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Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI USA: Updated Release: Hartford Bakery, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Hazelnuts in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style ½ Loaf”

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    July 11, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    July 14, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesAllergens
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Undeclared hazelnuts

    Company Name:
    Hartford Bakery, Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Lewis Bake Shop

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf

    Company Announcement
    “A previous version of this press release was issued on 7/10/25. This press release was updated to include six additional lots.”
    EVANSVILLE, IN – July 11, 2025 — Hartford Bakery, Inc. is voluntarily recalling six lots of its “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” as this product may contain undeclared hazelnuts. People with a nut allergy or severe sensitivity to hazelnuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.
    Out of an abundance of caution, Hartford Bakery, Inc. is removing all units of product included in the twelve effected lot codes noted below. Hartford Bakery, Inc has determined that no other lot codes were affected.
    The recalled “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” products were distributed in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Arkansas, Missouri, Alabama, and Mississippi retailers, including Kroger and Walmart. The product comes in a flexible plastic bag marked with the following information:

    Lot code T10 174 010206, T10 174 010306, T10 174 010406, T10 174 020206, T10 174 020306, T10 174 020406, TH10 174 010206, TH10 174 010306, TH10 174 010406, TH10 174 020206, TH10 174 020306, and TH10 174 020406 found on the front panel of packaging.
    Net Weight 12OZ (340G), UPC 24126018152 found on the bottom of packaging.
    An expiration date of 07/13/2025 found on the front panel of packaging.

    The recall was initiated after discovering that approximately 883 loaves of bread from six production lots contained visible hazelnuts and were distributed in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” packaging. While the packaging states “May Contain Tree Nuts,” it does not state that it “Contains Hazelnuts.” An investigation revealed an error in change of packaging for a hazelnut-containing bread to the implicated white bread product.
    While there have been no major reports of injury or illness to date, Hartford Bakery is aware of one customer who experienced digestive discomfort after consumption. Hartford Bakery also received consumer complaints from those who saw the nuts before consuming the product.
    Consumers who purchased the implicated products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Hartford Bakery at 1-812-425-4642 Monday through Friday, except for holidays, from 8:00am-3:00pm CST.
    ContactsTracy Wingo1-812-425-4642
    *This updated release corrects the previously reported lot codes.
    Link to Original Press Release

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Hartford Bakery, Tracy Wingo
    1-812-425-4642

    Content current as of:
    07/14/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improved trade rules to boost business and growth across the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Improved trade rules to boost business and growth across the UK

    New changes to how the UK Internal Market Act works to benefit businesses across the four nations.

    • New reforms will ensure businesses can trade smoothly across the UK’s four nations, helping them operate more efficiently and with greater certainty. 
    • Changes respond directly to business feedback and are a key part of the government’s Plan for Change to unlock investment and jobs, raise living standards and drive long-term growth.
    • Devolved governments will have greater flexibility to set rules that reflect local priorities, while protecting the UK’s internal market, worth £129bn a year, and supporting a more collaborative approach.

    Businesses trading across the UK’s four nations will benefit from clearer and more certain rules, following government changes to how the UK Internal Market Act works today [15 July]. 

    Following extensive feedback from businesses – including calls for greater clarity, consistency, and collaboration – the UK Government has completed a review of the Act ahead of schedule, ensuring seamless trading between the nations. 

    The updated approach puts business needs at the forefront, while also enabling devolved governments to shape laws which align with their own priorities. A transparent and well-managed internal market will help to minimise the risk of unnecessary trade barriers, providing certainty for businesses to invest, boosting growth and raising living standards as the government delivers on its Plan for Change. 

    In response to businesses’ asks, the rules will now be made in a way that is more transparent, streamlined, and considers a broader evidence base, encouraging open conversations between governments and making it easier for businesses to engage with and understand how decisions are made and applied across the UK. 

    Protecting the environment and public health will be taken into account alongside economic factors when a government proposes excluding an area from the UK Internal Market Act. In addition, if a proposed change has only a limited economic impact, this can now be agreed through a streamlined process. 

    This updated approach will better enable all four governments to agree shared rules across a wide range of areas including chemicals and pesticides and provide more flexibility to legislate. 

    Minister for Trade Policy Douglas Alexander said: 

    “A thriving internal market is essential to the UK’s economic success, so we’ve listened to what businesses want — and we’re acting ahead of schedule.

    “These reforms will keep trade flowing, reduce friction, and unlock growth across all four nations.

    “We’ve also worked closely with devolved governments to ensure they can deliver on their priorities.”

    Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: 

    “Trade between the nations of the UK is vital to the health of our overall economy and a key driver of growth. Businesses want to see devolved and UK governments working together to ensure there are no unnecessary barriers to the flows of goods and services between us.

    “The UK Internal Market Act is key to this, setting the foundations which underpin over £100bn of trade. This new streamlined approach to rulemaking will give businesses the certainty they need so they can grow, invest, and prosper.” 

    This is just another example of how we’re making things better for business, alongside cutting regulation and reducing administrative costs to boost businesses and growth across the country for big and small firms.

    The UK internal market supported over £129 billion of trade between the four nations in 2019 — equivalent to around 6% of the UK economy. For Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, sales to the rest of the UK make up a major share of their external sales — typically around 60%. The reforms published today aim to protect and grow that vital trade, ensuring businesses can operate with confidence and certainty.  

    This announcement follows a wide-ranging consultation launched in January 2025 and a statutory review announced in December 2024. The consultation received almost a hundred responses, from businesses, academics, environmental groups and the devolved governments. The improvements made to the operation of the Act are a result of those responses. 

    Together, these steps mark a shift toward a more business-led, cooperative approach to managing the internal market — one that supports economic growth while respecting devolved powers.   

    Notes to editors: 

    • The UK government is required by law to review elements of the UK Internal Market Act by December 2025. 
    • These changes do not affect provisions relating to Northern Ireland, which are tied to the Windsor Framework. 
    • The UK Government continues to be committed to the Common Frameworks programme and improving transparency and collaboration between the four governments of the UK, which is clearly demonstrated by the outcomes of this review.
    • Further details can be found on the consultation outcome page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo Secretariat releases Policy Pulse on “Strategies and edges of Hong Kong in hydrogen development”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

         The Legislative Council (LegCo) Secretariat today (July 15) released the latest issue of the Policy Pulse on “Strategies and edges of Hong Kong in hydrogen development”. This issue provides a brief overview of hydrogen energy development strategies in Hong Kong, the edges of promoting the hydrogen energy industry, the latest progress of improving relevant legislation by the Government, as well as relevant discussions of LegCo along with suggestions by Members.

         LegCo will resume the Second Reading debate on the Gas Safety (Amendment) Bill 2025 tomorrow (July 16). The Bill seeks to regulate the use of hydrogen as fuel to ensure the safe application of hydrogen fuel. It also empowers the Government to introduce new subsidiary legislation to ensure the flexibility of updating the regulatory requirements. The Government intends to introduce subsidiary legislation in 2026 to cover the entire supply chain of hydrogen as fuel. 

         The Policy Pulse highlights that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government actively promotes the development of hydrogen energy, and promulgated the Strategy of Hydrogen Development in Hong Kong last year. Setting out four major strategies of improving legislation, establishing standards, aligning with the market and advancing with prudence, the Strategy aims to create an environment conducive to the development of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong in an orderly manner, so as to make preparations for the wider application of hydrogen energy in the future.

         With a “zero carbon emissions” feature, hydrogen is a new energy with significant decarbonisation potential. Our country is the largest hydrogen producer in the world, and strives to achieve the “dual carbon” goals of peaking carbon emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060. The SAR Government also targets to cut carbon emissions by half from the 2005 level before 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2050. The Policy Pulse points out that, with its unique advantage of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, as well as the strengths in scientific research, robust legislation and energy infrastructure, Hong Kong has very great potential to become a demonstration base for the development of hydrogen energy in the country, and facilitate the development of the hydrogen energy industry in the Belt and Road region and other overseas places. In addition, as an international financial centre, Hong Kong can help enterprises with their green transformation by providing green financing and professional services.

         The Policy Pulse also introduces a number of measures by the SAR Government to support research and innovation in the hydrogen energy technology. These include setting up the Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel to co-ordinate the efforts in promoting the local use of hydrogen energy and initiate relevant trial projects. Meanwhile, the Government has launched several funding schemes that cover the research and development of hydrogen energy technology, and actively promotes talent training, technological exchange and application in relevant scientific and technological fields, so as to cultivate professionals with the specialised knowledge and skills to ensure the safe application of hydrogen energy technology.

         LegCo Members have long attached great importance to the development of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong. In March 2023, LegCo passed a motion advocating the SAR Government to comprehensively promote the development of hydrogen energy industry in Hong Kong. The LegCo Panel on Environmental Affairs also visited hydrogen projects during its duty visit to Mainland cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (the Greater Bay Area) in August of the same year, and has been following up on issues related to hydrogen energy. The Policy Pulse summarises various recommendations made by Members on hydrogen energy development. These include capitalising on the strengths of Hong Kong’s financial services industry to attract capital investment in the city’s hydrogen energy industry and reserve land for development. Furthermore, the Government should take the lead in developing green industries and make use of new development areas as a springboard to bring in quality hydrogen energy industries; formulate relevant policies on hydrogen energy pricing to stimulate demand for hydrogen energy; promote carbon index certification to include hydrogen energy into Hong Kong’s carbon emissions trading market; and actively research and develop local hydrogen production technology, among others.

         The Policy Pulse points out that hydrogen energy is an integral component of the country’s future energy system. Members urge the Government to collaborate with other cities in the Greater Bay Area on the joint research, development and promotion of hydrogen energy development projects to facilitate exchanges and co-operation between the two places across the hydrogen energy industrial chain, with a view to promoting the alignment of the safety monitoring and quality testing standards between Hong Kong and the Mainland. Members also advise the Government to speed up the development of a set of internationally recognised hydrogen energy certification standards, so as to assist the Greater Bay Area and even the entire hydrogen industry in the country to enter the international market.

         The detailed content of “Strategies and edges of Hong Kong in hydrogen development” is available on the LegCo Website. The Policy Pulse, published by the Council Business Divisions of the LegCo Secretariat, covers specific topics and offers a comprehensive overview of related policy developments and summarised discussions in LegCo.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: No more card surcharges: what the Reserve Bank’s proposed changes mean for your wallet

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Angel Zhong, Professor of Finance, RMIT University

    That extra 10c on your morning coffee. That $2 surcharge on your taxi ride. The sneaky 1.5% fee when you pay by card at your local restaurant. These could all soon be history.

    The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has proposed a sweeping reform: abolishing card payment surcharges. The central bank says it’s in the public interest to scrap the system and estimates consumers could collectively save $1.2 billion annually.

    But like all major financial reforms, the devil is in the detail.

    The 20-year experiment is over

    Surcharging was introduced more than two decades ago to expose the true cost of different payment methods. In the early 2000s, card fees were high, cash was king, and surcharges helped nudge consumers toward lower-cost options.

    But fast-forward to 2025, and the payments ecosystem has changed dramatically. Cash now accounts for just 13% of in-person transactions, and the shift to contactless payments, accelerated by the pandemic, has made cards the default for most Australians.

    When there’s no real alternative, a surcharge becomes less a useful price signal and more a penalty for convenience.

    After an eight month review, the bank’s Payments System Board has concluded the surcharge model no longer works in a predominantly cashless economy. The proposal now on the table is to phase out surcharges and instead push for simplified, all-inclusive pricing.

    Who saves – and who pays?

    At first glance, removing surcharges looks like a win for consumers. Every household could save about $60 per year, based on the RBA’s estimates. But payment costs don’t vanish – they shift.

    This is where the Reserve Bank’s proposal is more sophisticated than it may appear. Alongside banning surcharges, it plans to lower interchange fees (the fees merchants pay to card networks like Visa and Mastercard) and introduce caps on international card transactions.

    These changes aim to reduce the burden on merchants, which in turn limits the pressure to raise prices.

    Could prices still rise?

    Some worry that without surcharges, businesses will simply embed the costs into product prices. That’s possible. However, the bank estimates this would result in only a 0.1 percentage point increase in consumer prices overall.

    There are three reasons for that:

    1. most merchants already don’t surcharge, especially small businesses. Of them, 90% may have included card costs in their pricing

    2. competition keeps pricing in check. Retailers in competitive markets can’t raise prices without risking customers

    3. transparency is coming. The reforms will require payment providers to disclose fees more clearly, allowing merchants to compare and switch – fostering more competition and lower costs.

    That said, the effects won’t be felt evenly. Merchants in sectors that do currently surcharge, like hospitality, transport, and tourism, will need to rethink their pricing strategies. Some may absorb costs; others may pass them on.

    The winners

    Consumers stand to benefit most. They’ll avoid surprise fees at checkout, won’t need to switch payment methods to dodge surcharges, and won’t have to report excessive fees to the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission. Combined with lower interchange fees, this means consumers should face less friction and more predictable pricing.

    About 90% of small businesses don’t currently surcharge and would gain around $185 million in net benefits. These businesses often pay higher interchange fees, so the reform will reduce their costs. New transparency requirements will also make it easier to find better deals from payment service providers (PSPs).

    Large businesses already receive lower domestic interchange rates, but they’ll benefit from new caps on foreign-issued card transactions, which is a win for those in e-commerce and tourism.

    The losers

    Banks that issue cards stand to lose about $900 million in interchange revenue under the preferred reform package. Some may respond by raising cardholder fees or cutting rewards, especially on premium credit cards. But they may also gain from increased credit card use as surcharges disappear.

    The 10% of small and 12% of large merchants who currently surcharge will have to adjust. They may face retraining costs and need to revise their pricing strategies.
    Most will be able to adapt, but the transition won’t be cost-free.

    Payment service providers will face about $25 million in compliance costs to remove surcharges and provide clearer fee breakdowns. For some, this may involve significant system changes, though one-off in nature.

    Will it work?

    The Reserve Bank’s proposal tackles real problems: an outdated surcharge model, opaque pricing by payment service providers, and bundling of unrelated services into payment fees. Its success depends on how well these reforms are implemented and whether they deliver real price transparency and lower costs.

    Removing visible price signals may create cross-subsidisation, where users of low-cost debit cards subsidise those who use high-cost rewards credit cards. Some economists argue this could reduce overall efficiency in the system.

    International experience offers mixed lessons. While the European Union and United Kingdom banned most surcharges years ago, outcomes have varied depending on market conditions. Efficiency gains haven’t always followed, and small business concerns persist.

    The road ahead

    The Reserve Bank is seeking feedback until August 26, with a final decision due by year-end. If adopted, the reform will be phased in, allowing time for businesses to adapt.

    For consumers, this may mark the end of hidden payment fees. But for the broader system, success will depend on more than just eliminating surcharges. It will require meaningful competition, transparency, and vigilance during the transition.

    While not a major omission, mobile wallets (such as Apple Pay) and Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services represent a missing component in the broader payments ecosystem that the current reforms do not yet address.

    These platforms operate outside the traditional regulatory framework, often imposing higher merchant fees and lacking the transparency applied to card networks.

    Their growing popularity, especially among younger consumers, means they increasingly shape payment behaviour and merchant cost structures. To build a truly future-ready and equitable payments system, these emerging models may need to be brought into the regulatory fold.

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

    – ref. No more card surcharges: what the Reserve Bank’s proposed changes mean for your wallet – https://theconversation.com/no-more-card-surcharges-what-the-reserve-banks-proposed-changes-mean-for-your-wallet-261165

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Connections Fund open for applications

    Source: Scottish Government

    Fund to support Scotland’s diaspora increased by 50%.

    Applications are now open for the Scottish Connections Fund 2025-26, which helps strengthen Scotland’s international diaspora.   

    Grants of up to £5,000 are available for new projects that help to promote Scotland and bring together our diaspora around the world. This year’s total funding has increased by 50% to £75,000 – supporting a minimum of 15 projects in 2025-26.  

    The Fund aims to promote increased visibility and connectivity with and between Scottish diaspora communities. It offers funding to deliver new and innovative projects outwith Scotland that promote the nation’s reputation and interests around the globe. 

    External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson said:

    “The Scottish Connections Fund has increased by 50% to £75,000 for this year – meaning that even more new and innovative projects will be able to benefit and engage Scotland’s diaspora community.

    “The Fund is open to bids from any individual or organisation with a Scottish connection, whether that link is through heritage, education, business, culture, or a broader affinity.

    “We see Scotland diaspora as an extension of Scotland itself – and we want to support this thriving community around the world.”

    One of the Fund’s beneficiaries last year was the Africa Scotland Business Network which received funding to set up a new Future Leaders business network for under 30s.

    Director Claire Alexander said:

    “The Scottish Connections Fund has played a pivotal role in launching a powerful legacy initiative that’s making a real difference in the lives of young people. Africa Scotland Business Network (ASBN) was honoured to receive a grant from the fund, which enabled the creation of ASBN Future Leaders – a dynamic, new, international and intercultural business network tailored specifically for the needs of young people.

    “Today, ASBN Future Leaders is home to young people from Scotland, England, Namibia, South Africa, and Kenya – and the community continues to grow every month.”

    Background

    Applications for this year’s Fund will close on Tuesday 9 September 2025. Projects must be completed by the end of March 2026.

    The Scottish Connections Fund has supported 15 successful projects across two previous funding rounds.

    The launch of the Scottish Connections Fund was a commitment included in the Scottish Connections Framework, published April 2023.

    ASBN Future Leaders, from the Africa Scotland Business Network gives young people access to a trusted, international network of diverse individuals in Scotland and beyond, to nurture intercultural and knowledge exchange. Young members also receive personal brand-building opportunities, marketing exposure, mentorship, and a 12-month educational programme led by experienced CEOs from our founding business network.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Boosting broadband in the North East

    Source: Scottish Government

    More than 60,000 homes and businesses to benefit from Project Gigabit rollout.

    Around 63,000 more premises in the North East of Scotland will be able to access gigabit-capable broadband following the award of a contract to deliver the Project Gigabit rollout in the area.   

    The £105 million contract, funded by the UK Government and procured and delivered by the Scottish Government, has been awarded to GoFibre.

    The roll-out will benefit some of the most rural areas in Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen City, Angus, Dundee, Moray, Highland and parts of Perth and Kinross. It will reach locations including Forfar, Glamis and Brechin, to Cullen, Forres and as far west as Castle Stuart near Inverness Airport.  

    The first connections are due to be delivered by Summer 2026.

    The contract is the third to be awarded as part of the Project Gigabit programme in Scotland. It follows a £25 million contract being awarded to GoFibre to benefit around 11,000 premises in the Scottish Borders and East Lothian and a £157 million contract awarded to Openreach to provide access to more than 65,000 premises in the Highlands and Outer Hebrides, together with some of the most hard-to-reach areas across the country. 

    Business Minister Richard Lochhead said:   

    “Fast, reliable broadband is a fundamental building block for Scotland’s economy – and for our society. It’s why we are committed to ensuring connections across the country meet the needs of people and businesses, delivering faster connections to more than a million premises over the last decade.   

    “Project Gigabit will build on and complement the transformational work already being delivered through the Scottish Government’s Reaching 100% programme and I look forward to working with the UK Government, as broadband remains a reserved matter, to ensure we deliver more gigabit-capable connections to rural communities.”   

    UK Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    “Our investment in North East Scotland will overhaul broadband networks in hard-to-reach areas with slower internet speeds, putting an end to annoying buffering, and creating exciting new opportunities for local businesses and communities.

    “Now the contract is signed, work can begin to deliver internet upgrades that many towns and villages sorely need. It shows how the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change is delivering for people across Scotland, helping to drive economic growth and tear down the UK’s digital divide.”

    GoFibre CEO Neil Conaghan said:

    “This Project Gigabit contract award is a hugely exciting development for the north east of Scotland, and for GoFibre, transforming broadband connectivity across a substantial region of Scotland.

    “As a fast-growing Scottish independent broadband company, GoFibre is committed to improving connectivity in rural and hard-to-reach areas and we cannot wait to get started on this major infrastructure project. Building on the back of our Project Gigabit contract award for the Borders and East Lothian earlier this year, it shows GoFibre is at the heart of rural broadband development in Scotland.”

    Background 

    Project Gigabit was launched by the UK Government to enable hard-to-reach communities to access fast, reliable gigabit-capable broadband. It targets homes and businesses that are not included in broadband suppliers’ commercial plans, reaching parts of the UK that might otherwise miss out on upgrades to next-generation speeds.

    The programme is targeted at premises which fall out with the Scottish Government’s Reaching 100% (R100) programme contracts and commercial activity.   

    Further Project Gigabit contracts will see gigabit-capable broadband delivered to tens of thousands more premises across Scotland.  

    Over £600m is being invested in the Scottish Government’s Reaching 100% (R100) programme, comprising £591m by the Scottish Government, £52m by the UK Government and £53m by BT. This is one of the most ambitious and complex digital infrastructure programmes in Europe which is rolling out connections in some of the country’s most challenging rural locations.     

    Originally conceived as a superfast broadband programme, R100 is now providing a gigabit-capable connection – a speed more than 30 times faster than superfast broadband – in around 99% of cases. Building to some of the hardest-to-reach parts of Scotland, a total of over 85,000 connections have enabled access to faster broadband as a result of R100.       

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Madhya Pradesh CM wraps up Dubai visit with strong investment pitch and strategic partnerships

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav wrapped up his three-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates today, delivering a compelling investment pitch that’s already generating significant interest from global investors. The Chief Minister’s packed Dubai schedule included high-level meetings with UAE government officials, business leaders, and Indian diaspora members,  all focused on positioning Madhya Pradesh as India’s next major investment destination.

    At the ‘Madhya Pradesh Business Investment Forum‘ hosted alongside the Indian Business and Professional Council, Dr. Yadav made his case directly to potential investors. “Madhya Pradesh invites you to invest, with endless possibilities in all sectors,” he declared, highlighting the state’s new business-friendly policies and commitment to adapting to entrepreneur needs. The Chief Minister’s promise? Businesses can launch operations within just thirty days, thanks to a dedicated Investment Facilitation Cell, reduced red tape, and a transparent land allotment system.

    The numbers tell the story. Senior officials outlined the Industrial Policy 2025 and MSME Policy 2025, offering up to fifty percent support on capital expenses, complete stamp duty exemptions, and targeted subsidies across green infrastructure, research and development, exports, and industrial housing. Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Dubey made a striking claim about the state’s high-tech push into semiconductors, space technology, and deeptech sectors. “On day one, investors in our data center sector can be cash-positive. That’s the kind of policy backing we offer,” he announced, revealing plans for new Centres of Excellence and innovative funding models.

    Consul General of India in Dubai, Satish Kumar Sivan, placed the visit in broader context, calling the India-UAE relationship “one of the most consequential bilateral partnerships in the world today.” He pointed to the dramatic surge in trade since the 2022 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, emphasizing Madhya Pradesh’s competitive advantages in agriculture, renewables, tourism, and digital economy. New opportunities are emerging too… including Bharat Mart, a logistics platform for Indian small businesses launching in Jebel Ali, and the integration of India’s UPI payment system with the UAE’s AANI network.

    The Chief Minister’s diplomatic offensive included a crucial meeting with UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, plus corporate discussions with heavyweights like Emirates, Lulu Group, DP World, Texmas, G42, Sharaf DG, Tata Group, and Gulf Islamic Investments. Dr. Yadav also toured key facilities including the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Dubai Textile City, culminating in a significant MoU signing with Texmas to strengthen textile and industrial collaboration.

    The visit balanced business with community engagement. A cultural and networking event at JW Marriott brought together the Indian diaspora, while a tourism investment roundtable and business forum featured detailed presentations from state officials. “Madhya Pradesh, with its strength in food processing, textiles, green energy, wellness, and startups, is ready to become a hub for global business,” Dr. Yadav concluded, expressing confidence that this visit marks the beginning of a new chapter in UAE-MP economic cooperation.

    The Chief Minister’s Dubai mission appears to have struck the right chord with investors and officials alike, setting the stage for what could be a significant expansion of economic ties between the UAE and one of India’s fastest-growing states.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds Reforms to rewire financial system, boost investment and create skilled jobs across UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Leeds Reforms to rewire financial system, boost investment and create skilled jobs across UK

    Red tape cut and savers supported to invest as Chancellor rewires financial system to boost growth

    • Leeds Reforms will make the UK the number one destination for financial services businesses by 2035, attracting inward investment and creating good skilled jobs across the UK through the Plan for Change. 

    • Rachel Reeves promises to “double down on the UK’s global strengths” as she unveils first-ever Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness sector plan, a key plank of the modern Industrial Strategy.

    Working people will be equipped with the support they need to invest and grow their savings, under plans to rewire the financial system to attract investment, create good skilled jobs across the country and put more money into people’s pockets. 

    Banks will send investment opportunities to savers with cash sitting in low-interest accounts for the first time, and major financial institutions – including high street banks – are backing an advertising campaign that will highlight the opportunities of investing for consumers who are able to do so.  

    Under current trends, moving £2,000 from these accounts to stocks and shares could make millions of people over £9,000 better off in 20 years’ time. 

    The plans to boost people’s savings and the economy were unveiled by the Chancellor at a summit of top finance executives in Leeds today as she set out the widest ranging reforms to financial regulation in over a decade – backing one of the key eight growth driving sectors of the future identified in the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy published last month.    

    The Chancellor told executives that, having delivered stability and a sustainable strategy for investment, it was time for the UK to “double down on its global strengths” through reform to make sure it stays ahead in the global race for business investment and the good skilled jobs they bring.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    We fixed the public finances and stabilised the economy. Now we need to double down on our global strengths to put the UK ahead in the global race for financial businesses – creating good skilled jobs in every part of the country and helping savers’ money go further through our Plan for Change.

    Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Financial Services are a UK success story, and one of the eight sectors we identified with the biggest potential for growth in our modern Industrial Strategy. 

    This sector plan will help make the UK the number one destination for financial services by 2035 and is all about delivering on our Plan for Change to boost the economy and put more money in people’s pockets.

    Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Emma Reynolds said:

    Helping people take advantage of better returns from investing is key to better financial health, giving them a stake in a growing economy and connecting promising businesses with capital. These reforms will make the UK the best location for financial services firms and tear down barriers to investment to growing our economy and making families better off.

    The Leeds Reforms tear down the barriers to attracting investment in the finance sector by reintroducing informed risk-taking into the system, cutting unnecessary red tape, driving more finance into public markets and actively helping international companies to set up in the UK. 

    This will position the UK as the number one destination for financial services companies by 2035, attracting business from around the world to harness the knowledge, talent and expertise in financial services hot spots from Glasgow to Leeds, and help the UK achieve an ambitious target to double the growth rate in UK net exports in these services over the next decade.

    Unlocking retail investment 

    The UK has the lowest level of retail investment among G7 countries, meaning savers are not getting the best bang for their buck and UK businesses are starved of an important source of capital. 

    Stocks and shares have performed significantly better than cash savings accounts in recent decades. According to some industry estimates, more than 29 million adults across the UK have cash sitting in a low-interest rate account offering around 1% – while the average return for stocks and shares over the last 10 years is around 9%. If those savers invested £2000 today, they could have £12,000 in 20 years’ time. This compares to £2,700 if they held this money in a cash account offering 1.5% at the current interest rate, making them over £9,000 better off.

    The industry-led ad campaign will help to explain the benefits of investing, and from April 2026 the Financial Conduct Authority will roll out Targeted Support – allowing banks to alert customers about specific investment opportunities to consider shifting money from a low-return current accounts to higher-performing stocks and shares investments.  

    Alongside a review of risk warnings on investment products to make sure they help people to accurately judge risk levels, this will guide people through a key barrier to investing – getting lost between large number of investment products on offer. 

    The Government will continue to consider reforms to ISAs and savings to achieve the right balance between cash savings and investment. 

    As a first step, the Government will allow Long Term Asset Funds to be held in Stocks & Shares ISAs next year, allowing more individuals to invest in assets that will support the UK’s future success, like innovative businesses and infrastructure – which can also deliver better returns.

    Cutting red tape to attract investment and drive growth

    Businesses will be welcomed to the UK with open arms and unnecessary financial red tape that stalls inward investment and slows growth will be drastically cut under the plans. 

    A new concierge service within the Office for Investment will harness UK networks globally to actively court international financial services companies, creating a one-stop-shop to promote the UK and provide tailored support to help businesses plan where to invest based on their needs – better harnessing specialist clusters across the country from asset management in Edinburgh, to Fintech in Leeds and Cardiff, and insurance in Norwich and Norfolk. 

    First-time buyers will be supported to get on the housing ladder, with the Bank of England allowing more lending at over 4.5 times a buyer’s income – which could help 36,000 more people buy a home over its first year and are helping Nationwide support an additional 10,000 first-time buyers by lowering income thresholds for its popular ‘Helping Hand’ mortgage from tomorrow. Simplified mortgage lending rules being considered by the Financial Conduct Authority will also make it easier for existing borrowers to remortgage, while the introduction of a permanent government-backed Mortgage Guarantee Scheme will secure the availability of high loan-to-value mortgage products in times of economic uncertainty. 

    The Financial Ombudsman Service will be returned to its original purpose as a simple, impartial dispute resolution service which quickly and effectively deals with complaints against financial services firms under today’s reforms instead of acting as a quasi-regulator, with its decisions more closely aligned to the Financial Conduct Authority’s rules. This takes action on a key business complaint about the unpredictable and inconsistent nature of redress action, boosting firms’ confidence to invest and innovate. 

    The Senior Managers and Certification Regime – which was originally intended to address failures in individual accountability and culture that contributed to the 2008 financial crisis – has been implemented in a way that creates unnecessary costs for business. Today’s reforms will help deliver a commitment to radically streamline the regime, cutting the burden on firms in half. 

    The Financial Conduct Authority’s Consumer Duty rules were also intended to raise standards in how finance companies treat retail consumers, but today affect the way businesses interact with other businesses – such as investment banks and asset managers. The Financial Conduct Authority will therefore review how the Consumer Duty applies to these wholesale firms.

    Freeing capital for investment 

    Capital will be freed up for banks to invest in the UK. 

    International banks and investors will benefit from greater certainty as the UK backs Bank of England reforms to raise the MREL threshold – the minimum amount of money and certain types of debt that a bank must have – to £25–40 billion, freeing up billions for lending and investment.  

    New Basel 3.1 banking rules will be introduced from January 2027 in a way that supports UK competitiveness, with UK-focused lenders given the clarity they need to plan and invest, while the requirements are delayed for the largest firms’ investment banking activities to ensure the UK is aligned with how other jurisdictions implement the rules. 

    The ring-fencing regime – which separates banks’ retail and investment banking activities – will be reformed. The Economic Secretary will lead a review looking at how changes can strike the right balance between growth and stability, including protecting consumer deposits. 

    This comes alongside a major review by the Financial Policy Committee of bank capital requirements. The review will inform work by the Government and Bank of England to ensure UK banks can compete internationally and provide vital investment in the economy whilst maintaining the international regulatory standards which are crucial to securing financial stability.

    Promoting innovation and making the UK the Fintech capital of the world 

    Bespoke support will be provided to firms as they start, scale and list, and a pipeline of skills will support financial services firms to seize tomorrow’s opportunities for growth.  

    Financial business will receive intensive support through the start-up phase, helping them create a proven concept and attract growth funding. 

    A single regulator point of contact will also help these businesses through the scale-up phase, providing technical support to help understand requirements and speeding up regulator responsiveness. 

    Businesses will also benefit from better access to finance, with the Government recently uplifting the British Business Bank’s financial capacity to £25.6 billion. 

    The sector will also be supported by a better pipeline of skills, with a new Global Talent Taskforce helping attract top international talent to the UK, funding for 50 PhD students through the £187 million TechFirst programme to align their research with the needs of key players in the sector and a new financial services skills compact led by the Financial Services Skills Commission to ensure skills needs are met.

    More information

    • The Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy sector plan can be found on the Treasury’s website. 

    • Major financial services firms have agreed to support the campaign on retail investment: Barclays, NatWest, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, AJ Bell, Hargreaves Lansdown, Vanguard, Freetrade, Octopus Money, Robinhood UK, Trading 212, St James’s Place, Interactive Investor, Schroders and the London Stock Exchange. The Investment Association will provide the secretariat to the campaign. The Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and HM Treasury will support the campaign in an advisory capacity. 

    • Figures for how much a saver could benefit from investing in stocks and shares are illustrative. They are not a guarantee of future returns. 

    • The UK will aim to double the real growth rate in net exports of financial services between 2025 and 2035 compared to the last decade (2014-2024). This would mean financial services net exports going from a compound annual growth rate of 1.37% to 2.7%, a cumulative increase in annual financial services net exports of 30% between 2025 and 2035.

    Mike Reigner, Chief Executive Officer, Santander UK said:

    We welcome the announcement of the Leeds Reforms today, which set out a positive vision for UK financial services. The changes outlined within the package are important steps to modernising the UK’s regulatory architecture, and will enable banks like ours to support our customers better and drive growth within the wider economy.

    Sir Charles Roxburgh KCB, Chair, Lloyd’s said:

    Today’s announcements by the Chancellor — focused on streamlining regulation, reducing burdens on firms, and enabling innovation and growth — are a real boost for the London insurance market. The Government’s clear support for our sector, and its recognition of specialty insurance and reinsurance as a Frontier Industry in its Modern Industrial Strategy, strengthen my confidence in Lloyd’s continued success at the heart of the market.

    Hannah Gurga, Director General, ABI said:

    The Leeds Reforms set a constructive and positive path to accelerating investment and growth in the UK economy. Closer alignment between the FOS and FCA, alongside a streamlined Senior Managers and Certification Regime, are critical steps towards delivering the clarity and regulatory environment our industry needs to thrive. It’s encouraging to see the vision set out in the Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness plan, and we look forward to working with the government, regulators and wider industry to help cement the UK’s status as the world’s leading financial centre.

    António Simões, Group CEO, L&G said:

    Driving long-term economic growth and prosperity requires action today and this package is another step in the right direction. Connecting investment capital to the most compelling opportunities, streamlining regulation whilst maintaining standards and protection, and support for consumers to save in ways that will better benefit them in the future is the kind of intervention we need. Now we must keep up the pace and ambition to turn these plans into tangible action that makes a difference on the ground and in people’s pockets.

    Chris Cummings, Chief Executive, the Investment Association said:

    The Leeds Reforms bring together an ambitious programme for financial services reform, which aims to modernise capital markets, cut regulatory red tape and broaden the benefits of investing to more people across the UK – in turn delivering investment-led growth and improved financial resilience for UK households. We called on the government to undertake bold reforms to strengthen the UK’s retail investment culture and they have done so. Better communication of the returns investing brings is key if we’re to empower more people to invest, and we’re proud to take part in the industry-led campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of investing and the review of risk warnings. We’re also extremely pleased that Long-Term Asset Funds will now be incorporated into the Stocks and Shares ISA – a reform we have long called for to broaden access to private markets.

    Drazen Jaksic, Chief Executive Officer, Zurich UK said:

    We welcome the Chancellor’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient UK economy. The focus on sustainable growth, investment in innovation, and fostering long-term confidence is closely aligned with Zurich’s own priorities. As one of the UK’s leading insurers, we stand ready to work together with policymakers, customers, and partners to help deliver on these goals. We look forward to further engagement with the government to ensure the insurance sector remains robust, innovative, and able to meet the evolving needs of people and businesses across the UK.

    David Postings, Chief Executive, UK Finance said:

    Financial services are vital to the UK economy and I strongly welcome the Chancellor’s support for our sector as one of the UK’s global strengths.

    We submitted a range of ideas to government to help support growth and the UK’s position as a global financial centre. Across many of these key areas the Chancellor has listened and delivered significant positive change.

    Reforming the Financial Ombudsman Service, streamlining regulation in areas such as the Senior Managers and Certification Regime and the Consumer Duty, and supporting work by regulators to unlock capital for lending, will all help to drive investment and create a more pro-growth operating environment. 

    Having a regulatory system that allows for appropriate risk-taking is vital to ensuring the sector can better support UK businesses, consumers and the government’s growth mission.

    Charlie Nunn, CEO, Lloyds Banking Group said:

    We welcome the ambition shown in the Leeds Reforms to unlock investment, boost financial resilience, and support long-term economic growth. As a sector, we have a vital role to play in helping customers make the most of their money and in facilitating investment and innovation that benefits communities and businesses across the UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Shandong Province Ready to Deepen Cooperation with Central Asia in Industrial and Supply Chains

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) — A special session on Central Asia was held on Monday at the Conference on International Cooperation in Industrial and Supply Chains of East China’s Shandong Province in Jinan, the provincial capital, local daily Dazhong Ribao reported.

    The event was organized by the Shandong Provincial Bureau of Commerce with the support of the Shandong Alliance for Overseas Investment and Cooperation. More than 160 people from 16 cities in the province attended.

    The special session aims to create a platform for exchanges and interactions between enterprises, and thereby further deepen cooperation between Shandong Province and Central Asia in industrial and supply chains through formats such as policy clarification, experience sharing, project presentation and B2B sessions.

    As an economically developed province in China, Shandong has a complete production base and a developed supply chain system. It demonstrates high complementarity and significant potential for cooperation with Central Asian countries in energy, agriculture, manufacturing, etc.

    According to statistics, in the first half of 2025, Shandong Province’s actual investment in the five Central Asian countries reached 19.91 million US dollars, an increase of 62.1 percent year on year. This figure for the whole of 2024 was 20.836 million US dollars, an increase of 62.7 percent.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Upcoming expo in Beijing to foster global supply chain stability, resilience

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

    This photo taken on July 14, 2025 shows the booth of Apple at the digital technology section of the upcoming third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, capital of China. The third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), scheduled on July 16-20 in Beijing, is expected to focus on supply chains of advanced manufacturing, clean energy, smart vehicles, digital technology, healthy life and green agriculture. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China will open the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing on Wednesday, rallying multinational giants including Nvidia, Apple, and Airbus to showcase industrial resilience and cross-border collaboration.

    With 651 enterprises and institutions from 75 countries, regions and international organizations participating –including a notable 15 percent year-on-year increase in U.S. exhibitors — the event signals robust international commitment to stabilizing supply chains.

    Global giants are actively engaging. U.S. tech giant Nvidia is expected to make its debut at the expo, presenting cutting-edge robots featuring Nvidia chips. Airbus will also make its inaugural appearance, bringing its global supply chain collaborators to present the comprehensive ecosystem of the large aircraft industry.

    Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will attend the opening ceremony of the expo on Wednesday and participate in related activities, according to the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), the event’s organizer.

    In a meeting on Tuesday with Ren Hongbin, chairman of CCPIT, Huang said that the Chinese market is large and dynamic, and the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in China is advancing rapidly.

    “Multinational companies are realizing that maintaining their position in global supply chains necessitates a strong presence in China,” said Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University of China.

    Unlike traditional trade fairs focusing on goods or services, CISCE pioneers a unique “chain-centric” model that visualizes end-to-end industrial collaboration. In each exhibition hall, upstream, midstream and downstream companies cluster in adjacent booths, visually demonstrating their interdependence and synergy.

    Many companies across the supply chain will set up collaborative displays. For example, Apple is teaming up with Chinese suppliers for the third consecutive year to showcase cutting-edge technologies in smart manufacturing and green production.

    “Multinational corporations serve as anchor companies in global industries, thriving together with upstream and downstream partners worldwide. While advancing their own growth, these corporations strengthen global industrial and supply chain resilience,” Ren said.

    The third CISCE features nearly 100 high-level events, surpassing previous editions in scale and participation, according to Xu Liang, deputy secretary-general of the China Chamber of International Commerce.

    A key innovation for this edition is the “Debut Zone,” dedicated to the global premieres of new products, technologies, and ecosystems, showcasing breakthrough innovations that drive industrial collaboration, Xu noted.

    As the host, China will bring together a diverse group of leading state-owned and private enterprises showcasing the country’s green and digital transition. Among them, Zhejiang-based AI industry chain companies, such as Unitree Robotics, BrainCo, and Hikvision, will participate.

    “Through tangible examples of global supply chains at the expo, China demonstrates its firm resolve to advance globalization towards a more open, inclusive, balanced, and win-win future. It vividly embodies the concept of building a community with a shared future, where nations are interdependent,” Wang said.

    As the world’s first national-level exhibition focusing on supply chains, the expo is an internationally shared public product. First held in 2023, the expo has contributed to building more secure, stable, open and inclusive global industrial and supply chains, according to the CCPIT.

    The previous editions have seen fruitful outcomes, with the 2024 session catalyzing more than 200 cooperation deals worth 152 billion yuan (about 21.26 billion U.S. dollars), a 1.3 percent increase from its inaugural run in 2023.

    The expo will run from Wednesday to Sunday in Beijing, with public days commencing on Saturday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: July 2025 issue of “Hong Kong Monthly Digest of Statistics” now available

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    July 2025 issue of “Hong Kong Monthly Digest of Statistics” now available 
         Apart from providing up-to-date statistics, this issue also contains two feature articles entitled “Foreign Affiliates Statistics of Hong Kong” and “The Asset Management Industry in Hong Kong”.
     
    “Foreign Affiliates Statistics of Hong Kong”
     
         With globalisation of the world economy, it is popular for multinational enterprises to provide services to customers in another economy through setting up affiliated companies abroad.
     
         In view of the importance of services supplied via this mode, the C&SD has developed a statistical framework for compiling relevant statistics, known as “foreign affiliates statistics (FATS)”. This feature article briefly describes the statistical system for compiling inward FATS, and presents principal inward FATS of Hong Kong for 2023. It is an update of similar articles on the same subject published in preceding years.
     
         For enquiries about this feature article, please contact the Trade in Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7410; email: tis@censtatd.gov.hk 
    “The Asset Management Industry in Hong Kong”
     
         Hong Kong is one of the most vibrant international financial centres in the world and has strength in managing investments in the Asia Pacific region. The asset management industry has a stable development in Hong Kong in recent years. This feature article presents the operating characteristics and economic contribution of this industry between 2019 and 2023. It also briefly highlights the recent quarterly business performance of this industry.
     
         For enquiries about this feature article, please contact the Business Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7266; email:     business-services@censtatd.gov.hk 
         Published in bilingual form, the HKMDS is a compact volume of official statistics containing about 130 tables. It collects up-to-date statistical series on various aspects of the social and economic situation of Hong Kong. Topics include population; labour; external trade; National Income and Balance of Payments; prices; business performance; energy; housing and property; government accounts, finance and insurance; and transport, communications and tourism. For selected key statistical items, over 20 charts depicting the annual trend in the past decade and quarterly or monthly trend in the recent two years are also available. Users can download the Digest at the website of the C&SD (    www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1010002&scode=460 
         Enquiries about the contents of the Digest can be directed to the Statistical Information Dissemination Section (1) of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 4738; email:     gen-enquiry@censtatd.gov.hkIssued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: DataGlobal Hub Unveils GDAI 2025 Tracks: The World’s Largest Virtual Data & AI Conference Is Here

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHOENIX, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a world being redefined by intelligent systems, automation, and generative algorithms, DataGlobal Hub invites you to the Global Data & AI Virtual Tech Conference (GDAI) 2025, the world’s largest gathering of top AI speakers, industry leaders, founders, and data professionals from around the globe. As a trusted voice in the data, AI, and tech industry, DataGlobal Hub is poised to host one of the most consequential conversations of the decade.

    Themed “AI, Data, and the Future of Innovation”, the conference will explore the transformative power of emerging technologies. The conference is set to unlock AI’s power for business and innovation, GDAI 2025 is intelligently structured into three immersive tracks designed to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities of our data-driven era:

    Track 1: AI & Data Innovation

    Breakthroughs are happening daily. In this track, speakers will explore the latest advancements in large language models, AI engineering, and generative systems from real-world deployments to experimental frontiers. Learn how AI is powering new tools, reshaping creative workflows, and unlocking unprecedented potential in product development and enterprise efficiency. Uncovering transformative innovations. Take a front-row seat in shaping the future of intelligent systems by being part of GDAI 2025.

    Track 2: Enterprise Data Strategy & Leadership

    As data becomes the new currency of enterprise competitiveness, speakers would address the urgent need for robust governance, ethical frameworks, ROI modeling, monetization strategies, and how it can contribute positively to making decisions, offering business leaders actionable insights into how data can empower smarter decisions, improve efficiency, and drive measurable outcomes. Executive attendees will gain the insights to lead with confidence in a shifting regulatory and market landscape.

    This track will delve into strategic blueprints that align data stewardship with real business outcomes.

    Track 3: The Future of Work & AI in Society

    From workplace automation to creative reinvention, AI is reshaping how we live and work. This track convenes global thought leaders to discuss AI regulation, workforce transformation, and the socioeconomic shifts shaping tomorrow’s labor and innovation markets. Equipping attendees with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive in this evolving digital and societal landscape. Speakers would also engage in discussion about equity, ethics, and opportunity in the age of intelligent machines.

    Event Highlights

    • Global keynote sessions from top voices in AI, policy, and business
    • Breakout panels and intimate fireside chats
    • Cutting-edge live demos from frontier tech startups
    • Workshops & masterclasses with hands-on skill-building
    • Virtual networking with top-tier professionals and investors

    Be More Than Just a Spectator

    GDAI 2025 is your gateway to the future of intelligent technology. With each track offering a deep dive into the forces shaping tomorrow’s enterprise, society, and innovation landscape, this is where ideas ignite, leaders converge, and the future begins.

    Secure your spot today. Visit https://dataglobalhub.org/events/gdai/register

    Date: August 22nd -24th, 2025

    DataGlobal Hub’s Interactive AI Workshop at Kiln Gilbert

    On Thursday, July 10th, 2025 DataGlobal Hub hosted a high-impact AI workshop at Kiln Gilbert in Arizona, drawing entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals eager to explore real-world AI applications for business growth. The event featured keynote insights from Dr. Usha Jagannathan “From Risk to Reward: A Responsible Playbook for Secure Business Growth“, as well as sessions by Cliff Pierre “Creating Faceless Content using Al and YouTube Mone“, Justin Lewis, COO & Co-founder of DataGlobal Hub, “Al in Entertainment & Media: Adapt or Get Left Behind”, and Mojeed Abisiga, The CEO & Co-founder of DataGlobal Hub “The $30OK Question: How Prompt Engineering is Creating the New Business Elite”.

    Attendees enjoyed hands-on learning, vibrant networking, and fresh perspectives in a collaborative setting underscoring DataGlobal Hub’s commitment to making AI accessible, practical, and transformative for all.

    About DataGlobal Hub

    DataGlobal Hub is a global media organization dedicated to advancing data literacy and AI awareness through compelling content, thought leadership, and world-class events. Our mission is to empower individuals and organizations to thrive in an AI-driven world by connecting them with the right tools, stories, and communities.

    Call to Action

    We invite speakers, organizations, students, enthusiasts, and professional to be part of this global conversation.

    Explore conference sessions: https://dataglobalhub.org/events/gdai/sessions

    Registration: Secure your spot now: https://dataglobalhub.org/events/gdai/register

    Learn More About DataGlobal Hub:

    Website: https://dataglobalhub.org

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dataglobalhub?igsh=YzljYTk1ODg3Zg==

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dataglobal-hub/

    X (Twitter): https://x.com/DataGlobalHub

    Media Contact

    Company Name: DataGlobal Hub

    Website: https://www.dataglobalhub.org/

    Contact Person: Mojeed Abisiga, CEO

    Email: editor1@dataglobalhub.org

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f6b28ae8-0870-4ed1-bc88-c87c979adc94

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1b42a31c-26e2-461a-99dc-6de2ee455ba4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DataGlobal Hub Unveils GDAI 2025 Tracks: The World’s Largest Virtual Data & AI Conference Is Here

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHOENIX, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a world being redefined by intelligent systems, automation, and generative algorithms, DataGlobal Hub invites you to the Global Data & AI Virtual Tech Conference (GDAI) 2025, the world’s largest gathering of top AI speakers, industry leaders, founders, and data professionals from around the globe. As a trusted voice in the data, AI, and tech industry, DataGlobal Hub is poised to host one of the most consequential conversations of the decade.

    Themed “AI, Data, and the Future of Innovation”, the conference will explore the transformative power of emerging technologies. The conference is set to unlock AI’s power for business and innovation, GDAI 2025 is intelligently structured into three immersive tracks designed to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities of our data-driven era:

    Track 1: AI & Data Innovation

    Breakthroughs are happening daily. In this track, speakers will explore the latest advancements in large language models, AI engineering, and generative systems from real-world deployments to experimental frontiers. Learn how AI is powering new tools, reshaping creative workflows, and unlocking unprecedented potential in product development and enterprise efficiency. Uncovering transformative innovations. Take a front-row seat in shaping the future of intelligent systems by being part of GDAI 2025.

    Track 2: Enterprise Data Strategy & Leadership

    As data becomes the new currency of enterprise competitiveness, speakers would address the urgent need for robust governance, ethical frameworks, ROI modeling, monetization strategies, and how it can contribute positively to making decisions, offering business leaders actionable insights into how data can empower smarter decisions, improve efficiency, and drive measurable outcomes. Executive attendees will gain the insights to lead with confidence in a shifting regulatory and market landscape.

    This track will delve into strategic blueprints that align data stewardship with real business outcomes.

    Track 3: The Future of Work & AI in Society

    From workplace automation to creative reinvention, AI is reshaping how we live and work. This track convenes global thought leaders to discuss AI regulation, workforce transformation, and the socioeconomic shifts shaping tomorrow’s labor and innovation markets. Equipping attendees with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive in this evolving digital and societal landscape. Speakers would also engage in discussion about equity, ethics, and opportunity in the age of intelligent machines.

    Event Highlights

    • Global keynote sessions from top voices in AI, policy, and business
    • Breakout panels and intimate fireside chats
    • Cutting-edge live demos from frontier tech startups
    • Workshops & masterclasses with hands-on skill-building
    • Virtual networking with top-tier professionals and investors

    Be More Than Just a Spectator

    GDAI 2025 is your gateway to the future of intelligent technology. With each track offering a deep dive into the forces shaping tomorrow’s enterprise, society, and innovation landscape, this is where ideas ignite, leaders converge, and the future begins.

    Secure your spot today. Visit https://dataglobalhub.org/events/gdai/register

    Date: August 22nd -24th, 2025

    DataGlobal Hub’s Interactive AI Workshop at Kiln Gilbert

    On Thursday, July 10th, 2025 DataGlobal Hub hosted a high-impact AI workshop at Kiln Gilbert in Arizona, drawing entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals eager to explore real-world AI applications for business growth. The event featured keynote insights from Dr. Usha Jagannathan “From Risk to Reward: A Responsible Playbook for Secure Business Growth“, as well as sessions by Cliff Pierre “Creating Faceless Content using Al and YouTube Mone“, Justin Lewis, COO & Co-founder of DataGlobal Hub, “Al in Entertainment & Media: Adapt or Get Left Behind”, and Mojeed Abisiga, The CEO & Co-founder of DataGlobal Hub “The $30OK Question: How Prompt Engineering is Creating the New Business Elite”.

    Attendees enjoyed hands-on learning, vibrant networking, and fresh perspectives in a collaborative setting underscoring DataGlobal Hub’s commitment to making AI accessible, practical, and transformative for all.

    About DataGlobal Hub

    DataGlobal Hub is a global media organization dedicated to advancing data literacy and AI awareness through compelling content, thought leadership, and world-class events. Our mission is to empower individuals and organizations to thrive in an AI-driven world by connecting them with the right tools, stories, and communities.

    Call to Action

    We invite speakers, organizations, students, enthusiasts, and professional to be part of this global conversation.

    Explore conference sessions: https://dataglobalhub.org/events/gdai/sessions

    Registration: Secure your spot now: https://dataglobalhub.org/events/gdai/register

    Learn More About DataGlobal Hub:

    Website: https://dataglobalhub.org

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dataglobalhub?igsh=YzljYTk1ODg3Zg==

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dataglobal-hub/

    X (Twitter): https://x.com/DataGlobalHub

    Media Contact

    Company Name: DataGlobal Hub

    Website: https://www.dataglobalhub.org/

    Contact Person: Mojeed Abisiga, CEO

    Email: editor1@dataglobalhub.org

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f6b28ae8-0870-4ed1-bc88-c87c979adc94

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1b42a31c-26e2-461a-99dc-6de2ee455ba4

    The MIL Network –

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU took part in the discussion of the future of business education

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Official website of the State –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The State University of Management took part in a joint open meeting of the Presidium of the National Accreditation Council for Business and Management Education (NASDOBR) and the Council for Professional Qualifications in Management and Law.

    The SUM was represented at the event by Rector Vladimir Stroyev, Vice-Rector Dmitry Bryukhanov and Academic Director of the SUM Higher School of Business and Technology, Vice-President of the Russian Association of Business Education Vladimir Godin.

    The meeting was also attended by First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma of the Russian Federation Alexander Zhukov; Chairman of the Presidium of NASDOBR, Vice-Rector of RANEPA Sergey Myasoedov; Vice-President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Murychev; Deputy Chairman, Head of the Executive Committee of Delovaya Rossiya Nonna Kagramanyan, Chairman of the Council of the Moscow City Branch of OPORA RUSSIA Dmitry Nesvetov, and General Director of the National Agency for Qualifications Development Alexey Vovchenko.

    The participants considered issues of NASDOBR activities in accreditation of MBA business education programs and preparation for pilot accreditation of the DBA program “Doctor of Business Administration”, development of professional and public accreditation of higher education programs, and intensification of work on development of business education in the regions.

    The results of the work of the specialized sections of NASDOBR and RABO at the Caucasus Investment Forum and the International IT Forum with the participation of BRICS and SCO countries were summed up. The high demand for business education programs in the regions was noted, especially in terms of developing management competencies and increasing labor productivity.

    In addition, those gathered discussed the expansion of the powers of the Council for Professional Qualifications in Management and Law: the creation of educational programs, their professional and public accreditation, and the formation of a system for independent assessment of qualifications in this area.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Sensex, Nifty edge higher as inflation cools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s benchmark indices opened higher on Tuesday, staging a mild rebound after four straight sessions of losses, as easing inflation and positive global cues lifted investor sentiment.

    Consumer inflation dropped to a more than six-year low of 2.10 percent in June, providing a boost to hopes for future rate cuts and signaling macroeconomic resilience.

    The Nifty 50 rose 36.30 points, or 0.14 percent, to 25,129.70, while the BSE Sensex added 85.48 points, or 0.10 percent, to 82,338.94.

    The rebound offered some relief to investors following recent market volatility. Broader indices showed even stronger momentum, with the Nifty Midcap 100 climbing 0.57 percent and the Nifty Smallcap 100 gaining 0.82 percent. The Nifty 100 was up 0.29 percent.

    Global markets also provided tailwinds. US equities eked out modest gains overnight, while Asian stocks advanced after China’s second-quarter GDP growth came in at a better-than-expected 5.2 percent, signaling underlying economic strength.

    Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert, said, “Indian markets recovered from session lows on Monday, signaling that the four-day fall, the first since March, may be bottoming out. With CPI at multiyear lows, there’s now more room for rate cuts. The global outlook is resilient, and we expect Indian markets to show some strength here on.”

    Sectoral indices on the NSE mirrored the upbeat tone, with all major sectors opening in the green. Nifty Media led the gains, rising 1 percent. Nifty Auto advanced 0.68 percent, Nifty IT added 0.31 percent, and Nifty FMCG edged up 0.22 percent. Nifty Pharma and Nifty PSU Bank also saw gains of 0.22 and 0.28 percent, respectively. The Nifty Realty index climbed 0.48 percent.

    Despite ongoing uncertainty around potential US tariffs under Donald Trump’s policy rhetoric, markets appeared to take the noise in stride. Focus has now shifted to upcoming earnings from major US banks and key macroeconomic data.

    The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to show a mild uptick in inflation, while the Producer Price Index (PPI), due Wednesday, may offer insight into the impact of supply chain disruptions and tariffs.

    Meanwhile, safe-haven assets like gold and silver posted mild declines after recent gains, suggesting improved risk appetite among global investors.

    Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, offered a technical perspective: “The Nifty held support at 25,000 on Monday, forming a large lower shadow candle, which suggests that the level is technically significant. However, unless the index closes above 25,340, bulls should remain cautious, as a drop into the 24,800–24,900 zone remains likely.”

    Across Asia, indices were largely trading in the green. Taiwan’s Weighted Index rose 0.65 percent, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was up 0.20 percent, and Singapore’s Straits Times edged 0.12 percent higher. South Korea’s KOSPI was the only major laggard at the time of reporting.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Sensex, Nifty edge higher as inflation cools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s benchmark indices opened higher on Tuesday, staging a mild rebound after four straight sessions of losses, as easing inflation and positive global cues lifted investor sentiment.

    Consumer inflation dropped to a more than six-year low of 2.10 percent in June, providing a boost to hopes for future rate cuts and signaling macroeconomic resilience.

    The Nifty 50 rose 36.30 points, or 0.14 percent, to 25,129.70, while the BSE Sensex added 85.48 points, or 0.10 percent, to 82,338.94.

    The rebound offered some relief to investors following recent market volatility. Broader indices showed even stronger momentum, with the Nifty Midcap 100 climbing 0.57 percent and the Nifty Smallcap 100 gaining 0.82 percent. The Nifty 100 was up 0.29 percent.

    Global markets also provided tailwinds. US equities eked out modest gains overnight, while Asian stocks advanced after China’s second-quarter GDP growth came in at a better-than-expected 5.2 percent, signaling underlying economic strength.

    Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert, said, “Indian markets recovered from session lows on Monday, signaling that the four-day fall, the first since March, may be bottoming out. With CPI at multiyear lows, there’s now more room for rate cuts. The global outlook is resilient, and we expect Indian markets to show some strength here on.”

    Sectoral indices on the NSE mirrored the upbeat tone, with all major sectors opening in the green. Nifty Media led the gains, rising 1 percent. Nifty Auto advanced 0.68 percent, Nifty IT added 0.31 percent, and Nifty FMCG edged up 0.22 percent. Nifty Pharma and Nifty PSU Bank also saw gains of 0.22 and 0.28 percent, respectively. The Nifty Realty index climbed 0.48 percent.

    Despite ongoing uncertainty around potential US tariffs under Donald Trump’s policy rhetoric, markets appeared to take the noise in stride. Focus has now shifted to upcoming earnings from major US banks and key macroeconomic data.

    The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to show a mild uptick in inflation, while the Producer Price Index (PPI), due Wednesday, may offer insight into the impact of supply chain disruptions and tariffs.

    Meanwhile, safe-haven assets like gold and silver posted mild declines after recent gains, suggesting improved risk appetite among global investors.

    Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, offered a technical perspective: “The Nifty held support at 25,000 on Monday, forming a large lower shadow candle, which suggests that the level is technically significant. However, unless the index closes above 25,340, bulls should remain cautious, as a drop into the 24,800–24,900 zone remains likely.”

    Across Asia, indices were largely trading in the green. Taiwan’s Weighted Index rose 0.65 percent, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was up 0.20 percent, and Singapore’s Straits Times edged 0.12 percent higher. South Korea’s KOSPI was the only major laggard at the time of reporting.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Sensex, Nifty edge higher as inflation cools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s benchmark indices opened higher on Tuesday, staging a mild rebound after four straight sessions of losses, as easing inflation and positive global cues lifted investor sentiment.

    Consumer inflation dropped to a more than six-year low of 2.10 percent in June, providing a boost to hopes for future rate cuts and signaling macroeconomic resilience.

    The Nifty 50 rose 36.30 points, or 0.14 percent, to 25,129.70, while the BSE Sensex added 85.48 points, or 0.10 percent, to 82,338.94.

    The rebound offered some relief to investors following recent market volatility. Broader indices showed even stronger momentum, with the Nifty Midcap 100 climbing 0.57 percent and the Nifty Smallcap 100 gaining 0.82 percent. The Nifty 100 was up 0.29 percent.

    Global markets also provided tailwinds. US equities eked out modest gains overnight, while Asian stocks advanced after China’s second-quarter GDP growth came in at a better-than-expected 5.2 percent, signaling underlying economic strength.

    Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert, said, “Indian markets recovered from session lows on Monday, signaling that the four-day fall, the first since March, may be bottoming out. With CPI at multiyear lows, there’s now more room for rate cuts. The global outlook is resilient, and we expect Indian markets to show some strength here on.”

    Sectoral indices on the NSE mirrored the upbeat tone, with all major sectors opening in the green. Nifty Media led the gains, rising 1 percent. Nifty Auto advanced 0.68 percent, Nifty IT added 0.31 percent, and Nifty FMCG edged up 0.22 percent. Nifty Pharma and Nifty PSU Bank also saw gains of 0.22 and 0.28 percent, respectively. The Nifty Realty index climbed 0.48 percent.

    Despite ongoing uncertainty around potential US tariffs under Donald Trump’s policy rhetoric, markets appeared to take the noise in stride. Focus has now shifted to upcoming earnings from major US banks and key macroeconomic data.

    The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to show a mild uptick in inflation, while the Producer Price Index (PPI), due Wednesday, may offer insight into the impact of supply chain disruptions and tariffs.

    Meanwhile, safe-haven assets like gold and silver posted mild declines after recent gains, suggesting improved risk appetite among global investors.

    Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, offered a technical perspective: “The Nifty held support at 25,000 on Monday, forming a large lower shadow candle, which suggests that the level is technically significant. However, unless the index closes above 25,340, bulls should remain cautious, as a drop into the 24,800–24,900 zone remains likely.”

    Across Asia, indices were largely trading in the green. Taiwan’s Weighted Index rose 0.65 percent, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was up 0.20 percent, and Singapore’s Straits Times edged 0.12 percent higher. South Korea’s KOSPI was the only major laggard at the time of reporting.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK eVisas for Pakistani students and workers

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    New UK eVisas for Pakistani students and workers

    Most main applicants travelling to the UK on study or work-related visas will no longer need a physical sticker visa in passports from today (15 July).

    The UK Government is replacing physical immigration documents for most student and worker visas with a digital proof of immigration status, an eVisa. An eVisa is an online record of a person’s immigration permission in the UK, and any conditions which apply, which can be viewed by creating and accessing an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

    eVisas are part of an enhanced border and immigration system that will not only make the visa process easier, but is more secure, digital and streamlined. eVisas are tried and tested, with millions of people already using them on select immigration routes.

    British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott CMG OBE, said:

    These changes to the UK visa system will make it much simpler for students and workers to prove their identity and visa status. It also means applicants can hold onto their passports, saving them time.

    Updating from a physical document to an eVisa does not affect anyone’s immigration status or the conditions of their permission to enter or stay in the UK.

    E-visas are being rolled out for the main applicants for:

    • Students, including short term study for 11 months   

    • Global Business Mobility routes (specifically, Senior or Specialist Worker, Graduate Trainee, UK Expansion Worker, Service Supplier, Secondment Worker)   

    • Global Talent    

    • International Sportsperson    

    • Skilled Worker (including Health and Care)   

    • Temporary Work routes (specifically, Charity Worker, Creative Worker, Government Authorised Exchange, International Agreement, and Religious work routes)    

    • Youth Mobility Scheme   

    Holders can link their travel document (such as passport) to their UKVI account to facilitate straightforward international travel. People who have created a UKVI account will be able to use the view and prove service to prove their status securely with third parties, such as employers or landlords (in England).

    Applicants applying as a dependant, or as a main applicant for visas other than study or work, e.g. general visitor visas, will still need a physical sticker visa. Anyone with existing, in date, physical visa stickers do not need to take any action.

    This will eventually be rolled out to all visa routes meaning a more secure and streamlined process for all UK visa customers.

    For updates on the British High Commission, please follow our social media channels:

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taipower Launches RE30 Product on June 1: Low-Carbon Electricity to Help Taiwan Businesses Compete Globally

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    In response to the global net-zero trend and to help Taiwan’s export-oriented companies meet their renewable energy (RE) targets and secure a place in international supply chains, Taipower is launching its first-ever RE30 electricity product. Designed to meet supplement companies’ green energy needs, RE30 bridges the gap to ensure that 30% of a user’s electricity consumption comes from renewable sources, together with the green power they already purchased independently. Taipower announced that it will supply 500 GWh of green power from its self-built renewable energy sites, plus around 1,660 GWh of standard grid power. Sales will run from June 1 to December 31, with delivery starting on July 1. Interested customers can apply through their local Taipower office.

    Taipower stated that RE30 is available to high-voltage and above users who are already wheeling green power from private power providers. Each account can purchase between 1 GWh and 100 GWh per year (including 0.3-30 GWh of green power). The wheeling contract period is fixed at one year, and applications must be made in 0.1 GWh increments within the eligible range. Power delivery starts on the first day of the month following approval and continues for 12 months.
    Regarding pricing, Taipower explained that the green portion of RE30 is priced at NT$6.3 per kWh (excluding VAT and wheeling fees), referencing last year’s average market price for small-scale green power transactions. To encourage early participation and carbon reduction, an early-bird rate of NT$6.1 per kWh is available for green power delivered by the end of 2025, reverting to NT$6.3 from January 1, 2026. The standard grid power portion of RE30 will be billed at the regular electricity rate.

    Taipower emphasized that RE30 will play a timely role in boosting the green power market. Monthly usage will be calculated case by case: priority is given to green power wheeled from private providers, and any shortfall needed to reach 30% is topped up with RE30. For example, if a business signs up for 1 GWh (or 1,000,000 kWh) of RE30 for a year (including 0.3 GWh or 300,000 kWh of green power) to meet its monthly electricity demand, and consumes 100,000 kWh in a given month while sourcing 10,000 kWh of green power privately, Taipower will supply the remaining 20,000 kWh through RE30 to ensure the 30% renewable energy target is met.

    Taipower added that RE30 uses a “grid power combined with green power” model. The green portion comes from Taipower’s own renewable facilities, and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) are issued based on the actual green power supplied to help businesses reduce carbon emissions. Taipower plans to gradually expand its annual green power supply, aiming to reach 3,000 GWh by 2027, enough to help industries achieve RE30 targets for up to 10,000 GWh of total electricity consumption.

    Spokesperson: Vice President Chih-Meng Tsai
    Tel: (02)2366-6271/0958-749-333
    Email: u910707@taipower.com.tw

    Contact Person: Director of the Business Department Mei-Lien Huang
    Tel: (02)2366-6650/0922-696-383
    Email: u030573@taipower.com.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taipower Promotes Corporate Energy Conservation Energy-Saving Teams Visit Over 5,000 Companies in 18 Months, Projected to Save Nearly 150 GWh

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    In line with the government’s intensive energy conservation policy launched in 2024, Taipower has been working closely with businesses to help them cut electricity use. To date, Taipower has hosted nearly 50 seminars for major electricity users and promoted advanced energy-saving measures to thousands of companies across Taiwan. Taipower’s energy-saving teams have also gone directly into communities, carrying out on-site visits to over 5,000 companies nationwide. These efforts are expected to yield savings of nearly 150 GWh of electricity. Taipower expressed hope that more businesses will embrace energy conservation and carbon reduction, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to a sustainable environment.

    Taipower explained that to support Taiwanese companies in adopting energy-saving practices, it established three Energy Conservation Diagnostic Centers in northern, central, and southern Taiwan in 2019. These centers provide free energy-saving consultation services for large electricity users with contract capacities ranging from 100 to 800 kW. Since early 2024, Taipower’s energy-saving teams have visited over 5,000 companies across the country, helping them identify potential savings and providing tailored recommendations. If all suggested measures are fully implemented, nearly 150 GWh of electricity could be saved, equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of over 36,000 households, while cutting around 71,000 metric tons of carbon emissions.

    According to Taipower, companies can use its diagnostic services to receive customized energy-saving reports and then work with Energy Service Companies (ESCOs ) to replace old equipment and implement energy management solutions that reduce costs and boost efficiency. For example, after undergoing Taipower’s initial assessment, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital replaced its chilled water units, cooling towers, and indoor lighting, achieving annual savings of 2 GWh, a reduction rate of up to 70%. Likewise, Lung Hsing Refrigerating Works in Kaohsiung followed Taipower’s advice to replace outdated equipment, adopt an energy management system, and lower its contract capacity, resulting in annual electricity savings of 2.2 GWh.

    In addition to equipment like chilled water units and cooling towers, transformers are also a key focus for businesses aiming to save electricity. Taipower reminds businesses to check the service life of their self-owned transformers. If a transformer has been in service for over 30 years, upgrading to a new high-efficiency model can improve power use and reduce electricity bills. For example, after receiving energy-saving guidance from Taipower, the Taiwan Electric Research & Testing Center, an accredited Taiwanese testing institution, replaced old transformers with high-efficiency ones, saving an estimated 140,000 kWh of electricity and cutting annual electricity expenses by approximately NT$700,000.

    Alongside its work with businesses in energy conservation and carbon reduction, Taipower continues to lead by example internally through its own. Power plants across Taiwan are introducing automated modules to better manage electricity usage and are refining unit operating conditions to reduce heat rates. In its offices, Taipower is also fully aligning with the government’s intensive energy-saving initiative. Six facilities, including its headquarters, the Shulin Campus of the Taiwan Power Research Institute, the Linkou Training Center, and the Beinan, Hsinchu, and Taichung district offices, have been designated as demonstration sites for energy upgrades. For instance, the Beinan District Office has upgraded its central air conditioning system with ESCO support, which is expected to save nearly 1 GWh of electricity annually.

    Spokesperson: Vice President Chih-Meng Tsai
    Tel: (02 )2366-6271/0958-749-333
    Email: u910707@taipower.com.tw
    Contact Person: Director of the Business Department Mei-Lien Huang
    Tel: (02 )2366-6650/0922-696-383
    Email: u030573@taipower.com.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Washing and Drying Machine “ALPHA Set” wins “Best of the Best” at the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2025

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic Washing and Drying Machine “ALPHA Set” wins “Best of the Best” at the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2025

    Essen, Germany – The Panasonic Washing and Drying Machine “ALPHA Set” was awarded the “Best of the Best”—the top honor at the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2025. Twelve other Panasonic products also received Red Dot Awards. 

    The award-winning products are as follows:

    Red Dot Award: Best of the Best

    Red Dot Award

    Panasonic Corporation, Living Appliances and Solutions Company

    Panasonic Corporation, Heating & Ventilation A/C Company

    Panasonic Corporation, China & Northeast Asia Company

    Panasonic Corporation, Technics Brand Business Promotion Office

    Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co., Ltd.

    The Red Dot Award, founded in 1955, is a globally recognized design competition spanning over 60 years. In the Product Design Category, approximately forty experts rigorously evaluated all entries against nine criteria, including quality, ergonomics, and product life.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taipower Holds 2025 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting: Continues Strengthening Financial Operations, Calls for Budget Support

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Taipower held its 2025 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting today (June 27), briefing shareholders on its mission to ensure stable power supply for Taiwan while helping the government mitigate the impact of global developments on households and industries in recent years. Taipower noted that despite financial challenges, it sought a total of NT$300 billion in government budget subsidies over the past year, but none were approved by the legislature. To maintain the sustainable operation of Taiwan’s electricity supply, secure the nation’s power needs, and support economic development, Taipower will continue to seek government funding while doing its utmost to improve its own financial operations. Compared with the same period last year, losses from January to May this year have already narrowed by nearly NT$32 billion, a decline of over 50%.

    The 2025 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting was chaired by Taipower Chairman Wen-Sheng Tseng, with President Yao-Ting Wang delivering the 2024 Business Report. During the meeting, shareholders were also briefed on last year’s corporate bond issuance, financial statements, and the approval of its deficit compensation proposal. Additionally, the biennial board member election was conducted during the meeting.

    Taipower explained that the Russia-Ukraine war led to surging fuel prices globally. While other countries substantially raised electricity rates, further fueling inflation, Taipower instead chose to absorb nearly NT$600 billion in electricity costs for households and industries over the past three years to protect livelihoods and cushion inflationary pressures, resulting in significant financial losses. In 2023, Taipower recorded total revenue of NT$871.4 billion and expenditures of NT$912.5 billion, with a pre-tax net loss of NT$41.1 billion. After factoring in tax credits, the net loss remained NT$41.1 billion. As of the end of last year, cumulative losses stood at NT$422.9 billion.

    Taipower stressed that a stable financial footing is crucial to protecting the public’s right to reliable power and supporting social and industrial development. In April this year, the Electricity Price Review Committee decided, in light of global trade tariffs and political-economic conditions, to freeze electricity prices, meaning Taipower continues to bear external cost pressures on behalf of households and businesses. To maintain financial soundness, Taipower has, over the past year, repeatedly sought a total of NT$300 billion in government funding to cover the costs it has absorbed to stabilize power prices, essentially subsidizing electricity for the entire nation, but these proposals have not been approved by the legislature. Taipower hopes for greater understanding and support from all sectors of society.

    In addition to pursuing government subsidies, Taipower is also working to improve its own finances. For electricity price subsidies for schools and social welfare organizations, Taipower has, in accordance with the Electricity Act and the March 2024 resolution of the Electricity Price Review Committee, maintained preferential electricity rates but will reduce its direct subsidies starting this year. Relevant funding will now revert to the respective competent authorities for budgeting, which is expected to increase Taipower’s annual revenue by nearly NT$4 billion. As for subsidized electricity for offshore islands, Taipower has absorbed losses exceeding NT$100 billion to date. Moving forward, Taipower will handle related matters through the national budgeting process under the Offshore Islands Development Act and will actively seek government budget allocations to cover them.

    Furthermore, Taipower has adopted four key strategies to boost revenue and reduce expenses to strengthen its financial foundation: On the power generation and procurement side, it has refined its fuel procurement strategies. On the electricity retailing side, it has expanded green power resale and low-carbon power sales. In transmission and distribution, it has reduced expenditures by adjusting line installation fees and optimizing ancillary services. Furthermore, Taipower is investing in asset revitalization to expand revenue sources, making every effort to reduce losses. From January to May this year, Taipower recorded a loss of NT$28.5 billion, nearly NT$32 billion less than the same period last year, marking a reduction of more than 50%.

    Spokesperson: Vice President Chih-Meng Tsai
    Tel: (02 )2366-6271/0958-749-333
    Email: u910707@taipower.com.tw
    Contact Person: Chief Secretary of Board Secretariat Shou-Fu Cheng
    Tel: (02 )2366-6210/0900-781-357
    Email: u026726@taipower.com.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taipower Wins Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards for Eighth Consecutive Year Recognized for Marine Ecological Conservation and Talent Development

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The prestigious Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA), recognized as a gold standard for corporate sustainability in Asia, held its award ceremony yesterday (June 27) in Bangkok, Thailand. This year, Taipower was honored with two major awards, the Green Leadership Award and the Investment in People Award, for its efforts in marine ecological conservation and talent cultivation. This marks the eighth consecutive year since 2018 that Taipower has earned international recognition. Taipower noted that while ensuring a stable power supply remains its core mission, it is equally committed to environmental sustainability and talent cultivation, fulfilling its corporate social responsibility and giving back to society through concrete action.

    Enterprise Asia has long championed Asian entrepreneurship and, since 2011, has hosted the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards, a highly competitive benchmark for sustainability benchmark in the region. To date, over 900 organizations from 19 countries have been recognized. Now in its 15th year, the 2025 award ceremony in Bangkok presented honors across eight major categories, including Green Leadership, Investment in People, Social Empowerment, and Circular Economy Leadership.

    Taipower stated that, to balance stable power supply with environmental sustainability, it published its Environmental White Paper in 2019, outlining six strategic pillars for sustainability and launching the Power Facility Ecological Integration Program. In marine conservation, Taipower has worked closely with local governments, academic experts, and environmental groups to continuously promote a wide range of eco-friendly initiatives, such as fish fry releases, beach cleanups, and ecological monitoring, while also actively promoting marine education and awareness. These sustained efforts have earned Taipower the Green Leadership Award for four consecutive years.

    Taipower explained that because power plants require a stable water source for cooling, many are located along coastlines, making marine ecosystem protection a priority. Since 2002, Taipower has organized annual fish fry release programs and partnered with research institutions to build a fish fry genetic database that contributes valuable data to Taiwan’s marine research. Moreover, Taipower has also hosted nationwide beach cleanups for 31 consecutive years, mobilizing nearly 6,000 participants each year to clean the ocean and adopting 13 kilometers of coastline for long-term maintenance. At the intake area of the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant, Taipower has installed a coral reef ecological monitoring station and a livestream platform to track seawater temperatures and coral reef in real time, while continuing to invest in coral reef restoration.

    In addition to its long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, Taipower has invested in training skilled professionals to uphold its mission of a stable power supply. The Company previously received the Investment in People Award in 2019 for integrating VR technology into high-altitude operations training, in 2022 for its structured athlete system, and in 2024 for its Dalin model training center and its certification system for power plant O&M (Operation & Maintenance ) talent. This year, Taipower once again stood out among more than 70 companies, earning the award for the fourth time thanks to its robust recruitment and training programs.

    On the talent recruitment front, Taipower not only attracts power industry professionals through its rigorous examination system but also recuits young talent through various channels such as internships and industry-academic partnerships. For training, Taipower operates four training centers across the country and uses a one-on-one mentorship system to rapidly and thoroughly develop employees’ technical skills. In recent years, it has further integrated digital technology into technical training, using virtual reality (VR ) simulations to replicate various power operation scenarios, greatly enhancing hands-on training outcomes for trainees.

    Spokesperson: Vice President Chih-Meng Tsai
    Tel: (02 )2366-6271/0958-749-333
    Email: u910707@taipower.com.tw
    Business Contact: Director of the Project Planning Department Chiu-Ying Kuo
    Tel: (02 )2366-6440/0978-105-282
    Email: u004770@taipower.com.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –