepreneurial skills, develop curricula, and promote self-employment through training, workshops, and incubation support, thereby strengthening entrepreneurship education and ecosystem development for economic growth.

    WEF2025 REPORT LAUNCH

    Shri Jayant Chaudhary, also launched a report on his participation at the World Economic Forum 2025—”LEADING WITH VISION FOR SKILLS AND INNOVATION.” The booklet highlights India’s transformative advancements in skill development and innovation, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to equipping its workforce with future-ready capabilities. The report outlines key insights shared across roundtables and panel discussions held at WEF2025 on emerging job trends, industry collaborations, and India’s role in shaping the global skilling agenda.

    Dr. Laxmikant Bajpai, MP, Rajya Sabha; Dr. Raj Kumar Sangwan, MP, Lok Sabha, Baghpat; Shri. Chandan Chauhan, MP, Lok Sabha, Bijnor; Shri. Dharmendra Bharadwaj, MLC, Uttar Pradesh; Shri. Haji Ghulam Muhammad, MLA Siwalkhas, Meerut; Shri. Atul Pradhan, MLA, Sardhana, Meerut; Shri. Gaurav Chaudhary, Jila Panchayat Adhyaksh, Meerut; Shri. Amit Agarwal, MLA, Meerut Contonment, Meerut and partner institutions, graced the occasion.

    Joint Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurshuip, Shri Shreeshail Malge, Smt Sangeeta Shukla,Vice Chancellor, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut and other officials of the MSDE were also present on the occasion.

    ******

    Pawan Singh Faujdar/Divyanshu Kumar

    (Release ID: 2107337) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Towards a Fit and Healthy India: Combating Obesity Through Collective Action

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 10:41AM by PIB Delhi

    “By making small changes in our food habits, we can make our future stronger, fitter and disease-free.”

    • Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi

     

    Introduction

    Obesity has become a major public health challenge in India, affecting people across all age groups and increasing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. Driven by unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and environmental factors, obesity is rising at an alarming rate, impacting both urban and rural populations. The shift towards processed foods, reduced physical activity, and lifestyle changes has further contributed to this growing crisis.

     

    Recognizing the urgency of this issue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his recent Mann Ki Baat address, emphasized the need for nationwide awareness and collective action to reduce obesity, particularly through lower edible oil consumption. He nominated prominent individuals across India to lead an awareness movement. This call for collective action highlights the importance of tackling obesity at both individual and community levels, reinforcing the need for a fitter and healthier India. The Government of India has launched several initiatives, including the Fit India Movement, NP-NCD, POSHAN Abhiyaan, Eat Right India, and Khelo India, to promote healthier lifestyles, better nutrition, and physical activity. These programs aim to encourage long-term behavioural change, ensuring a healthier future for all. As India moves towards Amrit Kaal, a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach is being adopted to tackle obesity through policy reforms, community engagement, and regulatory measures. Strengthening public health systems, promoting sustainable food habits, and increasing awareness are key to reversing this trend and safeguarding future generations from obesity-related health risks.

    Understanding Obesity: Definition and Causes

    What is Obesity?

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity is defined as an abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health. The commonly used metric to classify obesity is Body Mass Index (BMI), where a BMI of 25 or above is considered overweight, and a BMI of 30 or above is classified as obese. In India, a person is considered overweight if their Body Mass Index (BMI) is between 23.0 and 24.9 kg/m², and obese if their BMI is 25 kg/m² or higher. Morbid obesity occurs when a person’s BMI is 35 or more.

    What is BMI?

    Body Mass Index (BMI), previously known as the Quetelet index, is a simple way to check if an adult has a healthy weight. It is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared (kg/m²). To find BMI, take a person’s weight (kg) and divide it by their height (m) squared.

    Healthy BMI Range
    A normal BMI falls between 18.5 and 24.9, based on the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

    Global Statistics

    The prevalence of overweight and obesity has been rising steadily among both adults and children worldwide. Between 1990 and 2022, the percentage of children and adolescents (aged 5–19 years) with obesity increased fourfold, from 2% to 8%. During the same period, the proportion of adults (aged 18 and older) with obesity more than doubled, rising from 7% to 16%.

    India’s Obesity Statistics

    • As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5 (2019-21), overall, 24% of Indian women and 23% of Indian men are overweight or obese
    • As per the NFHS-5, (2019-2021) in the category of ages 15-49 years, 6.4 % of women and 4.0 % of men, are obese.
    • There has also been an increase in the percentage of children under 5 years who are overweight (weight-for-height) from 2.1 percent in NFHS-4 (2015-16) to 3.4 percent in NFHS-5 (2019-21) at All-India level.

    Key Factors Driving the Rise of Obesity in India

    Government of India’s Strategic Framework for Obesity Prevention

    Policy Innovations and Measurable Outcomes

     

    Recognizing obesity as a critical public health concern, the Government of India has launched comprehensive, multi-pronged initiatives to prevent, manage, and reduce obesity at all levels. The interventions are strategically designed by multiple ministries to promote a holistic approach that integrates health, nutrition, physical activity, food safety, and lifestyle modifications. These efforts can be categorized under the following key intervention areas:

     

    1. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) – Strengthening Public Health Responses

    1.1 National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) 

    In India, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) cause 63% of all deaths, according to WHO’s 2018 – NCD India profile. The leading causes are cardiovascular diseases (27%), followed by chronic respiratory diseases (11%), cancers (9%), diabetes (3%), and other conditions, including obesity (13%).

    Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases are largely driven by modifiable lifestyle factors, including tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and alcohol consumption. Air pollution further increases the risk. These factors contribute to obesity, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and raised cholesterol levels, all of which significantly increase the likelihood of developing NCDs. Since many of these risk factors are preventable, addressing obesity and unhealthy habits can play a crucial role in reducing the burden of NCDs.

    The Department of Health and Family Welfare under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) (NP-NCD) through the National Health Mission (NHM), aims to promote health through behaviour change by engaging communities, civil society, media, and development partners. It focuses on screening, early diagnosis, management, referral, and follow-up at all healthcare levels to ensure continuous care. The program also strengthens the capacity of healthcare providers for prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, awareness (IEC/BCC), monitoring, and research. Additionally, it enhances supply chain management for essential drugs, equipment, and logistics while ensuring effective supervision, evaluation, and nationwide implementation through a uniform ICT system.

    Mortality due to Non Communicable Diseases in India

    Key Components

    • Facilities Established Under NPCDCS – 682 District NCD Clinics, 191 District Cardiac Care Units, 5,408 CHC NCD Clinics. 
    • Preventive Care & Awareness – Implemented through Ayushman Bharat HWCs with wellness activities & community outreach.

    2. Ministry of AYUSH: Promoting Traditional & Holistic Wellness Practices

    The Ministry of Ayush has implemented several initiatives to address obesity and promote effective weight management through Ayurveda:

     

    1. Specialized Ayurvedic Care: The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi offers specialized treatments for obesity and related lifestyle disorders. These treatments combine Panchakarma therapies, Ayurvedic medications, personalized dietary guidelines, and yoga therapy. To date, approximately 45,000 patients with diabetes and metabolic disorders have benefited from these services.

     

    1. Research and Evidence Generation: The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) conducts research to validate the safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic interventions for lifestyle disorders, including obesity. Studies have demonstrated that practices such as Dincharya (daily regimen), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), Ahara (dietary guidelines), and Yoga are effective in maintaining overall health and preventing conditions like obesity.
    2. Ayurswasthya Yojana: This Central Sector Scheme, operational since FY 2021-22, includes the ‘Ayush and Public Health’ component aimed at promoting AYUSH interventions in community healthcare. The scheme supports projects focused on managing lifestyle disorders and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with 11 projects currently addressing issues such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis.
    3. Collaborative Research Efforts: The Ministry has partnered with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to enhance scientific research in Ayurveda. This collaboration focuses on developing and implementing research programs that integrate traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern science, particularly in managing lifestyle disorders like obesity.

    Through these comprehensive measures, the Ministry of Ayush is actively contributing to the prevention and management of obesity, promoting a holistic approach to health and well-being.

     

    3. Ministry of Women and Child Development:

    POSHAN Abhiyaan : Preventing Childhood Obesity

     

    POSHAN Abhiyaan, launched on 8th March 2018, is the Government of India’s flagship initiative for holistic nourishment. It aims to improve nutritional outcomes for children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers by fostering a convergent ecosystem that enhances nutrition content, delivery, and awareness to combat malnutrition and promote overall wellness.

     

     

    Key Components of POSHAN Abhiyaan & Poshan 2.0

     

    POSHAN Abhiyaan adopts a holistic approach to tackle malnutrition through technology-driven monitoring, multi-ministerial collaboration, and community engagement under the Jan Andolan Movement. It promotes Poshan Vatikas (Nutri-Gardens) for homegrown nutrition, strengthens Anganwadi services and adolescent health under Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 (2021), and integrates AYUSH-based wellness practices. The program emphasizes maternal and child nutrition, dietary diversity, and food fortification, encouraging millet consumption and nutrient-rich diets to combat anemia and deficiencies.

     

    4. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports: Fostering a Culture of Physical Fitness

    4.1 Fit India Movement: A Mass Fitness Revolution 

    • Launched by PM Narendra Modi in 2019, the Fit India Movement promotes active lifestyles and encourages individuals to incorporate fitness into daily routines.
    • Key Components:
      • Fit India School Certification for schools incorporating physical activity in their curriculum.
      • Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative promoting cycling and walking in urban spaces 

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, inaugurated the ‘Fit India Cycling Drive’

    • Community-led fitness programs such as mass yoga sessions, running clubs, and workplace fitness challenges.

    4.2 Khelo India Programme: Building an Active Generation

    The Khelo India – National Programme for Development of Sports was launched in 2016-17 to promote sports participation at all levels, from schools to elite competitions, by fostering a culture of athletic excellence across the country. It focuses on providing top-notch training and world-class infrastructure to young athletes, ensuring they receive the necessary resources to excel in their respective sports. The scheme ensures equal sports opportunities across rural and urban India.

     

    Major Achievements:

    5. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): Regulating Food for Public Health

    5.1 Eat Right India Movement (FSSAI): Reforming Food Choices for a Healthier Future 

    The Eat Right India movement, initiated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), encompasses several key initiatives aimed at ensuring safe, healthy, and sustainable food for all. Below are the primary initiatives:

    Key Initiatives of Eat Right India

     

    Supply-Side Initiatives:

    • Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC): The Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) certificate is issued by FSSAI, certifying food safety supervisors in every food business.
    • Certification Programs: Ensures hygiene in street food hubs, markets, stations, and places of worship.
    • Hygiene Rating: Rates restaurants, catering services, sweet shops, and meat vendors on hygiene standards.

     

    Demand-Side Initiatives:

    • Consumer Awareness: Promotes food safety through Eat Right Campus & Eat Right School programs.
    • Adulteration Detection: Provides DART Book & Magic Box for home and school food testing.

     

    Food Safety DART Book – The Detect Adulteration with Rapid Test (DART) booklet provides over 50 easy household tests to detect food adulteration using simple solutions. Freely downloadable for public awareness, it cannot be used for commercial purposes or imply FSSAI endorsement.

     

    Food Safety Magic Box – FSSAI’s Food Safety Magic Box-Companion Book is a learning tool for schools, teachers, and parents, featuring 102 simple tests to detect food adulterants, along with a companion guidebook.

     

             FOOD SAFETY-MAGIC BOX                                    FOOD SAFETY – DART BOOK

     

    • Mobile Testing: Deploys Food Safety on Wheels for remote-area testing & training.
    • Food Fortification: Promotes fortified staples to tackle micronutrient deficiencies.

    The Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a pivotal role in guiding public dietary choices and regulating food safety standards to combat obesity and lifestyle-related diseases.

    5.2 Nationwide Awareness Campaign – ‘Aaj Se Thoda Kam’
    To encourage healthier eating habits, FSSAI launched the ‘Aaj Se Thoda Kam’ campaign, urging consumers to gradually reduce their intake of fat, sugar, and salt. This multimedia campaign includes:

    • Short educational videos with subtitles in 12 languages to reach a diverse audience.
      1. Flyers, banners, and audio clips reinforcing the message of mindful eating.
      2. A dedicated ‘Eat Right India’ website, offering valuable resources for making informed dietary changes.

     

     

    5.3 Regulating High Fat, Salt, and Sugar (HFSS) Foods
    FSSAI, in collaboration with the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), has recommended mandatory labeling of High Fat, Salt, and Sugar (HFSS) foods. This initiative aims to:

    1. Ensure clear front-of-pack labeling on ready-to-eat foods.
    2. Help consumers make informed choices and moderate their intake of unhealthy foods.

    5.4 Multi-Platform Public Awareness Initiatives
    The Government, with FSSAI’s leadership, has been actively spreading awareness through:

    a. Print, electronic, and social media campaigns educating the public on healthier food choices.

    b. Integration with the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS), which supports state-level awareness activities on obesity prevention and healthy living.

    5.5 RUCO Initiative

    FSSAI’s RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil) initiative ensures that used cooking oil is not re-entered into the food chain but is safely repurposed. When oil is repeatedly used for frying, harmful Total Polar Compounds (TPC) form, increasing the risk of diseases like hypertension, atherosclerosis, and liver disorders. To protect public health, FSSAI has set a 25% TPC limit beyond which oil must not be used. Under the EEE Strategy (Education, Enforcement, Ecosystem), used cooking oil is collected by aggregators from food businesses and redirected for biodiesel or soap production, promoting health, energy security, and environmental sustainability.  

    Conclusion

     

    Obesity is a pressing public health challenge in India, but the nation is actively addressing it through a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India has launched strategic interventions integrating health, nutrition, fitness, and regulatory measures. Initiatives such as the Fit India Movement, NP-NCD, POSHAN Abhiyaan, Eat Right India, and Khelo India are fostering a culture of health consciousness, preventive care, and active living. As India moves towards Amrit Kaal, the vision of a Fit and Healthy India is becoming a reality. With sustained commitment, cross-sector collaboration, and active citizen participation, the country is well-positioned to reverse obesity trends and safeguard future generations. By prioritizing awareness, lifestyle changes, and policy-driven action, India can set a global example in tackling obesity—building a nation that thrives on wellness, vitality, and holistic well-being.

     

    References

    · https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2105618&reg=3&lang=1

    · https://www.who.int/health-topics/obesity#tab=tab_1

    · https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/fact-sheets/item/a-healthy-lifestyle—who-recommendations#:~:text=Note.,osteoarthritis%2C%20some%20cancers%20and%20diabetes.

    · https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1823047

    · https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/1712/AU3780.pdf?source=pqals – LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3780

    · https://ncdc.mohfw.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Obesity-English.pdf

    · https://mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/NP-NCD%20Operational%20Guidelines_0.pdf

    · https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1812388

    · https://sansad.in/getFile/annex/267/AU168_aJuwFy.pdf?source=pqars – RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 168

    · https://x.com/moayush/status/1771778688310210809/photo/1

    · https://www.mygov.in/campaigns/poshan-abhiyaan-2024/

    · https://x.com/PIBWCD/status/1702599507563946219

    · https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1910409

    · https://fitindia.gov.in/

    · https://fitindia.gov.in/fit-india-school-registration

    · https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2105644

    · https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2085581

    · https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2078544

    · https://x.com/kheloindia/header_photo

    · https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1740750

    · https://eatrightindia.gov.in/eri-initiatives.jsp

    · https://foodsafetystandard.in/eat-right-india/

    · https://eatrightindia.gov.in/eri-initiatives.jsp

    · https://foodsafetystandard.in/eat-right-india/

    · https://www.fssai.gov.in/book-details.php?bkid=363

    · https://www.fssai.gov.in/book-details.php?bkid=346

    · https://eatrightindia.gov.in/eatrightschool/assets/resource/file/fs_magicbox.pdf

    · https://eatrightindia.gov.in/EatRightIndia/images/gallery/books/aaj_se_thoda_kam.jpg

    · https://westregion.fssai.gov.in/RUCO.php

    · https://eatrightindia.gov.in/ruco/

    Click here to download PDF

    ******

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria / Vatsla Srivastava

    (Release ID: 2107179) Visitor Counter : 96

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Singapore ETO holds first Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam to promote closer relationship (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Singapore ETO holds first Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam to promote closer relationship (with photos)
    Singapore ETO holds first Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam to promote closer relationship (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore (Singapore ETO) hosted the first Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam at Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) yesterday (February 28), taking the opportunity to celebrate the new year and the Singapore ETO’s 30th anniversary with the rapidly growing Vietnamese partners and counterparts.           Jointly organised with the Hong Kong Business Association Vietnam (HKBAV), the dinner welcomed about 200 guests, including the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in HCMC, Mr Wei Huaxiang; the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Affairs in HCMC, Mr Tran Xuan Thuy; the Deputy Chief of Office of the People’s Committee of District 1 of HCMC, Mr Mac Hong Linh; the Chairman of the HKBAV, Mr Michael Chiu; the Director of Indochina of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Tina Phan; and representatives from government and business sectors, chambers of commerce, Hong Kong communities in Vietnam, etc.           Speaking at the dinner, the Director of the Singapore ETO, Mr Owin Fung, recapped the multi-front work and achievements of Hong Kong and Vietnam collaboration efforts. Last summer, the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, met with the then Vietnam President and the present General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Vietnam Central Committee, Mr To Lam, during his official visit to Hanoi and HCMC with a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region delegation. Meanwhile, the Permanent Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mr Nguyen Hoa Binh, visited Hong Kong last September to attend the Belt and Road Summit.           On business and trade relations, Mr Fung mentioned that Vietnam had become Hong Kong’s sixth-largest merchandise trading partner in 2024, with a total trade volume increasing by 26 per cent from 2023. With regard to foreign direct investment (FDI), Hong Kong investors have had a keen interest in the Vietnamese market for years. On an accumulated basis, Hong Kong is one of Vietnam’s top five largest FDI investors in areas such as manufacturing, real estate, retail, logistics, infrastructure, etc. In addition to other positive developments, as in tourism and education, the relations of the two places could reach a new level in the imminent future.           During the dinner, the Singapore ETO also introduced to guests the grand opening of Kai Tak Sports Park, the largest sports infrastructure project in Hong Kong history, in the evening of March 1. The cultural performances presented including lion dance, playing of Chinese and Vietnamese songs by a live band using traditional music instruments, and jamming of Cantonese and Vietnamese songs by a local singer.           Mr Fung concluded that Hong Kong has unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” arrangement, serving as a gateway between Mainland China and global markets, with the Greater Bay Area (GBA) as a key focus for collaboration. The Singapore ETO, celebrating its 30th anniversary, will continue to relentlessly enhance bilateral relations and provide help to enterprises and businesses to enter and expand in Hong Kong and take a proactive role to help enterprises and businesses in Hong Kong and the GBA go abroad. Vietnam and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations will certainly be a priority destination.

     
    Ends/Saturday, March 1, 2025Issued at HKT 10:50

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Consumer Data Right expansion to deliver a better deal for consumers

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    The Albanese Government is uplifting the Consumer Data Right (CDR) by expanding the system to non‑bank lending providers to deliver a better deal for more Australians.

    After extensive consultation and undertaking a strategic assessment of the way forward for CDR, the Albanese Government announced the CDR reset in August 2024. The intent of this reset was to address concerns around high compliance costs and the limited uptake of use cases by consumers.

    Through this reset, the Government is focusing on making improvements to the current framework to reduce unnecessary costs and enable high‑value use cases. The Albanese Government:

    • Has amended the CDR rules to streamline the consent process for consumers.
    • Is examining changes to the framework that could be made to reduce costs and facilitate high value use case.
    • Is exploring how the existing data sharing framework can better support high priority use cases such as consumer finance and lending, small business accounting services and energy switching.
    • Has written to the Data Standards Body setting out the Government’s expectations that future standards changes align with the Government’s direction for CDR.
    • Flagged an intention to move towards a ban of screen scraping.

    Today we announce another next step in the CDR reset, the expansion of CDR into non‑bank lending, commencing from mid‑2026.

    Today’s announced changes:

    • Expand the CDR to include non‑bank lending products, promoting greater competition and innovation in the market.
    • Remove the requirement for data holders to share consumer or product data for niche products such as asset finance, consumer leases, reverse mortgages, margin loans and foreign currency amounts.
    • Reduce the period of data to be held and shared from 7 years to 2 years, reducing costs associated with maintaining and responding to requests for historical data.
    • Ensure Buy Now, Pay Later products are covered by data sharing obligations.

    These changes ensure the CDR targets priority use cases, such as consumer finance and lending, without imposing unnecessary costs and regulatory burden on smaller lenders.

    The CDR enables Australian households and businesses to access their data held by their bank or electricity retailer through innovative new products that allows them to make informed choices, switch providers, and more easily apply for products and services.

    By unlocking the value of a consumer’s data, the CDR has the potential to be a transformational piece of economic reform for Australian consumers, delivering more choice and access to the best possible deals on a range of financial products tailored to a consumer’s individual need.

    The Government’s changes will open opportunities for consumers to use the CDR to find the best deals on more lending products. It will also address the cost burden of the CDR on the financial sector.

    The Government is working closely with stakeholders and will continue to expand the CDR in ways that foster innovation, whilst being purposeful and focussed on consumer benefit.

    The Albanese Government is getting on with the job of resetting of the CDR to ensure it delivers to its potential as an innovative piece of our economic infrastructure.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Lodging your NFP self-review return through a tax agent

    Source: Australian Department of Revenue

    Non-charitable not-for-profits (NFPs) with an active Australian business number (ABN) that self-assess as income tax exempt are due to lodge their 2023–24 self-review return by 31 March 2025.

    One of the ways to lodge an NFP self-review return is through your NFP’s registered tax agent.

    If you’re engaging a new tax agent or changing your tax agent to lodge your NFP self-review return, you must nominate them as your NFP’s tax agent.

    This is an added layer of protection to ensure you have control over who accesses your organisation’s information and performs tasks on your behalf. While this step must be completed by you, your tax agent can assist you through the process if you need help.

    How to nominate your agent

    Here is a breakdown of what is required to nominate your tax agent:

    1. Set up your digital ID, such as myID
    2. Link your digital ID to your NFPs ABN
    3. Log into Online services for businessExternal Link
    4. Nominate your authorised agent in Online services for business
    5. Let your agent know you have nominated them.

    Before you can complete steps 1 and 2, you must make sure you are the principal authorityExternal Link for your NFP. This is also known as the associate for your NFP.

    For more detail about these steps visit How to nominate your registered agent, which includes a downloadable PDF guide with screenshots. You can also see Agent nomination for more information.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: I’m a medical forensic examiner. Here’s what people can expect from a health response after a sexual assault

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mary Louise Stewart, Senior Career Medical Officer, Northern Sydney Local Health District; PhD Candidate, University of Sydney

    fizkes/Shutterstock

    An estimated one in five women and one in 16 men in Australia have experienced sexual violence.

    After such a traumatic experience, it’s understandable many are unsure if they want to report it to the police. In fact, less than 10% of Australian women who experience sexual assault ever make a police report.

    In Australia there is no time limit on reporting sexual assault to police. However, there are tight time frames for collecting forensic evidence, which can sometimes be an important part of the police investigation, whether it’s commenced at the time or later.

    This means the decision of whether or not to undergo a medical forensic examination needs to be made quite quickly after an assault.

    I work as a medical forensic examiner. Here’s what you can expect if you present for a medical forensic examination after a sexual assault.

    A team of specialists

    There are about 100 sexual assault services throughout Australia providing 24-hour care. As with other areas of health care, there are extra challenges in regional and rural areas, where there are often further distances to travel and staff shortages.

    Sexual assault services in Australia are free regardless of Medicare status. To find your nearest service you can call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Full Stop Australia (1800 385 578) who can also provide immediate telephone counselling support.

    It’s important to call the local sexual assault service before turning up. They can provide the victim-survivor with information and advice to prevent delays and make the process as helpful as possible.

    The consultation usually occurs in a hospital emergency department which has a designated forensic suite, or in a specialised forensic service.

    The victim-survivor is seen by a doctor or nurse trained in medical and forensic care. There’s a sexual assault counsellor, crisis worker or social worker present to support the patient and offer counselling advice. This is called an “integrated response” with medical and psychosocial staff working together.

    In most cases the victim-survivor can have their own support person present too.

    Depending on what the victim-survivor wants, the doctor or nurse will take a history of the assault to guide any medical care which may be needed (such as emergency contraception) and to guide the examination.

    Sexual assault services are always very aware of giving victim-survivors a choice about having a medical forensic examination. If a person presents to a sexual assault service, they can receive counselling and medical care without undergoing a forensic examination if they do not wish to.

    Sexual assault services are inclusive of all genders.

    Collecting forensic samples

    Samples collected during a medical forensic examination can sometimes identify the perpetrator’s DNA or intoxicating substances (alcohol or drugs that might be relevant to the investigation). The window of opportunity to collect these samples can be as short as 12 hours, or up to 5–7 days, depending on the nature of the sexual assault.

    In most of Australia, an adult who has experienced a recent sexual assault can be offered a medical forensic examination without making a report to police.

    Depending on the state or territory, the forensic samples can usually be stored for 3 to 12 months (up to 100 years in Tasmania). This allows the victim-survivor time to decide if they want to release them to police for processing.

    The doctor or nurse will collect the samples using a sexual assault investigation kit, or a “rape kit”.

    Collecting these samples might involve taking swabs to try to detect DNA from external and internal genital areas and anywhere there may have been DNA transfer. This can be from skin cells, where the perpetrator touched the victim-survivor, or from bodily fluids including semen or saliva.

    The doctor or nurse carrying out the examination do their best to minimise re-traumatisation, by providing the victim-survivor information, choices and control at every step of the process.

    The victim-survivor can usually have a support person with them.
    Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock

    How about STIs and pregnancy?

    During the consultation, the doctor or nurse will address any concerns about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy, if applicable.

    In most cases the risk of STIs is small. But follow-up testing at 1–2 weeks for infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea, and at 6–12 weeks for infections such as syphilis and HIV, is usually recommended.

    Emergency contraception (sometimes called the “morning after pill”) can be provided to prevent pregnancy. It can be taken up to five days after sexual assault (but the sooner the better) with follow-up pregnancy testing recommended at 2–3 weeks.

    Things have improved over time

    When I was a junior doctor in the late 90s, taking forensic swabs was usually the responsibility of the busy obstetrics and gynaecology trainee in the emergency department, who was often managing multiple patients and had little training in forensics. There was also usually no supportive counsellor.

    Anecdotally, both the doctor and the patient were traumatised by this experience. Research shows that when specialised, integrated services are not provided, victim-survivors’ feelings of powerlessness are magnified.

    But the way we carry out medical forensic examinations after sexual assault in Australia has improved over the years.

    With patient-centred practices, and designated forensic and counselling staff, the experience for the patient is thought to be empowering rather than re-traumatising.

    Our research

    In new research published in the Australian Journal of General Practice, my colleagues and I explored the experience of the medical forensic examination from the victim-survivor’s perspective.

    We surveyed 291 patients presenting to a sexual assault service in New South Wales (where I work) over four years.

    Some 75% of patients reported the examination was reassuring and another 20% reported it was OK. Only 2% reported that it was traumatising. The majority (98%) said they would recommend a friend present to a sexual assault service if they were in a similar situation.

    While patients spoke positively about the care they received, many commented that the sexual assault service was not visible enough. They didn’t know how to find it or even that it existed.

    We know many victim-survivors don’t present to a sexual assault service or undergo a medical forensic examination after a sexual assault. So we need to do more to increase the visibility of these services.

    The National Sexual Assault, Family and Domestic Violence Counselling Line – 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) – is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for any Australian who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

    Mary Louise Stewart receives funding from the Ramsay Research and Education Grant and from the University of Sydney via the Postgraduate Research Support Scheme. Mary Louise Stewart works as a medical forensic examiner where her research is being undertaken.

    – ref. I’m a medical forensic examiner. Here’s what people can expect from a health response after a sexual assault – https://theconversation.com/im-a-medical-forensic-examiner-heres-what-people-can-expect-from-a-health-response-after-a-sexual-assault-244404

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amendment to Duties to Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs across our Northern Border

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, I hereby determine and order:
    Section 1.  Amendment.  Executive Order 14193 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties to Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs Across Our Northern Border), as amended by Executive Order 14197 of February 3, 2025 (Progress on the Situation at Our Northern Border), is further amended by revising section 2(h) to read as follows:
    “(h)  Duty-free de minimis treatment under 19 U.S.C. 1321 is available for otherwise eligible covered articles described in subsection (a) and subsection
    (b) of this section.  Such duty free de minimis treatment shall cease to be available for such otherwise eligible covered articles upon notification by the Secretary of Commerce to the President that adequate systems are in place to fully and expeditiously process and collect tariff revenue applicable pursuant to subsection (a) and subsection (b) of this section for covered articles otherwise eligible for de minimis treatment.”
    Sec. 2.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    THE WHITE HOUSE,    March 2, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amendment to Duties to Address the Situation at our Southern Border

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, I hereby determine and order:
    Section 1.  Amendment.  Executive Order 14194 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties to Address the Situation at Our Southern Border), as amended by Executive Order 14198 of February 3, 2025 (Progress on the Situation at Our Southern Border), is further amended by revising section 2(g) to read as follows:
    “(g)  Duty-free de minimis treatment under 19 U.S.C. 1321 is available for otherwise eligible covered articles described in subsection (a) of this section.  Such duty-free de minimis treatment shall cease to be available for such otherwise eligible covered articles upon notification by the Secretary of Commerce to the President that adequate systems are in place to fully and expeditiously process and collect tariff revenue applicable pursuant to subsection (a) of this section for covered articles otherwise eligible for de minimis treatment.”
    Sec. 2.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    THE WHITE HOUSE,    March 2, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong accelerates integration into national development

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Second Agreement Concerning Amendment to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) Agreement on Trade in Services (agreement II) was implemented on Saturday, allowing Hong Kong to accelerate its integration into the overall national development.

    The agreement II further opens up the services market of the Chinese mainland to Hong Kong, enabling Hong Kong businesses and professionals to enter the mainland market with more preferential treatments.

    This move was welcomed by various sectors in Hong Kong, and the industry is looking forward to making good use of the Central Government’s policies to support Hong Kong and promote high-quality economic development, further integrating into the national development.

    The agreement II introduces new liberalization measures across a number of service sectors where Hong Kong enjoys competitive advantages, such as financial services, construction and related engineering services, testing and certification, telecommunications, motion pictures, television and tourism services.

    The liberalization measures take various forms, including removing or relaxing restrictions on equity shareholding and business scope in the establishment of enterprises; relaxing qualification requirements for Hong Kong professionals providing services; and easing restrictions on Hong Kong’s exports of services to the mainland market.

    Most of the liberalization measures apply to the whole mainland, while some of them are designated for pilot implementation in the nine Pearl River Delta municipalities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    Paul Chan, financial secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, said earlier that according to the agreement II, the restriction for the mainland branches of Hong Kong banks to conduct bank card business will be lifted starting from March, which will facilitate them in expanding their businesses in the mainland.

    Tommy Tam, chairman of the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, said that the new measures are expected to attract more foreign tourists to enter Hong Kong to explore the city and travel further to the mainland. The industry is preparing to promote these arrangements and believes that the demand from ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) tourists is relatively large.

    Law Society of Hong Kong President Roden Tong Man-lung said that this is very good news for the entire Hong Kong legal sector. The legal industry hoped to seize the opportunity to expand their business.

    By the end of last year, the cumulative customs duty concessions under CEPA had exceeded 10.2 billion yuan (about 1.39 billion U.S. dollars). Last year, the total trade in goods between the mainland and Hong Kong exceeded 4.8 trillion Hong Kong dollars (about 613.92 billion U.S. dollars), more than three times the amount before the implementation of CEPA, with an average annual growth rate of 5.6 percent.

    The number of sectors in which the mainland has fully or partially opened up to Hong Kong’s service industry has increased to 153, accounting for 96 percent of all 160 service trade sectors.

    The agreement II also brings along institutional innovation and collaboration enhancements. It includes the addition of “allowing Hong Kong-invested enterprises to adopt Hong Kong law” and “allowing Hong Kong-invested enterprises to choose for arbitration to be seated in Hong Kong” as facilitation measures for Hong Kong investors; and removal of the period requirement on Hong Kong service suppliers to engage in substantive business operations in Hong Kong for three years in most service sectors.

    Paul Lam, secretary for justice of the HKSAR government, said on the social media that qualified Hong Kong-invested enterprises can choose to use Hong Kong law as the governing law for their contracts. He encouraged the business community to take full advantage of this new opportunity.

    Jonathan Choi, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and chairman of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce of Hong Kong, recently pointed out that the agreement II covers multiple important system innovations, not only providing convenience for Hong Kong businesses entering the mainland market, but also offering broader legal service options for investors in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    It encourages more foreign investors to use Hong Kong as a springboard to invest in the Greater Bay Area, further consolidating Hong Kong’s role as a “super-connector” and “super value-adder”, Choi said.

    The mainland and Hong Kong signed CEPA in 2003. CEPA has now been upgraded to a comprehensive and modern free trade agreement and has brought significant economic benefits to Hong Kong.

    Since the implementation of CEPA, all products manufactured in Hong Kong that meet CEPA’s rules of origin can enjoy zero-tariff benefits when exported to the mainland. In addition, in terms of trade in services, the mainland and Hong Kong have essentially achieved trade liberalization.

    John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR, mentioned on multiple occasions that the agreement II creates more favorable conditions for Hong Kong enterprises and professionals to enter the mainland market. He encouraged Hong Kong and global enterprises to make full use of the new preferential treatments under CEPA, to explore the continuous opportunities in the mainland market.

    On Feb. 19, the HKSAR government and the country’s Ministry of Commerce co-organized a forum on the agreement II to familiarize business sectors with the content and implementation arrangements of the relevant measures.

    Over 350 people, including representatives from local and foreign chambers of commerce, consulates, major trade associations and professional sectors, participated in the forum.

    Fan Shijie, director of the Department of Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao Affairs under the Ministry of Commerce, said that through CEPA, the Central Government aims to strengthen open cooperation, supporting Hong Kong and global investors in their efforts to enter the mainland via Hong Kong.

    The Central Government also supports more Hong Kong enterprises in participating in major exhibitions such as the China International Import Expo, the Canton Fair, and the China International Fair for Trade in Services, providing matchmaking services for Hong Kong businesses to tap into the mainland market and share development opportunities, Fan added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Critical minerals and hydrogen production incentives now law

    Source: Australian Department of Revenue

    As part of the 2024–25 Budget, the Government announced its Future Made in Australia package to support Australia’s transition to a net zero economy. This package included 2 new, temporary tax incentives:

    These measures are now law.

    Critical Minerals Production Tax Incentive

    The CMPTI provides eligible companies with a refundable tax offset of 10 per cent of the eligible costs of processing certain critical minerals in Australia. The offset will be available for a maximum of 10 years between 1 July 2027 and 30 June 2040.

    The CMPTI is jointly administered by the ATO and the Department of Industry, Science and Resources.

    Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive

    The HPTI is a refundable tax offset of $2 per kilogram of eligible hydrogen produced by eligible companies. The HPTI applies to eligible hydrogen produced in income years between 1 July 2027 and 30 June 2040, for a maximum of 10 years.

    The HPTI is jointly administered by the ATO and the Clean Energy Regulator.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong accelerates integration into national development as CEPA enters new stage

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

    Hong Kong accelerates integration into national development as CEPA enters new stage

    HONG KONG, March 2 — The Second Agreement Concerning Amendment to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) Agreement on Trade in Services (agreement II) was implemented on Saturday, allowing Hong Kong to accelerate its integration into the overall national development.

    The agreement II further opens up the services market of the Chinese mainland to Hong Kong, enabling Hong Kong businesses and professionals to enter the mainland market with more preferential treatments.

    This move was welcomed by various sectors in Hong Kong, and the industry is looking forward to making good use of the Central Government’s policies to support Hong Kong and promote high-quality economic development, further integrating into the national development.

    The agreement II introduces new liberalization measures across a number of service sectors where Hong Kong enjoys competitive advantages, such as financial services, construction and related engineering services, testing and certification, telecommunications, motion pictures, television and tourism services.

    The liberalization measures take various forms, including removing or relaxing restrictions on equity shareholding and business scope in the establishment of enterprises; relaxing qualification requirements for Hong Kong professionals providing services; and easing restrictions on Hong Kong’s exports of services to the mainland market.

    Most of the liberalization measures apply to the whole mainland, while some of them are designated for pilot implementation in the nine Pearl River Delta municipalities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    Paul Chan, financial secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, said earlier that according to the agreement II, the restriction for the mainland branches of Hong Kong banks to conduct bank card business will be lifted starting from March, which will facilitate them in expanding their businesses in the mainland.

    Tommy Tam, chairman of the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, said that the new measures are expected to attract more foreign tourists to enter Hong Kong to explore the city and travel further to the mainland. The industry is preparing to promote these arrangements and believes that the demand from ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) tourists is relatively large.

    Law Society of Hong Kong President Roden Tong Man-lung said that this is very good news for the entire Hong Kong legal sector. The legal industry hoped to seize the opportunity to expand their business.

    By the end of last year, the cumulative customs duty concessions under CEPA had exceeded 10.2 billion yuan (about 1.39 billion U.S. dollars). Last year, the total trade in goods between the mainland and Hong Kong exceeded 4.8 trillion Hong Kong dollars (about 613.92 billion U.S. dollars), more than three times the amount before the implementation of CEPA, with an average annual growth rate of 5.6 percent.

    The number of sectors in which the mainland has fully or partially opened up to Hong Kong’s service industry has increased to 153, accounting for 96 percent of all 160 service trade sectors.

    The agreement II also brings along institutional innovation and collaboration enhancements. It includes the addition of “allowing Hong Kong-invested enterprises to adopt Hong Kong law” and “allowing Hong Kong-invested enterprises to choose for arbitration to be seated in Hong Kong” as facilitation measures for Hong Kong investors; and removal of the period requirement on Hong Kong service suppliers to engage in substantive business operations in Hong Kong for three years in most service sectors.

    Paul Lam, secretary for justice of the HKSAR government, said on the social media that qualified Hong Kong-invested enterprises can choose to use Hong Kong law as the governing law for their contracts. He encouraged the business community to take full advantage of this new opportunity.

    Jonathan Choi, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and chairman of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce of Hong Kong, recently pointed out that the agreement II covers multiple important system innovations, not only providing convenience for Hong Kong businesses entering the mainland market, but also offering broader legal service options for investors in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    It encourages more foreign investors to use Hong Kong as a springboard to invest in the Greater Bay Area, further consolidating Hong Kong’s role as a “super-connector” and “super value-adder”, Choi said.

    The mainland and Hong Kong signed CEPA in 2003. CEPA has now been upgraded to a comprehensive and modern free trade agreement and has brought significant economic benefits to Hong Kong.

    Since the implementation of CEPA, all products manufactured in Hong Kong that meet CEPA’s rules of origin can enjoy zero-tariff benefits when exported to the mainland. In addition, in terms of trade in services, the mainland and Hong Kong have essentially achieved trade liberalization.

    John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR, mentioned on multiple occasions that the agreement II creates more favorable conditions for Hong Kong enterprises and professionals to enter the mainland market. He encouraged Hong Kong and global enterprises to make full use of the new preferential treatments under CEPA, to explore the continuous opportunities in the mainland market.

    On Feb. 19, the HKSAR government and the country’s Ministry of Commerce co-organized a forum on the agreement II to familiarize business sectors with the content and implementation arrangements of the relevant measures.

    Over 350 people, including representatives from local and foreign chambers of commerce, consulates, major trade associations and professional sectors, participated in the forum.

    Fan Shijie, director of the Department of Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao Affairs under the Ministry of Commerce, said that through CEPA, the Central Government aims to strengthen open cooperation, supporting Hong Kong and global investors in their efforts to enter the mainland via Hong Kong.

    The Central Government also supports more Hong Kong enterprises in participating in major exhibitions such as the China International Import Expo, the Canton Fair, and the China International Fair for Trade in Services, providing matchmaking services for Hong Kong businesses to tap into the mainland market and share development opportunities, Fan added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China signals stronger financial support for private enterprises

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

    China’s central bank, together with other top financial regulators, convened a high-level symposium on Friday to discuss measures for boosting private enterprise development, which analysts said signaled bigger steps in facilitating the financing of private enterprises as their role in innovation becomes increasingly significant.

    Jointly convened by the People’s Bank of China, All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, National Financial Regulatory Administration, China Securities Regulatory Commission and State Administration of Foreign Exchange, the symposium stressed supporting private businesses as an inherent priority for financial services and a manifestation of upholding the political and people-centered nature of financial work.

    “We will proactively strengthen policy frameworks, enhance supervision and implementation and provide strong financial support for the healthy development of the private economy, helping private enterprises grow stronger, better and bigger,” said a meeting statement released by the PBOC on Sunday.

    Analysts said it is not the first time for the PBOC to convene symposiums on supporting private enterprises, with similar meetings in 2018 and 2023. However, Friday’s meeting features a wide participation by various financial authorities, indicating that all-out, coordinated efforts to strengthen financial support for private enterprises are underway.

    “The joint meeting reflects the central government’s strong commitment to fostering private sector growth,” said Yang Weiyong, an associate professor at the University of International Business and Economics, expecting significant financial measures, including expanded lending for private enterprises.

    The meeting called for a solid implementation of an accommodative monetary policy, a good use of structural monetary policy tools, increased credit access for private and small businesses and equal treatment of all ownership types by financial institutions.

    Specific measures stressed at the symposium include a full implementation a previously-launched 25-point plan to strengthen financial support for the private economy, improvements to credit enhancement systems for smaller businesses and accelerated rollout of supply chain finance regulations.

    The meeting also emphasized strengthening bond market innovation, reaffirming boosting private enterprise financing through capital markets, including support for tech-driven firms, mergers and acquisitions and industrial upgrades.

    Attendants of the meeting also included leaders from fashion and apparel company EVE Group, automotive company Geely Holding Group, artificial intelligence company SenseTime, express delivery company YTO Express and dairy company Yili Group.

    Lou Feipeng, a researcher at Postal Savings Bank of China, emphasized the need for stronger financial support for the private sector, particularly as the latest wave of technological revolution continues to advance.

    “Private and small businesses, known for their flexible structures, play a crucial role in driving technological innovation,” Lou said.

    In terms of direct financing, eligible private enterprises should be supported in raising funds through bond issuance and IPOs, he said. On the indirect financing front, banks should improve first-time loan services for private bushiness, expand access to credit-based lending, implement loan renewals without principal repayment and develop supply chain finance.

    Data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed on Saturday that the purchasing managers index for the manufacturing sector — where private enterprises play a significant role — came in at 50.2, standing above the 50-mark that separates expansion from contraction and up from 49.1 in January.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Launch of Greater Bendigo’s Cultural Diversity Month Celebrations

    Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

    A month-long celebration of Greater Bendigo’s cultural diversity will kick off at a free Cultural Diversity Celebrations launch featuring multicultural food, dance, music and a panel discussion on Multicultural Women in Business to mark International Women’s Day at 11am Thursday March 6, in the Hargreaves Mall.

    Each year in March, Australia marks National Harmony Day (March 21) which coincides with the United Nation’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

    City of Greater Bendigo Community Partnerships Manager Andie West said the City takes this opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of Greater Bendigo’s multicultural communities and the significant contributions they make to the social and economic fabric of our society.

    “During March many local cultural groups are hosting festivals, events and activities in Greater Bendigo,” Ms West said.

    “Celebrations like this are an important part of the City’s commitment to cultural diversity and inclusion and to being a welcoming and inclusive City and local residents are encouraged to take advantage of all the culturally diverse activities taking place throughout March.

    “Celebrating our differences, as well as our common interests, helps unite and educate us to understand other’s perspectives, to broaden our own, and to fully experience and educate ourselves.”

    Some of the activities taking place include the Holi – Festival of Colours at Golden Square Swimming Pool and the Festival of Friendships at the Dahlia and Arts Festival on Saturday March 15 and the Bendigo Latin Festival at Garden for the Future on March 22.

    There is also multicultural storytime sessions, a local sacred sites tour, Interfaith Forum, Faith Exhibition and more.

    To view the program of events that details everything on offer during the month, please visit:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – RBNZ Stats Alert Business Expectations Survey: Concluding development update ahead of regular publication

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    3 March 2025 – We would like to thank all the businesses taking part in the development of the new Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey as we build a representative sample survey of New Zealand businesses.

    Following a successful development phase, we plan to commence ongoing quarterly publication in mid-May 2025 (for the June quarter) in advance of the 28 May Monetary Policy Statement, in line with the timing of our other expectation surveys.

    This new survey includes several hundred businesses from different sectors around the country, from small to large firms. It is separate from the existing Survey of Expectations including expert forecasters and economists, and industry leaders (Table M14, 1987 – onwards), which will continue.

    Business Expectations Survey, final testing:

    We completed our development of Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey with a fourth pilot survey in January 2025. The testing phase has allowed us to test the survey methodology over multiple waves, build the sample size over time, and creates a one-year span of quarterly data. A public consultation on the survey was undertaken during March 2024.

    Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey: Concluding development update outlines our lessons learnt from the latest testing activities and resulting design decisions.

    The achieved sample size has built to 389 responding businesses in pilot 4 (383 in pilot 3, 251 in pilot 2 and 68 in pilot 1).
    We maintained consistent design decisions and survey weighting methods from pilot 3. Additional data analysis, using pilot 4 data, provides confidence that these choices are suitable for a high-quality ongoing survey. (ref. https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=1c3701d2d8&e=f3c68946f8 )

    While the pilot survey results are experimental, the new series are already demonstrating the value of a large representative sample survey. For example, by facilitating estimates of expectations broken down by business size and industry. It should be noted that while this survey represents a significant uplift in our expectations data, more observations are needed to enable us to estimate the relationship between these data and ultimate inflation outcomes.

    Background information

    Inflation expectations are important because households and businesses reflect their expectations in their price- and wage-setting decisions. Improving the quality of our expectation surveys is part of the wider response to our 2022 review of how we formulate and implement our monetary policy. In this review, we identified several areas where better data could support high quality monetary policy decision-making.

    For further information please see Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey: Survey design and development: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=84645fcafe&e=f3c68946f8

    For the latest Monetary Policy Statement see Monetary Policy Statement February 2025: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=81002ac320&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: SUNDAY SHOWS: Trump Administration Fighting for America First

    Source: The White House

    This morning, the Trump Administration was out in force across the TV networks as they updated the American people on President Trump’s agenda.

    Here’s what you missed:

    Secretary of State Marco Rubio on ABC This Week

    • On negotiations to end the war in Ukraine: “The sooner everyone grows up around here and figures out that this is a bad war that’s heading in a bad direction… the more progress we’re going to be able to make. But the president is crystal clear… he is going to be a president that tries to achieve peace.”
    • On President Trump’s desire for peace: “Shouldn’t we all be happy that we have a president who’s trying to stop wars and prevent them instead of start them? And I just don’t get it. I really don’t, other than the fact that it’s Donald J. Trump. If this was a Democrat that was doing this, everyone would be saying, well, he’s on his way to the Nobel Peace Prize. This is absurd. We are trying to end a war. You cannot end a war unless both sides come to the table, starting with the Russians. And – and that – that is the point the president has made.”

    National Security Advisor Mike Waltz on State of the Union

    Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on Sunday Morning Futures

    Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard on Fox News Sunday

    • On the danger of continuing the war in Ukraine: “The longer this goes on, not only are more Ukrainians losing their lives, but it increases the potential of this escalation towards World War III … That’s not a cost that President Trump is willing to accept.”

    Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent on Face the Nation

    • On rebuilding the economy: “President Trump’s been in office five weeks… interest rates — the 10-year bond… have been down every week since President Trump was President. Mortgage rates have been down every week. So, that’s a pretty good start.”

    Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Media Buzz

    • On cameras being able to witness President Trump’s Oval Office meeting with Ukraine: “President Trump is the most transparent president in history. And as he said, it was great for the cameras to be in there because the American people — and the world — were able to see what the president and his team have seen behind the scenes in negotiating with President Zelenskyy’s team. They have continually denied the pragmatic reality of where their country stands today.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mar 02, 2025 Capital Area Transit System Workers to Strike Tomorrow, Monday, March 3

    Source: US Amalgamated Transit Union

    Union Frustrated over CATS imposing Final Contract Offer, Serious Safety Issues, and Other Concerns

    Baton Rouge, LA – After months of stalled negotiations, frustrated Capital Area Transit System (CATS) workers, members of ATU Local 1546-Baton Rouge, LA., are set to go on strike on Monday, March 3 at 3AM after CATS imposed its final contract offer and refuses to address serious safety concerns.

    In hopes of avoiding a strike, the Union and CATS management met earlier this week. After the Union set a deadline to meet again on Thursday, CATS CEO Theo Richards never came back to the table, leading to the Union to decide to strike.

    “CATS has left us with no other choice but to walk off the job. We want the citizens of Baton Rouge to know we did not want to strike. We hope they stand with us. Our frontline bus operators who keep our city moving have been ignored for far too long by CATS management,” said Local President/Business Agent George DeCuir. “We have been willing to sit down and get a deal done. But it has become clear CATS has no interest in giving our members a fair contract and our riders the transit system that they deserve.”

    At the end of January, CATS refused to negotiate with the Union and instead implemented its own contract offer without Union approval, increasing tensions between the two sides. The contract failed to address the Union’s key concerns and made changes to disciplinary, grievance and overtime policies without input from the Union. Earlier in January, after CATS had gone back on their promises during ongoing negotiations, the almost 100 workers overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike if necessary.

    “Our Union only uses a full strike as a last resort since we don’t want to abandon our riders who depend on us. But CATS has left us with no other option,” said ATU International President John Costa. “This isn’t just about a contract, it’s about ensuring a safe and reliable transit system. Public transit should not be treated like an afterthought. For the sake of our riders and community, it’s time for CATS management to come back to the table immediately to get a fair deal done for these frontline workers. But rest assured our members will stand together in solidarity until we win.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why bike lanes should remain on Ontario’s roads

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mahtot Gebresselassie, Assistant Professor, Environmental and Urban Change, York University, Canada

    In late 2024, the Ontario legislature passed Bill 212 giving the provincial government significant control over municipal bike lanes. The law requires municipalities to ask the province for its approval to install bike lanes if they would remove a lane for other vehicular traffic. The legislation also allows for the removal of three major bike lanes in Toronto.

    Supporters of such moves argue that bike lanes worsen traffic congestion, negatively impact local businesses and delay emergency vehicles from getting where they need to go. However, research shows that bike lanes improve transportation infrastructure, including preventing injuries.

    One of the main values of bike lanes is that they promote safety for all road users. Many cities around the world install bike lanes to wholly or partially separate cyclists from larger vehicles. This separation limits the interaction with cars and makes cycling safer.

    Bike lanes can also be more efficient at moving more people per unit width of the road compared to car lanes. They are also much more inexpensive to build than roads for cars. Protected bike lanes cost an average of a few hundred thousand per mile compared to vehicular roads in millions of dollars per lane mile.

    Reduced injuries

    Bicycles are classified as vehicles under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, and cyclists are rightful users of all roads except controlled access highways.

    When people cycle on infrastructure that supports biking (bike lanes, cycle tracks, low-speed zones, etc.), the risk of injury is reduced significantly. Bike lanes increase the visibility of cyclists to motorists and reduce interaction between cars and bikes.

    A 2016 paper that looked at data on bike networks and injuries in 10 Canadian and U.S. cities between 2000 and 2015 showed that an increase in bike networks led to a decrease in fatal and serious injuries.

    The safety associated with bike lanes can also encourage more people to take up cycling. A 2020 poll from the Canadian Automobile Association indicates that 40 per cent of Canadians reported they would feel encouraged to cycle on bike lanes physically separated from other vehicles.

    More inclusive roads

    Bike lanes can make cycling more inclusive for women, children, older adults, people with disabilities and those with limited transportation options.

    For them, bike lanes can bridge the equity gap and affirm cycling as something “inherently democratic, inclusive, and affordable.”

    Fewer women bike compared to men. A 2014 study that surveyed cyclists in five U.S. cities found that more women than men strongly agreed that protected bike lanes made them feel safe and new ones increased how often they cycled.

    Child cyclists benefit a great deal from bike lanes. They are often smaller and less visible to people driving cars. They are also less able to assess risk and navigate shared roads, so a separate lane can reduce those risks.

    Older adults and people with disabilities also benefit from bike lanes, as they provide a more suitable cycling environment for riding with limited physical acuity and slower speeds.

    Low-income and racialized people are significant bike users and are more likely to rely on biking to get around due to their limited access to transportation options. Yet, without bike lanes, they may have no choice but to risk cycling in a dangerous environment. For them, bike lanes are crucial infrastructure.

    Cycling is also much cheaper than having a car. Cycling costs about $0.06/km and driving a car $0.58/km, and switching from driving to cycling can reduce transportation spending from 30 per cent to 10 per cent of household income.

    Consumer spending and congestion

    Some argue that bike lanes reduce street parking, which can lead to lower economic activity. However, a 2012 study showed that people who cycle, walk and use transit frequent local businesses more and spend the same or more than those who use private cars.

    In Toronto, when bike lanes were installed on Bloor Street West, there was an average increase in monthly consumer spending from $186 to $245. A similar trend was observed in New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Bern, Dublin and Copenhagen.

    When it comes to congestion, a 2018 study on the impact of installing bike lanes on arterial roads in Toronto found that the most affected street segments would only result in an estimated one-minute delay.

    A 2022 study from Melbourne showed a minor effect on traffic when bike lanes were added to residential streets with low speed limits. It also found the “selective inclusion” of safe cycling lanes, in the worst cases, leads to a delay of less than 10 seconds per kilometre for drivers.

    In New York, a 2016 study found that adding bike lanes reduced the average time for car travel on major thoroughfares from an average of 4.5 minutes to 3 minutes.

    Examples from elsewhere indicate that removing bike lanes would not bode well for Toronto. A well-used bike lane in London, England was removed in December 2020 following residents’ complaints that they caused traffic congestion. A study found that the removal resulted in longer travel time on the street compounded by cars illegally parking in the space previously reserved for the bike lane.

    Emergency response

    Immediately after the bike lanes were installed on Toronto’s Bloor Street West, paramedics response time within 500 metres of the bike lane corridor rose by 42 seconds compared to 45 seconds city-wide.

    Toronto Fire Services (TFS) response time increased by 30 seconds within the same corridor compared to a two-second increase for the entire city. However, these evaluations were for two months in 2023. In October 2024, TFS Chief Jim Jessop said the Bloor Street West bike lanes did not lead to an increase in response time.

    If these bike lanes are removed and replaced with others elsewhere, it could create a poorly connected bike network. The safety and convenience associated with connected bike networks will be lost as a result.

    Based on what research tells us, Toronto’s bike lanes should stay. Bike lanes provide various benefits, including making our streets more inclusive of more people.

    Bike lanes offer safety on the roads by reducing the risk of fatal or non-life-threatening injuries on roads, and are a tremendous gain for transportation infrastructure.

    Even in cases where a bike lane causes a few seconds of delay, politicians and city planners must consider the trade-off — especially if it means saving a person’s life.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Why bike lanes should remain on Ontario’s roads – https://theconversation.com/why-bike-lanes-should-remain-on-ontarios-roads-249150

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Purpose.  The production of timber, lumber, paper, bioenergy, and other wood products (timber production) is critical to our Nation’s well-being.  Timber production is essential for crucial human activities like construction and energy production.  Furthermore, as recent disasters demonstrate, forest management and wildfire risk reduction projects can save American lives and communities.

    The United States has an abundance of timber resources that are more than adequate to meet our domestic timber production needs, but heavy-handed Federal policies have prevented full utilization of these resources and made us reliant on foreign producers.  Our inability to fully exploit our domestic timber supply has impeded the creation of jobs and prosperity, contributed to wildfire disasters, degraded fish and wildlife habitats, increased the cost of construction and energy, and threatened our economic security.  These onerous Federal policies have forced our Nation to rely upon imported lumber, thus exporting jobs and prosperity and compromising our self-reliance.  It is vital that we reverse these policies and increase domestic timber production to protect our national and economic security.

    Sec. 2.  Directives to the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture. 

    (a)  Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture, through the Director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Chief of the United States Forest Service (USFS), respectively, shall each issue new or updated guidance regarding tools to facilitate increased timber production and sound forest management, reduce time to deliver timber, and decrease timber supply uncertainty, such as the Good Neighbor Authority described in 16 U.S.C. 2113a, stewardship contracting pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 6591c, and agreements or contracts with Indian tribes under the Tribal Forest Protection Act as contemplated by 25 U.S.C. 3115a.  The Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall also each submit to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget any legislative proposals that would expand authorities to improve timber production and sound forest management.
         

    (b)  Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior, through the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the Secretary of Commerce, through the Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, shall complete a strategy on USFS and BLM forest management projects under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) (16 U.S.C. 1536) to improve the speed of approving forestry projects.  The Secretary of the Interior, through the Director of the FWS, shall also examine any applicable existing authorities that would permit executive departments and agencies (agencies) to delegate consultation requirements under section 7 of the ESA to other agencies and, if necessary, provide a legislative proposal to ensure consultation is streamlined.
         

    (c)  Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall together submit to the President, through the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, a plan that sets a target for the annual amount of timber per year to be offered for sale over the next 4 years from Federal lands managed by the BLM and the USFS, measured in millions of board feet.
         

    (d)  Within 120 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior, through the Directors of the FWS and the BLM, and the Secretary of Agriculture, through the Chief of the USFS, shall complete the Whitebark Pine Rangewide Programmatic Consultation under section 7 of the ESA.
         

    (e)  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall consider and, if appropriate and consistent with applicable law, adopt categorical exclusions administratively established by other agencies to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act and reduce unnecessarily lengthy processes and associated costs related to administrative approvals for timber production, forest management, and wildfire risk reduction treatments.
         

    (f)  Within 280 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior shall consider and, if appropriate and consistent with applicable law, establish a new categorical exclusion for timber thinning and re-establish a categorical exclusion for timber salvage activities.  

    Sec. 3.  Streamlined Permitting.  All relevant agencies shall eliminate, to the maximum extent permissible by law, all undue delays within their respective permitting processes related to timber production.  Additionally, all relevant agencies shall take all necessary and appropriate steps consistent with applicable law to suspend, revise, or rescind all existing regulations, orders, guidance documents, policies, settlements, consent orders, and other agency actions that impose an undue burden on timber production.

    Sec. 4.  Endangered Species Committee.  (a)  Agencies are directed to use, to the maximum extent permissible under applicable law, the ESA regulations on consultations in emergencies to facilitate the Nation’s timber production.  The Secretary of the Interior, as Chairman of the Endangered Species Committee, shall ensure a prompt and efficient review of all submissions to such committee, to include identification of any legal deficiencies, in order to ensure the timely consideration of exemption applications and, where possible, to resolve such applications before the deadlines set by the ESA.  

    (b)  Federal members of the Endangered Species Committee, or their designees, shall coordinate to develop and submit a report to the President, through the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, that identifies obstacles to domestic timber production infrastructure specifically deriving from implementation of the ESA and recommends procedural, regulatory, and interagency improvements.

    (c)  The Secretary of the Interior shall ensure that the Director of the FWS, or the Director’s authorized representative, is available to consult promptly with agencies and to take other appropriate action concerning the applicability of the ESA’s emergency regulations.  The Secretary of Commerce shall ensure that the Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, or the Assistant Administrator’s authorized representative, is available for such consultation and to take such other action as may assist in applying the ESA’s emergency regulations.

    Sec. 5.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

    THE WHITE HOUSE
        March 1, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Addressing the Threat to National Security from Imports of Timber, Lumber

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862) (Trade Expansion Act), it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Policy.  The wood products industry, composed of timber, lumber, and their derivative products (such as paper products, furniture, and cabinetry) is a critical manufacturing industry essential to the national security, economic strength, and industrial resilience of the United States.  This industry plays a vital role in key downstream civilian industries, including construction.

    The United States faces significant vulnerabilities in the wood supply chain from imported timber, lumber, and their derivative products being dumped onto the United States market.

    The United States has ample timber resources.  The current United States softwood lumber industry has the practical production capacity to supply 95 percent of the United States’ 2024 softwood consumption.  Yet, since 2016 the United States has been a net importer of lumber.

    Wood products are a key input used by both the civilian construction industry and the military.  Each year, the United States military spends over 10 billion dollars on construction.  The military also invests in innovative building material technology, including processes to create innovative wood products such as cross-laminated timber.  The procurement of these building materials depends on a strong domestic lumber industry and a manufacturing base capable of meeting both military-specific and wider civilian needs.

    It is the policy of the United States to ensure reliable, secure, and resilient domestic supply chains of timber, lumber, and their derivative products.  Unfair subsidies and foreign government support for foreign timber, lumber, and their derivative products necessitate action under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act to determine whether imports of these products threaten to impair national security.

    Sec. 2.  Investigation.  (a)  The Secretary of Commerce shall initiate an investigation under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act to determine the effects on the national security of imports of timber, lumber, and their derivative products.

    (b)  In conducting the investigation described in subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary of Commerce shall assess the factors set forth in 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), labeled “Domestic production for national defense; impact of foreign competition on economic welfare of domestic industries,” as well as other relevant factors, including:

    (i)    the current and projected demand for timber and lumber in the United States;

    (ii)   the extent to which domestic production of timber and lumber can meet domestic demand;

    (iii)  the role of foreign supply chains, particularly of major exporters, in meeting United States timber and lumber demand;

    (iv)   the impact of foreign government subsidies and predatory trade practices on United States timber, lumber, and derivative product industry competitiveness;

    (v)    the feasibility of increasing domestic timber and lumber capacity to reduce imports; and

    (vi)   the impact of current trade policies on domestic timber, lumber, and derivative product production, and whether additional measures, including tariffs or quotas, are necessary to protect national security.

    Sec. 3.  Required Actions.  (a)  The Secretary of Commerce shall consult with the Secretary of Defense and the heads of other relevant executive departments and agencies as determined by the Secretary of Commerce to evaluate the national security risks associated with imports of timber, lumber, and their derivative products.

    (b)  No later than 270 days after the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce shall submit a report to the President that includes:

    (i)    findings on whether imports of timber, lumber, and their derivative products threaten national security;

    (ii)   recommendations on actions to mitigate such threats, including potential tariffs, export controls, or incentives to increase domestic production; and

    (iii)  policy recommendations for strengthening the United States timber and lumber supply chain through strategic investments and permitting reforms.

    Sec. 4.  Definitions.  As used in this order:

    (a)  The term “timber” refers to wood that has not been processed.

    (b)  The term “lumber” refers to wood that has been processed, including wood that has been milled and cut into boards or planks.

    Sec. 5.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        March 1, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Marks a Step Forward With AI for Everyone with New Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A26 5G

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today unveiled Galaxy A56 5G1, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A26 5G, the latest Galaxy A series smartphones. For the first time, the Galaxy A series is integrating Awesome Intelligence — including some of Galaxy’s fan-favorite, AI-powered features to reimagine creativity — while bringing enhanced durability and longevity, as well as robust security and privacy protections to provide a safe and long-lasting mobile experience.
    “The new Galaxy A series marks an important step in our mission of AI for all, by opening Galaxy’s incredible mobile AI experiences to even more people around the world,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. “With these awesome new features and capabilities, we are excited to unlock limitless creativity on the Galaxy A series while ensuring a safe, reliable and fun mobile experience.”
    Awesome Intelligence for Advanced Search and Creativity
    Awesome Intelligence is the first comprehensive mobile AI experience available on Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A35 5G, and Galaxy A26 5G and brings users powerful, fun, and easy-to-use AI tools. Powered by One UI 7, the new Awesome Intelligence features offer amazing search and visual experiences to Galaxy A series users.
    A fan-favorite on Galaxy A series devices last year, Google’s enhanced Circle to Search2 makes it easier than ever to search and discover from the phone’s screen. With the latest upgrades, users can now get even more done on their phone. Circle to Search will quickly recognize phone numbers, email addresses and URLs on the screen so users can take action with minimal actions.
    With the recent enhancements to Circle to Search, users can also instantly search their favorite songs they hear without switching apps. Whether it’s a song playing on social media from their phone or music that’s playing from speakers near them, just long press the navigation bar to activate Circle to Search, then tap the music button to effortlessly identify the song name and artist.

    The Galaxy A series also takes the camera experience to a new level with creator-focused tools, starting with a powerful triple-camera system featuring a 50MP main lens on all devices and 10-bit HDR front lens recording on Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G for bright and crisp selfies. Galaxy A56 5G features a new 12MP ultra-wide lens, while the entire Galaxy A series empowers creativity in new and exciting ways through intelligent visual editing.
    Exclusively available on Galaxy A56 5G, Best Face3 makes it easier than ever to capture the perfect group shot by selecting and combining the best expressions or features for up to five people from a motion photo. Whether someone blinked or looked away, Best Face ensures everyone looks their best in a single, seamless shot. Galaxy A56 5G also brings enhancements to Nightography, with Low Noise Mode making its way to the 12MP selfie camera and additional wide camera support to capture stunning content in low-light settings.

    Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A26 5G all bring refined Object Eraser4, allowing users to remove unwanted distractions from photos. Users can manually or automatically select objects to erase, achieving a cleaner, more polished final image with just a few taps. Moreover, Filters5enables custom filter creation by extracting colors and styles from existing photos for users to apply for a unique and personalized effect depending on mood and taste. With these intelligent tools, users can refine and enhance their photos effortlessly, bringing a new level of creativity to every shot.

    Built To Last with Upgraded Displays and Software Longevity
    Now with up to six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades and six years of security updates, the Galaxy A series reinforces its software longevity even more. These updates add additional support toward optimizing the device’s lifecycle, ensuring users can enjoy a smooth and reliable experience for years to come.
    Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G also come with larger displays designed for a high-quality, immersive viewing experience. Both devices feature a 6.7-inch6 FHD+ Super AMOLED display with brightness levels reaching up to 1200 nits7, allowing for a more vibrant and immersive entertainment experience. Frontline workers can also take advantage of the bright screens when working outside — allowing them to easily work from anywhere. New stereo speakers further enhance the experience with rich, balanced sound.
    A 5,000mAh battery included with every device in the lineup enables the new Galaxy A series’ design to keep up with users’ daily routines. Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G support 45W charging power8 and Super Fast Charge 2.0 technology, delivering even faster charging. Both models also deliver enhanced performance, as Galaxy A56 5G is powered by the Exynos 1580 chipset and Galaxy A36 5G features the Snapdragon® 6 Gen 3 Mobile Platform. A larger vapor chamber in both devices helps sustain performance, ensuring smooth gameplay, video playback, and effortless multitasking. For B2B customers, Super Fast charging optimizes battery life to allow workers to stay connected to their device during their shift.

    Beyond performance, the new Galaxy A series is built to withstand life’s unpredictable moments. For the first time, Galaxy A26 5G features an IP67 dust and water resistance rating for strong protection against the elements such as dust and water, matching the IP67 rating on Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A56 5G.9 Additionally, an advanced Corning® Glass cover material adds a layer of durability against scratches and cracks.10
    Expanded Protections for Enhanced Security and Privacy
    Thanks to the integration of One UI 7.0 on the Galaxy A series for the first time, Samsung is further supporting robust security and privacy. With Samsung Knox Vault, the Galaxy A series provides an extra, fortified layer of device safety, transparency, and user choice. Equipped with the latest One UI 7 security and privacy features, Galaxy A series users benefit from holistic protection — including enhancements in Theft Detection, More Security Settings and other features.
    To maintain freedom of choice, accessibility, and transparency, Galaxy A series users can easily select their desired security features through the Knox Matrix dashboard, and can also be deployed and managed in the enterprise through the Knox suite of cloud solutions.

    Pricing and Availability
    Galaxy A26 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A56 5G join A16 5G as the newest devices in the A series portfolio. Galaxy A36 5G starts at $399.99, available in Awesome Black and Awesome Lavender, with Awesome Lime exclusively available at Best Buy beginning March 26. Galaxy A26 5G starts at $299.99, available in Black beginning March 28. Galaxy A56 5G will be available later this year starting at $499.99.
    Upon release, Digital Key will be available on Galaxy A56 5G11 and Galaxy A36 5G devices12 in select markets including Asia, Europe, and North America with more to follow.
    To find out more about Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, Galaxy A26 5G, Galaxy A16 5G, and other Galaxy smartphones, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsung Mobile Press, Samsung.com, and Samsung.com/business.

    Galaxy A56 5GGalaxy A36 5GGalaxy A26 5G
    Display6.7-inch FHD+
    Super AMOLED Display
    120Hz refresh rate
    Vision Booster
    *Measured diagonally, the screen size is 6.7-inch in the full rectangle and 6.5-inch with accounting for the rounded corners; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.
    Dimensions & Weight162.2 x 77.5 x 7.4mm, 198g162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4mm, 195g164.0 x 77.5 x 7.7mm, 200g
    *Device weight may vary by market.
    Camera12MP Ultra-Wide Camera
    • F2.2
    50MP Main Camera
    • F1.8, AF, OIS
    5MP Macro Camera
    • F2.4
    12MP Front Camera
    • F2.28MP Ultra-Wide Camera
    • F2.2
    50MP Main Camera
    • F1.8, AF, OIS
    5MP Macro Camera
    • F2.4
    12MP Front Camera
    • F2.28MP Ultra-Wide Camera
    • F2.2
    50MP Main Camera
    • F1.8, AF, OIS
    2MP Macro Camera
    • F2.4
    13MP Front Camera
    • F2.2
    Memory & Storage8GB + 128GB6GB + 128GB6GB + 128GB
    *Storage options and availability may vary by carrier, market or region. Actual storage availability may vary depending on pre-installed software.
    Battery5,000mAh (typical)
    *Typical value tested under third-party laboratory conditions. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated (minimum) capacity is 4,905mAh. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
    OSAndroid 15
    One UI 7.0
    SecuritySamsung Knox, Samsung Knox Suite Management, six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades, six years of security updates
    Water & Dust ResistanceIP67
    1 5G speeds vary and require optimal network and connection (factors include frequency, bandwidth, congestion); see carrier for availability.
    2 Works with compatible apps. Requires internet connection; results may vary by uniqueness, clarity and framing of circled image and related factors. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Google is a trademark of Google LLC.
    3 Best Face feature is available exclusively on the Galaxy A56 5G device from the Galaxy A series.
    Best Face is only available for photos taken with Motion Photo turned on. The feature does not generate new facial expressions but selects from frames within the Motion Photo video clip. Resulting image up to 12MP.
    4 Results may vary based on the images and the object you’re trying to remove.
    5 Filter availability may vary based on resolution and aspect ratio settings.
    6 Measured diagonally, the screen size is 6.7″ in the full rectangle and 6.5″ accounting for the rounded corners. Actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and the camera hole.
    7 1,200 nits at HBM (High Brightness Mode).
    8 Charger and compatible 45W cable sold separately.
    9 IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. Water resistance based on laboratory test conditions for submersion in up to 1 meter of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Dust resistance based on laboratory test conditions for airflow of up to 8 hours.
    10 Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ is applied to the front and rear of Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A26 5G. Frame does not include volume and side keys or SIM tray.
    11Digital Key rollout for Galaxy A56 5G begins in Korea, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy. Features may vary depending on each country or region.
    12Digital Key rollout for Galaxy A36 5G begins in Korea, UAE, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and the United States. Features may vary depending on each country or region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Little Leaf Farms Announces Limited Voluntary Withdrawal of a Specific Lot Code of Southwest Salad Kit Due to Undeclared Fish and Wheat

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    February 28, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    March 01, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & Beverages
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Undeclared fish and wheat allergen

    Company Name:
    Little Leaf Farms
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Little Leaf Farms

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Southwest Salad Kits

    Company Announcement
    Little Leaf Farms is voluntarily recalling a specific lot code of its Southwest Salad Kits due to the potential presence of undeclared fish and wheat allergens. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to wheat and/or fish run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
    The affected product was produced during a single run on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, resulting in one pallet of 96 cases (576 individual clamshells). Little Leaf Farms has determined that fewer than 20 individual Southwest Salad Kits were incorrectly assembled during this run.
    Product was distributed to the following states: Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire. The Southwest Salad Kits were distributed to retail stores including Ahold USA Freetown, Kilduff, Stew Leonard’s, Associated Grocers of New England, Shapiro Produce, and C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc (Hatfield) between February 20, 2025, and February 22, 2025.
    The recalled product is identified as follows:

    Product Name: Southwest Salad Kit
    Lot Number: 050011 as the first six digits (printed on the bottom left of the package)
    Enjoy By Date: 03/08/2025
    Package Size: Individual clamshell

    Consumers who may have purchased the potentially affected Southwest Salad Kits with this lot number are asked to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or immediately dispose of them. Little Leaf Farms is advising affected retailers in its distribution network to remove existing products with the above-identified lot code from their shelves and warehouses.
    The issue was identified after receiving one consumer complaint noting incorrect ingredients. No injuries or illnesses have been reported to date.
    While the products are safe to eat and the company believes the issue is extremely limited, it is taking this measure to ensure the safety of its consumers.
    Consumers with questions should contact Little Leaf Farms Consumer Relations at (844) LIL-LEAF, Monday- Friday 9-12pm, 1:30-5pm EST, or email us at hello@littleleaffarms.com.

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    03/01/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Trump’s NIH funding cuts and freezes raise concerns over US biotech drug development and innovation, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Trump’s NIH funding cuts and freezes raise concerns over US biotech drug development and innovation, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    The US President Donald Trump began his second term with a series of directives targeting the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), creating uncertainty around NIH grant funding for biopharmaceutical drug development. With over $1.4 billion in NIH Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants involving innovator drugs awarded between 2020 and 2024, the funding cuts and freezes could hamper biopharmaceutical innovation and limit patient access to drugs, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    The US NIH is the largest funder of biomedical research globally, providing federal government funding to US-based early-stage small businesses through its SBIR and STTR programs to drive innovation with a focus on commercialization.

    Alison Labya, Business Fundamentals Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Biotech startups rely on government grants to fund early-stage biopharmaceutical research and development (R&D), where attracting venture capital is challenging unless a clear return on investment is evident.”

    According to GlobalData’s Pharma Intelligence Center Grants Database, SBIR and STTR grants involving innovator drugs saw a 37% increase in total grant value from $237 million in 2020 to $326 million in 2024. Over 80% of SBIR and STTR grants were awarded for preclinical and discovery-stage drugs, amounting to over $1.1 billion between 2020 and 2024, reflecting the support NIH SBIR and STTR grant funding provides to early-stage R&D.

    Labya continues: “Infectious disease was the top therapy area for preclinical and discovery-stage SBIR and grants with a total grant value of $295 million from 2020 to 2024, followed by central nervous system with $241 million. However, infectious disease drug development could see a downturn in NIH grant funding under the leadership of Robert F Kennedy Jr.—Trump’s newly appointed head of the US Department of Health and Human Services—who has previously commented plans to shift research away from infectious diseases.”

    A notable NIH reform rolled out by Trump was a $4 billion cut to overhead funding for biomedical research by reducing “indirect” costs on grants to 15%. This follows other restrictions that were imposed on the NIH, including abrupt cancellations of grant review panels without reschedule, delaying access to grant funding.

    Similarly, Trump issued a 90-day funding freeze and stop-work order for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), disrupting USAID-funded clinical trials globally.

    Labya concludes: “The Trump administration communicated its intent to review and redirect federal spending away from grant programs that do not align with Trump’s ideological agenda, signalling increased stringency in the allocation of NIH grant funding, with grant applications referencing diversity in preclinical and clinical drug development potentially facing challenges.

    “Trump’s recent federal funding cuts and freezes could stifle innovation by creating cash flow challenges for biotech companies that rely on government grants, which could delay or halt global biopharmaceutical R&D and drug approvals, limiting patient access to essential treatments.”

    Note: Data in the chart includes all announced and completed SBIR and STTR grants received by a company from 2020 to 2024 involving at least one innovator drug.

    MIL OSI Economics –